[Celestia's own reaction does Surprise no favors, and for a moment Surprise fears she's said the 'wrong' thing. That the answer she's given is displeasing and punishment really might be forthcoming.

She stammers a little as she replies.]

I'm sure! Yes you're majesty I'm very sure! He - the other pony, or once-pony - he said that he had been taking care of Star Swirl in his old age! He's been his nurse you know and now he - now he's down there!