(I must tell you, Regulus, that she remains quite put out over the outcome of the auction. I cannot think what she might have been like had she won, but by the third sidelong mention I made it clear that the matter interested me not in the slightest and you even less, I suspect.)
Was treated then to a litany of matters requiring the Council's and Lord Protector's input. Noted with some surprise that nearly forty per cent of the muggles dispatched to fulfill work orders have been returned as 'defective,' by which, further inquiry discovered, they mean ill. Must determine whether their susceptibility is a side-effect of having been kept dormant so long or whether this strain of flu is somehow more virulent than previously suspected.
Also pointed out the MLE's efforts to locate certain persons suspected of providing inflammatory and false reports to the traitor Black. Authorised the Minister to offer rewards for information leading to a successful arrest of anyone colluding or conspiring with the traitor or his guerillas, and advised her, per meeting with Scrimgeour on Monday, that the MLE are considering as a suspect any person who in the course of work has contact inside the camps and subsequently falls missing. (Also recommended they review the department attendance records throughout the Ministry and camps for additional intelligence.) It is also possible that Black's men are kidnapping those whom they believe may be coerced into giving up details which Black may then misconstrue in order to continue the public panic.
Endured her requests for additional funds for various projects and departments; ignored her simpering over the boys' return to their Quidditch side and the state of her Christmas shopping. Had to return her to the agenda more than usual, which again, I think, attests to her disappointment of the week-end.
Discussed Draco's Christmas request with Ari over tea, and later with Narcissa. Believe we have reached an accord on the matter. Ari's advice was quite sound and valued, given that his eldest is a few years ahead of Draco, giving him a perspective beyond that of our recollection of our own youth.
Holiday season is already in full bloom. Narcissa has scheduled the winter garden preparations early next week; we are considering whether to open Kensington during the week between Christmas and New Year's, though I doubt there should be the need. Crispin surprised me by having the elves lay in toddy and punch early and he has already finished compiling the invitations from last year (acceptances, declines) so that Narcissa may finalise her batch to-day. (Unsure whether to think he is in such a merry frame of mind because he has renewed his attention to his work, or because he has found a new distraction from it.)
Pansy: Received your owl. In light of the decision rendered by the courts, I see no reason we should not be able to spend some time together. In fact, where a month ago it might have been necessary for you to approach your mother with the request first, these days, it seems she is very interested in my friendship again. I think we both know the reason why. But let us not dismiss our opportunities when they present themselves. I have been thinking I might go with you to Mrs Black, which would accomplish two of your goals together, wouldn't it? Still, likely the prudent thing will be for you to express your wishes to her directly, but of course I shall consent.
Regarding your other topics: Your father used to use the Tintinnabulum hex quite effectively (it causes a ringing in one's opponent's ears) and I recall a half-year when we were all very fond of Heliovox, which although it is in no way debilitating, used to provide hours of amusement, particularly if aimed at sixth- and seventh-year boys. You might also try Nebulosus Visio, which blurs the vision of the opponent and was another of your father's favourites. Though that is a little more advanced than second-year work. It is also never too soon to practise casting silently - the really accomplished duellists never disadvantage themselves by announcing their intentions.
We shall be able to discuss other matters in more detail when we see each other.
This entry was originally posted at http://alt-lucius.dreamwidth.org/25253.h
Remembering that it was around this time last year when Draco began experiencing discomfort, Narcissa sent some of her remedies up with me. Was able to take tea with the boys and deliver her parcel. Naturally both boys have been overjoyed to return to their team well in time to practise for the next match. Discussed their Christmas lists; Draco's request was, I must say, something that bears some thought.
The Board of Governors spent some discussion of the Bludger incident, as well, in particular Lockhart's involvement after the fact, and the subsequent and most unfortunate vigilante action against Madam Hooch's sister. In the case of the latter, it was clear that the perpetrator acted independently, if precipitously, in some misguided attempt at retaliation. As for Professor Lockhart, he was called before the Board to answer for his assumption of responsibility and agreed to the suspension of two weeks' salary in recompense. I daresay Mr Vandemar would rather it be a month's salary, given Lockhart's outrageous stipend, but even two weeks' reduction is, one must admit, a relief to the school's books.
