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In Love and Sympathy-Update 29/12 p3
http://www.the-cbb.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=14&t=1715
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Thu Nov 30, 2006 4:14 am ]
Post subject:  In Love and Sympathy-Update 29/12 p3
“Hey David wait up,” called a voice.
David Russell stopped. “Rix,” he said, “What’s up?”
“Nothing much. Have you finished for the night?” asked Rix Bettany.
“Pretty much,” said David. “I had to write a few orders and site a drip on Ortho. Some idiot sent the patient up without doing any of that. I’m just heading back to Casualty now. I’m exhausted. I’m so over night duty.”
“Do you like Casualty?” asked Rix.
“Mhmm it’s not too bad,” answered David casually.
Rix gave him a keen look and raised an eyebrow.
“Yeah, I think if I was going to work any where Casualty would be my pick,” said David, “It’s so different. How’s ICU going?”
“Good, replied Rix, “I’m enjoying it, but I still feel like I don’t know anything. At least the nurses there are pretty good. They pretty much tell me what to do. Do you remember Bride's friend Nancy Chester.”
“Vaguely,” said David. “I haven’t seen her in years.”
“Well she’s working there at the moment,” said Rix. “Anyway a few of us are heading out for breakfast. Do you want to join us?”
“Okay,” said David, “I’m starving. Met you out the front in ten okay.”
“Okay,” said Rix, “See you then. Keep the ambo’s away. You don’t want to get stuck.”
David waved good-bye and hurried to Casualty. David Russell was doing a rotation in the Casualty Department at St Thomas’s in London. His cousin Rix Bettany was eighteen months older and working in the Intensive Care Unit at the same Hospital. The two boys had grown up together for the first 12-13 years of David’s life, when Rix’s parents returned from India and Rix moved to the Quadrant with his brother Jackie and sisters Peggy and Bride. David had missed having his cousins around, but still saw Rix and Jackie at school. He and Rix had always been close, since he was a toddler trailing after his older cousin, in a houseful of girls. When David started at St Thomas’s training College, he and Rix moved into a flat together. David handed over his patients to the day staff and was relieved to be finished for the night.
Author:  Lesley [ Thu Nov 30, 2006 6:26 am ]
Post subject: 
Nice start.


Thanks Fiona.
Author:  Cath V-P [ Thu Nov 30, 2006 7:24 am ]
Post subject: 
This looks interesting. Thanks Fiona.
Author:  Alison H [ Thu Nov 30, 2006 8:26 am ]
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Ooh good, it's nice to read drabbles about the boys in the clan!
Author:  Elisabeth [ Thu Nov 30, 2006 10:24 am ]
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This looks wonderful! I think it's sweet that the two cousins are working in the same hospital. I have to say I still can't get enough of doctors... Thank you Fiona
Author:  LizB [ Thu Nov 30, 2006 10:43 am ]
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Ooooh this looks interesting :D

Thanks, Fiona
Author:  leahbelle [ Thu Nov 30, 2006 11:05 am ]
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I like reading about the boys of the family. EBD always neglected them!
Author:  Imogen [ Fri Dec 01, 2006 1:55 am ]
Post subject: 
Thank you Fiona, this looks really good. Are Rix and Nancy a couple, I hope so!
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Fri Dec 01, 2006 8:34 pm ]
Post subject:  In love and Symapathy
David Russell wandered out to the front to wait for Rix and was glad to see he was already there.
“Hey David you remember Nancy Chester, don’t you?” he asked.
David nodded. Nancy was the same sunshiny person she had been when she was a kid.
“Hi Nancy, how are you?” he said.
“Good. How’s casualty going?” replied Nancy
“Good,” smiled David.
“Busy night,” asked Nancy.
“Was it ever,” was Dave heartfelt response. “It didn’t stop until closer to six in the morning. I don’t know why half the patients don’t wait and go see a GP or something. It seems crazy to wait in Casualty most the night, for the something a GP can fix in the morning and isn’t life threatening.”
“Oh well,” said Rix, “It’s their choice. Anyway, works over so I hereby ban all talk about work. Come on there’s a place around the corner that does great breakfasts.”
The three walked to the place and met a group of doctors waiting for them. David eyed Rix speculatively when he saw Nancy was the only nurse. Rix just shrugged and smiled.
“She only agreed to come if there was a group of us,” he said quietly to Dave. He took their orders and Nancy and David were left sitting together at the table.
“Your brave facing all this,” said David with a wave at the group.
Nancy shrugged. “I didn’t think he would do it to be honest,” she said.
“How’s the family?” asked David. He had known them slightly for years.
“Good,” said Nancy with a smile. “Beth loves being a Mum. She has a two year old and a new baby. Barbara only has one term to go before she will be heading off to St Millie’s in September and Janice is still the same Janice. How are Sybil and Josette? Is Josette looking forward to St Millies?”
David nodded “I think so,” he said guardedly.
Nancy seeing David looked uncomfortable tactfully changed the subject. The two chatted about inconsequential things until Rix returned and he and Nancy were soon embroiled in a spirited discussion. David’s mind soon wandered off. He was thankful Nancy hadn’t asked about Sybil. Sybil was one subject that was difficult to talk about. Neither Sybil nor David had been particularly close when they were little. David had tended to ally himself with Rix or his cousin Primula Venables. It was only when both of them had been left behind when their parents had gone to Canada that they had started to spend a lot more time together. Over the past year their relationship had only become closer and David’s heart ached for what Sybil was going through. Only he and his parents had any idea of the true story behind why Sybil hadn’t started her Art Needlework Course, the rest of the family had no idea at all. David only hoped that going to Australia with her parents and Josette would help Sybil. David knew Josette was struggling with the idea of having to go to Australia but both Jem and Madge felt Sybil needed someone close to her own age for company and Sybil was only just starting to become more like her old self again. David sighed. He knew full well how difficult the conversation would be between his Mother and Josette regardless of the fact that Josette would only be going for the first year before returning to do her course the following September and the only thing she’d miss out on was St Millie’s. She hadn’t been happy about it during any of the school holidays and David doubted she was reconciled to the idea despite her best efforts or their Aunt Joey’s when Josette had asked her to intercede on her behalf.
“Isn’t that right David?” said Rix.
“What?” said David, “Sorry I wasn’t listening.”
Rix grinned, “So what’s her name?” he asked innocently.
“What?!” exclaimed David. “Don’t be a bigger idiot than you can help.”
Rix laughed. “I’ll see you tonight,” he said. “I need to walk Nancy home.”
“I can managed to walk myself home,” said Nancy with spirit.
“Nancy,” said Rix in mock seriousness, “When a gorgeous young man offers to walk you home, you accept graciously, not turn him down.”
Nancy started to laugh. “It seems I have no choice,” she said good humouredly. “I’ll see you late David. It was nice seeing you again.”
“You too Nancy,” said Dave with a smile.
David wandered home, feeling the effects of night shift starting to wear him down. He could never understand how Rix never went straight to bed after night shift but stayed up for a couple of hours. David felt ready to drop.
Author:  Lesley [ Fri Dec 01, 2006 11:22 pm ]
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Hmmm, very curious about Sybil.



