That very sweet woman, Mrs James H. Kettlewell
The CBB -> St Clare's House
#1: That very sweet woman, Mrs James H. Kettlewell Author: BethC, Location: Worcester, UK PostPosted: Tue Jun 01, 2004 6:45 pm

Short and complete... (Can't remember if I've picked this idea up from somewhere, and if it was your idea originally then I do apologise!)

Then she suddenly sat bolt upright with horror. “Joey! It’s a very private letter! I –- “

“I s’pose you mean it’s a proposal!” Joey interrupted her. “Oh, I knew what was coming after the very first sentence! Oh, I say!” And she went off into fits of laughter.

Still laughing, Joey glanced up at her sister, expecting to see her own amusement reflected in Madge’s face. The elder girl, however, was sitting as if frozen, her face white and shocked.

“What is it, Madge?” asked Joey quickly.

Madge made an effort to pull herself together. “Th-that gypsy woman – remember, Joey, at the Spring Fair back in England? The one who told our fortunes?”

“Oh, her,” laughed Jo scornfully, “I remember. But you always say that’s a lot of nonsense.”

“But she told me – “ Madge stopped.

“What?” Joey’s curiosity was aroused.

“No, you’re right, Joey-baba. It’s just a coincidence.” But Madge did not look convinced.

“Madge! You can’t stop there! What did she tell you?”

Madge gulped. “She s-said… that I’d be going abroad soon, and that I’d meet my future husband on my travels.”

Joey’s eyes widened. “Well, yes, but isn’t that something everyone’s told? I mean, she told me – “

“Wait,” Madge interrupted, “She also told me his name.”

“And - ?”

“James.” There was a silence as Joey digested this. Then she shrugged her shoulders. “Well, I suppose that’s it then. Better get off at the next stop and wire your acceptance.” And, paying no heed to the pleasant-looking doctor in his early thirties who helped her find a porter at the next station, Madge did so.

 

#2:  Author: caz, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Tue Jun 01, 2004 7:04 pm

Laughing That was great, thank you!

 

#3:  Author: Cumbrian Rachel, Location: Kendal PostPosted: Tue Jun 01, 2004 7:04 pm

chuckling away! I like it! Very Happy

 

#4:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Jun 01, 2004 7:21 pm

Oh, poor Madge! Come on Beth - surely we can see further scenes?

 

#5:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 01, 2004 7:52 pm

*Splutters* *mops up coffee* *Why do I read these things with a mouth full of coffee?* That was a great short scene, thanks a lot.

 

#6:  Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Tue Jun 01, 2004 9:05 pm

Thanks Beth! But can't we see what life for Madge as Mrs James Kettleworth was like?

 

#7:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Jun 01, 2004 9:35 pm

*giggles* Love it!!!!

 

#8:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Tue Jun 01, 2004 9:48 pm

Fabulous alternative CS reality idea!!! I wonder what will happen to the school???

 

#9:  Author: Rosie, Location: Huntingdonshire/Bangor PostPosted: Tue Jun 01, 2004 11:20 pm

*giggles madly and wipes snot off the computer screen*

 

#10:  Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool PostPosted: Wed Jun 02, 2004 12:17 am

please continue this Beth - I loved that post! Very Happy

 

#11:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 02, 2004 10:14 am

Very good Beth! Mr. Green

 

#12:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Wed Jun 02, 2004 10:40 am

Brilliant! *snigger* Thank you!!

 

#13:  Author: BethC, Location: Worcester, UK PostPosted: Sat Jun 05, 2004 3:34 pm

Hmm... half-term, so brain had excuse for not doing work... Not quite what I wanted, I think, but anyway:

“Maggie!” called a concerned voice from the hallway, “Where are you, love?”

“In here, Jim,” replied Margaret Daphne Kettlewell, Maggie to her new husband, with a smile.

The door to the study opened and in bustled her husband, a little plump man, somewhat out of breath. On seeing his wife curled up at the desk, an expression of concern crossed his face. “Eh, me love, you’ll get cold sitting like that. Put this round you – that’s right. What you doing, love?”

“Oh, just writing to Joey – I haven’t answered her last letter yet.”

“How’s she doing at that school? Settled back in, ‘as she?” James had not had much contact with his new sister-in-law, who had chosen to spend most of her recent holidays with friends abroad, but he thought her a sensible young girl – nothing in looks compared to her sister, of course, but a nice enough kid, if a bit secretive.

“She seems to be enjoying herself, yes," said Madge with a slight frown. "You know I’ve been worried about her, so far away from me, but I must say the climate really seems to be suiting her, and she’s in the best of hands, especially now that that new Sanatorium has opened near the School.”

