[Undoubtedly so. He doesn't understand the 1984 reference, even though he, in fact, lives in a magic kingdom that is run like the world of 1984, but he's quick enough to draw a conclusion based on context.]

I'm not asking to lead. That would be the entire point of this thing. Leadership is a heavy burden, and it asks everything of those who would wear its mantle.

[he's stopped on the street now, leaning against some dirty brick wall, looking haggard and thin. His breath is somewhat shallow.]

The first step in judgment is seeing how well a prospective candidate holds up under some light inquiry. My estimations have not been promising so far.