The CBB :: View topic - A Problem for the San

#1: A Problem for the San Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 3:26 pm

This is the sequel to A Friend of the Family which is also in Ste Therese's.

“Frank, I don’t understand. Are you trying to tell me that I’ve not got a job anymore?” Rix asked, in disbelief.

“Of course not. What I was trying to say, “ Frank sighed, exasperated, “Is that you’re going on sabbatical for six months. On full pay.”

“But that’s ridiculous, we don’t go on sabbaticals. What would I do? Anyway, we’re far too busy.” Rix protested. “Is this a joke?”

“Richard, I’ve been in that meeting for three hours, arguing with the Board, who were unanimous about terminating your employment. This is the best I could do. And even then, it could’ve been a suspension on no pay, with a great deal of damage to your professional reputation.” Rayner replied, in tones of exasperation. “Believe me when I say this was the best I could do for you.”

“I know it is – thank you.” Rix said, chastened. “Is this because of what happened at the wedding?”

“What do you think? I know Lady Brentford has offered to donate the money instead, but you still assaulted Ellingham and he has a number of influential friends."

Rix sat down behind his own desk. Rayner could tell he was upset.

“Well, it’s done and it can’t be undone.” He said, philosophically. “I told them you wouldn’t make a fuss – you won’t will you? After all, it’s only six months and you’ll be able to do write some more articles and have a long honeymoon. Then you can come back here and start training your own assistant. Yes, I telephoned the Royal College this morning and you’ve been awarded Membership. Congratulations.”

Rix grinned, then sobered. “I am sorry, Frank. I should’ve kept my temper. I’ve made things difficult for you as well. And Ellingham was your friend.”

“We weren’t that close, don’t worry. And the Board will come round in time. Now, I hate to say it, but you’d better make yourself scarce. I’ve got to welcome my new assistant, and if I don’t see you before, I’ll be at your wedding – in three weeks’ time, didn’t you say?”

“Great.” Rix replied, but he felt extremely miserable as he left the hospital.

Last edited by Mia on Mon Aug 01, 2005 11:23 am; edited 64 times in total

#2: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 4:06 pm

awww poor Rix, though I can see the advantages of it as well. It doesnt stop it hurting unfortunately. Nice to see this back Mia, thanks. Looking forwards to seeing how it progresses

#3: Author: Katie, Location: A Yorkshire lass in London

Posted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 4:24 pm

Oooh, very speedy! Thank you Mia. Very Happy

#4: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 4:32 pm

Wow! A sequel started already Very Happy

Thanks Mia - you're spoiling us (please don't stop!) Kiss

Glad Rix is on 6 months sabattical with full pay - as Frank said time for a long honeymoon and a visit to the Gornetz san to sort things out maybe?

*goes off to buy a new wedding hat*

Liz

#5: Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge

Posted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 4:38 pm

Wow, Mia, that was quick!

I'm excited about the six months' sabbatical - that should give Rix & Mary-Lou time to do some sorting out!

#6: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 5:05 pm

Wow that was quick, not that I'm complaining, of course! Very Happy

thanks Mia

#7: Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh

Posted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 5:22 pm

good to see this so soon, thanks Mia.

#8: Author: Rosy, Location: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth

Posted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 5:23 pm

Wow. Cheers Mia.

*settles down contentedly to wait for more*

#9: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 6:03 pm

Lovely to see this again. Razz

I do feel a bit sorry for Rix over that. The scumbag deserved worse than he got Evil or Very Mad

#10: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 6:29 pm

Hurrah it's back already Very Happy

Thanks Mia, I do feel a bit sorry for Rix, but good for Rayner for sticking up for him. Am presuming that from the title, he's going to head to the san? Or will he join M-L on a dig?

*waits with anticipation to find out*

#11: Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK

Posted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 8:34 pm

Thanks, Mia. You are very good to us!

#12: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 9:06 pm

Thak you Mia
*Meets Liz in the hat shop*

#13: Author: Laura, Location: London (ish)

Posted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 9:34 pm

Thanks Mia! Lovely to see this back Very Happy

#14: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 10:54 pm

thank you Mia. I hope Gerald gets his come-uppance!

#15: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 10:55 pm

What a lovely surprise! Thanks Mia!

hammer

Scum and

Hospital Board members.

Edited cos of what Liz said....

Last edited by Lesley on Sat Jun 25, 2005 10:33 am; edited 1 time in total

#16: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 12:26 am

That was fast, Mia!

What a good boss Rayner is. Too bad if Rix sees the sabbatical as a disgrace, but it certainly frees Rix and ML for further adventures.

Q: Did Lady Brentford contribute to spite Evil Ellingham? Twisted Evil

#17: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 10:02 am

Lesley wrote:

Scum and

Board members.

For a moment there I thought 'why is Lesley poking us!? Laughing

*tries on another hat and admires nikkie in hers*

Liz

#18: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 10:32 am

LizB wrote:

Lesley wrote:

Scum and

Board members.

For a moment there I thought 'why is Lesley poking us!? Laughing

*tries on another hat and admires nikkie in hers*

Liz

Ooops, have amended post! Laughing

#19: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 12:53 pm

Glad that Rix has got off with a six-month sabbatical, but gives GE a good kick where it hurts the most.

Thanks, Mia.

#20: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 1:27 pm

Thank you Mia!
Have been a little lame lately and have no idea what actually happened at the wedding! This drabble waas just at the top of my "What I havent looked at" list!

*goes off to catch up*

Hannah Very Happy

#21: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 4:08 pm

Liz & Lesley!

“It’s not too bad –” Mary-Lou sympathised later, as she cooked dinner in the kitchen of his flat. “I mean, it could be so much worse, couldn’t it? And I can always see if the Museum will let me retract my resignation if we need the money.”

“I suppose.” Rix agreed from the kitchen table, where he was scribbling on a piece of paper. “No, don’t worry, we’re fine for money, even if you wanted a big wedding. I’ve got some money saved. You don’t have to work anywhere you don’t want. The only thing is – well, I can’t see how I’ll be able to refuse to go out to the Oberland now.”

“Six months isn’t forever, though. And I don’t want a big wedding, I just want you.” She came over and kissed him, abandoning her cooking to perch on his knee. “I’ll come with you of course. Do you know, I might write to those people and thank them for letting me have you all to myself for a while.”

*

Three weeks later, they married in Marylebone Registry Office. Mary-Lou wore the blue dress that she had worn in the Quadrant. The ceremony felt a lot less grand than Maeve’s large and expensive affair, but neither of them cared. Mollie, Dick and Daphne, together with Bride and Simon Carrington were there and to Mary-Lou’s delight, Verity and her husband Alan Trevor were able to attend also. A number of their friends were there, including Rayner and Daniel Lyndhurst, standing in as Rix’s best man, as David had refused to attend.

Rix frowned to remember their discussion, which had taken place two days after he had started his enforced sabbatical. He had phoned David and arranged to meet in a pub by David’s hospital.

Their conversation had been stilted; Rix felt uncomfortable about the way he had not told David that he loved Mary-Lou and David was frankly jealous and unable to comprehend that for once Rix had put himself before his cousin.

“Will you be my best man, Dave? We’ve always been more like brothers than cousins…” Rix had said, to be cut off almost at once.

“No, sorry, I can’t make it.” David had said, cursorily. “I’ve got things to do that day.”

“But – ”

“Look, I’ve got to go. I hope you’ll both be very happy.” His tone had been sarcastic and Rix had fought to keep control of his temper.

“We will. Thanks.” He had replied, stiffly. David had left and they hadn’t spoken since.

“Why are you scowling like that? Having second thoughts?” Daniel Lyndhurst asked, making a joke. He had been quieter than ever since the wedding at the Quadrant and Mary-Lou had confirmed her suspicions that he loved Maeve. The Brentfords were still on their honeymoon and unable to make the wedding, though Mary-Lou had written to say how thrilled she was.

“Of course not.” Rix grinned, it was his wedding day and not much could depress him today. Not even the fact that after their short honeymoon in France they would be going to the Oberland at Jack’s invitation, so he could start working at the San.

Last edited by Mia on Sat Jun 25, 2005 6:58 pm; edited 1 time in total

#22: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 4:31 pm

Thank you Mia.

I did wonder if you would put a nasty problem in to stop them getting married.

David is not at all nice in this!

I wonder what will happen at the San. I am not at all sure it is A Good Idea for them to go from their point of view Confused

#23: Author: RuthY, Location: Anyone's guess

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 4:41 pm

Wow Mia the Sequel started fast!

Enjoying this and feel sorry for Rix

David isn't nice in this!

Ruth

#24: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 5:01 pm

Thanks Mia - don't think much of David - talk about petulant.

#25: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 7:53 pm

Thank you, Mia, glad to see this back already.