Thanks Fiona - Rix has got it bad, hasn't he?
Author:  Fatima [ Sat Dec 02, 2006 8:12 am ]
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Yes, I'm eager to hear more about Sybil, too! Thanks Fiona.
Author:  LizB [ Sat Dec 02, 2006 12:52 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: In love and Symapathy
Fiona Mc wrote:
Only he and his parents had any idea of the true story behind why Sybil hadn’t started her Art Needlework Course, the rest of the family had no idea at all.


Please tell us, too

Thanks, Fiona :D
Author:  leahbelle [ Sat Dec 02, 2006 7:22 pm ]
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Am also intruiged about Sybil.
Author:  Vikki [ Sat Dec 02, 2006 8:11 pm ]
Post subject: 
Hmmmm....
Curiouser and curiouser. Wonder if my guess about Sybil is the right one..... :?
Author:  Jennie [ Sat Dec 02, 2006 8:59 pm ]
Post subject: 
Please let us know what went wrong for Sybil.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sun Dec 03, 2006 12:01 pm ]
Post subject:  In love and Sympathy
“Okay we have a gentleman in his fifties who has lost conciousness. BP 80/50. Heart rate 130, resps are shallow and about 38 per minute. His O2 Sats are in his boots. He’s had a couple of litres of Normal Saline. Seems to have a few broken ribs. His wife, seems to have a compound fracture of her tib and fib, fairly nasty one to.” David agreed seeing the bone sticking through he skin.
“She doesn’t remember much. Okay we need to get these people to X-ray and someone needs to find out if theatre can take them. Any family with them?”
“A girl in her mid twenties. Says she their niece.”
“Okay we need to get these people stabilized.”
Everyone worked frantically for the next couple of hours.
“David, go talk to their niece and get permission to operate,” ordered the surgeon. Dave hurried out to the waiting room.
“Excuse me, Kathie Ferrars is it?” asked David nervously.
Kathie nodded, “Please,” she said “Could you tell me what they’ve done with my Aunt and Uncle? Nobody is telling me anything.”
David took a deep breath. “My name is Dr David Russell. Would you come with me please? We need to talk privately.” Kathie nodded. She looked plainly terrified. “What is the problem?” she asked trembling.
David smiled, “Both your Aunt and Uncle are alive. Your Aunt has a fairly nasty looking compound fracture. She seems to have a touch of concussion and didn’t know where she was initially, but is now able to tell us her name, where she is and the day it is. We will need to take her to surgery. She is aware and has given her permission.”
Kathie breathed a sigh of relief, “And my Uncle,” she asked.
“Your Uncle, however is more serious. He has internal bleeding, it looks like a lacerated liver; a pneumothorax, a collapsed lung,” explained David at Kathie’s bewildered look. “He is also still unconscious. We need to operate to stop the bleeding and I need your permission.”
David gently went through the procedure, which Kathie signed the consent.
“Will he be all right,” she asked in shock.
“We don’t know. His condition is extremely serious. If you like you may come through and see your Aunt,” said David gently.
“Thanks,” said Kathie gratefully.
“Mary is the nurse caring for your Aunt, so I leave you with her.”
“Thanks,” said Kathie feeling close to tears, “Thanks for everything.
Author:  LizB [ Sun Dec 03, 2006 12:03 pm ]
Post subject: 
Meeeep! poor Kathie :cry:

Thanks, Fiona
Author:  Fatima [ Sun Dec 03, 2006 1:01 pm ]
Post subject: 
Oh, poor Kathie. :cry:
Author:  leahbelle [ Sun Dec 03, 2006 1:27 pm ]
Post subject: 
Oh, poor Kathie :( .
Author:  Lesley [ Sun Dec 03, 2006 7:22 pm ]
Post subject: 
Her uncle sounds very unwell - hope everything will be OK.


