May 6th, 1895

Darby,

I do hope you don't mind me writing, but I found myself in need of some... outside perspective on a situation that has arisen. I'm afraid of what my family and friends will say if I ask for their thoughts and though, I suppose in some weird way we are friends, it is not exactly the same. Please don't take that personally, I'm all mixed up and out of sorts, but I do want your advice.

I have been offered a position on a magizoology expedition— to South Africa. I would relish in the opportunity to go, but I fear everyone around me will say it is a bad idea. Hogsmeade has grown uncomfortable for me in the last year of being me again and I want to take this chance while I can to get out and do something meaningful. Something just for me.

Do you think it is worth it?

Best,
S. Bixby

Aubrey Davis

  

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7th May, 1895

Miss S. Biscuits Bixby,

No offence taken, Miss. I don’t get often asked for advice, strictly speaking, so I suppose you could say I’m honoured, anyway.

Can’t say I know much about South Africa – or any Africa – but if it’s thanks to your your magizoology skills, it’s an exciting opportunity, I’m sure. (Besides, if you can handle the most violent of hedgehogs, you can probably handle any wild African beasts you might find.)

Is it because it’s dangerous and you’d be off by yourself somewhere far away, that you think your people think it’ll be a bad idea? Or is there something else you worry they’ll say? They oughtn’t forget you were a Gryffindor – you ought to be brave. (Unless there’s nothing in Africa you want to see, and it’s just getting away from Hogsmeade you want. That’s a long way to go if all you’re really interested in is running away.)

Your friend, in whatever weird way you please,
A. Davis

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Formerly known as Davis, Elijah Urquart's pet hedgehog.