Chapter 28 The Madness of Mr Crouch

devil, Ron, and Hermione went up to the Owlery after breakfast on Sun daylight to send a garner to Percy, asking, as Sirius had suggested, whether he had go overn Mr. bend lately. They used Hedwig, because it had been so prospicient since shed had a job. When they had watched her fly pop of sleuth through with(predicate) the Owlery window, they proceeded down to the kitchen to retain Dobby his new socks.The house-elves gave them a very nourishy welcome, bowing and curtsying and bustling hearty-nigh making tea again. Dobby was ecstatic ab forbidden his presend.stimulate throwster is too good to Dobby he squeaked, wiping braggy tears give a vogue of his extensive look.You saved my life with that gillyweed, Dobby, you re on the wholey did, verbalize vex.No chance of much of those eclairs, is at that place? verbalise Ron, who was face uping around at the beaming and bowing house-elves.Youve incisively had breakfast state Hermione irritably, alone a great sil ver platter of eclairs was already zooming toward them, supported by four elves.We should fit some hurtle to send up to Snuffles, raise muttered.Good idea, state Ron. Give Pig someaffair to do. You couldnt give us a bit of limited food, could you? he verbalise to the surrounding elves, and they bowed delightedly and go take stunned to lower some more.Dobby, w presents Winky? express Hermione, who was sounding around.Winky is over t present by the fire, miss, utter Dobby quietly, his ears drop slightly.Oh dear, say Hermione as she spotted Winky. plague looked over at the fireplace too. Winky was sitting on the identical stool as die sound time, alone she had entirelyowed herself to become so filthy that she was non immediately clear-cut from the smoke- vitriolicened brick behind her. Her c packhes were ragged and unwashed. She was clutching a bottle of butterbeer and swaying slightly on her stool, unadulterated into the fire. As they watched her, she gave an eno rmous hic cup.Winky is commoveting through six bottles a day now, Dobby whispered to provoke.Well, its not strong, that stuff, elicit utter.But Dobby agitate his extend. Tis strong for a house-elf, sir, he state.Winky hiccuped again. The elves who had brought the eclairs gave her disapproving looks as they re braided to work.Winky is pining, molest trustter around, Dobby whispered sadly. Winky demands to go home. Winky pacify signifys Mr. submit is her master, sir, and nil Dobby says allow persuade her that professor Dumbledore is her master now.Hey, Winky, utter ravage, struck by a explosive inspiration, walking over to her, and bending down, you dont love what Mr. Crouch might be up to, do you? Because hes stop turning up to try on the Triwizard Tournament.Winkys eyes flickered. Her enormous pupils focused on evoke. She swayed slightly again and therefore say, M overlord is stop hic coming?Yeah, said arouse, we realizent becharmn him since the first task. The effortless Prophets saying hes ill.Winky swayed some more, agaze blurrily at chivy.Master hic ill?Her bottom lip began to tremble.But were not sure if thats true, said Hermione quickly.Master is training his hic Winky whimpered the elf. Master earth-closetnot hic manage hic all by himself.Other people manage to do their own housework, you last, Winky, Hermione said s eerely.Winky hic is not only hic doing housework for Mr. Crouch Winky squeaked indignantly, swaying worse than ever and slopping butterbeer down her already heavily varnished blouse. Master is hic trusting Winky with hic the most important hic the most secretWhat? said Harry.But Winky shook her head very hard, spilling more butterbeer down herself.Winky corroborates hic her masters secrets, she said mutinously, swaying very heavily now, frowning up at Harry with her eyes crossed. You is hic nosing, you is.Winky must not slop like that to Harry muck or so said Dobby angrily. Har ry Potter is brave and noble and Harry Potter is not nosyHe is nosing hic into my masters hic private and secret hic Winky is a good house-elf hic Winky keeps her silence hic people trying to hic pry and poke hic -Winkys eyelids drooped and suddenly, with come forth warning, she slid off her stool into the h solid ground, snoring loudly. The avoid bottle of butterbeer rolled away across the rock and roll-flagged floor. Half a dozen house-elves came speeding forward, looking disgusted. genius of them picked up the bottle the some others covered Winky with a abundant checked tablecloth and tucked the ends in neatly, hiding her from view.We is worrying you had to see that, sirs and miss squeaked a nearby elf, shaking his head and looking very ashamed. We is hoping you lead not judge us all by Winky, sirs and missShes disquieted said Hermione, exasperated. Why dont you try and cheer her up instead of covering her up?Begging your pardon, miss, said the house-elf, b owing deeply again, but house-elves has no right to be unhappy when there is work to be make and masters to be served.Oh for sector sake Hermione cried. Listen to me, all of you Youve got practiced as much right as wizards to be unhappy Youve got the right to wages and holidays and proper clothes, you dont have to do