Lucius S Malfoy

Private Message to Narcissa

Thu, 27 Aug 2015 18:16:16 GMT

I know you've been writing to Draco.

Get word to him, or to Hydra, if you can do it without anyone taking notice: Antonin certainly means to kill Finch-Fletchley. Not idly, if you take my meaning, but as a priority. Obviously the boy's a fool if he doesn't know he's a target but there is a difference between a target of opportunity and one Tosha has already decided to take down.

If you want your niece to retain her husband, you'll warn them to avoid Tosha at all costs. I've gone as far as I can go to talk him out of it without making it obvious.

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Private Message to Barty Crouch

Fri, 27 Jun 2014 18:20:22 GMT

Take care of her.

Tell Tosha - tell him - about Draco. Tell him Draco's body must remain in our crypt, at all costs.

Kill Mulciber, if you have the chance.

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Private Message to Amanda Froissart

Tue, 17 Jun 2014 19:42:55 GMT

Dearest Sister,

Hard to know where to begin. You should know that since our last communication, there has been a breach of security at the Ministry. The journal archives, which were our only means of monitoring private messages, were destroyed. The Ministry are working as quickly as possible to re-build the spells over the existing network but it is ... unclear how long that may take, or if Ned's department will determine the only way to restore oversight is to force an exchange of journals again. But for the moment, we may speak freely.

No doubt - no doubt, you have seen enough through the public entries in journals to understand that Draco disappeared from Hogwarts just after his birthday, under suspicious circumstances. The unfortunate truth is that he stands accused of miscegenation and aiding in the magical education of legal nonpersons. It is impossible to say whether the allegations have any legitimacy but the case against him grows stronger with every day he does not return to explain himself. Early on, it appeared he had been taken prisoner by enemies of the state; whether or not that is actually the case, it is impossible to believe they will arrange a ransom within Our Lord's deadline.

You know the extents to which I will go to protect our family. Could not bear to see you destroy yourself, so many years ago, when you found your situation similarly precarious; cannot now bear to think Draco might perish due to a youthful misstep. Have agreed to stand punishment in his stead, a guarantee against his safe return, whether under his own power or at the hands of his captors (if, indeed, he is a captive).

Naturally, there can be no guarantees as to what may follow after. Am taking any and all necessary steps to protect the family interests, so much as possible. There is one absolutely essential component to the plan which, should it succeed, will require your co-operation. Let us say, for now, only that you may be able to introduce my wife to her nephew, after all.

One cannot help but ... reflect ... on those things one will leave unfinished. Unresolved. Perhaps it is ironic that the same flaw which drove us apart for so long has been visited again in my own son. That after so long promising he should not lose his father, it seems likely, and at the same age I was when we lost Father. That - that the wizard whose vision I have sworn to serve will be the instrument of my downfall.

But not my family's.

Things may move quickly, from here. I've barely a week to make all the necessary arrangements and it must be done carefully, without a hint, lest others derive the impression that I mean to run, rather than merely assure Narcissa's safety. If I can deliver her outside the wards and buy for Draco any measure of clemency, then I will consider the bargain well-struck at whatever price. But as there might not be time later for anything more than an urgent message regarding her expected arrival, this, my dear sister, may be farewell. Tell Mother - tell her, I have done all I can to preserve our legacy.

Take care, Amanda. I pray you remain happy, and safe and healthy.

All my love,

Scip

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Private Message to Percy Weasley

Fri, 13 Jun 2014 16:38:47 GMT

Need meeting with Reginald Helpmann, here or at Manor or Kensington, not at Ministry, at his earliest convenience. Tell him the topic is assembling a delegation for French Morocco. Must include witches and wizards fluent in French and Arabic.

Contact Gringott's. Will have a number of instructions for the goblins regarding access to the vaults and transfer of certain sums to Gringott's France.

Wizarding Wireless Network and Daily Prophet - will need meetings with Peale and Cuffe next week or week after next.