“That’s good, that is – ‘andy for the teachers, too, I reckon. Well, I’ll leave you to it, Maggie love – dinner’s on table in ‘alf-hour.”

“Mmm.” Madge’s thoughts had turned to the school she had founded just six months ago. From its humble beginnings, it had quickly risen to fame when after Madge’s marriage she had handed over the reins to her second-in-command. Elise La Pattre had immediately set up a variety of bank accounts in different names to deal with the money of the clientele she was bent on attracting, even adopting one of her aliases to disguise her original identity. Joey Bettany had proved invaluable to Therese Lepattre’s plans. A gifted linguist, yet young enough to appear innocent, the thirteen-year-old had been able to make many contacts among the rich and famous that Mlle Lepattre would invite to the exclusive dinner parties for which she was becoming known.

“I worry that you have become drawn in too far to this, Joey-baba,” wrote her sister. “I consented at first to Elise’s suggestion as it appeared that your talents would be stretched in this way – and as you know, my dear Jim (whilst not in any way begrudging of his wealth) was reluctant to pay unnecessary school fees, so paying your way seemed sensible. You, are, however, only thirteen, and your young mind should be free to concentrate on schoolwork and games, not the political machinations of the European upper class.”

“Political machinations?” grinned Joey to herself upon receipt of the letter, “She doesn’t know the half of it!” And, putting aside the rest to read later, she went up to her private room to change for the latest ball.

 

#14:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sat Jun 05, 2004 3:39 pm

Oooh!!!! More please!!!! I want to know what they're up to!

 

#15:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sat Jun 05, 2004 3:40 pm

OOoh very intrigued by it all Very Happy I hope your going to elucidate further soon!!!

 

#16:  Author: BethC, Location: Worcester, UK PostPosted: Sat Jun 05, 2004 3:48 pm

Hey, I did say "complete" for the first bit - it was only the strangeness of having a week without school that produced another bit! No guarantees of more - don't think I know too much about the European upper class in the 1920s Wink .

 

#17:  Author: Lula, Location: Midlands, UK PostPosted: Sat Jun 05, 2004 4:12 pm

Laughing Ooh, that's good! Will there be anymore?

 

#18:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jun 05, 2004 4:46 pm

Come on Beth - you must continue now - appetites all whetted and ready! Laughing

 

#19:  Author: James,  PostPosted: Sat Jun 05, 2004 5:04 pm

Wow, this is a great idea! Smile More, PLEASE!!

 

#20:  Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Sat Jun 05, 2004 5:09 pm

*g* Lovely interlude of Madge's married life, and can we find out what Jo is up to soon please Very Happy

 

#21:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Sat Jun 05, 2004 5:37 pm

Eh up, that were proper grand! More please!

 

#22:  Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans PostPosted: Sat Jun 05, 2004 8:46 pm

Very Happy Wonderful, if you can write more we shall all be eagerly awaiting it!

 

#23:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sun Jun 06, 2004 11:17 am

Appen we'll get summat more soon.

 

#24:  Author: Annie,  PostPosted: Sun Jun 06, 2004 1:08 pm

What on earth! This looks like being fun!

 

#25:  Author: caz, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Sun Jun 06, 2004 5:22 pm

Very Happy This is great, please keep going.

 

#26:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Jun 06, 2004 5:34 pm

ROFL ROFL ROFL Eeh! I see a new future for our Joey!

 

#27:  Author: Elisabeth,  PostPosted: Mon Jun 07, 2004 9:11 am

Please write more Beth! I want to see what Jem is thinking now.

 

#28:  Author: caz, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Mon Jun 07, 2004 9:43 am

And who he marries! Is he involved in the "political machinations" and shennanigans going on at the school?

 

#29:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Tue Jun 08, 2004 2:51 pm

Lovely lovely alternative story Beth. THought maybe Madge was going on a visit and would realise she had married the wrong James.

 

#30:  Author: Nicci, Location: UK PostPosted: Tue Jun 08, 2004 3:00 pm

Well you can't leave it there Beth. This is brilliant, pure genius in fact. Please continue.

 

#31:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 08, 2004 3:35 pm

Wow - I didn't realise this had continued!! Come on, Beth!! You mustn't leave it there!

 

#32:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster PostPosted: Tue Jun 08, 2004 6:11 pm

*giggles wildly* Please write more Beth, my imagination is running wild at the possibilities!

 

#33:  Author: Abi, Location: Alton, Hants PostPosted: Thu Jun 10, 2004 1:57 pm

*giggles wildly* THis is fantastic! PLEASE write more!

 

#34:  Author: Elisabeth,  PostPosted: Thu Jun 10, 2004 8:39 pm

megaphone MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE!

