Interrupting McGonagall Interrupting McGonagall

Professor McGonagall took a moment to compose herself and said, “Now, where were we?  Ah, yes.

“The Sorting is a very important ceremony because, while you are here, your House will be something like your family within Hogwarts.  You will have classes with the rest of your House, sleep in your House dormitory, and spend free time in your House common room.

“The four Houses are called Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw and Slytherin.  Each House has its own noble history and each has produced outstanding witches and wizards.  While you are at Hogwarts, your triumphs will earn your House points, while any rule-breaking will lose House points.”  She paused momentarily to glare at Luna.  “At the end of the year, the House with the most points is awarded the House cup, a great honor.  I hope each of you will be a credit to whichever House becomes yours.

“The Sorting Ceremony will take place in a few minutes in front of the rest of the school.  I suggest you all smarten yourselves up as much as you can while waiting.”2  Her glance zeroed in on certain students in the crowd, including Luna.  “There are restrooms in the rear,” she continued, giving a nod in that direction.  “The Sorting may last over an hour.  I shall return when we are ready for you.  You are expected,” and here she stared directly at Luna, “to refrain from speaking until I return.”

She turned and opened the door.

Luna said, clearly, “Thank you, Professor McGonagall.”

The professor froze, just for a moment, while every other student in the room gaped in amazement.  Luna heard her exhale slowly, and then she continued out the door.

²  Page 114, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone