6
The journey from platform nine and three quarters

The last month of Harry with the Dursleys was not fun. True, Dudley
I was afraid and did not stay with him in the same room, and Aunt Petunia and
Uncle Vernon not locked in the cupboard and he was forced to do anything or you
They screamed. Actually, even they spoke to her. Half terrified,
half angry, behaved as if the chair was occupied Harry
empty. Although this meant an improvement in many respects, after
time was a bit depressing.
Harry stayed in his room with his new owl for company.
He decided to call her Hedwig, a name he found in A History of Magic.
Schoolbooks were very interesting. At night reading in bed
late, while Hedwig came and went at will through the open window.
It was lucky that Aunt Petunia not enter the room because Hedwig
He had dead mice. Every night before bedtime, Harry marked another day
in the paper that was on the wall, until September 1.
The last day of August thought it best to talk to their uncles to
go to King's Cross station the next day. So he went down to the lounge where
They were watching TV. He cleared his throat, so they would know that
I was there, and Dudley screamed and ran.
Um ... Uncle Vernon?
Uncle Vernon grunted to show that you listened.
Um ... I need to be at King's Cross tomorrow to ... to go to Hogwarts.
Uncle Vernon growled again.
'Could you take me there?
Another grunt. Harry interpreted that meant yes.
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Thank you.
He was about to climb back up the ladder, when Uncle Vernon finally
He spoke.
What a curious way of going to a school for wizards, by train. Are
Magic carpets are all punctured?
Harry said nothing.
'Where is this school, anyway?
I do not know, 'said Harry; realizing that for the first time. He took the
pocket the ticket Hagrid had given her. I have to take the train leaving
the platform nine and three quarters, at eleven in the morning he read.
His uncles looked at him in amazement.
-¿Andén What?
Nine and three quarters.
Do not say stupid things said Uncle Vernon. There is no platform nine and
three quarters.
'That says my ticket.
-Equivocados Said Uncle Vernon. Totally crazy, all of them. Already
You'll see. You wait. Okay, we'll take you to Kings Cross. Anyway,
we have to go to London tomorrow. Otherwise, I would not bother.
Why are you going to London? Harry asked, trying to keep the tone
friendly.
We've been to the hospital Dudley growled Uncle Vernon. Is then removed
that damn tail before it goes to Smeltings.
The next morning, Harry woke at five, so excited and
excited that he could not go back to sleep. He got up and pulled on his jeans: no
I wanted to walk through the station wizard robe with her because it would change the train.
He looked again wishlist Hogwarts to make sure we had everything
necessary, he took care to put Hedwig in her cage and then paced the
room, waiting for the Dursleys were lifted. Two hours later, the
Harry heavy trunk was loaded into the car and Aunt Petunia Dursley
Dudley had made sit with Harry, to leave.
They reached King's Cross at ten-thirty. Uncle Vernon loaded the trunk
Harry on a cart and took him by the station. Harry thought it was a rare
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kindness, until Uncle Vernon stopped, looking platforms with a
wicked smile.
Well, here you are, boy. Platform nine, ten o'clock ... You platform platform
It should be in the middle, but it seems that they have not yet built, right?
He was right, of course. There was a large number nine, plastic,
on a platform a number ten on the other and, in between, no.
'Have a good course Uncle Vernon said with a smile more
grim. He left without another word. Harry turned and saw the
Dursley walked away. The three laughed. Harry felt a dry mouth. What would I do?
He was drawing attention because of Hedwig. He should ask
someone.
She stopped a passing guard, but did not dare to mention the platform
nine three quarters. The guard had never heard of Hogwarts and when
Harry could not tell what part of the country was, began to bother,
as if he thought Harry was stupid on purpose. Not knowing what to do,
Harry asked for the train leaving at once, but the guard told him not
There was none. In the end, the guard walked away, muttering something about people
He was wasting time. According to the large clock that was on the table of times
Arrival, had ten minutes to catch the train to Hogwarts and had no idea
what I could do. It was the middle of the station with a trunk he could hardly
carry a pocket full of coins magician and a cage with an owl.
Hagrid must have forgotten to tell him something he had to do, like taking a
hit the third brick on the left to get into Diagon Alley. Are
He wondered if he should take his wand and start hitting the box office, among
platforms nine ten.
At that time, a group of people passed him and caught a
few words.
-... Full of Muggles, of course ...
Harry turned to see them. The speaker was a plump woman,
he walked four boys, all with flaming red hair. Every
one pushing a trunk like Harry, and had an owl.
Heart pounding, Harry pushed the cart behind them. Are
arrested and imitated, standing close enough to hear what
They said.
And now, what is the number of the platform? He said the m other.
-¡Nueve And three quarters! said the shrill voice of a child, also a redhead,
it was the hand of the mother. Mom, I can not go ...?
No're old enough, Ginny, now be quiet. All right, Percy, you
first.
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It seemed that the older boy walked toward platforms nine and
tenfold. Harry watched, trying not to blink to miss nothing. But
just when the boy came to the division of the two platforms, a long
caravan of tourists passed by him, and when they walked away, the boy had
disappeared.
Fred, are the following plump woman said.
'I'm Fred, I'm George said the boy. Really, woman,
You can call our mother? Do not you realize that I am George?
I'm sorry, George, darling.
He was joking, I am Fred said the boy, and walked away. It must
happen, because a second later it was gone. But how he had
I done? His twin brother went after him: the third brother was quickly
at the box office (he was almost there) and then, suddenly, he was not in any
part.
There was no more.
Excuse me, Harry said to the plump woman.
Hello, dear, 'he said. First year at Hogwarts, right? Ron is also
again.
He pointed to last and youngest of his sons. He was tall, skinny, freckled,
with large hands and feet and a long nose.
Yes, 'said Harry. What happens is that ... I do not know how ...
-How Come on the platform? he asked kindly, and Harry nodded
head.
Do not worry, 'he said. All you have to do is walk straight
towards the barrier that lies between the two platforms. Do not stop and do not be
fear of crashing, that's very important. We will go faster if you're
nervous. Go now, go before Ron.
Um ... Okay Harry said.
He pushed his cart and walked towards the barrier. He looked very solid.
