my opinion: 1.the longer it takes to get a partner the worse the...

my opinion:
1.the longer it takes to get a partner the worse the conditions/dilution.
2.If on the other hand you are a short term trader you would see a good opportunity to buy now and sell at the announcement of partnership.
2a. if the partnership only includes funding for well 2 - (as a short term trader) I would definitely sell then. The risks become all or nothing.
2b. if the partnership includes funding for all wells- the minimum risk play is to still sell on the partnership announcement. If you want to stay on then waiting for results from well 2 doesnt become so risky.