#Commercial Doors Surrey

[astralsecuritywindows]

Elevate your business with our robust commercial doors in Surrey. Designed for high traffic areas, these doors provide excellent security, durability, and ease of access. Perfect for any commercial property, our doors are customisable to meet your specific needs. Request a free quote today!

[jorichingsuk]

THERMACOUSTIC LTD

Thermacoustic Ltd has worked with top independent sound consultants with whom we have developed procedures which have culminated in THERMACOUSTIC LTD being prepared to offer clients a minimum performance guarantee to meet the requirements of building regulation E, when required for air-borne and impact noise.

https://thermacoustic.co.uk/

[corkcitylibraries]

Goad Plans of Cork City!

The dedicated Cork City Libraries Local History website, Cork Past and Present, has recently had an interesting addition made in the shape of Insurance plans for the commercial heart of the City. The wide selection of maps details the changing landscape and businesses that filled the city centre from 1897 to 1961!

Cork City Libraries hold copies of seventeen editions of the Goad plans for Cork City, from 1897 to 1961. These are held in five bindings in our Local Studies and Learning Department. The ‘key plan’ on the first sheet of each edition provides a graphic outline of areas represented in more detail on maps 2-16 of each edition. Under the key plan (in PDF form in these webpages), a selective index of streets, buildings, and firms is included. The scale of the detailed plans is one inch to forty feet (1:480) on the original paper copies. Fire insurance plans were first drawn up in the late eighteenth century to provide risk information to fire insurance underwriters.

Charles Edward Goad, born in Surrey in 1848, moved to Canada in 1869, where he became a renowned cartographer and railway engineer. The firm of Charles E. Goad was established in Montreal in 1875 and became the leading producer of fire insurance plans for 1,300 places in Canada, before he returned to Britain in 1885 to produce insurance plans for the commercial sections of more than 100 towns in Britain and Ireland, along with surveying places in other countries.

Fire insurance companies had an interest in preventing fires to insured properties, and firefighters (often private) needed detailed information regarding access to water, routes to building, room arrangements, locations of doors & windows, thickness of walls, information on construction materials, type of roof, locations of combustible materials, water-works system, etc. Charles Goad died in Toronto in 1910. Goad insurance plans now provide an excellent information source for historians, geographers, architects, environmentalists and genealogists.

[fraservalleygaragedoors]

Fraser Valley Garage Doors

Address:

2150 124 St, Surrey, BC V4A 3M5, CANADA

Phone:

(778) 791-3667

Website

business email

info@fraservalleygaragedoors.ca

keywords

Garage Door Repair Surrey, Garage Door Repair White Rock, Garage Door Repair Delta, Garage Door Repair Langley, Garage Door Repair Maple Ridge, Garage Door Repair Abbotsford, Overhead Door Repair, Garage Door Spring Repair, Garage Door Roller Replacement, Garage Door Cable Replacement, Garage Door Repair, Garage Door Panel Repair

Description

At Fraser Valley Garage Door Repair, we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch garage door services with a blend of efficiency, reliability, and exceptional customer care. With several years of experience under our belts, we have become a trusted name in the Fraser Valley region for both residential and commercial garage door solutions. Our team of highly trained technicians is adept at handling a range of services, including installation, repair, maintenance, and replacement of garage doors and openers.

We believe in the importance of quality and affordability, which is why we stock only the finest products from reputable manufacturers, ensuring that our customers receive the best in durability and functionality. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our meticulous attention to detail, from the initial assessment and consultation to the execution of repairs or installations. We understand that a malfunctioning garage door can disrupt your routine and compromise your security, so we offer prompt and efficient service to get you back on track with minimal hassle.

We are pleased to say that we operate in Langley, Surrey, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Mission, Maple Ridge, Aldergrove, Delta, Fort Langley, White Rock.

What sets us apart is our unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction. We are not just a service provider; we are partners in ensuring the safety and convenience of your property. Our expert garage door technicians are available to provide tailored advice and solutions, answering any questions you might have and explaining our process every step of the way. We are proud to have built a reputation for integrity and transparency, with a strong focus on maintaining long-term relationships with our clients. Our numerous positive reviews and referrals stand as a testament to the high standards we uphold.

At Fraser Valley Garage Door Repair, our mission is to be your go-to specialist for all your garage door needs. We are continually evolving, embracing the latest technologies and innovations to stay ahead in our field. Whether you need a quick fix or are looking to upgrade your garage door system, we have the expertise and resources to deliver results that exceed your expectations. Choose us for a seamless, hassle-free experience backed by the assurance of quality and professionalism.

Garage door spring repair is an essential service that ensures the smooth operation and longevity of your garage door system. The springs are fundamental components, responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door as it opens and closes. Over time, due to regular wear and tear, these springs can weaken or break, posing a significant safety hazard if not addressed promptly.

At Fraser Valley Garage Door Repair, we specialize in the repair and replacement of both torsion and extension springs. Our expert garage door technicians are trained to handle a variety of spring-related issues, using high-quality materials that meet industry standards for durability and performance. When dealing with garage door springs, safety is our top priority. We employ precise techniques and tools to ensure that each repair is conducted safely and efficiently, minimizing the risk of injury.

