"Okay." She picks the poultice--still hot, wet, and pungent, but starting to cool a little--up and holds it out to him. Now, she's all hesitance, soft-spoken as she explains. "You can wrap it around your foot or put it on your chest."

The foot seemed a little more out of the way, but if he's this skittish just about being touched, maybe it's better that he keeps his boots on. He won't have to worry feverishly about if he has to get up later.