Neville was expecting this sort of retort. Astoria had always been curt and somewhat snotty even in official letters so he just laughed and was glad that he wasn't as uptight as she was. Shaking his head at 'why we were not informed sooner' ... if he had sent word sooner he would've gotten a note saying that his notice was too anticipatory as they had not seen any request from the Professor yet and they had more important things to deal with. Of course.
Dear Ms. Malfoy,
By the end of the year, means just that. By December 31st of 2024 our current Professor would like to retire and will be filing same forms with you shortly if he hasn't done so by the time you've read this reply. You had not received word before because the Professor only advised myself as a courtesy so that I may begin to find a suitable replacement and be fully prepared to give you my recommendation by the time he had filed his request for retirement. Now that he is doing so, I am advising you.
I'm sure if you see a problem with his retirement date, the Professor would not mind staying an extra month should the board see fit to request that of him.
As I have found a suitable replacement, Mr. Lupin would be happy to speak with the board and answer any questions they may have for him. If you do require any references, I can safely say that you will be receiving many glowing remarks about Mr. Lupin, mine would be among them having been taught by Mr. Lupin when I was younger.
Please do let me know if you need anything further Ms. Malfoy, myself and Mr. Lupin are ready anytime the board is, at your convenience as always.