Regular maintenance and timely repairs of your garage door springs can prevent more serious damage to your entire door system. If you notice signs of wear, such as gaps in the coils, excessive noise during operation, or difficulty in opening and closing the door, it’s crucial to seek professional assistance immediately. Trust Fraser Valley Garage Door Repair to deliver reliable and consistent spring repair services, keeping your garage door functioning optimally and securely.

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Payment Methods-

Accept all Major credit / debit cards and all e-transfers and cash payments

[citycountry0]

Expert Door Installation in Vancouver: Transform Your Space with Professional Precision

The Importance of Professional Door Installation

Security

A well-installed door is the first line of defense against potential intruders. Professional installers ensure that doors are fitted correctly, with locks and hinges aligned perfectly to prevent easy break-ins. This attention to detail is crucial for both residential and commercial properties, Door Installation Vancouver providing peace of mind to homeowners and business operators alike.

Energy Efficiency

Doors play a significant role in the thermal efficiency of a building. Poorly installed doors can lead to drafts, increasing heating and cooling costs. Professional installers in Vancouver use precise techniques to ensure that doors are sealed correctly, contributing to the energy efficiency of the building. This not only reduces utility bills but also minimizes the environmental footprint.

  Aesthetic Appeal

The right door can enhance the visual appeal of a home or office. Whether it's a sleek modern design or a classic wooden door, professional installation ensures that the door fits seamlessly into its frame, creating a polished and refined look. Expert installers can also provide custom solutions that align with the architectural style and personal preferences of the client.

Functionality and Durability

A door that is not installed correctly can cause numerous issues, such as sticking, squeaking, or not closing properly. Professional door installers ensure that doors operate smoothly and are durable enough to withstand daily use. This extends the lifespan of the door and reduces the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

Choosing the Right Door Installation Service in Vancouver

Expertise and Experience

When selecting a door installation service, it's essential to choose a company with a proven track record. Experienced installers bring a wealth of knowledge to the job, ensuring that every aspect of the installation is handled with precision. Look for companies with positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied customers.

Range of Services

A reputable door installation service in Vancouver should offer a wide range of options, including interior and exterior doors, sliding doors, French doors, and custom designs. This variety allows clients to find the perfect solution for their specific needs and preferences.

Quality of Materials

The quality of the materials used in door installation is just as important as the installation process itself. Leading door installation companies in Vancouver source high-quality doors and hardware, House Renovation Surrey ensuring that the final product is both beautiful and durable.

Customer Service

Excellent customer service is a hallmark of a professional door installation company. From the initial consultation to the final installation, clients should expect clear communication, timely updates, and a commitment to satisfaction. A company that prioritizes customer service will go the extra mile to ensure that every detail meets the client's expectations.

[cambergaragedoor]

Looking for high-quality garage doors in Surrey? Look no further! We are a trusted garage doors Surrey, offering a wide range of top-notch garage doors to suit every need and budget. Whether you need residential, commercial, or custom garage doors, we have you covered.

[acewindowsanddoors]

Hello, everyone! I'm Mark Reeves, the proud owner of Ace Windows & Doors Company, located in High Street, Cheam, United Kingdom. At Ace Windows & Doors, we are dedicated to providing top-notch UPVC windows and doors in Sutton, as well as being a premier UPVC windows supplier in Sutton and Croydon. We also specialize in Bifolding Doors, Skylights, and glass and glazing services in Sutton. Our expertise extends to UPVC repairs and we offer manufacturing and installation services to ensure the highest quality results for our customers. Serving the surrounding areas of London and Surrey, we are committed to delivering excellence in windows and doors for residential and commercial properties.

[surreypaintingcompany]

Surrey Painting Company

From wood refinishing that restores past glory to metal paintings shielding structural elements from corrosion – we cover it all! Plus detailed roof paintings protect and improve homes’ overall appeal. Our varied paint finishing techniques ensure durable protection against harsh climates enveloping every corner from window frames to garage doors.

Contact Us:

Surrey Painting Company

Address: 2880 152 St #31, Surrey, BC, V4P 1G6

Phone: 604-210-3601

Email: contact@surreypaintingcompany.ca

Website: https://surreypaintingcompany.ca/

Company Hours: Monday to Friday:08:00 - 18:00

External Links:

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[caulfieldpaintings]

The Palette of Possibilities: Services Offered by Painters in Surrey Hills

Surrey Hills, an affluent suburb in Melbourne, boasts picturesque homes and businesses that often require a touch of colour and finesse to maintain their aesthetic appeal. Professional painters in Surrey Hills offer a wide range of services to cater to the diverse painting needs of the community. In this guide, we explore the various services provided by painters in Surrey Hills, highlighting the palette of possibilities available to transform spaces.

Interior Painting

Professional painters in Ringwood excel in interior painting services, enhancing the ambience and aesthetics of homes and businesses. They skillfully apply paint to walls, ceilings, doors, and trim, using high-quality paints and techniques to ensure a smooth and flawless finish.

Exterior Painting

Exterior painting is essential to maintain the exterior appearance and protect the structure from the elements. Painters in Surrey Hills offer expertise in selecting suitable exterior paints, preparing surfaces, and applying coatings to achieve a durable and attractive finish for homes, offices, and commercial buildings.

Color Consultation

Choosing the right colour palette can be challenging. Painters in Surrey Hills often provide colour consultation services to help clients select colours that complement their preferences, architecture, and surrounding environment. Professional advice ensures a harmonious and visually appealing result.