#26: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 8:22 pm

After their all too short honeymoon, they took a train from Toulouse to Paris, spending an evening there, and then the morning train to Berne, where they would change for Interlaken. They were fortunate enough to have the compartment to themselves and Mary-Lou spent most of the journey in Rix’s arms.

“Jack’s meeting us in Interlaken with the car.” he told her, “And we’ll stay at Freudesheim for tonight, and move into our own chalet tomorrow. How does that sound?”

“Marvellous. I’m really looking forward to seeing Joey and everyone again. I know it’s the holidays, but I expect some of the mistresses will be there. Aren’t you longing to see the Platz again?”

“I’ve never been there. You’ll have to show me round.”

“Of course I will, I’ll show you all my pet walks. I wonder how much it’s changed? The last time I visited was when Len got engaged – and now she’s a proud mamma! I’m looking forward to seeing her and the baby. I say, darling, do you think you’ll be working long hours at the San?”

“I’m hoping not – Jack did say I could just go in for a few mornings a week, but I’ll have to see. Hello, this looks like Berne.”

“It is – and there’s the Interlaken train over there! We should do it if we run. Give me that case, won’t you? And where’s my handbag?”

They made the train just before the guard blew his whistle and found seats together, although the train was busy. Mary-Lou gazed out of the window, thrilled to see the familiar scenery she remembered from her schooldays.

Upon arrival, she was one of the first out of the train, looking at her surroundings eagerly.
Rix followed her with the cases and they looked around for Jack Maynard and his car.

*

“I wonder where he could be?” Rix asked, after they had waited for twenty minutes in vain. “Look, let’s get a coffee and find a telephone, I’ll ring them up…”

“No need, look, it’s Con. Con!” Mary-Lou waved and a few seconds later, Con was with them. “Why, Con, what’s wrong?” she added, at once.

Con was very pale and her eyes were brimming with tears. She looked as if she was in shock. At first she could only shake her head and sob, but eventually they managed to calm her down between them, so she could tell them what was wrong.

“It’s Papa,” she managed, in her distress she reverted to the name she had called him as a child. “There’s – there’s been an accident.”

#27: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 8:34 pm

Mia!!!!

#28: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 8:38 pm

Oh dear!

(Good cliff though! Twisted Evil

)

#29: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 9:21 pm

I haven't read all the stories yet. What is the story before this sequel called please? Sorry to sound so stupid.

#30: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 9:34 pm

It's 'A friend of the family'. Don't worry about asking questions, Chair. If you ask it, other people are probably thinking it, and will be grateful to you for asking.

#31: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 9:36 pm

Thanks Lyanne for answering my question and making me feel less stupid.

#32: Author: Katie, Location: A Yorkshire lass in London

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 10:41 pm

Good Lord Mia - you don't hang about getting started on the cliffs, do you?! Hope the worst hasn't happened...

#33: Author: Alice, Location: London, England

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 12:41 am

A sequel already and with so many posts! This is good, though I am wibbling a bit about Jack...

#34: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 4:21 am

Wibbling more than a bit!

#35: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 10:23 am

Argh!

Nooooooooooo!

Mia!!!! Shocked

(thanks

)

Liz

#36: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 12:43 pm

Thanks Mia, yet another cliff!

#37: Author: Laura, Location: London (ish)

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 1:55 pm

Thanks Mia!!! Don't hesitate to warn us of those cliffs, will you?!

#38: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 5:27 pm

I've read all the way through the prequel today and reread this section. It's so annoying that Gerard couldn't have gone instead for the way he treated Mary Lou. I hope that everything is ok with the Maynards.

What is Con meant to be doing now? Is she a writer or something else?

#39: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 5:56 pm

“What’s happened?” Rix took charge immediately. “Come on, Con! Is he badly hurt?”

“He’s broken his leg – he fell down the stairs in the San. But Rix, he banged his head too, and – he was knocked out.”

“Is he still unconscious?” Rix manoeuvred her into a nearby café and Mary-Lou ordered some coffees.

“No, he’s awake now, but, he’s – Reg said it’s a bad fracture and it’ll be months before he’s back on his feet. It’s just – “

“It’s a shock, I know.” Rix said supportively. “I’m sure he’ll be fine, Con. He’ll get the best of care and even bad fractures generally heal fine. He hasn’t lost his memory or anything?”

“He’s gone really quiet. He asked for you, he said he urgently needed to speak with you, but he won’t talk to Mother, hardly at all. But he hasn’t lost his memory.”

“It’ll only be about San business,” Rix hedged, thinking about what Jack had said about financial problems, not wishing to worry her further. “I don’t expect it’ll be anything important. I’ll see him as soon as we get there, OK? How’s Aunt Jo?”

“She’s with Dad in the San.” Con shuddered, “I keep thinking that he could’ve died.”

“Don’t think about that.” Rix said, paying for the coffees in preparation for their leaving. “He’s going to be fine, and that’s the important thing. And I’m sure someone will be able to take hold at the San, so that’ll be a relief for him.”

Con, now much calmer, drove them to the San. Mary-Lou sat next to her and they chatted about Con’s writing, although she still seemed subdued. Rix sat in the back of the car, wondering just how serious Jack’s financial problems were.

*

They reached the Gornetz Platz and Con drove them straight to the San.

“Why don’t Con and I go to Freudesheim and leave you here?” Mary-Lou suggested. “I’m sure they won’t want a lot of people visiting. I’ll see Jack tomorrow.”

“Good idea, darling. I’ll see you later. Bye Con.” Rix got out of the car and they left.

He looked around, noticing the landscaped gardens and that the whole San seemed very luxurious. He had never seen it before and it was certainly miles away from the average NHS hospital.
The receptionist spoke to him in German but switched to English straight away when she saw he didn’t understand. She directed him to Jack’s room straight away and he headed there, wondering just what condition he would find his uncle in.

Jo was sat in the private room and she jumped up to embrace Rix as he entered.

“He’s going to be fine.” She said, after they had exchanged greetings. “They’ve sedated him for now, but he wanted to see you. He asked me to ask you if you’d look after the San until he’s better. Will you? I told him that Neil Sheppard and the others were still around, but he was determined that you knew all about it and that you should deputise for him.”

Rix thought at once of the financial problems that Jack had spoken of. He looked at the patient, who in addition to the broken leg, had a rainbow of bruises across his face and saw he couldn’t refuse, although he was completely mystified why one of Jack’s colleagues couldn’t take charge. Still, it would only be a month or two before Jack would be up and able to get around on crutches.

“Of course I’ll help all I can, Auntie Jo – how on earth did this happen anyway?”

“He fell down the stairs. Reg found him.” Jo looked close to tears and Rix decided not to question her any further, though he resolved to get hold of Reg Entwistle at the first opportunity and find out if Jack had been drinking.

At Freudesheim, Jo cheered slightly to see Mary-Lou again. The Bettanys had planned to book a room in one of the hotels, but Jo insisted that they should stay at Freudesheim and Mary-Lou had agreed.

Rix was less enthusiastic but he was conscious that he might have to put in a few more hours at the San than he had initially thought and that Mary-Lou would prefer the company. He was also rather concerned about Con. She seemed anxious and jumpy and he wondered why. Was it just her father's accident or something else?

Sorry - another cliff Rolling Eyes

#40: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 6:41 pm

You don't hold back on the cliffs do you, Mia Wink

Poor Rix! I hope he is going to keep Mary Lou up to date with anything he learns. She is his partner after all, regardless of Jack's reluctance to worry Jo Confused

I wonder what the other staff will feel about Rix walking in and taking over. None to happy, I imagine.

ETA : Wondering what Con's problem is?

#41: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 6:48 pm

Missed the first cliff but head first off the second!
Whats happenning to Con in this drabble?

#42: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 7:19 pm

Excellent Mia, very suspicious of why Jack was so adamant Rix take over, and of Con's reaction.

Thank you.

#43: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 7:23 pm

I hadn't thought of Mary Lou being a Bettany before now! Also, Aunty Joey is actually now an Aunty by marriage!

I'm surprised that Rix never learnt German at school or he never picked up any spending the early years of his life living in Austria.

#44: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 7:56 pm

But Rix lived in an English home in Austria, and it was only the very early years of his life. I guess the chances are German wouldn't have been taught at school during/shortly after the war years either.

I have to agree with you - it's strange to think of Mary-Lou as a Bettany!

I hope they're not going to have more problems because of staying at Freudesheim.

Thanks Mia

Looking forward to seeing what's going on with Con.

Liz

#45: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 8:35 pm

He was about to engage her in conversation when Anna brought in a trolley loaded with cakes, beaming all over her face to see Rix. She went off into a flood of German. The Maynards and Mary-Lou laughed.

“She says she hasn’t seen you since you were a little boy and now you’re all grown up.” Six year-old Phil told him gravely.