 

#35:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Thu Jun 10, 2004 10:21 pm

Why do I sense a but???Another fabulous post Beth I love the idea that a doctor just isn't good enough!!!

 

#36:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Jun 11, 2004 6:18 am

Thanks Beth - a very interesting post.Nice to see Madge is so happy. Does anyone else feel some unease with how the young Joey is developing? 'Meeting the right people' not something Joey would have said, certainly not at 16.

 

#37:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Jun 11, 2004 8:12 am

Another parody?

 

#38:  Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Fri Jun 11, 2004 8:15 am

Five children in three years Shocked Looking forward to Joey's visit!

 

#39:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Fri Jun 11, 2004 8:54 am

Definitely enjoying this ... Stand by for ructions when Joey arrives home .... (Perhaps she's chummed up with Thekla Wink )

 

#40:  Author: caz, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Fri Jun 11, 2004 9:10 am

Sounds like Joey's grown up a lot quicker in this version (less near death experiences, perhaps?). I'm glad Madge is happy. And I'm very curious about this party in Vienna, and what's going on at the school.

 

#41:  Author: Abi, Location: Alton, Hants PostPosted: Fri Jun 11, 2004 11:07 am

Why am I thinking Madge (or should I say Maggie Very Happy ) might get a shock when she sees Joey?

 

#42:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Jun 11, 2004 11:52 am

Hmm, what happened to good, sporting CS girls? Why are they so concerned about a social life and status?

 

#43:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Tue Jun 15, 2004 2:48 pm

Really like the way this is developing. I love all these 'what would have happened if' stories. Looking forward to Madge's visit. Hope some of the 5 children in three years were triplets.

 

#44:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Tue Jun 15, 2004 4:38 pm

Or two sets of twins!

 

#45:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 15, 2004 5:01 pm

Or quads...

 

#46:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Tue Jun 15, 2004 5:56 pm

Twins then triplets (although it would have been better if they had all been born within a year) - spot my evil streak! Twisted Evil

 

#47:  Author: BethC, Location: Worcester, UK PostPosted: Sat Jun 19, 2004 8:32 pm

This really isn't going where I intended. Sorry. I'll try to get it back!

“Now are you sure you’ll manage, love?” fretted James, wiping a large red handkerchief across his forehead as he helped his wife settle into a corner of the carriage.

“I’ll be fine,” smiled Margaret. “You go and sort out the factory workers – we don’t want another General Strike, do we?! Therese will meet us at the other end, and you know I speak the languages well enough to deal with any officials.”

Her husband patted her on the arm affectionately. “That I do, love – just make sure you keep yourself safe.” After they had said their farewells, Margaret reflected on the difference between her journey now and the one which she had taken with her younger sister when they first went out to the Tiernsee to start the Chalet School. Jim had lavished every comfort on her today, paying for the best service possible and going out of his way to make up for their disappointment at the emergency which had prevented him accompanying her and their infant son further than Paris. Yet she felt a sense of apprehension similar to, if not greater than, that which had beset her nearly five years before.

Joey had been singularly unforthcoming in her recent letters, despite having invited her sister to visit the school. Perhaps it was the news that Margaret was determined to bring the six-month-old St John – Jacky for short – rather than leaving him with Nurse and the two sets of twins: although protesting her eagerness to see the child, Joey’s letters had almost seemed to regard him as an inconvenience. No, she must be mistaken. After all, Jo must be studying hard at the moment, and she had always led such a busy social life in addition that it was a wonder she found the time to write even the short notes which had become normal recently.

Many changes later, Margaret stretched with relief as the little train neared the station. Therese and Joey would be waiting for her and she would be able to give Jacky into the care of one of the maids while she took a much-needed nap. As the train came to a standstill she looked eagerly out of the window – but the platform was deserted. Well, they must have been delayed, she thought philosophically as she began to fetch her cases down. Struggling with Jacky in one arm and her large case in the other, she was surprised to see a man approach from the waiting area.

“Would you be Mrs James Kettlewell, madam?” he asked.

“Why, yes,” she replied, not recognising him.

“My name’s Russell – Dr James Russell, at your service. I’m the head of the Sanatorium up here, and Mlle Lepattre asked me to meet you. Shall I take your bags?” He did so, passing them to a porter and giving Margaret little choice but to follow him to a shining new auto standing outside the station. “This is St John, I assume?” asked Dr Russell. “A fine young man. Now, it won’t take long to the school: are you comfortable, Mrs Kettlewell?”

“Quite, thank you,” Margaret responded, somewhat dazed by the way this man was taking command. She supposed it was kind of Therese to have arranged for someone of such evident standing to meet them, but she did long for a familiar face.