Feature Wall Design

Creating feature walls is a popular trend in interior design. Painters in Surrey Hills specialize in designing and painting feature walls that accentuate specific areas of a room, adding depth, character, and style to the overall décor.

Specialized Finishes

Professional painters offer specialized finishes such as textured, faux, or metallic finishes to add uniqueness and elegance to walls and surfaces. These finishes create visual interest and provide a custom look to suit individual preferences.

Cabinet and Furniture Painting

Revamping cabinets and furniture with a fresh coat of paint can transform the look of a room. Painters in Surrey Hills possess the expertise to paint and refinish cabinets and furniture, giving them a new lease on life and integrating them seamlessly into the interior design.

Whether it's a residential home or a commercial establishment, professional painters in Surrey Hills provide the skills and creativity to bring your vision to life through the power of colour and design.

Source

[abbotsfordmortgages]

Navigating Your Path to Homeownership with Sandhu & Sran Mortgages

Are you dreaming of owning your first home in the beautiful communities of Abbotsford or Surrey? Or perhaps you're considering a commercial property venture in these bustling cities? Look no further than Sandhu & Sran Mortgages – your trusted partners in making your real estate aspirations a reality.

First Time Home Buyer Services: Your Key to Unlocking the Door to Your Dream Home

Purchasing your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a daunting process. Sandhu & Sran Mortgages is here to guide you every step of the way. Our experienced mortgage specialists understand the unique needs of first-time homebuyers and will assist you in finding the perfect mortgage solution tailored to your financial situation.

Renewal or Transfer: Seamlessly Transition to New Mortgage Terms

Is your current mortgage term coming to an end? Sandhu & Sran Mortgages can help you navigate the renewal or transfer process. We work diligently to secure competitive rates and terms that align with your financial goals, ensuring a smooth transition without unnecessary stress.

Commercial Mortgage Expertise: Fuel Your Business Ventures

For entrepreneurs and business owners, Sandhu & Sran Mortgages offers specialized commercial mortgage services. Whether you're expanding your business, acquiring a new property, or refinancing an existing one, our team possesses the knowledge and connections to secure the financing you need to drive your business forward.

Construction Mortgage Solutions: Building the Future You Envision

Embarking on a construction project requires a unique financial approach. Our experts at Sandhu & Sran Mortgages specialize in construction mortgages, helping you secure the necessary funds to bring your vision to life. From residential developments to commercial spaces, we're committed to supporting your construction endeavors.

Why Choose Sandhu & Sran Mortgages?

Local Expertise: As active members of the Abbotsford and Surrey communities, we understand the local real estate market dynamics, giving us a competitive edge in finding the best mortgage solutions for you.

Personalized Approach: We recognize that every client's financial situation is unique. Our personalized approach ensures that you receive tailored advice and solutions that align with your goals.

Vast Network: With strong relationships with lenders and financial institutions, we have access to a wide range of mortgage options, enabling us to secure favorable terms on your behalf.

Transparent Communication: At Sandhu & Sran Mortgages, transparency is a cornerstone of our service. We keep you informed at every step of the process, ensuring you understand the details of your mortgage arrangement.

Your Journey Starts Here

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, a business owner, or a visionary builder, Sandhu & Sran Mortgages is your dedicated partner in achieving your real estate dreams in Abbotsford and Surrey. Our commitment to exceptional service, combined with our in-depth expertise, sets us apart as your trusted mortgage advisors. Begin your journey to homeownership, financial growth, or construction success today. Contact Sandhu & Sran Mortgages to explore your options and take the first step toward a brighter future.

[localizee]

We offer an emergency locksmith service to all customers within the London, Kent and Surrey area.

[jorichingsuk]

Details Presentation THERMACOUSTIC LTD

Thermacoustic Ltd has worked with top independent sound consultants with whom we have developed procedures which have culminated in THERMACOUSTIC LTD being prepared to offer clients a minimum performance guarantee to meet the requirements of building regulation E, when required for air-borne and impact noise.The best specification in the world can fail a sound test if it is not installed correctly leading to considerable additional expense of re-work and further sound tests. These are non-budgeted costs for which no one wants to accept responsibility.

3 Ferry Road,Shoreham By Sea,West Sussex,BN43 5RA

01903 717009

sales@thermacoustic.co.uk

[comfortdoors]

Things to Know Before Choosing A Garage Door

Commercial Garage Door Service Surrey ! Commercial garage doors play a vital role in the market. These doors are available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and materials as per need. Some main types of commercial doors are fire-rated doors, overhead doors, roll-up doors, and scissor gates. Each of them has its significance in terms of function. Comfort Doors help you to opt for the best door for you.

[thedoorace]

Door Ace offers a wide range of residential and commercial overhead garage doors and gates services, such as: sales, installation of new products, repair and maintenance. Our team takes a great deal of pride in their work and strives for one hundred percent customer satisfaction. We stand by the quality of their services and the products they offer. Specialties Garage door specialist History Established in 2017. 

