Narcissa Malfoy

I've just been hearing about the Erewash incident - the unvarnished account, one might say - and found it curious that you've not been in touch to assure me you're all right. You are, I trust? Surely someone would have told me otherwise.

Then again, it seems the only times I hear from anyone lately are when my loved ones issue dire warnings not to approach Our Lord under any circumstances. Ptolemy invited me to dine with him and Karo at the weekend and I was treated to quite the lecture. Really, as if I needed the telling, given His obvious mood at His birthday remembrance and - other events of late. Nonetheless, it can't go on much longer, if Lucius is to be expected to put right everything going horribly wrong in New London. I fear the Minister can't make many more excuses, or so I hear.

In any event, promise me you shan't lecture if you join me for supper? Friday?

It's terribly dull here, you know, now the leaves are down but before a proper snow. Do say you'll come and liven things up.

Do you realise what you've done? What has happened because of this foolishness?

We're about to bury your uncle and your Father has agreed to follow him into the grave if you don't come home.

We've one chance to repair this - this disaster. Come home, Draco. If you really left on your own then COME HOME. Right this instant. Tell us everything, anything that will help your auntie and we can all be together again as a family.

Darling, Mother's heard all about the things that horrid little monster did to you, corrupting you, turning you to sympathise with her. It's not your fault, dearest. You're young and impressionable and it's not the first time something like this has happened.

But to run away under these circumstances is treason, Draco. Haven't we taught you better than that?

Please. Darling, I can't lose you and your Father both. Not like this. You've got to be strong, my son, and fight whatever it is that she's done to - to enthrall you. If Snape's told you lies, don't believe them.

Just come home. Lie to them if you have to, to let you go, or make your escape, and come back to us and then all will be forgiven.

Mother loves you so much.

You can't allow your Father to die, Draco, you simply - can't. No son of mine would do that.

And a very happy birthday to Harry Marvolo, as well!

I noticed this morning that people are already lining up along the parade route, choosing just the right spot for their viewing. Personally, I find that some of the balconies on the Victoria Embankment offer many of the best opportunities, if one can gain access.

Our Lord's viewing stands, of course, have been prepared since last night. Nicola and Gabriel just have a few last-minute touches this morning and then they shall be dividing their time between overseeing the parade itself and the celebrations at Buckingham afterward.

The real treat shall be this evening's firework display and the lights along the river. I hope everyone has a chance to enjoy our Shakespearian idyll.

As for the performances, I'm told we've a number of treats in store and I cannot wait to discover them.

We have such a lot to celebrate, with Our Lord's leadership and grace. His vision of a free and powerful wizarding nation has never been more clearly realised, particularly in light of the 2 or 3 notable accomplishments this year which assure us, as ever, that His puissance will triumph over any wrong-headed attempts to tear down what He has wrought. I have never been more proud to call myself a Witch of the Protectorate.

Isobel, have yours returned home yet? Lucius had estimated he'd be done yesterday morning but it was closer to seven in the evening before he emerged from the Ministry.

Meanwhile, I've heard from more than one source that your Lana conducted herself quite well in this entire affair. In fact, I've been to Buckingham this morning along with Lucius to discuss appropriate recognition of the contributions of several key Aurors, your daughter among them.

It's been decided that a ceremony on Saturday evening would be the best opportunity to present their commendations. Nicola, would that give you and Gabriel sufficient time to prepare? Isobel, I was hoping you'd speak to Inigo about assisting with the supply for the reception to follow that night.

Our Lord wishes as well to extend generosity to the loyal citizens who have endured in the face of the Dogstar's perfidy. Nicola, I'm sure you have ideas for some sort of impromptu carnival - perhaps as simple as complimentary refreshments at several stations along the Thames? Well, you'll think of something astonishing, you always do.

I've got to run for now but shall we get together tomorrow to discuss the matter in more detail? I can have Mariposa reserve a room at Alhambra so we can plan in peace and privacy. Isobel, do say you'll join us?