DH reread CH 26 - 29

[Geoff Bannister]

No: HPFGUIDX 187277

--- In HPforGrownups at yahoogroups.com, "dumbledore11214" <dumbledore11214 at ...> wrote:

Alla: 
> Now, does it mean that Neville has special relationship with the room? Or does it mean that he just figured out and taught everybody how to phrase their demands? Why is it such a big deal how to phrase it? Wouldn't the room read what you wish in your heart? I mean, I understand that wording is important for the spells, charms, incantations magic, but why is it important here?

Geoff:
No. I believe that Neville is a very shrewd guy who is a quiet thinker. If you 
will excuse the mixed metaphor, he has gradually climbed up our radar 
over the years from the nervous little boy of PS to being in the "last man 
standing" scenario of the Ministry battle. He actually thinks first before 
jumping and, out of Harry's shadow, has obviously carved out his own 
niche at Hogwarts. 

Reminds me very much of the folk you read about in occupied Europe in 
the Second World War who worked quietly behind the scenes to thwart the 
Germans, often at risk to themselves.

That was highlighted for me when my eye caught the following in chapter 
29:
'"...I got this one," he indicated another slash on his face, "for asking how 
her much Muggle blood she and her brother have got."

"Blimey, Neville," said Ron, "there's a time and a place for getting a smart 
mouth."

"You didn't hear her," said Neville. "You wouldn't have stood it either. The 
thing is, it helps when people stand up to them, it gives everyone hope. I 
used to notice it when you did it, Harry."

"But they've used you as a knife sharpener," said Ron, wincing slightly as 
they passed a lamp and Neville's injuries were thrown into even greater relief.

Neville shrugged.'
(DH "The Lost Diadem"  p.462 UK edition)

Quiet heroism.

Just in passing, Alla, are you working from a US edition? I ask because,  
curiously, your quoted page numbers match the UK edition.