Childermass rolls his eyes slightly at the other man. "I promised them nothing," he insists. "I pulled what tricks I was able to get out of there as fast as I could before they were able to exact anything from me and came straight here." Instead of to hospital or anywhere he probably should have headed before coming straight to Norrell.

"They've painted a target on you, Mr Norrell. And now they know my association with you as well. You need to guard yourself. I would not be surprised if that election were only the beginning, given recent events." Being stabbed for prying and all.