[John grins a bit in response.]

"Were"? So I'm not anymore? Willing to admit it's rather nice having actual friends instead of just research subjects?

[The grin turns a bit dry and sarcastic at the mention of Hufflepuff.]

Ah, yes, everyone's obsession with calling Hufflepuff the dumb also-rans of the Wizarding World, and of course all the jokes. I'll never understand why so many people forget that one fourth of everyone who goes or went to Hogwarts is or was a Hufflepuff.