Off to Presto's board meeting, then Court. Saturday is Narcissa's auction, to which Regulus has been kind enough to escort her, so have made plans to go with Ari and Cadmus to the club and perhaps elsewhere to-morrow evening.
This entry was originally posted at http://alt-lucius.dreamwidth.org/24899.h
Spencer-Wells also warns of some preliminary cases of what might be tuberculosis in certain sectors of the camps - muggle and mudblood areas, unfortunately. All reasonable precautions are being taken to protect the camp staff, of course - and it hardly goes without saying that this is entirely co-incidental to the insane accusations of an incurable, unknown plague. It is nothing at all that the Healers cannot address in the proper course of their other, higher priority duties.
However, this does mean that the mudblood recall may be adjusted to ensure that no threat is passed on to any subjects of the Protectorate.
Court at Buckingham proved almost entertaining this afternoon. The Lord Protector reviewed several petitions with His customary sense of ... poetic justice. Intrigued by the request for six blocks of New London, near Rotherhithe, for new warehousing including a direct Floo to Ramsgate in order to more easily shift the petitioner's merchandise. Also amused by the complaint levelled against a particular landlord in a rather notorious halfblood neighbourhood. In addition to the expected allegations (high rents, small flats, noise, insufficient heat, etc.), the plaintiff cited 'unpleasant neighbours' as a fault of the owner!
Ned began his internship this week; have promised to take him to luncheon to-morrow after meeting with Dolores, to hear his impressions of the work thus far. Understand that Narcissa's niece has somehow managed to hang on to a measure of the appointment she secured here, though from what I am told, it is doubtless due to some charity on the part of Pearson and her other superiors. To hear Warrington tell it, only one thing distinguishes her more than her hair colours, and that is her clumsiness! He even attempted to lay the blame on Nymphadora for the utter loss of the initial tuberculosis report, saying she had overturned a beaker of tea onto it. Have not seen her myself, of course, since her evenings were reduced, but somehow do not find the accusation hard to believe. Recall her knocking over a Vitalverdic Vase at the Prewett home, following the funeral; had to intervene with Walburga rather quickly while Rodolphus repaired the thing.
This entry was originally posted at http://alt-lucius.dreamwidth.org/24584.h
- Vox:Warlocks
Briefest of luncheons; straight back to the Ministry and into conference with Warrington and Nott; then Buckingham; finally back to the Ministry to confirm that Nott, Spencer-Wells and Dolores had met and reached a suitable conclusion; whereupon we were once again closeted to determine the exact wording of the announcement for the morning Prophet. Luckily, Miss Robins anticipated that we would be detained through supper and took the liberty of ordering from Sainsbury's.
Warrington has Bole on the Floo now and Spencer-Wells has contacted Griderson for action to-morrow straight off. Should be able to receive an update from them both during my weekly hour with the Minister.
Suffice to say that the labour demand shall be met and the Muggleborn Labour Committee shall no longer find itself overrun with impossible requests.
Just about to leave when Rookwood stopped me in the entrance hall. No answer would satisfy but that I accompany him immediately down to the ninth level to view new evidence that figures highly in his research. Clear that Rookwood's direction requires additional licence and agreed to raise the matter with the Minister in the morning.
This entry was originally posted at http://alt-lucius.dreamwidth.org/24398.h
Tea with Ari exceedingly pleasant, although cut short by a request from Pandora to call him home prematurely. She believes Natalie is already exhibiting signs of magic - though at seven months, this is quite unlikely. Made him promise to Floo us if she is right.
Ned has accepted an interim post in Purity Control. Understand he shall be assisting Nott with a project long on his list: Reviewing the record books and intake parchments against Daily Prophet notices and Ministry marriage, birth and death certificates from the last twelve years. Gather that the recent discovery of the halfblood, previously believed to have sprung from two non-magical parents, has weighed heavily on Nott. Despite an otherwise robust and exhaustive process employed when first separating mudbloods from those with a legitimate claim to magic, Theodore has decided to assign Ned to double-check and reassess the genealogies. Well, it should keep him busy, at least!
Pansy, I am sorry again that we were cut short on Saturday. I am always at your disposal, Little Bit, should there be anything you wish to discuss.
