Asking Poppy is a very good idea indeed, and one I actually had not thought of. I've mostly been combing through the Ministry, to no avail. I've also put out feelers with Mysteries, but most of that lot can't tie their own shoelaces without whiffing the charm six times in a row, much less manage a classroom, so I'm reduced to looking for someone who knows someone who, etc.

And I have been slowly coming around to the thought I will likely need to sweet-talk York somewhat. Or throw around my weight, which I do so dislike if there is no other way around it -- it tends to close off so many other options in the future. Still. Mr Marvolo and I have had a very productive discussion in which he has made it clear he is as committed to the idea of a revitalised Hogwarts as I am; perhaps I might enlist him for that battle. He can pull off innocent puzzlement and of-course-I-must-have-misunderstood-you far better than I.

Holcomb's vitae does indeed seem quite strong; I've put him near the top of the list. I doubt we'll be able to offer compelling wages, for the first year at least (if I am not able to persuade the Governors of the rightness of my cause I shall simply finance the positions myself) but his introductory letter does at least seem as though he enjoys the experience of teaching, which has been sadly lacking thus far in the slushpile; that alone warrants a closer look.

And I do understand about the people, for all that -- when I am in extremis -- I draw comfort from interaction rather than finding it a chore. Still. The offer remains open, dear heart. I am not so busy that I do not have time for necessary things, and supporting you falls under that banner.