A/N: This memo is for NewProphecy, who requested a memo from when Minerva was a student. Therefore, my lovelies, this is the very first memo ever exchanged by these two legendary teachers.
MEMOS
Professor, may I speak to you?
To speak, my dear, you must visit me in my office.
I'm sorry, Sir. I can't. I need to talk to you in strict confidence… anonymously.
In that case, write on.
Well, Sir, I need some advice.
Then I fear you have come to the wrong person. I can offer very little of help to you if it is the troubles of the teenage years that you wish to avoid. Unless, of course, those troubles concern chamber music.
No, Sir, I…
I can assure you that whatever you say will go no further and I shall even burn these notes if you wish.
I don't think that will be necessary, Professor. I was just wondering what the necessary qualifications were to become a teacher.
Well, it depends on the subject and the applicant. There is, of course, the minimum requirement of seven O.W.L.s and an 'Outstanding' in your chosen area – or, if you do not achieve that, considerable experience thereof. Pardon me, but why do you feel unable to ask me this in person?
I could not be sure that you would keep it a secret if you knew my name. My father would hate for me to become a teacher; he is keen for me to go into the Church in some way, to follow in his footsteps.
Surely you father can respect your wishes? It is your future, after all.
No, Sir. You see, my father is far too much like me; he is strong-willed and hard-headed, and much too stubborn for his own good. But I refuse to be a good little housewife. I want to help people, to give them aspirations and show them that they can do what they want if they try hard enough.
Well, Miss McKay, I think that is an admirable wish.
Sir, how did you –
You talk of your father being religiously involved, you write with an eloquence somewhat beyond the years of a younger student and you have a very strong desire to be great. And you are the only student, Miss McKay, who dots their 'i's with a little cross.
Well done, Sherlock.
Sherlock?
I beg your pardon, Professor, I spoke out of turn.
You did not speak, my dear, you wrote. Besides, I quite like the nickname. Should you ever wish to contact me in a hurry again, you are welcome to send more of these charming little notes.
I will, Sir, thank you.
Oh, and Miss McKay?
Yes, Professor?
I would advise you to speak with your father. I am sure he will understand.
I doubt it, Sir, but thank you. Goodnight, Professor.
Goodnight, Minerva.