This entry was originally posted at http://alt-lucius.dreamwidth.org/24212.h
It is lucky for all concerned that Marvolo had the opportunity to end the match when he did; moreover that he was not harmed severely. The incident, naturally, has thrown all our plans into disarray. We shall be laying tea adjacent to the hospital wing, so that we may remain close by in case of need.
I have already ordered a full investigation to determine who hexed that bludger, you may be sure! I expect Minerva and Madam Hooch to have an answer before supper.
This entry was originally posted at http://alt-lucius.dreamwidth.org/24004.h
Minerva, kindly enlighten me as to what exactly is going on in your school. Petrified cats? Messages on the walls? Young Marvolo hearing voices that may-or-may-not speak Parseltongue? Apparently it is far too much to ask that any visit of Ministry personnel pass without some incident to complicate the occasion. At least there is one consolation, for this occurred entirely without relation to my own presence at the school; I was beginning to believe myself cursed. Nonetheless, shall still remind Crispin to clear my calendar for the day following Draco's match. We should not like to be forced to extend our stay; however, if this year is anything like the last, we must be prepared for calamity at any major event!
But enough of that, at least until I am more informed as to what precisely has so gripped the school as to make it teem with gossip.
To return to the gala for a moment, the fireworks were particularly well-received by Our Lord. Indeed, most of His gifts pleased Him. Curiously, there was one gift that I had not expected to see. It seems an ambitious, but foolish civil servant cast his eye on a pair of antique duelling wands recently acquired by the Ministry. He doubtless admired the set and thought it would make a highly suitable - and memorable - present to bring to Our Lord's attention ... in his own name. Imagine Narcissa's and my surprise when Lucretia Prewett's wands were presented to Our Lord 'from His admiring servant, Gaddeus Gaffert.'
Mr Gaffert was wise enough not to make this presentation in person. I have business at the Ministry to-morrow, as usual, however, and be assured I shall seek him out to discuss the ... appropriateness ... of his unusual interpretation of protocol, to sign his own name to an item already legally ceded to Our Lord's treasury!
Well, as I said, we proceeded from Buckingham to Burghley, where we spent a particularly pastoral day and enjoyed an excellent wine along with a superb concert at the refurbished Peterborough Cathedral. Every excursion seems to have a price, however - such as leaving my correspondence on the journals until our return this evening!
I have a little reading to do for Presto and NRBC. Perhaps to-morrow I shall have some answers before I return to Court. If not, then I am sure we shall learn much more on our jaunt up to the school for the Quidditch.
This entry was originally posted at http://alt-lucius.dreamwidth.org/23561.h
I am sure that all join me in wishing Him a most joyous birthday and all prosperity in the coming year.
I for one look forward to seeing the Razzer's planned gift. He has hinted on it a few times this past week and if it lives up to his description, it ought to be highly amusing to see. Confident our token shall meet His approval as well.
Well, Narcissa is ready at least. We are off.
This entry was originally posted at http://alt-lucius.dreamwidth.org/23458.h
Fortunately, by last night, she felt able to take a light supper in her rooms and this morning came down to breakfast, pronouncing herself quite fit again, apart from a lingering fatigue that shall surely improve with another day's relaxation and medicine. Took a half-dose myself as a preventative measure, though have not experienced any early symptoms. But then, Narcissa shook a good many more hands and was, I daresay, thrown in closer with more people at the reception than I. In any event, flu continues to travel about the Ministry; thus precautions are warranted.
Otherwise, have been quite occupied catching up with review copies and manuscripts for Obscurus, a meeting at the WWN to discuss future programming in the new year and preparing for today's Prophet Advisory Board meeting. Have a deal to say about the behaviour of several of Bole's reporters, particularly this Doyle chap. Skeeter has petitioned to be reassigned back to the paper full-time. Gather that she and Lovegood argue monthly over the organisation of The Quibbler - most amusing, really. Though if it comes to that, there's no saying for certain how much longer The Quibbler shall persist. Recent data indicate subscriptions have fallen to less than half that of Seeker Weekly and barely one-third of Proper Warlock. Unsure that the market for quirky, conspiracy-theory laden periodicals is what it once was under Bagnold's incompetent administration.