Boniface Caldecott should have current copy of my will. Have him look it over and make certain there is no way for the assets to be seized by the Protectorate. If that is impossible, have him transfer all deeds, titles, ownership, rights, etc. to Mrs Malfoy. Need meeting with him to review/revise current bequests and, if necessary, sign parchment for above transfer.

Contact Osiris Sinclair. Arrange private appointment for myself and Mrs Malfoy to decide on post-mortem options. Private, Weasley, meaning his parlour will be closed whilst we make our selections.

Shall be working from the Manor this after-noon.

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Private Message to Draco and Narcissa

Sun, 08 Jun 2014 02:57:56 GMT

Draco,

We have been in conference for some hours now with Cadmus Mulciber and Theo Nott, Sr. They have quite a tale to tell concerning your relations with that mudblood servant of Harry's.

Son, there is no reason to stay away. You may fear repercussions for having run but if you return immediately, we can sort this out. It is clear that this is a vicious attempt to discredit you for having out-performed Nott's son so roundly in Our Lord's service.

As for the incidents that occurred as you fled, we will of course co-operate with MLE and resolve them. It is no secret that Teddy Nott harassed your friends; it will be no great difficulty to produce witnesses to corroborate that testimony and prove that, however Theo Nott believes himself wronged, his son provoked you and you acted in self-defence.

If there is any truth in their story, it is only that the mudblood clearly has been colluding with a traitor to Our Lord's realm for some time and likely has attempted to ensnare you into her plans. Naturally, it would be shameful to admit any temptation but you would not be the first wizard to find himself so tempted. We know that you could never have committed any such depraved acts as Nott and Mulciber have concocted. Come back, Draco, and set the record straight.

The longer you stay away, the more guilty you appear to be. We know you may be frightened but please, trust your Mother and Father, who only want what is best for you and who will do everything in their power to protect your life and clear your good name.

Do not let your uncle's sacrifice on your behalf go in vain. Come home, now, and we will settle this matter together.

Father and Mother

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Private Message to Narcissa

Sun, 08 Jun 2014 02:08:49 GMT

You'll need to come up to Hogwarts.

Draco is ... unharmed. Come and we'll discuss it.

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Private Message to Narcissa

Fri, 30 May 2014 22:24:46 GMT

Celebration seems in order.

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Private Message to Narcissa

Fri, 21 Mar 2014 01:55:34 GMT

Arrived Durness, about two and a half hours ago. Bode insistent we go straight to the site while he ran tests on the stone. Nothing conclusive as yet.

Likely heading to St David's in the morning before returning to New London. Our Lord will wish an update at Court.

(Interesting to note that when things go wrong, many who might otherwise have sneered default to their previous wont - looking for someone to hide behind, doubtless, but nonetheless amusing to watch.)

Now to the apparently impossible task of finding a decent meal in this wasteland.

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Private Message to Narcissa

Tue, 12 Nov 2013 14:52:11 GMT

Everyone is, for the moment, all right.

Minor injuries to a few of our number - no one seriously harmed - and heavy damage to the camp, its chattel and its surrounding area.

Bella believes she saw Longbottom among the opposition - if that band of traitors is at the head of this mess, it would explain the unanticipated level of organisation among the insurgents. Nonetheless our biggest concern has been keeping the fire from spreading - literally and figuratively - and confining the fight to a manageable radius. (Also suppressing the news but that's an entirely different battle.)

Also combatting an higher than anticipated level of chaos among our own. Confusion and indecision. Infuriating.

Should be finished here by the end of the day, however. Daylight ought to enable us to put things to rest.

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Private Message to Narcissa

Sat, 17 Aug 2013 21:15:08 GMT

Think it's high time we hosted a reception for Our Lord's newer initiates. Perhaps shortly after Tosha and Savitha finish with the CCF students and Draco and the others are home.

Will you see to the arrangements? Up to you whether it's at Kensington or the Manor.

