Private message to Padma and Seamus

[alt_antonin]

I see that the announcements of Head Boy and Head Girl have gone out. I apologise profusely; I meant to write you both before the news was released, and time got away from me.

Of course you both were in very close contention for the roles, and -- had you not been chosen for Our Lord's Council-- the decision would likely have looked quite different. I have seen firsthand, however, the overwork that happens when students in their NEWT year are entered into Our Lord's service, and to add the duties of Head Boy or Head Girl atop those conflicting obligations would be doing you a great disservice. Despite that, I did agonise over the decision, as you might suspect from how late in the summer the announcement letters were sent.

I do hope that we can work together for the good of the school in the coming year nonetheless.

Comments

[alt_seamus]

Of course, sir.

[alt_padma]

Antonin,

Of course, it's undersrandable that you would want to spare us the triviality of concerns that must occupy the Head Students. I am sure Daphs will bring just the right sense of motherly care to our charges. She excels at taking in strays that way.

I must admit I have reservations about Linus but please rest assured that I will continue to guide him in any matters of navigation he may find diffucult. I remain quite mindful of your trust in asking him to turn to me as his model for such things.

I can't pretend it wasn't a blow but, as service to Our Lord is ever so much more prestigious and represents so much more commitment, I am confident the temporary sting will fade quickly.

Regardless of title, I remain a Prefect and you have my full support throughout the coming year.