Feeling a little tetchy?

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire: Chapter 27

Some of the unfamiliar British words and phrases that turn up are worth noting. I am usually able to discern their meaning from the context, and there are two in the beginning of this chapter. Hermione is said to be tetchy because of the teasing she has been getting as the thing Krum would miss the most. I assume that word means something similar to being touchy. So in reality, she would probably be more accurately described as more tetchy than usual.

The one I can really relate to now is the description of how the cruel winds skinned their hands and faces every time they ventured outside. Because Ohio (and many neighboring states) feel like Alaska these days, I understand what the word skinned means. That's what it feels like. I hope I have some skin left when summer comes. I'd like to get some tan on the old epidermis.

Meanwhile, back at the cave where we get a history lesson on the mysterious Mr. Crouch. Everyone, it seems, in this story is playing detective without much success.

What is Crouch up to? Is Snape a threat or not? Is Dumbledore, great man that Dumbledore, too trusting? Are Rita Skeeter's gossip-filled reports important, or just an annoying sidebar? Will Sirius be a hero and be able live in the light and out of the shadows?

Well, if you've read all the books or seen all the movies, then you know the answers. I will continue to stumble along in the dark and be grateful it's a figurative dark and not one that requires me to live like a dog and eat rats.

Now cold chicken legs ... those are a true treat. Maybe the best leftover you can discover in the fridge.