Lucius S Malfoy

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

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

There's a book on my blotter entitled Parchment Perfect. Is this someone's idea of a belated April Fool's jape?

Also, yes, you may take Thursday per your request. And since Narcissa and I must present ourselves at that viper's wedding reception and supper, Friday after noon ought not to present a problem.

Tell my sister I may see her Thursday next when they return to New London. If she cannot wait then I suggest she plan to come here. I cannot go rushing about the countryside to keep up with their movements.

I've an owl to Minerva that requires copying before it's sent - one for the record here, one for Dominic and a third copy for Our Lord. And yes, I'll lunch with Stephen prior to the Wireless Advisory meeting. Tell him to expect me in 10 minutes at White's.

Ah, I knew there was one other thing: Did you say that Madam Hooch called while I was out? Hm. Not to-day or to-morrow but see if you can find a spare half-hour for her on Wednesday, if you please.

I shall return shortly after two o'clock.

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.

Have been discussing Narcissa's continued quest for a holiday late this month. Shall need to be sure we have all Draco's books and such prior to the trip as there will not be time between returning and his departure for his third year (impossible as it seems to credit that he will begin third year!). I understand that she, Barty and the Razzer made great use of their four hours yesterday to evaluate three of their remaining possible sites. Had hoped to have a decision by the end of the week; doubt this will be possible given that none of the three of them were able to break away to-day for any other visits. Still. The list has been gleaned, and likely will again, before we must simply choose among the best of the bunch.


First of the month accounts have been settled; Wizarding Wireless board met on Monday with no particular news of moment. Except perhaps that there is a proposal to create a second signal with varied programming. It is felt that this will create jobs and satisfy the growing demand for additional (wider) range of programmes. Lively discussion: I do not think old Glendower has stirred himself to such animation in perhaps twenty years! Appreciate the desire to increase the market for jobs, particularly with the numbers of halfbloods who have been unable to return to work and subsequently lost their previous positions; not convinced that expanding the WWN is an appropriate response.


Received post from Amanda: back from the honeymoon and busy settling into their new home, closer to Beauxbatons. She enclosed a photograph taken at the Jiaohe Ruins near Turpan and promises Narcissa a length of silk, a ginger jar and a tea set in bone and silver, as well as carved bone haircombs 'as soon as ever they can be unearthed from the packages' and sent through the post. She does sound as though they spent a lovely time, and notes that 'Etienne collected some near-perfect early Tang scrolls which he hopes to incorporate into his lessons very soon.' Reading between the lines, it seems Mother has apparently already begun to wonder how soon she will be a grandmother again. (No need to rush, my dear sister!)


Narcissa informs me that this autumn will be as busy a season as the summer: We have received invitations to no fewer than four weddings, three engagement parties, three coming-of-age presentations, five birthday celebrations and eight anniversaries before Halloween! Clearly we shall have some difficult decisions to make as they cannot all be satisfied.


Minerva, I hear that congratulations are in order to you, as well, having made your selection of a home in town. Though perhaps 'in town' is a misnomer. Chiswick, really? And you are leaving it open to touring hours? I shouldn't wonder if you need to hire in a hit-wizard to guard your doorstep against petitioning parents wishing to bring their complaints in person. Nonetheless, I look forward to seeing you in residence from time to time. I do hope you have received the figures we discussed at the last Board of Governors' meeting. As it is the summer holiday, I should expect that the staff have had no pressing demands and have been able to fulfill the Board's request.

It's been a good week, on the whole. I suspect the highlight was yesterday, judging by the reaction (and the bouncing, practically off the ceiling), though personally I preferred the History Museum - I must admit I do not visit as often as I would like. The excuse to escort Pansy was welcome. Overall perhaps not the ideal week to add a junior clerk, as it has been anything but typical, but perhaps that is to the good, as well.

Hard to believe it's already July. First of the month accounts to-day rather than yesterday, owing to the trip to Presto with Pansy. Court this afternoon, then back here with Draco, early dinner at the Montagu and the opera. Suspect Tosca may be the only thing likely to dislodge her from endless repetitions of Magic Works. To-morrow, regrettably, we must return Pansy to her northern demesne, where I am sure she has been much missed. Perhaps none too soon, in one sense: I am sure we have all memorised the lyrics to 'Mad Bludger' by this time.

Weasley, before I forget, as soon as Warrington's office send round the usage reports for the month, kindly bring them up. And see what you can do about getting me into Selwyn's calendar on Monday. He ought to know what it regards but if he insists, it's to finalise my travel permit for the 9th. Also, I've the list for Clarriker when you are ready to fetch it. Oh, and I'll have the Gosport file if you please, as soon as you can unearth it. In future, file them by district, not county; it will make misplacing them less likely.

Following Rookwood's - admittedly - compelling demonstration earlier this week, was able to recommend to Minister Fudge that the DoM be given immediate access to field testing facilities. Requires careful co-ordination with the Department of Magical Transportation, owing the delicate nature of the equipment which must be transferred to their test locations. Unfathomably, O'Connor took it into her head to insist that the parchmentwork for portkeys could not be rushed, regardless of the circumstances. Some nonsense, I gather, about the staff shortage creating a backlog of 'urgent' requests for portkeys - and a good deal of waffle concerning the safety of the proposed destinations. Have never seen Rookwood so beside himself. Under different circumstances it could have been highly entertaining; given the very real consequences of success, however, could only agree with his sense of outrage. Had O'Connor in Cornelius' office by day's end. Confident that Augustus shall have his portkeys within a week.


