I have learned the reason for Crispin's inattention to his duties of late. He has been securing another position for himself and intends to leave my service. Leaving!

Too stunned at present to offer a coherent précis of our morning's discussion. Five years and this is how he chooses to tender a resignation? Without even enlisting my approval or assistance in the matter? Skulking about in secret conversations and enlisting the complicity of his prospective employer to keep his activities from me. Oh, he claims to have tried to 'find the right moment' to tell me but instead he has waited until the last possible moment - not even two weeks until his new position begins!

Needless to say the news has resulted in chaos on my end; in a way, he is fortunate that I shall be keeping my course time at the Elysian. He is lucky I did not elect instead to practise cursework on him!

Damn Crouch for snatching up Ned. Where shall I find another competent aide?

I am sorry, my dear. I did not mean to leave you waiting - but as you can see I have been ... confounded by this revelation. It is beyond vexing!