I have loved the stars too fondly to be fearful of the night.

Oh, my dear, of course. I'm sure Chloe's only waiting to know what sort of reception she'll receive. It would be so good of you to make the first move. I suggest a note, and include an invitation to tea - not alone, of course, but with some others. Pandora, perhaps, since her girls are of an age with Chloe's, myself, and either Yvaine or Mariah. That way she'll be among friends and we may steer the conversation in ways that will be comfortable for you both. Besides, it's probably high time that you begin to hostess your own small parties; it will help you later. I'm sure Raz would offer Spencer but it might be better to choose a reputable tea room and book one of their salons. You'll continue to come to town on Tuesdays, is that correct? Then it could be on any week that suits you, even after the term starts up again.

Regarding Madam Umbridge, it's none of my business, of course, but it's my understanding from certain contacts of mine in the Ministry that she never quite forgave Miss Robins her ambitions. Knowing Dolores as we do, that's not hard to imagine. Perhaps she intended to take the girl to task for some new slight, imagined or otherwise. In any case, that's well outside the realm of holiday thoughts and celebrations.

You ought to take that young man of yours out somewhere fun this evening. We'll see you tomorrow, I assume, but that's a circus, always is.