[It would have been easier almost if Richard didn't sound quite so defeated. Alfred was upset, yes, and he did want the teenager to understand that he'd gone about this in entirely the wrong way... but it was probably good that this conversation was being held over the phone where Alfred couldn't actually feel the emotions he's certain Richard is currently projecting.

When he speaks again, his tone is carefully controlled:] What exactly do you intend to do about it? Had it, perchance, occurred to you that if you had spoken with us and, perhaps, explained what exactly your plans were and why, Master Bruce or myself might have offered to help.

[What he still doesn't understand is the why behind this seemingly sudden plan to move. There's also some hurt on his part that Richard wouldn't have spoken to him about this. Not that he expected the boy to come to him with everything. They all had their secrets. But this? This stung more than he would care to admit.] As for the responsibility? I believe that's to be shared.