He appreciates the genuine attempt to get his name right, at least.

"We will soon find out, I should think. 'Tis a matter of asking the right questions... but admittedly, I haven't the foggiest where to start."

What do you even ask someone from a different world? He recalls Hermes, and his questions to those on other stars. What makes your life worth living? Hmm... that won't be very helpful here, will it?