“Oh, that’s not true – I must’ve been seventeen at least.” He laughed, kissing Anna on the cheek.

“I say, you’d better pitch in at once with learning German.” Mary-Lou remarked. “You won’t get far without it round here.”

“You’ll have to have lessons from Miss Denny.” Cecil suggested cheekily, and the youngest twins giggled. Jo laughed as well, and looked far happier than she had previously.

“How are Len and the baby?” Rix asked Con, as they drank ‘English’ tea and ate delicious lemon biscuits. Con didn’t eat much and he was starting to think something was seriously wrong with her.

“Fine.” Con said, languidly, “Well, Len seemed OK, but Laura had colic last time I went up there. She was making an awful noise.” She seemed to rouse slightly, “I don’t know how Len copes.”

“Well, I had three of you to cope with.” Joey said at once. “And when one of you roused, so did the other two! Len’s fine, she’s always been a real help to me. Wait till you see my granddaughter, Mary-Lou.”

Con opened her mouth to say something, but at that point Geoff caused a diversion by trying to cram three biscuits into his mouth. Jo called him to order at once and during this, Con excused herself and slipped away.

“Con’s terribly caught up in her novel.” Joey explained, proudly. “She’s only got three chapters left. And I had a letter from Margot the other day as well. I’ve written to tell her about Jack’s accident – I wanted to cable, but I thought she’d be too worried. He will be all right, won’t he, Rix?”

“Of course he will.” Rix reassured at once. He had wondered why Jack didn’t seem to share unpleasant things with his wife, but now he was starting to realise just how much Joey seemed to depend on her husband despite all her surface independence.

That night, as he and Mary-Lou were in their own room, he told her all about the implications of Jack’s accident.

“I’m not sure why he wants me to take charge and not one of the other doctors. I mean Reg Entwistle is his son-in-law after all, and Laurie’s family too. I’ll have to see him tomorrow morning and try and find out what’s going on,” he said, “I’m rather worried about what he’s going to say though.”

“You said he told you he was having money problems.” Mary-Lou said, leaving her dressing table to go over and kiss him. “Could that be it? He mightn’t want anyone else to know.”

“They might have to know. And I’ll certainly have to tell Joey.”

“Wait and see how bad it is before you do,” Mary-Lou suggested with a good deal of common sense. “It might be nothing and if it is, well, you’ll have all the facts. This is dreadful, isn’t it? And it’s not just the Maynards, it’s the Peters and the Rosomons and all of them.”

“I know.” He said, quietly, “I’m dreading tomorrow.”

“Con seemed in a world of her own, didn’t she?” Mary-Lou butted in, to change the subject, but her arms went around him at once. “She used to moon around like that at school, but I thought she’d got better lately.”

“I did notice – I thought maybe she might know?”

“I doubt it, she would’ve told Joey. I’ll speak to her tomorrow, darling. Promise me that if we ever have any problems we’ll discuss them straight away?”

“I promise.” Rix said, stroking her hair.

#46: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 8:47 pm

I think Con is very worried - I also think that Joey is too sheltered - she didn't want to hear about Len's problems either.

Thanks Mia.

#47: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 8:47 pm

Thanks Mia

Mary-Lou & Rix are lovely together. I hope they are able to help Jack & the San and Con (and probably a few others as well!)

Liz

#48: Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 8:55 pm

Hmmm, so many things to find out! Great updates thanks Mia.

#49: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 10:21 am

Jack was awake the next morning and he seemed pleased to see his nephew.

“Jo said you’d take over as Head of the San,” he said, at once, “I really can’t thank you enough.”

“I’ll help out all I can, Jack, but do you really think I should do that? What would your colleagues say? I must be a lot younger than most of them and I don’t know anything about this place.”

“I’ve told them already – Reg will help you. They’ll all help you, I’m sure.” Jack looked completely unconvinced. “I told you we had a few problems… I’ll be able to help you out in a week or so. It’s only for a very short time.”

“I suppose.” Rix said, doubtfully.

“I do want some new ideas about how we can adapt. I’m sure you’ll be able to make a plan once you’ve looked through the accounts and the case notes. I really can’t see why we’re so in the red.”

“Do you do the accounts yourself?” Rix asked, surprised. “Isn’t there a bookkeeper?”

“No, I do them, and so does Laurie and Reg, we all tend to go over them together every month or so. You’ll find them in my office – your office – just on the first floor.”

“Then don’t Laurie and Reg know that you’re making a loss?”

“I haven’t let them see the books for months – there’s two sets anyway. I’ve had loans from the bank as well, so nobody knows. I’d like to keep it that way if we could, I don’t want my whole staff walking out.”

“Why two sets of books? You’re not dodging tax are you?”

“No.” Jack said, far too quickly. “One set has wages and other overheads in it. All confidential of course. It’s locked in my desk – here’s the key – with the share information. I’m still the majority shareholder, although the bank currently has most of it.”

“I’ll have to look through them later. I suppose I’ll have to introduce myself to your colleagues first.” Rix sighed, knowing the whole experience of working at the San was going to be one nightmare after another.

*

“And so, I’m sure we all hope Jack will make a quick recovery and take charge again.” Rix concluded his speech to the assembled staff. He had tried his best to sound confident, but it had been very difficult. Reg Entwistle was scowling and Laurie Rosomon also looked unfriendly. Most of the other doctors appeared hostile and all of the nursing and support staff looked uneasy, as if they knew something was going to happen.

“Herr Doktor Bettany.” One of the older Swiss doctors addressed him, “Will we be closing the TB wards?”

“I need to tour the wards and look over the books, but a decision of that sort will be made by Jack – I mean, Dr Maynard. Would one of you show me around the San, please?” The silence was deafening and Rix bit his lip. “Dr Entwistle? Would you mind?”

“No, Dr Bettany.” Reg’s scowl did not lessen and Rix wondered just how much of a mistake he had made to come out to the Gornetz Platz.

#50: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 11:30 am

I can see troubles ahead. Obviously Reg thinks that Rix is an interloper, and Jack really ought to have told the other doctors about the financial problems.

#51: Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 11:35 am

This is great, Mia - love how Mary-Lou and Rix's relationship seems already very strong and supportive. Methinks I see the subtle odour of blackmail (Jack's of Rix) in getting him to "take over", and I'm not really surprised at Laurie and Reg's reactions - they must be worried about their jobs.

Thanks very much.

#52: Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 11:39 am

It does look like poor Rix will be in for a hard time of it. Thanks Mia.

#53: Author: Alice, Location: London, England

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 11:58 am

Poor Rix, having the San foisted on him.

#54: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 12:43 pm

Poor Rix - Hope he can get Reg and Laurie to see he had as little choice about it as they did.

Thanks Mia

Liz

#55: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 12:58 pm

*hugs Rix*

Thanks for the latest update, Mia. I feel sorry for Rix having no support from the rest of the staff at the San.

#56: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 1:03 pm

Quote:

“Then don’t Laurie and Reg know that you’re making a loss?”

“I haven’t let them see the books for months – there’s two sets anyway. I’ve had loans from the bank as well, so nobody knows. I’d like to keep it that way if we could, I don’t want my whole staff walking out.”

“Why two sets of books? You’re not dodging tax are you?”

“No.” Jack said, far too quickly. “One set has wages and other overheads in it. All confidential of course. It’s locked in my desk – here’s the key – with the share information. I’m still the majority shareholder, although the bank currently has most of it.”

Run, Rix! this is a potential disaster for you!

I feel sorry for the other staff. They are understandably dischuffed at Rix taking charge!

thank you Mia. I'm really glad Mary Lou and Rix are sharing things.

#57: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 1:06 pm

3 clfifs in as many pages!

Mia what are you setting us up for?!

#58: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 4:46 pm

Blimey - sounds like a right hornet's nest!

Thanks Mia.

#59: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 6:39 pm

“Please, call me Rix.” Rix said, as they were walking around the San, unable to bear Reg’s sullen silence anymore. “You know Len and I are cousins, it seems strange for you to call me Dr Bettany – and anyway, I’m a surgeon so I’m Mr Bettany.”

Reg glanced at him, “Jack prefers to be called Dr Maynard at work,” he said, politely yet coldly. “And the Swiss don’t understand the British difference between surgeons and other doctors, so you’ll just get Herr Doktor like the rest of us.”

“I see – thanks. But you must call me by my first name out of work.” Rix decided to ignore Reg’s tone. Reg didn’t reply.

Rix was completely baffled by this treatment. He had never met Reg before, having been unable to attend Len’s wedding, and he couldn’t think why Reg would treat him this way. After all, he was only in charge pro tem. and it wouldn’t be longer than a few weeks.

Rix followed Reg from ward to ward, asking questions despite the older man’s obvious irritation. The three children’s wards were empty, but for a few children with illnesses like bronchitis and pneumonia. Rix paused by three empty beds with plaques above them, “What are these?” he asked.