He began to walk. The people walking around going to platform nine
or to ten. It was faster. He was going to hit the box office and have problems.
He leaned on the car and started running (the barrier closer and
more). He could not stop (the cart was out of control), and was
there ... He closed his eyes, ready for the clash ...
But it never came. It kept rolling. He opened his eyes.
A steam locomotive, scarlet, waiting on the platform full
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of people. A sign read: "Hogwarts Express 11 h '. Harry looked back
and I saw an iron archway where it should be the box office, with the words
"Platform Nine and Three Quarters."
I had made it.
Locomotive smoke rose over the heads of the noisy
crowd, while cats of all colors back and forth between the
legs of people. The owls were calling to one another, a
cranky wail, above the noise of the talks and the movement of
heavy trunks.
The first cars were already packed with students, some
peering through the windows to speak with their families, others arguing
on the seats that were to occupy. Harry pushed his cart along the platform,
looking for an empty seat. He passed a round-faced boy
He reads:
-Abuelita, I again lost my toad.
Oh, Neville he heard that the old woman sighed.
A stiff hairs boy was surrounded by a group.
Leave us look, Lee, go.
The boy lifted the lid of the box in his arms, and those who
around him they shouted when the interior came a long bushy tail.
Harry made his way until he found an empty compartment near the
end of the train. First I went to Hedwig and then began to push the trunk to
the carriage door. He tried to carry it up the stairs, but just could
raise a little before hitting him fell a foot.
You want to give you a hand? It was one of the red-haired twins, to
which he had followed through the barrier of the platforms.
Yes, please, Harry gasped.
Hey, Fred! Come help!
With the help of the twins, Harry's trunk was finally on a
compartment corner.
Thanks Harry said, removing the eyes damp hair.
What is that? suddenly said one of the twins, indicating the
Harry bright scar
-go Said the other twin. Are you ...?
-that He said the first. You, right? He turned to Harry.
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Who? Harry asked.
Harry Potter -respondieron chorus.
Oh, he said Harry. I mean, yes, I am.
The two boys looked at him shocked and Harry felt
He blushed. Then, to his relief, a voice came through the open door
magazine.
-¿Fred? George? Are you there?
-And come on, Mom.
With one last look at Harry, the twins jumped from the car.
Harry sat next to the window. From there, half hidden, he could
Family watching redheads on the platform and hear what they said. Mother
He had just taken out a handkerchief.
Ron, you got something on your nose.
The youngest boy tried to dodge, but the mother grabbed him and
He began rubbing the tip of the nose.
Mom, let me exclaimed away.
-¿Ah, The little Ronnie has something in her little nose? said one of the
twins.
Shut up, 'said Ron.
Where is Percy? He asked the mother.
Here he comes.
The older boy approached them. He had already put
billowing black Hogwarts robes, and Harry noticed that he had a badge
silver chest, with the letter P
'I can get me a lot, Mom said. I am ahead,
prefects have two compartments ...
Oh, are you a prefect, Percy? said one of the twins, with an air of
great surprise. You should have told us, we had no idea.
Wait, I think I remember you said something said the other twin. A
Once ...
Or two ...
-a Minute ...
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-All Summer ...
Oh, pebbles said Percy, the prefect.
And anyway, why Percy has new robe? said one of the
twins.
Because he's a prefect said affectionately mother. Okay,
honey, have a good year. Send me an owl when you get there.
She kissed Percy on the cheek and the boy was. Then he turned to the
twins.
Now, you two ... This year I have to wear well. If I get a
more owl telling me you did ... blow up a toilet or ...
'Doing blow up a toilet? We have never done anything like that.
But it's a great idea, mom. Thank you.
-it's Not funny. And city of Ron.
Do not worry, little Ronnie is safe with us.
Shut up Ron said again. It was almost as tall as the twins and nose
I was still pink where his mother had rubbed.
Hey, Mom, you guess who just saw on the train?
Harry ducked to avoid being caught.
'Do you remember that boy of black hair that was close
we in the station? Do you know who is?
Who?
-Harry Potter!
Harry heard the voice of the child.
Mom, I can get on the train to see it? Oh, Mom, please ...!
I've seen-and Ginny and also the poor boy is not something to it
look like at the zoo. Is he really, Fred? How do you know it?
She asked him. I saw his scar. It is really there ... as enlightened.
-Pobrecillo ... It is not uncommon to be alone. It was so nice when I
He asked how to get to the platform ...
That does not matter. Do you think he remembers what it was You-Know-Who?
The mother suddenly became very serious.
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I forbid you to ask, Fred. No, do not you dare. As if he needed
to be reminded of something on their first day of school.
All right, stay calm.
A whistle was heard.
-Daos Hurry mother said, and the three boys got on the train. Are
they peered out the window to the kiss and little sister started
to mourn.
Do not cry, Ginny, will send many owls.
And a toilet Hogwarts.
-¡George!
It was a joke, Mom.
The train began to move. Harry saw the boys' mother
waving and sister, half crying, half laughing, running to
continue to train, until it began to accelerate and then stood
saluting.
Harry watched the mother and daughter until they disappeared when the
train turned. The houses roared past the window. Harry felt a
wave excitation. I did not know what was going to happen ... but it would be better than what
He is leaving behind.
The compartment door opened and the youngest of redheads.
Is there anyone sitting there? he asked, pointing to the opposite seat
Harry. All other cars are full.
Harry shook his head and the boy sat. He glanced at
Harry and then looked away quickly toward the window, as if it
I had been watching. Harry felt he still had a black spot on
nose.
Hey, Ron.
The twins had returned.
Look, we're leaving in the middle of the train, because Lee has Jordan
a giant tarantula and we will see.
Okay Ron muttered.
Said the other twin-Harry, do you have said about us? Fred and
George Weasley. He is Ron, our brother. See you later,
then.
Until then they said Harry and Ron. The twins went out and closed the
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door.
'Are you really Harry Potter? He let out Ron.
Harry nodded.
Oh ... well, I thought I could be one of the jokes of Fred and George -
Ron said. And really you do that ... you know ...?
He noted Harry's forehead.
Harry rose bangs to show the light scar. Ron looked
with care.
'So that's what You-Know-Who ...?
Yes, 'said Harry, but I can not remember.
Nothing? Ron said in wistful tone.
Well ... I remember an intense green light, but nothing more.
-go Ron said. He stared at Harry for a moment and then,
as if he knew what he was doing, he looked quickly
out the window.
-¿Sois A family of magicians? Harry asked, as was to
Ron just as interesting as Ron found him to it.
Oh, yes, I think so, 'said Ron. I think Mom has a
second cousin who's an accountant, but we never talked about it.
Then you must already know a lot about magic.
Clearly the Weasley was one of those old families
wizards he had spoken the pale boy in Diagon Alley.
I heard that you had gone to live with Muggles said Ron. How are they?
-Horribles ... Well, not all of them. My aunt, my uncle and my cousin are. Me
I wish I had three brothers magicians.
Five corrected Ron. For some reason it seemed deprimido-. I am the
sixth in our family to go to attend Hogwarts. You could say I have the
bar very high. Bill and Charlie have already finished. Bill was delegate class
Charlie was captain of Quidditch. Now Percy is prefect. Fred and George are
very restless, but nevertheless take very good grades and all
They consider fun. Everyone expects me to do as well as the
others, but if I do it will not be much, because they already did
first. Also, you never have anything new, with five brothers. I got the
Bill old robe, wand old Charles and Percy's old rat.

Ron reached into his jacket and pulled out a fat gray rat, which was asleep.
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He called Scabbers and is useless, almost never awake. A
Percy, Dad gave her an owl, because they did prefect, but they could not
comp ... I mean, that's why I got Scabbers.
Ron's ears turned red. He seemed to think that he had spoken
too, because again looked out the window.
Harry did not think there was anything wrong with not being able to buy an owl.
After all, he had never had money in his life, until a month
back, so he told Ron that he had to wear old clothes
Dudley and never made him birthday gifts. That seemed to encourage
Ron.
-... And until Hagrid told me, I had no idea that he was a wizard, or
I knew nothing of my parents or Voldemort ...
Ron snorted.
Me what? said Harry.
You've said the name of who-you-know 'said Ron, as
shocked and impressed. I thought you, of all
people ...
I'm not trying to be brave or anything like that, saying the
Harry said name. I did not know I should not say. You see what you
He said? I have many things to learn ... sure he added, saying
first out loud something that worried him much- lately,
sure to be the worst in the class.
It will not be like that. There are many people who come from Muggle families and learn
very fast.
As they talked, the train had passed through fields full of cows and
sheep. They stared awhile in silence, the landscape.
At about 0:30 there was a commotion in the hallway, and a woman
smiling, dimpled face leaned out and said:
-¿Queréis something you cart, handsome?
Harry, who had not had breakfast, they jumped, but the ears
Ron got another colored time and muttered that had brought snacks.
Harry stepped into the hall.
When I lived with the Dursleys he never had money to buy
treats and, since he had his pockets full of gold, silver and
bronze, was ready to buy all the chocolate bars that could
carry. But the woman was not Mars. Instead, he had Bertie Bott
All flavors, chewing gum, chocolate frogs, pumpkin panada em,
Cauldron Cakes, Licorice Wands and a lot of strange things
Harry had not seen before. Not wanting to miss anything, he bought a
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little bit of everything and paid the woman eleven silver Sickles and seven bronze Knuts.
Ron looked shocked as Harry deposited their purchases on
an empty seat.
You had hungry, right?
-Muchísima Harry said, taking a bite of pie
pumpkin.
Ron had pulled a crumpled pack with four sandwiches. He separated one
and said:
My mother always forget that I do not like corned beef.
I'll trade it for one of these said Harry, handing one cake-.
Help yourself ...
No you will like, is dry said Ron. She did not have much time -
quickly he added -... You know, with five of us.
Come on, help yourself one pastel said Harry, who had never had anything to
share or, indeed, anyone to share anything. It was a pleasant
feeling, sitting there with Ron, eating cakes and sweets (the
sandwiches had been forgotten).
-what Are these? Harry asked Ron, taking a container of frogs
of chocolate-. They are not real frogs, right? -Comenzaba To feel that nothing
I could surprise him.
No, said Ron. But look what has chrome. Agrippa I lack.
Me what?
Oh, of course, you should not know ... The chocolate frogs carry
stickers, you know, to collect, famous witches and wizards. I I have
five hundred, but I can not even Agrippa or Ptolemy.
Harry unwrapped his Chocolate Frog and took chromium. In him it was
printed the face of a man. He wore half-moon glasses, had a nose
long and curved, flowing silver hair, beard and mustache. Below the photo
It was the name: Albus Dumbledore.
I -¡Así this is Dumbledore! said Harry.
'Do not tell me you've never heard of Dumbledore! said Ron.
Can I serve a frog? You may find Agrippa ... Thanks ...
Harry turned the card over and read:
Albus Dumbledore, headmaster of Hogwarts now. Considered by
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As almost everyone the greatest magician in the present tense,
Dumbledore is particularly famous for defeating the dark wizard
Grindelwald in 1945, for the discovery of the twelve applications
dragon's blood, and for his work on alchemy with his partner Nicolas
Flamel. Professor Dumbledore is fond of chamber music and
bowling.
Harry turned again to chromium and saw, to his astonishment, that the face
Dumbledore was gone.
-¡Ya Is not!
Well, would not be there all day, 'said Ron. And he will return. Well, me
has come again and have Morgana and repeated six times ... Did not you?
You can start collecting them.
Ron's eyes were lost in the chocolate frogs, waiting
that desenvolvieran.
Help yourself said Harry. But hey, in the world of muggles people
It is in the photos.
-¿Eso Do? How, would not you move? Ron was atónito-. What
rare!
Harry looked stunned, as Dumbledore returned and chrome
He dedicated a smile. Ron was more interested in eating the frogs
chocolate than seeking famous witches and wizards, but Harry could not tear
the sight of them. Soon he had not only Dumbledore and Morgana, but
Ramon Llull also, King Solomon, Circe, Paracelsus, and Merlin. Until
finally he looked away from the Cliodna druid, scratching his nose to
open a bag of lozenges of all flavors.