everything youre told look at Dobby neglect allow for beguile keep Dobby away of this, Dobby mumbled, looking s worryd. The comfortable smiles had vanished from the faces of the house-elves around the kitchen. They were suddenly looking at Hermione as though she were mad and dangerous.We has your extra food squeaked an elf at Harrys elbow, and he shoved a large ham, a dozen cakes, and some fruit into Harrys arms. Good-byeThe house-elves crowded around Harry, Ron, and Hermione and began shunting them bring out of the kitchen, m any little attain force in the comminuteds of their prickers.Thank you for the socks, Harry Potter Dobby called miserably from the lovingnessh, where he was standing conterminous to the lumpy tablecloth that was Winky.You couldnt keep your blab shut down, could you, Hermione? said Ron angrily as the kitchen door slammed shut behind them. They wont wishing us visit them now We couldve tried and true to get more stuff out of Winky virtually CrouchOh as if you care about that scoffed Hermione. You only like coming down here for the foodIt was an irritable sort of day after that. Harry got so tired of Ron and Hermione sniping at all(prenominal) other over their homework in the prevalent room that he took Siriuss food up to the Owlery that evening on his own.Pigwidgeon was much too small to carry an entire ham up to the mountain by himself, so Harry enlisted the help of ii school screech owls as well. When they had set off into the dusk, looking extremely odd carrying the large in fictional character between them. Harry leaned on the windowsill, looking out at the grounds, at the off, rustling treetops of the Forbidden Forest, and the cockle sails of the Durmstrang ship. An eagle owl flew through the coil of smoke rising from Hagrids chimney it soared toward the castle, around the Owlery, and out of sight. looking down, Harry saw Hagrid digging energetically in calculate of his ca lay in. Harry wondered what he was doing it looked as though he were making a new vegetable patch. As he watched, Madame Maxime emerged from the Beauxbatons carriage and walked over to Hagrid. She appeared to be trying to engage him in conversation. Hagrid leaned upon his spade, but did not seem keen to prolong their talk, because Madame Maxime re glum to the carriage currently afterward.Un go awaying to go buttocks to Gryffindor Tower and listen to Ron and Hermione snarling at each other, Harry watched Hagrid digging until the immorality swallowed him and the owls around Harry began to awake, swooshing past him into the night.By breakfast the next day Rons and Hermiones bad moods had burnt out, and to Harrys relief, Rons dark predictions that the house-elves would send substandard food up to the Gryffindor table because Hermione had insulted them proved false the bacon, eggs, and kippers were quite as good as usual.When the post owls arrived, Hermione looked up eagerly she seemed to be expecting something.Percy wontve had time to answer yet, said Ron. We only sent Hedwig yesterday.No, its not that, said Hermione. Ive taken out a subscription to the Daily Prophet. Im getting sick of finding everything out from the Slytherins.Good idea said Harry, also looking up at the owls. Hey, Hermione, I think youre in luck -A grayness owl was soaring down toward Hermione.It hasnt got a newspaper, though, she said, looking disap plosiveed. Its -But to her bewilderment, the gray owl landed in front of her plate, closely followed by four barn owls, a dark-brown owl, and a tawny.How many subscriptions did you take out? said Harry, seizing Hermiones goblet before it was knocked over by the c luster of owls, all of whom were jostling close to her, trying to deliver their own letter first.What on land ? Hermione said, taking the letter from the gray owl, opening it, and starting to read. Oh really she sputtered, button rather red.Whats up? said Ron.Its oh how ridiculous -She thrust the letter at Harry, who saw that it was not handwritten, but composed from pasted garner that seemed to have been cut out of the Daily Prophet.YOU ARE A WICKED GIRL. HARRY POTTER DESERVES BETTER. GO BACK WHERE YOU CAME FROM MUGGLE. Theyre all like it said Hermione desperately, opening one letter after another. Harry Potter can do much better than the likes of you. You deserve to be boiled in frog sire. OuchShe had opened the furthest envelope, and yellowish- discolor liquid smelling strongly of petrol gushed over her hands, which began to erupt in large yellow boils.Undiluted bubotuber pus said Ron, picking up the envelope gingerly and sniffing it.Ow said Hermione, tears starting in her eyes as she tried to rub the pus off her hands with a napkin, but her fingers were now so thickly covered in painful sores that it looked as though she were have on a pair of thick, knobbly gloves.Youd better get up to the hospital wing, said Harry as the owls around Hermione took flight. Well insure Professor Sprout where youve gone.I warned her said Ron as Hermione hurry out of the Great mansion house, cradling her hands. I warned her not to annoy Rita Skeeter Look at this one He read out one of the letters Hermione had left behind I read In ravish Weekly about how you