 Meet the Business Owner Business owner information Photo of John S. John S. Business Owner John Samuel Operated manager of Door Ace ----------------------------------------

 AREA'S WE SERVE Vancouver North, Vancouver West, Vancouver Burnaby, Port Moody Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam ,Pitt Meadows Maple Ridge, Langley Surrey, White Rock Delta, New Westminster Richmond ,

[writingmyselfout]

Because I Could Not Stop for Death - Chapter One

Language: English

Rating: Teen+

Pairing: Hermione Granger/Harry Potter

Tags: AU - Canon Divergence, Reptilia28′s Don’t Fear the Reaper Challenge, Manipulative Dumbledore, Black Hermione Granger, Slight Ron Weasley Bashing

Prologue

Chapter 1: Death Tore the Pages All Away (2/?)

Summary: Harry's final chance begins...

HARRY Potter awakes to the sound of heavy footsteps pounding down the stairs, alerting him to the fact that his cousin Dudley was awake. Soon, either his Aunt Petunia or his Uncle Vernon would note that he had not yet gotten up and call for him. Unless they very specifically didn’t want to see him, he wasn’t allowed to linger in bed late into the day unlike his cousin. Still, he finds himself not quite ready to get up as he tried to remember what he’d been dreaming of just moments ago.

    He has this lingering sense of déjà vu, but can’t quite place why, and a niggling feeling in the back of his mind makes him think that whatever he’d been dreaming of was important. Try as he might, though, he just can’t recapture any of it. Not a word or image to even  hint at what it might have been. Finally, after a few minutes, he heaves a sigh, opens his eyes, and sits up in bed, careful not to hit his head on one of the shelves.

    Not for the first time, he wonders what the Dursleys will do when he becomes too big to fit in the bed wedged into the cupboard. A part of him hopes it will force them to give him the spare second bedroom upstairs, but another worries and thinks it more likely that he will have to forever fit himself into this tiny little space. It might be best then for him to stay rather small as he gets older.

    “Get up, boy!”

    There it is, Uncle Vernon realizing he’s still in bed. Without further hesitation, he gets his glasses on and gets up out of bed. His nose wrinkles as he opens his door and the faint whiff of whatever is happening in the kitchen. It’s not until he’s finished washing up and goes into the kitchen that he finds out that the smell is coming from his soon-to-be new Stonewall High uniform. Hopefully, his looking like he was dressed in giant flabs of elephant skin wouldn’t keep him from enjoying his Dudley-free school life, but somehow he doubts it’ll do much in the way of keeping him from becoming the target for other bullies. At least with bullies unrelated to him, he’ll only have to deal with them at school, and if he has to fight back, he’s less likely to get in trouble the way he would if he tried to ever hit Dudley. He can already imagine the amount of trouble that even just thinking about hitting his cousin back would result in, even if it is in self-defense.

    There is suddenly the sound of the mail slot opening as the post arrives, and without looking up from his newspaper, Uncle Vernon says, “Dudley, go get the mail.”  

    Unsurprisingly, his cousin whines and Harry instead is the one made to get it. His inner grumbling about his cousin’s laziness is halted as he spots his name in the pile, written in fancy script on an envelope between what is likely a bill and a postcard from Vernon’s nightmare of a sister, Aunt Marge. The green ink on the thick yellow paper--unlike any he’s seen before--sparks that same déjà vu feeling from before, only this time he does remember something.

    The Dursleys will take this letter; hide it.

    It’s as if the words are spoken in his ear, and he doesn’t quite know where the thought comes from. He’s certain as soon as he thinks it, however, that it’s right. Who hasn’t the faintest idea of who might be writing him, but whoever it may be, he can’t imagine his aunt or uncle allowing him to know the contents, regardless of whether it was meant for him or not. They hadn’t asked him about the school he wanted to go to, he was never allowed to go anywhere even on the rare occasions over the years that he’d been invited by other students or their parents to partake in birthday parties or outings, and aside from his sometimes-babysitter Mrs. Figg and the other kids or adults he encountered at school, he was virtually kept isolated from strangers otherwise. No, it is best he keep this to himself, at least until he’s gotten a chance to read what it says.

    With no hesitation, he slides the letter under the doormat, checking to make sure that stepping on the mat makes no sound, before quickly heading to the kitchen. He’d considered hiding it in his pants, but his clothes are so loose and baggy, he can’t be sure the letter would have stayed unnoticed. Instead, he hopes by hiding it under the mat, he can get to it later when no one is paying him any attention. It takes every ounce of patience he has to sit through breakfast, listening to Uncle Vernon tell Petunia about Marge’s postcard, and for them to discuss her vacation and whether or not they should look into a trip as well. He’s careful to not let his eyes stray out of the room or seem impatient, but he nearly groans when he’s ordered to clean the kitchen up while Petunia goes to hang her horridly home-dyed uniform for him in the yard to dry. His uncle and Dudley go to watch TV, their version of father-son bonding time, as Uncle Vernon always took additional days off throughout the summer to spend more time with Dudley.

    He had hoped to immediately grab the letter to read upon finishing the dishes, but as soon as he’s done, he’s roped into helping in the garden. His aunt insists on keeping the garden as immaculate as possible, but it’s Harry who does most of the work to maintain it, and during the summer it meant slaving away at it in the middle of the hot afternoons. Normally, he only minds the heat, but is otherwise fine with it as it means he’s out of sight when Dudley’s friends arrive and his cousin is unlikely to interrupt him mid-chore. Today, however, his mind strays to the letter waiting to be read. All he wants is to get a few moments alone to read it, sate his curiosity, and decide if it’s worth telling his family about.