You've got to be careful with those-what prevented Ron. When he says
"Every flavor" that's what you mean. You know, you all
common, like chocolate, mint and orange, but you can also find
spinach, liver and tripe. George says he once found a flavored
elf.
Ron chose a green, carefully watched and bit a bit.
-Puaj ... See? Coles.
They had a good time eating the tablets of all flavors. Harry
found toast, coconut, baked bean, strawberry, curry, grass, coffee, sardines and
was brave enough to bite the tip of a gray, Ron refused
touch and proved pepper.
At that time, the landscape looked out the window became more
wild. Gone were the cultivated fields and appeared forests, rivers
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winding hills and dark green.
a knock was heard at the door of the compartment, and entered the boy
round face Harry had seen passing through the platform nine and three quarters.
He looked very distressed.
Pardon said. You would not happen to have seen a toad?
When the two shook his head and groaned.
-¡La I lost! It escapes me all the time!
He appears-and Harry said.
Yes, he said the boy ruefully. Well, if you see it ...
he went.
I do not know why he's so sad 'said Ron. If I had brought a
toad would have lost as quickly as possible. Although actually I
brought Scabbers, so I can not speak.
The rat was still sleeping on the knees of Ron.
I could be dead and not notice the difference, 'said Ron in disgust
. Yesterday I tried to turn it yellow to make it more interesting, but the spell
It not worked. I'll you teach, look ...
He rummaged in his trunk and pulled out a worn wand. In parts
He was chipped and in the end, something glowed white.
-The Unicorn hairs almost out. Anyway ... I had just
take the wand when the compartment door opened again. There was
Toad returned the boy, but he had a girl with him. The girl and
He wore the robes of Hogwarts.
Anyone seen a toad? Neville missed one said. Her voice
bossy, long brown hair and rather long front teeth.
'We've said no,' said Ron, but she was not listening.
He was looking at the wand in his hand.
Oh, are you doing magic? Then we'll see.
he sat. Ron looked puzzled.
Uh ... okay. He cleared his throat. "Sunbeam, daisies,
Yellow come back to this stupid little rat. "
He waved his wand, but nothing happened. Scabbers slept, so gray
as usual.
Are you sure it is the right spell? He asked the girl.
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Well, it's not very effective, right? I tried a few simple, just to
practice, and they worked. Nobody in my family is magician, was a surprise
when I received my letter, but I was also very happy, of course, and
this is the best school of magic, for all I know. I've learned
all books by heart, of course, hope that's enough ... I
I'm Hermione Granger. And who are you?
He said everything very quickly.
Harry looked at Ron and calmed the stunned look on his face that he is not
I had learned all memory books.
'I'm Ron Weasley Ron muttered.
Harry Potter Harry said.
'Are you really? said Hermione. I know all about you, for
Of course, I got a few extra books to prepare you more and figures
History of modern magic, Defense Against the Dark Arts and Great
magical events of the twentieth century.
'Am I? Harry said, feeling dizzy.
My God, I do not know. If I were you would have found everything I could
said Hermione. You know what you're going to go home? I was asking around and
I hope I'm in Gryffindor, it seems the best of all. I heard that Dumbledore was
there, but I suppose Ravenclaw not be so bad ... Anyway, it's
better keep looking for Neville's toad. And you two ought
change you and we will come soon.
And he left, taking the boy without toad.
House-whatever it touches me, I hope she is not said
Ron. He threw his wand at the trunk. What a stupid spell, George told me.
Sure it was false.
'What house are your brothers? He asked Harry
-Gryffindor Ron said. Again he seemed deprimido-. Mom and Dad
They were also there. I do not know what they'll say if I'm not. I do not think that
Ravenclaw so bad, but imagine if they put me in Slytherin.
'Is that the house in which I mean Vol ... You-Know-Who ... was?
Aha, 'said Ron. He leaned back in his chair, looking
overwhelmed.
You know? I think that the tips of Scabbers' whiskers are one
little clearer Harry said, trying to divert the mind of Ron theme
houses-. And by the way, what now do your older brothers?
Harry wondered why he was a magician, once he finished college.
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Charlie's in Romania studying dragons, and Bill's in Africa,
dealing with matters for Gringotts' said Ron. Did you hear what
happened in Gringotts? It was in the Daily Prophet, but I think that the houses of the
Muggles receive: they tried to rob a high security camera.
Harry was surprised.
-for Real? What has happened to them?
Nothing, why they are so important news. They have not been caught. My
Father says there must be a powerful dark wizard to enter
Gringotts, but what is unusual is that it appears that nothing was taken. By
Of course, everyone gets scared when something like this happens, given the possibility that
You-Know-Who is behind it.
Harry went through the news on his head. He had begun to feel a
pang of fear every time I mentioned to who-you-know. Supposed to
this was a part of entering the magical world, but it was much more
nice to say "Voldemort" without worrying.
What's your Quidditch team? He asked Ron.
Uh ... I do not know any Harry confessed.
What? Ron seemed atónito-. Oh, you see, it is the best game
world ... And she was dedicated to explain all about the four balls and
positions of the seven players, describing famous plays that had
seen with his brothers and broom you would like to buy if I had the money.
He was explaining the finer points of the game when it opened again
compartment door, but this time it was not Neville, the boy without toad, or
Hermione Granger.
They went three boys, and Harry immediately recognized the medium: it was
the pale boy Store Madame Malkin's robe. Harry watched
more interest than he had shown in Diagon Alley.
-It Is true? he asked. Throughout the train they are saying Harry
Potter's in this compartment. So it's you, right?
Yes, 'said Harry. He watched the other boys. Both they were
corpulent and seemed very vulgar. On either side of the pale boy,
They seemed bodyguards.
Oh, this is Crabbe and Goyle he said the pale boy
carelessness, realizing that Harry he looked at her. And my name is
Malfoy, Draco Malfoy
Ron gave a weak cough, which could be hiding a giggle. Draco
(Dragon) Malfoy looked at him.
'I think my name is funny, right? I need not ask
who you are. My father told me all the Weasleys have red hair, freckles and
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more children than they can afford.
He turned to Harry.
