Snape and Dumbledores trust

[beanneboy]

No: HPFGUIDX 54686

It is well documented that Dumbledore trust Snape after his defection 
back to the light as such. But whilst re-reading PS/SS it occurred to 
me that does he actually trust Snape as much as he claims, I am sure 
that this would have been discussed before but the thought occurred 
before sleep took me last night. 

- It is common knowledge that Snape wants the defence against the 
dark arts job. The position has been open no less than 3 times, and 
soon to be 4. Snape is obviously capable to take the class, due to 
comments made throughout the book about the in depth knowledge he has 
in the subject (and well he was a D.E.)

- They hired Lockhart because there was nobody else for the job, 
(Hello!) I am sure that Snape would of been clearing his throat 
loudly. In fact all of the choices could be considered as 
controversial, Lupin (werewolf) Moody (Paranoid). Why not Snape?

It seems like there is definitely an issue, it would be just the same 
as replacing a potions master (Snape is very good but that does not 
mean that he is the only one capable), I am sure he would be equally 
good if not better in the dark arts position. So it raises for me the 
following questions....

1. Does Dumbledore only trust Snape to a point, therefore has he 
mislead Harry to a degree??? (which I would be reluctant to agree to)

2. Is it not a case of Dumbledore's trust but a issue with the 
governors, tying Dumbledore's hands? which again I don't think would 
be a reason, not because the governors might not take that view, but 
because this is Dumbledore, and a person he really trusts (hmm). You 
only need to look back to Lupin to know that.

3. Or Finally, was there a deal made when Dumbledore hired Snape, 
that he would be restricted from going anywhere near the defence 
against the dark arts position if it ever become available. Maybe 
they both thought it best, and perhaps Snape does not trust himself?

anyway I have bored those who have made it all the way through my 
post, I am sorry bout the length but I tend to get more ideas as I 
write. 

Lee