Private Message to Dolores Umbridge

[alt_lucius]

Belated as they may be, allow me to offer my congratulations on your ascent. Who could ever have realised that even the briefest exposure to dozens of shining, cherubic faces, all smiling adoringly and hanging on your every word, should utterly convince you that a life in their service would suit you to the ground. Am sure that they are as pleased by your leadership as you are pleased to bear the full responsibility, now, for their futures. Certain you shall find this new post at least as challenging as managing the Ministry - but no less rewarding.

Do forgive that this comes late in the week, as I said, but there are some of us who are still running a country, not a country school.

As you should remember, one of my duties as both a Governor and one of the Board's representatives to Our Lord's Council is to maintain close communication with the Headmistress. So it seems we shall be conferring again on a regular basis, though am afraid it shall have to be by owl or journal, most of the time: You will recall that my business affairs keep me in New London most of the time, when they do not require me to travel to the corners of Our Lord's glorious realm.

However, there is one notable exception to that condition, when it shall be my happy lot to visit in person: Each quarter, as you know, the Council monitors the recorded instances of magical births among those with no such birthright. That time is fast approaching.

Now that you have doubtless established yourself in the tower, thought it would be prudent for the two of us to review the book, as well as go over a few small matters of protocol which - no doubt - Minerva did not have time to impart to you before her departure.

Monday next? Shall have my clerk inform you of the time.

Comments

[alt_umbridge]

Lucius -

So kind of you to finally have a moment to write, I’m sure.

It is rather a pity that it would be impossible to move Hogwarts far nearer New London and the centre of the Protectorate, really. I do admit that while children are not the audience I would have preferred for my skills, they do present an interesting challenge, and of course a critical resource for Our Lord’s future plans.

As to Monday, that will be quite inconvenient for more than one reason. As I am sure you have heard by now, I am assuming (along with Rolanda Hooch, for the more physical drills) instruction in the Defence classes. I plan to spend time next week setting them along the proper track with reading and other materials heretofore neglected in their curriculum.

At any rate, I could not dream of taking time away from their sessions for a meeting with you, and of course my other hours will be filled with a wide range of important tasks. The following week might do, if necessary.

Beyond that, I’m sure you know that this castle has more than its share of quirks and challenges. It pains me to share that the Head’s office is not yet responding properly to my due authority and new role. I have, as you may have seen, messaged dear Minnie about any little tips she might have. Given the delay in gaining what I am sure will be eventual access, I have not been able to arrange things to my preference. I am certain she'll be forthcoming in due course.

[alt_umbridge]

I have since heard back from the former Headmistress. She is being exceedingly unhelpful, but has confirmed that the passwords were not changed.

I will certainly give the matter further attention, but apparently, the castle has been prone to certain stubborn difficulties in the past. It may take some time to resolve.

[alt_lucius]

Minerva? Unhelpful? After all you have done to help her, how surprising. Indeed, as I said at the Board meeting (multiple ones, in fact), I have never known Professor McGonagall to be anything but professional in her conduct toward her colleagues. Shall not here discuss her personal ailments, which have admittedly resulted in inconsistencies in the execution of her duties.

But, be that as it may, it must be quite unnerving to be met with resistance on the part of stone walls and wooden doors, particularly when you have been accepted with universal accolade on the part of the staff and students. No doubt your diligent effort will succeed in the end. It does present rather a problem, however, in that while the office is impenetrable, the book is unavailable as well. Of course, there may be a solution to that problem from my perspective. Cannot see how it would resolve your ongoing difficulties but am sure you shall sort it in time.

But as to our meeting: Monday it shall be, Dolores. I have no time to re-arrange other commitments and there is a degree of urgency to our discussion, so that you may properly orient to your directives from Board and Council before you implement changes that shall merely require reversing.

If you find yourself pressed for time, you might put Razzer back in his classroom - where he belongs - and save yourself that trouble, in the bargain.

[alt_umbridge]

If it must be Monday, I suppose I will manage it somehow. It is most inconvenient, however. And confusing to the dear children.

As to your last, I cannot imagine you are suggesting that, given the gravity of the accusation against him. I would be more than glad to provide access to the corroborative proof (both via pensieve and via a written statement from Miss Calderwood), of course, since you are persisting in visiting anyway.

I am sure your personal loyalties must make it difficult for you to accept his egregious errors in judgement and professionalism, but I had thought you a wizard of greater sense, especially given your notable concern for Miss Parkinson. Young witches rely on their elders for a great deal of protection and care, and I will take every possible precaution in that regard.

As to the office, I am certain some solution will be found, but it may take some time. This is the problem with entirely inadequate documentation about the castle magics, and it is a subject no one has taken much interest in in years, as I understand it. (I have, of course, asked Irma for assistance, but she said she would have to prepare several volumes for circulation again.)