HP Thirty-Five Owls

Dear Gellert:

thank you for your mail.As I read this letter, I was reminded of your old comment - you said there was nothing in this world that would stop me from being "a complacent bastard", and that's exactly what I remember your words saying.I am afraid I am still so hopeless.I've been expecting an owl since our duel, and it's hard to be surprised when I do.In fact, if I had to wait another year or two, I should start worrying.

I gave your owl a Drying Charm, a perch near Fox's flame, and three little white mice.She was really in a good mood after a flight like this. (And Fox himself is not bad, he is hard to hurt now, even if you are as skilled.) I am still at Hogwarts, teaching transfiguration, and serving as the head and vice-head of Gryffindor House .I may have been less brilliant than when we first met.But I still enjoy life.The start of the term has been a bit hectic so I've been a little slow to reply.And October [-]th was such a quiet and peaceful day, it was a joy.

So yes, Gellert, I'm not surprised.And what I'm going to say next may surprise you in turn, but I really don't hate you.I remember I said this a long time ago, when we were dueling, so I will say it again now.I didn't mean to despise you, nor did I intend to laugh at you.Do you find this difficult to understand?I'm afraid it's hard for me to explain too.And this might just be new evidence that I'm a complacent bastard.

(Speaking of duels, don't worry, I've kept "it" well.)

How do you pass the time without being in touch with nature?I hope you are doing well.Since you can communicate, I guess you can also read?Feel free to attach a book you might like, some interesting Transfiguration theory from Wales in the twenties - you were busy preparing to conquer Europe at the time, so you probably just missed it.

Regards.

Albus Dumbledore

[Attachment:, Of Mice and Matriculation Gwalchmai Gwartney & Iantoap Madog]

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Note: The last one is really incapable of flipping. . .