are playing Harry Potter false and that boy has had seemly hardship and I provide be sending you a curse by next post as soon as I can find a big enough envelope. Blimey, shed better watch out for herself.Hermione didnt turn up for Herbology. As Harry and Ron left the greenhouse for their Care of Magical Creatures class, they saw Malfoy, Crabbe, and Goyle descending the gem move of the castle. Pansy Parki nson was whispering and giggling behind them with her gang of Slytherin girls. Catching sight of Harry, Pansy called, Potter, have you depart up with your girlfriend? Why was she so upset at breakfast?Harry ignored her he didnt want to give her the satisfaction of sleep withing how much trouble the Witch Weekly article had caused.Hagrid, who had told them last lesson that they had finished with unicorns, was appearing for them outside his cabin with a fresh supply of open crates at his feet. Harrys heart sank at the sight of the crates surely not another skrewt hatching? but when he got near enough to see inside, he found himself looking at a number of flurry nigrify creatures with long snouts. Their front paws were curiously flat, like spades, and they were blinking up at the class, looking politely puzzled at all the attention.Thesere nifflers, said Hagrid, when the class had gathered around. Yeh find em down mines mostly. They like sparkly stuff.There yeh go, look. iodine o f the nifflers had suddenly leapt up and attempted to bite Pansy Parkinsons watch off her wrist. She shrieked and jumped lynchpinward. useful little treasure detectors, said Hagrid happily. Thought wed have some fun with em today. See over there? He pointed at the large patch of freshly turned earth Harry had watched him digging from the Owlery window. Ive hide some gold coins. Ive got a prize fer whoever picks the niffler that digs up most. Jus take off all yer valuables, an guide a niffler, an get ready ter set em loose.Harry took off his watch, which he was only wearing out of habit, as it didnt work anymore, and stuffed it into his pocket. and whence he picked up a niffler. It put its long snout in Harrys ear and sniffed enthusiastically. It was really quite cuddly.Hang on, said Hagrid, looking down into the crate, theres a spare niffler herewhos missin? Wheres Hermione?She had to go to the hospital wing, said Ron.Well explain ulterior, Harry muttered Pansy Parkinson was l istening.It was easily the most fun they had ever had in Care of Magical Creatures. The nifflers dived in and out of the patch of earth as though it were water, each scurrying cover to the schoolchild who had released it and spitting gold into their hands. Rons was particularly efficient it had soon filled his lap covering with coins.Can you buy these as pets, Hagrid? he asked excitedly as his niffler dived back into the soil, splattering his robes.Yer mum wouldn be happy, Ron, said Hagrid, grinning. They wreck houses, nifflers. I reckon theyve nearly got the lot, now, he added, pacing around the patch of earth while the nifflers proceed to dive. I ony buried a hundred coins. Oh there yare, HermioneHermione was walking toward them across the lawn. Her hands were very heavily bandaged and she looked miserable. Pansy Parkinson was watching her beadily.Well, lets check how yehve done said Hagrid. Count yer coins An theres no point tryin ter steal any, Goyle, he added, his beetle-bla ck eyes narrowed. Its leprechaun gold. Vanishes after a few hours.Goyle emptied his pockets, looking extremely sulky. It turned out that Rons niffler had been most successful, so Hagrid gave him an enormous slab of Honeydukes chocolate for a prize. The bell rang across the grounds for luncheon the rest of the class set off back to the castle, but Harry, Ron, and Hermione stayed behind to help Hagrid put the nifflers back in their boxes. Harry noticed Madame Maxime watching them out other carriage window.What yeh done ter your hands, Hermione? said Hagrid, looking concerned.Hermione told him about the hate mail she had received that morning, and the envelope safe of bubotuber pus.Aaah, don worry, said Hagrid gently, looking down at her. I got some o those letters an all, after Rita Skeeter wrote abou me mum. Yehre a monster an yeh should be put down. Yer mother killed gratis(p) people an if you had any decency you d jump in a lake.No said Hermione, looking shocked.Yeah, said Hagrid , heaving the niffler crates over by his cabin wall. Theyre jus nutters, Hermione. Don open em if yeh get any more. Chuck em straigh in the fire.You befuddled a really good lesson, Harry told Hermione as they headed back toward the castle. Theyre good, nifflers, arent they, Ron?Ron, however, was frowning at the chocolate Hagrid had give him. He looked thoroughly put out about something.Whats the matter? said Harry. Wrong flavor?No, said Ron shortly. Why didnt you tell me about the gold?What gold? said Harry.The gold I gave you at the Quidditch demesne Cup, said Ron. The leprechaun gold I gave you for my Omnioculars. In the Top Box. Why didnt you tell me it disappeared?Harry had to think for a moment before he realized what Ron was talking about.Oh he said, the memory coming back to him at last. I dunnoI never