9 November
Dear Harry,

Apparently the Baron had a little too much fun at Nick's deathday party. No, I am not kidding. I did not realize that ghosts could become intoxicated, but it seems that all that is necessary is a little creativity. (And a lot of mess; Filch isn't too happy.)

I remember that article. Silly little thing in Skeeter's gossip column with zero supporting evidence, right? Severus happens to know the man in question and reports that he had recently turned down Skeeter's advances. Nice to know she's still herself, isn't it?

All is well on my end. Poppy rather embarrassed us both by pulling us both aside after lunch today to quiz us on our knowledge of birth control. Turns out she did cast Muffliato beforehand, but we didn't realize it until she dropped the spell. I just hope that nobody here can lipread. Otherwise it's been peaceful. No fights (unless you count arguing over papers from the latest Potions Today, which I don't) and no surprising new developments.

If you see the twins, let them know that the latest batch of daydream potions are a little on the strong side. Somebody spiked the refreshments at the last staff meeting.

Love,
Hermione