Bellatrix Lestrange

Negligence, Negligence. My own, naturally. Though some might rush to my defence, given that I've an infant, a career, an extended family, and other various and sundry Protectorate business to attend to, there is never good excuse for negligence. And so I write.

On that subject, Hydra Elladora Lestrange, do not think that I've been so busy as to miss that you have decided to Owl your Father this week and not me. I believe I made it plain that I expect at least one Owl a week from you, describing the details of your lessons, your marks thus far, and a transcription of any comments (be it praise or criticism) verbalised to you by a Professor or Prefect. I hoped you had conveyed this information in the Owl to your Father, but when I read it I was greeted with some prattling nonsense about your robe rabbit and an ever-growing collection of sweets and chocolates.

So with your best interests in mind, I have Owled your cousin Draco and instructed him to no longer allow his mudblood to fetch you sweets. Bad enough you borrowed money from him for a trifling toy, but now you abuse the services of his slave, as well.

And Narcissa, please do not send Hydra chocolates out of pity. Or pocket money, for that matter. You may recall that Father rarely gifted me with such luxuries, and I am only better for it. As the eldest, Hydra will learn responsibility and self-sufficiency for her own good, even if you and my husband try to spoil her in secret.

Hydra, if you want pocket money, sell some of those sweets you've collected. Or perhaps the robe pet - they seem to be in demand enough.

I am pleased, however, that you have expressed an interest in becoming an Auror. In fact, it seems that Wright and Gupta made quite an impression on much of the Hogwarts' student body. I myself cannot recommend the career of an Auror enough - nothing compares. Such is why I have continued my field work instead of taking over for old Mafalda, or stepping into Rufus' shoes, for that matter.

Of course, not everyone is cut out for the life of an Auror. See your groundskeeper if you want an example of why.