The mention of his friend disappearing explains Carlisle's agitation, and Lance thinks briefly of Emily; they'd only spoken a few times, but he'd liked her and she's the first person that he'd met here who has disappeared. It must be incredibly difficult to lose a friend, especially since in a situation like this it's likely the last time you would ever see them. It's almost as though they've died, instead of disappeared.

He pulls himself from his thoughts, nodding to show his understanding. "I'm sorry about your friend." He doesn't want to skip saying that part before he answers the implied question. "I think it is. I haven't met all that many people here yet, but of those I have I don't know of anyone else with his experience." Dr. Lecter should have medical training as well, since he's also a psychiatrist, but Lance doesn't know him that well and as far as he's aware Hannibal is still taking time off for a personal matter.

"Why were you in her notes for the Clinic, if you don't mind me asking?" He's aware it could be personal, so he gives the out if Carlisle wants to take it; interested as he is, he doesn't want to pry in a situation where there's no reason to do so just yet and risk upsetting Carlisle.