A New Experience For Miss Wilson
The CBB -> Ste Therese's House
#1: A New Experience For Miss Wilson Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Thu Aug 25, 2005 6:17 pm

Hi, I am new here, I hope you don't mind me posting a little thing I have been thinking about lately.


Miss Wilson, Head of St. Mildred's, the Chalet School finishing branch, sat in her office, busy marking the girls' write-ups of an experiment they had conducted in the previous lesson. Some of the girls were very scientifically minded and they worked to an exceptionally high standard, grasping exactly what she had been demonstrating to them over the last term. She finished checking Annie Blake's book, which was impeccably neat and almost perfect then she closed the book. A noise from outside the school caught her attention at that moment, a horrible screeching of brakes and then a dreadful sound like the crash of something metal into something unmovable. Like a wall.
Miss Wilson threw the book onto the pile, snatched her coat from the back of the door, where it was hanging, and raced out of her office. A dreadful noise like that could only mean an accident, and it sounded as though it was just outside St. Mildred's. Goodness knows the road was slippery enough, what with the start of the thaw being followed by a sudden drop in temperature again, freezing the water on the road and making driving hazardous in the extreme.
"Did you hear that?" she demanded of Gill Culver, her secretary, as she raced through the outer office.
"Yes," Gill said, getting to her feet and following the Head out of the office and down the corridor to the front door.
Moving as quickly as the slippery front path would allow them to, Miss Wilson and Gill went out into the road. To their horror they saw that a car had driven into the wall surrounding the chalet.

Last edited by Fatima on Sun Sep 18, 2005 12:57 pm; edited 11 times in total

 

#2:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Thu Aug 25, 2005 6:20 pm

Hi Fatima and welcome. This sounds interesting, and I'l be interested to see how it develops. Thanks

 

#3:  Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria PostPosted: Thu Aug 25, 2005 7:35 pm

Hi welcome ,we always love new drabblers here.
Why don't you go and introduce yourself .

 

#4:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Thu Aug 25, 2005 7:43 pm

Welcome, Fatima! It's great to have you on the board! I hope you enjoy posting here. I've really enjoyed reading the start of the drabble. I hope everyone will be ok.

 

#5:  Author: Kim, Location: Tipperary, Ireland PostPosted: Thu Aug 25, 2005 8:15 pm

Hi and welcome Fatima. Interesting start - looking forward to seeing how it turns out.

 

#6:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Aug 25, 2005 8:32 pm

Thanks Fatima, and welcome to the CBB! Very Happy

 

#7:  Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England PostPosted: Thu Aug 25, 2005 9:12 pm

This is an exciting and dramatic start! Looking forward to more!

Welcome to the CBB, Fatima - come back and say hi properly soon! Very Happy

 

#8:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Aug 25, 2005 10:54 pm

who was in the car?

was it an accident or on purpose?

Looking forward to more Fatima - and please do tell us more about yourself if you would like to Smile

Liz

 

#9:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Fri Aug 26, 2005 4:23 am

Thank you for the nice comments. Here is the next bit!


"Call the police and the san," Miss Wilson commanded. "I'll see what I can do."
Without waiting to see if her secretary had obeyed, Miss Wilson went over to the car and looked through the window. The driver of the car was slumped over the steering wheel, blood running over his face. He had evidently hit his head, but when Miss Wilson carefully tried the door handle, she found that it would not open. Leaving that side of the vehicle, she went round the back and discovered that the passenger of the car was opening the door and getting out.
"Are you hurt?" she asked him.
"I don't think so," he responded, standing straight. "My nephew looks injured, so I think we should call an ambulance."
"My secretary has gone to do that," Miss Wilson reassured him. "I tried to open the door that side, but it's stuck, or locked from the inside. Maybe we shouldn't move him until the ambulance gets here."
"He wasn’t even driving fast," the passenger told Miss Wilson. "We skidded into the wall. We were on our way to the san."
Miss Wilson looked at the man. He was tall and grey haired, with a moustache and brown eyes. He had a very military bearing, and was still slim, although obviously past middle age. "I'm sure the ambulance will be here soon," she said. "Would you like to sit down? You can go into the school and wait, you will be much warmer."
"I can't leave my nephew," he replied, starting to walk carefully round the car to the driver's side. He tried the door, but it still would not open. Going to the front of the car, he examined the damage, noticing the way the bonnet had crumpled and realizing how lucky he had been to get out uninjured.

 

#10:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Aug 26, 2005 7:13 am

Thanks Fatima

Liz

 

#11:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Aug 26, 2005 8:00 am

Ho hum - a new experience.....do I detect the whiff of romance about to start? Shocked

Welcome, Fatima, and thanks!

 

#12:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Fri Aug 26, 2005 8:09 am

This sounds interesting. I wouldnt want to have to deal with that though. Hope the nephew is alright. They were going to the San in the first place, interesting,

Thanks Fatima

 

#13:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Aug 26, 2005 9:01 am

Oh I detect romance too! Thanks Fatima, this looks really good Very Happy

 

#14:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Aug 26, 2005 9:45 am

Hmmm. Interesting! Thank you Fatima.

 

#15:  Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Fri Aug 26, 2005 10:07 am

Oo, this looks intriguing!

More please, Fatima!

I'm off to Profiles to see if you've introduced yourself yet...

 

#16:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Aug 26, 2005 11:38 am

Welcome to the board, Fatima. A shiny new drabble! That's a wonderful way to introduce yourself.

 

#17:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Fri Aug 26, 2005 2:36 pm

I hope the man's nephew will be ok. Thanks, Fatima.

 

#18:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Aug 26, 2005 7:20 pm

Welcome, Fatima!

And thankyou Smile

I never even thought of romance till Mary and Mia said it - but now I think they may be right! Hope we are enlightened soon! Very Happy

 

#19:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Sat Aug 27, 2005 10:16 am

Here we are, some more!

At that moment Gill Culver reappeared, carrying a couple of blankets. "I didn't know if we would need these," she said. "What can I do to help? The ambulance should be here soon, it was quiet at the san when I called."
Miss Wilson took a blanket and offered it to the passenger of the car. "It's very cold," she told him. "You have had a shock and you should keep warm."
"Thank you," he said, taking the blanket and putting it around his shoulders. "I'm William Benson. My nephew and I have just moved up here, to the Platz."
"I'm Helena Wilson, head of the school here – St. Mildred's. And here’s the ambulance," she finished, hearing the sirens approaching.
The ambulance cautiously made its way towards the scene of the crash, and then one of the doctors from the San jumped out. The police were following the ambulance, and with quick efficiency they freed the trapped driver, put him carefully onto a stretcher and loaded it into the ambulance. William Benson quickly shook hands with his rescuers, and got into the ambulance with his nephew. The doors closed and they drove off.
Miss Wilson tidily closed the car doors, and then she noticed a brief case in the snow beside the passenger's door. William Benson had taken it out of the car when he had got out, but forgotten it in his worry about his nephew. Knowing that someone from the San would be sure to visit St. Mildred's sooner rather than later, she picked it up and took it into the school.

 

#20:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Sat Aug 27, 2005 10:30 am

Most interesting, so there will be a reason for Nell to meet up with William as well then. And he is going to be staying on the Platz with his nephew - *wonders if Mary and co are right in their ideas*

 

#21:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sat Aug 27, 2005 10:34 am

Hmmm, intriguing. Is it William or the nephew who was going to the San originally? Why? What's in the briefcase? Confused Laughing

Thanks Fatima, this is excellent Very Happy

 

#22:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Sat Aug 27, 2005 11:03 am

Very interesting! Thank you Fatima.

 

#23:  Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex PostPosted: Sat Aug 27, 2005 11:36 am

Thank you Fatima! Very Intruiging!! Very Happy Welcome to the board!

 

#24:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Sat Aug 27, 2005 11:41 am

Let's just hope Nell is there when William comes back to collect the briefcase!

 

#25:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Aug 27, 2005 1:41 pm

Surely you're going to put us out of our misery, Fatima. We're all longing to know.

 

#26:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Aug 27, 2005 11:17 pm

*looks suspiciously at briefcase*

Thanks Fatima

Liz

 

#27:  Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Sun Aug 28, 2005 6:33 am

I'll do the same as Liz B and
Quote:
*looks suspiciously at briefcase*

 

#28:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Aug 28, 2005 6:44 am

Me too. Is it romance ....or something else - espionage?

Thanks Fatima.

 

#29:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Aug 28, 2005 11:42 am

LizB wrote:
*looks suspiciously at briefcase*


*joins in*

Thanks Fatima. Very Happy

 

#30:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sun Aug 28, 2005 12:40 pm

Wants to know if Bill falls in love.

 

#31:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sun Aug 28, 2005 3:33 pm

*tentativley asks for a little more*

This is great Fatima, please do keep going

 

#32:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Mon Aug 29, 2005 4:02 pm

Hi Fatima, welcome!

Right, formalities out of way, now I can start chanting for more...! Very Happy

 

#33:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Tue Aug 30, 2005 3:43 pm

Sorry to have taken so long to put up the next bit - I just got 'Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince', so I had to read it! Now I've finished, so I can give my full attention to the Chalet School once again!


The following afternoon, being Saturday, Miss Wilson went to Freudesheim for 'English tea' with her old friend, Jo Maynard. Jo, a former pupil of the Chalet School, though not of the more newly founded finishing branch, lived very near Welsen, and enjoyed having her friends visit her for tea in front of her open fire, and gossip. On that Saturday, she had invited Miss Wilson, Miss Annersley, and Rosalie Dene, the latter's secretary. The four women were old friends, having been associated with the school since its earliest days. As usual, Jo's faithful servant, Anna, had provided a delicious meal, and there was always plenty of school news to discuss.
Finally, talk turned to the accident that had occurred outside St. Mildred's the previous day. Jo's husband, Jack, was a doctor at the San, and he had filled his wife in with the details. "Major Benson was very lucky to be unhurt," she told them. "His nephew is still unconscious, and he has a fractured skull. Jack doesn't think it will be serious, but he will be in the San for a few weeks."
"How is his mother?" Miss Annersley inquired. Jane Chapman had arrived at the san a few days previously, having been diagnosed with tuberculosis.
"She is weak and tired, which is to be expected after the trip here, but Jack has high hopes of pulling her back to good health," Jo said. "She got here in time, unlike so many of our patients. She won't be able to live in England again, but she should be able to live well in the mountains here for many years."
"That is good news," said Rosalie. "She's such a sweet woman. And her sons are devoted to her."
"They haven't told her about James' accident." Jo picked up the huge teapot. "Another cup, Nell? Hilda? They don't want to worry her just yet. Andrew and Major Benson have told her that James has caught a cold and so has to be kept away until he is recovered!"
Jo poured them all third cups of her famous English tea.
"Poor woman, she came to the San because she is ill, and then her son has an accident and ends up in the San as well," Rosalie said thoughtfully.
"Major Bradley has taken the chalet at the other end of the Platz," added Jo, offering Nell another cream cake. "You know, the Mirlhof, where the Andersons had been living."
Miss Wilson remembered the chalet, a very picturesque little place not far from the finishing branch of the Chalet School. The Andersons had lived there for almost a year, until their daughter had recovered her health and was well enough to return to their home in Wales once more. She hoped that Major Benson would eventually leave the chalet after such a happy conclusion to his stay in Switzerland.
Talk then turned to other topics, most notably the progress Jo's triplet daughters were making as they entered their third year at university.

 

#34:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Tue Aug 30, 2005 3:54 pm

Ooooh looks most interesting. So the visit to the san was to see the nephew's Mum. And it does seem that Mary and co might well have been right with thoughts of romance. I mean it's all very well saying that the others may well be hoping that things go well with Jane, and you could argue that with Nell's having met Major Benson that would make a difference, but still that might not account for everything.

Thanks Fatima

 

#35:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Tue Aug 30, 2005 4:02 pm

Am I right in assuming that Major Benson is no relation to Stacie? I just wanted to check. Thanks, Fatima.

 

#36:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Aug 30, 2005 4:10 pm

Thanks Fatima, this looks really good Very Happy

 

#37:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Tue Aug 30, 2005 5:09 pm

I didn't think about him being related to anyone, so no, I don't think he's a relative of Stacie. He began as Major Bradley, but I changed it when I came across the drabble called Jo Bradley. My summer hols are over now, and I am back at school, so writing time has been cut drastically. I shall do my best to keep this going, though.

 

#38:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Aug 30, 2005 5:27 pm

Thanks Fatima

Looking forward to more when time allows Smile

Liz

 

#39:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Aug 30, 2005 7:19 pm

Interesting! Thanks Fatima.

 

#40:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Tue Aug 30, 2005 7:24 pm

Thanks for filling in some of the background, Fatima.

Very interesting - and sad for the Bensons. Crying or Very sad

Shall await *developments* patiently.

 

#41:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Aug 31, 2005 10:39 am

Thanks fatima Very Happy

 

#42:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Wed Aug 31, 2005 2:22 pm

Thanks, Fatima!

Also patiently awaiting developments!

 

#43:  Author: Lucy, Location: Leeds PostPosted: Wed Aug 31, 2005 7:00 pm

Just caught up with this Fatima - it's really good. I'll look forward to seeing how it develops Very Happy

 

#44:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 3:17 am

I'm trying to patiently await developments but it's very difficult.

I'm enjoying this Fatima.

 

#45:  Author: Róisín, Location: Galway, Eire PostPosted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 7:25 am

Fatima, this is great, you're a very good writer. I really like the first (maybe it was the second though) scene where Miss Wilson is speaking to the Major and he's a little dismissive of her as he walks around the car, concerned for his nephew. Your characters are v. alive. Smile

Please write more!
Please tell us what's in the suitcase!
Please arrange another meeting between Bill and the Major!

*offers squidgy chocolate brownies as bribe*

 

#46:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 3:30 pm

Gratefully accepts anything vaguely chocolatey on offer, and continues story!

On Monday morning, Miss Wilson had three classes to teach, a double science lesson followed by geography. She still enjoyed teaching both subjects, especially to the girls at St. Mildred's. They had come through their school years, studied hard and now took their favourite subjects. The girls she taught had a genuine interest in her subjects and inspired her to teach to ever higher standards. In return, her teaching inspired them to work harder and to attain excellent results in the exams for which they were entered.
By lunchtime, Miss Wilson had gathered a formidable pile of marking, so she decided to take advantage of her free afternoon and spend it closeted in her office, checking the girls' books. Having come fresh from her midday meal, she put her coffee cup beside her and began to read the essays written by her students about glacial environments.
Gill Culver knocked at the door at just after three o'clock, to announce a visitor. "Major Benson is here, Miss Wilson,' she said. "Shall I send him in?"
Miss Wilson looked up from her work, for a moment unable to remember who Major Benson was. "Yes, Gill, and bring a fresh pot of coffee, would you, please," she agreed, standing up and coming round her desk.
Major Benson entered the room and came over to shake Miss Wilson's hand. She noticed that he had a very firm handshake, something that she always respected. Nothing could be worse than extending one's hand and finding it held by something resembling nothing more than a wet fish.
"Good afternoon," Major Benson said. "I have just come by to thank you for all you did for us on Friday. It was good of you."
"Not at all," Miss Wilson responded. "Please have a seat," she added, indicating the armchairs at the opposite end of her office. As he sat down, she went behind her desk and retrieved his briefcase, then she went over and returned it to him. "I found it beside the car after the ambulance had left," she informed him.
"Thank you very much," he replied. "I have been wondering where I left it. I called the police this morning to see if they had found it in the car, but of course they had not."

 

#47:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 4:44 pm

Thanks Fatima

Still wondering about that briefcase, although he didn't seem hugely concerned about it.

Liz

 

#48:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 6:37 pm

Hmmm, so did the good Major just come to say thank you then?

Thanks Fatima.

 

#49:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 8:02 pm

Thanks fatime, I have just caught up with this after the holiday and it is very intreguing.

 

#50:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Thu Sep 01, 2005 11:19 pm

Thanks, Fatima. It's a pity Nell has forgotten Major Benson's name but at least he has come to see her.

 

#51:  Author: Róisín, Location: Galway, Eire PostPosted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 7:35 pm

*brings great platefuls of assorted chocolate items to the drabble*

I am loving this. I think they are being very formal with each other, but this will dissolve soon, yes?

More please!

 

#52:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Sep 02, 2005 7:44 pm

Thanks Fatima, still *maintaining my own thoughts* on where you are going with this! Wink

 

#53:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Sat Sep 03, 2005 6:14 am

At that moment a knock at the door heralded the return of Gill, with a pot of steaming coffee and two cups. She set the tray on the table in front of the Head and withdrew.
"Milk and sugar?" Miss Wilson asked, reaching for the little milk jug.
"Thank you." Major Benson watched as she poured the coffee, and took the cup that she offered him. "How long have you worked here?" he asked.
"I came to Switzerland when this branch of the school was opened," she answered. "That was ten years ago, now. Before that, I worked in the other branch of the school, in England."
"Whatever made you come out here?" he inquired, "if you don't mind me asking, that is?"
"Not at all. I had worked in Austria for several years before the war, and been so happy there. I thought Switzerland would be just as much fun."
"I'm here with my sister," the Major said, sounding as if he wanted to talk to someone. "She's in the san. We – my nephews and I – have taken a chalet here. The doctors think we will need to stay for some months, but they hope she will make a good recovery."
"How is your nephew?" Nell asked, wondering why it had taken her so long to make that polite enquiry.
"He regained consciousness last night. He has a fractured skull, but I am told it is nothing to worry about. Jane would worry, though, so we have yet to tell her. Jane is my sister," he added, by way of explanation.
"Yes, I can imagine she would be concerned." Miss Wilson drained her cup and set it down on the tray.
"I hope I am not disturbing you too much," Major Benson said. "You must be busy running a school like this."
"Oh, I am not doing anything that cannot wait a while," Miss Wilson reassured him.
"I have only been out here for a few days, but it is going to be a lonely stay. My nephew Andrew will be going back to England in another week and James will be in the San with Jane. It is nice to be able to talk English to someone. My German is poor, and besides, I don't have near neighbours at the Mirlhof. That is the chalet I have taken."
"I quite understand," she assured him. "I must introduce you to some of the people up here. Jack and Jo Maynard would be the best contacts for you, they know everyone!"
"Dr. Maynard? I have met him."
"More coffee?" she asked as he replaced his cup on the tray. "Yes, he and his wife have lived here for years, too, and their door is always open."
"No, I won't keep you any longer," he said, standing up. "Thank you for your hospitality. Maybe I could return the favour – when we arrived we spent the first couple of nights at the Hotel Sorenberg, they have an excellent restaurant. Perhaps you would join me for dinner there one evening, if you are free, that is?"

 

#54:  Author: Róisín, Location: Galway, Eire PostPosted: Sat Sep 03, 2005 7:04 am

I found the new update first! *does jig*

Fabulosoh - they're going on a date Very Happy

 

#55:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Sep 03, 2005 7:10 am

Thanks Fatima

Am I being overly suspicious or was he not in a hurry to go until the Maynards were mentioned?

Dinner in return for coffee is an excellent exchange Very Happy Will she go?

Liz

 

#56:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Sep 03, 2005 8:08 am

Hmmm, wonder if Nell sees it yet - I'm sure most of her visitors don't immediately invite her to dinner. Laughing

Thanks Fatima.

 

#57:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sat Sep 03, 2005 8:28 am

Nell is getting flustered - not even asking how the nephew is! Wink

What will Hilda say to all this? Laughing

Thanks, Fatima.

 

#58:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Sep 03, 2005 8:31 am

MaryR wrote:
Nell is getting flustered - not even asking how the nephew is! Wink

What will Hilda say to all this? Laughing

Thanks, Fatima.


Hilda sighed, "Damn, she got there first! Best looking man there's been since Jack started developing a paunch and halitosis!"

Oh sorry, wrong drabble - thought this was Intrigue!

 

#59:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sat Sep 03, 2005 8:34 am

Lesley, you loon! Have you not heard of rhetorical questions? Shocked

Sorry we (or rather *she-who-must-be*) hi-jacked your drabble, Fatima! Embarassed

 

#60:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Sat Sep 03, 2005 9:07 am

Laughing You pair! Thanks Fatima that was great. OH and Mary, I'm sure there is no need to be embarrassed!

 

#61:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Sat Sep 03, 2005 11:06 am

Thanks, Fatima. I'm glad Major Benson has asked Nell out on a date.

 

#62:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Sat Sep 03, 2005 5:12 pm

Miss Wilson surprised herself by the speed of her answer. "Yes, that would be lovely. Thank you."
Major Benson smiled. "Excellent," he said cheerfully. "Which evening would be best for you? I have no plans for this week."
"I am on duty tomorrow," she remembered, "but have the evening free on Wednesday."
"Then shall we say eight o'clock? My hire car should be replaced by then, so I can come and pick you up."
Miss Wilson smiled back. "Yes, that would be just fine. Thank you, Major Benson."
"No, thank you, Miss Wilson." He held out his hand and shook hers firmly again, then he bent to retrieve his briefcase. "I shall see you on Wednesday. Good bye."
Miss Wilson watched him leave then returned to her desk and the pile of corrections awaiting her. She took the next exercise book from the heap and opened it, but instead of seeing the essay, she found herself thinking back over the past half hour. Major Benson had been a bit of an enigma. On the one hand, he had a very military bearing, and had seemed to be a very self sufficient man, yet for a moment he had sounded very lonely and in need of companionship. He had made brief reference to his sister and nephews, and sounded very fond of them, yet had made no mention of closer family, a wife or children. He was good looking, and polite, and Nell realized that she was looking forward to meeting him for dinner. She tried chiding herself for her excitement, telling herself that he was starting a new life on the Platz, as he waited for his sister to get better, and that he was just meeting new people. She should not read anything more than this into his invitation, and she should definitely pull herself together and stop acting like a schoolgirl! She was going to dinner with him that was all. It was not the start of anything more than friendship.
Despite her attempts at self control, Miss Wilson did not mark many of the girls' books that afternoon. She was feeling restless, so she went for a walk around the school to see what was going on. The girls were at their lessons, all working hard. The members of staff that were free at the time were in the staffroom, and they cordially invited her to afternoon tea with them, but she declined and continued her restless prowl around the building. Finally, she decided that she had to get her work done, so she returned to her office, dispatched Gill for more coffee and sat resolutely at her desk once more.

 

#63:  Author: Róisín, Location: Galway, Eire PostPosted: Sat Sep 03, 2005 5:54 pm

Excellent Fatima, thank you. Very Happy

 

#64:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Sep 03, 2005 6:31 pm

Yes, Nell seems smitten.

Thanks Fatima.

 

#65:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Sat Sep 03, 2005 7:41 pm

Thanks, Fatima. I'm really enjoying this drabble so far.

 

#66:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sun Sep 04, 2005 11:24 am

Ooh, someone for Nell!

 

#67:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 3:01 am

Nell has a date! Nell has a date!

*bounces excitedly*

more of this when you can Fatima

 

#68:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 7:30 am

Glad to see that for once I guessed right! Embarassed

To see Nell so off-guard......

Thanks, Fatima.

 

#69:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 9:52 am

Oooh I love a good romance. Thanks Fatima

 

#70:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 12:14 pm

*hopes Wednesday evening comes soon*

Thanks Fatima

Liz

 

#71:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 4:15 pm

Thank you for all the positive feedback on this; here is the next installment.

On Wednesday Miss Wilson had a busy day of teaching and of this she was very glad, as it kept her occupied. She had spent Tuesday worrying about what she should wear when she went out to dinner with Major Benson, and then had told herself, once more, that she was behaving more like a teenager than a mature, sensible woman. Miss Annersley had come to visit on Tuesday, and Nell had swung between a desire to confide in her friend, and the feeling that she would only be setting herself up for a lecture on propriety if she did. In the end, she managed to avoid all mention of her plans for Wednesday evening, and was actually relieved when her friend left.
Once she had finished her last lesson of the day, Miss Wilson escaped to her office to catch up on the post from that morning. Gill Culver appeared, asking if she would like her evening meal in the office, as she often did on a Wednesday, but Nell declined. She dictated a few letters to her secretary, and added some more names to the rapidly filling role of pupils for the next year, then glanced at the clock once more.
It was almost six. "Thank you, Gill," Nell said. "I think that is enough for now. I will be going out later, so you can type those up and finish."
"Ok," said Gill informally, rather taken aback by Nell's plans to go out. Miss Wilson seldom went out in the evening in the winter, and almost never in the middle of the week. However, the Head had not enlightened her further, so she could not really ask for more information. She followed the Head from the room, and watched her retreating back thoughtfully.
Miss Wilson headed up to her suite, and stood in front of the wardrobe, looking thoughtfully at her clothes. The wardrobe seemed to contain plenty of garments appropriate for a middle-aged Head Mistress, but very few things suitable for a lady going out for the evening with a gentleman. Not, Nell reflected, that she really knew what would constitute 'suitable' for such an event in this day and age. It had been a great many years, more than she cared to remember, since she had known about outfits suitable for dining in hotels with men. Still undecided, she went into the bathroom and ran a bath. Not a cold one, but a lovely warm one, with bubble bath in. She decided that she would be able to think better in the bath – after all, hadn't bathing helped Archimedes with his thoughts?
Ten minutes later, relaxing in her bath, Miss Wilson reached a decision. She allowed herself to soak a little longer, then got out, dried and put on her new tweed skirt and a dark green twin set. After all, Major Benson was fully aware of her position as Head Mistress of St. Mildred's, so she should dress the part. Then, if he was just being friendly, she would have behaved respectably. Just because a man had asked her to dinner did not mean that he wanted to marry her!
She piled up her hair, securing it with the usual handful of hairpins, sprayed herself with perfume and glanced at the clock for the hundredth time since getting out of the bath. Five to eight. Time to go. Suddenly she felt very nervous. She picked up her handbag, and went out of her suite and back to her office. Gill had finished for the evening, and so she was able to stand at the window of her secretary's office, from where she could see the front path. At exactly eight o'clock she watched Major Benson walk up the path and knock on the door. Before the maids could answer the knock, Miss Wilson left the office and went out to meet him.

 

#72:  Author: Róisín, Location: Galway, Eire PostPosted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 4:56 pm

Yay! Another update and again, I'm the first to see it! *dances usual jig*

Thanks Fatima, this is lovely. I think Bill's outfit sounds very elegant and becoming and not at all staid or headmistressy. I hope her handbag was of the brown leather variety Wink

Hopefully her hair will get let down at some point during the evening though! Shocked (Metaphorically of course ... tut tut) Laughing

 

#73:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 5:06 pm

Lovely - you've captured the pre-date nerves wonderfully

Thanks Fatima

Liz

 

#74:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 5:09 pm

Love the shy-ness which stops her from saying anythign to Hilda. Poor Nell, having Gill Culver notice what she is doing simply because it's unusual. I hope she enjoys her night out

 

#75:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 6:09 pm

aww thank you - I love her shyness about this dinner, it's so natural!

Lovely update, Fatima

 

#76:  Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex PostPosted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 6:16 pm

Thank you Fatima! YAY for Nell going on a date!
Also hoping she can let her hair down! Laughing

 

#77:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 6:37 pm

Fatima wrote:
Then, if he was just being friendly, she would have behaved respectably. Just because a man had asked her to dinner did not mean that he wanted to marry her!


It sounds to me as though she wants it to be more! Shocked Shocked

And she daren't tell Hilda?? Shocked She must have it bad!

Thanks, Fatima.

(Will someone please tell me why I can never get the quote box to work!!)

ETA: Have put quotes in for you, Mary. To quote, click the 'Quote' button in the right-hand-side of the person's post. Or, you can highlight the text you want to quote, copy and paste it into the reply box, and put [(quote)][(/quote)] either side. (Removing the () tags). - Gem

 

#78:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 6:41 pm

Agrees - she doesn't want to tell even her closest friend? Hope she's not going to be disappointed.

 

#79:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Mon Sep 05, 2005 7:10 pm

Thanks, Fatima. I wonder where Major Benson is going to take her?

 

#80:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 1:25 am

Oh, all those pre-date nerves. And they get worse as you get older....I hope she has a lovely time.

 

#81:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 6:59 pm

I had planned to spend this evening writing more, but discovered the fabulous drabble, Rachel Tests The Chalet School. It is so brilliantly written and fascinating that I couldn't stop reading it (and have only got half way through the first part of it, so will be busy for ages yet). I have some more of this stored on the computer, but want to add to it; I don't think Rachel will let me do that for a while.

Major Benson smiled at her as she appeared on the doorstep. "Good evening," he said, offering her his arm as the path was still slippery. "I have a new car!"
Miss Wilson laughed. "It is very nice," she said, sounding insincere even to her own ears.
The Major laughed as well. "All right, that was a silly remark." He held the door open for her and closed it once she was settled in the passenger seat.
They drove off, the Major driving slowly and carefully, and reached the Hotel Sorenberg a little after eight thirty. Nell had been there a couple of times before, usually with Hilda Annersley when they were celebrating something special, a birthday or an anniversary. They had enjoyed a splendid Christmas lunch there only three months earlier, along with Matron Lloyd and Mlle de Lachenais from the Chalet School. The four ladies had been friends for so many years and they enjoyed one another's company. The meal had been, outwardly at least, a very genteel affair, but they had laughed a lot and conversation had been far ranging!
As the winter season was nearing an end, and the summer season had not yet begun, the hotel was very quiet. The Major had reserved a table in a quiet corner of the room, and the waiter brought them both the menu then withdrew.

 

#82:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 7:27 pm

Rachel is fantastic - we don't mind waiting while you read it as long as you promise we can have some more soon!

Now hopefully Miss Wilson and Major Benson can have a nice little chat which the plot bunny will tell you ALLLLLLLL about.

 

#83:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 7:31 pm

Looks most interesting, thanks Fatima.

Oh and, thanks for the complament as well. If you want I could send you the document - it is long, but it would save you going through the yibble etc. Let me know!

 

#84:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 10:42 pm

*feeling hungry*

*wonders what's on the menu*

Thanks Fatima

Liz

 

#85:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Tue Sep 06, 2005 10:44 pm

Thanks, Fatima. The hotel sounds lovely and not too full.

 

#86:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 5:41 am

Here is the next bit; I am so busy at the moment, I can't get my act together and write more. The infamous 'bunnies' are quiet too!
Miss Wilson read through the menu quickly and decided what she wanted to eat then she glanced across at her companion. He was frowning over the menu, and she recalled what he had said about not speaking German very well. "I can recommend the geschnetzeltes mit spaetzle," she told him helpfully. "It's beef with mushrooms and shallots in a creamy white wine sauce."
"That sounds perfect," he told her. "I shall have that." He called the waiter back over and haltingly ordered their meal, and some wine to go with it. Once the waiter had gone, he sat back in his seat and surveyed his companion across the table. "I went to Interlaken today and bought myself some books so I can learn German properly," he informed her. "I am going to be here for some time, so I might as well fill that time profitably."
"Your German isn't so bad," she told him. "And you will find it improving in leaps and bounds if you use it. But I am sure you realize that," she tailed off, suddenly realizing that she was not addressing the new girls at the beginning of term. "Which part of England are you from?"
"London," he answered. "Jane lived in Brighton and I have spent a lot of time there with her since her husband passed away."
"Oh, I am sorry about that."
"He had cancer for many years, so his death was a release for him," Major Benson explained. "Jane cared for him at home and I wonder if that was what contributed to her illness. She worked far too hard for far too long. Not that she would have had it any other way," he added. "I am sorry to bore you with stories of my family."
"You aren't boring me, Major," she assured him. "Have you any news of your sister or of James today?"
"Not Major, my name is William," he told her. "You are the first friend I have made here in Switzerland. I don't like my friends being too formal. Yes, I went to visit them both today. James is feeling very sorry for himself; he has a perpetual headache, so he cannot concentrate very well. Jane is looking much brighter, and they told her about James today. She took it very well, even though she was not allowed to visit him."
"That is good news," Nell said warmly.
At that point, the waiter arrived with the wine that the Major had ordered, and he poured it into their glasses for them. Major Benson lifted his glass and held it towards Miss Wilson. "To a very pleasant evening," he said.
Miss Wilson tapped her glass against his. "A very pleasant evening," she echoed and took a sip of the wine.
"What else should I know about the Gornetz Platz?" Major Benson inquired. "My other nephew, Andrew, is eager to go skiing. Where should he go? Is there somewhere nearby?"
Miss Wilson began to talk about the skiing undertaken by the girls of St. Mildred's, explaining where they skied and then telling him about some more difficult slopes where she liked to ski with her colleagues. "But owing to the start of the thaw, some of these places may not be safe," she added. "I would hate to see another of your relatives in the San!"
"I hadn't thought of that," Major Benson admitted. "He will have to wait until next year, then."
When the waiter returned to their table with their meal, Miss Wilson could see that the Major was impressed with the food. They ate and talked more about life on the Platz, and she began to feel far more relaxed in his company. He was a very good listener, and soon she found herself telling him things that she did not usually tell other people; about her sister, Cherry, and her reasons for joining the staff of the Chalet School when it was in Austria. In return he told her a little of his wartime experiences, of how he had been a member of S.O.E. and worked in France behind enemy lines. They ate a delicious desert, with piles of whipped cream and then drank coffee that was almost as good as the nectar produced by Mlle Lachenais.
Finally, it was time to leave. "I can't thank you enough, Helena," he said as they stood up and put on their coats again. "I hope I may call you Helena?" he added.
Miss Wilson was rather taken aback by the use of her full name, but then she remembered how she had introduced herself to him on the day of the accident. "You may," she told him, "but my friends usually call me Nell. It is strange to hear Helena again after all these years!"
"Would you mind if I called you Helena?" he asked again. "It is a lovely name, and suits you so well."
Miss Wilson was rather taken aback by his comment, but they reached the car at that point, so she was able to cover her confusion by opening the door and getting in. Major Benson drove away and nothing more was said about Miss Wilson's name.
"I almost wish I hadn't moved out of the hotel," Major Benson said as drove back to St. Mildred's. "The food there is just excellent. Andrew is a good cook, but the chef at the Sorenberg is a master."
"Yes, it is definitely the best place to eat on the Platz," Miss Wilson agreed. "Thank you for taking me there this evening. I have had a very enjoyable time."
"So have I. We should do it again sometime." At that point he pulled up outside St. Mildred's. He got out, opened the door for Miss Wilson and walked her up the path to the school. "Good night, Helena," he said, offering her his hand.
Miss Wilson shook it and said, "Good night, William," feeling awkward as she used his name for the first time. She then took out her key and unlocked the door of the chalet, as he went back to his car and drove away.

 

#87:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 7:08 am

What a lovely date. Very Happy

Thanks Fatima - hope things calm down a bit for you soon.

Liz

 

#88:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 7:32 am

that was lovely, thanks Fatima Very Happy

 

#89:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 7:38 am

Oh Nell, don't let yourself get carried away! Laughing Well, not too much anyway.

Thanks, Fatima.

 

#90:  Author: Róisín, Location: Galway, Eire PostPosted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 9:21 am

Fatima wrote:
"Not Major, my name is William," he told her. "You are the first friend I have made here in Switzerland. I don't like my friends being too formal...


Oooh! He's flirting! Very Happy

 

#91:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 10:04 am

Thanks, Fatima. That was a lovely date. I'm glad they're using first names but every time I hear the name Helena, I think of Len!

 

#92:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 6:17 pm

I never think of Miss Wilson as Helena - but Helena and William is so much nicer than Nell and Bill.

Thanks Fatima

 

#93:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 6:38 pm

Very strange hearing Nell addressed as Helena - but the Major seems to be lovely.

Thanks Fatima.

 

#94:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 8:22 pm

The bunnies have been whipped back into shape, and have been very obliging today!

Miss Wilson slept like a top that night, and was roused by the pealing of the bell the next morning. She went about her work as usual, or at least that was what she thought she was doing. In reality, she was somewhat distracted, and the girls that she was teaching found that she was far more easy-going than usual. Her colleagues found her to be lighthearted, laughing at silly jokes she would not normally have found amusing and joining in some friendly banter with her older colleagues as she had not done for some time. Julie Berne, a colleague of many years standing, even observed to Nell that she seemed in an exceptionally good mood, and received the airy response that she was just being her usual cheery self.
At exactly coffee time, Miss Wilson heard a knock at her office door and Gill Culver entered, carrying a bunch of flowers. Miss Wilson raised a quizzical eyebrow at her secretary, to which Gill responded, "These have just been delivered for you. There is a note," and she held out the flowers and a small envelope. "Aren't they beautiful?"
Miss Wilson took them, with a "Thank you, Gill, that will be all," and watched as her secretary left. "Now who," she asked herself, "is going to be sending me flowers?"
She put the flowers on her desk and slit the envelope with her letter opener. Inside was a card, printed very neatly, that said, 'Helena, Thank you for a delightful evening, Yours, William.' Miss Wilson read it twice, then put it on the desk beside the flowers and sat back in her chair with a very thoughtful sigh. "Dinner and flowers," she said aloud. "Whatever next?"
A knock at the door heralded the return of Gill, with a vase of water for the flowers. "I thought you would like this," she said, putting the vase on the desk in front of the Head.
Gill Culver, a former Head Girl of the Chalet School, had always been an excellent secretary, with whom Miss Wilson had enjoyed working almost as much as she had with Rosalie Dene. Gill had always respected confidentiality, and had been as discrete as a Head's secretary should be, but Miss Wilson was sure she saw Gill's glance stray to the card on the table. Gill looked up, caught Nell's eye and blushed, confirming the latter's suspicions. Without waiting for more, Miss Culver turned and left the room.
Miss Wilson stood and arranged the flowers in the vase, wondering where the Major had got such beautiful blooms at that time of year. She stood the vase on the book shelves beneath the window, so that she could admire them as she worked at her desk, but not knock the vase over. She then put the card into the top drawer of her desk, deciding that she would think about it later. She had no class immediately after lunch, so she had an hour free before taking a double science lesson. In that time she would go for a nice walk and have a good think, away from the distractions of the school.
As the bell for lessons was due to ring, Miss Wilson finished her coffee, picked up her briefcase and headed off to the geography room. There she put the class through their paces, giving a brief review of the work they had covered on glacial environments, then moving rapidly on to desert environments. She concluded her lesson with some preparation on desert terminology, most of which the girls should already know, then dismissed them for their lunch.
Miss Wilson enjoyed her meal, which she ate with the rest of the staff at the staff table in the dining room. She declined Julie Berne's offer of coffee in the staffroom after the meal and went instead to get her boots and winter coat, then she headed off for her walk. It was a lovely sunny day, indicative of the approach of spring, but the air was still cold. Walking briskly, Miss Wilson headed down the road away from the busier end of the Platz, and was soon walking one of her favourite paths, up towards the high peaks that towered over St. Mildred's. She did not plan to go far, as she knew that the path soon became steeper and narrower, and she did not have time for an expedition up the mountain, but she wanted to walk somewhere she would be unlikely to meet anyone else. The snow was still on the ground, but it would clearly not be long before the thaw set in properly. The air was fresh and clear and Miss Wilson breathed deeply, allowing the cobwebs of the morning to be well and truly blown away.
Once she was well away from the school, Miss Wilson finally allowed her thoughts to dwell upon the subject she was eager to consider. Major Benson had taken her out for dinner, and then he had sent her flowers. He was very handsome, she finally admitted to herself. He was very pleasant company, polite, respectful and yet genuinely interested in what she had to say. He was not married, in fact, he had told her over dinner that he had never been married. He was likely to be spending many months on the Platz, waiting for his sister to recover, and it seemed likely that he would ask to see Miss Wilson again. And, finally, he insisted on calling her Helena.
Miss Wilson glanced at her watch and saw that she would need to turn round at this point and return to school, or she would be late for her next class. Abruptly she turned, and started to walk carefully back down the path, surprised how far along she had managed to get. 'I hope I don't slip,' she thought to herself. 'No one would come out here and look for me!'
As she walked back down the path, Miss Wilson thought about her position a little more. She had long ago given up any hopes she may have had in her youth about getting married, and had known that she would be happy teaching for as long as she wished to continue working. She was not worried about retirement, as she had a little cottage in England where she knew she could potter in the garden and read and do all the other things she didn't have time for while she was working. Not that she had any desire to go into retirement for many years, she reminded herself with a smile. 'But is there space in my life for someone else?' she wondered. 'Would I like to see more of the Major, and spend my free time with him?' The path widened, wound ever on downwards, bringing St. Mildred's into view once more. As she came down, Miss Wilson found her thoughts coming back to earth, too. 'He has taken me to dinner because I am the first person outside the san that he met here,' she reminded herself. 'That is hardly the step before wedding bells.' But as she opened the gate to the school, a little voice in Miss Wilson's head asked, 'Would you like to marry him?'