Speaking of Ministers, this morning's meeting with Dolores, following directly on her staff meeting as it does, presented a number of minor annoyances to be delegated within MLE and to the Unspeakables. Dolores remains wholly convinced that Bonfire Night shall see a wide-scale revolt in the camps, which is clearly paranoia on her part. Still, knowing that I am scheduled to see Rowle to-morrow, she implored me to mention to him again her hope that his comprehensive coverage of public gatherings is fully prepared for next week, and to review with him his plans for increased presence among the camp Enforcers.
Draco, expect Valerian to-morrow with a parcel for you. Do not open it until you are alone in your dormitory. It replaces the item I gave you at the end of last term; I should like the original back when we see you next week-end.
This entry was originally posted at http://alt-lucius.dreamwidth.org/23098.h
The memorial service shall be held tomorrow at ten o'clock in the morning. There will be an announcement in the Evening Prophet with the details. The family have asked that her entombment be private: Family members and close friends only. To assure that these wishes are honoured, we are withholding the location at this time. Those who are invited have received owls.
A public reception will follow at Kensington on Monday afternoon beginning at three o'clock.
This entry was originally posted at http://alt-lucius.dreamwidth.org/22617.h
For myself, Rookwood, Avery, Travers, Dunstan, Croaker and I met up at the club for our own supper. We made quite a raucous party, to be sure, though it was a shortened evening out of necessity. Dolores has been, if possible, even more concerned with Bonfire Night than last year, so half the Aurors and most of her personal staff are required to attend early morning bi-weekly meetings in preparation. Nonetheless, the occasion afforded the opportunity to speak informally with several consultants before they retired for the night – and to inquire after their current projects.
Rookwood and Croaker are pleased with their trial results thus far. Fair to say that the inspections Our Lord conducted met unparalleled success. Moreover, He was eager to dispense justice to the miscreants who attempted to disrupt the visit and He was not disappointed.
Interesting discussion at Muggleborn Labour this morning: It seems there has been a slight increase in the number of requests for mudblood work crews. Warrington prepared to declare this a success for the servants’ placement programme. Were the requests for suitable labour, might have given his claim credit. Suggested he spend more time and effort on the existing governmental work details for mudbloods and let the Muggle Domestication office sort out requests for unskilled labourers. The mudblood crews we have authorised for large-scale projects at present are already committed to their essential tasks and cannot be spared.
Reports of spreading illness at Hogwarts are most disturbing. Narcissa is determined we shall not miss Draco’s first Quidditch match, regardless if half the school are in their sickbeds. Minerva, have you considered postponing if necessary? I understand that even after liberal doses of potion, flu victims remain contagious for several days. (Draco, do see that you are keeping yourself protected.)
This entry was originally posted at http://alt-lucius.dreamwidth.org/22365.h
Summoned yesterday afternoon by an urgent fire call from Shroton. Preparations for Our Lord's visit were disrupted by a rather pervasive reaction to the news of Black's accomplice's capture. Several of the Mudblood sections of the camp took a notion to refuse to work. Apparently had the ridiculous idea that if they protested, we should be forced to negotiate. The camp enforcers attempted first to subdue them but in the scuffle an enforcer lost his wand to a mudblood.
He was stopped in a matter of moments, of course. But the administrator requested Council involvement immediately to oversee the investigation of the incident, as well as the subsequent trial of the remaining agitators.
Spent most of the night at the camp, along with Mulciber and Rookwood, to ensure that the plans and protections were well in order before the Lord Protector's scheduled arrival.
Cancelling tea, Ari, as you might expect. I've only a few hours to restore myself and then must return to the camp.
Harry, I'm glad to hear you are feeling more yourself.
Draco, I would like you to make sure you keep yourself from cold or draughts and do by all means see Madam Pomfrey at the first sign if you've caught anything. (That goes for you, Miss Parkinson, as well.)
This entry was originally posted at http://alt-lucius.dreamwidth.org/22124.h
- Where:Home
Three new applications to conduct business passed through the Commerce committee. Two members stepping down at year's end; MacMillan asked for a volunteer to head the nominating committee (which was entertaining, to say the least) - by virtue of no one else wanting the job, Patil will take it on.
Crispin reported earlier than usual this morning and imparted that the issues we discussed on Thursday would not pose further trouble. When I asked his meaning, he said only that he and Miss Kirke have parted ways and that henceforth he would be able to rededicate himself to service.
Naturally it is most unfortunate that they could not come to better compromise, but I cannot but admit relief that I have not lost a valued member of staff over the matter.