Thanks Fiona.
Author:  Cath V-P [ Sun Dec 03, 2006 11:00 pm ]
Post subject: 
Oh, that's worrying....

Thanks fiona
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Mon Dec 04, 2006 12:38 am ]
Post subject:  In Love and Sympathy
It was a long night and David was kept busy as there seemed to be ambulance after ambulance coming through. By morning he was exhausted and ready to go home. He saw Kathie leaning against the wall outside the Hospital. She looked exhausted.
“Hey I heard your Aunt and Uncle made it through their operations all right,” he said hurrying over to her. “That’s great news.”
Kathie tried to smile. “Yes,” she said looking ready to collapse herself.
“Kathie,” said David gently, “have you had anything to eat.”
Kathie shook her head. “Then come with me,” he commanded. “I think you need something to eat and drink.”
Kathie allowed herself to be guided to the café around the corner. David pushed her into a chair and was soon back with coffees.
“It’s okay,” he said gently. “You’ve had a pretty nasty shock. Did you want to talk about it?”
“I don’t know how you do it,” said Kathie, “That was awful in there. I’ve never seen Uncle or Auntie looked like that. They were coming to pick me up from the station. I teach at a boarding school and Uncle and Auntie were picking me up and they seemed to be late, so I walked to the front of the station and there was a car accident and ..and..Uncle was lying on the side of the road, with Auntie.” Kathie gave a shudder. “The ambulance was on the way. It was horrible waiting. I thought Uncle was going to die. How bad is it likely to be?” she asked.
“It’ll be a long haul,” said David quietly. “They’ll probably spend the rest of the year in Hospital, but they will more than likely make a full recovery.”
“But they said Uncle is in Intensive Care.”
“Kathie that just means we want one nurse looking after him and no one else. He just needs the extra attention, but he pulled through the operation, which is good. We’ll take it one day at a time.”
“Okay,” said Kathie shakily.
“You’ve had a pretty nasty shock, it’s going to be pretty hard on you. Cut yourself some slack,” said David gently.
At those words Kathie broke down and started crying. David put his arm around her. “It’s okay. You need to let it out.” Kathie sobs soon subsided.
“Here’s a hanky,” said David passing her his.
“Thanks. I’m sorry for crying on your shoulder,” she said embarrassed.
“That’s okay, I’m a doctor. That’s what I’m here for. Now I think you could probably do with some sleep, have you got any where to stay?”
“I don’t know,” said Kathie with confusion, “Auntie’s house is in Clinton.”
“That’s a bit of a drive,” said David.
“Oh my luggage,” wailed Kathie interrupting him. “It’s still in the waiting room at the station.”
“Well how about we go get it, or at least see if it’s still there,” said David, “and then we can find you a place to stay. They do have Hotel’s around the Hospital or we can see if there is a spare bed at the Nursing Home in the Hospital.”
“Thanks,” said Kathie, gratefully.
David went to the Train station where fortunately Kathie’s trunk had been taken to lost property. They collected it at returned back to the hospital.
“I’ll just stay in a Hotel tonight. I can find out later about accommodation,” said Kathie quietly. “Thanks for your help. I don’t know what I would have done with out you.”
“Your welcome,” said David with a smile. “I hope your Aunt and Uncle are okay.”

I am assuming in the late 1950's that the train stations in the UK would had lost properties etc. I know nowadays there probably isn't and any bag left behind would more than likely be searched by police due to terroism, but I thought that didn't happen until the early 1970's. So my apologies if that is incorrect
Author:  Fatima [ Mon Dec 04, 2006 3:50 am ]
Post subject: 
David's lovely here! Thanks Fiona.
Author:  Lesley [ Mon Dec 04, 2006 7:53 am ]
Post subject: 
David is lovely - just what Kathie needs. Wonder how long it'll take to work out she works at his mother's School?


Thanks Fiona.
Author:  LizB [ Mon Dec 04, 2006 10:01 am ]
Post subject: 
How nice of David :D

Thanks, Fiona
Author:  Ruth B [ Mon Dec 04, 2006 1:42 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: In Love and Sympathy
Fiona Mc wrote:
I am assuming in the late 1950's that the train stations in the UK would had lost properties etc. I know nowadays there probably isn't and any bag left behind would more than likely be searched by police due to terroism, but I thought that didn't happen until the early 1970's. So my apologies if that is incorrect


I think you're probably right. It's only when the IRA stepped things up that luggage became items of suspicion.
Author:  Tara [ Wed Dec 06, 2006 12:32 am ]
Post subject: 
Poor Kathie - but lovely David.