 

#95:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 8:25 pm

I didn't realize that was so long. Is it better to do it in two posts, or is that ok as one? Thank you for continuing to read this; I really appreciate your comments.

 

#96:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 8:45 pm

Was that long? Wink Fatima, I think that when you have been here a little longer you will realize that the board members here enjoy posts of the longer variety - and then they will look at you and ask you for more immediately! So I guess it just depends on how you like to do things - as it comes, in long-ish chapters, or in tiny little bits to keep people wondering what is happening.

Anyhow, back to the drabble. That was just great, it was good to see the Major sending her some flowers, and another insight into the curiosity of Gill. How long will they remain the only ones who know what is slowly happening. Nell seems to be moving on as well. Now, the only question remaining is, what will Nell's responce be?

Thanks Fatima

 

#97:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 9:54 pm

Thanks, Fatima. The flowers sound lovely and I'm glad Nell/Helena is already thinking about marriage.

 

#98:  Author: Róisín, Location: Galway, Eire PostPosted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 10:28 pm

*likes long posts the best*

Yay! A new instalment. I'm just loving this Fatima. And I'll tell you why. You are just gifted at detailing the everydayness of Nell's life and day, while keeping the story moving and the plot exciting. I really enjoyed reading that account of her pre-class walk, and I felt like I was there, as you told us about the weather, the path, her thoughts.. etc, but without it being boring.

Moooooore! Very Happy

 

#99:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 10:44 pm

Thanks Fatima - as long or as short as you like - just please keep posting story! Laughing

 

#100:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Sep 09, 2005 11:40 pm

Lovely - thanks Fatima

Liz

 

#101:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 7:04 am

Thank you for the comments. Here's a bit more, and as our weekend is Friday/Saturday I may be back later!

Miss Wilson, practical as ever, put that very difficult question out of her head and concentrated on teaching. She was always busy, what with her responsibilities as head of St. Mildred's and with the classes she took, and then she had her friends and her role in the smooth functioning of the little Catholic chapel that the Chalet girls had had built on the Platz. She allowed pleasant thoughts of the Major to pop into her head at odd moments in the day, but her time was generally so full that she had plenty of other things to occupy her thoughts.
She did not hear from the Major again that week, but he phoned her on Saturday morning. Miss Wilson was surprised at the smile the sound of his voice brought to her face when he said, "Good morning, Helena."
"Good morning. Thank you for the flowers, William. They are lovely."
"I'm glad you liked them. I was wondering if you were free this morning," he went on. "I have to go to Interlaken and I thought you might like to come with me."
"I will be free at eleven," she answered. "I have some duties here until then. After that, I would very much like to go with you."
"I thought we could have lunch there, then I have some shopping to do. And I have not been able to get the thought of those marvellous cakes and the lashings of cream floating atop the coffee that you were telling me about out of my mind, so I thought you could take me to your favourite patisserie and let me get some first hand experience of them!"
Miss Wilson chuckled, and agreed. "Yes, I know just the place."
"I will come by and pick you up at eleven fifteen," he told her.
Major Benson arrived punctually, and was shown into the office by Miss Culver, as Miss Wilson had been detained by some students who wanted to know more about the essay marks she had given them. Miss Culver shot her Head Mistress a knowing look as Miss Wilson arrived, slightly flustered because she was late. "Major Benson is in your office," she said, her voice carefully neutral. She was still wary of Miss Wilson's sarcastic tongue, from her years as a pupil at the school, and knew that Miss Wilson was viewing her suspiciously at the moment. She had no desire to incur the wrath of 'Bill' as she still thought of Miss Wilson.
"Thank you, Gill." Miss Wilson collected her coat and went in to meet the Major. He was standing by the window, looking out over the garden, and he turned as she came into her office. He smiled at her, obviously pleased to see her, but refrained from saying anything more than a polite good morning.
"Sorry to keep you waiting," Miss Wilson said, her voice far more politely formal than she had intended. "The girls had some questions on their essays."
"That is fine," he assured her. "If you are ready, we'll go, but I am happy to wait if you have something else to do. There is no rush."
Miss Wilson knew that Gill Culver was listening and that she would certainly be putting two and two together and making at least six or seven of them. Not that she could blame her secretary. It was a rather unusual situation, and people were sure to start talking when they discovered that she was to be found spending her free time in the company of a man.
"I'm ready," she said resolutely.
Major Benson allowed Miss Wilson to precede him from the room, and then he walked beside her down the path. "I am sorry if I have made you feel uncomfortable," he said, opening the car door for her.
"That's all right," she answered, and she laughed. "Gill Culver used to be one of my students, and now she is my secretary. She has known me for years, but this is the first time I have disappeared with a gentleman on my afternoon off in all those years!"
Major Benson laughed as well. "I see," he said. "Definite material for gossip."
"Precisely!" Miss Wilson relaxed in her seat, deciding that she did not care about the gossip. "How is James? And what about Jane?"
"They are both feeling much better. I have just come from there, actually. And that leads nicely on to the next favour I have to ask you. Jane was wondering if you would like to come and visit her. She says to tell you that she understands how busy you are, but she thought you might have an afternoon off, and that you would be more than welcome to have tea with her."
"Yes, I would love to see her," Miss Wilson agreed, knowing how lonely people felt when they came to the San and had very few friends to visit. "Tomorrow I shall go to Mass in the morning, with the girls, and have dinner with them, but I am free in the afternoon. If that is not too soon, I could walk over to the San and be there at around half past three."
"Perfect. I will go this evening and tell Jane to expect you."
Miss Wilson found that the journey to Interlaken passed quickly. Once away from the Platz the roads were clear and they made good time. Major Benson parked the car and they walked to the restaurant in which he had reserved a table. One of the doctors at the San had recommended it to him, and Miss Wilson, who had visited it before, assured him that it was a very good choice. They had another excellent meal together, and discussed a variety of topics. After some strong coffee, they left the restaurant and Miss Wilson showed the Major the main shopping area. He was looking for some books for his sister, so they visited the bookshop and managed to find her several volumes. Miss Wilson recommended one of her favourite titles to the Major, and he discretely purchased one of his own favourites, planning to present it to her later.
Their next stop was to get some batteries for James' radio, as he had recovered enough to be able to listen to some music for a while each day. Afterwards, they wandered around, looking at some of the other shops until they came to Miss Wilson's favourite patisserie. Major Benson was thrilled with the selection of cakes on offer, and laughingly confessed to having a very sweet tooth. Their coffee arrived, a positive feather bed of whipped cream, and when they left the patisserie they both felt the need for a walk. Miss Wilson took the Major to the Goldey Promenade, and they walked alongside the River Aare. Although it was chilly, it was the bracing Alpine cold, not the damp, wet English cold, and they had a lovely stroll. At one point, owing to the fact that she was not wearing her nailed boots, Nell slipped and would have fallen, but the Major grabbed her arm and stopped her from embarrassing herself by sprawling inelegantly in the slush. He then tucked her hand through his arm, and they walked on, until the sky was beginning to show signs of dusk. Reluctantly, they headed back to the car, and journeyed back to the Gornetz Platz.

Last edited by Fatima on Thu Sep 15, 2005 7:50 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#102:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 7:26 am

lovely thanks Fatima. How nice it is to see their friendship growing like that. And she is more or less certain to meet up with him when going to see his sister tomorrow. Very Happy

 

#103:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 7:59 am

Lovely seeing this develop - but now the gossip will be all over St Midred's!

 

#104:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 8:47 am

Poor Nell - aware of how this is going to look to the School! Laughing

Thanks, Fatima.

 

#105:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 10:57 am

Thanks, Fatima. They seem to get on really well together.

 

#106:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 3:33 pm

Here's some more for you; a nice long bit!

When they finally pulled up outside St. Mildred's it was dark. Miss Wilson got out of the car and Major Benson walked her back to the door of the chalet, as he had done before. "I can't stop," he told her, in reply to her invitation for coffee. "I must go and see Jane again, before visiting time is over. She will like a new book to read before she goes to sleep. I will tell her that you will be over tomorrow afternoon," he added, reminding Nell of her promise to visit Jane during the afternoon.
"Yes, I will be there," she assured him. "Thank you, William, for a really lovely afternoon."
"Thank you," he told her, producing a package from the pocket of his overcoat. "Here's something that I think you will enjoy reading. I hope you haven't already got it."
"Thank you," she said again. "Although you really did not have to get me anything."
"I didn't buy it because I had to, but because I wanted to," he said, "so enjoy it. Now I really must be going. See you tomorrow."
"Good bye," she answered, opening the door of the school and waving as he got into the car and drove away.
Miss Wilson closed the door behind her, and began to unbutton her coat. Suddenly Gretel, one of the maids, came out of the Head's office and said, "Oh, Madame, you have a visitor. Miss Annersley is here, and I have given her tea."
Miss Wilson suddenly remembered that Hilda had said she would call over that evening, as they wanted to discuss the timings of the external examinations that would be going on in both schools in just a couple of months time. Hilda, always keen to be organized, liked to address such matters early, so Nell had invited her over to get the arrangements sorted out. Hastily removing her coat and flinging it over Gill Culver's chair, Miss Wilson strode into her office. Hilda was sitting beside the fire, sipping tea and looking decidedly puzzled as her old friend appeared.
"Where on earth have you been? I was getting worried about you," she said, fixing Nell with a look that she knew well. "I have been waiting for you for about half an hour."
"I am sorry, Hilda," said Miss Wilson apologetically. "I was in Interlaken."
"Whatever for?" Miss Annersley demanded. "Do you want some tea?"
"Yes, please," Nell answered, with a smile at the thought that she was being offered her own tea, in her own office. She put her parcel on the table and went to sit in the other armchair. "I went with a friend of mine," she continued, knowing that the time had come to confide in her friend. "Major Benson."
"Who is Major Benson?" Miss Annersley inquired, a strange look coming into her clear grey eyes.
"He was the passenger in the car that crashed into the school wall," Miss Wilson explained. "He wanted to get some books for his sister – she is in the san – and asked if I could show him the best place to go."
Miss Annersley's silence was even more eloquent than her comment would have been.
"I had dinner with him in the week, as well," Miss Wilson continued. "And there is no need to look at me like that, Hilda Annersley."
"Like what?" came the innocent response.
"Oh, your English, Hilda!" Miss Wilson chided, as Hilda had chided her so many times in the past.
"Well, if you would stop looking like the cat that got the cream, and just tell me what is going on, I would not need to resort to mutilating the Queen's English," Hilda retorted. "Nell, you look so happy that I can't help but feel happy for you. I presume that he is a very nice man."
"Very nice," Nell said, aware of a warm glow spreading through her. "We've talked and talked and it is just so natural. I never imagined that I could spend so much time with a man and find it so comfortable. I have even begun to wonder…" Miss Wilson paused, realizing just how involved she had allowed herself to become with the Major. She had not even known him a week, and had only seen him four times. That was a very short acquaintance. And yet, she felt that she had known him for so much longer. "And I am going to meet his sister tomorrow. She wants me to go and have tea with her."
Hilda Annersley nodded, realizing that Major Benson must share Miss Wilson's feelings, and so his sister was eager to meet her and see for herself what Nell was like. "When will you bring him to meet me?" she asked.
"I hadn't thought of that," Nell admitted. Then she grinned at her friend. "I am still at the stage where I want to keep him all to myself," she said. "But you are right, you should meet him. I shall think about how. I can't really have a dinner party here, or bring him over to the school to see you. Can you imagine the stir that would cause?"
Hilda laughed. "Yes, it would create an incredible amount of speculation, which I don't think you would enjoy."
Miss Wilson drained her tea and held out the cup. "Is there any more in the pot?" she asked. "We had éclairs and coffee, and I am parched."
Miss Annersley poured her a second cup. "Now let's just get the exams sorted out," she suggested. "I shall have to be getting back soon."

 

#107:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 4:31 pm

Glad Hilda was happy for her - don't think I could bare it if she hadn't!

Thanks Fatima.

 

#108:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 4:39 pm

Thanks, Fatima. I'm glad Nell has confided in Hilda and Hilda is happy about everything.

 

#109:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 5:20 pm

That was just lovely. I'm glad Nell was ready to talk to Hilda about him. Thanks Fatima

 

#110:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 5:38 pm

What a delightful afternoon in Interlaken. And Nell's comments to Hilda give away so much. Thanks Fatima.

Looking forward to the meeting with Jane

Liz

 

#111:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 7:16 pm

I have learnt my lesson - never complain about the bunnies, or they keep on and on and on at you and you can't do anything except sit by they computer and let them run free. Please over-feed them so that they become fat and lazy for a few days!
Miss Wilson took the Catholic girls from St. Mildred's to the Chalet School chapel the next morning. The Catholic chapel, and the neighbouring Protestant chapel, had been built as part of the Chalet School's twenty-first birthday celebrations. The girls from the main branch of the Chalet School also attended the service, along with any of the residents of the Platz. Miss Wilson was very involved in the running of the Chapel, and had spent many hours there in prayer and contemplation over the years. She had given a beautiful stained glass window, which was dedicated to the memory of her sister, Cherry.
As usual, Miss Wilson enjoyed the service. She was deeply religious, and had always found the words of the Mass a comfort in difficult times. Now, with another dilemma in her mind, she prayed fervently for guidance, seeking God's direction in her life once again.
When the service ended, she stood to lead her girls outside, where they usually passed the time of day with their friends from the Chalet proper. As they walked down the aisle, she noticed Major Benson sitting in a pew at the back of the chapel. He made no move towards her, but gave her a smile that she returned. She was glad that he remained in his place because there were so many of her students around and she did not need them talking about her behind her back. Aware once more of a feeling of contentment, this time not wholly engineered by the service, she continued to shepherd her charges out of the chapel into the pale sunshine of the day.
The Protestant chapel was so near the Catholic one that the girls from that faith were able to meet up with their friends, too. The Chalet girls were very well trained, and even though there were so many of them, they talked quietly and behaved with decorum. Mistresses from the Chalet came over to chat to Miss Wilson, and everyone enjoyed the opportunity for an informal get together. The staff allowed the girls ten minutes to greet their friends, then they started to shepherd them together once again. Miss Wilson and Mlle Berne found their girls returning to them, talking quietly or looking reflectively around them, and started to walk in the direction of the road. There was no need to count their charges, or get them into a crocodile, as they were dignified young ladies of at least sixteen. As they reached the road, Miss Wilson heard a familiar golden voice behind her.
"How lovely to see you at Mass, Major Benson! How are you finding life on the Gornetz Platz?"
"Good morning, Mrs. Maynard," came the Major's reply. "I am very happy here. It is a lovely place to live."
"That's good. And how is Mrs. Chapman?"
"She's feeling much better, thank you."
"It's the air," Jo Maynard said knowledgeably. "It does wonders for everyone. I shall be at the San this afternoon, and I would very much like to visit her, if you think that would be all right."
"She has another friend coming this afternoon," Major Benson explained apologetically. "Too much excitement would tire her. Perhaps you could see her another day?"
"Of course," Jo agreed easily. "I am often there. Now I must go and catch Miss Wilson. I haven't seen her for far too long. Good bye, Major."
Miss Wilson prepared herself for Jo to greet her, whilst still admiring the adroit way in which William had put her off. It was not easy to dissuade Joey from doing something, yet he had managed it with perfect politeness. She turned as she heard her name called, and saw that Major Benson was still close behind. He grinned at her, knowing full well that she would have heard their conversation, and then she turned to Jo.
Jo noticed Miss Wilson looking at the Major. "He's the gentleman who was involved in the accident outside St. Mildred's," she informed her friend in a low voice.
"Yes, I know," Miss Wilson replied. "How are you, Jo?"
"Very well, thank you. I was wondering whether you would be able to come over to dinner next weekend. Jack has some doctors over from England and we thought it would be a nice ending to their visit to have a dinner party. Would Saturday at eight be all right for you? I'm asking Hilda and Gwynneth, and Rosalie too."
"Oh, Jo, I don't know yet," said Miss Wilson. "I have been so busy lately. Can I call you in the week and let you know?"
"You aren't usually so busy at this time of year," Jo pointed out. "Never mind, Nell, call me before Thursday, so I have time to make all my arrangements. I hope you can manage to find time for me, though. I will miss you if you aren't there."
"I'll do my best," Miss Wilson promised then she set off down the road after the group of girls who were heading back to St. Mildred's with Mlle Berne.

 

#112:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 7:28 pm

Poor Jo - what will she think on the if/when she eventually learns more about it! Thanks Fatima.

 

#113:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 7:45 pm

Sorry to tell you this Fatima, but however much you feed them they don't get to the fat and lazy stage!

You might occasionally manage to slip them a dose Wink

*sends bunny food anyway 'cos she wants more*

Liz

 

#114:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 8:09 pm

I find that whatever you do it doesn't stop them whispering the plots, the only thing you can do is accept it and keep writing!

Thanks Fatima - like the Major's way of dealing with Jo. Laughing

 

#115:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 8:51 pm

Thanks, Fatima. I hope Nell accepts the dinner invitation and Major Benson is invited as well.

 

#116:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 3:49 am

Thanks Fatima, this is fun. I hope she finds that she is going out again on Saturday - and not to Jo's!

 

#117:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 12:30 pm

But, at this rate, how long can she keep it a secret? Laughing

Thanks, Fatima

 

#118:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 3:43 pm

I must apologise to Joey fans for making her seem less than loveable! I do like her most of the time, but I can see that she would be irritating, especially when she takes control of everything and everyone. Here is the next installment.