“My Sanatorium has benefited immensely from the proximity of such a reputable school, Mrs Kettlewell: I owe you my thanks,” said Dr Russell.

“It was a brave thing to attempt for one so young, and without even proper male assistance. Of course, now that the School has grown, it is only right that Mlle Lepattre should look to others for help with its development.”

Margaret roused herself enough to say, “I am sure that dear Therese does a most conscientious job. There is no-one I would rather have had take my place.” She was not sure what she thought of this man. He was rather too sure of himself and his importance, but there was no denying that he was attractive, and had an easy, confident manner which impressed her. Just the type of man, she thought, that would have appealed to her younger self.

“Here we are,” announced Dr Russell. “I’ll call Eigen to carry your bags.” But Margaret had eyes for no-one except the tall, slim, dark-haired girl waiting calmly outside the entrance.

“Joey! Joey-baba!” Clutching Jacky to her, she hurried towards her sister. “Oh, it’s so good to see you after all this time!”

“Madge! How lovely! And this must be St John. What a handsome chap he is.” Joey gave her sister the Continental double kiss. “You must see the latest buildings – they’ve the most gorgeous furnishings – I’ll take you to your room. Where’s Nurse? She’ll take St John off your hands and we can have a good old talk. How did you find the journey? Such a shame that James couldn’t accompany you.”

Madge felt herself stiffening slightly. Despite the flow of chatter, there was a lack of warmth in Joey’s tone, almost as if – but no, she was just tired. A good night’s sleep was what she needed.

 

#48:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jun 19, 2004 8:40 pm

Hmmm, interesting! Love Madge getting annoyed at Jem Russell taking over! Seems Joey is already well wrapped up in the School! Thanks Beth - very intrigued as to where this is heading!

 

#49:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Jun 19, 2004 9:32 pm

This is interesting, lots of hints dropped. Look forward to seeing where you go with it.

 

#50:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sat Jun 19, 2004 9:32 pm

This is very intriguing Beth! I'm wondering how exactly Joey has developed. So no quads for Madge then? *sighs*

 

#51:  Author: caz, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Sun Jun 20, 2004 7:27 pm

I love the meeting between Jem and Madge in that last post, thank you.

 

#52:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 22, 2004 9:40 am

Tantalising!! C'mon then - definitely need more ... Is Madge going to "regret" marrying Kettlewell now that she's been introduced to Jem?

 

#53:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Tue Jun 22, 2004 2:31 pm

Beth, explain yourself at once! (Said in my best Miss Annersley tones.)

 

#54:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Wed Jun 23, 2004 12:49 pm

Love the Madge and Jem meeting, is she going to feel stifled by him or wish she had someone like him to completely take over? Looking forward to hearing about the changes to the school - especially about the furnishings.

 

#55:  Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster PostPosted: Wed Jun 23, 2004 2:37 pm

only just caught up on this very good thanks Very Happy

 

#56:  Author: keren, Location: Israel PostPosted: Thu Jun 24, 2004 8:58 am

I like this one, almost like science fiction!

 

#57:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Jun 24, 2004 9:01 am

We need more to explain these mysteries.

 

#58:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 1:16 pm

Please may we have some more soon Very Happy

 

#59:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 3:11 pm

I second that request.

 

#60:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Sun Jul 04, 2004 10:52 am

Thirded! Very Happy

 

#61:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 6:24 pm

That's great! Very 'nurture over nature' with Joey growing into a quite different person in different circumstances! *Wonders if Jem has his oar in anyway, even without Madge*

 

#62:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 6:25 pm

I wish we could find out the answer to your question, PatMac.

 

#63:  Author: BethC, Location: Worcester, UK PostPosted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 9:00 pm

Just a bit for now - sorry it's been so long since I posted, (but thanks for the comments)! And apologies also for the way that it seems to be heading off in a rather different direction from the original idea... I think I'll end up writing alternative versions of this drabble, at this rate!

Madge – she could not think of herself as anything else in these surroundings – awoke early next morning, refreshed and content. Little Jacky had been placed in a cot in the next room, with a nurse to attend to him, and Joey had promised to bring her sister a cup of tea at six thirty, having seen that Madge was too tired for the promised talk the previous night.

Sure enough, as the half-hour chimed, there came a knock on the door and the neatly-styled head of the sister Madge loved so well appeared. “Oh Madge, you’re awake – good. I’ve rung for Sophie – she’s one of the maids – to bring us some tea.” She took a seat on the edge of the bed. “Now, how is the family? It’s lovely to see you again – how was the journey? I can’t wait to show you around – you’ll be amazed by how much the school has changed since you were here. And has – “

“Joey,” Madge cut in, “Stop!”