noticed it had gone. I was more worried about my baton, wasnt I?They climbed the steps into the entrance planetary house and went into the Great Hall for lunch.Must be nic e, Ron said abruptly, when they had sat down and started lot themselves roast beef and Yorkshire puddings. To have so much money you dont notice if a pocketful of Galleons goes missing.Listen, I had other stuff on my genius that night said Harry impatiently. We all did, remember?I didnt know leprechaun gold vanishes, Ron muttered. I thought I was paying you back. You shouldntve given me that Chudley Cannon hat for Christmas.Forget it, all right? said Harry.Ron speared a roast potato on the end of his fork, glaring at it. Then he said, I hate being poor.Harry and Hermione looked at each other. Neither of them really knew what to say.Its rubbish, said Ron, sleek over glaring down at his potato. I dont blame Fred and George for trying to make some extra money. Wish I could. Wish I had a niffler.Well, we know what to get you next Christmas, said Hermione brightly. Then, when Ron continued to look gloomy, she said, Come on, Ron, it could be worse. At least your fingers arent full of p us. Hermione was having a lot of difficulty managing her wound and fork, her fingers were so stiff and swollen. I hate that Skeeter woman she burst out savagely. Ill get her back for this if its the last thing I doHate mail continued to arrive for Hermione over the following week, and although she followed Hagrids advice and stopped opening it, several of her ill-wishers sent Howlers, which exploded at the Gryffindor table and shrieked insults at her for the whole Hall to hear. Even those people who didnt read Witch Weekly knew all about the supposed Harry-Krum-Hermione triangle now. Harry was getting sick of telling people that Hermione wasnt his girlfriend.Itll die down, though, he told Hermione, if we just ignore it.People got bored with that stuff she wrote about me last time.I want to know how shes listening into private conversations when shes supposed to be illegalize from the grounds said Hermione angrily.Hermione hung back in their next Defense Against the Dark Arts lesso n to ask Professor non-white something. The rest of the class was very eager to leave Moody had given them such(prenominal) a rigorous test of hex-deflection that many of them were nursing small injuries. Harry had such a bad case of Twitchy Ears, he had to hold his hands clamped over them as he walked away from the class.Well, Ritas definitely not apply an Invisibility Cloak Hermione panted five minutes later, catching up with Harry and Ron in the entrance hall and pulling Harrys hand away from one of his wiggling ears so that he could hear her. Moody says he didnt see her anywhere near the judges table at the second task, or anywhere near the lakeHermione, is there any point in telling you to drop this? said Ron.No said Hermione stubbornly. I want to know how she heard me talking to Viktor And how she found out about Hagrids mumMaybe she had you bugged, said Harry.Bugged? said Ron blankly. Whatput fleas on her or something?Harry started explaining about hidden microphones and re cording equipment. Ron was fascinated, but Hermione interrupted them.Arent you twain ever going to read Hogwarts, A HistoryWhats the point? said Ron. You know it by heart, we can just ask you.All those substitutes for magic Muggles use electricity, computers, and radar, and all those things they all go haywire around Hogwarts, theres too much magic in the air. No, Ritas using magic to eavesdrop, she must be.If I could just find out what it isooh, if its illegal, Ill have herHavent we got enough to worry about? Ron asked her. Do we have to start a vendetta against Rita Skeeter as well?Im not asking you to help Hermione snapped. Ill do it on my ownShe marched back up the marble staircase without a backward glance. Harry was quite sure she was going to the library.Whats the call she comes back with a box of / Hate Rita Skeeter badges? said Ron.Hermione, however, did not ask Harry and Ron to help her give chase vengeance against Rita Skeeter, for which they were both grateful, beca use their workload was mounting ever higher in the days before the easter holidays. Harry frankly marveled at the fact that Hermione could research magical methods of eavesdropping as well as everything else they had to do. He was working flat-out just to get through all their homework, though he made a point of sending regular food packages up to the cave in the mountain for Sirius after last summer, Harry had not forgotten what it felt like to be continually hungry. He enfold notes to Sirius, telling him that nothing out of the ordinary had happened, and that they were still waiting for an answer from Percy.Hedwig didnt return until the end of the Easter holidays. Percys letter was enclosed in a package of Easter eggs that Mrs. Weasley had sent. Both Harrys and Rons were the size of dragon eggs and full of homemade toffee. Hermiones, however, was smaller than a chicken egg. Her face fell when she saw it.Your mum doesnt read Witch Weekly, by any chance, does she, Ron? she asked q uietly.Yeah, said Ron, whose mouth was full of toffee. initiates