The assistant fusses in and out to make sure they have everything for their tea, leaving a small plate of plain biscuits and hovering a moment until Norrell flaps at them to leave impatiently.

"From India?" he prompts curiously. "I have heard a great deal about India, but I must confess I do not think it would suit me to visit. It is so very hot and dusty, and the facilities..."

He winces, shakes his head a little.