Be sure to include Julius Avery. With any luck we can make sure of his support before anyone else - though given who witnessed his Mark, it seems unlikely.

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Private Message to Narcissa

Fri, 16 Aug 2013 01:23:55 GMT

Dearest, trust you and Hydra can attend tonight's performance on your own; unfortunately some matters require attendance. Have decided to dine here and work straight through; will likely be unavailable until well into the third act.

Nothing to trouble you: Just correspondence that must be completed before week's end.

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Private Message to Narcissa

Tue, 06 Aug 2013 16:49:25 GMT

Are you still in New London?

If you're unable to return, we'll follow. There are matters one could attend more easily back in Town.

Was the situation resolved?

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High Summer

Mon, 15 Jul 2013 23:12:28 GMT

It is a singular curiosity that although they have no current obligations to the Young Protectors' League or (as yet) the Cadet Force, we see almost less of Draco and Harry this summer than years past. All to be expected: Given a summer to fly free, as it were, what young men would not indulge their social predilections?

Nonetheless, it is a pleasure to enjoy pursuits together, such as running the course at the Elysian and the Ouroboros and taking refreshment afterward. It is most gratifying to see them interact with witches and wizards on equal footing, now they are nearly grown. One cannot help be proud of the way in which they conduct themselves and the company they attract.

We have been particularly glad that the weather is so fine - or so they tell us, when they explain that their long-distance flights are a clever method to escape this heat!

The air of Town, however, wants changing this time of year, so we do plan a holiday, if we can manage it. Narcissa favours the west again, perhaps Cornwall. We still have the brigantine which wants a sea holiday, so that is well-suited to her wishes. We may teach the boys a thing or two about sailing.

That is, assuming that the Ministry and affairs of state permit any time at all out of Town. Have no wish to send them alone but that may become necessary, given days like this one.

Commerce committee ran over-long; this business of the black markets getting out of hand. Unsure what, if anything, Yaxley is even doing to control the rise of prices or the disappearance of particular delicacies. The lack of certain products even disrupted our niece's birthday supper. Most intolerable.

Luncheon with Crispin, as well - and discussion of his options at the Ministry. Naturally his well-deserved induction into Our Lord's Council provides him any number of choices; he has merely to determine where his interests lie.

Once back, was detained by an interminable matter at Rookwood's behest. Tosha, will call on you to-morrow if you are at home, to discuss that trifling business! Should interest you to no end.

Speaking of seeing you, Toshenka, Narcissa hopes you and Barty will join us at the week-end at the Manor.

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Private Message to Narcissa

Sat, 01 Jun 2013 04:20:41 GMT

Our Lord is truly the greatest wizard of this or any age.

Shall be able to explain soon - at least I hope. Meanwhile, the most important points:

Dominic Selwyn was responsible. No idea where Chloe has taken the children but should she contact you, you must alert Barty at once. At once.

It seems he had Obliviated me at least three times. Memories returned now.

Not quite safe to return to the Manor yet. Remain where you are with Rigel. Ought to be clear in time for Razzer's wedding

Have an errand to run at the Ministry, cannot wait until morning. Will let you know as soon as I have determined we are safe from any implications in Selwyn's treason.

Of the Council, trust only Barty, Tosha, Rod, Bella, Raz, Ari, myself. Unclear as yet who else was part of the plot. Selwyn can no longer answer, but he was raving toward the end. No idea what Our Lord may have seen in the wretch's thoughts.

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Private Message to Amanda Froissart

Sat, 12 Jan 2013 21:41:01 GMT

Dearest Sister,

Was quite pleased to receive your letter of last week; forgive the delay in answering but no matter the day or time set aside this week to reply, some other, more pressing business intruded.

To begin, then: Glad you and Étienne enjoyed your holiday in Morocco. The ability to travel the world is one luxury we quite look forward to indulging again. But as you correctly point out, those hopes have taken a step backward recently.