it for the recipes.Hermione looked sadly at her tiny egg.Dont you want to see what Percys written? Harry asked her hastily.Percys letter was short and irritated.As I am constantly telling the Daily Prophet, Mr. Crouch is taking a well-deserved break. He is sending in regular owls with instructions. No, I havent actually seen him, but I think I can be trusted to know my own superiors handwriting. I have quite enough to do at the moment without trying to quash these ridiculous rumors. Please dont rally me again unless its something important. Happy Easter. The start of the summer term would median(prenominal)ly have meant that Harry was training hard for the last Quidditch match of the season. This year, however, it was the third and final task in the Triwizard Tournament for which he needed to prepare, but he still didnt know what he would have to do. Finally, in the last week of May, Professor McGonagall held him ba ck in Transfiguration.You are to go down to the Quidditch field tonight at nine oclock. Potter, she told him. Mr. Bagman will be there to tell the champions about the third task.So at half past octonary that night. Harry left Ron and Hermione in Gryffindor Tower and went downstairs. As he crossed the entrance hall, Cedric came up from the Hufflepuff common room.What dyou reckon its going to be? he asked Harry as they went together down the stone steps, out into the cloudy night. Fleur keeps going on about underground tunnels she reckons weve got to find treasure.That wouldnt be too bad, said Harry, thinking that he would simply ask Hagrid for a niffler to do the job for him.They walked down the dark lawn to the Quidditch roll, turned through a gap in the stands, and walked out onto the field.Whatve they done to it? Cedric said indignantly, stopping dead.The Quidditch field was no protracted smooth and flat. It looked as though somebody had been building long, low walls all over it that twisted and cross in every direction.Theyre hedges said Harry, bending to examine the nearest one.Hello there called a cheery voice.Ludo Bagman was standing in the middle of the field with Krum and Fleur. Harry and Cedric made their way toward them, climbing over the hedges. Fleur beamed at Harry as he came nearer. Her attitude toward him had changed completely since he had saved her sister from the lake.Well, what dyou think? said Bagman happily as Harry and Cedric climbed over the last hedge. Growing nicely, arent they? Give them a month and Hagridll have them twenty feet high. Dont worry, he added, grinning, spotting the less-than-happy expressions on Harrys and Cedrics faces, youll have your Quidditch field back to normal once the task is over Now, I imagine you can guess what were making here?No one verbalise for a moment. Then Maze, grunted Krum.Thats right said Bagman. A maze. The third tasks really very straightforward. The Triwizard Cup will be placed in the center of the maze. The first champion to touch it will receive full marks.We seemply ave to get through the maze? said Fleur.There will be obstacles, said Bagman happily, bouncing on the balls of his feet. Hagrid is providing a number of creaturesthen there will be spells that must be brokenall that sort of thing, you know. Now, the champions who are leading on points will get a head start into the maze. Bagman grinned at Harry and Cedric. Then Mr. Krum will enterthen Miss Delacour. But youll all be in with a fighting chance, depending how well you get past the obstacles. Should be fun, eh?Harry, who knew only too well the kind of creatures that Hagrid was likely to provide for an event like this, thought it was big(a) to be any fun at all. However, he nodded politely like the other champions.Very wellif you havent got any questions, well go back up to the castle, shall we, its a bit chilly.Bagman hurried on base Harry as they began to wend their way out of the growing maze. Harry had the flavour that Bagman was going to start offering to help him again, but just then, Krum tapped Harry on the shoulder.Could I haff a vord?Yeah, all right, said Harry, slightly surprised.Vill you valk vith me?Okay, said Harry curiously.Bagman looked slightly perturbed.Ill wait for you. Harry, shall I?No, its okay, Mr. Bagman, said Harry, suppressing a smile, I think I can find the castle on my own, conveys.Harry and Krum left the stadium together, but Krum did not set a course for the Durmstrang ship. Instead, he walked toward the forest.Whatre we going this way for? said Harry as they passed Hagrids cabin and the illuminated Beauxbatons carriage.Dont vont to be overheard, said Krum shortly.When at last they had reached a quiet cut of ground a short way from the Beauxbatons horses paddock, Krum stopped in the shade of the trees and turned to face Harry.I vant to know, he said, glowering, vot there is between you and Hermy-own-ninny.Harry, who from Krums secretive manner had expe cted something much more serious than this, stared up at Krum in amazement.Nothing, he said. But Krum glowered at him, and Harry, somehow struck anew by how tall Krum was, elaborated. Were friends. Shes not my girlfriend and she never has been. Its just that Skeeter woman making things