Step right up dear first years,
Now come on don’t be shy.
Take seat upon the stool,
For it’s on me you must rely.

Though tattered and mangy I may be
With rips and holes aplenty
With age and time comes wiser mind
Believe me I’m quite crafty.

Four founders were there in ancient times
Each valued different traits
Hundreds of pupils did they have
Though, separation was their fate.

If within your heart burns bravery and courage
Sheer nerve and daring echo as lions roar
Then paint yourself with gold and scarlett
Fates decree, you’re a Gryffindor.

For those who possess quick mind and wit
Whose intelligence never ceases to astound
The bronze and silver eagle is your guide
Prepare yourself! For your Ravenclaw bound.

Or perhaps your ambition is rife with cunning
Do your means always achieve your ends?
Then clad yourself in silver and green
For in Slytherin you will ascend.

Perchance hard work and tolerance is your anthem
Disloyalty you won’t permit?
Your blood will run black and yellow
For Hufflepuff is your fit.

So place me upon your head
This is my appointed task
To place you in the house were you’ll do best
Your future we will unmask.

One final word before we begin
Though separate houses may stand apart
Each bringing their strengths to bear
The truth is this: we are greater than the sum of our parts.

So stand firm in unity
Take hear t in your friendships within
Study hard and play harder
Now let the sorting begin!

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