Those are actually all fair points, even if Childermass would rather not admit it. Not perfect points, obviously, but it's more than most of the carnival can manage. Even so, he still grimaces some at the thought of Strange being in charge of diplomacy.

"Much more diplomatic than Norrell until you ran off and went mad." Counterpoint. There. "And I would have to question Ignatius whether he feels that way or not. You're a bit obsessive, aren't you?"

Stalking the man you love isn't diplomatic, Strange.