    Of course, that means today is a day he is kept busy non-stop. After washing up, he’s sent upstairs to wash up because his aunt can’t stand the smell of him, and then told to clean the bathroom while he’s up there. Nevermind that he missed lunch while out in the garden. He’s lucky she remembered to set out a glass of water for him. When he’s done, he’s set to mind the dinner Aunt Petunia began cooking, as the phone rings and she instead sits gossipping on the phone. Then he’s made to clean up afterwards again, only for his aunt to call for him to make some tea to bring in to them before he’s even finished.

    He comes in just as the show they’re watching cuts to a commercial break. Shots of a family in a circular raft on water, shouting and laughing as they go down a river to some upbeat music that then cuts to a newly open ride called the Dive Bomber, and an announcer enthusiastically encouraging all and sundry come and check it out with the kids, assuring great family memories were to be made. It is barely over before Dudley is on his feet, demanding his parents take him. Harry appreciates the excited shouts, sure that his aunt and uncle will pay him little to no mind as they attempt to placate their spoiled son.

    “Duddey-kins,” Aunt Petunia starts. “Ilkeston is quite far, my darling.”

    “Near three hours,” Uncle Vernon agrees. “Not sure it would be worth the money.”

    Dudley stomps his foot and Harry slowly moves back to leave the room. “I don’t care ! We have to go! I want to!”

    Petunia is the first to cave, as she always is, and turns to Vernon. “We could rent a room, do a short weekend trip?” She stands up to put an arm around Dudley, the both of them giving Vernon their own pleading looks. “A late birthday gift, to make up for that horrid trip to the zoo.” Harry freezes where he’s standing just inside the doorway at the mention of the zoo trip as eyes flicker briefly in his direction. He shifts from one foot to the other, trying to seem semi-interested in the conversation if only to not arouse suspicion, but he’s frankly more interested in the letter.

    “I suppose a small trip would be nice,” Vernon says slowly.

    He may as well have said yes, and they all know it. Dudley breaks out into a grin, going on and on about how jealous his friends will be. Then he stops, throws a malicious grin in Harry’s direction, and suddenly adds, “But he can’t come! He’ll ruin it like he did the zoo!”

    This time, Vernon half turns on the couch to look at Harry, then back to his wife. “Mrs. Figgs is better, right? See if she can take the boy for a few days in a week or two--”

    “A week ?” Dudley is indignant. “It’s Wednesday, why not this weekend? Let’s go this weekend!”

    Aunt Petunia places a calming hand on his shoulder. “I’ll call tomorrow, sweetums, and we’ll see what she says. If she can take Harry, you can invite Piers to come with us.” She is careful not to specify that it might not be that weekend.

    It does the trick, and soon their attention is back on the television. Harry slips out of the room, grabs the letter from under the mat, and then makes his way to the cupboard. Finally, he can see what this is about.

    The light in his cupboard is dim, but he can still make out his name on the front in the fanciest script he can ever recall seeing.

Mr. H. Potter

The Cupboard Under the Stairs

4, Privet Drive

Little Whinging

Surrey

    He only now notices the rest of the address and frowns. How do they know where he sleeps? He flips it over and runs a finger over the wax seal, feeling the ridges of its design and holding it up closer to his face to study the seal, only just making out that there are four animals surrounding a capital letter ‘H’. The snake and lion are easy enough to make out, but he can’t quite make out the last two. A bird and a fox, perhaps? He’ll have to try and see it in better lighting later.

    Carefully, he picks at the seal with a nail until he can get a finger under, trying to keep it as intact as possible. There’s a novelty to getting his first ever letter, addressed to him personally. Once he gets the seal off, he opens it, smoothing it out and moving the letter closer to his face to better making it all out.

HOGWARTS SCHOOL of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY

Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore

(Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock, Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. Of Wizards)

Dear Mr. Potter,

We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment.

Term begins on 1 September. We await your owl by no later than 31 July.

Yours Sincerely,

Minerva McGonagall

Deputy Headmistress

    Harry blinks at the letter in disbelief, not quite believing what he’s reading. If it weren’t for the fact that he knows how much they despise magic and such, he might think this was an elaborate prank his aunt and uncle were playing on him. It could still be a prank, he thinks, but by who and for what purpose? Dudley wasn’t smart enough to pull something like this off, and his friends wouldn’t think to do something like this either. He also doubted that his cousin could’ve managed to not give something away had he been keeping a prank secret. No, this was either someone else’s doing entirely or the thing was real.

    That previous feeling of déjà vu hits him again, though he can’t quite place what about the letter is causing it. He flips to the second page, curiosity momentarily overtaking his confusion and doubt.

HOGWARTS SCHOOL of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY

UNIFORM

First-year students will require:

Three sets of plain work robes (black)

One plain pointed hat (black) for day wear

One pair of protective gloves (dragon hide or similar)

One winter cloak (black, with silver fastenings)

Please note that all pupils’ clothes should carry name tags.