Very soon you will find that some wizarding families are much
better than others, Potter. You do not want to become a friend of the class
undue. I can help you with that.
He extended his hand to shake Harry; but Harry did not take it.
I think you can tell just what undue Thanks
he said coldly.
Draco Malfoy blushed, but pinkish appeared in his pale
cheeks.
'I'd be careful if I were you, Potter said quietly. Unless
you're a little more friendly, you will go the same way your parents. They
they did not know what was good for them. You go with riffraff like
Weasleys and that Hagrid and you end up like them.
Harry and Ron got up at the same time. Ron's face was so
red as his hair.
Repeats it said.
Oh, you're going to fight us, eh? Malfoy sneered.
If you do not go now ... 'said Harry, with more value than
He felt, because Crabbe and Goyle were much stronger than he and Ron.
But we have no desire to go, is not it, boys?
We've eaten everything we had and you seem to still
You have something.
Goyle leaned over to pick up a chocolate frog next to Ron. The
redhead jumped toward him, but before he could touch Goyle, the boy
He let out a terrible howl.
Scabbers the rat hung finger Goyle, with sharp teeth
diving deep into his knuckles. Crabbe and Malfoy backed
while Goyle waved to get rid of the rat, screaming
pain, until finally, Scabbers came flying, crashed into the window
and the three boys disappeared. Maybe they thought there were more rats
among the sweets, or maybe because they heard the steps, a second later,
Hermione Granger came back.

-what You happened? he asked, looking candy lying on the floor
Ron and Scabbers he grabbed it by the tail.
I think I fainted Ron said to Harry. He looked more closely at the
rat-. No, I can not believe it has already gone back to sleep.
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And it was so.
You knew and Malfoy?
Harry explained the meeting in Diagon Alley.
I heard talk about his family said Ron grimly. They are some of
the first who returned to our side after You-Know-Who
He disappeared. They said they had been bewitched. My father does not buy it. He says
Malfoy's father did not need an excuse to go over to the Dark Side.
He turned to Hermione. Can we help you?
Better than you and I hasten cambiéis clothes. I just went to the
locomotive, I asked the driver and told me that almost we're getting.
Do not you would be fighting, right? We waltz to get in trouble before
come!
-Scabbers Has been fighting, not us, 'said Ron, watching her
stern face. Would you mind leaving us to change us?
Very well ... I came here because it was childish and you are doing
running through the corridors Hermione said dismissively tone. Incidentally,
Have you noticed that you have dirty nose?
Ron gave him a look of anger as she left. Harry looked out the
window. it was getting dark. He could see mountains and forests under a sky
a deep purple color. The train seemed to slow down.
He and Ron took off their shirts and long black robes stood.
Ron's was a little short for him, and he could see the pants
gymnastics.
A voice echoed through the train.
We'll get to Hogwarts in five minutes. Please leave your
luggage on the train, I keep separate school.
Harry's stomach twisted with nerves and Ron could see it was
pale under his freckles. They filled their pockets with what was left of the
treats and met the rest of the group that filled the hallways.
The train slowed, until finally stopped. Everyone
pushed to leave the small dark platform. Harry shuddered under the
cold night air. Then a lamp moving on
heads of the students, and Harry heard a familiar voice:
-first Year! The first year here! All right there, Harry?
The big hairy face Hagrid overflowing joy over the sea of ​​heads.
Come, follow me ... Is there more freshmen? Look carefully where you tread.
The first year, follow me!
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They slipping and groping, followed Hagrid seemed so close
path. Harry was so dark that she must have thought very trees
thick on both sides. No one talked much. Neville, the boy who had
He lost his toad, whimpering occasionally.
-In One second, you will have the first glimpse of Hogwarts Hagrid he said
over his shoulder, just around this curve.
There was a strong ooooooh!
The narrow path suddenly opened on the edge of a great black lake.
At the top of a high mountain, on the other hand, with its windows gleaming in
the starry sky, had an impressive castle with many towers and
turrets.
-¡No More than four boat! Hagrid yelled, pointing to a fleet
jars lined up on the water, next to the shore. Harry and Ron went to one,
followed by Neville and Hermione.
-¿Todos You come up? continued Hagrid, who had a boat for him
just-. Come! FORWARD!
And the small fleet of boats moved while sliding down the
lake which was as smooth as glass. All were silent, gazing
the great castle towering over their heads as they approached each
Again the cliff where he stood.
-¡Bajad Heads! said Hagrid, while the first boats
They reached the rock. All bowed their heads and took them jars
through a curtain of ivy that hid a wide opening in the part
front of the cliff. They went through a dark tunnel that seemed to lead
just below the castle, until they came to a kind of spring
underground, which they climbed through the rocks and pebbles.
Hey, you, with you there! Is this your frog? Hagrid said, as he watched the
boats and people coming down from them.
-¡Trevor! He shouted Neville, very happy, spreading his hands. Then
They rose by a passage in the rock behind the lamp Hagrid, out
finally a soft, damp grass, in the shadow of the castle.
They climbed stone steps and met with the big door
oak.
'Are you all here? You, do you still have your toad?
Hagrid raised a gigantic fist and knocked three times on the door castle

7
The Sorting Hat

 

The door opened immediately. A tall witch, black hair and green tunic
emerald, waiting there. He had a very stern face and the first thought
Harry was that it was someone who was better not to have problems.
-The First year, Hagrid said Professor McGonagall.
Thank you, Hagrid. I'll take it from here.
He opened the door well. The lobby was so great that they had
could put all the Dursleys in it. The stone walls were
lit with blazing torches like Gringotts, the ceiling was
so high not seen and a magnificent marble staircase facing them,
leading to the upper floors.
They followed Professor McGonagall through a path indicated in the
stone floor. Harry could hear the sound of hundreds of voices emerging from
portal located on the right (the rest of the school had to be there), but the
Professor McGonagall led the first years into a small room
empty, off the lobby. They met there, closer to each other than
they were used, looking nervously around.
'Welcome to Hogwarts' said Professor McGonagall. The banquet
beginning of the year will be held shortly, but before ocupéis
your place in the Great Hall will have to be selected for your
houses. The selection is a very important ceremony because, while you are
here, your house will be like your family at Hogwarts. You will have classes
with the rest of the house that touch you, you'll sleep in your bedroom
houses and will spend free time in the common room of the house.