This entry was originally posted at http://alt-lucius.dreamwidth.org/21995.h
Needless to say, this confession coming minutes before I was due at the Board meeting, I had only a moment to express my disappointment. Had this been a more vital document, or he other than exemplary these five years, I should have terminated
The advantage of this timing became clear, of course, in that it allowed me to reproach him with considerably less vigour than I might have done, had I been able to see to it immediately. The interruption of two hours, coupled with the application of focus necessary to withstand the Board meeting, provided a modicum of perspective which I daresay should have remained absent otherwise, for which I am sure we are both grateful.
I flatter myself that I am tolerant of those changes that inevitably occur when a young man finds his responsibilities growing outside of work, and so I began by offering him a chance to tell me whether his recent inadequacies might have any root in his personal affairs. He attempted to deny the fact, but it was clear immediately that such has been the case. Asked him why he had not come to me sooner to communicate his distress - and he stammered that he feared I should be cross were he to impose upon me for personal advice.
Replied that I have been much more cross at the inconsistency and lack of focus his obvious distraction has caused him, and by extension, my own affairs. Reminded him that I have no wish to pry or meddle into his private business, save that negligence affecting his conduct forces me either to amend his dilemma if I may, or discharge him from his obligations to me, if there can be no other alternative. I had been willing to ascribe his deterioration to any number of reasonable excuses, such as the increased pressure prior to our sojourn abroad, but the breaches in fulfillment of his duties have not abated. Indeed, I daresay they have grown more and more noticeable over the weeks since our return! Allowed, at his defence, that after our last discussion about this unacceptable trend, he had improved for a time, but reiterated that the problems have gradually increased again. Inquired whether he wished to dissolve his affiliations to my interests. He insisted that he had no desire to leave, much less to be dismissed, but confessed his shame over allowing his predicament to impinge upon his work to this extent. Suggested he might find his situation less burdensome were he to come out with whatever impediments have been plaguing his peace of mind.
Fearing that his tale might be long in the telling, I ordered up supper that we might occupy a less formal attitude and the meal fortify our discourse. Suspected I knew what the trouble might be. But he assured me without my urging that he had not visited any impropriety on Miss Kirke, though indeed, she has been in no small way the source of his division of heart of late.
Gathered within the first few anecdotes among his awkward litany that the relationship has certainly been heading down a serious road, but sensed his reluctance where the young lady is concerned. Not entirely certain whence it derives, as I have met the witch in question and there can be no objection of which I am aware. Nonetheless, he has clearly been finding it difficult to balance his accustomed workload with the growing pressure Miss Kirke has been, ah, exerting, upon him. Asked him if he has been contemplating matrimony, at which he rather blanched but allowed that he had not ruled out the possibility. He did not seem to think she would refuse, were he to make the offer. (Indeed, it rather sounded as if she planted the idea in the first place.)
There are times when I am glad I am no longer a green youth. On the other hand, it is no great distinction to be called upon as an agony aunt, either!
Did my best to remain sympathetic. Narcissa really is so much better at these matters. I confess I grow impatient too quickly. (Though perhaps it is useful practice for the day Draco shall need paternal advice on the topic.)
Advised him on three points - delicately, of course. First that he should consider whether his affections for the young lady equal her demonstrations of esteem for him. Second that he ought to determine for him-self whether he could satisfy both the demands of establishing a new family and his commitment to the prestigious position he occupies in my household. And third encouraged him to examine closely whether he should be able to support and maintain domestic bliss from a position of, perhaps less prominence, but also less pressure; one that would afford him more luxury to meet a spouse's expectations, as well as his employer's, even if it might come at a cost of income, social standing or other enhancements.
By this time, it had grown quite late, so I released him with the instruction to contemplate his choices and recommended he consult his own family, particularly his father, on the matter before him. Agreed that he might have the week-end to tender a resignation, if that is his choice, at which time I shall endeavour to assist him in his efforts to seek another situation; or if he chooses to remain, he agrees to make all effort to live up to the high standard which has been his wont for the majority of our association.
Well. Perhaps Ned might like to clerk for a time, if it comes to that. I cannot countenance enduring the services of another substitute like Witter!