Not sure exactly what you expect of me, however. Our diplomatic endeavours do not seem to have had much result. And if your husband's aspirations, as you report, do not seem to lie in politics to the extent you believed before marrying, then, my dear, it would seem it is you who must take a choice. You may either attempt to change his leanings and shape his ambitions back in the direction you think more advantageous to you both or you must reconcile yourself to his revised plan.

Given the news you had to share, you do have at least one more reason to press for an improvement to your circumstances and his ability to support your growing family.

(About that, at least, Narcissa and I could not be happier for you! Though Narcissa warns that June and July are a miserable time for the final months (though not as bad as August). And it's just as well that your husband's obligations to Beauxbatons will be lower in the summertime, so that you may both become accustomed to the inevitable changes that will come.)

In any event, believe when we all spoke last year, Étienne considered that the path to political success led through the Headmaster's post. Surely it would follow that he has no immediate wish to abandon the school for more a more direct approach? Am disappointed that he did not use his experiences here in England to better effect, in arguing for the law to change. But not sure how my 'speaking to him' would exhort him to the sort of action you seem to wish he would undertake. If anything, the thought of his child should have led him to conclude the immediate need for the assertion of those same rights which he saw in action here.

Nonetheless, it is probable that in order to achieve true results, more negotiation is needed. Shall speak to Pontner about additional effort with the French delegation. Your husband's student has fully integrated to English life but perhaps his account is still worth some credit with the French Parliament.

For our part, we are all well. Draco is still near the top of his class (not as high as I would like but certainly at a respectable level) and continues to receive glowing reports from all his professors. He has loaded his timetable with extra-curricular pursuits, in addition to his Prefecture and the YPL responsibilities, but wisely has opted for a small, supporting rôle in an upcoming theatrical performance rather than a leading one. (Have made it clear that if his marks slip he must choose to withdraw, since I doubt he wishes to drop Quidditch, especially as Harry has assumed the Captaincy.)

Narcissa, as ever, dazzles the entire country with her perfection. Her editor approached me before the holidays with a request for a new venture. Sponsored by Witch Weekly, she is to design a new line of foundations which will be sold to witches in intimate trunk shows in the home. She is delighted, particularly as it provides the benefits of her knowledge of fashion and attraction without requiring the exhaustive regimen of an active model. She plans to integrate a number of active-wear components for the witch who is, as she puts it, 'in need of maintenance but unwilling to sacrifice style.' Whatever that means. At any rate, she is pleased.

You'll be amused to know she decided it's high time I sat for a new portrait for the gallery. No idea when one shall find the time.

Oh, and yes: Antonin Nikolaevich has been as much like his old self as you remember. Perhaps moreso! Shall pass on to him your fondest remembrances. You could write him yourself, if you are not too shy. He remembers you and would be happy to hear from you - and no doubt would pass on an endless array of questions to compare teaching methods with those of his colleagues on the continent! (Can only wish that it were not injury which necessitated his return to British soil - for he is even more suited to teaching than he was to diplomacy, and that, my dear, is saying quite a lot.)

You mentioned that Mother has been talking of spending time in Vienna. Knowing her, there's some ulterior motive. What is it, has she said? (Suspect it's her fascination with Amelie Imberkopf's work on harmonic magic. Or has she some other reason for sudden wanderlust?) Believe you are correct and that, whatever her plans, she shall return when the time comes to welcome her new grandchild.

Well. At least you may say without fear that you shall never want for anything, regardless of whether Étienne decides to take an active interest in the political arena or remains content to shepherd young minds into the world. (Given the stabilising influence teaching seems to have had on the Razzer, the quiet life of a professor may not be so horrible a prospect - even if it is not what you bargained for long-term.) You know you have but to ask it and, if it is in my power, it shall be done.