Sundays at St. Mildred's were quiet and peaceful, much as they were at the Chalet School. The girls attended one or other of the chapels in the morning, and spent their time reading quietly until lunch. After lunch they were expected to rest quietly for an hour, but after that their time was their own. Miss Wilson put a lot of trust in her girls, and, so far, this trust had never been abused. They were growing up fast, and they were very responsible girls, so they amused themselves and made certain that they did not lose the privileges they had been granted. Miss Wilson usually spent the afternoon in her study, available for anyone who wanted to see her, and worked if she needed to get something finished. Otherwise she would read, or catch up on her correspondence, glad of the chance to have peace and quiet.
On this day, however, she was not going to be available. She put on her stout boots and winter coat once more, wrapping a scarf around her neck, as it had been chilly earlier on and she did not want to get cold on her long walk. Matron Rider came in as Miss Wilson was getting ready to leave, so Nell informed her that she was off to visit the San, and that Miss Nalder would be in charge while she was away. "Not that we need to have any one in charge on a Sunday afternoon," Nell added. "I should be back in time for abendessen, Gertrude, but I will not be here for kaffee."
"We will be fine without you," Gertrude Rider replied. "It isn't as if we have a whole crowd of middles bent on keeping us from a dull existence, after all. Go carefully, though, Nell. It does look as if we might get some more snow later."
"I will be careful," the Head promised, opening the front door. "Good bye, Gertrude."
Miss Wilson set off down the road, enjoying the liberating feeling of being out of the school and in the fresh air, with time to reflect on her recent experiences. She adopted the mountaineer's pace, one that was not especially quick, but meant that she would reach the San without feeling exhausted. The sky was cloudy now, and Miss Wilson knew that Gertrude Rider had been correct when she had predicted more snow for the afternoon. There was a chill in the air, making Miss Wilson wish that she had also put on her woolly hat.
The road to the San went past the Mirlhof, the chalet that Major Benson and his nephews had taken. It was a lovely little place, with the traditional balcony around it and some gaily painted frescoes on the wall. A little white fence surrounded the chalet and the path from the front door to the gate had been carefully cleared. Miss Wilson tried not to look too interested in the chalet as she passed, but as she attempted to be nonchalant, she heard her name being called.
"Helena! Wait a moment!"
She turned and saw Major Benson at the door, pulling on his coat. She walked back to the gate and stood there, waiting for him to join her. He was soon at her side, throwing a scarf around his neck before taking her arm. "I thought I would see you if I waited long enough," he commented as they started off along the road together. "It seemed a better idea to meet you here than to come to the school and embarrass you."
"You don't embarrass me," she said at once.
"No, but I could. You are the Head Mistress and you must be above all sorts of gossip."
Miss Wilson was touched for his concern for her position. "You are right," she agreed. "I would hate the girls to gossip about me."

 

#119:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 4:11 pm

How nice of him to realize that she is the most vulnerable of the staff and to wait for her at the San rather than going to see her at the school. I do hope that Nell get's back to the school alright, with all that bad weather. Thanks Fatima

 

#120:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 4:15 pm

But won't those who work at the San see them together and spread the word? Laughing

Like Squirrel am worrying a bit about that bad weather building up. Crying or Very sad

Thanks, Fatima

 

#121:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 4:21 pm

Don'r apologise, Fatima - that is exactly like Joey - wonderful but irritating!

Thanks for latest instalment.

 

#122:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 4:34 pm

Squirrel wrote:
I do hope that Nell get's back to the school alright, with all that bad weather. Thanks Fatima

Have to disagree with you there Squirrel, I hope Nell and the Major get snowed into a little hut/chalet on their own Wink

Thanks Fatima

Liz

 

#123:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 7:16 pm

Another long bit; the bunnies are keeping me so busy!

They walked along the road, enjoying the tranquility of the Platz on a Sunday afternoon. In the summer it became much busier, with crowds of tourists coming and going, and at the height of the skiing season there were also likely to be plenty of people around. In between times, the residents of the Platz enjoyed having it to themselves. On their way to the San they only saw a few children, playing out in the remains of the snow. As they reached the huge hospital a few cars passed them, heading into the San for visiting time, and they saw some people arriving on foot. Major Benson held the door open for Miss Wilson and they went into the foyer together. Matron Graves was on duty, and she greeted Miss Wilson warmly.
Major Benson led the way to the lift and they went up to the second floor, where Jane Chapman's room was. "Jane is thrilled that you agreed to come and see her," he said as they walked along the corridor. "She is getting fed up with just Andrew and me coming to visit. Andrew is already here, he brought the car, but we won't disturb your tea. We want to spend the afternoon with James. Andrew is leaving on Tuesday, as he has to get back to work, so he'll be here with his brother as much as possible."
Major Benson opened the door of a small room and they went in. Jane Chapman was sitting in a chair, dressed in a thick navy dressing gown. She was a tall, slender woman, with the air of fragility that characterized so many of the patients at the San. She looked very like her brother, with the same brown eyes, and her greying hair was cut short. As Miss Wilson entered the room, she stood up and held out her hand. "Miss Wilson, it is so nice to meet you," she said, her voice low pitched and warm.
"It’s nice to meet you, too," Miss Wilson said, shaking the slim hand with its surprisingly firm grip. "Please sit down, Mrs. Chapman. You should not be doing too much so soon after coming here."
"You must call me Jane," Mrs. Chapman went on. "William has told me so much about you that I feel I already know you."
At that point, the door opened again and a tall young man came in. "The tea will be here in about fifteen minutes," he said. "Hello, Uncle William. Hello," he went on, crossing the room and holding out his hand to Miss Wilson. "I'm Andrew Chapman."
"Helena Wilson," Nell replied, amazed at how welcoming they were. Andrew was a very handsome young man, with a shock of brown hair and the same brown eyes that seemed to run in the family. "It's nice to meet you."
"Come and sit down, Helena," suggested Jane, indicating another armchair. "William and Andrew are going to visit James, so we can have a good chat while we have our tea."
"We will be back later, so do save a cup for us," William said, hanging his coat on the hook on the back of the door. "And if they send in those tea cakes, you might save us some of those, too." He took Miss Wilson's coat from her and hung it up, then he smiled at her. "We will see you later," he said and he and Andrew headed off to visit James.
Miss Wilson sat down in the other armchair and saw that Jane was regarding her with interest. "I trained as a teacher," she said, "but I stopped work when I got married. I taught geography in a boys' school for five years. It wasn't a boarding school, though. How lucky you have been to come out here to work. From what William says, it's a beautiful place to have a school."
"Yes, it is," Miss Wilson agreed. "We were so lucky to come out here again." And she told Jane some of the history of the Chalet School.
Jane Chapman proved to be a good listener and Miss Wilson tried to keep talking to save her hostess' energy. Having lived near the San for so many years, and known so many people who had come to stay there, she was well aware of the need to keep them quiet and not let them talk too much, or get too excited. The tea duly arrived, and Jane allowed Nell to pour. They ate some of the delicious tea cakes about which the Major had spoken, and then Miss Wilson noticed that her new friend was beginning to look weary. Fortunately, William and Andrew returned at that point, and William promptly ordered his sister back to bed.
"How is James?" Jane asked, once she had been settled against her pillows.
"He's feeling much better today," Andrew answered. "He said his headache has gone. And Dr. Entwhistle said that he should be able to get down to visit you in another day or two."
Jane gave a tired smile. "Don't say anything else," William ordered. "You need to rest." He glanced over at Miss Wilson and saw that she looked anxious. "We'll have our tea and then go," he decided. "Helena, can I get you some more tea?"
"Thank you." She held out her cup and he poured her some more, while Andrew offered her another tea cake. "I am glad that James is feeling better," she commented.
"So is he," Andrew said, with a laugh. "He has been like a bear with a sore head – both literally and metaphorically – these last few days!"
Jane smiled and would have added to the conversation, but Major Benson silenced her with a glance. "He is pleased he can come down and see you soon," he told her. "He's feeling so guilty, worrying you at the time you need to be taken care of."
They drank their tea and Andrew managed to finish the tea cakes, then Major Benson stood up. Miss Wilson and Andrew followed suit. Crossing to the bed, Miss Wilson reached down and patted Jane's hand. "I'm sorry to have tired you so much," she said sincerely. "But I hope you will let me come and see you again. It's been lovely to meet you."
Jane nodded and smiled, but, mindful of the stern look William was giving her, said nothing. Andrew kissed his mother's cheek and went to pass out the coats and scarves, while the Major leant over his sister with a concerned air. "Rest now," he instructed, pulling her covers straight. "I'll come in tomorrow morning, so mind you sleep well tonight."
Jane nodded again, and then Miss Wilson heard her murmur, "She's perfect, William."
"I know," he agreed softly. He straightened up and went to take his own coat and scarf.
Hiding her blushes by wrapping herself in her scarf, Miss Wilson dared not look at him. She had had her suspicions about the reason for her invitation to the San, but had not expected to hear any such comment from Mrs. Chapman, let alone from William himself. With final good byes, they left the little room and walked down the corridor towards the lift once more.

 

#124:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 7:28 pm

Oooohhh! Nell was there on approval! Glad she passed.

Thanks Fatima.

 

#125:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 7:28 pm

Oh now isnt that unusual - Nell blushing. Not that I blame her mind you, that really was a most embarrasing comment to hear. Hope that it continuesto go well between Helena and William.

Thanks Fatima

 

#126:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 7:43 pm

Yay!

Thanks Fatima

Liz

 

#127:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 10:40 pm

Oh how lovely - I'm so glad that Helena and William's relationship is progressing well.
Thanks Fatima. I hope the bunnies continue to bite

 

#128:  Author: Guest,  PostPosted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 11:41 pm

Fatima, the pace of this is lovely...., and all the happenings are so gently done.

 

#129:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 11:59 pm

Sorry, Fatima, that was me. Have to log in each time at the moment... Embarassed

 

#130:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 1:38 pm

Thanks for all the feedback. Here we go again!

"You haven't told me yet if you liked the book," Major Benson remembered, taking Nell's arm.
Before she could answer, they rounded the corner and almost walked into someone walking in the opposite direction. It was none other than Jo Maynard. Watching the look that momentarily crossed Jo's face, Miss Wilson had the urge to laugh. She had seldom seen Jo at a loss for words, and she was going to enjoy the moment.
"Nell!" Jo said, sounding surprised.
"Hello, Jo," Miss Wilson answered. "I am sorry I can't stop to chat, I have to get back to school. I shall speak to you soon."
"Of course," answered Jo, still looking at the hand Miss Wilson had tucked through Major Benson's arm.
"Good afternoon, Mrs. Maynard," added Major Benson, then he and Miss Wilson continued along the corridor together, catching up with Andrew at the lift. "You take the car, Andrew," the Major said, as Andrew tried to pass him the keys. "We will be quite happy walking, won't we, Helena?"
Miss Wilson had a quick look at the sky. It was still overcast, but it did not look as though there was likely to be snow for a few hours yet. "Yes, I am happy to walk," she replied.
"Are you sure?" Andrew asked. "It's a long way."
"It's not that far," Miss Wilson assured him with a smile. "And I have lived her so long now that I am used to walking."
"Well, if you are sure," said Andrew. "I'm going to go back to James for a while, Uncle William, and I shall see you at the chalet later. Good bye, Miss Wilson."
Major Benson and Miss Wilson walked down the path towards the main road. For a while they walked in a companionable silence, then Miss Wilson remembered the Major's question. "I have only just read a little of the book," she said, referring to the volume of poetry he had bought her, "but it is lovely so far. Some of them I know, but some are new to me. I enjoy poetry very much, because it doesn't take as long to read as a novel. I find my spare time very limited and it is nice to be able to dip into a book without needing to read it all." Miss Wilson looked up at the Major. "Will you tell me your telephone number, please?" she requested, feeling a little embarrassed to be asking. "I would have liked to call you to thank you for the book, and before that, the flowers."
"Of course," he told her. "I will call you this evening and tell you, unless you have a better head for numbers than I do and can remember it if I tell you now?"
"You can call this evening," she told him. "I can write it down then."
"I can see how you walk a lot here," he observed, as they headed down the road. "It is just so beautiful here. We have a magnificent view of the Jungfrau from our chalet, on a fine day, of course. And the air is so different from England!"
"Yes, it is, as the girls say, like nectar!" Nell answered. "In the middle of winter, when it is at its coldest here, the snow makes it like an enchanted world. In the summer there are masses of flowers all round, and it is warm and sunny. It is a truly wonderful place to live."
"So you have never considered returning to live in England?" he asked.
"No, never. This is my home now and I can't imagine living anywhere else."

 

#131:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 2:08 pm

Anonymous wrote:
Fatima, the pace of this is lovely.....


They haven't even known one another a week; because I have written so much, I have to keep reminding myself that they have only just met!

 

#132:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 2:47 pm

Sometimes I guess it works that way. Anyhow, I'm not left feeling shocked about how fast they are moving - I'm just left feeling happy that it seems to be working out for them. After all, William seems to be a man who knows his own mind, and we all know that Nell is as well! Sorry, I cannot keep on referring to her as Helena - she seems like a different person to that! Thanks Fatima

 

#133:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 3:26 pm

Yes, I have just learnt how to quote people's posts!

Squirrel wrote:
I cannot keep on referring to her as Helena - she seems like a different person to that!


The Major seems to be called William all the time, not Bill. I felt that he would find Helena to be a lovely name, and prefer to use that than Nell, which sounds less stately and (dare I say it??) more lower class! (Sorry, I hope I didn't offend anyone there. Especially if you are called Nell.....)

Removes foot from mouth and leaves hastily...

 

#134:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 3:37 pm

I wouldnt imagine that any one will take offence at that. It seems unusual calling Nell by her full first name, but it gives William character to have him call her that. And anyway if you called him 'Bill' you would have me confused about whether you were referring to him or her!

 

#135:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 4:31 pm

Thanks Fatima - this is lovely Very Happy

*still hoping William and Helena will get stranded somewhere cosy by a snowstorm*

Liz

 

#136:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 5:14 pm

Sorry to disappoint you, Liz, they are insisting on going their own way. I tried to make them, but they weren't having any of it! Hope this will still please.


They walked on, able to be quiet together just as easily as they could talk comfortably. They reached the Mirlhof, but Major Benson refused to let Miss Wilson walk on to the school by herself, as it was beginning to snow. He insisted on taking her right up to the gate of St. Mildred's, even though she assured him that she was well able to find her way to the school, she had done it dozens of times and he had never walked on the Platz in the snow. With grave misgivings, she allowed him to accompany her, but when they reached the school she could not prevail upon him to come in.
"I must get home or Andrew will worry when he arrives," the Major said. "I can't come in because you have your reputation to consider."
"Make sure you follow the road carefully," Miss Wilson instructed. "The snow can set in so heavily without warning and it is very easy to lose your way."
"Don't worry, I will be fine," he reassured her. "I will call you the minute I get in."
"I will worry," she admitted, "until you call. You don't know what it is like. Be careful, William, please."
"I will," he promised, patting her shoulder. "Go on in, Helena. And don't worry."
He waved as he set off back to his chalet, and Miss Wilson went back into the school, feeling a sense of foreboding. Even during the short walk up the path from the gate to the front door the snow had become noticeably heavier and she knew only too well how quickly a blizzard could develop. Then it became virtually impossible to find one's way, even if you were going somewhere very familiar. The Major's chalet was only about fifteen minutes walk away, but that was if you were walking in good weather. In heavy snow it would take longer and if the snow came down any faster it would be easy to pass within a few feet of the chalet without even noticing it.
Miss Wilson went miserably into her office, not wanting to see anyone. She closed the door, hung up her outdoor clothes and put her nailed boots by the door, not caring that they were making a wet mark on the carpet. She planned to sit by the telephone and wait for William to call. Once she knew that he was safe she would go and sit in the staff room and catch up with her friends whom, she admitted, she had neglected shamefully over the past week. Until she had heard from him, however, she would worry about him, hoping that he would find his way back to the Mirlhof without getting lost.
She went over to the window and looked out, noticing immediately how much darker it had become and how the snow was swirling ever faster past the window. Miss Wilson sent up a prayer for the Major's safety, wondering how she had ever agreed to walk back with him when she knew that they were in for some snow. Andrew had offered them the car keys and she had said that she was happy walking. Worse still, she had wanted to walk for purely selfish reasons. She knew that they would arrive back at the school in no time if they went in the car; walking took much longer, thereby letting her spend more time with the Major. Furthermore, she had very much enjoyed walking along, holding his arm, it had given her a feeling of belonging that she had not had for more years than she cared to remember. In some ways it reminded her of when she was young and her father had walked with her, holding her hand. It was very pleasant, after years of looking after herself, she reflected, to have someone to lean on.
Miss Wilson looked at her watch, noticing that barely ten minutes had passed since she had returned to the school. Not enough time for the Major to have reached his chalet, unless he had run all the way. Why, she wondered, hadn't she tried to memorise his phone number, then she could have called the Mirlhof and found out if he was there, or if Andrew was back and then Andrew could have taken the car and gone to look for him. Looking back to the snow, Miss Wilson noticed that it was coming down faster than ever. She could hardly see the garden now, and the storm seemed to be in for the night. All she could think about was Major Benson, trudging through the snow, cold and damp, perhaps unable to find his way, getting lost, finally falling down somewhere and…
"Stop being silly," she rebuked herself aloud. "He will be nearly home now. He will see the fence outside the chalet, because he walked along the road and he can easily walk up the path to the front door. He will go inside and call me straight away. Any moment now the phone will ring and it will be him, saying he's back."
Suddenly the phone did ring, making Miss Wilson jump. She had not really expected it to ring quite as soon as that, but she snatched up the receiver and held it to her ear. "William?" she asked eagerly.

 

#137:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 5:21 pm

Hmmmm - what is the betting it will be Joey phoning for information! And she wouldn't be easy to get rid of either! Hope I'm wrong! Thanks Fatima

 

#138:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 5:50 pm

You could have Billy instead of Bill.

Thanks, Fatima. I enjoyed Joey's reaction to Nell having her arm through William's arm and I'm glad Nell enjoyed the book of poetry.

 

#139:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 5:55 pm

*hopes desperately that it is him*

Thanks Fatima

Liz

 

#140:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 6:05 pm

Thanks Fatima for the last 2 posts.

Interesting that, despite the way she is falling under this man's spell, she still says that she couldn't imagine living anywhere else!

Is that telling me something?

Wondering just *who* is on the phone!

 

#141:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 7:29 pm

I am locking the bunnies out for the night. I have to go to bed and they just won't leave me alone!