This entry was originally posted at http://alt-lucius.dreamwidth.org/21649.h
Unsurprisingly, this second year at Hogwarts has begun with some consternation already. Astonished that for once, my son is nowhere near the centre of it. Just as well, for I have confirmed with my colleagues the order I placed this summer, in the event Draco makes the Quidditch team. I shouldn't like to have to deprive him of his reward thanks to any recklessness before the term even began.
Intrigued by Miss Sandoval’s early show of leadership. Indeed, the Governors are always gratified when the students are inspired to protest their loyalty and commitment to excellence; good show.
The full ramifications of the manner of young Marvolo’s non-traditional arrival at school remain to be seen. Per the Lord Protector’s request, I spoke with several members of the MLE and the Muggle Artifacts and Properties Control Board yesterday, to make inquiries as to the status of the vehicle and the investigation into the alleged magical barrier disruption at King’s Cross. As the Prophet detailed, the vehicle being damaged first by the Whomping Willow and then ‘lost’ (per the boys’ report) to the Forbidden Forest, it is unfortunately impossible to check the car for any evidence of tampering. The barrier, however, seems completely unaffected by the fantastical set of circumstances that both young men describe. Were it not that young Marvolo himself insists that the barrier was utterly impassable, the other lad’s tale would present a much thornier problem.
As it is, whatever caused the spell failure at King’s Cross appears to have dissipated. As anyone who was at the station to see the train off knows, the barrier was working perfectly well within a minute or two after eleven o’clock. Certainly, there were no suspicious characters to be seen in the area, either.
More to the point is the question of how Weasley ever acquired the artifact in the first place, let alone spent enough time on the wretched thing to imbue it with flight.
The continued annoyance of the traitor, Sirius Black, has been on many minds over the last several days, as well. While it was far from the only reason for the MLE’s proposed upgrade to the journals, it was posited that the change in platform might free us from his ludicrous interruptions. No such luck, it would seem. Well, we shall soldier on.
Though I am quite curious to learn exactly which person was so unobservant as to address Black’s replacement journal, I must say. That, too, has been the subject of more than one discussion this week. Thank goodness Bella is back at the forefront of the department.
Minerva, how are your two new staff members settling in? Do let the Governors know if Dawlish does not behave himself.
Not sure where I stand on the issue of allowing private tutors for students during the year, however. Certainly, one can understand that there are families who feel they must, let us say, compensate for other shortcomings by continuing summer activities into the school term. On the other hand, we send our children to Hogwarts to learn the art and practice of magic, not these … supplemental … pursuits. Draco shall be begging for his art tutor to make the trek up to Hogwarts, next!
No matter. I suppose if parents wish to turn the school into the Hogwarts Arts Academy, on their own Galleon, they are within their capacity to do so. So long as no one is required to attend pantos and trite concerts, I daresay we remain safe.
Narcissa, I fear I shall be late this evening. With all the inquiry into the events of the week, we have had no time to review the Wizengamot docket for next Wednesday.
This entry was originally posted at http://alt-lucius.dreamwidth.org/21328.h
To begin, there was the headline in the Prophet on the morning after our outing to Diagon Alley. Had Crispin schedule an immediate appointment with Bole. Naturally he summoned the reporter to answer for his ridiculous story (scuffling over one of Lockhart's books, I ask you!). Hence the retraction from Friday's paper - though not before being subjected, in turn, to an equally tedious request for information concerning the new Hogwarts' faculty and staff. Told Bole exactly what he could do with his nosing.
As promised, took Ned round with me to the Obscurus board meeting last week and to Magical Commerce yesterday. Discussed his alternatives with Nott and Selwyn, as well, since he expressed an interest in camp administration.
Presto's meeting also occurred last week. Reviewed the proceeds from last quarter and the release timetable for the quarter upcoming. Apparently there is a good deal of science directed toward the selection of appropriate dates - particularly those titles of interest to students about to embark for Hogwarts. Stands to reason, certainly, but not, I admit, something I had given any consideration heretofore. Still uncertain what Nolan expects of me, other than the prestige of the Malfoy name on the Board, but it gives one time to review correspondence.
Which one has had increasingly to do oneself. Crispin has been most perturbing of late. When not rushing out on unnamed errands, he has been seriously distracted. Since our return, I daresay, young Miss Kirke has wished to compensate for his long absence. Unfortunately, it would appear that he is losing his previous skill at prioritising her place in his thoughts with his place in my employ. He remains an excellent clerk, for the time being, albeit one not quite as dedicated as once he was.