COURSE BOOKS

All students should have a copy of each of the following:

The Standard Book of Spells (Grade 1) by Miranda Goshawk

A History of Magic by Bathilda Bagshot

Magical Theory by Adalbert Waffling

A Beginner’s Guide to Transfiguration by Emeric Switch

One Thousand Magical Herbs and Fungi by Phyllida Spore

Magical Drafts and Potions by Arsenius Jigger

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them by Newt Scamander

The Dark Forces: A Guide to Self-Protection by Quentin Trimble

OTHER EQUIPMENT

1 wand

1 cauldron (pewter, standard size 2)

1 set glass or crystal phials

1 telescope

1 set brass scales

Students may also bring, if they desire, an owl OR a cat OR a toad.

PARENTS ARE REMINDED THAT FIRST YEARS ARE NOT ALLOWED THEIR OWN BROOMSTICKS.

Yours sincerely,

Lucinda Thomsonicle-Pocus

Chief Attendant of Witchcraft Provisions

    Very carefully, he folds the letter back up, then folds it even smaller to hide it under his pillow. His mind is racing, trying to process it all. If this is a joke, it’s a very thorough one. It looks so official, though, that it’s hard to think who would go through this level of effort to fool him. And to what end? He can’t figure that out.

    If it’s real, though, he’s not sure that’s any better. A school for witchcraft and wizardry, accepting him as a student? He remembers talking to the snake at the zoo on Dudley’s birthday, and the glass disappearing, plus all the other weird, unexplainable things that had happened to him before. In light of this letter, it all suddenly seemed to make much more sense. But how? Perhaps from his parents? It might explain why his aunt and uncle refused to talk about them or the accident that killed them, considering how much they despised all talk of magic.

    He couldn’t imagine, then, that they would be happy about this letter, much less at the thought of him even attending. No amount of begging on his part has ever worked to get them to give him anything he’s ever wanted, and somehow he doubts this will play out any differently. But without their approval, how can he hope to afford even half the things on this list? Where would he even buy it all even if he could somehow convince the Dursleys to not just let him attend this mysterious school, but also part with enough money to buy him his supplies?

    The questions plague his thoughts, keeping him awake long after the rest of the house has turned in, and he’s sure they haunt his dreams for he wakes up still thinking of the letter. It keeps his mind occupied and distracted from all else, earning him a few shouts when he fails to do as he’s told all morning, until finally Vernon takes Dudley’s smelting stick and hits Harry with it.

    He yelps in surprise, instinctively moving away as he rubs at his shoulder. Uncle Vernon is holding the stick out, arm almost fully extended, and the thinks the shoulder blow might have been a hit to the head had he been slightly closer. He wonders automatically if Hogwarts has dorms. They probably do, right? Meaning he could live most of the year away from the constant threat of verbal and physical abuse, and maybe that was worth trying to make the impossible possible after all.

    “Are you listening, boy?” Vernon demands. Harry mutters an apology. “Pack a bag. We’re dropping you off in the morning to Mrs. Figg’s for the weekend.”

