Left neatly folded on the table in his bedroom, where a servant would be sure to find it. Addressed "To Lucius Lestrange - In the event of my death or incapacitation."
27 February 1889
Dear Uncle,
I apologize for not discussing these matters in person; I have been waiting weeks for a lightning storm and could not risk missing my chance now by delaying even an hour.
I failed to perform the animagus transformation in October. It was unexpectedly painful, and I may have aborted the attempt prematurely. I am making a second attempt today and will not make the same mistake. I intend to complete the transformation, or die trying. I understand there is a not insignificant chance that instead of either of these ends I may become permanently crippled, or otherwise burdensome; in that case I trust that you will find a way to end my life with as much dignity as possible.
My wife will most likely be absent at the time you read this. She has not been included in my will and, more importantly, is not a fit guardian for our child. I should prefer that the girl be taken in to your house and raised alongside Cicero, if you would do me that kindness.
My financial estate I leave in your capable hands. I would prefer the house be gifted to Cicero when he is of age; Claudius would have no need of it and Cassius seems unlikely to make good use of it. My most valuable possessions are the books collected in the study, as well as the research I have added to them since. The room is magically secured, but I am leaving the sole key in the bottom left drawer of my wardrobe for your use should you want to look into anything.
I have always regarded you with the utmost respect and will forever be grateful for the guidance you provided during my childhood. If you will do me one final kindness, I would prefer the public story regarding my death not center on my failure here. Make up whatever story suits you.
Thank you.
Tiberius
I apologize for not discussing these matters in person; I have been waiting weeks for a lightning storm and could not risk missing my chance now by delaying even an hour.
I failed to perform the animagus transformation in October. It was unexpectedly painful, and I may have aborted the attempt prematurely. I am making a second attempt today and will not make the same mistake. I intend to complete the transformation, or die trying. I understand there is a not insignificant chance that instead of either of these ends I may become permanently crippled, or otherwise burdensome; in that case I trust that you will find a way to end my life with as much dignity as possible.
My wife will most likely be absent at the time you read this. She has not been included in my will and, more importantly, is not a fit guardian for our child. I should prefer that the girl be taken in to your house and raised alongside Cicero, if you would do me that kindness.
My financial estate I leave in your capable hands. I would prefer the house be gifted to Cicero when he is of age; Claudius would have no need of it and Cassius seems unlikely to make good use of it. My most valuable possessions are the books collected in the study, as well as the research I have added to them since. The room is magically secured, but I am leaving the sole key in the bottom left drawer of my wardrobe for your use should you want to look into anything.
I have always regarded you with the utmost respect and will forever be grateful for the guidance you provided during my childhood. If you will do me one final kindness, I would prefer the public story regarding my death not center on my failure here. Make up whatever story suits you.
Thank you.