Cannot think we shall be able to join you but if it is possible, shall endeavour. (Another item for Pontner to consider!) Meanwhile, warm regards to all, provided that you keep for yourself a large portion of affection from,

Your loving Brother,

Lucius

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Private Message to Narcissa

Sat, 22 Dec 2012 01:34:23 GMT

Dearest,

Don't settle in just yet. I've spoken with Fudge, Mafalda and Claudius regarding the statements to the press, and conferred with Dominic before he was released from St M's. Still discussing with Stephen what we may need of the Finnigan lad.

Have just paid a call on the Weasley clan - the entirety of it, or what is left of it. They're waiting to remove his remains for a vigil. Say what we will of your cousin, at least she observes some of the proper ways.

However, as I mentioned at the ~~bomb~~ party site, Our Lord was (understandably) most wroth and intended to summon us all to Him before the end of the evening. Have just heard from Claudius that He means to convene the full Court. Not sure what it bodes. But be ready, my love.

It would be a gross miscalculation to displease Him tonight.

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Private Message to Barty and Claudius

Fri, 21 Dec 2012 22:04:54 GMT

Anything yet?

He's away, though His last comment was that He plans to summon us all once the scene here has been contained.

Narcissa has helpfully assembled the spouses and they are handing round tea. Kindle, Haley, Sanditon and their lot are beginning the interviews as quickly as possible.

Dominic's with the Healers but someone ought to be dispatched to St Mungo's with the family, perhaps. The ones who are here, that is.

Rowle's already rounded up the work detail (and another work detail besides) for Swift Retribution.

And I need to speak to Stephen as soon as possible, if you see him.

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Private Message to Narcissa and Draco

Sat, 03 Nov 2012 13:59:25 GMT

Dearest, have arrived safely. Bella, Barty, Dominic and other friends all well and quite invigorated by the country air. Cannot remember the last time boxty was served at breakfast; quite the variation to energise and fortify. Not clear at present when we shall have another opportunity to write.

Draco, good luck and swift flight to-day. Am most disappointed that I shall not be able to attend. Hope that your mother shall go on her own, in order to see you and to explain further. Suffice to say that we - that is to say, many of the Council - have been called to action to protect the realm from a group apparently larger than the DogStar but far less effective.

Nothing to worry about, either of you. Pray tell Pansy only that it is unavoidable business which prevents my travel to Hogwarts. Narcissa, shall try to arrange a fire chat sometime in the next day or two, if security measures will allow.

Until our next meeting, dear ones, can only leave you with all my love and I remain,

Yours

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Private Message to Draco

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 02:36:43 GMT

Son,

No need to reply unless you feel like it. Am giving someone a lesson in patience.

However, occurred to me that we have not discussed your mother's birthday. You may be sure that this year's anniversary is giving her more difficulty than she would care to admit. More than her usual reluctance, that is. Hope whatever you have been considering is discreet.

Believe that I have found the solution on my part, though timing is, always, an issue. Your upcoming match is 3^rd November, which is just possible on the heels of Our Lord's birthday celebrations but perilously close to Bonfire Night, which the last few years has been tumultuous.

Have decided, therefore, that the following week-end we shall visit Castle Rushen on the Isle of Man. Telling you mainly because my goal shall be to minimise our distraction on the trip, to the point of forgoing journal communication (if at all possible, limiting it to no more than an hour a day or so if not possible to leave it aside altogether).

That by itself is hardly remarkable as we have tended to take time alone, if not at her birthday or mine, then certainly on our anniversary. Expect she will decide I am being unoriginal, which is part of the plan. For the secluded week-end is merely the backdrop to present her with her real gift, which is a 20-ft brigantine to sail us back to Lancaster, where she'll winter (unless your mother wishes to sail her elsewhere). But confess that I have been unable to hit upon the right name for the vessel. Had thought of the Amaryllis, the Cassiopeia, even the Regulus but of course that is not a name to be used lightly. Suppose the best option is to leave her unchristened and let your mother do the honours.

