[he looks up, trying to smile and falling short of it.] You probably preempted me finding some way to do it. Now I'll never be able to top that, and I'll have mind my manners.

[there's the humor slinking slowly back into his expression.] I know it probably means less now than it would have then, but you really did do well here. In fact, I would like it if you could keep working with us wherever we go next.