Dear Grandfather,

I attended my first classes today. It's strange, being a 2nd year. After spending all last year wandering around confused and all, it's nice to go back without having to worry about where the library is or which dungeon corridor is the one that leads to the entrance to the Slytherin commons. Speaking of, there's a new commons down there but it's for all the Houses. I'm still not sure whether I think it's a grand idea or just mad. I'm not terribly thrilled with its being down in the dungeons but it's Hogwarts: It may only be there a few days before it drifts somewhere else or simply disappears altogether. The castle's awfully strange that way.

You'll be glad to know that last year's Head of House Slytherin has gained a promotion to the position of Headmaster. I suppose it's only a temporary position as the previous Headmaster has been demoted to teaching classes only while he's being investigated by the Ministry though I don't know why. Anyroad, I'm glad Professor Thirroul's Headmaster now, even if it is only temporary. He does things like you do. Or at least he does things in a manner you'd approve of. I'll send along a couple of his notes with the next letter I send. I'm sure you'll see what I mean. I wouldn't be at all surprised if later in the year he suspends Dumbledore's moratorium against what he calls "Corrective" hexes. He wrote us several paragraphs about them actually, in grave detail.

I've joined the Owl Club. I'm not really sure why except that I didn't see any other of my Housemates joining up and after some loony went and killed a few (non-service) owls I want to keep an ear on anyone that might find anything out. The professor in charge of the club has offered a free owl to anyone in the club but I don't think I should take him up on it. Our owls are far better than the school's and if there is someone out there aiming to hurt owls, it would make sense not to take up owning one just now. Don't you agree, grandfather? 

There isn't any homework yet but I am turning in early tonight anyroad. I've got a strange feeling I'm going to need to be well-rested for tomorrow...

Regards,
Shane