(no subject)

[alt_narcissa]

The year is already off to a fine start, with the Twelfth Night revels ending the season in excellent form. I hear there are plans for one more celebration at the close of Black's public viewing; I suspect this has been such a festive year, all things considered, that no one really wishes the party to end.

For myself, I am rather looking forward to some peace and quiet for a while, although the girls have asked if we might resume our card parties now that I am not visiting Revati's studio every other week. I see no reason not to continue; after all, they are the most informal affairs one could imagine. We agreed to take hostessing in turns, as well. Beginning with Ygraine on Wednesday, do I have that right?

Aleta, I am thinking about the committee but I'm not sure I can really take it on at this time. I've been feeling sadly neglectful of my obligations to the Sisters in Witchcraft as it is; I doubt I could do justice to yet another undertaking at present.

Draco, have a good term, darling. I must admit it seemed strange this morning that we did not need to take you to the train, when so many others are going. But then, last year was much the same, and Easter holidays last term as well. I do hope by this Easter you and Harry are able to come home for a proper visit.

Harry, we heard about your curious Christmas present. I'm sure Professor Lestrange and Mr Malfoy between them will reach the bottom of the matter. Whether you have obtained a fine broom out of someone's generosity or a twisted kind of malice, the broom is if nothing else a vital clue. If it proves safe, you'll be able to fly it soon enough. And if not, we'll replace it with one that is guaranteed to be pristine.

Oh, and Miss Parkinson, I shall be sending an owl of introduction on your behalf to several of the people we discussed. I'm sure many of them are already familiar with your mother's portfolio but will be happy to make appropriate adjustments.

Comments

[alt_pansy]

Thank you, Aunt Narcissa. I really appreciate all your help.

[alt_narcissa]

You're quite welcome, dear. Of course, as I said and I know your Uncle Lucius has told you, there's no need to go overboard just now. Pick one or two, set up a nominal level of gift and let Mr Baddock take care of it for you. There will be plenty of time later to assume more control of your affairs. Don't think because Lucius was managing the family's estate by the time he was only a year or two older than you that you need to take it all on at once.

[alt_crouch_jr]

You're quite right that people have slackened into an expectation that every day should be a holiday, when, of course, holidays are only valuable when scarce and long anticipated.

I agree: January's return to simple pleasures and intimate gatherings is most welcome. Not to mention the return to discipline and routine. And, of course, one feels the urgency of things put off during the festive fortnight.

[alt_narcissa]

We have had rather a lot to celebrate this year, you'll agree. But it's true that much remains unfinished and it's just at the point where one lets down one's guard that everything we've worked for could collapse.

Still there are always events and holidays to look forward to in the coming weeks. Have you started thinking about Valentine's yet? Or is that looking too far in the future?

[alt_crouch_jr]

Valentine's?

Well. I admit I've given it a moment's thought. Or two. And I might have done even if I hadn't been prompted to it by Mother's pressing me to serve on some committee for a fundraising gala. Something about infants with heart difficulties.

[alt_narcissa]

Oh, dear, I hadn't realised that Eudora would target your mother, though I should have suspected as much. I do believe she had Mother in her sights as well and was less successful. But then, Mother has always had particular skill at busying herself with a balance of personal and charitable pursuits. It's not surprising that Norah feels she has to put a greater hand in; I hope she doesn't find the burden too heavy. Presumably that's why she requires your support?

If you're destined to be roped in, will-you, nil-you, then it's all the more important that you plan ahead. You've only four weeks and after the attention you paid to the Christmas season, it would never do to fall short so quickly.

Though perhaps the committee is something better suited to Ned? Lucius says he has a head for logistics and finance. I assume that's what they've asked you to do and not head up the decorations (though I'd pay good Galleons to see that!).