Dolores Umbridge

Luxovius,

First, I am just so very glad indeed that you alerted me just as soon as you became aware of the potentially far-reaching implications of your examination of Mr Goyle this afternoon.

Now, I know you came here to concentrate on your very interesting research, but at the same time it is a regrettable reality that students will present themselves at the least convenient times. I do hope that as we transmute the school into the purified and perfected form some of us here seek, these teensy little distractions to our greater work will become fewer and further between. I do appreciate your patience, truly.

As to Mr Goyle, I realise that we have not had sufficient time for me to fully acquaint you with the various irregular and highly problematic events of this school year. I do believe I had referred to irresponsible, ill-considered, and self-serving displays of magic that tempted our more impressionable students into unwise private exploration. (This, of course, is yet another reason for my recent decrees.)

The trouble was substantial, though I am sure you will be vastly more effective at finding a speedier treatment regimen than our former matron managed to be - of course you will, having greater training and wider exposure to all the best minds at St Mungo's. Really, she might have served well enough thirty years ago, but in this enlightened age, I'm sure we can do a great deal better.

I'm certain she did leave some notes somewhere about the details, and that all the fuss made over the treatments were entirely to cover her own potential mishandling should there be problems. I cannot imagine why you are fussing over it - surely a teensy little stomach problem can't possibly be linked to the previous injury, that blood-changing curse? The stomach and the blood are entirely different, surely. One being liquid, and all.

Finally, on your question about the political ramifications. Well, of course it would be most inconvenient and troublesome if any lasting harm came to a child from one of the most notable families. But at the same time, the children - misled though they were - did make their own choices, and I would hope that the most dedicated of families would recognise the importance of that lesson.

Now, do let me know if there are any other trifling concerns.

Poppy -

I do hate to bother you on a Saturday evening, but really, you’ve assured us ever so many times that you’d rather hear about something sooner, while it’s a small problem, and I'm taking you at your word.

I've had trouble the past few days with my feet and ankles itching, and it’s far worse tonight. I’m sure it must be something simple - this week has been entirely irregular after all. Maybe it’s the dry winter air, or the cold when I was observing Aurora's evening classes on Wednesday, or something of the kind.

i’m normally just as healthy as anything (and so very careful to maintain a regular schedule, eat and sleep far better than most staff here seem to manage.) These little annoyances are so terribly frustrating.

At any rate, would you have a moment to see me this evening, perhaps, or if not, first thing tomorrow?