Bernice asked her why she wanted to do such a crazy thing. “You don’t even know how to use a computer.”

Flora said, “Oh my, would I have to use a computer? Well, couldn’t I just get an online degree without a computer?”

“Maybe you can get a degree at the ‘Harry Potter Magic Shop’ where I got my table.”

Flora looked doubtful. “I don’t know whether I have the courage to go back there. It was such a harrowing experience. I lost my tooth and some of my hair was torn out and my dress was practically ripped off me.”

Bernice and Flora both remembered the ‘Harry Potter Magic Shop’ and the long trip to get there. It was daunting to consider making another trip.  And they hadn’t had any lunch that day.

Were there restaurants in the ‘old village?’ They had been so intent on finding the shop, and then there had been Flora’s broken tooth and torn dress, all this before the saw the Magic Shop so they hadn’t even thought of lunch until later when they were really hungry.

They decided to leave early in the morning, with a bag lunch to be on the safe side. Bernice wanted to tell them the small table she had bought there had been quite useful. There had been the lovely dinner party and Bernice had easily been able to seat twelve people in the space under the stairwell. Call it what you want, magic?

She wanted to buy some furniture polish for the table because there was a yellow spot on one of the legs. Then Flora could ask whether they sold degrees along with the magic wands, pink feathers, potions and whistles.

The train trip to the village was pleasant until, halfway there, rats began somersaulting down the aisle and approaching travelers with their paws held out for money. Flora pulled in her skirts and pretended to look out of the window until one baby rat pulled on her sweater, all the while squeaking in a sensitive way. Bernice reached across Flora’s bust and handed the child a coin.

They arrived at the Magic Shop just as the proprietor was opening the door. They smiled at her to show good will. The proprietor scowled and held the door ajar for them. Flora said, “Please show us your college degree section.” The proprietor said, “Why don’t you earn your degree online?”