“They’re the Chalet School beds. The girls at the school donate money and we use them for children whose parents can’t afford treatment.”

“But they’re empty now? How long have they been empty?”

“Six months or so – I think.” Reg replied.

“Does the School still contribute to their upkeep?” Rix made some notes on his writing-pad.

“Oh yes, I believe the girls give some of their church collections and they have a Sale-of-Work every year. It was about £500 I think, that was in June before the end of term.”

Rix said nothing, but he was surprised that the San could take money from schoolgirls and not use it for the purpose for which it was intended, although he also knew that he couldn’t comment until he had seen the accounts. He wondered where all the patients were. What was happening at the San?

“I’ll show you Jack’s office.” Reg said, bringing the tour to a definite close.

“Reg – ” Rix decided to lay some of his cards on the table. “What’s going on – I thought there would be more patients here? Do you only concentrate on lung and respiratory illness?”

“No. We have a maternity ward. Most people go to Berne.” Reg’s mask slipped for a brief second and he looked anxious. “We used to have a lot more patients.”

“I’m sure it’s just a temporary problem.” Rix replied, but Reg had closed up again and left Rix standing outside his new office.

#60: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 6:49 pm

Thanks for another update so soon, Mia! I wish Reg could be more friendly to Rix, seeing as they're cousins in law - if there is such a thing. What I mean is that Reg married Rix's cousin, Len.

#61: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 7:25 pm

I think that Reg knows more than he's prepared to say at the moment. And, of course, there's the fact that Rix is younger than he is, so Reg will see it as the usual Bettany/Maynard/Russell situation.

#62: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 7:29 am

Thanks Mia

*wondering what terrible things Rix will find when he looks through the papers in Jack's office*

Liz

#63: Author: Lucy, Location: Leeds

Posted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 11:36 am

Wow Mia - you've certainly been busy. Exclamation

I was only away for a few days and already we've settled deep into Switzerland.

Can't wait to catch up with some of the mistresses (wondering who's still around)

#64: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans/Leicester

Posted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 5:01 pm

Oh dear... Poor Rix is in for a very hard time I suspect particularly if the rest of the staff resent him coming in which it looks like Sad

Thanks Mia, can we have some nice news now ;)

#65: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 7:13 pm

I think I agree with Patmac - run Rix - two sets of book? Beds paid for but not used? Empty wards? And hostile Staff! He should be on his way to an archaelogical dig with Mary Lou!

Thanks Mia.

#66: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 10:29 am

Jack’s office was a mess, medical files, journals and other papers covered every surface, including the floor and none were in any particular order. In fact, it looked as if someone had been looking for something in a hurry.

Rix opened the desk drawer with the key Jack had given him and found the account ledgers and correspondence from the banks that Jack had borrowed from. Flipping quickly through them he was disheartened to see that Jack had borrowed from at least five banks, although it would take some time to add up just how much he owed.

He locked them away carefully and started to clear up the office.

*

Mary-Lou had spent a busy morning at Freudesheim, taking the five year-old twins for a walk around the Platz and catching up with the latest school gossip from Joey. She planned to go over to the Chalet School in the afternoon and visit Miss Annersley and Miss Dene, but when she saw how pale Con looked over lunch and how she picked at her food, she decided to postpone her visit and get to the bottom of what was troubling the younger girl.

Con had made herself a small study up in the attics and disappeared there for most of the day. Joey was full of praise about the novel, although she admitted that she hadn’t read it.

“She’s being very secretive about it,” she said, cheerily, as they drank their Kaffee in the Saal. “I’ve been allowed to read certain extracts, but not for a while. Still, it’s nearly finished, so I’m not being too impatient about it – although I am curious, of course. Con says it’s quite modern. Do you remember how dreamy she used to be when she was younger? She’s like that all over again. Now tell me all about your wedding. I’m so sorry I couldn’t come over for it, but it happened awfully quickly.”

“We didn’t want to have a long engagement.” Mary-Lou said, simply.

“I suppose you have known Rix a long time – since you were ten or eleven, isn’t it? I couldn’t believe it when I heard the news from Jack. Shocked wasn’t the word! I had no idea you’d kept in touch with him.”

“I hadn’t, I literally ran into him in London in March. I suppose it has happened fast, but well, we’re very happy.” Mary-Lou said, wondering why she was justifying herself.

“I expect Mollie was thrilled – well, I know she was, she wrote to me not long afterwards. I expect Rix told you we had a slight disagreement, but which families don’t?” Jo skipped over the row casually. “All that matters is that Rix is here working with Jack in the San after all – and Mary-Lou, you’re my niece-by-marriage! I was so pleased!”

“I really must visit Len – does she come to Freudesheim much?” Mary-Lou asked.

“We’ve gone to see her mostly – of course, until Jack’s terrible accident. She came to visit him in the San when that happened. It’s quite far for her to come with Laura, though, and Reg prefers to drive her. He’s been rather busy at the San lately. It might be a nice idea for you and Rix to visit them later – I expect Reg and Rix will become great friends, Reg must only be a year or two older and they’ll be able to talk about medical things together while Len shows you my granddaughter.”

When Joey settled into her own study to do some writing, Mary-Lou took Con some Kaffee, deciding to ask her if she wanted to come with them to the Rosleinalpe that evening.

Con was sat at the table, writing on some notepaper, and she jumped when Mary-Lou came in.

“I brought you this – how’s the novel going?” Mary-Lou asked, in her chummy way.

“It’s all right – just the final two chapters left, then I’ll have to read through and make some corrections…” Con smiled, but she still looked pale.

“There’s nothing wrong, is there, Con?” Mary-Lou asked, sympathetically. “If you need to talk to someone, I’m always here.”

“Oh, I’m perfectly fine. I was just a bit shocked when Dad had his accident.” Con stated. “I’m OK now. I can take a break for a while, tell me all about your wedding. Wasn’t Maeve’s wonderful! Was your one similar? What was all that excitement at the reception? I couldn’t see properly because I was at the other end of the room, but Fliss said Rix punched someone?”

Mary-Lou gave her a shortened version of what had happened and described her wedding and honeymoon.

“Good for Rix! And then he proposed to you? How romantic.” Con said, some of her old personality showing through, just for a second, before she lapsed into semi-silence again.

#67: Author: Alice, Location: London, England

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 10:37 am

Thank you Mia, lovely to read some more.

#68: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 10:46 am

Bonus bit more - and the bunny has whispered some happy news for a post coming v soon!

Rix worked fairly late into the evening. Three or four hours of tidying had returned the study to something like order and he had established a basic filing system.

He wondered why Jack didn’t have a secretary or clerk and resolved to hire one if there were sufficient funds, as well as a decent bookkeeper.

After having the need for patient and staff confidentiality well drilled into him by Francis Rayner, Rix had been shocked to find medical notes and all sorts of confidential documentation lying casually around the office, accessible to anyone who dropped in.

Many of the documents were in French or German, which posed a problem, the only languages Rix had learnt at school were Latin and Greek and he had forgotten the small amount of German he had learnt from Rosa years before. He put all these papers in a pile and decided to ask Mary-Lou if she would translate them.

He sat at the huge and imposing desk, now clear of most of the clutter, lit a cigarette and started to read the letter he had found scrunched up besides the over-flowing wastepaper basket; Phil Graves’ letter of resignation from five months ago. He wondered if this would give him some clue before he had to tackle the accounts.

Last edited by Mia on Wed Jun 29, 2005 11:22 am; edited 1 time in total

#69: Author: Alice, Location: London, England

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 11:00 am

Ooo, I do like bonus bits. Curious about what's in Phil Grave's resignation letter.

#70: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 11:04 am

me too. Poor Rix, he has got a mess on his hands.
Also intriguiged as to what is up with Con...

thanks mia

#71: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 11:11 am

Thank you Mia. I wonder if Rix is in for a shock when he gets those documents translated!

Looking forward to the happy post Razz

#72: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 11:48 am

Thanks for the updates, Mia.

Still think Con knows more than she's letting on, and am intrigued about Phil's resignation. Did he know what Jack was up to?

#73: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 12:47 pm

Thanks Mia

Still so many questions about what's going on - but looking forward to the happy news!

Liz

#74: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 12:52 pm

wow you do like to pack it in quickly Mia - the suspense is killing me!

please please please more soon?

#75: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 1:11 pm

It's completely unfair of Jack to expect Rix to clear up the whole sorry mess, and I don't just mean in the office, the whole business of the San.

#76: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 1:32 pm

Rix was late back to Freudesheim and ate his warmed-up dinner in the kitchen without really tasting it. Mary-Lou kept giving him glances of concern over his silence and he wished Joey would leave them so they could talk. When Mary-Lou suggested a trip to see Len and the baby, he agreed at once.

