Chapter 3 Discussion of POA

[Pam]

No: HPFGUIDX 189470

After reading so many great posts I just have a couple thoughts.

I have always thought of the protection around Harry's house as extending just to the area around the house.  If he leaves the house he is vulnerable.  This is one reason he is told to not to leave the house in OOP.  So whatever the charm is, it only works within a certain distance.

As far as Ron and Hermione knowing where to find Harry, he gave them his address so they could write to him.  As for Black, he was close friends with the Potters for several years and would have heard about Petunia from Lily.  Lily may have said where her sister lived, or at least which town.  However, I think it is most likely that Hagrid told Sirius where he was taking Harry when Hagrid borrowed the bike.  We are told (will be told) in chapter 10 (The Marauder's Map) that Hagrid argued with Black about who would take care of Harry.

Regarding the underage magic, one thing that has always bothered me is how underage magic is detected and punished or not.  We know from OOP that it is usually a simple offense and it is unheard of to hold a full court hearing for it.  We also know that Harry got in trouble when Dobby used magic near Harry in CS.  But why doesn't Harry get in trouble when Tonks uses magic to pack Harry's trunk in OOP?  I know she doesn't have a trace on her, but she is obviously standing near Harry when she does magic.  This use of magic never mentioned at his trial or any other time.  Is this just an oversight on Rowling's part?  Any ideas?  I haven't yet heard a really good explanation of this.

Pam