Thanks, Fiona.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Wed Dec 06, 2006 12:53 am ]
Post subject:  In love and sympathy
David walked slowly home. He felt dead on his feet and yet there was something about Kathie’s face that attracted him to her. David sighed. He didn’t know anything about her and it wasn’t the done thing to start seeing your patients family members however much you may want to and “she probably has someone else,” said David aloud as he walked inside his flat.
“Talking to yourself,” observed Rix. “You do realize it’s the first sign of senility don’t you.”
“I don’t know how you manage to stay awake and not collapse into bed the first chance you get,” said David tiredly. Night shift seemed to drain every ounce of his energy.
“Never mind that,” said Rix waving David’s words aside. “You’ll never guess what. I’ve found a place to stay this Summer for our holidays.”
“That’s good where?” asked David tiredly.
“Guernsey,” said Rix excitedly. “Nancy said her Aunty Janie has a holiday house their right on the beach that we could rent for a couple of weeks. She has holidays around the same time or rather she’s asking for leave then. Bride, John and Primula have said they’ll come and Bride is bringing her old school friend Elfie and most of the Chesters, and Lucys will be on the Island and Sybil will come won’t she and Josette?” asked Rix counting off the number of people.
“I think Sybil will,” said David rousing himself, “but I don’t know about Josette. Anyway I thought we weren’t asking anyone still in school. We just wanted the older ones?”
“Josette will have finished school by then,” reminded Rix good humouredly. “You must be exhausted. Go to bed and I’ll organized everything.”
“Thanks, your kindness is overwhelming,” said David sarcastically, trudging off to bed. He paused at the door, “You really must like Nancy if you’re inviting her along on the holiday,” he said before vanishing out of the room. Rix just smiled thinking about Nancy. He was falling for her completely and utterly. Although he had known her most of his life, he was starting to see her in a different light now. She had such a caring friendly manner at the Hospital with all the patients and managed to keep her head regardless of what was happening around her. Rix sighed, he only hoped Bride wouldn’t mind him falling for her friend.
Author:  Lesley [ Wed Dec 06, 2006 8:52 am ]
Post subject: 
Awwww, how cute Rix is. :lol:


Thanks Fiona.
Author:  LizB [ Wed Dec 06, 2006 9:31 am ]
Post subject: 
Lovely :D

Thanks, Fiona
Author:  Alison H [ Wed Dec 06, 2006 9:59 am ]
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Thanks Fiona :D .
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Wed Dec 06, 2006 1:26 pm ]
Post subject:  In love and sympathy
The next night David found time to check up on the Graysons-the older couple that had been brought in the previous night. Mr Grayson was in ICU, while Mrs Grayson was on the Orthopaedic ward.
“Hullo Mrs Grayson,” said David with a smile at the older lady. “I’m sure you don’t remember me but I was one of the doctors caring for you in Casualty.”
“Hello,” said Mrs Grayson with an apologetic smile. “I’m sorry I don’t.”
“That’s understandable you had so many of us caring for you last night.” Said David gently, “My name is Dr David Russell.”
“Oh you’re the kind doctor who helped my niece Kathie out this morning,” broke in Mrs Grayson, “Thank you so much for doing that.”
“Your welcome Mrs Grayson,” said David, “I was glad I could help and Miss Ferrars certainly had a nasty fright..”
“Miss Ferrars is it,” broke in a voice, “It was Kathie this morning.”
David blushed, “I’m sorry,” he said in confusion.
“David please call me Kathie, after everything you have done for me today,” said Kathie leaving things unsaid.
Mrs Grayson watched the look of her nieces face and saw how both she and David were looking at each other, decided to step in and say something.
“How is Uncle today Kathie, no one has said anything to me,” she said plaintively. “He’s doing well,” said David with a smile. “I stopped off in Intensive Care to see him and he is doing as well as we would expect at the moment. He has pulled through the operation and is stable, so we’ll just see how things are going.”
“Oh I’m so glad,” said Mrs Grayson with relief.
“Mrs Grayson,” said David seriously, “your husband does have a long way to go, but we will do everything we can to bring him through.”
“I know,” said Kathie softly, “Thank you we do appreciate it.”
David looked up and looked into Kathie Ferrars brown eyes and knew then that he was falling in love with her. ‘David you can’t do that,’ he told himself.
“Anyway,” he said tearing himself away, “I better go to work. My shift starts in a few minutes.”
“Thank you for coming to see me,” said Mrs Grayson, looking at David, “it was lovely of you to see me.”
“Your welcome. I like to see how all my patients in Casualty are doing once they go to the wards,” said David with a smile.
“He certainly is a lovely young man,” said Mrs Grayson looking after David as he left the room. Kathie nodded not trusting herself to speak and hoping her Auntie hadn’t guessed how she felt about David. Mrs Grayson had seen it all but with great tact did not say anything.
Author:  Fatima [ Wed Dec 06, 2006 4:22 pm ]
Post subject: 
This is lovely, thanks Fiona. :D
Author:  Jennie [ Wed Dec 06, 2006 4:26 pm ]
Post subject: 
Mmm, so that's how the cookie crumbles, is it?
Author:  bethany [ Wed Dec 06, 2006 7:20 pm ]
Post subject: 
This is such a nice drabble! It is nice to find out more about David and Rix - once they go to school we hardly hear anything about them in the books.
Author:  LizB [ Wed Dec 06, 2006 11:00 pm ]
Post subject: 
Looks like Kathie reciprocates David's feelings - yay!