    Harry nods his head, wondering if he can use the time away from the Dursleys to his advantage. If he can’t figure out a way to make this school work without telling them, he can at least figure out how to bring it up once their trip is done so that they might be inclined to let him go. After all, the letter had clearly stated a response was required by 31 July, his birthday, so he only had six days left to work something out.

~~~

WHEN they drop him off at Mrs. Figg’s house, it’s all Harry can do to hide the fact that’s actually quite glad to not be going on this mini-vacation with his family. Especially as any sign that he was happy while they were all grumpy would likely not go over well. Dudley had made his displeasure at having to wake up early on a vacation day quite plain, and no amount of pointing out that it was for the trip he’d wanted was going to change that. But Vernon was also not much of a morning person, and his own patience had worn to the point that he’d threatened to cancel the trip when Dudley had finally complained one too many times. Which resulted in a minor tantrum, until Petunia promised him all sorts of treats would be bought at the park that they couldn’t get at the store. She’d been pinching the bridge of her nose the way she did when she had a headache, so she was ready to promise just about anything to get some quiet.

    They were going to be in for a long trip, Harry thinks. They still had to pick up Piers, and then drive three hours.

    “Come on then, Harry,” Mrs. Figg tells him after they’ve watched the Dursleys drive off. “You have breakfast? ‘S quite early, I imagine you might have been too tired for it.”

    “Breakfast would be nice,” he agrees.

    Really, he wants to put the plan he thought up into action. He had slipped the letter into his shoe, just in case Petunia wanted to check his bag before they left this morning. All night, he had pondered over his dilemma and perhaps actually reached a solution. Plenty of the more expensive schools offered scholarships, so perhaps he could reach out to the headmistress and ask about it. Having never heard of the school, he isn’t sure what requirements for scholarships they might have, but he figures asking won’t hurt. Plus, at least he can make his wanting to attend clear, so maybe if he can’t get his aunt and uncle to agree by the deadline, he might buy himself some extra time to convince them. He really wishes he’d received the letter more than a week before they needed his response.

    So he plans to write to them. Coming to Mrs. Figgs would help, as she would likely agree to let him use some pen and paper of hers to write it, and if he said it was for a school thing, maybe she wouldn’t bring it up to the Dursleys, figuring it was something they already knew about. At the very least, she’s not likely to stop him from writing the letter. Perhaps she might actually help him send it out, considering the one he’d received has no return address, and so he’s not sure how to actually get his letter to the school.

    After breakfast, she shows him to her guest room so he can put his things away. She’s barely left him when he pulls the letter from his shoe and then follows her back out into the living room, where she immediately sits down, sets her crutches aside, and props a leg up before reaching for some knitting next to her couch.

    “Mrs. Figg,” Harry starts. “Could I get some pen and paper? I needed to write something for school.”

    “Oh? Homework already?” She looks up at him, smiling. “There’s some stationary at the desk over there. Help yourself. I hadn’t asked, where are you going to school after summer?”

    Harry goes over to the desk, hesitating for a moment before he says, “Well, that depends.” He sits down at the desk, half turning to look at her. “I was supposed to go to Stonewall High, but I was accepted somewhere else I want to go to.”

    Mrs. Figg frowns, hands stilling as she looks up. “Stonewall, huh?” At his nod, she goes back to knitting as she asks, “But there’s another school?”

    “Yes, maybe. I, uh, don’t know if I’ll be allowed to go,” he says, trying to decide how much to say. “Maybe my aunt and uncle might let me go if I can get a scholarship to attend.”

    “So you’re writing to the school?” At his affirmative, Mrs. Figg nods her approval. “Good. Just let them know and I’m sure that he’ll-- they’ll help you attend.”

    “I hope so,” Harry admits. “I’m not sure where to send it, though. There’s not an address on the envelope for Hogwarts.”

    She stops knitting again and gives him a smile. “You just write that letter, dear. When you’re done, I’ll take care of sending it out and you can try and get some more sleep, okay?”

    Something about the certainty with which she says she’ll send it out has him agreeing to her plan. He pulls out a pen and some of the stationary located in the desk’s middle drawer, then stares at the blank page for a moment before pulling out the original letter and opening it. He pauses in his re-reading to frown at the headmaster’s name, which immediately gives him that same niggling déjà vu feeling once more, and then moves on. He decides he’ll write back to the one who signed this first page, the deputy headmistress, and begins.

Dear Mrs. McGonagall,

    He hopes it’s ‘Mrs.’, but wonders if he shouldn’t address it to her title? Too late, he’s already written the beginning, so he just continues.

My name is Harry Potter, and I just received the letter from your schools, Hogwart. It is very nice of you all to accept me to the school, although I have never heard of the school and never applied. It seems like it would be an interesting school to go to, but I am not sure my family can afford to send me there. Does Hogwarts offer scolarships? If so, could you tell me what I might do to get one?

If not, then I don’t think I will be able to go there. Maybe if my aunt and uncle say yes, but probably not if it will cost a lot. Since you needed an answer by 31 July though, I wanted to send this letter just in case.

    He taps the pen against his chin in thought, rereading his letter. He notes a few mistakes, but decides to leave them as opposed to scratching them out. He considers asking if he can use a different page, but he doesn’t want to push his luck on the older woman’s generosity when he still needs her to send the letter out for him. Harry thinks he should just keep it short, then remembers that letters are supposed to have return addresses and he frowns again.  

    Should he address it the way they sent it to him? It shouldn’t need where exactly he sleeps, at least he doesn’t remember anyone mentioning that in class, but he worries if he doesn’t give them the same address, they’ll think maybe he’s a different Harry Potter. He decides then that he’ll put the full address as they put it inside , but keep the cupboard part off the letter on the outside .

You can write back to the same address where I got the first letter:

Harry Potter

Cupboard Under the Stairs

4, Privet Drive

Little Whinging

Surrey

Hope to hear from you soon.

Harry Potter

    He hasn’t yet mastered writing his name in cursive, so he doesn’t sign it, only writes his name. His other mistakes are embarrassing enough; he doesn’t want to make the letter look worse than it already does. Instead, he folds it carefully, find an envelope in one of the desk drawers, and slips the letter inside. He licks it closed, then stares at the front for a moment. Putting the school’s full name would probably be best, but he worries that Mrs. Figg will see it and change her mind. Plus, shouldn’t he address it to the deputy headmistress, to make sure she gets it? Finally, he decides he may as well write both her name and the school’s full name, just in case there happens to be more than one place called ‘Hogwarts’, and scribbles it across the front directly in the middle. On the back, he puts his return address without the cupboard line. Then he stands up and walks over to Mrs. Figgs.

    “Finished, then?” she asks, smiling at him as she lays her knitting on her lap. She holds a hand out and he passes the envelope over after only a moment’s hesitation. “I’ll get this out. Why don’t you go get some sleep? I’ll wake you for lunch.”

    She glances at the envelope, but doesn’t bat an eye or ask any questions, and Harry finds himself relaxing. If she’s not saying anything about the name, maybe it’s not as weird as he thinks? Or maybe she’s more open minded than  his family. Regardless, he isn’t as anxious anymore and he agrees that a nap would be nice. He can only hope now that the school gets his letter and can help him.

~~~

A MERE hour later, the sound of the heels of a pair of well worn boots echo off the stone walls of the hallway their wearer is hurrying down. Minerva McGonagall, Professor of Transfiguration, Gryffindor Head of House, and Deputy Headmistress does not like to be caught by surprise, especially where her students are concerned, and that one had done so before ever setting foot inside the school did not bode well for the coming school year. With a letter written on flimsy Muggle paper in hand, she heads for the office of a certain wizard who has some questions to answer.

    In a few minutes, she is barging into his office with barely a knock. “Albus Dumbledore, you have some explaining to do.”