Ari quite surprised me Tuesday by revealing that Reg's young friend has already interviewed and visited Kenwood for a profile on the family. He had mentioned spring, but it seems Bobolis was too eager to wait. Learning from Reg's somewhat misplaced faith, Ari insisted on an advance copy of the article in order to ensure his full approval of the story. (Bobolis has not yet delivered, however.)


Amanda, Narcissa tells me that you have settled on robes (a fact which I understand was the subject of much discussion back and forth between you). Of course I'm pleased that Froissart has secured your preferred venue. And no, I do not doubt that he will continue to endeavour to satisfy you in every way possible. As to your question regarding whether we should be able to attend: Dearest, may I remind you yet again that the excursion to France last summer was a special circumstance, and that moreover with the restrictions in place it is even less likely than ever that we will make the journey. It has nothing whatever to do with my approval or lack thereof! As you so vehemently stated on our visit, I have no dominion over your decisions - only concern that you consider with care the choices you make. Do not over-estimate my ability to move the earth for your convenience and by no means mistake my limitations for a passive objection to your plans.


Draco, I trust you have resolved the matter of obedience in your servant? We'll continue to send Valerian to you at the week-end so you can send your letters.

In response to the many inquiries regarding yesterday's incident, all is well.

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!)

A most hectic few days, but we are firmly ensconced now and beginning to establish a routine.


I declare my mother and sister have scarcely left Draco to himself with fussing over him. (Naturally, he chafes outwardly and attempts to hide that he secretly enjoys the attention.) Our arrival was met with a second sort of birthday party; Mother held off sending anything to Draco earlier in order to celebrate with all the family together.

Of the many things we have improved upon in the Protectorate, our curbing of the press has been a major triumph. They are much more forward here; it has been some time since either Narcissa or I had to contend with wizards popping photo bulbs in one's eyes.

Of course, it is to be expected, given the way in which the newspapers and wireless here have ben treating our visit. According to Amanda, there has been some sort of anticipatory story every day for the last week! One wonders whether they have any of their own news to report.

In any case, the official welcome at the French Ministérie went extremely well. If all of our itinerary goes as smoothly, we shall quite enjoy the month to come.


To-morrow we have a number of formal calls to pay and I believe Narcissa and Amanda have planned their first excursion to the wilds of the Paris shopping districts. I am not certain whether Draco can be pried away from his grandmother to go on either outing, even if he wished to do. She claims it is only the accumulation of ten years of being unable to spoil him rotten. I would say rather that it is ten years of being unable to compete (directly) with Druella.


Apart from that, Mother is virtually unchanged. A little greyer, a little more tired, but still the same. I'm pleased to see that Amanda seems much matured since last I saw her. There's something altogether grown and steady about her now, most unlike the flighty little sister I remember. Have a horrible feeling she'll fill Draco's head full of horror stories about how she ran her prefects ragged at Hogwarts. He finds trouble perfectly well on his own with no need for encouragement!


Of the Hogwarts Board of Governors' meeting Monday, the less said the better. I hope the recommendations for next term see improvement in the situation; it is in no wise appropriate to entrust young minds and bodies to the care of a staff who maintain vigilance nine months of the year, only to prove derelict during the very moment they are needed. Perhaps this year was an aberration. However, I fear that for the next several terms, Hogwarts will become a more complicated place than the administration are used to overseeing. I should hate to see those we have invested succumb to the weaknesses to which they are prey.


Well, it grows late and the delegations expect intelligent conversation to-morrow (in French, yet). Therefore to bed.

It snowed this morning in London. Looking at the street it struck me, as it always does this time of year, that without all the Muggle traffic, the streets remain clean for much longer. There is the passage of an occasional Ministry car or private vehicle, for those who do not Apparate, but by and large it looks much as it must have done in my grandfather's day.

Ari has taken the family to Cardiff for the holiday, so we were not on for tea to-day. Instead, I am free to pay a visit to Walburga to see how she is getting on with Pansy. The Minister was kind enough to send a basket of fruit - real, of course - that ought to be perfect for sharing.

Crispin printed up notes of thanks for all the others who have sent presents, here or to the Manor. More arrived this year than we can possibly use ourselves, I am afraid, particularly as so many of the boxes contain chocolates or other sweets. Gave Crispin his pick of the parcels for his nephews, in fact. (I wonder that Dolores' basket did not contain chocolate packets and biscuits - usually it does. Somehow I detect Miss Robins' hand in that.)

Packages from Amanda and Mother arrived through the Ministry channels to-day, as well. Their gifts went out ages ago, but Amanda only wrote last week to say they had received them.

Only one meeting to-morrow, thank Merlin, and then Narcissa and I shall take Draco to Buckingham. Afterward, we intend to make the most of a Christmas Eve with no one else in the house!