Brought up short, Joey gaped at her sister for a moment before recalling her dignity. “What is it, Madge?” she asked, somewhat coolly.

Madge hesitated. She did not know quite how to address the sophisticated young lady sitting before her, who suddenly seemed far removed from her beloved younger sister. Only – there was something not quite right about Joey’s attitude, and Madge could not quite put her finger on what it was. She settled for the general approach. “Are – are you quite all right, Joey-baba?”

“Why, of course – why wouldn’t I be?” Joey stared at her. “You know that Ther – Mlle Lepattre – looks after me well: you’ve really no need to worry.”

To Madge’s ears this did not quite ring true. “Are you sure? There seems to be something troubling you.”

Joey’s gaze fell for an instant, but she quickly recovered and met her sister’s searching look almost defiantly. “Madge, do stop fussing. I’m not a baby any longer, you know.” Madge was almost glad to see a return of the old quick-tempered Joey, but not giving her a chance to respond, Joey changed the subject. “Tell me about the children, Madge – how are they all getting on? And how’s Jim?” And, concealing her disquiet for the time being, Madge settled down to an orgy of family gossip.

 

#64:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 9:14 pm

Excellent - glad there's more of this -very weird - whatever has happened to Joey - why does she refer to Mlle as Therese???? Questions, questions, questions!!! Laughing

 

#65:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 9:30 pm

Oooh the mystery deepens! Lovely to see some more - thank you Very Happy

 

#66:  Author: Angel, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 9:45 pm

fascinating - Joey is a far stronger force in this - and is Thekla at the school?

 

#67:  Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 9:52 pm

Very interesting alternative - quite different from anything else. I'm glad it didn't stop after the first episode. Looking forward to more.

 

#68:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Tue Jul 06, 2004 3:08 pm

Please clear up the mystery for us.

 

#69:  Author: caz, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 9:56 am

*very intrigued*

 

#70:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 9:58 am

Wot, no more yet?

 

#71:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 4:42 pm

And still? So many questions, so little drabble... *sniff* ! Very Happy

 

#72:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 9:03 am

Yes, I do wish that there were more drabble! Sigh!

 

#73:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Fri Jul 09, 2004 1:39 pm

also now waiting for another episode of this.

 

#74:  Author: ellend, Location: Bow, London PostPosted: Tue Aug 24, 2004 5:11 pm

I've just read this for the first time Beth and really enjoyed it. I've no idea what has caused the change in Joey, but I'd love to see more. Loved the meeting between Madge and Dr Jem. Who's looking after the Bettany children, as they must be back from India? Ellen

 

#75:  Author: BethC, Location: Worcester, UK PostPosted: Sun Aug 29, 2004 9:08 pm

Embarassed I know it's been a while... Still very different from my original idea, but thought I'd better make some attempt to finish it!

Madge was growing more and more concerned. She was pleased that she had come back to visit – the scenery was just as she had remembered it, and the atmosphere still had that life-giving element which made her thankful that she had decided to let Joey stay in Austria without her. The Tyrolese folk were some of the friendliest she had met, too.

Tonight Jo had invited her to meet the rest of the prefects, and Madge looked forward to seeing the girls Jo had mentioned in her letters. Jo, however, although evidently much improved in physical health, seemed to her sister to be on edge. She had always been an energetic young thing, but since Madge’s arrival she had hardly been still for a minute, always dashing off to see about something. Madge could not decide whether Jo seemed pleased or nervous to see her – but why would her own sister be nervous of her? There was an undercurrent to the way Joey spoke that seemed to ask something of Madge – but what? So far, she had won no answers.

“Come along, Madge, the prefects’ lounge is this way,” announced Joey, leading her sister off at a sedate pace.

“I was so pleased to hear of your appointment as Head Girl, Joey-baba: I am sure Therese must depend on you for help with the younger ones. Now, I remember Marie von Eschenau, whom you said was in charge of Games, but you mentioned a cousin of hers, with whom you were quite friendly?”

“Yes,” Jo nodded, “Thekla von Stift is Second this year – Therese has appointed a body of prefects from different years to give a better representation of all sections of the school. I believe she consulted you?”

Madge thought back to the proposal, which she had read with interest, even though it had come at a particularly difficult time before the birth of her second set of twins. She had approved the idea, agreeing that it would be nice to give the younger pupils more of a say in the decisions of the school, and was interested to see for herself how it was working.

“What of the others your age? Frieda Mensch, now – such a nice girl? And Simone, of course? Are they also prefects?”