One other matter: have consulted Rodolphus on a private project begun just before our journey to France. Have captured his interest, I think, as I suspected it would with Rigel's appearance on the scene. He recommended I also seek out Peakes for a rather obscure volume in his collection, containing, he believes, a component needed for the project's completion. Should like to finish in time for the beginning of the school term; think perhaps with the information Peakes has, may accomplish it. If, that is, I am able to devote enough time to the process!
I trust we're in agreement on the matter of salary. Certainly he has experience, but there are standards to set. Precedents, that is.
Thought I'd best write it in case your memory is ... hazy ... come morning.
Narcissa, naturally, has been dividing her time between our home and Bella's, and has offered to assist the new parents in reviewing the growing collection of gifts at St James Palace, as well as help plan the naming ceremony. She has, for the most part, been on hand to see to Hydra and the household whenever Druella has not been available. All to the good, but her absence does little to pull one away from long hours spent on the betterment of Our Lord's realm.
Meanwhile, as the Prophet has already reported, there is the matter of Highslip, the undesirable who managed to trick his way into our party in France. (I'll repeat, Selwyn, that I shall be interested to see your reports on the vetting process and how he could have accomplished such a deception.) We have convened a series of hearings regarding the culpability of certain of his relatives and associates. It was recently decided that, to their great relief I am sure, Highslip's parents were not aware of his intentions, nor were they involved in corrupting his commitment to the Protectorate. At least one of his friends was not so lucky.
Speaking of luck, I had Crispin make an appointment for me with Pearson, to discuss the situation regarding Narcissa's niece. Lucky for her that her aunt sees fit to forgive her indiscretions - and to prevail upon me to correct the overzealous application of punishment in her case. (And no, it brings no satisfaction that it is her niece, and not mine, who finds herself in need of intervention this time. I would much rather both of them find it possible to span six months or more together without finding a modicum of trouble!) However in this case, it is not entirely Nymphadora's fault. As I suspected, others besides Pearson had a hand in the severity of her suspension - for what motives, I can only guess. Nonetheless, Pearson's information necessitated another interview, this time with one who had the power to call off the spurious investigation into her unfortunate circumstances. Am confident that the aspersions leveled against her will soon dissipate and she will be allowed to return to employment under certain reasonable restrictions.
Between this errand, which I regret to say took considerably longer than I had anticipated, the other usual occupations (Ministry, various Boards and business obligations), the ongoing repercussions of the successful aspects of the diplomatic mission and of course, personal demands (first of the month accounting, of course, and certain duties I have been honoured to perform for Our Lord of late), one has almost had no time to consider the lack of time.
This afternoon we welcomed Draco home again - however, in something of a mood. I gather that while the camping adventure was rewarding, he rather missed playing a central role in the highlight of the trip - that being, needless to say, the discovery of the trove of contraband late yesterday. (That particular detail will be the object of much scrutiny on behalf of the Ministry, I can assure you!) And as I feared, he did not spend nearly as much time with Harry as he hoped. Somewhat concerned as well by this: The boys have never gone for so long without reconciling. Not sure what this reticence of Harry's portends, either. Will make a point to ask after his health when next at Buckingham, in case there is any basis for the lad's disposition. Have a mind to better acquaint Draco with the responsibilities awaiting him as he reaches majority. If nothing else, the experience may serve to provide him with purpose through the final weeks of the summer. Assuming he has completed all his homework assignments from the end of last term, that is.
At any rate, the occasion of his return at least prompted Narcissa to leave Bella and Rodolphus for a few days and, apart from tea with Ari to-morrow, I find myself with a short break as well. Just as well, for I have to go to Hogwarts on Wednesday and there are a raft of meetings that must be attended prior to the week-end.
There are only a few remaining major items on the timetable: This week-end's State Dinner, a matinée at the Paris Opéra on Sunday, two last meetings with foreign delegations and a final round of interviews, as well as the concluding meeting with the French Minister before returning mid-week.