On another topic entirely, you have not heard any rumblings of students taking it into their heads to attempt anything like Razzer's and Antosha's display on Saturday? Do discourage it; you know as well as anyone how dangerous it could be without the proper precautions.

Well. It's been long enough now to answer her. Except to say that I hope you are otherwise well and should you wish to discuss any topic at all, know that I am, as always, at your service.

Forgive the intrusion from your affectionate

Father

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Private Message to Virgil Crispin

Thu, 04 Oct 2012 01:21:59 GMT

Your message's timing could not have been better. Cannot abide Madama Butterfly but it's one of Narcissa's favourites (though will say it is diverting to see the interpretation of a muggleborn Butterfly). Perfect excuse to step outside to the bar.

Yes, see no reason to cancel lunch on the 15^th (my apologies, again, for last month). But in advance of our meeting, would be most grateful if you could look into the deed history and provenance on several addresses obtained from Miss Blishwick - she continues to be an excellent source of information, if nothing yet has led to concrete evidence against Maule. Am forwarding an owl with the pertinent locations.

Regarding Saturday's invitation from Fleet, unfortunately, have had additional conflict arise and must decline. Do your best to assure him it is as much business as pleasure. Could send Weasley if you think some representation necessary, however, trust you to provide much better account of my absence than his presence would bring about.

Speaking of Weasley, you may wish to counsel him on his current ... domestic arrangement. He has been somewhat distracted by it of late. Confess that I had my doubts, for all that I supported his removal from that hovel his parents call a home. New London agrees with him; his particular living arrangements, I fear, may not. Have not wished to pry, as you know I pride myself on allowing him, as you, freedom to make decisions fitting an adult who needs no one to tell him what is best. However, the question of balance is, always, one we must wrestle at all times.

Pleased you found the introduction to Glozeman useful. He is a particular friend of Glendower's (the elder); see if you can parlay the one to bring you near the other. While the son is an utter fool, the father has ... protections ... which may prove valuable in time. (And of course, anything they can be brought to say about Strangeweale or Caldwell - particularly as it relates to whatever Dolores' plans are - would be most appreciated.)

By the way. Heard from Ned that you have been by his desk more than once to see if Barty has given him extra tickets to Puddlemere that he can't use; don't know if I mentioned that Cuthbert continues to send tickets on a regular basis and Weasley has little interest. Feel free to contact him if you're of a mind to go and Ned is not forthcoming.

As for Antonin Nikolaevich, rest assured, when the opportunity arises, shall arrange introduction. His time in New London is currently extremely limited, but even if there is no prior engagement which affords the occasion, he'll naturally attend our Christmas party, so it will come about, sooner or later.

Trust otherwise you are keeping well and look forward to seeing you, particularly since last month's meeting was irretrievably jostled.

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Items Following Court

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 21:34:14 GMT

Too many for private messages.

Hogwarts: Minerva, since you have been incapable of bringing to the Board of Governors an acceptable candidate to undertake instruction in Dark Arts, Our Lord has seen fit to resolve the vacancy on your behalf. Understand that he shall present his credentials and portfolio to you this week; note that there are other changes to the timetable which Our Lord deems appropriate (and half the Governors have already concurred), which must be accommodated before start of term. Trust you will see to the letters and revised book lists for the students.

NRBC: Cumulus, have reviewed the statement of accounts from Monday's meeting and find it unfathomable that additional savings cannot be achieved. Presume this is down to your commitment to avoid staff cuts; advise you and your brother to re-evaluate said position.

Weasley: There are three manuscripts from Charles here. Two of them irrelevant; third can be taken to the address affixed. Suspect the recipient will welcome the chance to review the material and provide his notes on the subject. Would appreciate if you delivered it to-night or to-morrow, if you please. Also note the addendum to Monday's schedule regarding the inspection of the Battersea Park project. Finally, require the revisions to the Commerce Committee's minutes before end of day. MacMillan's clerk was supposed to send them over. Kindly track them down, will you; I'd like to sign off before leaving.