“We could walk up – it’s still light.” Mary-Lou suggested. “Or we could take the railway up and walk down again. That might be better – I expect the baby will be asleep but we can have a look at her anyway.”

“Great idea. Is Con coming with us?”

“Oh, Con’s caught up in her writing.” Joey butted in, “I expect she’ll pop up to see Len tomorrow with me. You two go – it’s a nice walk back as well.”

Rix took Mary-Lou’s hand in his. On the rack-and-pinion railway, he told her in quiet tones about the mess he had found in the San, how most of the beds were empty and how furious Phil Graves had been in his resignation letter.

“I don’t know this Phil Graves – but he made some interesting points. I was reading between the lines of course, but he insinuated that some of the doctors weren’t treating patients properly so that they would require longer care – presumably so they could charge more - I don’t know. I really want to speak to him. I need to get Jack to be straight with me. I don’t know what’s going on, the paperwork is a mess –”

“Do you want to go back to London?” Mary-Lou asked, but she already knew how stubborn he was and could guess the answer.

“I can’t. I keep thinking about how shattered Jack and Jo would be if the San went under – I think it’ll be all right. As soon as I get to bottom of things, I can get help from some of my contacts – maybe. Sorry, I’m not making much sense. If you could translate some of those papers for me, that would be great.”

“I’ll come in with you tomorrow.”

“Thanks. Did you find out what was wrong with Con?”

“Not yet. There’s definitely something wrong though.” They both jumped down from the train and started to walk, still hand in hand, to the chalet Len and Reg lived in with their new daughter. “She’s terribly quiet – and not like she used to be in school either. I think it might take a day or two before she tells me what’s wrong, but I’m not giving up on her. Joey thinks it’s just the writing, but I don’t know – maybe she knows what’s going on at the San?”

“Maybe.” Rix replied, “It’ll be hard to ask her if she does without giving away the fact that something is wrong though. Which one do they live in?”

“That one, Joey said Len had alpine roses around the doors. It’s pretty, isn’t it? I do like the way it’s farther away from the others, for a bit of privacy.”

As they approached, however, they could hear shouting from the chalet and as they got nearer it was recognisable as Reg’s voice, loud and full of anger.

Last edited by Mia on Wed Jun 29, 2005 10:38 pm; edited 1 time in total

#77: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 1:42 pm

Oh dear. What a situation for Rix and OOAo to be plunged into.

Is Jo really as ignorant of the facts as she appears to be, or is she hiding her head in the sand?

#78: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 1:45 pm

I have just caught up on the last two updates. Thank you for them, Mia. Is Mary-Lou allowed to read confidential letters or is an exception made in this case?

#79: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 1:53 pm

Chair wrote:

Is Mary-Lou allowed to read confidential letters or is an exception made in this case?

Hmm, interesting point.. I will have to say wait & see.
----------------

“Should we go?” Mary-Lou asked Rix at once. They could hear some of Reg’s angry words.

“I’ve been there for years! I don’t see why your father’s put him in there above me… must be years younger as well! This is just nepotism – and he hasn’t got a clue how we work… No, I won’t be quiet, if I can’t say how I feel in my own home, where can I?”

Rix shook his head and knocked firmly on the door. The noise stopped immediately, to be replaced by a baby’s cry.

Len herself opened the door. “Hello,” she said, quietly. She looked upset but quickly recovered herself. “How nice to see you! Reg, look, Mary-Lou and Rix are here.”

“Hello, Reg.” Mary-Lou said, as they entered the chalet. Reg was standing by the stove, holding the baby, who was crying. “We’ve come to see your beautiful baby girl.”

Rix cleared his throat, feeling awkward. “Hello,” he said, trying to ignore Reg’s black scowl. “We’ve brought some presents for her. This is from us, and this is from my parents.”

“I’ll write to Aunt Mollie.” Len said, smiling for the first time, “Thank you so much. Would you like to see her, Mary-Lou?” Len took the baby from Reg and murmured love-nonsense to her. Laura stopped crying and Len passed her to Mary-Lou.

“Oh, she’s gorgeous – hello, darling! Oh, Rix, look how tiny she is!” Mary-Lou said at once. “What lovely blue eyes – and she has chestnut hair like yours, Len.”

Her words broke some of the tension that had built up and the four of them had quite a normal conversation. Laura was indeed a beautiful baby and seemed completely recovered from her colic. She seemed happy and content and Len was obviously a very competent mother. Reg also obviously adored his daughter and pretty wife, despite their angry words earlier.

“Are you getting a nanny for her?” Mary-Lou asked, as she passed the baby to Rix.

“No, I don’t think so,” Len said. “I can manage fine. Anyway, I can always leave her with Rosli if I have to. So – how long do you think you’ll stay in Switzerland?”

“Just a few months.” Rix said, decisively. “I’m going back to St Thomas’ in February next year.”

“Are you?” Reg asked, surprised.

“Yes – I’m still under contract. Besides, I like it there, I like operating, I hate the administration really.” Rix explained, wondering if this would make a difference to Reg’s attitude.

It didn’t seem to, Reg just appeared indifferent. Rix looked down at the baby in his arms, wishing he knew what to say to bring Reg round.

“She’s asleep.” He said to Len, adding, “You’re very lucky to have such a beautiful baby girl.”

*

Mary-Lou took his arm as they walked down the mountain path and he put his arm around her and kissed her cheek, “I do love you,” he said, grinning.

“I love you, too.” Mary-Lou replied, “I didn’t know you liked babies. Would you like to have children one day?” Her eyes flashed mischievously.

“Of course I do – one day.” Rix was looking at the sunset across the mountains and missed her expression.

“One day next March?” Mary-Lou continued, grinning.

He turned to her at once – “What? You mean -?”

She nodded, happily.

#80: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 3:37 pm

Wow what a lovely number of updates. I'm glad that we have been able to see a bit of a family and friends scene, even if Reg was annoyed. I hope that he comes to understand what has been happening soon enough - and if its nepotism surely Jack would be more inclined to pick his son in law over his nephew, or is this hinting at a tricky relationship between them? Thanks Mia

#81: Author: Rosy, Location: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 3:39 pm

*squeals*

Yay.

I do like your bunny Mia. Thankyou!

#82: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 3:57 pm

Maybe Jack had always picked Rix out to take over the San one day if none of his sons were interested in the San. Thanks for another great update. I'm really pleased about OOAO being pregnant.

#83: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 4:16 pm

yayness, ML is going to be 'busy' Smile

Hope Rix is pleased too!
Thanks Mia

#84: Author: Katie, Location: A Yorkshire lass in London

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 4:21 pm

Blimey - that was quick work on Rix and M-L's part! Very Happy

#85: Author: Alice, Location: London, England

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 4:26 pm

Wow, that was quick. I had wondered if the surprise would be pregnancy but then I decided that it was too soon.

#86: Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 4:28 pm

Hmmm, I wonder if Joey will say things about them getting married so quickly when OOAO starts to show. Hope Con is ok. Thanks, Mia.

#87: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 4:54 pm

Awwwww how lovely for Mary-Lou and Rix Very Happy

And I'm glad Len and Reg and baby Laura are happy together, even if Reg is stressed about the situation at the San (who can blame him either - this cousin-by-marriage suddenly waltzing in and taking charge)

Still wibbling about Con - is it her book that's worrying her - is she finding she can't actually write a book but feels pressured to do so?

Thanks Mia Kiss

Liz

#88: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 5:33 pm

Thank Mia, some lovely updates and such a lot to mull over.

#89: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 9:22 pm

ML "busy" already Exclamation

*squeals excitedly*

Mia - I like your bunny but I'm really really wibbling about the San, and Reg, and Len, and Con, and Jo..........

#90: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 4:36 am

Goodness, this is moving along!

*echoes francesn*

#91: Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 4:56 am

Thanks Mia, I'm dying to know what happens next!

#92: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 9:54 am

Thank you Mia. Wonderful news about a baby bettany. Hopefully the fact Rix is definately going back to St Thomas' will help with Reg and they can work together to help sort out the San.

#93: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 9:57 am

Well congratulations to them Very Happy

thanks Mia.

#94: Author: Rosy, Location: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 2:57 pm

I got a topic-watching-message, and I was so so hoping for an update.
*wibbles slightly*

Please Mia?
*thinks of bunny enticing treats*

#95: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 8:10 pm

Awww!
I hope Reg will see sense and that he isn't one of those who is not treating the patients.
Thanks Mia
(looking forward to more bonus posts Wink

)

#96: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 9:30 pm

They sat up late into the night in their bedroom, talking and making plans, both so thrilled with the news they couldn’t sleep.

"It’s a good job we didn’t have a long engagement," Mary-Lou said, momentarily anxious. "We’ve only been married two weeks and I must be five weeks pregnant."

