Well, thank Merlin for that. Or rather, thank you for the cigarettes. We must keep indulging each other’s vices this way.

An owl is a very good idea – the feathers would have a nice effect. I have half a mind to decorate that red capelet I promised to obtain with feathers, and transform myself into a phoenix for Halloween. My father is not much interested in costume parties, but he is a magizoologist, so if he approved of any costume it would be that.

I never asked you, I don’t think – do you have a career, or do you not work and that is why you are so prone to boredom? (Please be sure I do not ask after you as a potential prospect – my mind is far as from marriage as it is from your finances. I only ask to be entertained.)

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