Harry and Ron were certain Sirius would lose, not because of blind faith in Hoare, but from a year of experience as classmates.

The house-elves at Hogwarts were so enthusiastic about Hoare, they feared he might not eat or dress well enough.

When Harry went on his nightly excursions to the kitchen for a snack, he only got dry bread unless Ron or Hoare accompanied him.

With Ron, he could get something warm to eat.