A shadow crossed Joey’s face at the mention of Frieda, but she merely replied, “Simone is, of course.” They arrived at a door, and Jo ushered her sister in, announcing to the room in general, “This is my sister, Madge – some of you knew her as Miss Bettany or Madame, but she’s now Mrs James Kettlewell, wife of one of the most influential men in British politics.”

Immediately a crowd surrounded Madge, eager either to renew her acquaintance or to be introduced. She recognised some faces and allowed Joey to introduce the rest. “Louise Redfield – her father’s very important in America,” - “You remember Margia? I expect you have often come across Sir Charles at receptions,” - “This is Liesl van der Brandt of the Fourth: her family are very well-thought-of in Germany these days.” Madge greeted each girl pleasantly, with a few extra words for those she remembered. “And this is Thekla,” Jo said, presenting a girl a year or two younger than herself, expensively dressed but with a slightly disdainful look on her face. Thekla held out her hand to Madge, who shook it warmly.

“I’m glad to meet you, Thekla – Joey has spoken highly of you in her letters.” Thekla made no response except to smile coolly. Perhaps the girl was shy, Madge thought. She smiled reassuringly and turned to her sister. “The room is very different from the original Prefects’ Room, isn’t it? What lovely curtains! I remember the pride with which Gisela and the rest equipped their little study – but I suppose things have changed.”

“Indeed,” Thekla took a hand. “Therese decided that we should have a room fit to entertain the best, and we employed Lorenzo Leone-Figlione, one of Europe’s leading designers, to see to this wing of the school – I’m sure you will agree, Mrs Kettlewell, that his work is of the highest quality.” Madge agreed politely, although secretly she would have liked to see the homely bookshelves and ornaments so proudly presented by the first prefects. Her attention was distracted, though, by a knock on the door.

“Come in!” called Joey. The door opened and a nervous-looking fair girl with plaits down to her waist entered hesitantly. “If you please, Jo, there is – Madame!”

“Frieda Mensch! How lovely to see you again, my dear. I hope you are well?”

“Why, yes, Madame,” stammered Frieda, glancing at Joey, “Er, I must go: Mademoiselle told me to inform you of a visitor in her study, Jo.” And the pretty Tyrolean fled, leaving Madge to stare after her, mystified. Before she could say anything, though, Jo led her sister to an elegant chair at the head of the table.

“I am sure you will be well looked after while I go and see who is waiting,” she said with a courteous smile, and with that she left Madge alone with the rest of the prefects.

 

#76:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Aug 29, 2004 9:27 pm

Oh!!! Nasty, the School has become completely rank/class conscious! Hope to God Madge does something about that! Who would have thought Mademoiselle would allow it??? Wonderful update Beth C- please continue.

 

#77:  Author: Bookwormsarah, Location: Cambridge, UK PostPosted: Sun Aug 29, 2004 9:50 pm

Hurrah! More please, and poor Frieda. Maybe the school needs a coup...

 

#78:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon Aug 30, 2004 12:45 pm

Yay, its great to see more. I hope Madge will do something about it!!

 

#79:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Mon Aug 30, 2004 5:27 pm

Eeek!!!!! This is quite a scary version of events!!!! More please!!!

 

#80:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Aug 30, 2004 7:19 pm

My mind is working overtime with guesses! All probably wrong Embarassed

 

#81:  Author: LadyGuinevere, Location: Leicester PostPosted: Mon Aug 30, 2004 8:17 pm

Yay! An update! This is really quite fascinating! Looking forward to seeing more of Frieda! ~LadyG

 

#82:  Author: BethC, Location: Worcester, UK PostPosted: Mon Aug 30, 2004 9:05 pm

Whilst Joey’s companions seemed well-brought-up and polite, many displayed that same lack of warmth Madge had noticed in her sister at times. They were never less than courteous, but the ex-headmistress felt uncomfortable at some of their comments and was not really sorry to be called away by one of the maids because St John was crying.

It was a real shame, she thought, that several of the girls she remembered had had to leave – little Maria Marani, for example, whose father had been so helpful in the early days of the school and Sophie Hamel, always so cheerful and down-to-earth. Their parents’ letters of notice had simply said that the girls would return to their previous arrangements as being more appropriate to their upbringing. Madge had accepted this at the time, but now began to wonder if there were other reasons. Still, there was no doubt that Elise had attracted many others in their place.

It had been something of a surprise to find that Frieda, a thoroughly nice girl, had not attained prefectship, but Madge put it down to her quietness amongst her peers. Simone, of course, had been at the meeting. Her former Headmistress had been astounded by the change in the French girl: the insecure, emotional child had virtually disappeared, to be replaced by a very sophisticated young woman who appeared fully confident in herself – indeed, Madge caught herself thinking, almost too confident at times.

