She expected her ladyship to reply with some praise for Mr Norrell’s extraordinary magical ability or some words of gratitude for his kindness. But Lady Pole said nothing and so Arabella continued in an encouraging tone, “Of course we have heard a great deal of the wonderful magic which Mr Norrell performed on your ladyship’s behalf.”

“Mr Norrell has been no friend to me,” said Lady Pole in a dry, matter-of-fact tone. “I had far better be dead than be as I am.”

It was such a shocking thing to hear that for several moments Arabella could think of nothing to say. She had no reason to love Mr Norrell. He had never done her any kindness – indeed he had several times gone out of his way to shew how little he regarded her, but for all that he was the only other representative of her husband’s profession. So, just as the wife of an admiral will always take the part of the Navy or the wife of a bishop will speak up in favour of the Church, Arabella felt obliged to say something in defence of the other magician. “Pain and suffering are the very worst of companions and no doubt your ladyship grows heartily sick of them. No one in the world could blame you for wishing to be rid of them …” (Yet even as Arabella spoke these words, she was thinking, “It is very odd but she does not look ill. Not in the least.”) “But if what I hear be true, then your ladyship is not without solace in your suffering. I must confess that I have never heard your ladyship’s name spoken without its being accompanied by some praise for your devoted husband. Surely you would not gladly leave him? Surely, your ladyship, you must feel a little grateful to Mr Norrell – if only for Sir Walter’s sake.”

Lady Pole did not reply to this; instead she began to question Arabella about her husband. How long had he practised magic? How long had he been Mr Norrell’s pupil? Was his magic generally successful? Did he perform magic by himself or only under Norrell’s direction?

Arabella did her best to answer all the questions adding, “If there is any thing your ladyship would like me to ask Mr Strange on your behalf, if there is any service he can do, then your ladyship has only to name it.”

“Thank you. But what I have to tell you is as much for your husband’s sake as mine. I think Mr Strange ought to hear how I was left to a horrible fate by Mr Norrell. Mr Strange should know what sort of man he has to deal with. Will you tell him?”

“Of course. I …”

“Promise me that you will.”

“I will tell Mr Strange any thing your ladyship wishes.”