"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 get
the houses earn points while any breach of the rules
It will cause the loss. At the end of the year, the house with the most points will be
awarded the house cup, a great honor. I hope all of you
you will be proud to house it touches you.
"The Sorting Ceremony will take place within a few minutes, compared
the rest of the school. I suggest that while you wait, maybe you arregléis
possible.
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The eyes of the professor paused for a moment in the layer of Neville,
I was tied under his left ear, and nose Ron spotted. With
nervousness, Harry tried to crush her hair.
I'll come back when we have everything ready for the ceremony said the
Professor McGonagall. Please wait quiet.
He left the room. Harry swallowed hard.
How exactly they manage to select us? he asked
Ron.
I think it's a kind of test. Fred says it hurts, but
I think it was a joke.
Harry's heart gave a terrible leap. A test? In front of the whole
school? But he did not know any magic yet ... What would? I did not expect
so, just when they had just arrived. He looked at his trembling
around and he saw that the others looked terrified. No one spoke
much except Hermione Granger, who was whispering very quickly all
spells she'd learned and wondering which one would need. Harry tried
not listen. I had never been so nervous, never, not even when
I had to take the Dursleys school report that said he, somehow
so, he had turned blue wig master. He kept his eyes on
door. At any time, Professor McGonagall go back and take
his final judgment.
Then something happened that made him jump in the air ... Many of the
who were behind they shouted.
-what Is ...?
He snorted. So did those who were around. Twenty
ghost had just passed through the back wall. A white
Pearl and slightly transparent, glided around the room, talking
with each other, almost without looking at the first year. Apparently, they were
discussing. Which looked like a fat little monk, he said:
-forgive And forget. I say we should give it a second
opportunity ...
My dear Friar, have not we given Peeves all opportunities
it deserves? He has given us all a bad name and, you know, not even a
real ghost ... What are you doing all you here?
The ghost, ruff and tights, he realized suddenly the
presence of freshmen.
No one answered.
-¡Alumnos New! said the Fat Friar, smiling at them all. You are
waiting for the selection, right?
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Some nodded.
'I hope I see you in Hufflepuff continued the friar. My old house, and
you know.
-In March said a shrill voice. The Sorting Ceremony will
start.
Professor McGonagall had returned. One by one, the ghosts floated
through the opposite wall.
Form a row Now the teacher said the first year, and
Follow me.
With the strange feeling that his legs were made of lead, Harry got
behind a fair-haired boy, with Ron behind him. They left the room,
They recrossed the hall, went through double doors and entered
the Great Hall.
Harry would never have imagined such a strange and splendid place. It was
illuminated by thousands of candles floating in the air over four
large tables where the other students were already seated. In the
tables were plates, cutlery and cups of gold. On a dais at the head
the dining room, there was another large table where the teachers were sitting. The
Professor McGonagall led there to the freshmen and made
stop and form a line in front of the other students, with their teachers
backs. The hundreds of faces that seemed looked pale lanterns
the bright candlelight. Located between the students, the ghosts
They had a misty silver sheen. To avoid all eyes, Harry lifted
and he saw a roof of black velvet studded with stars. He heard whispering
Hermione: "It's a spell to look like the sky outside, I read in
the history of Hogwarts. "
It was hard to believe that there had roof and the Great Hall did not open
directly to heaven.
Harry looked down quickly, while Professor McGonagall put
silent for a four-legged stool in front of the first year. Above
stool put a pointed wizard hat. The hat was
patched, threadbare and filthy. Aunt Petunia would not have admitted it at home.
Maybe they had to try to pull a rabbit out of the hat, Harry thought something
irreflexiblemente, that was typical of ... Realizing that all the
dining watched the hat, Harry did too. For a
Within seconds, there was complete silence. Then the hat move.
A tear near the border opened wide like a mouth, and hat
he began to sing:
Oh, you think I'm not pretty,
82
but do not judge by what you see.
I'll eat myself if you can find
I smarter hat.
You can have black bowler hats,
tall and elegant hats.
But I'm the Hogwarts Sorting Hat
and I can beat them all.
There is nothing hidden in your head
the Sorting Hat can not see.
So try me and I will tell
where you belong.
You might belong in Gryffindor,
where they dwell the brave.
Their daring, nerve and chivalry
They put aside the Gryffindor.
You might belong in Hufflepuff
where they are just and loyal.
Those patient Hufflepuffs
really they do not fear the heavy lifting.
Or maybe the wise old Ravenclaw,
If you have a willing mind,
because intelligence and erudition
always they find their kind;.
Or perhaps in Slytherin
you do your true friends.
Those cunning folk use any means
to achieve their ends.
83
So try me! Do not be afraid!
And you do not get slapped!
You're in safe hands (though I have none).
Because I'm Thinking Hat.
All the room burst into applause when completed his hat
song. He leaned toward the four tables and then froze another
time.
'Then you just have to try on the hat! Ron whispered to Harry.
I'll kill Fred.
Harry smiled weakly. Yes, trying on hat was better than
having to do a spell, but I would have liked not having to do
in the presence of all. The hat seemed to demand a lot, and Harry did not feel
brave or clever or anything, for now. If the hat had
mentioned a house for people who felt a little unwell, that
it would have been his.
Professor McGonagall stepped forward with a large scroll.
When I call you, you will have to put you hat and sit in the
stool so that you select said. Abbott, Hannah!
A girl in pink face and blond braids I left the line, put on
hat that covered up his eyes, and sat down. A moment's pause.
-¡HUFFLEPUFF Shouted the hat.
The right table clapped as Hannah went to sit with those of
Hufflepuff. Harry saw the ghost of the Fat Friar waving happily to the
girl.
-¡Bones, Susan!
-¡HUFFLEPUFF! He shouted the hat again, and Susan quickly
sit next to Hannah.
-¡Boot, Terry!
-¡RAVENCLAW!
The second table on the left clapped this time. Several Ravenclaws are
They rose to shake hands with Terry as he joined them.
