Penelope Clearwater

Dear Mr and Mrs Weasley,

Please allow me to express my sympathies regarding Ginny's unfortunate collapse this morning. Rest assured, the prefects are doing all we can to control the rumours, particularly anything remotely tinged with a hint of the problems of her first year.

I've gone to see her and Madam Pomfrey reports that she had contacted you by Floo earlier today. Ginny's resting comfortably, just worn clean out by her busy academic and work schedule, but there doesn't appear to be anything more sinister going on.

I also want to apologise for not being more aware of her level of exhaustion. I relied on the Gryffindor prefects to report anything egregious but of course, I take a special interest in Ginny, along with her brothers. It's regrettable that Ginny's independence has apparently led her to conceal her over-commitment from all around her. I've interviewed Honoria Sandoval, as well, knowing that they are quite friendly, and she said that she knew Ginny has been tired but had no idea that she had extended herself beyond her endurance.

However, I promise you both that now that I am familiar with her condition, I shall keep a closer watch. Luckily, Madam Pomfrey is an excellent Healer and Ginny was placed under her care within minutes of fainting.

I'm sure that you will be happy to know all three of her brothers came to visit and have behaved themselves just as you would wish in light of their sister's illness.

Again, please accept my wishes for her speedy recovery and my promise to help look after her once she is back on her feet.

Sincerely,

Penelope Clearwater

Mr Avery and I would like to officially remind you that as your Head Boy and Girl, we are here to help you with anything you might need. For many of you, it's your first time away from home. The Prefects, Mr Avery and I are prepared to assist your transition to life at school.

Particularly as we enter a year where there has been recent turmoil, we understand that many of you may feel more anxiety than usual. Let me assure you that the Hogwarts Express, and Hogwarts itself, are perfectly safe. Our Professors include some of the best-trained wizards and witches in the world, none of whom would willingly allow an outside source to harm any students in our care. If you have any concerns, please speak to a Prefect. Once at school, Madam Pomfrey, our Matron, is also at hand to address any doubts you may harbour.

A few brief announcements: On the train as in school, no running and no magic in the corridors.

Prefects, we're holding our usual meeting in the back compartments after the trolley has come through with snacks. See you there.

Best wishes for a proper start to the year.

Parkinson,

Whatever you've got to say to Weasley can wait. He's not to be disturbed.

If it's a matter of urgency, the Head Girl can help you. And if it's something for him, specifically, then you can pass it through me, if you please.

I know Professor Slughorn's message was mainly in regard to Miss Lestrange, but I thought you'd be clever enough to understand it also applied to Weasley as well. Leave him alone.