Thanks, Fiona :D
Author:  leahbelle [ Thu Dec 07, 2006 2:40 pm ]
Post subject: 
I think Kathie and David would make a great couple.
Author:  Miranda [ Thu Dec 07, 2006 2:48 pm ]
Post subject: 
I second that!
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Fri Dec 08, 2006 11:24 pm ]
Post subject:  In love and sympathy
It was a few days later and David was back working day shift. He decided to stop off and see Mr Grayson in ICU and bumped into Nancy at the same time.
“Your looking after him Nance?” asked David in surprise.
“Well I am a nurse,” retorted Nancy with some asperity.
David looked at Nancy in surprise. “I’m sorry,” he said formally “It wasn’t what I meant.”
“I know,” said Nancy in a small voice, “I’m sorry I snapped at you. It’s not you I’m annoyed by.”
“Rix?” asked David gently.
Nancy nodded tremulously.
“Nancy your on first dinner break and Sue is second,” said the charge nurse walking over.
“Thanks,” said Nancy quietly. “David would you like to have dinner with me.” David nodded. “I’ll pop down and get something to have in the staffroom” he offered.
“Thanks,” said Nancy quietly.
Ten minutes later after Nancy had told Sue all about her patient, she met David in the staffroom. They sat down in a corner together.
“What is it Nance?” asked David gently.
“It’s Rix,” whispered Nancy before falling silent.
“I know he likes you,” said David encouragingly.
“I know,” said Nancy looking close to tears, “but he’s one of my closest friends’ brother and it doesn’t feel right and I know a lot of nurses like him and they don’t like me..” her voice faltered.
David understood what she was trying to say. “Are they giving you a hard time?” Nancy nodded looking miserable.
“Nancy, it’s not your fault you and Rix both care for each other,” said David still gently. “Those that care about you will be happy for you and the rest aren’t really your friends.”
“It’s not just that. A lot think I’m getting special treatment because of it,” explained Nancy.
“What!” exclaimed David surprised, “but he’s not a consultant or anything.”
“I know but he is your cousin and Sir James Russell’s nephew and that does carry some weight,” said Nancy ruefully.
“Nancy I’m sorry people are treating you like that. I wish I could say something but that’s likely to make things worse,” said David sighing. “The only thing you can do is hold your head high.”
“I know,” said Nancy. “Anyhow I’m not about to let a bunch of gossips rule my life. Thanks David, or is it Dr Dave?” she asked mischievously.
David groaned. “Don’t you start,” he begged. “Ever since Dad said he and Uncle Jack were referred to as Dr Jem and Dr Jack, Rix has been calling us that.”
Nancy started laughing. David joined in noting a few sour looks he and Nancy were getting from a few of the nurses and had an idea. He wondered how he could put his idea into action when one of the other nurses gave him an opening.
“Enjoyed your dinner?” asked one of the sour faced nurses a trifle maliciously. Nancy went red at her tone but held her head high.
“Yes I did thank you,” she said sturdily.
David looked at the nurse, “Nancy is an old friend of the family,” he said easily. “Our parents are friends. And she went to school with my younger sister Sybil though I believe she was in my cousin Bride’s form at school. Bride’s brother is Dr Rix Bettany. I’m sure you know him.”
Nancy struggled not to laugh at the look on the other girls face was a study when she found out the family connection.
“I didn’t realize,” said the nurse a little ungraciously. Much to Nancy’s relief the subject was dropped but a lot of the problems she was experiencing from some of the nurses eased a little.
Author:  Alison H [ Fri Dec 08, 2006 11:27 pm ]
Post subject: 
Well, people are bound to be jealous that Nancy knows 2 such nice doctors ... :lol:
Author:  Lesley [ Sat Dec 09, 2006 9:09 am ]
Post subject: 
Well done Nancy and David.


Thanks Fiona.
Author:  LizB [ Sat Dec 09, 2006 6:40 pm ]
Post subject: 
*pokes the nasty nurses*

