Bellatrix Black 7 January 1963
Dear Uncle Arcturus,
Forgive me for writing to you like this. I know how busy you are. I'm worried about Father. I noticed during the holidays that he seemed very distracted. Well actually, I noticed that he wasn't there for most of time; just Christmas and Boxing Day. And when he was there he seemed more distant then usual. At Christmas dinner, one of the house-elves dropped the bowl of sprouts and he didn't even notice! I've never seen him like this before. I asked Mother if she knew what was wrong with him and where he'd been. She said he'd been in Porlock on business and it must be that. But since Father wouldn't tell her if the house was on fire, I regarded that with some scepticism. You know him better then anyone, Uncle. Is he all right? I know I'm only thirteen, but I'm very disturbed by his behaviour. I'll understand if there's nothing I can do, but I'd really like to know what's going on.
Your Niece
Forgive me for writing to you like this. I know how busy you are. I'm worried about Father. I noticed during the holidays that he seemed very distracted. Well actually, I noticed that he wasn't there for most of time; just Christmas and Boxing Day. And when he was there he seemed more distant then usual. At Christmas dinner, one of the house-elves dropped the bowl of sprouts and he didn't even notice! I've never seen him like this before. I asked Mother if she knew what was wrong with him and where he'd been. She said he'd been in Porlock on business and it must be that. But since Father wouldn't tell her if the house was on fire, I regarded that with some scepticism. You know him better then anyone, Uncle. Is he all right? I know I'm only thirteen, but I'm very disturbed by his behaviour. I'll understand if there's nothing I can do, but I'd really like to know what's going on.
Your Niece