It's an expression he does not return. Is that using misery as a foothold to achieve happiness really a noble way to live? He seems to turn over the reasoning in his mind anyhow; understanding the logic behind decisions can be a valuable thing. In the end, he seems to move on without comment.

"These conjurings only last a few precious minutes." His gaze slides toward the girl he's brought to life through the power of these illusions. "I would hate to steal those remaining minutes from you. I shall leave you to your sister, perhaps you may remember her this way as you have with the former."