Snape as spy (again)

[mss4a]

No: HPFGUIDX 30911

--- In HPforGrownups at y..., "Hillman, Lee" <lee_hillman at u...> 
wrote:
> Ah, Melissa, that's only if you assume that this supposed 
>"power" of Voldemort's is a. mind-reading or b. some other 
>infallible "art" or "talent." 

But wait! I don't think he's infallible. I just think it gives him an 
advantage. No matter whether you think he can read minds or 
not, you have to admit that a practitioner of the Dark Arts is at an 
advantage -- they have more options open to them. McGonagall 
tells Dumbledore that he doesn't use Dark Arts because he's too 
honorable, not because there's any utilitarian benefit in not using 
them. So I don't think it's a question of Voldie being infallible at 
all, just having an advantage over his enemies.

> The main thrust of my position remains the same, though: If 
Severus did not
> return to try to spy, one way or another, then what DID he do 
that both
> creates a strategic advantage *and* protects him from 
Voldermort's wrath?

Hang on -- forgive my ignorance here -- do we know that Snape's 
mission protects him from Voldie? Maybe it's time for me to trot 
out my original theory (with fear and trembling). Which is that 
Snape had to cut off his arm to get rid of the Dark Mark, because 
the Mark (theoretically) gives Voldie an "in" to wherever Snape is.

I'm not signing my name to this, just thought I would submit it.

> Gwen (staunchly defending a nasty, abusive, unloving, clever, 
>icy, and dangerous Snape)

:D Hey, right on!

Melanie