Brocklehurst, Mandy also went to Ravenclaw, but Brown, Lavender
It was the first new Gryffindor, on the far left table,
that erupted in cheers. Harry could see Ron's twin brothers, whistling.
84
Bulstrode, Millicent was a Slytherin. Perhaps it was Harry's imagination;
after all he had heard about Slytherin, but he thought it was a
unpleasant group.
He is beginning to feel decidedly wrong. He recalled what happened in the
fitness classes his old school, when players were chosen
for teams. It had always been the last to be chosen, not because it was
bad, but because no one wanted Dudley to think they wanted.
-¡Finch-Fletchley, Justin!
-¡HUFFLEPUFF!
Harry noticed that, sometimes, the hat shouted the name of the house
immediately, but others it took a while to decide.
-Finnigan, Seamus. The boy with sandy hair, which was
Harry's side in line, he sat for a full minute before the
hat declared him a Gryffindor.
Granger, Hermione.
Hermione almost ran to the stool and put on his hat, very
nervous.
-¡GRYFFINDOR! He shouted the hat. Ron growled.
A horrible thought struck Harry, one of those horrible
thoughts that appear when you are very restless. What if he does not
They elected to any home? And if he remained sitting with hat on
eyes for hours, until Professor McGonagall take it away from the
head to say that it was clear that they were wrong and it was
better to come back on the train?
When Neville Longbottom, the boy who lost his toad, was called, it was
He tripped over the stool. The hat took a long time to decide. When
finally shouted GRYFFINDOR !, Neville ran, still in
hat on and had to return, amid the laughter of everyone, MacDougal,
Morag.
Malfoy stepped forward at his name and immediately got his wish: the
hat barely touched his head and shouted, SLYTHERIN!
Malfoy went to join his friends Crabbe and Goyle, with air
satisfaction.
Not many people left.
Parkinson Nott ... Moon ... ... After a twin, Patil Patil and ... More
Later Perks, Sally-Anne ... and finally:
-¡Potter; Harry!
85
As Harry stepped forward, whispers suddenly spread
like fireworks.
Did you say Potter?
-¿Ese Harry Potter?
The last thing Harry saw before the hat will gourd eyes, was the
room full of people trying to get a good look. The next moment,
He watched the dark interior of the hat. He waited.

Um said a voice in her ear. Difficult. Very difficult. Full of courage,
I see. The mind is not bad. There's talent, oh my, yes, and good
willingness to prove himself, this is very interesting ... So,
Where do I put?
Harry gripped the edges of the stool and thought, "In Slytherin not in
Not Slytherin. "
-In Not Slytherin, eh? said the little voice. Are you sure? You could be
great, you know, you have everything in your head and help you in Slytherin
path to greatness. No doubt, right? Well, if you're sure,
better be Gryffindor!
Harry heard the hat shout the last word to the whole dining room. He removed
hat and she walked, a little dizzy, toward the Gryffindor table. He was so
relieved that I had chosen and he had not put in Slytherin, almost
He did not realize that he received the warmest greetings until now.
Percy the Prefect got up and shook his hand vigorously, while
the Weasley twins yelled, "We got Potter! We got Potter! ". Harry
he sat on the opposite side of the ghost he had seen before. This gave him a
pat on the arm, giving the horrible feeling of having put in a
bucket of ice water.
I could see well the High Table. In the end, close to him, was Hagrid, who
He looked up and thumbs. Harry smiled. And there, in the center of the High Table,
in a golden chair, he sat Albus Dumbledore. Harry recognized
immediately, chromium chocolate frogs. Silver hair
Dumbledore was all so bright as ghosts. Harry also
Professor Quirrell saw the young nervous Leaky Cauldron. I was very
extravagant, with a large purple turban.
And there were only three students to select. A Turpin, Lisa
He played Ravenclaw and then it was his turn to Ron. He had a greenish pallor and
Harry crossed his fingers under the table. A second later the hat
He shouted GRYFFINDOR!
Harry cheered loudly, along with others, while Ron
He collapsed into the nearest chair.
Well done, Ron, excellent pompously said Percy Weasley, by
Harry up while Zabini, Blaise was selected for Slytherin.
86
Professor McGonagall rolled up the scroll and took the Hat
Coach.
Harry looked at his empty gold plate. Just realize what
hungry I was. The cakes seemed something of the past.
Albus Dumbledore had stood. She looked radiant expression
Students with arms wide open, as if nothing could like it more
to see them there.
'Welcome! he said. Welcome to a new year at Hogwarts! Before
we begin our banquet, I want to say a few words. And here
They are, Papanatas! Weeping! Trinkets! Pinch! ... Thank you!
He sat back down. Everyone clapped and cheered. Harry did not know whether to laugh or
no.
... He's a little crazy, right? He asked Percy uncertainly air.
-¿Loco? Percy said to be frivolous. He's a genius! The greatest magician
world! But it's a little crazy, yes. ¿Potatoes, Harry?
Harry's mouth dropped open. The dishes we had in front of him
Soon they were full of food. I had never seen so many things that
like to eat on a table: roast beef, roast chicken, pork chops and
beef, sausage, bacon and steaks, cooked, baked and fried potatoes, pudding,
peas, carrots, gravy, ketchup and, for some strange
why mints.
The Dursleys had never starved Harry, but neither will
They were allowed to eat whatever I wanted. Dudley always served what
Harry wanted, but did not like. Harry filled his plate with a little bit of everything,
except mints, and he began to eat. Everything was delicious.
'That is very good,' said the ghost sadly aspect of the gorge,
He is watching Harry as he cut his steak.
Can isn't ...?
'I have not eaten since about four years ago said the ghost.
I do not need, of course, but one misses it. I do not think I
presented, right? Sir Nicholas de Mimsy-Porpington at your service.
Resident ghost of Gryffindor Tower.
-¡Yo Know who you are! said Ron suddenly. My brother me
He told. You're Nearly Headless Nick!
I'd prefer to call me Sir Nicholas de Mimsy ... he began
Ghost say sternly, but Seamus Finnigan interrupted, that of
sandy hair.
Headless -¿Casi? How can you be nearly headless?
87
Sir Nicholas seemed very upset, as if the conversation does not result
as he had planned.