    Two men look over at her as she storms in. Severus Snape half turns, an eyebrow raised at her tone. It’s well known that she and the headmaster are close friends, but the woman is very careful about being respectful even when she disagrees with a decision so long as there are students or colleagues around. Yet here she is, speaking to the older man as if he’s one of her wayward students.

    For his part, Albus only raises a single eyebrow, an amused smile on his face. “Why, Minerva, whatever is the matter?”

    “This, Albus. This letter I just received, and you’ll never guess who from.” She waves the offending letter in the air. “Harry Potter. The Harry Potter. How has he never heard of Hogwarts? And asking about a scholarship ! Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, how does the Boy Who Lived not know about this school?” She slams the letter down on his desk, finger pointed down at it as she adds, “And look at the address. I checked the outgoing letters, and that is how his letter was addressed. Care to explain that?”

    Albus looks down at the letter, and although he is quiet as he skims it, the amused smile is no longer on his face. He’s done in a moment, looking back up at the angry face of his deputy headmistress. Snape moves forward, holding a hand out to look at the letter for himself. He knew the boy would be among the incoming students, but it hadn’t occurred to him the boy might arrive completely ignorant of the world he would be entering.

    “It appears that my instructions to inform Harry of his heritage have gone unheeded.” His calm demeanor only serves to further annoy McGonagall.

    “I told you I didn’t like the idea of leaving him there,” she reminds him. “Horrid, horrid Muggles. I couldn’t imagine a more unlikely sister to Lily Evans--”

    “You left the boy with Petunia .” Snape did look up now, surprise evident on his face as he stared at the headmaster. It had never occurred to him to ask where the boy had been placed. He hadn’t cared, to be quite honest, but that had been because he never imagined Dumbledore putting the hero of the wizarding world with someone who had so openly despised all things magic.

    Albus frowns. “It is the safest place for him.”

    “They have him in a cupboard , Albus! I hardly think that’s the safest place for him.” Unbidden, Snape recalls some of the cruel things Petunia had called her sister, someone she had once grown up with and been close to, and tries to imagine her with Lily’s son. Somehow, he can’t see her being any kinder to the boy. “Is this the first you’re hearing of this?

    “Didn’t you go to see him, ever? In these last ten years?” McGonagall’s question draws Snape’s attention to the headmaster, who stands up and looks over at neither of them as he walks over to his phoenix, who sits on his perch in a corner watching them all.

    “I have been too busy these past ten years,” he admits, “to go see the boy. Plus, it would have only served to confuse him. I thought it best he grew up as normally as possible before he could enter into a world where his fame will follow him around forever.”

    McGonagall scoffs. “Normal? He isn’t normal , Albus, and now he is completely unprepared for joining the world he belongs in.” Snape finds himself silently agreeing, imagining all the things the boy won’t know the first thing about. “What’s more, what’s ‘normal’ about being shoved into a cupboard? I don’t even want to think of what else he may have endured there,” she adds, voice low as she shakes her head, clearly imagining what else people who put a barely 11-year old boy to sleep in a cupboard might be capable of doing.

    She shakes her head, then asks, “Is Gringotts in possession of the Potter vault key? A scholarship, as if the son of James Henry Potter and only heir to the Potter estate would need one.”

    “I am in possession of that key,” Dumbledore informs her.

    McGonagall frowns. “I will need that, then. I will have to go see Mr. Potter this week about his letter, and I imagine he’ll need to be taken to Diagon Alley. Really, if I had known what his situation was like, I’d have included him on my list of visits along with the Muggle-born students.”

    “There’s no need, McGonagall, for you to go out of your way. Hagrid was going to handle some school business at Diagon later this week. He can take the boy.” Dumbledore was still facing the phoenix as he spoke, and behind him McGonagall and Snape shared a look.

    “If I may, sir,” Snape spoke up, although he did not wait before continuing. “Sending Hagrid to speak with Petunia Evans will hardly help the situation.”

    “Dursley,” McGonagall corrected. “Her married name is Dursley . And I insist on going. The boy wrote to me, and after leaving him there all those years ago, I would feel much better seeing how he’s fared firsthand.” There was a pause, then she added, “Perhaps you should come with me, Severus? Since you know Lily’s sister.”

    A sneer crossed his face, “Knew. I knew her sister. We were hardly friends.” Frankly, he had hated her from the very beginning, and it seemed unlikely time had changed the girl he’d hated into anything other than a woman he would hate as much, if not more.

    “All the same, I never met Lily’s sister as she was out when I went to go speak to the Evans’ when she was accepted. A familiar face might help persuade her that Mr. Potter will be coming to Hogwarts. Besides, you knew the boy’s mother and can tell him about her time here.” She knowingly said nothing of telling him about his father.

    Nevertheless, Snape’s immediate instinct was to deny the request. He wanted nothing to do with Potter’s son beyond what was required of him as a professor at the school. Dumbledore looked back then with a knowing look, as if he anticipated the man’s refusal, which only served to rouse the Potions master’s ire. Instead of the no he had been fully prepared, he found himself agreeing to the scheme.

    They had things they each had to take care of the next couple of days, but it was decided that come Wednesday, they would venture to Surrey together to speak with Harry Potter.

Story Notes:

Chapter title comes from a Kenny Chesney song.