Old, old problem.

[pippin_999]

No: HPFGUIDX 150983


> > Alla: 
> > No argument from me on this one, that was wrong in my book. :) But 
> > can't you imagine Dumbledore being scared if he does check on Harry, 
> > Petunia will throw the boy on the streets and then, good bye, blood 
> > protection.
> 
> Draeconin:
> No.  Petunia is, I think, scared almost spitless of him, and would be
> terrified of his retaliation were she to do any such thing.

Pippin:
"'Have you any idea how much tyrants fear the people they oppress? All
of them realize that one day, amongst their many victims, there is sure
to be one who rises against them and strikes back!" -- Albus Dumbledore,
HBP ch 23.

If Dumbledore believes that temperament runs in families, would he
think that Lily Potter's sister could be so intimidated that she would never 
think of rebellion? Wouldn't he expect her to find her backbone if she was
pushed too far? 

It is tempting to think that a good reason for bullying is simply to have
a good reason, but a great many bullies think they have that. I think
Dumbledore is cautious about using his power to get his way 
through fear  because he has so much of it...there is no one who
could stop him if he went too far, so he would rather err on the side of
caution. 

Pippin