"No, it's me, Hilda," came the familiar voice. "Is everything all right?"
"Oh, Hilda, no, it's not," Nell said, her voice unsteady, betraying her worry. "William was walking home and it's snowing so hard now and I am worried he will get lost. I don't know what to do."
If Miss Annersley was surprised to hear her normally down to earth colleague getting into such a state, she gave no sign of it as she answered calmly, "How long ago did he leave you? Where was he going?"
"We walked back from the san," Miss Wilson explained. "It started to snow and he insisted on walking me back here. Then he had to go back to the Mirlhof. He's been gone about fifteen minutes, but he said he'd call the minute he got back there. What if he's lost in the blizzard?"
"He will take a little longer than this to get there," Hilda said thoughtfully, "especially in this weather. I don't think you need to be worried yet. I am sure he will call in the next ten or fifteen minutes. I shall ring off, so he can get through, and call you back in exactly fifteen minutes. Then you'll know who it is, and not get a disappointment when you hear my voice. Don't worry, Nell."
Before Miss Wilson could answer, Hilda had hung up. Thankful for her friend's tact and thoughtfulness, Miss Wilson continued her pacing of the room. She kept on looking at her watch, hardly able to believe how time could pass so slowly. She found she swung between a certainty that the Major would be returning to his chalet even as she paced her office, and so would soon be calling her, and an equally firm belief that he was trudging wearily through the snow, miles away from the chalet, unable to find his way through the blizzard.
As she looked at her watch for the fiftieth time, the phone rang again. It was exactly fifteen minutes since Hilda had phoned, so Nell was expecting to hear her friend's voice. She was not disappointed; Hilda said, "Any news?"
"No, not a word. What shall I do?"
Miss Annersley had obviously been thinking about that for the fifteen minutes she had been waiting in her office. "At the moment there is not much you can do, Nell, except wait. Is it possible that he has got back, but forgotten to call?"
Miss Wilson took a deep breath. "Yes, I suppose so," she admitted. "He may have forgotten."
"Do you have his number?"
"No."
"I will call Jack Maynard and find out. He must have it, so that they can contact someone if Mrs. Chapman needs them. I will call you again in ten minutes. Get a cup of tea, Nell, and try to stay calm."
"Thank you, Hilda."
"Don't mention it." Again, Hilda rang off.
Realizing that Miss Annersley was probably right, and that William had just forgotten to call, Miss Wilson rang for a cup of tea. Gretel brought it promptly, along with a plate of Karen's delicious lemon biscuits. The cook at St. Mildred's was a cousin of Karen, the cook at the main branch of the Chalet School, and they were lucky that she was privy to Karen's best recipes. Miss Wilson sipped her tea and nibbled on a biscuit, but, for once, did not enjoy it. When the phone rang again, she jumped and nearly upset her tea in her lap. Once more, it was Miss Annersley, and she read the Major's number to her friend.
"I'll call him," Miss Wilson said gratefully, holding the precious number tightly.
"Please tell me what happens," said Miss Annersley. "Good bye, Nell."
Miss Wilson proceeded to dial the number she had been given. As it began to ring, she wondered what she should say when he answered. She hoped he would not be too irritated with her for calling, and she wondered what reason he would give for not calling her on arrival as he had promised. So far he had appeared so reliable and concerned for her wellbeing that it seemed out of character for him to forget to call, but maybe he thought she was over-reacting to the abrupt change in the weather.
The phone rang and rang at the other end. No one answered, even though Miss Wilson left it ringing for a good three minutes. She then redialed the number, just in case she had got it wrong the first time, but it rang and rang again. She reluctantly replaced the receiver and all the feelings of apprehension returned with a vengeance as she faced the fact that he had not called because he had not got back to the chalet.
"I must stop being a spineless jellyfish," she told herself sternly. "There is someone out in the blizzard and I have to keep a cool head." She gave a wry chuckle at the word cool. "I shall call Hilda and she can get onto the San. Maybe they have heard about him. Then I shall ask Gerhard if he can come out with me and we will go and look for him." Gerhard was a nephew of the Chalet school handyman, Gaudenz, and he was a giant of a man. He knew the Platz like the back of his hand, and would be the perfect person to go off and look for missing people in snowstorms.

 

#142:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 7:38 pm

Thanks, Fatima. I really hope William is ok.

 

#143:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 7:39 pm

*wibbles*

You can't lock them up before letting us know the Major is safe! *pouts*

*begs*

*pleads*

Thanks Fatima

Liz

 

#144:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 8:33 pm

Well at least it was such a helpful caller as Hilda and not a human question mark like Joey. And Hilda knows all about it so that she knew what she wants to say to people. HOpe that William is alright, and that Nell doesnt worry too much. Silly man William - she would have been safer on her own than he was!

Thanks Fatima

 

#145:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 12:10 am

*wibbles*

It's not fair to have a cliff quite so soon - they were only just getting to know each other!

 

#146:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 12:37 am

Oh, the poor dear - she's blaming herself already before she even knows that he's lost.
Loved these two last posts, especially the way that she can admit to herself that it is pleasant to be taken care of.

And Fatima, the whole 'Helena" thing seems to me to be very much in keeping with the fact that this is a new experience for her.

BTW, my Nanna was "Helena" and she was always known as "Nell"! Very Happy

 

#147:  Author: Kathryn, Location: Kyabram (north of Melb) PostPosted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 7:16 am

[quote="FatimaJane nodded again, and then Miss Wilson heard her murmur, "She's perfect, William."
"I know," he agreed softly. [/quote]

Why did I, when I saw the above, immediately think that Jane agreed that Miss Wilson was a perfect dupe for a devious plan that herself and her brother have thought up? Rolling Eyes

Lovely story, Fatima,

 

#148:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 10:59 am

Lovely story Fatima. Thank you. I do hope the Major is ok...and is found quickly.

Kathryn my devious mind also wondered if we all had the wrong end of the stick and there was something else Nell was perfect for... Embarassed

 

#149:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 2:14 pm

I have to admit that I did think it sounded like they had some nefarious purpose requiring Miss Wilson, but couldn't decide what else for them to say. I can put your minds at rest; they have no ulterior motives! Here's today's bit.

Hilda Annersley had obviously been sitting by the phone, waiting to hear from the Head of St. Mildred's, because she answered it before it had completed the first ring. She listened patiently as Miss Wilson asked her to call the san for information, and agreed to do so. Then she said, "You are not to go out of the school, Nell. You must not go and look for him. Stay there, please and wait by the phone."
"I can't do that," Miss Wilson replied. "Gerhard will come with me if I ask him. Can you imagine him getting lost?"
"Yes, I can," was Hilda's honest answer. "You stay there. If you won't give me your word on it, I shall call Gertrude Rider and she will stop you from going." Miss Annersley waited a moment, but Miss Wilson said nothing, unwilling to abandon her rescue plan. "Helena Wilson, give me your word," she said in the voice she usually saved for cowing recalcitrant middles.
Hearing her name, the name the Major always used to her, broke Miss Wilson's resolve. "He always calls me Helena," she said softly. "I will stay here, Hilda, you have my word. But you must make them find him."
"They will do all they can, and I will call you as soon as I hear anything. And I shall pray for him," she added. "Try to stay calm, Nell. Good bye."
Miss Wilson replaced the receiver and then lifted it again. She dialed the Major's number again, and let it ring and ring, but, as before, it remained unanswered. With a deep breath to steady herself, she got up and found her rosary in the drawer of her desk. She sat on the window seat, staring out at the swirling snow and trying to concentrate on the rosary instead of the dark fear in her heart. How long she sat and prayed, she did not know. Suddenly she was aware of a knock on the door of her office and she sprang to her feet, hoping against hope that it would be him. When she opened the door, Gertrude Rider stood there, a tray in her hands. She went into the office and put it down on the Head's desk.
"Hilda has just phoned," she said, by way of explanation. "She said you have had a bit of a shock, and that you should have some soup. She told me to make sure you ate it all."
Miss Wilson managed a smile. "Trust Hilda to be practical," she commented, starting to feel hungry as the delicious smell of the soup filled the room. "Thank you, Gertrude."
"Come and eat it while it is hot," Matron Rider instructed.
Miss Wilson sat down at the desk and picked up the s***n. The soup was delicious, a thick broth with vegetables galore in it. Just a couple of spoonfuls of the soup made her feel better able to face the agonizing wait ahead of her.
"Is there anything I can do to help?" Matron Rider asked once Nell had scraped the dish clean.
"No, I am sure Hilda has sent people out to look for him," answered Miss Wilson. "All I can do is sit and wait."
"To look for whom?" inquired Gertrude.
"Major Benson," Miss Wilson said. To her surprise, Matron Rider looked blankly at her. "He was the gentleman involved in the car accident outside the school last week." Matron Rider still looked puzzled, obviously wondering why Miss Wilson would be upset by the disappearance of a relative stranger. "Didn't Gill tell you?" she asked in surprise. "I thought she would have said something."
"No," Gertrude said, still sounding mystified. "You know Gill; she is the most discrete person I have ever met."
Remembering her suspicions, Miss Wilson felt relieved that they were unfounded, and embarrassed that she had had them in the first place. "I shall have to speak…" she said, but before she could finish her sentence the harsh jangling of the telephone had her leaping out of her seat. She snatched the receiver up and held it to her ear, hardly daring to ask who was calling.

 

#150:  Author: JoW, Location: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 4:22 pm

Oh, more please - I must know if William is safe. Poor Nell.....

 

#151:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 5:18 pm

Fatima wrote:
She snatched the receiver up and held it to her ear, hardly daring to ask who was calling.

Well if she won't I will

Who is it?

Thanks Fatima - glad I was right to have faith in William Very Happy

Liz

 

#152:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 5:35 pm

I shall put you out of your misery, since you asked so nicely!

"Helena?" William sounded very tired. "I've just got in. Are you all right?"
"Oh, William," she answered, feeling tears of relief starting to slide down her cheeks. Angry with herself for displaying such weakness, she rubbed them away with an impatient hand. "Where have you been?"
At that point, Gertrude Rider discretely withdrew.
"I am so sorry, my dear," he said contritely. "I should have listened to you. I missed the house, and the snow just came down like nothing I had ever seen before. I walked and walked and I really thought I was lost until I reached the san. That was a big shock, finding I was back where I had started from. Andrew is here, and he will drive me home."
"Are you all right?" she asked, trying to sound natural, but obviously not managing very well.
"Yes, I am fine," he replied. "What about you?"
"Yes, now that I know you are safe."
"I'm really sorry to have put you through all that," he apologized. "I had no idea what it would be like."
"It is awful when it snows like that," she agreed. "I'm just so glad that you are all right."
"You have had a dreadful time of it, haven't you," he realized. "Would you like me to come over and see you?"
"No, you should go straight home, have a hot bath and something warm to drink, and go to bed," she told him, mindful of Matron's way of dealing with those who had suffered some similar adventures. "It is the best way to deal with being thoroughly cold."
"I shall have to take your advice this time," he told her, and she knew that he was smiling. "You were right before, but I didn't listen. Now I shall do you the courtesy of bowing to your superior knowledge."
"Good," she answered, inwardly disappointed that she would not see him, just to be sure that he was as well as he said. "See you soon, William."
"Yes, you can count on that," was his prompt response. "Good bye, Helena."
"Good bye."
Miss Wilson hung up the receiver, and then put a call through to Miss Annersley. She told her friend that Major Benson had turned up at the San, tired but otherwise unscathed, and thanked her for being such a rock in a difficult time. Hilda Annersley shrugged aside the compliment, knowing that Nell would have been equally dependable if their roles had been reversed. Finally she sank down into an armchair by the fire and started to run her rosary through her fingers once more, giving thanks for William's safety. She felt drained by the worry of the evening, and the soup had done little to revive her, but she knew that there was no point in trying to get an early night, she was too keyed up and would not find it easy to get to sleep. Instead, some quiet time in her office would help her unwind and relax, and then she would sleep better.

 

#153:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 6:36 pm

Thankyou Fatima. I'm so glad she had such a firm friend as Hilda to rely upon. And that no one has heard about this through Gillian Culver! Though it would have been surprising if the did considering all I remember about her as Head Girl! And so William is cold, but safe. That is good.

 

#154:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 6:47 pm

awww I'm so glad he's okay - it's lovely to see how emotional she's been. Although obviously I feel sorry for it's nice to see how much she cares.

 

#155:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 8:59 pm

Phew!

So glad he's safe - now make sure Andrew's careful driving him home won't you

Thanks Fatima

Liz

 

#156:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 11:07 pm

Thanks, Fatima. I'm glad William's safe and that Nell was able to trust in God at this time.

 

#157:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 1:18 am

Thank you Fatima. So good to know he's safe - and now he realises that she does know what she's talking about. Don't be silly again, William! Very Happy

 

#158:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 7:38 am

Thanks, Fatima. Lovely.

 

#159:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 3:51 pm

Thank you for all the comments. Here we go again...

She gazed into the firelight, automatically working her way through the rosary, feeling herself start to unwind. She sat there for a long while, until she became aware of a knocking at the door. Hoping that she did not look too dishevelled after the traumatic time she had just had, she stood up and called, "Come in!" in her most Head Mistress like tones. Thankful that it was not going to be a crowd of naughty middles who had come to trouble her, Miss Wilson went to stand behind her desk. The door opened and Gretel appeared.
"Yes, Gretel, what is it?" she asked the maid.
"There's a gentleman to see you, Madame," Gretel responded.
Miss Wilson wondered if Hilda Annersley had asked one of the doctors from the San to come and check up on her, but before she could ask the identity of the gentleman, Major Benson had followed the maid into the room. Gretel withdrew, closing the door behind her.
Afterwards, Miss Wilson never knew quite how it happened. One minute she was standing behind her desk, the next she was in Major Benson's arms, her face buried against his shoulder. He held her tightly as he apologised, "I never seem to do as you suggest, do I? I'm sorry I don't listen to you, Helena."
"That's all right," she said, half laughing and half crying. She lifted her face to his and he felt in his pocket for his handkerchief. "Thank you," she said as he pressed it into her hand. "I'm sorry to make such an exhibition of myself."
"Not at all," he told her. "I am the one who should be apologising, not you. I can't believe I put you through that. You sounded so forlorn on the phone that I had to come over and see that you were really all right. I can't stop long, because Andrew is outside in the car. It's not snowing as hard now, so I think we'll find our way home."
"I hope so," she replied fervently. "I don't think I could deal with another moment of stress tonight."
"You won't have to," he reassured her. "It really is clearing up out there. Now, tomorrow is your afternoon off, isn't it? What shall we do?"
"I don't know," she answered. "I really should stay here and get some work done, but I know you will manage to tempt me away."
"I certainly hope I can," he said with a laugh. "I don't want to go for a walk in the snow, but I will be happy with whatever else you suggest. I will be here at midday, if that is all right for you?"
"Yes," she agreed happily. "It is very much all right."
"Good. Now, I really should go, so I can have that hot bath you suggested." He looked down at her for a long moment and then he held her closer and kissed her cheek. With a smile at the flustered look he had brought to her face, he let her go. "See you tomorrow."
"Good bye," she answered, aware of colour flooding her face. She watched him leave, and then sat down hurriedly, hardly able to believe what had just happened.

 

#160:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 4:19 pm

Thanks, Fatima. I love the romance that is developing between the two of them.

 

#161:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 4:54 pm

*sniff* Lovely thanks Fatima

 

#162:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 5:02 pm

Awwwwwwwwwwww!

Luffly Very Happy

Thanks Fatima

Liz

 

#163:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 5:05 pm

A quick apology to all Gill Culver fans! Hopefully she won't be looking so bad after this! And I must also apologise for taking liberties with the location of places in Switzerland. I am not too sure where the Gornetz Platz is supposed to be, but I think I remember Interlaken being nearby, hence the visit to that town. I have picked another place this time, which sounds familiar and which may or may not be close to the Platz. If it is a Fatimaism, please don't be too scathing!!

After a surprisingly good night's sleep, Miss Wilson got up on Monday morning feeling very cheerful. She felt business-like and efficient, so she put in an hour's marking before frühstück. She had also resolved to talk to Gill Culver, so she dashed back to her office before the start of the first class of the morning in order to catch her as she arrived to do her work.
"Would you come into my office for a moment," she asked, as Gill crossed her own office to her desk.
Gill looked anxious, still not entirely relaxed with the Head Mistress. "Of course, Miss Wilson," she answered, every inch the deferential secretary.
Miss Wilson perched on the corner of her desk and waved Gill to a chair. "I owe you an apology," she said, coming straight to the point. "I have been suspecting you of gossiping, and I realize now that you would never gossip. I am so sorry."
Gill looked puzzled, not really sure to what the Head was referring. "I don't like to gossip," she said, "especially about work."
"I know. I saw you looking at the note I received last week, and thought you would discuss it with the rest of the staff. I know now that I was wrong to think you would do anything of the sort."
"Of course not," Gill said, remembering the note that had come with the flowers.
"Major Benson is likely to come here from time to time," Miss Wilson informed her secretary, "and he may phone as well."
"I shall transfer his calls straight to you, then," Gill suggested.
"Thank you, Gill," said Miss Wilson. "He's a friend of mine."
"That's very good news," Gill said, smiling suddenly. "I'm really pleased for you, Miss Wilson."
Hoping that she did not look as embarrassed as she felt, Miss Wilson met Gill's gaze and smiled back. "Thank you, Gill. Now, I had better dash off to my class. I shall see you at break."
Miss Wilson went to teach her classes and found that she enjoyed them enormously. It was not that she did not usually enjoy teaching, but she was in such a good mood that she found the lessons interesting and the girls interested. The time flew past, and before she knew it, she was returning to her office with another pile of marking. "Though goodness knows when I shall have time to do it," she said to herself. She added it to the substantial pile on her desk and then completely ignored it. Instead she found her bag and her coat and made her hair tidy, ready for the arrival of Major Benson. She had given some thought to what they should do that afternoon, and had decided that he would enjoy seeing the Staubbach Falls, which were not too far away, but would make a pleasant afternoon out.

 

#164:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 5:32 pm

Thanks, Fatima. I'm not very good at knowing the names of places so I'm happy with the place you've chosen. I haven't thought Gillian has looked bad in this story, either.

 

#165:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 8:18 pm

Lots of lovely posts to catch up on - so glad for Nell that it was Hilda on the phone - that she didn't have to face Joey when so worried about the Major.

Thanks Fatima.

 

#166:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 12:20 am

Thank you Fatima! Now, I'm sure that they are going to have a lovely afternoon....

 

#167:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 9:59 am

Thank you Fatima. So lovely.

 

#168:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 12:17 pm

Thanks Fatima

Hope they have a lovely afternoon together

Liz

 

#169:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 4:55 pm

It's the weekend here - yay! Here's some more.....

Major Benson arrived at exactly midday. Gill Culver showed him into the Head's office with a smile at Miss Wilson. For a moment, remembering the previous evening, Miss Wilson felt rather awkward, but Major Benson soon put her at her ease.
"Hello, Helena," he said cheerfully, coming over to her and taking both of her hands in his. "You are a genius."
"Why?" she demanded, unable to account for his overestimation of her intelligence.
"I had a hot bath and a warm drink just as you told me to," he explained, "and went to bed straight afterwards. This morning, I feel fine!"
Miss Wilson laughed. "I am so glad you have finally realized that you should listen to me!" she said. "I am ready to go out and I know the perfect place to visit."
"You see, I said you were a genius," he remarked. "Where shall we go?"
I thought we could go to the Staubbach falls," she answered. "It's not far away, and they are beautiful. They should be especially beautiful in this weather," she added, mindful of the snow on the ground. "The road there is good, so we should get there safely. I know you didn't want to walk in the snow, but it won't be a long walk."
"Oh, I think I can manage a walk," he assured her. "Helena, I'm so happy that I would go anywhere with you today and walk ten miles if you want me to."
"I feel happy, too," she confessed. "I have been in such a good mood today, and I really enjoyed my classes."
"You know why, don't you?" he asked, suddenly serious.
"Why what?"
"Why we are both in such a good mood today?"
Miss Wilson shook her head. "Because you got back safely yesterday?" she hazarded a guess.
"No," he said slowly, "Or, at least, not only because of that. It's because there's something happening between us. I have never been this happy before, and I know it is all because I can spend time with you. I just want to be with you all the time, each day." He pulled her closer, then he leaned down and lightly kissed her. "I can't stop thinking about you," he went on. "I can hardly believe what is happening to me. I hope you feel something similar." Rendered speechless, Miss Wilson could only just nod at him. Her wordless response amused him, but he did not pursue the subject further, suggesting instead that they leave.
Miss Wilson readily agreed, hoping that she could regain her usual composure on the journey to the falls. As they passed through the outer office, Gill Culver wished them a pleasant afternoon. They went out to the Major's car and Miss Wilson explained the route they would need to take to get to the Staubbach falls. The Major drove carefully, as the roads were still icy in places, and as Miss Wilson's poise returned, she told him all about the area they were going to visit. The Lauterbrunnen valley, where both the Staubbach falls and the Trümmelbach falls were located, was famous for its scenery and Miss Wilson knew that the falls were an impressive sight. She directed the Major all the way to the valley, and they finally managed to park the car near the falls. They got out and went for a walk round the area, thankful for the heavy nailed boots they were wearing. The falls themselves were awe inspiring, falling from such a height into the enchanted snow covered valley, and Miss Wilson was very satisfied with her choice for the trip. Major Benson was equally impressed, and wished that they could have brought Jane with them.
"She would love it here," he said as they returned to the car. "It's so beautiful and unspoiled. Is there somewhere we can have something to eat? I'm famished."
"Yes, there is a quaint little restaurant at the other end of the village," Miss Wilson remembered, realizing that she felt decidedly hungry as well. They walked through the village and found that the restaurant was open, so they went in for their meal. It was, as Miss Wilson had recalled, a very quaint place, evidently very old, with the dark wood beams and heavy peasant furniture. The food was excellent, and they enjoyed a good meal. Finally, much to their regret, it was time to begin the drive back to the Gornetz Platz.

