The Chief lets York collect himself, and just nods when recognized. He doesn't miss getting this reaction from people, but it's familiar and he knows how to deal with it. Startle somebody, give them a second, then move on. It's nice when something breaks down into a repeatable procedure that way.

Not much else about talking to people really does.

He lets the owed money comment slide, he's used to catching asides that aren't really meant for him, and instead goes right for the time question. It's fractionally easier to tangle with.

"Can't tell you for sure, but I might have a guess."

Wash mentioned his old teammate with a messed up eye. The fact said teammate was dead means nothing in the face of the Time Trapper's particular brand of recruitment drive. It would certainly explain why he went after Wash in particular, and why he recognizes... if not the Chief personally, then at least what the Chief is.

"Are you York?"

He's not sure if being wrong would make this better or worse.