10th July 2010

Alex,

As we have received no official news of disaster on the South China Sea, I can only assume that you have been on your best behaviour throughout the trip. Congratulations.

Mrs Lanningham has asked me to enclose another pair of socks. There is also a tin of tea you might enjoy: it is from an Australian reservation and I've not yet tried it myself. The Dragonologists there prize their drink for its cooling properties. They may or may not recommend taking it with a dram of bourbon.

Should you come across any riveting creatures, please flee. I would very much like my goddaughter back in one piece.


Not Worried In The Least,

June 13th

Dear Balfour,

It is good to know that you are not worrying unduly. Thus far, the only incident of note has been the ship capsizing. Sadly, all students reappeared, unscathed in any meaningful sense of the word. I would be surprised if we lasted the entire journey without anyone being thrown overboard, but thus far nobody has broken. Alas, I can but hope.

Please tell Mrs Lanningham that her gift is much appreciated, as, of course, is your own. I will bring gifts on my return, but as the owl was hardly in peak health when it reached me, I would rather wait until I can deliver them in person.

I will, of course, endeavour to return alive and well, presents in hand, but if I am riveted I can hardly flee.

Do you have any advice as to the care of water buffalo? I trust you are well?

Yours affectionately,

Alex

15th July 2010

Alex.

If you are doing as I suspect and returning to our shores with a water buffalo in your keep, then might I advise you transfigure it into a manageable size? I have enclosed a pamphlet regarding the care of shrunken water buffalo.

How Mrs Lanningham discovered such a pamphlet and why it exists at all is still a matter under investigation.

Nothing particularly eventful has occurred since last I wrote. The dragons are unfortunately still ill and there is only so much firewhiskey in the wizarding world to make me forget. We are coping best as we can. I have been to visit other specialists in Australia and east Europe.

Do take care. You will be almost home by the time this reaches.


P.S. I'm happy to read that the capsizing of the ship has not dampened your sense of humour.


Sober while writing this,

July 18th

Balfour,

The water buffalo is, happily, not my responsibility – Virgil made a misinformed purchase. Nevertheless, I am grateful for the advice, as is Virgil. I remain in Mrs Lanningham’s debt, and astounded at her ability to locate information.

Firewhiskey is not an effective aid to amnesia, unless it renders you catatonic. This does neither you nor the dragons any good.

In more pleasant news, Rick finally succumbed to temptation. Connor Todd was thrown overboard, which did nothing to dampen his spirit. The reverse, if possible, is true. Unfortunately, he was rescued by an attractive man, and will not shut up about it.

I am all but homeward bound, and while the trip has certainly been enjoyable, no longer being in a confined space with other students will be greatly appreciated. I will be in England by the time I receive a response, with the gifts as promised. Would you like to meet? I will be spending much of my time in Diagon Alley.

It's been too long,

Alex

21st July 2010

Dear Alex,

I was glad to hear that you returned home safely. Do tell Virgil that he is welcome to be in touch about appropriate lodgings for his purchase. There is a wizard in Cornwall who seems particularly keen on such livestock.

Might we go for ice-cream, at the usual? There may be good news to tell about the dragons.


Until then,

July 18th

Balfour,

People’s passions never cease to amaze me. I have passed the information to Virgil to do with as he wishes.

Ice cream is always appreciated. Does the 28th suit you? I have other news, but it is not so urgent that it can’t wait to be told in person. I'll bring your present.

Perhaps if the dragons are improving you can take better care of yourself.

Alex