I Solemnly Swear That I Am Up to No Good: Private message to Neville Longbottom

[alt_terry]

Didn't want to leave you a private comment in Justin's journal, because that would be sort of rude. So am writing to you here.

Look. I get it. I know you're scared. (I figure we're good enough friends by now that you won't get offended if I tell you that, even if you are a Gryffindor. Because you'd have to be an idiot not to be). I loathe the Dark Arts just as much as you do. And that's why I'll help.

Comments

[alt_neville]

Huh. Got a letter from them at breakfast, enclosed in one from Gran, which answered some of my questions.

They warn me that Evelyn and I shouldn't try to get out of the class, because it'll draw too much attention. Yeah, that's about what I figured. Mum also said 'Unlike your late professors, Antonin Dolohov is charming, and gives every appearance of being a reasonable person. Make no mistake, however; he is dangerous – and because of his charm, is that much more dangerous than you may expect him to be. I’ve seen his handiwork with my own eyes, and he is capable of unimaginable cruelty. He may single you both out as children of his enemies, and would be the sort of person who would take pride in teaching you something knowing that we would disagree with it. I would suggest that you be respectful of him at all times, and to avoid open disobedience or debate.'

Well, I'm glad they wrote, except maybe I'm even more nervous than ever.

[alt_terry]

That's the advice I'd give you, too: give every signal that you can that you respect him. Like, pay attention all the time in class instead of talking to your friends, that sort of thing. Take lots of notes, and get your essays in on time.