"I don’t understand. You’re happy, aren’t you, and I am - I really am. Three weeks is nothing, anyway, first babies are always late. We’ll be back in London for the birth… You aren’t really worried what people might think?"

"No – well – no, not really. Only, I was thinking about what Gerard said, and –."

Rix disentangled himself from her arms. "I really don’t want to talk about him," he said, abruptly.

"Oh, Rix, I’m sorry." Mary-Lou said, at once. "I didn’t mean anything. I was just worrying over nothing."

"No, I’m sorry," he said, instantly contrite. "You know I love you; I’m thrilled we’re having a baby. I don’t want even the thought of him - Ellingham - spoiling today - it’s one of the best days of my life." he kissed her and she relaxed. "Come in to the San tomorrow with me, and get all the tests done, and when it’s confirmed we can tell everyone. Of course they’ll be happy for us."

*

The next morning, he drove Jack’s car to the San, Mary-Lou sitting next to him.

"I’m nervous," she confessed, gripping his arm as they walked from the car park to the San. "What will they do?"

"What, the tests? Don’t worry," Rix told her what to expect, ending with, "You’ll have check ups every so often. I thought I’d write to Frank and ask him to recommend an obstetrician in London - if we go back in January you’ll have time to get used to him. Or her, I suppose. That reminds me, did Jo say why Daisy wasn’t working at the San anymore? I looked through the staff lists yesterday and her name wasn’t on there."

"I don’t know." Mary-Lou admitted. "I’ll ask Joey later."

"No, don’t worry, I’ll try and talk to Laurie. Here we are - I'll ask them if they can fit you in today."

"There must be some perks to being Acting Head of the San." Mary-Lou laughed.

"Well, they’re not exactly busy." Rix said, glancing at two of the nurses who were gossiping and laughing in the reception area.

After seeing Mary-Lou into her appointment, Rix left her to go to Jack’s office. He couldn’t think of it as his own. It still felt strange to sit at Jack’s imposing desk and go through his papers, but he was gradually getting a clearer picture of how Jack managed his affairs. He scrawled his questions on a notepad and was surprised to find the page covered after only ten minutes. He read it through, sighed, and went to Jack’s private room, determined to stay until he got the answers he needed.

#97: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 9:35 pm

Has Daisy fell out too?
Thanks Mia

#98: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 9:54 pm

ooooh another potential problem!

mia - i dont know why you called this "A problem for the San" when it should really be "the San in serious trouble with many many many problems!"

#99: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 9:55 pm

Thanks Mia

I hope Rix can get some straight answers from Jack

Liz

#100: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 10:03 pm

Would love to see all those questions.

Thanks Mia.

#101: Author: Rosy, Location: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 10:25 pm

You mean, OOAOML was pregnant BEFORE she was married *swoons in a CS-like fashion*
Goodness me!

#102: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 10:35 pm

Blame the bunny - he was demanding Bettany offspring before the right time! Wink

Rix literally ran into Daisy Rosomon in the corridor outside Jack’s room, she squealed and kissed him.

"Rix! I was on my way to see you! Laurie told me you were standing in for Jack. Congratulations on your wedding! Where’s our one and only Mary-Lou? I’m dying to see her. Is she at Freudesheim?"

"Hello!" Rix had always been fond of Daisy and he kissed her warmly. "She’s here, she just had to go to - well, to the Obstetrics ward," he said, happily. "We haven’t told anyone yet."

"Oh, how marvellous! You’ll make wonderful parents. Are you going to see Jack? I’m just off to the Children’s ward - they brought a poor little mite with pneumonia in last night."

"Are you working here?" Rix asked, puzzled.

"Well, I help out, now that Peter’s in the Chalet School K.G. The children are visiting friends today, so I popped down for a few hours. I say, that’s all right isn’t it? I don’t mean to intrude."

"Aren’t you paid to work here?" Rix continued, completely baffled.

"No." Daisy’s looked depressed, "Laurie doesn’t like me working, really. I shouldn’t be here, I have to keep out of his way so he doesn’t get annoyed. I can’t help it though, Rix, I get so fed up sitting in our home by myself all day, especially when the children are away. Tony’s at prep school in England now, and Mary's only a baby - I leave her at Freudesheim or with a woman in the village when I come here.

Rix stared at her, noticing her expression. He shook his head, "But why..." he began, then reconsidered. It wasn’t the time to express his irritation at Laurie’s opinions, wrong though he thought they were.

"I’d like to work again." Daisy said, meaningfully. "Even if it was just for a month or two. I could help you a lot with ideas for the paediatrics department. I don’t need paying, I’d do it just for the interest." She grinned at him, looking a lot more like the old, familiar Daisy.

"That would be absolutely fantastic," Rix said, at once. "In fact, that’s the best news I’ve heard since I came here. Except for the baby, of course. Speaking of which, I’ll bring Mary-Lou up to the children’s ward after I’ve seen Jack, OK? I'll see you later."

Last edited by Mia on Mon Jul 18, 2005 3:02 pm; edited 1 time in total

#103: Author: Rosy, Location: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 10:39 pm

*bounces* yay more drabble
I think however dated Laurie may be to us, it was quite common in his age. And I am thrilled about an ickle OOAOML/Rix

#104: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 10:45 pm

Thanks Mia.

Glad Rix is thrilled too. Now, for the answers to all those questions....

#105: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 10:46 pm

Thanks Mia

Good to see Daisy - I hope she and Laurie are able to come to an agreement about her working.

Liz

#106: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 3:46 am

Don't think much of Laurie - and I don't care if his attitude was prevelant in the 1960's - it's still wrong.

Thanks Mia.

#107: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 5:45 am

Loads of updates, thank you.

Perhaps Laurie doesn't want Daisy to know too much of what is going on? Or they are doing so badly they can't afford her? Or???

I think Mary Lou reading the letters to translate them is reasonable, especially as Rix is not exactly getting any co-operation from anyone else at the moment. I'm assuming they're connected with the financial side?

#108: Author: Alice, Location: London, England

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 7:26 am

[quote="Mia] Where’s our one and only Mary-Lou? I’m dying to see her. Is she at Freudesheim?"
[/quote]

I love this as part of ordinary conversation. Poor Daisy, so many things aren't right on the Gortnez Platz (sp?).

#109: Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 8:24 am

Thanks Mia, really enjoying how this is all unfolding.

#110: Author: RuthY, Location: Anyone's guess

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 8:38 am

I go away for a couple of days and when I come back there's been loads of updates!

Yay ! Thanks Mia Exclamation

Loving this drabble!

Ruth

#111: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 8:42 am

Thanks Mia. Enjoying this.

The San really is in a mess though isn't it?

#112: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 10:49 am

I'm longing to see Rix getting the answers out of Jack. I sense that Jack will be writhing about his incompetence.

Hopeful smiley.

#113: Author: Lucy, Location: Leeds

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 12:58 pm

Somehow I think it'll take more than just one 'chat' with Jack before he answers Rix's list of questions.

personally, I amazed he had just one sheet of questions - I'd have thought he could've filled a whole note-pad full.

Looking forward to seeing just how much Jack is prepared to tell Rix.

#114: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 5:19 pm

Rix knocked perfunctorily on Jack’s door and marched in. Jack was awake, and reading a newspaper. He looked better than the previous day.

“Hello, how are you getting on?” he asked Rix, who sat down on a nearby chair and spread his papers out.

“Not very well. I’ve had a brief look through the accounts and I’ve made a list of recommendations, plans that could work. You’ll probably want to run them through someone else, for a second opinion – I don’t know. I think you should forget your idea of attracting patients from the UK and concentrate on providing medical care for the immediate area…”

Jack cut him off, “Rix, you do whatever you think is right. I do trust your judgement. Tell you what, why don’t you run your plans through Reg and Laurie, and if they agree, then you can go full steam ahead.”

“I’ve got some questions about the finances -”

“Laurie would be the best person to ask. He’s done the accounts for me for months now.”

Rix blinked, “But you said yesterday that you hadn’t let Laurie see the accounts for ages. Jack, I can’t help you if you’re not honest with me.”

“I didn’t say that.” Jack said, frowning, “Did I? I couldn’t think straight yesterday. I was in a lot of pain.”

“I know - I’m just trying to help.” Rix said, biting his lip.

“I know you are, and I’m very grateful. If I hadn’t hurt my blessed leg… Let me think. You’re right. I’ve been looking after the books alone since I came back from London with the new loans. Loan, I mean.”

“Which is it, loan or loans? Come on, Jack – Uncle Jack - I need to know.”

“I’ve got two loans – I owe,” Jack named a terrifyingly high sum, “And the second is secured against Freudesheim. I just don’t know where all the money’s going. Or why we’ve no patients. I never used to think about the money, you know, only about fighting disease, but now – it seems to be all I think about. I’ve got to provide for my family and I can’t see a way out of this mess.”

