Order Only Private Message to Severus Snape

[alt_poppy]

I should like very much to hear your views on Minerva's condition. Do your measurements indicate any lessening of the potion's benefits? Any sign that she is becoming inured to its effects? I've seen no external signs, but I'm hopeful that your more arcane analyses would give us early warning to make adjustments if needed.

I hope I don't need to tell you that we must remain vigilant: there's unlikely to be any overt signs of slippage so long as she is well enough to concern herself with appearances. She's very good at maintaining her facade, even from me after all these years.

Meanwhile, I worry that Dolores will find some way to inhibit my communication with Minerva. Mind you, that's merely an inkling, based almost entirely on what she's not said or on what I guess might lie between the lines of the things she does say. Something else to keep me occupied during the watches of the night.

Comments

[alt_severus]

I am, of course, concerned that we are no longer able to monitor her progress on a regular basis, but I have seen no signs that the potion has begun to lose its effect, nor is that common. The most common failure mode by far is the patient refusing the dosage once he or she has recovered sufficient clarity of mind to believe he or she is cured of the cravings; I would feel much more at ease if one of our company were able to serve as a companion for Minerva more often to witness that the potion is being taken as required. Perhaps Molly Weasley could be enlisted.

I am certain Madam Umbridge will endeavour to make life as difficult as possible, but at least you might be comforted that secure communication is possible; it is an advantage many others do not have. I am aware of the difficulty of diagnosing complaints via journal, but at least one need not have Umbridge breathing down one's neck when communicating with Minerva regarding her afflictions.

I have attempted what I might to convince Madam Umbridge that I support her goals for Hogwarts; I will keep you and Pomona up to date with what information I am able to obtain.