Private Message to Alcaeus Covington

Yes, of course. I am always pleased to assist the Department of Mysteries. Off top of my head I cannot say for certain that I do own a copy of Cestus, but likewise I cannot imagine that I do not.

I will be in New London this weekend; if you would like to call upon me Sunday morning -- say, after brunch? -- I will be happy to take you through the library, and lend you whatever material would suit.

Private Message to Barty

As you may have seen, today I've had a message from Alcaeus Covington of Mysteries, out of the blue asking me whether I owned a copy of Parlington's Cestus, and if so, whether he could borrow it. In light of what you, Lucius, and Selwyn have been investigating about Mysteries, I find this interesting: I cannot imagine I am the only source for the book in the whole Protectorate, and I cannot help but wonder if this is coincidence.

I've invited him to drop by after brunch on Sunday. I've an appointment with Minerva, Saturday afternoon -- come by for supper, after, and stay the night so you are there Sunday morning? I can't say why, but my instincts are tingling.