LB: Expect an owl from me. Sending you some reading for your time at Gloss. Trust it will make the days pass more pleasantly.

Narcissa: Trust you are settled? Did not hear from you this morning. Did hear from Yvaine, hoping to find you. Told her 'holiday' meant you were likely not tied to your journal. (Seem to recall something about not carrying them everywhere this holiday; that was the plan, was it not?) Heard from a few others as well, all hoping for your opinion about something. You might wish to contact Miss Poddington as it seems she received a handful of messages as well.

Oh, and Weasley, come in when you have a moment; there are some other matters to attend arising from Court, which cannot be entrusted to the journal.

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Long Day

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 04:30:34 GMT

Muggleborn Labour Committee this morning. Is it my imagination or has that collection of industrious camp administrators grown even more tedious than ever? No end of excuses for the low productivity reports but very little in the way of solutions - at least, on their part. Daresay the Committee had a number of suggestions all of which would not only bring up the tallies but doubtless put a stop to any further disturbances.

At least Hertfordshire and Sussex are not deterred; their numbers were better than any other three counties combined. Clearly the wizardfolk are not about to listen to nonsense concerning the Cup or the muggleborn 'influence' over the Dogstar. Rot. They are just as suitable as ever for their usual employ.

As for Dogstar, well, they may have a knack for recruiting fools but clearly no instinct at all for strategies that actually work. Thus far, MLE have uncovered every one of their grand schemes and caught more than a few of the 'masterminds' responsible. Anyone can see they need to recruit, actively, because they keep losing their misguided members to Our Lord's illustrious chosen.

Nonetheless, reminded the camps of their duty to keep their charges occupied and contributory - and reminded them, too, of the consequences of failure.

At the behest of the Healers I am still not meant to resume my regular routine on the duelling courses. So naturally, under no circumstances did I go. Utterly ridiculous restriction; one need not raise one's voice to aim hexes and otherwise I am fully recovered.

However, did take tea with Ari, which seems like the first time since mid-summer's that he and I were both available. He has been busy preparing for the Wizengamot Executive Session - understand from him that Hooper's case is to be arraigned this month in order to speed the trial - and now that Ptolemy has finished school, he is assisting his father in matters pertaining to the private practice. Spoke also about his hesitation to allow Ptolemy to betroth himself. Concur, though I do believe his motives show the caution of a reactionary rather than the sagacity of the experienced. Cannot blame him, of course; merely could not resist pointing out that his son's prospects are vastly different, given the relative peace which we now enjoy compared to the tumult at the height of the war. Still, if they are truly committed, they will remain so at the end of a year's separation - and there's no rush, in any event, for either of them.

Social calendar remains, as ever, overflowing with choices, too many to possibly accept. Have asked whether Amanda might like to take on a role or two within a few of the circles, especially those societies which were particular favourites of Mother's. Do not intend she should sit idle in Mellerstain House for eight months with only her husband's visits to bring her cheer! She has consented but is relying on Narcissa (as do I!) for much of her knowledge of the set. Journals only reveal so much, of course, and it is excessively difficult to guess whether all the old associations still hold true. Confident Narcissa may help her navigate without a qualm.

Draco, Harry, Pansy, Hydra: Glad to hear you are all off to promising starts for the term. Do recall that your studies are only going to demand more attention as they progress in difficulty and that the time you fill now shall be much-needed next year when your O.W.L.s will require your diligence. You may think losing Quidditch a hardship but not, I trust, one that will overset you for long, not compared with the prospects ahead.

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Private Message to Percy Weasley

Sun, 04 Sep 2011 03:32:32 GMT

These restrictions placed by Fletcher are ridiculous. I'm fine. Though the business of writing all communication is damned inconvenient. Shall need you to attend meetings along with me for next week; possibly two if I allow Fletcher his caution.

