The next morning, Harry wakes up to the sound of an owl tapping at the window. After being let in, the owl drops a newspaper on Hagrid before demanding payment of five bronze coins, otherwise known as Knuts. Hagrid says they have to leave soon to get everything Harry needs for school. Harry insists that he does not have any money, but Hagrid tells him about the inheritance from his parents. Hagrid tells Harry about Gringotts, the bank run by goblins and guarded by spells, curses, and even a dragon. Hagrid claims, “Gringotts is the safest place in the world fer anything yeh want ter keep safe—‘cept maybe Hogwarts” (48).

Hagrid and Harry leave in the boat, propelled forward by magic. Hagrid tells Harry about the Ministry of Magic, the governing body of the wizarding world that safeguards the existence of magic from Muggles. They take the Underground to London to buy Harry’s school supplies. In a dingy pub called the Leaky Cauldron, everyone seems to recognize Harry, welcoming him back eagerly. Several people introduce themselves, including Professor Quirrell, Hogwarts’ Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, who stutters and is very nervous. Hagrid leads Harry to the back of the pub, tapping the brick wall with an umbrella in a specific pattern.