Snape's Mission/Task

[catherine at cator-manor.demon.co.uk]

No: HPFGUIDX 15976

--- In HPforGrownups at y..., "Haggridd" <jkusalavagemd at y...> wrote:
>  I seem to remember that at the end 
> of GoF, they spoke of Snape's task in the past tense, as if it had 
> already been accomplished.  Is this at all significant?
> 
> Haggridd 

I think so - looking at the scene with Dumbledore again -
"Severus," said Dumbledore, turning to Snape, "you know what I must 
ask you to do.  If you are ready...if you are prepared..."
"I am," said Sanpe.
He looked slightly paler than usual, and his cold, black eyes 
glittered strangely.
"Then, good luck," said Dumbledore, and he watched, with a trace of 
apprehension on his face, as Snape swept wordlessly after Sirius.
(Ch 36,pg 619 English Edition)

>From this, and in particular the way Dumbledore wishes Snape luck I 
would suppose that Snape's task is to take place immediately.  And I 
also think that it involves an element of danger, as Snape is 
nervous, and Dumbledore is concerned, and knows that he is asking a 
lot (and there may be some lingering doubts as to whether Snape is up 
to it, but isn't likely considering the "great personal risk 
comment).  No further reference is made about Snape until the leaving 
feast, which is when Harry ponders, as Haggrid says, over what Snape 
had done that night.  

Another thing which struck me, on rereading this again was the 
ambiguity over Harry's interpretation of Snape at the feast:-

"His eyes lingered on Harry for a moment as Harry looked at him.  His 
expression was as difficult to read.  He looked as sour and as 
unpleasant as ever."

The last sentence is typical, but, unusually IMO, Snape is not 
looking at Harry with contempt or hatred, or malice...Is it possible 
that their relationship will undergo some subtle changes, even if 
this is not obvious on the surface?  Particularly if Snape's attitude 
to Draco and the Malfoys (sounds like a 60s band) has changed now he 
has heard from Harry that Lucius is a DE?  Harry, too, shows that 
although he does not entirely trust Snape, he is willing, for the 
time being, to trust Dumbledore on this one. (Is that a first?)  

Catherine,
Who is still faint but pursuing in trying to persuade everyone that 
Snape went to Voldemort that night.