So he said angrily. He grabbed his left ear and pulled. Teda his head
He broke his neck and fell on his shoulder, as if a hinge.
It was obvious that someone had tried to behead him, but had not
done well. He seemed pleased at the faces of amazement and she put
head in place, coughed and said: So new Gryffindors! I hope this
year support us to win the championship for the house. Gryffindor has never
so long without winning. Slytherin has won the cup six times in a row!
The Bloody Baron has become unbearable ... He is the ghost
Slytherin.
Harry looked at the Slytherin table and saw a horrible ghost sitting
there, expressionless eyes and a haggard face and clothes stained
silver blood. It was right next to Malfoy, Harry saw with
gladly, he did not seem very happy with their presence.
How come it's all full of blood? He asked Seamus with great
interest.
I never said I did not ask Nearly Headless Nick delicately.
When they had eaten all they wanted, leftovers
They disappeared from the dishes, leaving them as clean as before. One moment
Later came the desserts. Chunks of ice all tastes
one could imagine; apple pies, treacle tarts, lightning
chocolate, jelly donuts, Babas, strawberries, jelly,
rice pudding ...
While Harry a cake was served, the conversation focused on
families.
'I'm half and half said Seamus. My father is a muggle. Mom will not
She said she was a witch until they married. It was a surprise something
unpleasant for him.
The others laughed.
'And you, Neville? Ron said.
Well, my grandmother raised me and she is a witch said Neville, but the
family thought I was all muggle, for years. My uncle Algie
I was surprised to careless and force some magic out
my. Once I almost drowned when he tried to jump into the water at the port of
Blackpool, but nothing happened until I was eight. Uncle Algie
I had gone to tea and I had caught the ankles and hanging from a
upstairs window when my aunt Enid offered him a meringue and
he accidentally let go. But I bounced all the way, in the garden and
street. All were very happy. My grandmother was so happy I cried.
And you should have seen their faces when I came here. They thought there would be so
magic to come. Uncle Algie was so pleased that I
88
He bought my toad.
Across Harry, Percy Weasley and Hermione were talking about
classes. ("I hope they start soon, there is much to learn, I am
particularly interested in Transfiguration, you know, make something
otherwise, of course it seems to be very difficult. You have to start with
small, such as matches on things and all that ... ")
Harry, beginning to feel comforted and sleepy, looked again
to the High Table. Hagrid drank copiously from his glass. The teacher
McGonagall was talking to Professor Dumbledore. Professor Quirrell, his
absurd turban, he was talking to a professor at greasy black hair, nose
hooked and sallow skin.
Everything happened very quickly. The hook-nosed teacher looked
Quirrell's turban above, in the eye of Harry ... and a pain
Acute hit Harry in the scar on his forehead.
Alas! Harry took a hand to the head.
-what You happened? He asked Percy
N-nothing.
The pain disappeared as suddenly as it had appeared. it was difficult
forget the feeling I had when Professor Harry looked at him, a feeling
they did not like at all.
Who is the one speaking with Professor Quirrell? he asked
Percy.
Oh, you know Quirrell already, then? Not so oddly enough
nervous, that's Professor Snape. Its subject is Potions, but does not like ...
Everyone knows he wants the post of Quirrell. Snape knows a lot
about the Dark Arts.
Harry watched Snape for a while, but the teacher looked at him.
Finally, the desserts too disappeared, and Professor Dumbledore
I got back on its feet. The whole room was silent.
Ahem ... just a few more words now that we've all eaten and
drunk. I have a few announcements to make you to the beginning of the year.
"The first year must take into account that the area of ​​forests
Castle is prohibited for all students. And a few of our
Alumni also should remember.
The gleaming eyes of Dumbledore pointed toward the twins
Weasley.
'Mr Filch, the caretaker, has asked me to remind you that you must
89
do magic at recess or in the hallways.
"Quidditch tests will take place in the second week of the course.
Those who are interested in playing for their house teams should
contact Madam Hooch.
"And finally, I want to say that this year the third floor corridor, the
right side is outside the permitted limits for all who do not wish
very painful death.
Harry laughed, but it was one of the few who did.
I -¿Lo meant? Percy muttered.
'I think so,' said Percy, frowning at Dumbledore. It's weird, because
usually it tells us why we can not go somewhere. By
example, the forest is full of dangerous animals, everyone knows it. I think
that, at least, he must report it to us prefects.
'And now, before we go to bed, let us sing the song
school! Dumbledore said. Harry noticed that the smiles of others
Teachers had become somewhat strained.
Dumbledore waved his wand, as if trying to catch a fly, and
long strip appeared golden, rose on the tables, stirred as a
snake and he became words.
-May each choose their favorite tune! Dumbledor- said. And there
come on!
And the whole school shouted:
Hogwarts, Hogwarts, Hogwarts,
teach us something, please.
While we're old and bald
or youth with dirty knees,
our minds can be filled
with some interesting materials.
Because they are now empty and filled with air,
dead fleas and some fluff.
So teach us things worth knowing,
do you remember what you forgot,
90
do the best you can, we do the rest,
and we learn until our brains are consumed.
Each finished the song at different times. In the end, only the
Weasley twins were still singing, to the tune of a slow march
funereal. Dumbledore led them to the last words, with his wand and,
When they finished, it was one of those who applauded more enthusiastically.

Oh, the music! he said, wiping his eyes. A magic beyond
all we do here! And now it's time to go to bed. Come to trot!
The Gryffindor first year followed Percy through groups
boisterous, they left the Great Hall and up the marble staircase.
Harry's legs were like lead again, but only for the excess
tiredness and food. I was so asleep that neither was surprised to see that the
people in the portraits along the corridors whispered and pointed to
spend; or when Percy twice made them pass through hidden doors
behind sliding panels and tapestries hanging on the walls. They climbed
more stairs, yawning and shuffling, and when Harry started
to wonder how much longer should continue, they stopped suddenly.
Canes floating in the air above them, and when Percy
approached began to fall on him.
-Peeves Percy whispered to the first year-. It is an elf, which in
movies called poltergeist. He raised his voice: Peeves appears.
The answer was a loud and rude noise, as if a balloon is deflate