Over Winter break, Harry got together with Arthur, and explained the situation with Snape. He also told him about the fact that the Headmaster had tried to probe him. Arthur was very concerned, but Harry assured him that his shields held, and the only thing Dumbledore saw was a dirty thought about his friend Hermione. Relieved, Arthur teased him about having a girlfriend already. The conversation turned serious again when the two of them went over Harry's plan for Snape. At first he was concerned that Harry not get caught, but, after the plan was finalized, and especially hearing Harry's reasoning behind the need for the death, he gave his blessing. Arthur also agreed to get the items that Harry needed before they went back to school.