Thanks, Fiona
Author:  Lyanne [ Wed Dec 13, 2006 12:02 am ]
Post subject: 
Silly nurses should be cosying up to Nancy to be invited to parties with lots of doctors...
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sat Dec 16, 2006 6:21 am ]
Post subject:  In love and sympathy
David gradually over the next three weeks spent a lot more time with Kathie. He never felt comfortable about asking her out to dinner but tried his hardest to help her as much as he possible could. He was so unobtrusive in his efforts that Kathie often said afterwards she didn’t know how she would have gotten through that time without him. It was close to the end of Kathie’s holidays when she realized that she need to go home to repack her trunk for a new term at the Chalet School and asked David if he wanted to make the journey with her. Kathie was quaking slightly when she asked. It wasn’t the done thing but she sensed David wouldn’t suggest doing anything outside the Hospital. David leapt at the chance soothing his conscience that he was helping his patients family. The two enjoyed the car journey down to Clifton, Kathie’s home town. Neither felt like talking much but both felt so completely comfortable and relaxed. It was only when they were making their home journey that they encountered any problems and David’s car ran out of petrol. I’m so sorry Kathie but the petrol stations are miles away and they’re probably closed. Kathie just laughed and snuggled down into her seat. That’s okay she said composedly. I could be stuck with worse people.
“Are you looking forward to going back to work?” asked David
“Yes and no,” admitted Kathie. “Part of me doesn’t want to leave Auntie and Uncle but another part of me would like a break. Auntie insists I go back to work.”
“She’s right,” said David thoughtfully, “it’s wearing being at the Hospital every day the way you have been.”
Kathie sighed. She knew she would miss David when she went back to school but knew she could never ask to write and that David would never suggest it with a patients family member. Knowing it would be one of the few chances she would have alone with him Kathie refused to sleep and the two of them stayed awake chatting.
"We should stay awake and watch the sunrise," suggested Kathie laughing. David smiled. “I remember my cousins Primula, Bride and I got up early one morning and did just that,” said David dreamily, “We didn’t tell anyone and Prim and Bride had always wanted to. Prim was staying with us for a holiday. It was fun. Marie caught us sneaking back in but she made us hot chocolate in front of the fire. It’s one of my most favourite memories. I never saw anything lovelier or colder” he added
“I wish I had cousins like that said Kathie wistfully, “but I’ve always been a one and only.”
“There’s always been hordes at our house, said David laughing a little. “My younger sister said she like having them when she remembered she liked them otherwise she wished we were on our own with Mum and Dad. I guess I can understand that a bit, but I did miss having the boys around.”
“How many were there?” asked Kathie curiously.
“Eight mostly,” said David, “though sometimes Primula and Daisy lived with us and sometimes they lived with Aunty Jo”
“I just can’t imagine it,” said Kathie
The two fell silent as the sun came up and David soon set off for the nearest town for petrol. The man at the garage gave him a lift back and David soon had the car filled.
He looked at Kathie humourously, “You know what they say, if you spend the night with a barman’s daughter then you only have to buy another beer but if you spend the night with the vicars daughter you have to marry her.”
“So where does that leave me said Kathie laughing, “I’m neither.”
David and Kathie looked at each other and in that look both knew there would never be any other. David sighed and they drove home neither wanting to break the mood. “Well I guess I’ll see you later,” he said when he arrived back at Kathie’s Hotel and the porter had reached the car to help with the luggage.
Kathie smiled, “Thank you," was all she said.
David smiled all the way home, knowing he would one day ask Kathie out but also knowing it would be when her Aunt and Uncle were well again.
David arrived home and Rix bounded out of the flat, “David,” he said wildly, “Your Mother rang, Sybil’s collapsed.”
“What!" was all David said his eyes wide with fear. “Call her and let her know I’m heading home.” He leapt into the house and hurriedly threw all his clothes into his bag and left again.
David drove to his parent home in Armshire, his heart in his mouth all the way there.
“Mum,” he said hurrying into the house, “What happened?”
Author:  Alison H [ Sat Dec 16, 2006 10:03 am ]
Post subject: 
Oh dear, hope Sybil's OK.

Running out of petrol :lol: - nice one David, and Kathie seemed to appreciate it!
Author:  Fatima [ Sat Dec 16, 2006 11:55 am ]
Post subject: 
I hope Sybil's ok and that we get to hear more about her!
Author:  Lesley [ Sat Dec 16, 2006 12:07 pm ]
Post subject: 
Does Kathie still not know???


Poor Sybil.


Thanks Fiona.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sat Dec 16, 2006 11:00 pm ]
Post subject:  In love and Sympathy
No Lesley, Kathie still doesn't know. They never discuss work

Josette was staring out of the train window. It was the last time she would ever make this journey as a pupil at the Chalet School. She stared at the green fields, thinking about her impending trip to Australia. She was still stunned at her Mother’s decision; stunned and angry. It was a little unusual on her Mother’s part. She was normally so supportive of all her daughters dreams and plans. Although she hadn’t been keen to have all her daughters go to the Swiss branch of the Chalet School she had agreed when all her daughters said they wanted to go. She had been supportive of all their career choices and yet this past year her Mother had done a complete turnaround. During the Christmas school holidays she had tried to broach the subject with her Mother and her Mother had ended the conversation by saying, “I can’t discuss this with you at the end of your school year. I’m sorry Josette I know it’s terribly unfair for you and I wish more than anything that no one had told you, but I can’t until then.”
Madge looked upset and David who happened to be visiting that day Josette had raised the topic spoke to her privately.
“Jo,” he said quietly, “Please don’t badger Mum over it. I know it’s extremely unfair on you, but Mum does have a very good reason for not discussing it. She and Dad are going through a rough patch at the moment and things could change by the end of your school year. I know she’s hoping you will be able to go on to St Millie’s, but there’s no guarantee and she doesn’t want to raise your hopes over it all,” and he added, “please leave Sybil alone about it all. I know you think it’s strange that she went back to St Millie’s rather than doing her course but there is a reason for it all.” David refused to elaborate and Josette agreed somewhat reluctantly to leave Sybil alone, but she decided she would at least ask her Auntie Jo to intercede on her behalf about going to Australia. Josette could see an immense change in her older sister. For starters Sybil hadn’t gone to Kensington School of Art Needlework but had instead returned for a second year at St Millie’s. That course had been Sybil’s lifelong dream. Her parents attached one condition to Sybil going; she had to do well at school. Not academically inclined Sybil had slaved over her schoolwork to reach that goal. Sybil had done well and yet she hadn’t gone. Josette couldn’t understand it. Sybil had refused to discuss it, but she had seemed an entirely different person that year. It almost seemed as though the smallest thing would break the person Josette knew as Sybil.
Author:  Alison H [ Sat Dec 16, 2006 11:45 pm ]
Post subject: 
Poor Sybil :( .
Author:  Lesley [ Sat Dec 16, 2006 11:46 pm ]
Post subject: 
Poor Josette - and definitely poor Sybil.