 

#170:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 5:05 pm

What a wonderful afternoon!

Thanks Fatima Very Happy

Liz

 

#171:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 6:50 pm

Once he had manoeuvred the car out of the parking space, the Major said, "It's Easter in a couple of weeks, Helena. Do you have a holiday then?"
"Yes," she realized. "The girls go home at the end of the week. I have been so busy that I hadn't noticed how close it was. All of the girls go home for Easter, and the school will be closed for three weeks."
"What will you do while the school is closed?" he asked, voicing the question that was worrying him. "Will you go back to England?"
"No, I hadn't planned to," she answered. "Hilda, Miss Annersley that is, from the other part of the school, did wonder if we should go to Italy and have a week's holiday by Lake Maggiore. We often go away together if we are not on duty during the holiday." Miss Wilson took a deep breath, knowing that her next words would commit her to the Major, at least for the holiday. "I wonder if I might stay on the Platz, though," she said softly. "I'm not sure I want to go to Italy, after all."
"I don't want you to go," he said honestly. "I can't bear the thought of you being away for a week, Helena. I have to take Andrew to Berne tomorrow for his flight, so I won't have time to come over and visit you and I am not looking forward to it. We haven't known each other long, but I feel as if I have known you forever. Does that make any sense at all?" he asked, with a laugh.
"Yes, it does, actually," she said, laughing with him. "William, all this is very new to me."
"It's all very new to me, too," he said, "but I have to say that I am enjoying it!"
"So am I." Miss Wilson fell silent, her mind busy reflecting on all that they had said, and, more importantly, on all that had not yet been said between them. As they drove back through the gathering darkness, she realized that she had fallen in love with the Major and that she was suddenly very vulnerable. Sooner or later he would want to go back to England, to be with his family, while she wanted to stay in Switzerland and work at St. Mildred's. She had put a lot of effort into making the finishing branch of the Chalet School successful and she hoped to spend many more years there, building up its reputation and being involved in the process of education. At the moment, William was enjoying himself in Switzerland, but what would he do if he was stuck on the Platz away from his sister and nephews?
"You are very quiet," he observed, as they neared the Gornetz Platz once again. "I hope I haven't upset you, Helena?"
"No, you have not upset me," she assured him. "I am feeling a little tired, that's all."
Major Benson slowed the car to enable him to get round a particularly tight bend in the road then he pushed the accelerator to the floor as the road climbed steeply. Once he had reached the top of the rise, he was able to give more attention to the conversation again. "Once Andrew has gone, I shall be very lonely," he told her. "I wonder if you would like to come and visit me at the Mirlhof. You could come over for lunch, and bring your work if you have a lot to do, and I would cook for you and bring you coffee while you work."
"I would like that very much," she agreed. "I am very busy on Wednesday, but I have a lighter day on Thursday. I could come over for lunch."
"That would be lovely. How will I wait until Thursday to see you, though?" He pulled up outside St. Mildred's, but did not get out straight away. "Helena, you will call me if you want anything, won't you?" he asked earnestly. "I don't like leaving you for so long."
"I will call you," she promised. "I have your number now; Hilda got it for me when we thought you were lost. Good bye, William. Wish Andrew a safe journey, won't you."
"I will walk you to your door," he said, getting out of the car and taking her arm to see her safely up the path. "Good bye, Helena," he said, as she got out the key and unlocked the front door. He glanced around quickly, gave her a kiss, and went back to the car. Once she had watched him drive away, she went inside and changed her outdoor clothes, before going back to being Miss Wilson, efficient Head Mistress.

 

#172:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 6:58 pm

Thanks, Fatima. I'm glad William and Helena have admitted their feelings for each other. I really hope the relationship works out.

 

#173:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 7:12 pm

Lovely date, and that they'vce both admitted their feelings - but even in the midst of that Nell still has time to wonder about the clash between her life in Switzerland and her life with William.

Thanks Fatima.

 

#174:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 8:04 pm

awww how lovely. I did love that line about Nell ignoring the marking on her desk!

Thank you Fatima, I'm looking forwards to more

 

#175:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 9:04 pm

Thanks Fatima

*sighs a happy sigh* Smile

Liz

 

#176:  Author: Róisín, Location: Galway, Eire PostPosted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 9:25 pm

Fatima, this is so wonderful! I was having a crap day, then I settled down with icecream and found this, and it's all cosy and great. Cool

Everything you write is so realistic and welldrawn - Nell wondering about the longdistance factor immediately transported me back to the start of my own relationship.

Thanks so much - keep it coming! Wink

 

#177:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 12:18 am

This was lovely, Fatima; I 'm so pleased that they had such a happy afternoon, and that Major Benson has learned that Nell should be listened to...they will sort something out won't they??!

 

#178:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 4:05 am

Good morning! Thank you for all your comments, I am so glad you are enjoying it, because I am so enjoying writing it.

Andrew Chapman duly left Switzerland on Tuesday, and Miss Wilson had a very busy day, so she had no time to miss the Major while he was travelling to Berne and back. She worked with all her usual energy, and a bit more beside, eager to get on top of everything before the end of term. She felt that it had rather sneaked up on her, mainly because she had been distracted by her newly discovered feelings for Major Benson. She marked stacks of exercise books and returned them to their owners, she arranged for the dispatch of all the end of term reports, she drew up the duty rotas for the escorting of the girls to and from various European centres and in between all this, still found time to read some of the Major's poetry book and have a chat with Hilda Annersley. She found, however, that she had put off calling Jo Maynard, mainly because she did not want to go to dinner there if there was the slightest chance of going somewhere with Major Benson instead. Her free time was so limited that she felt it would be wasteful to commit a whole free evening to a boring dinner with some dull doctors when she could be indulging in scintillating conversation with William.
On Wednesday, once she had finished her classes for the morning, Miss Wilson returned to her office and found that Major Benson had called. Feeling nervous at the thought of phoning him, she called him back and caught him just as he was on his way to visit Jane. He told her that he had received a visit from Mrs. Maynard that morning, and that she had cordially invited him to her dinner party on Saturday evening. She had also done her best to extract all the necessary background information to Miss Wilson's visit to the san the previous weekend, but he was very good at avoiding questions he did not want to answer, thanks to his years in S.O.E. Once he had rung off, Miss Wilson called Jo, to accept the invitation, as she had promised William she would do. As it was only break time, and Miss Wilson had another class to teach, she could not be on the phone for long, so Jo had to continue to control her curiosity about Miss Wilson's new friend.
On Thursday Miss Wilson duly packed some of the letters she needed to answer into her briefcase and set off to the Mirlhof. The weather had obviously regretted its madness of the weekend, and the thaw had set in in earnest. The sun was shining brightly and it was clear to Miss Wilson's experienced eye that they had seen the last of the snow for the year. She found the walk to the Mirlhof very pleasant, and she began to look forward to the Easter holidays, hoping that she would be able to do some walking and enjoy the sight of spring arriving.

 

#179:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 4:31 am

Poor Joey, unable to retrieve all the information she wants!! Laughing

Thanks Fatima.

 

#180:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 7:09 am

Shocked DULL doctors?!! Shocked Shocked Laughing

Thanks Fatima - looking forward to seeing how the dinner party goes

Liz

 

#181:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 7:20 am

Don't you just love weekends?!

When she arrived at the Mirlhof, she began to feel nervous. For the first time she would be with the Major in his own home, and it felt as though she would be taking their relationship onto a different level. She rang the doorbell and the Major answered it very promptly. He had evidently been awaiting her arrival impatiently, and he seemed thrilled to see her. She went in, noticing firstly how clean and tidy the chalet was, and then the delicious smell of cooking coming from the kitchen. Major Benson took her briefcase and her coat and put them away for her.
"I am so glad you are here," he said, closing the cupboard door and turning to her. "I've missed you so much these last two days." She smiled at him, feeling suddenly shy, so he crossed the room to her side and took her hand. "Let me show you around," he suggested. "I want you to feel at home here, because I hope to see you here a lot now."
He took her to the kitchen and proudly showed her the chicken he was roasting for their dinner then he opened the back door so that he could show her the garden. It was not large, but it had been well planned and would be lovely once the weather was nice enough to sit outside. The chalet was small, with just the kitchen and living room and a tiny dining room downstairs. Major Benson had cleared the dining room, so that Miss Wilson could sit at the table and work if she wanted to. It opened off of the kitchen, so they would be within earshot of one another and could talk while he cooked and she wrote her letters.
"The dinner should be ready in about half an hour," he informed her. "If you like, I could make you some coffee, or I have some rather fine sherry if you prefer."
"The sherry sounds lovely," she said, "but as I have to return to school, I think I should settle for coffee."
"Sit down, then, and I'll go and make it."
"I'll come and help you," she said, but he refused to allow her to help.
"You are my guest," he told her firmly. "Sit down and do your work and I will get the dinner."
Meekly Miss Wilson sat down and opened her briefcase. She started writing a reply to the letter she had received regarding the possibility of extra music lessons for a prospective pupil, assuring the parents that the school was well equipped to deal with musical students. Major Benson brought her a cup of coffee, but did not interrupt her. He was busy in the kitchen, getting the vegetables on and making sure that the potatoes were roasting nicely. Having lived by himself for many years, he was a good cook, and actually enjoyed having the time to spend in the kitchen. It was particularly perfect to be in the kitchen preparing a meal to share with someone special, and seeing Miss Wilson's head bent over her work made him feel immeasurably happy. He gave the gravy another stir then leaned against the worktop to drink his coffee, watching his visitor as she worked. She finished one letter, then took another sheet of paper from the pad in her briefcase and re-read the next letter she wished to answer. Before she began, she glanced up and caught him watching her.
"Are you sure you don't want me to help you?" she asked.
"Don't you trust my cooking?" he wondered, with a grin. "I can promise you it is good. You can wash up afterwards if you really want to do something useful."
"I expect I will have to rush back to school afterwards," she retorted. "I hate washing up!"
"Drink up your coffee before it gets cold," he instructed, turning back to his pots and pans.
Miss Wilson did as he asked, and found that he made an excellent cup of coffee. She drained the cup, and returned to her letter, this time to a lady who wished to apply for a post at St. Mildred's. She explained that a company in England dealt with applications, and asked the lady to arrange an interview with them, as she sounded very well qualified for a post in the school. As she finished that letter, Major Benson came back to the dining room to set the table for lunch.
Very soon they were sitting down together and Miss Wilson discovered that William had not been wrong when he had said he was a good cook. He had served a delicious meal, with a fresh fruit salad to follow the roast chicken and afterwards, he refused to let her wash up.
"I can do it when you have gone," he told her. "I have nothing better to do."
"If I come over again, you must let me help you more," she said firmly. "It's not fair for you to do everything."
"What do you mean, if?" he demanded. "You must come again." He finished making two more cups of coffee and they took them into the sitting room. "What time do you have to go?" he asked.
Miss Wilson glanced at her watch. "I have a class in an hour," she said, "so I shall have to leave in about twenty minutes. I will need to get my books ready," she explained. "It's double science, and I have some really bright students this year. I need to be prepared."
'I understand," he said, but he still sounded regretful. "It has been so lovely having you here that I don't want you to go."
Miss Wilson patted his hand, and said, "I will come again, perhaps at the weekend."
He sighed. "I can't wait for you to be on holiday," he told her. "You will be able to come over every day then."
Miss Wilson laughed. "I will," she agreed. "Will you go to the San this afternoon?"
"Yes, James will be up and about and I'll take him down to see Jane. He is doing so well now that they think he may come home next week. After that, he'll be heading back to England in no time. Jane is going to be so sad to see him go."
"I would like to visit her again," Miss Wilson said. "How is she this week?"
"Oh, she has good days and not so good days," he answered. "I am hoping that today will be a good day."
They finished their coffee and Miss Wilson went to pack up her papers. She felt rather guilty leaving William a pile of washing up to do, but he did not seem to mind, so she thanked him for a lovely dinner and let him help her on with her coat. They said goodbye and Miss Wilson set off down the road to St. Mildred's, feeling very relaxed after such a lovely lunch. As she walked, she found herself reflecting on the scenes of domesticity that she had just shared with the Major, and how peaceful it had been. They had done nothing out of the ordinary, yet it had been so enjoyable. Her step light, Miss Wilson walked up the path to St. Mildred's, and went about her afternoon's work feeling refreshed.

 

#182:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 7:32 am

Thanks Fatima

He cooks and washes up too Very Happy

*wants a William*

Liz

 

#183:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 9:13 am

Lovely. Thank you Fatima.

 

#184:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 9:18 am

The bunnies are being a bit frivolous this morning. And every time I write about the doctors, all I can think of are the infamous doctors from Mia's fabulous Chalet Street Comp drabble!

Jo Maynard spent Friday shopping for her dinner party and Saturday busy in the kitchen with her faithful factotum, Anna, preparing the food. She was still pondering the mysterious affair of Miss Wilson and Major Benson, and hoped very much to get some answers at her dinner that evening. It was not that she was curious, she assured herself, merely that she took an interest in the doings of her friends and wished to share their happiness as well as their sorrows. If Miss Wilson was going to be experiencing happiness, then it was only right that she, that lady's very old friend, should be on hand to congratulate her. And vet the cause of that happiness.
Jo had everything ready by seven, and so left Anna in the kitchen to oversee the last details of the sumptuous meal she had planned, while she went off upstairs to change and be ready to greet her guests. Jo liked nothing more than being the hostess with the mostess.
Meanwhile, at St. Mildred's, Miss Wilson was also getting ready for the dinner. She had dressed and was brushing out her hair, thinking about spending the evening at Freudesheim. She was a little nervous of Jo's inquisitiveness, but was eager to introduce William to Miss Annersley. She had already ascertained from that lady that she would be attending the dinner, despite having no interest in the ancient doctors that Jo kept producing for her. However, the good food and pleasant company of Rosalie, Gwynneth and Nell herself was always enough to persuade Hilda to attend. And, as long as she was in the right mood, Jo herself was wonderful company and a perfect hostess. It was only when she seemed determined to make everyone else feel inferior for not being married with at least a dozen children that the Chalet School staff sought to avoid her.
Miss Wilson had arranged to walk to the Mirlhof, where she would meet Major Benson, and they would then walk over to Freudesheim together. She set off from St. Mildred's at just after seven, and when she reached the Mirlhof she found Major Benson ready and waiting for her. They set off together along the road to Freudesheim and the Chalet School, and while they walked, Miss Wilson explained a little about Jo and her infamous dinners.
"Jo is terribly proud of being the wife of an eminent doctor and mother of a long family," she said. "She does both things very well and gets a lot of satisfaction from them both. But she sees her friends here, Hilda, Rosalie Dene, who is Hilda's secretary, the school's matron Gwynneth Lloyd and myself and wishes we could share the same marital bliss, if not the lengthy family. When visiting doctors come to the San, she always has a dinner and introduces them to us." Miss Wilson was puzzled by the Major's lack of response to her explanation, so she turned to look at him. To her surprise, she found that he was doing his best not to laugh. "What is so funny?" she demanded.
Major Benson gave up the struggle to contain his mirth and laughed aloud. Miss Wilson became infected with the hilarity he saw in the situation and laughed as well, and they continued the walk to Freudesheim in high good humour. "I am so glad you never gave in to the temptation of all these eligible bachelors," Major Benson finally managed to say.
"But we never admit that we know what she is up to," Miss Wilson warned him. "We let her think that we are her oldest friends and we are always happy enough to join her dinner parties to make up numbers and to save her from having to listen to medical talk all evening without anyone to distract her."
"I shall play along with that," he promised.

 

#185:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 9:25 am

*g* Great! Thank you Fatima!

 

#186:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 9:26 am

Thanks, Fatima. I'm glad William has been invited to the dinner party, I enjoyed hearing about Nell's letters and I'm looking forward to seeing the dinner party.

 

#187:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 11:50 am

*giggles at Jo's matchmaking dinner parties*

Thanks Fatima

Liz

 

#188:  Author: Róisín, Location: Galway, Eire PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 12:28 pm

Hurrah! More of this excellent story Very Happy

 

#189:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 1:56 pm

I had a few problems with matey, who seemed determined to get drunk and misbehave. I hope I have sorted her out now!