At this point in Madge’s musings, there was a knock on her door and her sister entered. “Madge, old thing,” she began, “We – the staff and some of the prefects - are hosting a party this evening: shall I arrange for someone to look after St John so that you can attend?”

Madge smiled. “That would be lovely, Joey-baba. What sort of party is it?”

“Oh, just a small affair, nothing too formal, although I expect people will be dressing up for it. I should think your green frock would do, perhaps with the pearls.”

“Nothing too formal?” thought Madge in surprise, but she made no comment as Jo crossed to stand over St John’s cradle. The younger girl stood there for some time: intrigued by her stillness, Madge looked over, to see an expression of wistfulness on her sister’s face. “Isn’t he lovely, Joey? Do you remember when First Twins arrived? You were thrilled to be an aunt so young: I remember you writing of your friends’ reactions, saying how pleased Frieda and Marie were for you.” Jo made no reply, seemingly lost in thought. Madge continued, “And do you remember that first term after I was married? I often regret leaving you out here, but knowing that you had such dear friends was a relief to me. I knew that I could count on you to help carry on what I had started: such a happy school. We were truly blessed in our choice of location – the local people could not have been friendlier or more helpful, and the girls were so eager to learn and to be thoroughly “English”! Oh, I know I did the right thing, and dear Jim makes me very happy, but I do sometimes wonder how things would have turned out had I stayed on here.”

A faint, strangled sound broke from Joey’s lips, but she did not move. Madge took a deep breath, knowing that if she said nothing now then she might never do so. “Joey darling, what is it? You say there’s nothing wrong, and yet you’re not happy, are you?”

 

#83:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Mon Aug 30, 2004 9:16 pm

Ohhh!!!!! Please let Joey soften and confide in Madge!

 

#84:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Aug 30, 2004 10:25 pm

Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad So hope that Joey will speak to Madge properly. Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad

 

#85:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Tue Aug 31, 2004 10:26 am

Joey, talk to her please!

 

#86:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Tue Aug 31, 2004 2:47 pm

We want to know what has happened!

 

#87:  Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans PostPosted: Tue Aug 31, 2004 7:18 pm

I do hope Joey talks to Madge, it's horrible seeing her and the school like this.

 

#88:  Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Tue Aug 31, 2004 7:54 pm

Also hoping that Joey speaks to Madge, and that Madge takes the opportunity to sort the school out. At the moment it seems as though certain members of St Scholatikas would feel very at home there. Very concerned about Frieda, is she still at the school as a pupil, or she she one of the servants?

 

#89:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash/Aberystwyth PostPosted: Tue Aug 31, 2004 9:05 pm

Eeek! Not quite sure what's going on here! Joey, please talk to Madge *begging* Nice that Simone is more self-confident though.

 

#90:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Wed Sep 01, 2004 8:48 am

Blimey! Shocked Don't keep us in suspense Beth!

 

#91:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Fri Sep 03, 2004 1:34 pm

Gosh! What a change for the school. Hope Jo talks to Madge! Is Mademoiselle being held to ransom by Thekla's family?

Last edited by Susan on Tue Sep 07, 2004 10:37 am; edited 2 times in total

 

#92:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Sun Sep 05, 2004 11:07 am

This is like a Chalet School nightmare! All the best things about the school turned upside down. Deary me, what is the world coming to. Just see how good it was that Madge in "reality" stayed on at the school! And what high and mighty company Joey seems to have fallen in with! They all seem quite snake , wouldn't you agree? Or maybe that's just me, wanting to hiss at them with all the benefit of years of reading about Chalet girls hissing at offenders of the School's honour (and then getting into trouble for it!). This is a great alternative reality! Thanks for the story Beth, and please, more soon!

 

#93:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Sun Sep 05, 2004 11:48 am

More soon please!

 

#94:  Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria PostPosted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 8:13 pm

just read all of this ,fantastic, is there any more? Please

 

#95:  Author: Katie, Location: A Yorkshire lass in London PostPosted: Tue Dec 28, 2004 10:11 pm

I just read it all too. Is there any possibility of a continuation? Pwetty please?

 

#96:  Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 12:50 am

I think Beth left us on a crumbly path, which may leave us plummeting into the lake below without more story

 

#97:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 6:31 pm

ooooh this is good!!! more story?!

 

#98:  Author: BethC, Location: Worcester, UK PostPosted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 6:43 pm

Well, seeing as it's Christmas... Not entirely happy with this, but was determined to finish it this year!

The silence stretched out. Almost without knowing it, Madge was holding her breath, fearful of pushing her sister further from her. Then Joey lifted her head to show eyes heavy with tears. That was enough for Madge. She sprang to her sister’s side and drew the unresisting form into her arms, whereupon Joey broke down completely.