Minerva, I may have found a partial solution to your recent loss of staff. M Brutka, it turns out, has some experience dealing with magical creatures through his position as a ranger with the Royal Canadian Granian Wizard Squad and more recently his travels in Romania and the Baltic. He might do for your groundskeeper; possibly even Care of Magical Creatures teacher, once his probation is at end. That is, if you have had no other qualified applicants.
Needless to say, M Brutka, along with some ten others, have been approved to emigrate over the course of the next month. There are five remaining candidates, all of whom will undergo their final vetting to-morrow and Monday.
Pansy, I did see the letter you sent asking me to appeal to your mother, but in this case, she is quite right. No-one ever has benefitted from association with the current branch of that clan, and you do well to shut yourself of company that is quite beneath you. No, I am in agreement with her on that score.
Given Amanda's ... news ... we were forced to upset our plans for what little free time we still had available with a visit to Beauxbatons. At least the weather was pleasant enough last week-end for the promised jaunt down to the southern coast, so Draco was able to see the Mediterranean for himself. The proffered duration of our stay there was, of necessity, cut short, in order to make an inspection tour of the school.
As we come closer to our return, Narcissa grows more anxious for news of family at home, however. She is most adamant that Bella does not deliver before we are on-hand in the event of any need. Have assured her that Bella and her healers must have her care well in hand and that there is no need to fuss. News of her niece's misstep, which reached us late yesterday, has not helped her mood in the slightest.
Draco, on the other hand, is most excited at the prospect of seeing his friends again, particularly on the YPL camping trip, and I think has missed participating in the little house parties some of his classmates have hosted, especially that of Stephen's ward. Have tried to explain that the opportunities he has had here this summer have been worth a hundred house parties, and Narcissa too has been quite persuasive in that regard, though neither of us, I suspect, have met the full measure of success we hoped. Still, am confident he will look back in time and regard our sojourn abroad as an incomparable experience. Had to agree that as we approach our departure, I too quite miss the familiar comforts of home, friends and colleagues.
We had decided to take in the excellent booksellers' district in the 6th Arrondissement. (The selection of grimoires and monographs on magic in Paris is unparalleled except perhaps by the great library of Budapest, and Hogwarts' own.) Since it was meant to be a simple, private outing, we elected not to bring along the usual entourage that has dogged our steps the last two weeks.
As it turned out, no harm done. The journals provided yet another service - I am again quite pleased by the variety of application they have seen in this year alone! - and I was able to locate Draco with some effort.
The wizard who noticed him is, in fact, not only genuinely a wizard, but as it happens, one of the applicants to emigrate to the Protectorate: a M David Brutka. I had not yet had the pleasure of interviewing him, but in light of his heroism in reuniting me to my son, invited him for tea and we conducted an informal conference then and there.
(What really puzzled me at first was Draco's description of the Arc de Triumphe at one end of the park. I could not fathom how he had managed to cross the river and gain the Tuileries when we were adjacent to the Rue Danton on la Rive Gauche; it was only later, after finding the two of them together, that I recalled there is an automatic Floo connexion that by-passes the Île de la Cité, provided one approached with wand out and focusing on water. Evidently extreme thirst qualifies.)
At any rate, our benefactor showed initiative and good sense in rescuing Draco, qualities which proved most intrinsic to the man's nature (if such can be believed). M Brutka has consented to come to the embassy house to-morrow for a follow-up interview with Selwyn's representative in the room.
This afternoon we greeted Igor Karkaroff after too long an interim. Narcissa was particularly pleased to re-establish the acquaintance. At one time, Igor was almost a fixture at the Manor, between our business together and Narcissa's admiration for his research.
Those researches have purportedly found a home, it seems. Igor has been offered a prestigious post at Durmstrang. This intrigued Amanda greatly and she commenced with him a comparison among it, Hogwarts, and Beauxbatons. Of the last, she apparently knows a great deal, much more than I would have expected of someone with no children, who settled on the continent after completing her own education. Asked Mother what that was all about and she said simply that Amanda has long taken an interest in the field of academia - which is news to me. I do so dislike being evaded.
Hard to believe our visit is half over. Narcissa insists that we travel south over this week-end as she still has not properly greeted the Riviera, and we have promised Draco an opportunity to sketch the coast.
(Speaking of which, I think he quite enjoys his lessons. I certainly hope so; it is not every wizard of his age who is presented an opportunity to study with a curator in the wizarding levels of the Louvre!)
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