How we cite our quotes: (chapter.paragraph)
Quote #10
It was one of my more brilliant ideas, and between you and me, that's saying something. You see, only one who wanted to find the Stone – find it, but not use it – would be able to get it, otherwise, they'd just see themselves making gold or drinking Elixir of Life. My brain surprises even me sometimes… (17.137)
Here, Dumbledore inserts a little humility into the proceedings, as he pokes fun of the fact that he has so many "brilliant ideas" and lets Harry into the little secret that this one was one of the best. We're reminded, once again, of his power and wisdom as both a great wizard and as Headmaster of Hogwarts. Of course, his plan backfired a little bit, as Harry found himself holding the Stone in Voldemort's presence, but otherwise there was no harm done – at least, not this time, not to the good guys.