"Norrell," he offers with a slight nod, "You have perhaps, read of me...?"

Said with both confidence and hope of recognition, for there are few things Norrell values more than recognition and praise. Gilbert Norrell thinks highly of himself, but finds himself so lacking in like minded people who understand him. Vivienne may be a woman but, perhaps, as a woman and a witch both...! There may be some hope for her. Yes, of course she may never quite reach his level of understanding but that is to be expected.