Well, that explains whether or not she recognizes Norrell by sight, Childermass supposes to himself. He had half a mind to assume that she might run as soon as she spotted him. Hence the closing of the door behind the pair of them and discretely locking it shut as well.

"It is, sir," Childermass says, as though Nancy had not just confirmed the fact herself -- for in fact she does not exactly know what they are talking about. He almost feels sorry for Nancy at this point, if he were one for pity. He tries to decide whether he would be better positioned behind Norrell or here by the door. In the end he stays where he is. It would not do to let her escape after they have come so far. He does not think he will steal her away so easily next time, certainly not without force.