The ring on Dumbledore's finger -- I assume it is the former horcrux. Does Slughorn recognise it?

Dumbeldore's comment about Harry keeping his invisibility cloak with him at all times -- does it relate to any particular later event? I cannot think of any. Except possibly the very end?

The mystery of Tonks: Ginny thinks Mrs Weasley is trying to get her together with Bill. Hermione thinks Tonks is unhappy that Sirius is dead (well, she probably is, but more so).

There is also the misdirection of the potions teacher/dada teacher. Everyone assumes Slughorn will teach defence, and Harry thinks he cannot be an Auror now.

We are also reminded of Regulus' death at the hands of death eaters, only a couple of days after he "left".

And Ollivander's disappearance is mentioned, which has major relevance for the next book.

And the instant darkness powder is introduced.
Does the Decoy Detonator come in handy in this book at any time? I cannot remember. It feels like it should.
The love potion certainly does.

And Draco's visit to Borgin and Burke's suggests three of his later escapades in this book, at least (the hand of glory, the necklace and the cabinet).

What is it Draco shows him? Is it really a dark mark on his arm?


Harry tells Ron and Hermione about the prophecy. I loved how Rowling dealth with that: it was tense, then she has a telescope punch Hermione. It still works as an emotional moment, because you know Hermione squeezed the telescope as a reaction to the news, but it does not get bogged down. I also thoroughly enjoyed the description of Hermione as resembling half a panda. Not to mention the trembling owl.