Narcissa Malfoy

Aurora,

Has Raz sent you an owl? I've not seen him post. Really, he'll have to be trained to keep you notified.

I've heard from Lucius: They're all fine. Ours, at least.

Minister Fudge is going to speak in a few minutes, so I can't linger but - well, I wondered whether no one had told you.

Dearest son,

What's happened? No, he did not ask me to write. Are you well, other than quarrelling with your father?

I suppose you are already pouring your heart out to Harry or some other good friend but - well, Mother's here, if you want to talk about it.

Your birthday present should be arriving sometime within the next six hours, depending on how far from New London you are hiding, dear.

And don't worry, I've used the most ordinary, common post owl I could find.

Now, it comes with a condition. You absolutely must write and tell me what deliciously intimate thing Miss Greengrass has sent you. If she has not bothered to discover and remember your birthday, I shall be highly dubious as to the abiding nature of her obsession.

The other condition you'll see when you get the letter.

I hope you're well.

Chloe wants to dance, Dom.

Really. You are hardly better than those teenage boys in the corner.

Dearest June,

First, please allow me to convey my heartfelt sympathies regarding the incident at Hogwarts over the weekend. As one mother to another, I know you must be in agony over young Cassandra's behaviour and its consequences. It is no easy thing for a mother to stand idly by whilst her child is made to endure such a punishment. But I'm sure you and she will brave the ordeal and I trust she has gained a powerful, if painful, lesson.

Now, I'll not waste either of our time by dancing 'round the topic: I was reviewing the guest list with my assistant and saw that you and Archemachus had replied before the events of the last few days. Under the circumstances, June, I think you'll agree that it might be more comfortable for all of us were you and Archie to forego the party on Friday. Letitia and Troy as well, if you don't mind. After all, not only will Razzer be there but Professor Sinistra is to be his particular guest, which is a development we are all happy to encourage. And ordinarily I would say come and be welcome and simply try not to mix but with my theme this year I'm afraid that might be rather more difficult than expected. Besides, you've often mentioned Archie's back troubles and I'm afraid he will find the seating this year entirely inadequate. I do so hate to see anyone in discomfort at one of my parties.

Please don't think this indicates any sort of cooling between the Malfoys and the Calderwoods; you know I hold you and your mother before you in high regard. I do so look forward to the WI programme in January and your input as to 'Witch of the Year' is simply invaluable. I hope you can find time to lunch with me and Mother after the New Year, as well. She'll want to hear all about your new cottage in the Cotswolds. Sheep, you're raising there? How very practical.

Well, you'll have to tell us how you're managing the muggles on the farm when next we meet. Which will be soon, I do hope.

Please accept our apologies and I'm sure next time we've a gathering, there will be no question of awkwardness.

Yours Affectionately,

Narcissa C.B. Malfoy