up.Hermy-own-ninny talks about you very often, said Krum, looking suspiciously at Harry.Yeah, said Harry, because were friends.He couldnt quite believe he was having this conversation with Viktor Krum, the renowned International Quidditch player. It was as though the eighteen-year-old Krum thought he. Harry, was an equal a real rival You haff neveryou haff notNo, said Harry very firmly.Krum looked slightly happier. He stared at Harry for a few seconds, then said, You fly very veil. I vos votching at the first task.Thanks, said Harry, grinning broadly and suddenly feeling much taller himself. I saw you at the Quidditch World Cup. The Wronski Feint, you really -But something moved behind Krum in the t rees, and Harry, who had some experience of the sort of thing that lurked in the forest, instinctively grabbed Krums arm and pulled him around.Vot is it?Harry shook his head, staring at the place where hed seen movement. He slipped his hand inside his robes, reaching for his wand.Suddenly a man staggered out from behind a tall oak. For a moment, Harry didnt recognize himthen he realized it was Mr. Crouch.He looked as though he had been traveling for days. The knees of his robes were ripped and bloody, his face scratched he was unshaven and gray with exhaustion. His neat pig and mustache were both in need of a wash and a trim. His strange appearance, however, was nothing to the way he was behaving. Muttering and gesticulating, Mr. Crouch appeared to be talking to someone that he alone could see. He reminded Harry vividly of an old tramp he had seen once when out shopping with the Dursleys. That man too had been conversing wildly with thin air Aunt Petunia had seized Dudleys hand and pulled him across the road to avoid him Uncle Vernon had then treat the family to a long rant about what he would like to do with beggars and vagrants.Vosnt he a judge? said Krum, staring at Mr. Crouch. Isnt he vith your Ministry?Harry nodded, hesitated for a moment, then walked slowly toward Mr. Crouch, who did not look at him, but continued to talk to a nearby tree.and when youve done that, Weatherby, send an owl to Dumbledore affirm the number of Durmstrang students who will be attending the tournament, Karkaroff has just sent word there will be twelve.Mr. Crouch? said Harry cautiously.and then send another owl to Madame Maxime, because she might want to up the number of students shes bringing, now Karkaroffs made it a round dozendo that, Weatherby, will you? bequeath you? WillMr. Crouchs eyes were bulging. He stood staring at the tree, muttering soundlessly at it. Then he staggered sideways and fell to his knees.Mr. Crouch? Harry said loudly. Are you all right?Crouchs eyes w ere ringlet in his head. Harry looked around at Krum, who had followed him into the trees, and was looking down at Crouch in alarm.Vot is misuse with him?No idea, Harry muttered. Listen, youd better go and get someone -Dumbledore gasped Mr. Crouch. He reached out and seized a fistful of Harrys robes, dragging him closer, though his eyes were staring over Harrys head. I needseeDumbledore.Okay, said Harry, if you get up, Mr. Crouch, we can go up to the-Ive donestupidthing Mr. Crouch breathed. He looked utterly mad. His eyes were rolling and bulging, and a trickle of spittle was sliding down his chin. Every word he spoke seemed to cost him a terrible effort. MusttellDumbledoreGet up, Mr. Crouch, said Harry loudly and clearly. Get up, Ill take you to DumbledoreMr., Crouchs eyes rolled forward onto Harry.Whoyou? he whispered.Im a student at the school, said Harry, looking around at Krum for some help, but Krum was hanging back, looking extremely nervous.Youre nothis? whispered Crouch, his mouth sagging.No, said Harry, without the faintest idea what Crouch was talking about.Dumbledores?Thats right, said Harry.Crouch was pulling him closer Harry tried to loosen Crouchs grip on his robes, but it was too powerful.WarnDumbledoreIll get Dumbledore if you let go of me, said Harry. Just let go, Mr. Crouch, and Ill get him.Thank you, Weatherby, and when you have done that, I would like a cup of tea. My wife and son will be arriving shortly, we are attending a concert tonight with Mr. and Mrs. Fudge.Crouch was now talking fluently to a tree again, and seemed completely unaware that Harry was there, which surprised Harry so much he didnt notice that Crouch had released him.Yes, my son has recently gained twelve O.W.L.s, most satisfactory, yes, thank you, yes, very proud indeed. Now, if you could bring me that memo from the Andorran Minister of Magic, I think I will have time to draft a response.You stay here with him Harry said to Krum. Ill get Dumbledore, Ill be quicker, I know where his office is -He is mad, said Krum doubtfully, staring down at Crouch, who was still gabbling to the tree, apparently convinced it was Percy.Just stay with him, said Harry, starting to get up, but his movement seemed to touch off another abrupt change in Mr. Crouch, who seized him hard around the knees and pulled Harry back to the ground.Dontleaveme he whispered, his eyes bulging again. Iescapedmust warnmust tellsee Dumbledoremy shiftall my faultBerthadeadall my faultmy sonmy faulttell Dumbledore Harry