Thanks Fiona
Author:  Fatima [ Sun Dec 17, 2006 7:00 am ]
Post subject: 
I do feel sorry for them both; but I'm consumed with curiosity about it all!
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Mon Dec 18, 2006 9:32 am ]
Post subject: 
Josette sighed and shifted in her seat. The journey home was usually more tiring than the journey to school. Everyone was usually exhausted by the end of term. They wanted to be at home enjoying their holidays, rather than enduring the journey there.
“Penny for them,” said a voice.
Josette looked up to see one of her oldest friends looking at her. Vi Lucy was traveling back with the school proper rather than with the St Millie’s contingent. Although St Millies had broken up two days earlier, Vi had sprained her wrist and the powers that be decreed she should rest it rather than try to travel with it. Vi Lucy had spent a pleasant couple of days at her Aunt Joeys.
“They’re not worth it,” said Josette with a rueful smile.
“You’ve been looking deep in thought since we left the Platz,” observed Vi.
Vi Lucy and Josette Russell had been friends since before they had started school. Their parents were good friends. The two girls had traveled up the school forms together until they had become seniors. Although Vi Lucy’s closest friends was her cousin Barbara and Mary Lou Trelawney and Josette’s closest friends was her own cousin Maeve and Jo Scott, the two had been friends their whole lives and their friendship had seemed to be closer out of school than during it.
“It’s hard to believe this is my last term,” said Josette somberly.
“I know,” nodded Vi, “Can you remember our first day together. My knees were knocking. I had heard so much about it from Julie and Betsy. I think they spent all holidays trying to teach me how to curtsey. They had me convinced I would spend all day curtseying to all the Mistresses and every time I saw the Head.”
Josette burst out laughing. “I was just glad I could go. Mummy and Dad kept saying I should stay home cos they didn’t think I was well enough, but I just wanted to go so badly, they said yes,” remembered Josette.
“I know what that’s like,” said Barbara entering the compartment. She and everyone else had gone to check on everyone else. “I’ll be so glad to not have to do this any more she said collapsing in the seat. Mummy was terrified I would get sick and I was sick of being at home. I hated that everyone got to go but me.”
“I didn’t want to go at all,” laughed Prunella. “I was determined to show everyone.” Jessica looked at Prunella startled. “What do you mean?” She asked.
“Oh I was a pain in the neck,” explained Prunella easily. “My parents had been overseas and I had lived with Granny and then she died and Mum and Dad came home and weren’t too impressed and wrote to the school. I came and spoke the primmest English possible.”
“It was maddening,” said Vi with a grin, “you managed to keep it up too until you and Len had that argument. I think it was the first time anyone had seen Len in a temper.” “Poor Len,” said Prunella reflectively. “She became my closest friend after that.”
“I didn’t want to come either,” said Jessica thoughtfully, “I was so determined to be so bad that the school would get rid of me. I just wanted to be home. Mary Lou helped,” she added going red.
Vi gave her a quick look. “Oh well,” she said soothingly, “it all worked out alright in the end. So, what’s everyone’s plans these holidays?” She asked changing the topic. “Relax and take it easy,” said Barbara with a yawn. “This has been such a full year with exams and being a prefect and all.”
“Lazy object,” said Vi scathingly. “You won’t be able to keep that up for long.” “Having holidays is good for the soul,” Barbara retorted.
Prunella and Jessica started laughing, “I feel sorry for your Mothers if this is the way you two carry on,” said Prunella good humourdly.
“Oh Mummy and Auntie J are used to it,” said Barbara easily, “and anyway it’s about time Vi had more respect for her elders.”
“Shouldn’t it be the other was round?” asked Jessica confused. “Isn’t Vi older?”
Vi shook her head, “No Babs is older by a few months.”
“Viola’s right,” began Barbara tantalizingly.
“Barbara Chester!” exclaimed Vi, “I can’t believe your calling me that. The only time I get called that is if I’m in trouble and I must admit I always shivered in my shoes when the Head used that name.”
The others laughed while Barbara said placidly, “well if you insist on Babs, I’ll insist on Viola.”
Vi pulled a face at Barbara.
“Well at least it’s better than Barbie,” remarked Jessica.
“I can’t believe you would come up with such a horrible name,” proclaimed Barbara disgusted, while the others all started laughing at the look on her face.
“That reminds me of Prunella insisting on calling us by our full names,” said Josette with a sideways look at the said Prunella.
Prunella started laughing, “I had such a hard time keeping a straight face through all of that. If only you people could have seen a mirror at the time,” she said cheerfully. “Poor Len, She loathed being called Helena and I did torment her over that.”
“That was nothing on the look on mine and Jo’s face when we realized that we had the same names,” remembered Josette.
“Is she really leaving?” asked Barbara more soberly.
Josette nodded. “Her Mother wants her to come home and it’s not like she is particularly academic though she does work hard,” explained Josette.
“It’s still hard lines,” persisted Barbara. “She would have been slated for Head Girl next term. I can’t imagine anyone else who is really slated for it the same way, though I do think Maeve will make a good fist of it.”
“True,” said Josette lost in her own thoughts. The girls exchanged quick looks which Josette noticed. “I know I’m being silly,” she sighed, “but I do hate the thought of leaving this term and not even coming back for Millie’s. It always seemed like such fun and Australia seems so far away. Six weeks on a boat before we even get there. I know it’s only for a year but I just don’t want to go.”
The girls all exchanged looks again but this time telegraphing the thought, ‘What shall we say.’
“I know,” said Vi gently at last. “It’s hard lines on you Josette. I just wish I knew what to say to make you feel better about the whole thing.”
The girls sat in silence for awhile. Josette seemed to visibly relax. “Thanks she said at last. I guess I just have to make the best of it.”
Author:  Alison H [ Mon Dec 18, 2006 10:00 am ]
Post subject: 
Poor Josette. I never liked that bit of the story, and it wasn't even in character for Madge to drag her off like that when she didn't want to go :( .

