Many an American train traveller has eagerly sought the services of a redcap--a helpful porter who will carry your luggage through the station. Riders of the Hogwarts Express, however, know well enough to keep their distance from red caps--at least the terryfing kind studies in Defence Against the Dark Arts. Also called a "bloody cap" or "red comb," a red cap is an evil goblin of English folklore that haunts the ruins of castles where bloody battles have occurred. With his long grey hair, firey red eyes, and protruding teeth, the red cap might be mistaken for a very ugly old man, were it not for his distinctive red hat, which gains its colour by being soaked in clood. He carries a walking stick tipped with a metal spike, and will happily use it against anyone foolish enough to wander into a ruined castle. After all, the blood of a fresh victim is just what's needed to brighten the colour of his crimson cap.
      For those who can't resist visiting old ruins, tradition holds there is one sure way to protect yourself against a red cap. Read the Bible aloud and he will utter a shriek and vanish, leaving behind one of his hideous teeth as a souvenir.