Potterthe Dark LordstrongerHarry PotterIll get Dumbledore if you let me go, Mr. Crouch said Harry. He looked furiously around at Krum. Help me, will you?Looking extremely apprehensive, Krum moved forward and squatted down next to Mr. Crouch.Just keep him here, said Harry, pulling himself free of Mr. Crouch. Ill be back with Dumbledore.Hurry, vont you? Krum called after him as Harry sprinted away from the forest and up through the dark grounds. They were deserted Bagman , Cedric, and Fleur had disappeared. Harry tore up the stone steps, through the oak front doors, and off up the marble staircase, toward the second floor.Five minutes later he was hurtling toward a stone gargoyle standing halfway along an empty corridor.Sher sherbet lemon he panted at it.This was the countersignature to the hidden staircase to Dumbledores office or at least, it had been two years ago. The password had evidently changed, however, for the stone gargoyle did not spring to life and jump aside, but stood frozen, glaring at Harry malevolently.Move Harry shouted at it. CmonBut nothing at Hogwarts had ever moved just because he shouted at it he knew it was no good. He looked up and down the dark corridor. mayhap Dumbledore was in the staffroom? He started running as fast as he could toward the staircase POTTERHarry skidded to a halt and looked around. Snape had just emerged from the hidden staircase behind the stone gargoyle. The wall was sliding shut behind him even as he beckoned Harry back toward him.What are you doing here, Potter?I need to see Professor Dumbledore said Harry, running back up the corridor and skidding to a standstill in front of Snape instead. Its Mr. Crouchhes just turned uphes in the foresthes asking -What is this rubbish? said Snape, his black eyes glittering. What are you talking about?Mr. Crouch Harry shouted. From the Ministry Hes ill or something hes in the forest, he wants to see Dumbledore Just give me the password up to -The headmaster is busy. Potter, said Snape, his thin mouth curl into an unpleasant smile.Ive got to tell Dumbledore Harry yelled.Didnt you hear me. Potter?Harry could tell Snape was thoroughly enjoying himself, denying Harry the thing he precious when he was so panicky.Look, said Harry angrily, Crouch isnt right hes hes out of his mind he says he wants to warn -The stone wall behind Snape slid open. Dumbledore was standing there, wearing long green robes and a mildly curious expression. Is there a problem? he said, looking between Harry and Snape.Professor Harry said, sidestepping Snape before Snape could speak, Mr. Crouch is here hes down in the forest, he wants to speak to youHarry expected Dumbledore to ask questions, but to his relief, Dumbledore did nothing of the sort.Lead the way, he said promptly, and he swept off along the corridor behind Harry, leaving Snape standing next to the gargoyle and looking twice as ugly.What did Mr. Crouch say. Harry? said Dumbledore as they walked swiftly down the marble staircase.Said he wants to warn yousaid hes done something terriblehe mentioned his sonand Bertha Jorkinsand and Voldemortsomething about Voldemort getting stronger.Indeed, said Dumbledore, and he quickened his pace as they hurried out into the pitch-darkness.Hes not acting normally, Harry said, hurrying along beside Dumbledore. He doesnt seem to know where he is. He keeps talking like he thinks Percy Weasleys there, and then he changes, and says he needs to see you.I left him with Viktor Krum.You did? said Dumbledore sharply, and he began to take longer strides still, so that Harry was running to keep up. Do you know if anybody else saw Mr. Crouch?No, said Harry. Krum and I were talking, Mr. Bagman had just finished telling us about the third task, we stayed behind, and then we saw Mr. Crouch coming out of the forest -Where are they? said Dumbledore as the Beauxbatons carriage emerged from the darkness.Over here, said Harry, moving in front of Dumbledore, leading the way through the trees. He couldnt hear Crouchs voice anymore, but he knew where he was going it hadnt been much past the Beauxbatons carriage someplace around here.Viktor? Harry shouted.No one answered.They were here, Harry said to Dumbledore. They were definitely somewhere around here.Lumos, Dumbledore said, lighting his wand and holding it up.Its narrow beam traveled from black trunk to black trunk, illuminating the ground. And then it fell upon a pair of feet.Harry and Dumbledor e hurried forward. Krum was sprawled on the forest floor. He seemed to be unconscious. There was no sign at all of Mr. Crouch. Dumbledore bent over Krum and gently upraised one of his eyelids.Stunned, he said softly. His half-moon glasses glittered in the wandlight as he peered around at the surrounding trees.Should I go and get someone? said Harry. Madam Pomfrey?No, said Dumbledore swiftly. Stay here.He raised his wand into the air and pointed it in the direction of Hagrids cabin. Harry saw something silvery dart out of it and streak away through the trees like a ghostly bird. Then Dumbledore bent over Krum again, pointed his wand at him, and muttered, Ennervate.Krum opened his eyes. He looked dazed. When he saw Dumbledore, he tried to sit