From the looks of things, what Richards needed to be doing was not guarding his tongue and being 'better' in a general sense. Malachi did not look convinced, but he did not try to pick his words apart or challenge him.

"Don't be too hard on yourself," he said, and refrained from reaching out to touch Richards' shoulder like he wanted to. Something told him it wouldn't have been well-received.

"I am always happy to listen, father, if you ever need to get anything off of your chest. Frustration is understandable, but you should not let it fester."