Douglas shook the jumbled thoughts out of his head and, picking up on Dumbledore's last remark, suggested:
"As you know, many students have now developed the habit of exercising around the Black Lake in the morning, then using the early hours to study magic or memorize things.
"So, personally, I think we should set aside six thirty to seven thirty in the morning for a dedicated morning run and reading class.
"Mr. Lupin and I could serve as the supervising professors. What do you think?
"That would also let the students expend their energy during the day, effectively preventing them from wandering around at night...
"Of course, enrollment would be entirely voluntary. After all, not every student can get help from professors outside class."
Dumbledore frowned and gave Douglas, who was looking at him expectantly, a long look.
His last remark had only been an offhand comment. He had not expected Douglas to actually make a suggestion, let alone another one he had clearly planned in advance.
Finally, he glanced at Sirius and said:
"I'm afraid that won't do. There will be some changes at the school this year. The Ministry of Magic will station Dementors around the school during term...
"Unless you abandon your plan and we clear Sirius's name before school starts."
(Sirius is a transliteration of the name. To avoid confusion, this book consistently uses the People's Literature Publishing House translation: Little Heavenly Wolf.)
At the mention of Dementors, Sirius snorted disdainfully.
Douglas said firmly:
"Professor, you're the headmaster of Hogwarts. The students' activities will all take place within Hogwarts grounds. With you here, I imagine those Dementors wouldn't dare set foot inside sacred Hogwarts, would they?"
Dumbledore nodded.
"Of course. I told Fudge those Dementors were not permitted to enter Hogwarts...
"I can agree to this,