Rix picked up his papers, regretfully. Jack obviously knew nothing further; he had clearly buried his head in the sand for far too long. The only thing Rix could do now was take the accounts to a professional and press ahead with his rather drastic cost-cutting plans for the San - with or without Reg and Laurie's support.

He left the room, completely depressed.

He would have felt better, had he known, that help wouldn't be long forthcoming from some rather unexpected sources.

Last edited by Mia on Fri Jul 01, 2005 5:21 pm; edited 1 time in total

#115: Author: Rosy, Location: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 5:21 pm

Oooooh.

#116: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 6:39 pm

I think Jack is trying to hide a lot!
Poor RIx sorting this mess

#117: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 6:45 pm

Has someone been siphoning money off from the San?

Thanks Mia, intriguing.

#118: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 7:53 pm

wow, just caught up on the last few pages of this. Its great. *wondering who will be the one to give Rix a helping hand in this situation* *Also wondering how the San got inot that state

#119: Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 9:50 pm

Did Jack fall down the stairs because he had a stroke? Only he doesn't seem to be quite with it...

#120: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 10:05 pm

Daisy trained hard to get where she is - I can't remember what she trained as I have to admit. Does Laurie expect her to throw that all away? That is ridiculous whethere it was the 60s or not.

#121: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 10:09 pm

It's odd but some years ago, a friend who was in a dire financial situation, which his wife did not know about, had a nasty accident and I got her to call in an accountant once I'd seen the books.

He said that lots of people in that situation have accidents and he thought it was a subconscious way of offloading the responsibility when they got to the end of their tether. I thought of that as soon as we learned that Jack fell down stairs.

Poor Rix! It's a bit much for someone so young Crying or Very sad

I rather wonder if Lesley has hit on the reason.

Confused

Thank you Mia.

#122: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 12:49 am

Thanks Mia

Glad to know there's some help coming - wondering what the source will be.

Liz

#123: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 9:00 am

The first ally Rix made was Mary-Lou’s doctor, whom he met as he went over to collect her.

“Hi, I’m Neil Sheppard, you must be Mr Bettany? Good to meet you, and many congratulations, by the way.” Neil shook Rix’s hand, warmly.

“Then it’s definite? That’s wonderful!” Rix said, a huge grin on his face.

“It’s very early still, but yes. You’ll be parents next April so you’ll have to start thinking of some names. Mary-Lou is simply over the moon – she’s just having a cup of coffee in my office with me. You will join us, won’t you?”

“Thanks – I’d love to.” Rix replied, “Do you know Mary-Lou from when she went to school up here?”

“No, just after. She was visiting Joey Maynard when I first met my wife.” Neil explained. “Grizel is very fond of Mary-Lou, you must come and visit us for dinner one night, we live in Ste Cecilie with our little boy.”

Rix rubbed his tired eyes. “That would be nice, thanks. It would be good to see Grizel again.” He paused as a thought occurred to him, “Dr Sheppard – you do know that Jack asked me to take charge pro tem.?”

Neil looked bemused, “Of course – I couldn’t come to meet you yesterday as I had a couple of difficult births to attend to, but Jack did tell me, yes.”

Rix relaxed slightly, “I see. I just wondered if you knew.”

Neil looked sympathetic, “Finding things a bit difficult? We’ll have to have a chat about how I can help. I’m sure I can…” He opened the door to his office, “Mary-Lou, I’ve found the proud father-to-be and he’s going to join us for coffee. You’ll have to excuse me and I’ll fetch it.”

When Neil had so tactfully left them, Rix kissed Mary-Lou at once, “I don’t have the words, darling. I’m so completely happy,” he said, quietly. “I just can’t wait until our son or daughter is born…”

“Which do you want?” Mary-Lou asked, her own happiness unmistakable.

“I don’t mind, I’ll be happy with whichever comes along. What about you?”

“I want lots of children. Is that all right? I was an only child, and it was lonely sometimes, even though I had Mother and Gran, so I want a houseful now.”

“Well, we’ll have to see, won’t we?” he teased, releasing her as Neil returned with the coffee.

*

After a pleasant but necessarily quick cup of coffee, Rix went back to his own office, with Mary-Lou.

“I’ve put all the German papers in one pile. I’m pretty sure most are invoices. You know, young Cecil’s right, I might see if I can get some German lessons. Here we are – just the gist will do.” A knock at the door interrupted them and Rix called for them to come in.

“Sorry to interrupt.” Laurie Rosomon said, shortly. “Jack said you wanted to run some ideas past me? Hello, Mary-Lou.” He nodded, then frowned. “Aren’t those confidential documents?”

“I’m translating them...” Mary-Lou said, suppressing the urge to ask what was wrong with him. He had always been so matey in the past, now he looked tired, harassed and very disagreeable.

#124: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 9:05 am

Awwwww! So happy for Mary-Lou and Rix

Glad Neil Sheppard was friendly

Wonder if Laurie knows what's in the papers

Thanks Mia

Liz

#125: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 9:08 am

Thank you Mia! Yay for Rix and Mary-Lou!

Glad Neil is on Rix's side and he's got Daisy's support now he just needs to get Reg and Laurie onside...

#126: Author: Lucy, Location: Leeds

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 9:34 am

Hope Laurie's not going to make to much of a fuss about Mary-Lou translating the papers.

Can't believe just how cagey and unfriendly bothe Laurie and Reg are being. bBginning to wonder just exactly what they know.

Thanks for the updates Mia Very Happy

#127: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 10:28 am

Glad about Mary-Lou and Rix, and nice to see more of Neil Shepherd.

Thanks, Mia

#128: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 11:34 am

Wonderif Laurie and Reg have a reason to recent Rix coming and making enquiries?

Glad Neil is friendly - and Mary Lou can be designated a medical secretary for the purpose of translating so medical in confidence is not breached.

Thanks Mia.

#129: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 4:02 pm

Oooooooooooh so many wonderous ans shiny posts!! Thank you Mia so much, Ive really enjoyed catching up with the Bettany's

#130: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 5:11 pm

I'm glad Neil is being friendly to Rix. Rix needs friends at this time. It would be nice to see more of the Maynards, if it could be possible?

#131: Author: RuthY, Location: Anyone's guess

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 8:01 pm

Glad Neil is being friendly to Rix. Rix has just had a big responsibility given to him and needs support. Wish Reg and Laurie could be nice to Rix. Thanks, Mia Exclamation

Ruth

#132: Author: Caroline OSullivan, Location: Reading, Berkshire, UK

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 8:02 pm

Thanks Mia Very Happy

This is fabulous.

#133: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 9:45 pm

I thought we’d all been lectured enough about not letting third parties have access to private documentation,” Laurie stared at Rix, coldly. “Anyway, I haven’t got all day – Jack said you had ideas, so let’s hear them.”

“You’ll get them as soon as possible, in a formal memo, to the whole staff.” Rix said, losing his temper. “And no, it’s not ideas, it will be policy. Thanks. Close the door behind you, won’t you?”

Laurie’s reply was to nearly take the door off its hinges.

“You shouldn’t rise to it.” Mary-Lou said, but she was rather shocked by Laurie’s unprovoked unpleasantness.

“It’s fine.” Rix said, stubbornly. “Don’t worry about it. I can handle it.”

“But you and he used to be good friends, Rix. Is this all because Jack put you in charge? It isn’t worth it, making enemies like this.” Mary-Lou looked very concerned.

“What can I do about it?” Rix said, running his hand through his dark hair. “I can’t tell them why Jack wanted me to take charge, can I? If I tell him just how fast this place is losing money, he’ll tell everyone and they’ll all walk. I just wish I’d never come here.”

Mary-Lou came over to him at once, “You’ll sort it out, I know you will.”

He shook his head, “I need to finish going through these damned accounts. Why don’t you go back to Freudesheim and tell Joey about the baby? I’ll be here till late tonight.”

“I’ll take these with me then,” Mary-Lou scooped up the papers and tucked them into her handbag. “Laurie knows I wouldn’t show them to anyone – he must just be upset about Jack’s accident, like everyone is. I’ll write down what each one says, OK?”

“OK – thanks.” Rix said, despondently. “I’m sorry, I know how awful this is for you.”

“It’s fine,” Mary-Lou said, shortly, and left before he could see how upset she really was.

#134: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 9:54 pm

Do Laurie & Reg have their own reasons for not wanting an 'outsider' (Rix) looking at... anything?

#135: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 10:01 pm

I feel sorry for Rix having to put up with Rix's unpleasantness. I look forward to finding out why Laurie is behaving in this way.

#136: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 10:03 pm

That was rather nasty of Laurie - inclinded toward thinking he may know more than he's saying.

