2(ii)
They waited at the dining table for the first years to arrive.
'I do hope this year's batch of Gryffindors are up to scratch.' said Nearly Headless Nick, drifting over to the table and stopping beside Harry.
'You say that every year!' said Ron indignantly.
'Yeah, I guess I do, but it's true, isn't it?' Nearly Headless Nick said cheerfully.
Yeah, I guess it is, thought Harry to himself. Wow. Are those the first years? They sure look puny.
'And now, The Sorting Hat!' Professor McGonagall said with a flourish. Applause rocked the hall. Harry didn't hear the sorting hat's song, he was too busy talking to Ginny.
'Ah! Finally! Let's tuck in! said Ron, holding his knife and fork as though he wanted to attack the food which was about to appear.
'Before we all begin, I have a few words to say.' Said Professor Dumbledore. Ron groaned. 'Bon Appetit.' Everyone laughed.
Wow! This stuff is great!' Ron remarked with his mouth full. Harry would have loved to reply, but he was too busy finishing the contents of his plate.
'Seems rather quiet without Fred and George, doesn't it?' Ginny whispered in Harry's ear.
And indeed it was. There was laughing, but without the Weasley Twins, things seemed, well, a bit quiet. When there was nothing but crumbs and bones left on everyone's plates, Dumbledore stood up and announced; ' Well, another year has begun. For some , it will be their last, but for others, their time here is just beginning. This year, a new teacher will be joining us.'
At that, Sirius came in and sat at the table. A low murmur rippled through the hall.
'Sirius Black is here to teach Defense Against the Dark Arts, as well as Advanced Defense Against the Dark Arts. Sirius Black has been cleared of all wrongdoing, and is now only as guilty as you or I. Please welcome our newest teacher!'
When the applause had died down, Dumbledore continued. 'This year, I am pleased to announce the addition of the 1st Team Games. This event will take place throughout the year, in addition to the Standard House Games. Your House Mistresses and Masters will further brief you.'
With that, the hall emptied of people rapidly. Harry, Ron, Hermione and Ginny were amonst the few who stayed behind. Harry wanted to talk to Sirius.