[He makes a slight 'hm' noise at that explanation, some of it registering in a way he'd not have considered the act. Lavishing attention, which D'Artagnan very much likes to do, never occurred to him as what might be brought through ropes and taking control. That aspect would change it for him, take away from the affection and care in his mind, and he realises then he can't see it as something... positive. Wash's talk of purpose isn't so convoluted that he doesn't understand the basic thread of it, nor why the man might find purpose in such work, but none of it draws D'Artagnan in particular. He lets the silence drift for a moment as he gathers his thoughts, looking over at the bundles of rope again, and when he meets Wash's eyes, his own hold an apologetic gaze.]

You're right, I need to talk to her. I was... looking for a purpose in this myself, something to make me want to do it. But I don't, I still don't.