Meanwhile, see no reason not to re-commence business as usual after the week-end. Only leave Monday afternoon open since Mrs Malfoy will be taking Draco back up to school and returning. (Need to be back at the Manor before her Witch Weekly commitment has been met for the day.)

So. First things first: Have you contacted Rousseau's office since the Cup? Shall need to ensure that nothing about the incident has affected plans for Hogwarts. Suspect Selwyn has thought of it already but sure he has not had time to address it with Pontner; can only hope that Pontner exhibited some intuition regarding the need for action. Would be advantageous to take the initiative there as soon as possible. Same for the Bulgarians, though Pontner has been taking the lead there all along, so presumably he has already assuaged any misgivings they might have in light of the incident.

On that note, Bartley and Runcorn can wait. Push them out to mid-month.

Instead need Cuffe - first thing Monday. And bring the report on the casualties from the Harrogate camp reprisals (are they calling that the 29^th or was it 30^th by the time the demonstrators left the arena? No-one has told me). Want him here before MLE's press gaggle at ten o'clock.

Also Clarriker: Have the books ready. Wish to instruct him to increase the percentage of imports tithed to Buckingham by 10% - half of which ought to come from his portion, of course. He'll object; we shall impress upon him the importance of Our Lord's continued good favour; he'll capitulate. Tuesday would be acceptable if he cannot come Monday morning.

Blast. Reminds me: Thursday was first of the month. Need to go over the accounts to-morrow, then. Come to the Manor ... after tea will do. Should take no more than an hour or two.

Mrs Malfoy mentioned you had to answer for one or two rather insistent (and inventive) would-be visitors who slipped through our outer protections before someone discovered their presence. Kindly provide a list of the names. Trust that neither Hooper parent was among the invasive ones; of course, were there any of a suspicious nature, it would be prudent to inform Zuckerman immediately.

Speaking of which, understand that the younger Runge presented him-self to Our Lord at yesterday's Court. No need to guess why. Contact him but not before Wednesday noon and arrange tea at the Elysian or the Ouroboros sometime in the next ~~week~~ month.

Finally, seem to recall that we had agreed to host a supper at Ouroboros for new members. Check the diary. Think it may have been 17^th September. See if Yaxley will take it on; if not him (though it would be wise for him with MLE's upcoming announcement), then try Avery or barring him, Mulciber. Any of them ought to be attending, at any rate. Merely a matter of acting as master of ceremonies.

Sure there will be more by to-morrow. Already forgetting something.

Ah, yes. Mme Froissart's accommodations. Munroe's written to say he's had a change of heart and he'll vacate Mellerstain. However. In light of recent events, my sister feels it makes no sense to return to France in the interim. (Some plot she and Mrs Malfoy have concocted, I assume, to plague me with nursemaids over the next three weeks.) As a result, she would like to take residence at the end of September instead of the end of October. Have drafted an agreement for him to consider which you may deliver after we're done here in the afternoon.

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Private Message to Percy Weasley

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 12:33:27 GMT

Cancel morning appointments.

Blast - is Cuthbert on at eleven? ~~Keep~~ No, cancel that as well. Monday will do.

However. Need to see Bole and Cuffe before Court to-day.

First: Find the file on Maule's operations in New London - and the properties in Launceton. Crouch needs them at MLE postehaste.

Oh, and Mrs Malfoy asked me to confirm Fudge, Thicknesse, Rookwood and Rowle for to-night. See to that at some point, if you please.

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Private Message to Barty Crouch, Jr. and Maximus Truncheon

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 23:52:46 GMT

Have seen Narcissa home. Thank you again for notifying me so we could come in for the briefing. Max, shall be back in an hour or two to revisit the remainder of the ... testimony.

Shall inform Caesar that his protection detail can move on as of the week-end. For now they've been told to keep themselves to the guest quarters unless she is going out of the house. Know that Narcissa would rather discharge them immediately but think it best to wait until the news has broken to-morrow.

Speaking of which, presume Selwyn has the conversation with Bole well in hand.

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