They reached the gate at Freudesheim at five to eight, and met the three ladies from the Chalet School as they came through the gate that led directly to Freudesheim from the school grounds. Miss Annersley was the first to greet Miss Wilson, and then she looked expectantly at her friend.
"Hilda, this is Major Benson." Miss Wilson began the introductions. "William, these are my old friends, Hilda Annersley, Rosalie Dene and Gwynneth Lloyd."
"A little less of the old, please, Nell," Rosalie Dene chided with a laugh. "It's nice to meet you, Major Benson. You have been the talk of the Platz for the way you managed to crash your car into the wall of St. Mildred's."
"I'm not guilty there," he told her with a smile. "That was my nephew's doing."
"How is he now?" Miss Annersley enquired. "I hear he was in the San, too."
"Oh, he is much better, thank you. He should be out in a few days time."
Miss Wilson rang the doorbell and then Joey was opening the door and welcoming them into her home. "Hello everyone," she said in her breeziest fashion. "Oh, you have all come together." She shot a significant look at Miss Wilson and the Major, but made no further comment. "The doctors have arrived and are all talking treatments and drugs and what have you. Come on in. Put your coats in here," she went on, opening the door of an enormous walk-in cupboard that was already full of coats and boots and a variety of other things, some of which you would not normally find in a hall cupboard.
They obediently hung up their coats and then Jo led them into the Salon. The doctors were sitting together at one end, obviously in the middle of a very serious discussion with Jack Maynard, so the Chalet contingent seated themselves together and Jo offered them some sherry. Miss Annersley squeezed herself onto the settee beside Miss Wilson and whispered to her friend, "He seems nice."
Miss Wilson nodded and accepted a glass of sherry. "Nicer than them, anyhow," she whispered back, glancing down at the group of doctors.
"Much," said Miss Annersley with a chuckle. "Thank you, Jo," she added, as Jo passed her glass to her. "Are they very dull this time?"
Gwynneth Lloyd coughed, mainly to hide her desire to laugh at her friend's comment.
"No, the tall one is actually quite amusing," Jo told them, managing to keep her voice low. "He is a paediatric specialist. The bald one is rather boring. He's incredibly brilliant, though, so Jack says. He's researching some revolutionary new drug." She sat down on the edge of a nearby chair and smiled at her friends. "I think we'll eat in about fifteen minutes. How are you, Major Benson? I hear you had a rather nasty experience last weekend?"
William, sitting on the other side of Miss Wilson, had been listening to their comments in amusement. "Yes, I did have rather a long walk," he agreed. "But I felt no ill effects from it thanks to a hot bath, warm drink and bed straight away."
"Just what I always prescribed for you, Jo," Gwynneth put in. "Have you heard about Jo's mad adventures, Major Benson?"
Joey laughed, not a mite abashed by Gwynneth's comments. "I did get into some scrapes, didn't I?" she agreed complacently. "We won't bore you with them now, though. I visited Mrs. Chapman yesterday, Major Benson."
"She did say she'd seen you," he replied. "It's very kind of you to go and see her, Mrs. Maynard."
"Not at all," said Jo. "Please call me Jo. Even after all these years and all these children, it still feels funny to hear myself called Mrs. Maynard in my own home."
Before Major Benson could make any comment, Anna came in, and suggested that they go to the dining room, or speisesaal as they called it in German, as dinner would shortly be served. Jo got up and crossed to tell her husband that they should move into the next room, and so the doctors abandoned their serious discussion and went over to be introduced to Jo's friends.
When they got into the dining room, Miss Wilson found that she was to be sitting between the boring bald doctor, who was called Frank Thompson, and a much younger man, namely Dr. Brian Colman. Fortunately, Major Benson was seated opposite her, with Miss Annersley on one side of him and Gwynneth Lloyd on the other. Rosalie was at the other end of the table, in the company of Dr. Martin Matthews, the tall and amusing one. Miss Annersley leaned across the table and whispered to Nell, "She always gets the best ones!"
Gwynneth nearly choked on her second glass of sherry. "That's true," she agreed. "Major Benson, thank goodness you are not a doctor!"
Anna came in with a trolley filled with dishes of vegetables and started to put plates of Wiener schnitzel down in front of all the guests. Very soon everyone had a loaded plate before them and conversation languished for a while as they ate. Anna's cooking was exceptional, and she always excelled herself when producing traditionally Austrian dishes. Many were the compliments directed at the chef by Jo's guests, especially when desert – apfelstrudel – was served. Miss Wilson enjoyed her meal, mainly because she was able to ignore the two doctors and talk to William. Gwynneth, by now on her fourth glass of sherry, entertained both of the doctors, leaving Hilda the opportunity of talking to Major Benson and learning a little more about him.
Major Benson was also enjoying himself, although he had not expected to. He had not warmed to Jo's effusive friendship, but he was enjoying sitting opposite Miss Wilson and conversing with her and Hilda Annersley. Once they had all finished eating, Jo led them back to the salon, where Anna served coffee and mints. Major Benson was drawn into conversation with Jack Maynard, and the fourth doctor, Harold Anderson, who was an expert on lung infections, particularly tuberculosis. He had visited Jane Chapman whilst he was at the San, and was prepared to discuss her with her brother.
Miss Wilson sat again on the settee with Hilda, and watched as Jo skilfully settled Rosalie and Gwynneth with the remaining doctors. "I like your Major very much," Hilda told Miss Wilson. "He's very nice."
Miss Wilson allowed her gaze to wander across the room to where William was standing. He looked across at her and smiled, sending her a look that told Miss Annersley everything she had suspected was true. "I'm glad you like him," Miss Wilson replied.
Jo then came over and sat down with the two Head Mistresses. "It's going well," she observed, not specifying what 'it' was. "Major Benson seems to be very friendly, Nell."
Miss Wilson realized that the moment of interrogation had arrived. "Yes, he's very pleasant."
"His sister is so sweet. You have been to visit her, haven't you, Nell?"
"Yes, I went last weekend."
"I didn't realize you knew her."
"I didn't, until last weekend."
Hilda smiled, enjoying the battle of wits. Jo was determined to extract all interesting information from Miss Wilson, but Miss Wilson was equally determined to make it very difficult for her.
"So what is going on?" Jo gave up all attempts at subtlety and went straight to the heart of the matter. "It seems as though you and Major Benson have seen a lot of one another."
"Yes, we have," Miss Wilson admitted.
Hilda came to her friend's rescue. "Jo, you are a human question mark," she rebuked her. "If Nell thought that there was anything you should know, she would tell you."
Jo did not look much disconcerted by Miss Annersley's comment. "I only want to know if I should be out shopping for a new hat," she complained lightly. "You do realize that you have no future with him, though, Nell? How can you be with a man called Bill? Bill and Bill isn't exactly the most perfect name for a couple, is it?"
Fortunately, Miss Wilson saw the twinkle in Jo's dark eyes and knew that she was only teasing. "His name is William," she informed Jo with dignity. "Jo, if there is anything to tell, I shall tell you. As I have only known him for a fortnight there is nothing to tell."
Jo did look ashamed at that. "I'm sorry, Nell," she said sincerely. "I have just been so surprised – pleasantly surprised I should say – to see you looking so happy. I really hope it all works out for you. If anyone deserves to be swept off her feet by a solid lump of comfort it is you."
"Thank you, Jo," answered Miss Wilson. "Now, how about another cup of Anna's delectable coffee?"
Jo went to pour more coffee and Hilda turned to her friend. "Very nicely done," she observed. "She'll leave you alone now. And here comes your Major."

 

#190:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 2:21 pm

Loved the interplay between the three of them at the end there, Fatima. Laughing

Thank you.

 

#191:  Author: Róisín, Location: Galway, Eire PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 5:55 pm

Am just loving this Fatima. *crosses fingers that it'll work out and Jo will be shopping for a new hat soon* Dinner sounded luffly altogether!

 

#192:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 6:49 pm

Think you should have allowed Matey another sherry or two. Glad that the Major and Hilda approve of each other - think Nell would have been worried if they didn't - love her responses to Jo's prying.

Thanks Fatima.

 

#193:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 7:25 pm

Major Benson sat down in the space so recently occupied by Jo. "Dr. Anderson is very pleased with Jane's progress," he said happily. "He says that she is responding to her treatment very well. The ups and downs are to be expected, but overall her progress is definitely good."
Miss Wilson squeezed his hand. "I am glad to hear it," she said warmly. "But I am not surprised. The San has an excellent record of improving the health of those who get there in time."
Jo handed Miss Wilson a second cup of coffee, then Miss Annersley distracted her hostess, leaving Miss Wilson and Major Benson alone for a while.
"What are you doing tomorrow, Helena?" he asked her. "I was wondering if you were free again in the afternoon."
"I could be," she told him. "It's up to you to tempt me to be free!"
He smiled at her. "I'll cook you dinner," he said, "and wash up afterwards!"
Miss Wilson laughed, feeling much more relaxed now that she had had the dreaded discussion with Joey. "You certainly know the way to a woman's heart," she told him.
Major Benson was suddenly serious. "I hope so," he said. "Will you come?"
Miss Wilson met his gaze and the look she saw in his eyes took her breath away. She knew in that moment that she would not need to worry about how he felt, because she saw it in his eyes. He had fallen deeply in love with her, and she hoped he realized that she felt the same about him. For a long minute the room seemed to stand still around them and the sounds of the other guests' conversations faded away. The only reality at that moment was the unspoken dialogue between them.
"Oh, Helena," he said tenderly, bringing the world back up to speed once again.
"I'll come," she said softly.
"Can we leave now?" he asked her. "I really need to go for a walk in the moonlight."
"Yes," she agreed. "That would be perfect."
They stood up together and took their leave of Jo and Jack. They walked down the front steps of Freudesheim and William took Helena by the hand. It was a beautiful evening, clear and crisp, with a million stars sparkling in the sky, and Miss Wilson knew that she would remember it for the rest of her days.
"Helena, I've been thinking," he said at last.
"About what?"
"Us."
Major Benson stopped walking and turned her to face him. "It's been two weeks and a day since we met," he reminded her.
"Yes, it has."
"I know that it's not long, but I just feel that I have known you forever. I hope you don't think that I am being premature, but I have to ask. Helena, will you marry me?" Whatever Miss Wilson had been expecting, it was not that. "You don't have to answer me now," he assured her, seeing that he had caught her right off balance. "Take your time. All I ask is that you think about it."

 

#194:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 7:32 pm

Oooohhhh! A wonderful cliff.

What will she say??

Excellent - thanks Fatima. Laughing

 

#195:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 9:26 pm

How beautifully romantic

Thanks Fatima

Liz

 

#196:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 9:32 pm

Thanks, Liz. It is totally and utterly right that they get married. I'm glad all the women approve of William. What about matchmaking Rosalie and the doctor next please? Laughing

 

#197:  Author: Róisín, Location: Galway, Eire PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 9:56 pm

*sigh* This gets better and better ... Smile

 

#198:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 11:58 pm

Well!! I have read the last four posts all at once and they are lovely. The humour of Jo's efforts for her friends - and their comments about what she is up to was a splendid counterpoise to the sweet seriousness of William and Helena. And I love his proposal - stars, moonlight, romantic declaration. Sigh.... Very Happy

He is perfect... Very Happy

 

#199:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Sat Sep 17, 2005 3:27 am

Chair wrote:
What about matchmaking Rosalie and the doctor next please?


Laughing Am I allowed to marry them all off? Laughing

 

#200:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Sat Sep 17, 2005 4:52 am

I won't keep you in suspense any longer....

Miss Wilson reached for his hand again, and they walked on slowly. "I will think, William," she promised. "But I just want to tell you that I feel the same. It is as though we have known each other for years. I'm no expert, but I think it has something to do with falling in love."
"That is the conclusion I had come to as well," he said. "I think I have been searching for you for years, and now I have found you it seems silly to wait just because it is expected. Why wait any longer when I have already waited years for you?"
They walked on, in no hurry to reach their destinations. As they walked, Miss Wilson thought about the short time she had spent at the Mirlhof with him, and imagined living there as his wife. Every day they would sit in the living room and drink coffee together. They would cook together in the kitchen and sit out in the garden in the summer time. They would no longer have to rely on phone calls and snatched meetings in her free time. They would be able to do everything together. Then Miss Wilson wondered about her job. She did not want to give it up. It was something she was good at, something that she enjoyed, and she could not imagine a life that did not involve teaching.
"We would still live here," Major Benson said, as if he had been reading her mind. "You could carry on teaching and I could cook dinner for you each day."
"I have just been thinking about what it would be like, living here with you," she told him with a smile. "It was rather like that, I have to admit."
"I knew it would be right once you had visited me," he said. "I can see us living in the Mirlhof together and it would be just like it was when you were there on Thursday. That was such a perfect time." They fell silent again, enjoying the tranquillity of the beautiful evening. All too soon they had reached his chalet, and they stopped outside. "It's not late," he told her. "Come in for a nightcap."
Miss Wilson needed no convincing. She followed him up the path and he let them in to the little chalet. It was still as clean and as tidy as it had been when she visited in the week, and she realized that the Major was a far tidier person than she was. They hung their coats in the cupboard, and went through to the kitchen to put the kettle on. Miss Wilson located the mugs and spooned in the coffee, then stood and waited for the water to boil. As she stood there, he came to stand behind her, wrapping his arms around her and she leaned comfortably against him. As she stood there, feeling loved and protected, she felt that she could almost cry for joy. At last she had someone of her own. She had never admitted it before, even to herself, but she had, on some level, always longed to have a chance to be looked after, to be something other than the strong one, capable of sorting out everyone else's problems, to be cherished by someone. Now she had found that someone, someone strong and capable, yet infinitely gentle and caring. Miss Wilson knew that she was very lucky.
"Will you make the coffee?" William's voice broke across her thoughts and she realized that the kettle was boiling away merrily. "Sorry, I was miles away," she said, reaching for the kettle. She made their coffee and they went into the sitting room. William put on the radio and found a station playing soft music and they sat close together on the settee. He put his arm around her and she leaned against him once more. Miss Wilson imagined coming home after a hard day's work, to find him waiting for her, sitting with him in the evenings, reading or talking or listening to music. It would all be so perfect.
"What would you do, though?" she asked him suddenly. "Would you be happy at home while I was out at work?"
"Yes, of course I would," he said with a smile. "I have been retired for a couple of years now, and I spend my time quite happily reading and pottering in the garden. I have a modest sum in the bank, quite enough to live here in comfort with you. I will be more than happy to stay at home, or walk over to the san and visit Jane or even make friends with some of the dreaded dull doctors and visit them! In the winter I shall learn to ski. When you have time off, we can visit other places, but I will be happy here living peacefully with you."
"Yes," she said once he had finished speaking. "My answer is yes."
He kissed her then, and when they finally remembered their coffee it was just about cold. He took the cups to the kitchen and then he came back, looking decidedly tentative. "Helena," he said, sitting down at her side again, "I'm afraid I wasn't completely honest about my trip to Berne." Miss Wilson felt a momentary anxiety, but before she could get upset, he continued, "I didn't just go to the airport. I also did some shopping." He drew a little velvet covered box from his pocket and held it out to her. "I hoped I would need this soon."
Miss Wilson gingerly opened the box and found herself looking at an engagement ring. It was gold, with a gleaming emerald set into it. She gave a gasp of surprise. "William, it's gorgeous," she managed to say.
He removed it from the box and took her left hand in his. He slid the ring onto her finger and found that it fitted perfectly. "Are you sure you like it?" he asked. "If you don't, we could always go back and change it."
"I love it," she said, unable to stop looking deep into the emerald. "And I love you, William."
"I love you, too, Helena," he replied.

 

#201:  Author: Róisín, Location: Galway, Eire PostPosted: Sat Sep 17, 2005 8:58 am

HURRAH!!!




Yay! Can't wait to read about the wedding! Fantastic Fatima, thank you Very Happy

 

#202:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Sat Sep 17, 2005 10:57 am

They sat together a little longer, but finally Helena knew she had to go back to St. Mildred's. She got up reluctantly and fetched her coat. William also took his from the cupboard, and insisted on walking her back to the school. "It's not as if it is snowing madly," he pointed out. "I can get back quite safely."
"So can I," she said, but she knew she would be glad of his company.
"I know you can," he said with a smile, "but the fact remains that you don't have to."
"It is going to take some getting used to," she told him, "knowing that I don't have to do everything by myself."
"We'll get used to it together," he promised. He locked the chalet and, arm in arm, they walked the short distance back to St. Mildred's. He waited until Miss Wilson had disappeared inside, then he turned and made his way back to his chalet, his step as light as his heart. Meanwhile, Miss Wilson had gone into her office and picked up the phone to call Hilda. She could hardly wait to tell her friend how the evening had ended. She knew that Hilda would be pleased for her, but that she would also be happy to keep the news quiet until the holiday. With just a few days of term left, Miss Wilson did not want the added distraction of being the main topic under discussion through the school, or across the Platz.
"You left early," said Hilda, once she had discovered who was calling her so late. "Is everything all right?"
"Yes, everything is very much all right," Helena said, hardly able to keep the smirk on her face from spilling over into her voice. "Guess what?"
"You have decided to ditch the Major and give Gwynneth a run for her money over the boring bald doctor?" Hilda guessed.
"No," Helena laughed. "Guess again."
"You are going into show business with the Major under the delightful name Jo suggested – Bill and Bill!"
"He asked me to marry him!"
'Oh, Nell, I am so pleased for you," Hilda's voice sounded warm and genuinely happy at the news. "I presume you accepted?"
"Yes. I did wonder if I needed time to think, but then I realized there was not much to think about. It just seemed right to say yes. We haven't discussed when or where yet, but we'll live up here and I will continue to work. William says he will be happy to let me continue working."
"You sound so happy, Nell, and I am really pleased for you," Hilda said. "If anyone deserves such a nice man as Major Benson it has to be you."
"Thank you, Hilda," said Helena. "Now, I must go, it's late and I shouldn't really have called you, but I just wanted you to know. I'm not going to broadcast it until the holiday, though, Hilda, so keep it under your hat, won't you?"
"Of course," said Hilda. "Thank you for telling me, Nell. Good night, my dear, and sleep well."
No sooner had Helena hung up than the phone rang. She lifted the receiver again and found that Major Benson was calling her to let her know he had arrived home safely. "I thought I should reassure you," he said, his voice so warm that it sounded as if he was standing next to her. "I wouldn't want you sending the dull doctors out to look for me!"
Helena laughed. "I don't think I would have resorted to that," she answered. "But thank you for calling."
"That's okay, darling," he said. "It is the least I can do for my fiancée."
"That is a nice word," she told him. "Actually, I like them both."
"Which words?" he wondered. "Ah, darling fiancée! Yes, I like them, too. They do have a certain ring to them, don't they?"
"Music to the ears," she agreed. "William, how would you feel about keeping things quiet for a few days, just until school has finished? Would you mind terribly?"
"As I have already shouted it from the rooftops, it may be too late for that!" he said trying to sound serious and failing badly. "Of course I don't mind, Helena, as long as I can tell Jane and James. Is that all right?"
"Yes, of course. I have called Hilda and told her."
"Already?"
"Yes," she said, sounding sheepish. "I couldn't stop myself."
"I don't mind," he assured her promptly. "You can tell people as you like, darling. I'm going to call Andrew, and you should get some sleep. See you tomorrow."
"Good night," she said, hardly able to believe how good he was. She left her office and headed up the stairs to her bedroom, trying not to giggle at the thought of him shouting their engagement from the rooftops.

 

#203:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Sat Sep 17, 2005 11:32 am

Oh, my - hat shopping....!
Fatima, that was lovely..he is such a sweetie!

 

#204:  Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh PostPosted: Sat Sep 17, 2005 2:18 pm

Awww! This is so lovely Fatima, thank you.

 

#205:  Author: Róisín, Location: Galway, Eire PostPosted: Sat Sep 17, 2005 3:17 pm

Smiled all the way through that! Very Happy

 

#206:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Sat Sep 17, 2005 3:43 pm

The next day, being Sunday, began in a very quiet and peaceful way. Helena awoke early, and lay for a while in bed, reading William's poetry book. She got up when the bell rang, and had breakfast with the rest of the staff in the large dining room. After the girls had had the time to tidy their rooms, they all went off to the Chalet School chapels. She enjoyed the short Mass, and gave fervent thanks for the arrival of William in her life. She found that he had attended the Mass as well, sitting at the back of the chapel as he had done the previous week. Again, to save her any embarrassment, he did not approach her, but he did hold her gaze as she passed him, and the look he gave her said more than words ever could. She followed the girls from the chapel, and met Hilda Annersley outside. Hilda was looking very pleased, and she came to Helena's side with as much speed as a dignified Head Mistress could muster and still look dignified.
"Congratulations," she said, "I'm so pleased for you, Nell."
Helena submitted to being kissed on the cheek with good grace, knowing that she would be subjected to lots more of the same once word of her engagement got out. "Thank you, Hilda," she said. "Will you come over one morning and have coffee with me? I would really like to talk to you."
"Of course I will," Hilda said at once. "I could manage for a while tomorrow afternoon, or Tuesday morning. After that it will be a bit hectic with the end of term looming."
"Tomorrow afternoon is fine," Helena agreed. "I have the afternoon off."
"Great, I will see you at about three," said Hilda. "Now I must rush my girls back to school before they get out of hand. Bye!"
Without waiting for a response, Hilda went off to shepherd her girls into some semblance of order, and take them back to the school. Helena went off to do the same with hers, although she did not need to make them march back in quite such an orderly way. They returned to St. Mildred's, and Helena made herself available in her office for a while. A couple of the girls came to see her, with questions about the exams they were entered for in the summer term, and she did her best to put their minds at rest. She had few worries about the performance of her girls for that summer, as that year she had one of the most studious groups of girls that had ever graced her establishment.
It was with difficulty that she controlled her urge to leave the school and rush over to the Mirlhof, but somehow she made herself stay in her office for an hour after they got back from their services. Finally, she could leave with a clear conscience; the girls and staff alike had all had a chance to come and talk to her, now she would go and enjoy her afternoon. She grabbed her coat from the back of the chair, slipped on the beautiful emerald ring and almost skipped from her office. The weather was lovely again, so spring-like and just in keeping with the feeling of new beginnings that were so much on Helena's mind. She reached the Mirlhof and rang the doorbell, but it was not answered at once as she had thought it might be. She was about to ring again when the door was opened and the Major appeared.
"Sorry, I had reached the crucial point with the fish," he apologised, standing aside to let her in. "I had to sort it out then and there. I hope you like fish?" he added.
"Very much," she assured him. "The fish caught in the lakes around here are delicious."
"I have no idea where these were caught," he said, going back to the kitchen. "I asked a shop in Interlaken to have them sent up. I am not even sure what kind of fish they are!"
Miss Wilson put her coat in the cupboard and went into the kitchen to see if she could help with the dinner. This time he did allow her to help him, and they found it a lot of fun, cooking together. They prepared an excellent meal, and ate with enjoyment. Once the kitchen had been returned to its previous immaculate state, they sat in the living room and William brought up the subject of their wedding.
"I don't know if you have given it any thought," he said, "but I wondered when you wanted to get married."
"How about next weekend?" she suggested, not entirely facetiously.
"That would be wonderful," he agreed, "but don't you think we will need a little longer to plan it?"
"I suppose so," she laughed. "How about at the start of the summer holiday? That will be at the beginning of July. Will we go back to England?"
"If you would like to. Or we could go to Our Lady of the Snows," he said, referring to the little Catholic chapel they had attended that morning.
"Oh, yes," she breathed. "Let's do it there. That would be perfect."
"I don't know a lot about weddings," he went on. "But whatever you want is fine. I want it to be a day you will never forget."
"I am sure it will be," she said, beginning to feel daunted by the things that they would have to sort out; something to wear, flowers, guests, a reception, invitations…The list went on and on.
"Don't worry about the preparations," he said, knowing from her expression that she was going to worry. "We will do them together. We can sit down once school has finished and decide just what we want to do. Helena, I am sure we can take care of everything together."
"You are right," she realized. "We can think about it next week. It will be exciting, won't it?"
"Very," he replied. "Now, I was also wondering if you would like to go to the San this afternoon and visit Jane. I have still to tell her our news and I thought you might like to be there when I tell her."
"Yes, I would like that," she said.
They drank their tea, put on coats and set off to the San, a journey so different from the one the previous week that Helena could not help but smile. "Spring is well and truly in the air, isn't it?" she observed. "The Platz is so lovely in the spring. It's beautiful in the summer with all the flowers, too."
"It's beautiful with snow on the ground," he said. "Actually, it is a breathtaking place at any time of the year!"
"Are you laughing at me?" she protested.
"Not at all. I am just agreeing with you. I can't believe how lucky I am to have come here."