“Oh, Madge,” she sobbed, “how I’ve missed you!”

“Joey darling, it’s all right, I’m here now.” Madge stroked the black hair whose expensive styling suddenly seemed so out of place. “Tell me what’s wrong.”

“I never wanted this – not this for your school, Madge – and yet I didn’t resist: I should have been stronger! But it was all so exciting in the early days, so new –“

Tears threatened to overwhelm her, and Madge let her cry for a minute before asking, “What happened, Joey-baba?”

Joey struggled to regain some control of herself. “At first it was just social events, parties and so on – I suppose I felt important – what girl of thirteen wouldn’t? Therese encouraged me, gave me confidence, introduced me to people – I was grateful to her for taking care of me.”

“Oh Joey, I should never have left you over here alone!” Madge was horrified at her sister’s words. How had she allowed this to happen?

“It wasn’t your fault, Madge – I was quite happy to stay on. We all trusted Mlle La Pattre – and Therese isn’t a bad woman, not at all – I just think she never expected to be anything more than your assistant, and when the chance came to lead a thriving school just a few months into its growth, it went to her head. Maybe if you had been here for a little while more – but you’re so happy with Jim, and with the children.” Madge, head bent, could make no reply. Joey forced herself to continue. “It was such a happy place, so carefree and innocent – and yet we threw all that away, rejected those simple values. The worst thing is that I knew – I knew! And all I did was push it to the back of my mind, refused to think about it. I let myself believe that the only girls worth knowing were the so-called “highborn” ones, that the others were beneath my notice. Oh, we were never directly rude, we had it drummed well into us that a lady should behave politely to all classes – yet how many times have we refused invitations from the Mensches, who were so kind to us when you and I first came out here, Madge? And never once has Frieda complained or declared herself hard-done-by.”

Madge looked up. “I noticed that Frieda was not made a prefect – was it for that reason then?”

Joey acknowledged it with a guilty nod. “How could Therese rely on the daughter of a tradesman to represent her at the gatherings? Already we had a reputation as a somewhat progressive establishment, for allowing such people even to attend the school. I think Therese has at least kept some vestige of your ideals – she did try to stop Sophie Hamel leaving, but by then it was too late.”

Silence fell. Both sisters were reflecting on what might have been: Madge wishing that she had taken more notice of her unease at leaving Joey in the care of someone else, however trusted a friend Joey with a growing sense of shame as she remembered those girls – kind, decent girls – pressured into leaving. If only she had said something, had been true to her sister’s vision – if only she had not been caught up in the excitement. Only when her sister had returned had the enormity of the situation truly struck her: if only she had had the courage to face the truth before that. She tried to say something to this effect, but Madge was having none of it.

“I was responsible for you, Joey – when our parents died, I promised to take care of you, to bring you up as they would have wished. It is my fault that you have been led astray.” Joey tried to protest, but Madge motioned her quiet. Should she simply take Jo back to England? But how could she, having appeared to support her friend’s ideas, now face Therese? And how could she suddenly turn around and withdraw her blessing from her own school? Surely there was something more she could do? Surely she could somehow bring her influence to bear upon the school? Jim would understand her feelings – dear Jim how she missed him on his frequent trips to the Continent, especially now that the babies were beginning to grow up – but what could she do?

“Madge!” Jo’s clear voice roused her sister from her reverie. “What’s up, old thing?”

The elder girl raised her head and smiled at her junior. “How would it be, Joey, if I were to return?”


THE END

 

#99:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 11:10 pm

Yay, thank you for the pressie Beth, good to see Joey admit things were not quite right and loved Madge's idea.

Last edited by Ally on Wed Dec 29, 2004 11:41 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#100:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 11:16 pm

yay!!!! so glad joey sees how silly she's been, and that madge is going to make everything better again. nice conclusion but would have been interesting to see how thekla had reacted to madge's return.....

 

#101:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Thu Dec 30, 2004 1:07 am

Thanks for the update Beth. Good to see this finished before the end of the year.

 

#102:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Sat Jan 01, 2005 6:13 am

Aha! So Madge can move to the Continent, which will make it a better home base for Jim, and she will look after the school as well? Thanks Beth for finishing this at the end of the year! Aside:
BethC wrote:
"Contrary to popular belief, alcohol is not an integral part of cricket" - ECB Coaching Manual, p. 8.92
I like that - and I think there's something in the Cricket Australia manual similar to it - but after over 20 years' experience with cricket at various levels, I'd have to say that alcohol is indeed an integral part of cricket at all levels except the most junior age groups. Sad but true. Mind you, it does lead to amusements for the sober! Twisted Evil

 

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