Doc is most definitely making a face, the one with raised eyebrows and a teasing little smile as he turns and looks at Malcolm, suggestiveness all but evident in his expression even though he says absolutely nothing, gesturing with his hand to the plank. Why yes Malcolm. Do take lead on the knots.

He plucks his filed down butter knife out from where it's tucked behind his back. It's not as sharp as it needs to be to cut lengths of rope easily but a bit of sawing should still be able to cut through.