"Fudge, tell me the reason why you wish
to sack Severus Snape." Dumbledore demanded. Fudge just stood nervously
in front of him.
"Certain aspects of his character do not…"
Fudge began.
"The real reason."
"His sexuality. There is a problem with
all the kids about, the governors are worried that…"
"Severus would never stoop that low. You
must be very sick minded if you believe he would seduce an innocent pupil."
"Albus, there are other reasons, but that
is one of the main ones." Fudge finally managed a sentence without Dumbledore
interrupting.
"For example."
"We shall discuss that further with the
man concerned."
"Is there any chance that Severus could
get his job back?" Fudge looked generally miffed now.
"He would have to take the matter to court,
declare his sexuality and let a jury decided whether he should be allowed
to continue in his job."
"When do you wish to discuss this?" Dumbledore
asked.
"Next week."
"Next week! The new term starts that week!"
"I realise. Severus Snape is suspended,
without pay until that date. Members past and present of the governors
have been called to make a decision. I suggest you advise Snape to get
a lawyer."
"He doesn't need a lawyer, he has got me."
Dumbledore replied coldly. "I've defended him once, I can defend him again.
Good evening." Dumbledore held the door open for Fudge to leave.
"Well, good day Albus." Fudge picked up
his purple bowler hat and hurried from the room.
"Welcome, welcome, welcome to yet another
year of hard work at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. I ask
all prefects to make sure that the young first years be looked after properly.
"Now, the more sharp eyed among you will
notice that we are missing our Potions master. No, he has not been sacked
but is ill. He should be joining us if his health improves. Now! Let us
all sing the school song! Everyone pick their favourite tune and off we
go!" The entire school bellowed the words to the school song, each at his
or her own pace.
"Severus, will you please relax!" Dumbledore
grabbed the arm of the nervous young man in a desperate attempt to stop
him pacing the floor.
"I can't help it. I'm really nervous."
Snape was ringing his hands together.
"Please stop pacing. You're making me dizzy
and your going to wear the carpet out." For the first time, that afternoon
Snape smiled.
"Sorry." He apologised meekly.
