Pleased at the noticeable change that had come over Mr. Waterford, Basil resisted the urge to smile. He knew scaring the other or irritating him by seeming patronizing would only undo the good that was being done. Instead, he waited as the silence stretched and the young boy considered his question. The professor was glad he was taking this as seriously as he seemed to be; it was important for incoming students to realize that it was a privilege to attend Hogwarts, not just a given. Smile finally breaking as the other nodded and gave his affirmation, Basil was pleased. “Well then,” he replied. “I look forward to seeing you through the Sorting Ceremony in September.” Basil offered the other his hand to shake as a parting gesture. “And Mr. Waterford,” he added. “I advise you keep your nose out of trouble until then.”