 

#207:  Author: Róisín, Location: Galway, Eire PostPosted: Sat Sep 17, 2005 3:49 pm

Thanks Fatima; am really enjoying this Cool

 

#208:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Sat Sep 17, 2005 4:46 pm

They reached the san and went straight up to Jane's room. They found James already there, looking so much better than Miss Wilson had expected. William introduced her to James, and Helena found him every bit as courteous as his brother. He looked as tall as Andrew, but where Andrew had dark hair, James' hair was very light. Other than that, he was so much like his brother that they could have been twins.
"Hello, Helena," Jane greeted her from the bed. "I didn't know you were coming over today, or I would have made an effort to get up."
"Helena didn't know that she was coming, either," William said. "She came to visit me and I suggested we came to see you." William pulled a chair towards the bed and sat Helena down on it. He stood behind her and put a hand on her shoulder. "We thought we should come and tell you in person. Last night I asked Helena to marry me, and she has kindly agreed to become my wife."
Jane Chapman smiled at them, evidently delighted with their news. "Oh, William I am so pleased for you both," she said warmly. "Congratulations!"
"Congratulations," echoed James, looking equally pleased. "Uncle William, that is brilliant. You haven't stopped talking about Miss Wilson all the time we've been here, so I'm really glad for you."
Helena turned to look at William, who did seem a little surprised by his nephew's comment. "James is not known for his tact," he observed dryly.
James remained unabashed. "It's true," he informed Helena. "When will the wedding be?"
"We don't want to wait long," William explained, "so we were thinking of early July, once the school year finishes."
Jane gave a sigh. "I hope I can come," she said wistfully.
"I am sure they will let you come," said Helena with certainty. "We think we will get married in the Catholic chapel here on the Platz. I expect they will insist that you are driven there and back, but I really think they will allow you to come."
They spent a while discussing plans for the wedding, and Jane promised to help as far as she could from the San. Helena was happy to accept her help and agreed that she could write all the invitations, as Helena herself did not have the neatest handwriting in the world. James told them that he was very much better and would be leaving for England in a couple of days, but he said that he would arrange to return to the Platz for the wedding.
"Andrew will be coming over, too," said William. "I called him last night."
"It will be lovely," said Jane. "I can hardly wait!"
They spent some time at the San, and Helena knew that she was well and truly part of their family. She was no longer worried about the plans for the wedding; with such a family, she would not have to see to everything herself and would always have friendly advice, if she wanted it. After a lovely afternoon talking to Jane and James, Helena and William returned to the Mirlhof and spent a delightful evening together. They did not discuss the wedding further, but concentrated on enjoying each other's company and imagining how much more satisfactory everything would be after their marriage.

 

#209:  Author: Róisín, Location: Galway, Eire PostPosted: Sat Sep 17, 2005 5:06 pm

*starts hat shopping in earnest*

= them.

 

#210:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 6:53 am

I have mine already....

Fatima, it's lovely to see her being treated as part of the family - and i loved the reference to her handwriting!

 

#211:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 11:50 am

Lovely scenes - sopleased that everyone around them is happy for them.

 

#212:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 12:46 pm

It was very early in the morning of July 15th. Helena Wilson was at Freudesheim, staying in the guest room. A week previously the girls of St. Mildred's and the Chalet School proper had left the Platz for their summer holidays. She had stayed on at St. Mildred's for a few days and then had moved into Freudesheim for the last couple of days of being a single woman. By the time the day ended, she would have become Mrs. Benson. Helena got out of bed and crossed to the window. It was going to be a beautiful day, she was relieved to note. She stood for a while, staring out at the garden without seeing the beauty of it, she was so lost in her memories of the last few months.
One event that stood out clearly was her meeting with Hilda Annersley not long after her engagement. Although she had not had any doubts about her feelings for the Major, Helena had been concerned that others might not think that getting engaged to someone you hardly knew was such a good idea. However much she told them that it was as if she and the Major had known one another all their lives, the fact remained that they had only just met. Hilda had come over and Helena had explained her worry; she still remembered Hilda's eminently sensible reply.
"Are you doing the right thing, Nell?" she had asked. "Have you had a moment of doubt?"
"No, not one," Helena had answered at once. "It's as if we were meant to be together. He told me that he felt as if he had been waiting for me all his life, and I feel the same."
"Then it doesn't matter what everyone else thinks," Hilda had said firmly. "You are doing the right thing."
Since then, Helena had met people who evidently thought she was making a huge mistake, but, fortunately only a few of them. Most of her friends wished her well and seemed genuinely pleased for her. Over the following weeks, William had been wonderful. He had always been ready to listen to her panic about organising everything, or to spend time going for long walks to get away from her worries as the exams got underway. He cooked meals for her, took her shopping to find a hat and pair of shoes, and generally went on to remind her by his actions exactly why she had fallen in love with him in the first place.
Helena put on her dressing gown and crept out of the bedroom, deciding to go to the kitchen and find some coffee. She went quietly down the stairs and found Joey going on a similar mission. "You are up and about early," Jo commented as they went into the huge kitchen. "I hoped you would sleep later."
"I slept very well," Helena assured her hostess, "When I woke, I couldn't get back to sleep, so I thought I would have some coffee."
"Me, too," Jo agreed. "It is always the best time of day here, early in the morning before the hoards are up." She put two cups out and poured the coffee, while Helena went to find the milk. "How are you feeling?"
"Happy."
"As you should be," said Jo. "William is definitely your Mr. Right."
Helena sipped her coffee. "Yes," she said reflectively, "he certainly is."
They finished their coffee, and Helena went back upstairs to have a long bath, then Jo was calling her down to breakfast. Knowing that the bride-to-be would prefer a quiet morning, Jo had sent the younger children to stay with Winnie Embury, so breakfast was a more peaceful meal than usual in the Maynard house. The triplets were there, and Felicity, but the older boys were staying with friends in England for the start of their school holidays. Jack was also present for once, as he had managed to get the day off and Reg Entwhistle had promised that he would definitely not be disturbed.
After breakfast, Helena went back to her room until it was time to begin getting ready. Her god-daughter, Len, would be along to help her once she was dressed. Helena was to wear a cream suit, as she had not felt comfortable in a more traditional wedding gown. When she had mentioned the subject to William, he had agreed that it was better to be comfortable than fashionable, so she had gone ahead and chosen the suit. It was very elegant, made from beautiful Japanese silk, and she had a tiny hat with a veil to go with it. Since school ended, she had been to Interlaken and had her hair cut, for the first time in many years. Instead of falling to her waist, it was now just below her shoulders, so when it was put up it was more likely to stay in its elegant chignon than when it was long. Jo came in to sit with her for a while, and Helena was surprised when Jo's eyes filled with tears.
"Nell, I am so happy for you," she said sincerely. "I wish you all the best for the future. I hope you will be as happy as you are now for the rest of your married life."
"Thank you," Helena said, feeling tears coming into her own eyes.
Jo produced a hanky and scrubbed her eyes. "I wish weddings didn't always make me cry," she said. "Don't you start, though," she added warningly. "You don't want red eyes as you walk down the aisle!"
Helena had a sip from the glass of water beside the bed. She still had the feeling that everything was unreal, could hardly believe that the last weeks of planning were finally going to culminate in the wedding. Her wedding. She would soon be taken to the little chapel and would walk down the aisle to meet William and become his wife. "I can't believe it," she told Jo, wonder in her voice. "It's my wedding day. I never thought that day would come."
"It's here now," Jo said, making a valiant effort to squash any attempt at sentimentality, "and we had both better start to get dressed, or we won't be ready to go when Jack calls."
At that moment there was a knock at the door, and Helena's namesake came in. Len looked lovely in a simple blue summer dress, with blue shoes to match and a ribbon of the same colour in her chestnut hair. Jo smiled at her handsome daughter, and left to get herself ready. Len and Helena made a start on Helena's preparations, and by the time Jack Maynard was calling up the stairs for them, Helena was ready.
She descended the stairs, suddenly nervous. Hilda had accompanied her on her shopping expeditions to choose her suit, and she suddenly wondered if the two of them were too old to have good taste. What if she looked awful and a gasp of horror went around the chapel as she arrived? She did not think she would be able to live down such a thing; she would have to run from the chapel and keep on running until she never saw any of them again. Very slowly she made her way down, and stopped half way when she realized that everyone in the hall was staring at her. Just for a moment she thought they would cringe at her outfit, then Jack came towards her saying, "Nell, you look gorgeous. I knew you were good-looking, but I never before realized how beautiful you are."
The sincerity of his voice percolated Helena's consciousness, and she managed to smile at him. "Thank you, Jack," she said, and she walked down the remaining stairs into the hall. Jo and the triplets all kissed her, before rushing out to the car, and Helena heard their comments about how lovely she looked as they dashed off.
"We had better go, too," he told her, for he was to be the one who gave her away. He had his new car waiting outside, and he offered Helena his arm so they could leave together. Jo and the triplets were just disappearing round the corner in their old car, and Jack knew that they would reach the chapel at exactly the right moment.

 

#213:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 12:49 pm

I forgot to go hat shopping yesterday - how silly of me! I'll have to go tomorrow instead. I'm really pleased they're getting married - that is great news. I wonder how many of the people connected with the CS will be invited? I'm glad that William's family accept Nell and William is happy to carry on living in Switzerland.

 

#214:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 12:51 pm

Afterwards, Helena remembered little of the drive to the chapel. It seemed to pass very quickly and before she quite realized what was happening, they were parking outside and Jack was helping her out. He took her arm again. "Relax, Nell," he advised. "You should try to enjoy yourself today. Take a deep breath, and we'll go in."
Helena did as he asked and found that she felt a lot better. "I'm ready," she told him, and together they entered the little chapel.
Helena did not think she had ever seen the chapel as full as it was that day. So many people had come to watch her get married that they were squeezed into the pews and some were even standing at the back. Nervously she looked around, and then she saw William waiting at the top of the church, Andrew at his side. He looked very handsome in his dark suit, and when he caught her eye he winked almost imperceptibly and put Helena at ease.
To the accompaniment of some stirring organ music, Jack took Helena up the aisle and gave her away to William. They made their vows and before she knew it she was writing Helena Wilson for the last time. The woman that came out of the sacristy was Helena Benson. Resolving to miss nothing more, she clung to William's arm and looked round the chapel, seeing Hilda, resplendent in a navy and white suit, sniffing into her handkerchief. Gwynneth Lloyd, also mopping her eyes, was sitting beside the Head. On the other side of the chapel, Jane Chapman and James were watching attentively, along with some of William's friends who had come from England especially for the ceremony.
They celebrated Mass, their first as a married couple, and Helena was able to get a better look at all the people in the church when they came up to take communion. Con Stewart had come, her once flaming hair now white, but her eyes still merry. Madge and Jem were there, though Helena thought that Madge was looking very frail. Mary-Lou Trelawney and her husband were there, with a group of other former pupils. Gill Culver, looking attractive in her floaty floral dress and wide-brimmed hat, was with some other members of the staff of the Chalet School, both past and present, and the list of people who were celebrating with them went on and on.
The newly-weds held hands tightly as everyone took communion, and Helena found that the last of her nerves disappeared. She smiled at William and whispered, "This is lovely. It's the happiest day of my life."
"Mine, too," he whispered back, squeezing her fingers more tightly. "I'm so glad you are enjoying yourself. You looked so anxious when you arrived I was worried that you would not enjoy the day."
"I was nervous," she admitted, but before she could say more the priest was ending the service with a blessing and it was time for them to leave. They were having the reception at the Hotel Sorenberg; William had said it would be the perfect place to have the reception, seeing as how their romance had begun there. Jack Maynard had managed to leave the chapel before the bride and groom, and they were able to climb into the back of his car before they had been too covered with confetti. As Jack drove away, William put his arm around his new wife and kissed her thoroughly.
"Well, Mrs. Benson," he said with a grin, "I have to say that I have never seen you look as beautiful as you do now."
"Thank you, Mr. Benson," she retorted. "My shoes are not very comfortable, though!"
"I would never have guessed," he reassured her. "You can always slip them off under the table later!"
They went into the garden of the Hotel Sorenberg, where they had some photographs taken, then it was time for the reception to begin. The meal was, predictably, delicious, and Helena thoroughly enjoyed sitting between her new husband and her nephew, Andrew, and sharing the meal with her family and friends. Speeches were made, but those who spoke were kind to Helena and did not dredge up too many of her more hair-raising adventures. Champagne was drunk, and toasts were made, then the dancing began. One of the best memories Helena took from the reception was of dancing slowly in William's arms, the eyes of all the guests upon her.
After a few dances, he told her that they would soon have to go, as they would need to go to Interlaken to catch the train. He had not told her where he was taking her, but she had a case packed and her passport ready as he had instructed. She slipped away from the party to a small room where her travelling clothes were laid out ready, and her suitcase and handbag were waiting for her. She changed quickly into a far more practical suit, and was just making sure that her wedding outfit was hanging neatly on the hanger again when she heard a light tap at the door.
"Come in," she called.
The door opened to admit Hilda Annersley, who had followed her from the reception. "I just wanted to wish you every happiness," Hilda said, "and to thank you for a beautiful wedding."
"Thank you for coming," Helena said, feeling tears pricking the back of her eyes. Even though she would soon be back on the Platz, it felt odd leaving Hilda. They had been through so much together, and had been friends for so long, but now things would be different. There would not be any lessening of their friendship, but Helena would no longer turn to Hilda first if she needed help or advice. She now had William for that, and Hilda had no one. Realizing some of what her friend was feeling, Helena stepped forward and hugged her. "I'll be back, Hilda," she said softly. "It might be different, but we will still be the best of friends."
"I know," Hilda Annersley said, returning the hug, her grey eyes misted with tears. "I am happy for you, Nell. Have a fabulous time and call me when you return."
Helena broke away from her friend. "Good bye, Hilda," she said, going out of the door, tears in her eyes, too.
She found William waiting for her in the foyer of the hotel, and a crowd of friends waiting to say good bye. They were hugged and kissed and it took them almost ten minutes to leave, but finally they were sitting in Jack's car once more. Jack got into the driving seat and Major and Mrs. Benson drove off into their happy future together.

 

#215:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 12:58 pm

Thanks, Fatima. I'm glad they're married - it was a lovely wedding. I'm sorry I didn't have time to buy a hat though. I'm glad Con and Madge were able to come from Australia.

 

#216: chris as guest Author: Guest,  PostPosted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 2:17 pm

what a beautiful old-fashioned romance - thank you.

 

#217:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 2:24 pm

Anonymous wrote:
what a beautiful old-fashioned romance.


Thank you for all the comments about this; it is the first time I have ever written anything and finished it and let someone read it. I am so pleased with the comment here; I was trying to make it an old fashioned love story, as I felt that was most appropriate for Miss Wilson. It's nice to know that someone got the gist of what I was trying to do. Thank you so much to everyone who took the time to read the story and comment on it.

 

#218:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 4:13 pm

You did a wonderful job, Fatima. I'm sorry to see the drabble end.

 

#219:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 11:57 pm

Thank you Fatima; this was very gentle. I'm so glad she enjoyed her wedding! And I loved her comment about the shoes - typical female! (actually my shoes were fine, but some other garments were horribly restrictive!). And she took time to reassure Hilda that they we still friends.

 

#220:  Author: keren, Location: Israel PostPosted: Mon Sep 19, 2005 8:07 am

You wrote the whole of the wedding very tastefully.

 

#221:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Sep 19, 2005 11:00 am

Wonderful Fatima. So right. Thank you.

 

#222:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Sep 19, 2005 10:25 pm

Oh Fatima this was amazing, I really enjoyed it. I'm so behind with the drabbles and RL is making me ration myself to one drabble a night at the moment and I'm so pleased I chose this one tonight.

Agree with all the comments that it was beautifully rich in detail & William was just perfect - a true SLOC in the best tradition!

Thanks also for the compliment about on page 11 I think Embarassed

*Sends numerous bunny treats*

Please write another drabble immediately! Very Happy

 

#223:  Author: Róisín, Location: Galway, Eire PostPosted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 11:17 am

*echoes Mia* Write another drabble immediately Fatima!

I've just caught up on this and the ending was fabulous - really sweet and subtle. I really felt like I was there - your writing is so sympathetic. Thanks again Very Happy

 

#224:  Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh PostPosted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 3:54 pm

This has been a lovely romantic drabble, Fatima thank you. And just the right note of bittersweet as well thinking of Hilda.

 

#225:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 9:40 pm

That was absolutely beautiful Fatima, a real joy to read from start to finish - thankyou

 

#226:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 9:43 pm

Thank you, Fatima, that was wonderful. I hope you realise though that you've spoiled me for all other men now? I'll expect them to cook and wash up and they'll disappoint me every time...! Very Happy

 

#227:  Author: RuthY, Location: Anyone's guess PostPosted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 5:24 pm

Just read all of this.

It is lovely, thank you Fatima.

Ruth

 

#228:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 6:42 pm

Beautiful

Thanks Fatima this has been wonderful from start to end

Liz

 

#229:  Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 10:01 pm

That was lovely Fatima. As Guest wrote,
Quote:
a beautiful old-fashioned romance
Smile

(Jo was wrong that they couldn't be Bill & Bill, my sister worked with aldy callled Lynn, whose husband was called Lin!)

 

#230:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 10:04 pm

I had a friend whose parents were Christopher and Christine, both known as Chris!

 

#231:  Author: Shander, Location: Halifax PostPosted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 1:34 am

Thank you Fatima. That was lovely.

 

#232:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 12:41 am

Fatima that was beautiful - and what a perfect ending! Thank you.

 

#233:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Sat Oct 22, 2005 10:57 pm

Read this through today Fatima, and have loved every moment of it!

Aww-ed at the best bits (the first kiss!!!) and laughed hapily when they were married.

Thank you!

 

The CBB -> Ste Therese's House


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