The manner in which we're brought here-- is there any controlling it?

[Whether there is or not, he might receive the same answer. But that's not his main point.]

My best work was done with a partner, you see, and I'd very much like to have her here.

[Which he has a feeling is a bit of an unusual statement. Most people here seem to want those they know to be kept out of it if possible.]

I ask only out of curiosity.