[Spoilers] Sir Harry Pearce

[Silktie]

Maybe the tears were because for the first time in many years someone is there with him and showing concern for him. It's easier to keep it together when you're alone, but when someone gives you sympathy it becomes harder to remain unemotional. I think it was perhaps just an attempt (poorly executed though) from the writers to show that Harry is beginning to let his guard down with Ruth, and that it does therefore not necessarily foreshadow a breakdown for him in season 9. Hopefully it only foreshadows a closer and more open relationship with Ruth in future!