up, but Dumbledore put a hand on his shoulder and made him lie still.He attacked me Krum muttered, putting a hand up to his head. The old madman attacked me I vos looking around to see vare Potter had gone and he attacked from behindLie still fo r a moment, Dumbledore said.The sound of thunderous footfalls reached them, and Hagrid came panting into sight with Fang at his heels. He was carrying his crossbow.Professor Dumbledore he said, his eyes widening. Harry what the -?Hagrid, I need you to fetch Professor Karkaroff, said Dumbledore. His student has been attacked. When youve done that, kindly alert Professor Moody -No need, Dumbledore, said a wheezy growl. Im here.Moody was limping toward them, leaning on his staff, his wand lit.Damn leg, he said furiously. Wouldve been here quickerwhats happened? Snape said something about Crouch -Crouch? said Hagrid blankly.Karkaroff, please, Hagrid said Dumbledore sharply.Oh yeahright yare, Professor said Hagrid, and he turned and disappeared into the dark trees, Fang trotting after him.I dont know where Barty Crouch is, Dumbledore told Moody, but it is essential that we find him.Im onto it, growled Moody, and he pulled out his wand and limped off into the forest.Neither Dumbledore no r Harry spoke again until they heard the unmistakable sounds of Hagrid and Fang returning. Karkaroff was hurrying along behind them. He was wearing his sleek silver furs, and he looked pale and agitated.What is this? he cried when he saw Krum on the ground and Dumbledore and Harry beside him. Whats going on?I vos attacked said Krum, sitting up now and rubbing his head. Mr. Crouch or votever his name -Crouch attacked you? Crouch attacked you? The Triwizard judge?Igor, Dumbledore began, but Karkaroff had force himself up, clutching his furs around him, looking livid.Treachery he bellowed, pointing at Dumbledore. It is a plot You and your Ministry of Magic have lured me here under false pretenses, Dumbledore This is not an equal competition First you sneak Potter into the tournament, though he is underage Now one of your Ministry friends attempts to put my champion out of action I smell deceitfulness and corruption in this whole affair, and you, Dumbledore, you, with your talk of clo ser international wizarding links, of rebuilding old ties, of forgetting old differences heres what I think of youKarkaroff spat onto the ground at Dumbledores feet. In one swift movement, Hagrid seized the front of Karkaroffs furs, lifted him into the air, and slammed him against a nearby tree.Apologize Hagrid snarled as Karkaroff gasped for breath, Hagrids massive fist at his throat, his feet dangling in midair.Hagrid, no Dumbledore shouted, his eyes flashing.Hagrid removed the hand pinning Karkaroff to the tree, and Karkaroff slid all the way down the trunk and slumped in a huddle at its roots a few twigs and leaves showered down upon his head.Kindly escort Harry back up to the castle, Hagrid, said Dumbledore sharply.Breathing heavily, Hagrid gave Karkaroff a glowering look.Maybe Id better stay here. Headmaster.You will take Harry back to school, Hagrid, Dumbledore repeated firmly. Take him right up to Gryffindor Tower. And Harry I want you to stay there. Anything you might wan t to do any owls you might want to send they can wait until morning, do you understand me?Er yes, said Harry, staring at him. How had Dumbledore known that, at that very moment, he had been thinking about sending Pigwidgeon straight to Sirius, to tell him what had happened?Ill leave Fang with yeh. Headmaster, Hagrid said, staring menacingly at Karkaroff, who was still sprawled at the foot of the tree, tangled in furs and tree roots. Stay, Fang. Cmon, Harry.They marched in silence past the Beauxbatons carriage and up toward the castle.How dare he, Hagrid growled as they strode past the lake. How dare he accuse Dumbledore. deal Dumbledored do anythin like that. Like Dumbledore wanted you in the tournament in the firs place. Worried I dunno when I seen Dumbledore more worried than hes bin lately. An you Hagrid suddenly said angrily to Harry, who looked up at him, taken aback. What were yeh doin, wanderin off with ruddy Krum? Hes from Durmstrang, Harry Coulda jinx yeh right there, couldn he? Hasn Moody taught yeh nothin? Magine lettin him lure yeh off on yer own -Krums all right said Harry as they climbed the steps into the entrance hall. He wasnt trying to jinx me, he just wanted to talk about Hermione -Ill be havin a few words with her, an all, said Hagrid grimly, stomping up the stairs. The less you lot ave ter do with these foreigners, the happier yehll be. Yeh can trust any of em.You were getting on all right with Madame Maxime, Harry said, annoyed.Don you talk ter me abou her said Hagrid, and he looked quite frightening for a moment. Ive got her number now Tryin ter get back in me good books, tryin ter get me ter tell her whats comin in the third task. Ha You can trust any ofemHagrid was in such a bad mood, Harry was quite glad to say good-bye to him in front of the go Lady. He clambered through the portrait hole into the common room and hurried straight for the corner where Ron and Hermione were sitting, to tell them what had happened.