Madam Sykes

Would it be ill-advised to commit murder if the victim was from my family rather than someone else's? I would hate to cause someone the pain of losing a loved one, but I think Camille and I would thrive without them. I haven't been able to leave the house since I returned home, and my step-mother confiscated my wand when she saw me simply polishing it.

If they were to die suddenly, what are the odds that you would come and take me away?

Fondly,
Holly Scrimgeour

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Miss Scrimgeour

It would be remiss of me not to begin with a chastisement. You really oughtn’t write such things about your step-mother, no matter how much she vexes you and yes, I know that is quite a lot. Your summer letters do contain an awful lot of references to murder Holly.

Were you just polishing your wand? If so I would agree it was grossly unfair but were you perchance also practicing some intonation? I have seen you doing it in the common room and while your fellow students know that you will not – generally – actually cast a hex your step-mother might have a different view on the matter.

Please behave yourself and perhaps try revising potion ingredients in the meantime.

Yours,
C. Sykes

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Madam Sykes,

Fortunately for my step-mother and my reputation, I have no wand to commit any atrocities. I know it may make me sound like a horrible person, but I would rather trade places with my destitute cousin for the summer than stay trapped at home. I know I am not a very likable person, but it pains me to know that my family seems to dislike me more than anyone.

And I was just polishing my wand, I swear! It is not my fault my step-mother acts as if the mere sight of my wand is a threat against her.

I want to go back to school.

Fondly,
Holly Scrimgeour

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