Private Message to Cornelius Fudge and Dominic Selwyn

[alt_lucius]

Confirming to-morrow's arrangements.

Rousseau and Propopov have settled in comfortably; Narcissa's been a marvel this week-end, must say, with them and their wives. Propopov is still focused on the Cup, of course, and full of demands regarding when the Bulgarian team may have access to the stadium for practice sessions. (Could have had more tact than to mention it prominently in front of Rousseau, who is, I believe, still smarting that France was eliminated in the quarter-finals.)

Weasley received the owls from your offices regarding the agenda of meetings for the week. May have to change if Propopov insists on attending the side's arrival, as I suspect he shall.

Dominic, you'll still be available to accompany Rousseau on his tour of New London? Heard from Pontner to confirm he and his wife shall conduct Propopov's delegation. Press are arranged, as well? Would re-arrange calendar if necessary but seem to recall Amanda, Froissart and the boy are arriving sometime in that window. To say nothing of sparing Narcissa yet another day playing hostess.

You'll not believe it - perhaps you will, at that - but Rousseau brought up an age restriction again. Best adjust the meeting agenda to include thirty minutes to explain - again - the unlikelihood of an underage wizard being selected. Was tempted to invite him to restrict his numbers accordingly but stopped myself at the last moment. No need to open that phial of poison again!

Must return in a few moments. Needed a brief respite and this provided the perfect excuse.

Comments

[alt_selwyn]

Yes, I believe that's why we'd ignored some hints regarding their interest, and refrained from putting a camp on the itinerary from the get-go. Are you thinking perhaps a tour of some sort of work unit, instead? Do you have a particular option in mind?

[alt_lucius]

First, I believe that Rousseau's and Propopov's delegations have been exchanging notes, which may be the source of their sudden renewed interest in such an outing.

But second, yes. If they insist on a display of the proof of our success in cowing the chattel, then you might approach Archimedes Bobolis. He's always eager for a chance to increase his standing in Our Lord's eyes. And no tour can be too arduous when it ends in a tasting.

[alt_selwyn]

Oh, that's an excellent thought. I'll have my clerk owl Bobolis first thing tomorrow; I've no doubt he'll want to make some preparations before having us all descend upon him.

Perhaps I'll get a spot of Christmas shopping done early, while we're there. No one ever complains about a nice bottle of firewhiskey, and it's not as if it'll go off before the holidays. Unless I drink it myself, which I suppose is a possible risk...

[alt_lucius]

While you're at it, see if Bobolis will give each delegation a case of his best label.

[alt_selwyn]

Naturally.

[alt_lucius]

Well, naturally, yes, but it's the sort of thing Bobolis won't volunteer by himself. Not in those quantities, at any rate.

Ought to rescue Narcissa. You'll be here at 10:00? We can talk more then.