Are we going to see a different side to things here, though?
Author:  leahbelle [ Mon Dec 18, 2006 10:10 am ]
Post subject: 
It was selfish of Madge and completely out of character for her, wasn't it?

Thanks, Fiona.
Author:  Fatima [ Mon Dec 18, 2006 12:57 pm ]
Post subject: 
Poor Josette. But she's right, she must make the best of it if she has to go.
Author:  Lesley [ Mon Dec 18, 2006 8:19 pm ]
Post subject: 
Lovely conversation between them all there.

Thanks Fiona.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Fri Dec 29, 2006 4:40 pm ]
Post subject: 
The following was inspired by a character in EBD's book Lorna at Wynyards and I have a mini me Madge plot bunny sitting on my computer asking for a sympathetic storyline. So this is it

Madge was pacing restlessly in the Drawing Room. She was unable to sit still. Josette and Ailie were returning that day from boarding school. She sighed, she was dreading the conversation she needed to have with Josette. Jem had offered to take Ailie, Kevin and Kester off for a jaunt somewhere. Ailie was usually full of boundless energy and would be up for it despite the long journey. Sybil was in London visiting her brother David and doing some shopping and getting ready for their holiday on Guernsey. Madge was relieved. Rix’s idea about all the older cousins going away for a holiday somewhere had been received with enthusiasm by all those invited to go and Rix with extraordinary tact had somehow managed to coax Sybil into joining them. Madge sighed again and wished as she had wished a thousand times that year that she could turn back time and change things.
It had all began two years previously when Jem had hired a young doctor by the name of Matthew Lester. He had been young and charming and fitted in easily at the San. Sybil having recently finished at school was debating whether or not she would go straight onto her course at Kensington School of Art Needlework or go to St Millie’s. She had struck up a close friendship with Matthew or Matt as he was called and Matt had suggested she go to St Millie’s for the year pointing out that she could do her course a year later and be able to do both. Sybil had agreed readily. Madge sighed; Sybil had been completely enamored with Matt and Madge could see why. He had been charming and attentive, not just with Sybil but with the whole family. He had taken Sybil to meet his Great Aunt who lived in the village an elderly lady, slightly forgetful and slightly deaf. The only family member he had. He had asked permission to write to Sybil at school and Sybil had agreed. Looking back Madge was relieved for Sybil’s sake that Josette, Ailie and the twins had seemed oblivious to what was happening though Ailie had been heard to remark that she didn’t like Matt, though when asked, she couldn’t explain. Sybil had been extremely happy for one year and in the summer between finishing at St Millie’s and starting at her Art Needlework School, Sybil had been having lunch with David and had by sheer chance bumped into Matt with his wife of three years. Fortunately Sybil had remained outwardly calm but the moment David had been able to get her away she had collapsed, devastated by Matt’s betrayal.
Author:  leahbelle [ Fri Dec 29, 2006 4:50 pm ]
Post subject: 
Oh, poor Sybil.
Author:  Fatima [ Fri Dec 29, 2006 5:31 pm ]
Post subject: 
Poor Sybil, what an awful shock for her.
Author:  Alison H [ Fri Dec 29, 2006 5:51 pm ]
Post subject: 
Poor Sybil!
Author:  kimothy [ Fri Dec 29, 2006 6:05 pm ]
Post subject: 
poor sybil
Author:  LizB [ Sun Dec 31, 2006 1:38 pm ]
Post subject: 
*pokes Matt with rusty things*
Author:  Alice [ Mon Jan 08, 2007 4:08 pm ]
Post subject: 
I've just found this and read it all the way through. Thanks Fiona.
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