Thanks Mia.

#137: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 11:01 pm

Laurie Rosomon stormed through the San, completely enraged. He reached his own tiny office and slammed the door closed, throwing himself onto his chair and staring out of the window.

It was crucial that he knew what was going on! He had protested vociferously when he had heard that Jack Maynard had appointed Rix as Head even if it was only temporary. Rix was young – not even thirty yet, but Laurie knew how clever he was.

Cooling down, he considered carefully. There was still some time, but it would only be a few months before Rix worked out what had happened. He would have to move very quickly if he was to sort everything out before it was too late.

#138: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 11:06 pm

Thanks for posting again so quickly, Mia. I look forward to more of the story.

#139: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 11:09 pm

Yep, thought he was involved - poor Daisy - don't think she has any idea.

Thanks Mia.

#140: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 11:16 pm

Can I just say.... it may not be as it seems...
Twisted Evil

*giggles*
*runs away quickly to hide*

#141: Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 11:20 pm

That was an evil giggle, Mia - from which I think we may safely infer that Laurie certainly knows more about this situation than he's letting on. The $64,000 question must be - is he trying to save his own skin or Jack's?

As for the question of confidentiality over Mary Lou translating the documents for Rix, which came up a couple of posts back (I've just caught up on several at one go) she certainly could be signed on as a temporary secretary for the purpose, or even, I suspect, an official translator - either would be bound by confidentiality rules.

#142: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 11:21 pm

Mia wrote:

Can I just say.... it may not be as it seems...
Twisted Evil

*giggles*
*runs away quickly to hide*

Well I knew that! I have a little experience with cliffs myself, you know! Wink

#143: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 11:27 pm

Lesley wrote:

Well I knew that! I have a little experience with cliffs myself, you know! Wink

Lesley, you are the Queen of Cliffs!
(Please inset bowing down smiley that I can't find! Very Happy

)

#144: Author: RuthY, Location: Anyone's guess

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 10:49 am

Thanks Mia, wonder why lauries acting like that

Ruth

#145: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 1:37 pm

It was nearly one in the morning when Rix let himself into Freudesheim with his key. He was very tired and his head was aching from trying to make sense of the accounts.

He had forgotten about Bruno, who met him in the hallway, with as boisterous a welcome as usual.

“Ssh! Bruno, down boy! Oh, stop it, you ridiculous animal!” he hissed, as Bruno launched his full fifteen or sixteen stone on him, licking his face lovingly. “You’ll wake the whole house.”

Con came out of the Saal, switching on the electric light. At the sight of Rix trying to deal with the large dog, she giggled.

“He’s awful, isn’t he? Come on, Bruno – go in here!” she shut him into the Salon. “You’re awfully late, Rix. Have you been at the San all this time?”

He nodded, his doctor’s eye noticing that now she had stopped laughing, she looked rather strained and very pale, completely unaware that Con could’ve said the same of him. Con was fully dressed, despite the late hour, and she had ink on her face and hands.

“Yes, there’s rather a lot to sort out. What about you – burning the midnight oil?

“I was waiting up for you, actually. Mary-Lou said you needed help at the San. I can type, and I do know French and German fluently. I suppose, I’m asking if I can have a job. I’ve finished my book and well, I could do with the money, even though I expect you won’t be able to pay me much.”

“No, things are pretty tight,” Rix admitted, realising that if Con were to work at the San, it wouldn’t be long before she found that out for herself, “However, if you wanted a few hours a week, that would be marvellous. I’ll sort something out. Can you start tomorrow?”

Con agreed that she could, and they both went upstairs to bed.

Mary-Lou was fast asleep and Rix was careful not to wake her, much as he wanted to discuss things. It was different now she was carrying their baby, he would have to be careful not to worry her, however difficult it would be to keep all his problems to himself.

#146: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 1:54 pm

Oh oh! Shutting out one's new wife is NOT a recipe for marital happiness.

Wonder if that's why Laurie doesn't want Daisy to wrk at the San?

The only answer to these questions is another episode of the drabble.

#147: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 2:01 pm

Thanks Mia Very Happy

Poor Rix, dont shut out ML completely!!

#148: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 3:22 pm

Four weeks later, Joey told Mary-Lou that Miss Annersley and Miss Dene had returned from their respective holidays in England and would be coming for English tea.

“I spoke to Hilda first thing this morning, she says she simply cannot wait until this afternoon. She wondered if Rix would be joining us?”

Mary-Lou looked up from her knitting, “I can ask – I don’t see why not. I know he’s busy, but it wouldn’t take long. Can I use your telephone?”

“Of course – though the question is ‘may you?’” Jo gurgled, a twinkle in her eye. Since the news about Jack’s leg had continued to be good, Jo had quickly become her old, irrepressible self. Mary-Lou giggled and went to phone. She hoped that Rix would be able to come to Freudesheim. She had barely seen him for more than a few hours a week, he often crept in and out while she was sleeping and thought nothing of even working on Sundays. Con’s hours had also increased lately, and Mary-Lou had felt slightly put out that her services were no longer required as a translator.

Con answered his direct line and told her that Rix was busy. Mary-Lou tried to swallow her irritation, but it was difficult.

“I need to speak to him straight away, it’s very important.” she said. “Where is he?”

“He’s talking to Daisy – hold on, Mary-Lou, I’ll try and get him for you,” Con said at once, then Mary-Lou heard low voices and a few seconds later, Rix was on the line.

“Is anything wrong? The baby - ” he asked at once.

“No, of course not.” Mary-Lou said in reply. “I just wondered if you could come back for four, so we could have tea with Hilda and Rosalie. They’re longing to see you – and so am I, I haven’t spent any time with you for weeks, not properly. Do say you can take the afternoon off and we can go for a walk to the Auberge afterwards…”

“I’m sorry, but I can’t – I’m up to my eyes.” Rix said, apologetically. “Though I really could do with speaking to Hilda Annersley about the school’s medical requirements… Would you do me a favour, darling, and ask her to let me know a convenient time to meet? Thanks. I’ll try not to be too late home.”

“No, Rix!” Mary-Lou lost her temper, “Get one of your secretaries to phone her! I’m supposed to be your wife!”

“What’s that supposed to mean? Look, I’m sorry, I’ve got to go. I’m in the middle of something. Don’t worry about it; I’ll ring her myself.”

“Con said you were talking to Daisy Rosomon,” Mary-Lou continued, miserably, “She doesn’t even work at the San, so I don’t see why you can’t come.”

Rix sighed, “She’s just accepted a position in Paediatrics, actually. I don’t want to argue with you over the phone, but I am very busy. I’ll be home at seven and I’ll see you then.”

She hung up on him, slamming the receiver down with force.

#149: Author: Lucy, Location: Leeds

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 5:14 pm

Oh dear.

Hoping Mary Lou and Rix manage to sort things out and continue to support each other.

Wondering how Laurie is going to feel about Daisy's appointment.

#150: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 5:31 pm

Rix talk to mary Lou - the very worst thing you can do to a brand new and pregnant wife is keep things from her.

Hope they can settle this - and that we find out more Laughing

Thanks Mia.

#151: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 8:19 pm

Uh-Oh so much wibbling Shocked

#152: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 9:10 pm

Oh dear

Thanks Mia.

Wonder if the reason Laurie didn't want Daisy working there had to do with whatever he's been up to, rather than his dated chauvenistic idea?

#153: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 9:49 pm

I feel sorry for Mary-Lou with Rix not having any time for her. Rix shouldn't be causing her to stress.

#154: Author: RuthY, Location: Anyone's guess

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 8:47 am

oh dear

hope they can sort things out

thanks Mia!

Ruth

#155: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 9:22 am

oh dear, don't like them arguing.
But am v curious to know what's going on with Laurie.
And happy that neil Sheppard is being nice to Rix!

Thanks Mia, great updates.

#156: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 9:56 am

Thanks Mia, great updates but so many questions!

#157: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 10:52 am

Might hormones be the answer to OOAO mood? though, I must say, it wasn't nice of Rix to speak in that way. If he explained the problem, she would understand.

#158: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 11:55 am

Very complicated! I suspect everyone Shocked

I even wondered why Neil Sheppard was being friendly Question

#159: Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 12:19 pm

Fabulous updates, Mia - the intrigue, the suspense... Thank-you very much.

#160: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 12:52 pm

Thanks Mia

*hoping that Rix and Mary-Lou will talk, kiss & make up*

Liz

#161: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 3:26 pm

Rix did his best to leave early, but it was still nearer eight than seven when he got back to Freudesheim, with flowers for Mary-Lou.

He found her in their bedroom. She was red-eyed and upset and he felt terrible.

“I’m so sorry,” he said, quietly. “I know this isn’t much fun for you, and I would’ve liked to have been here for tea with Hilda and Rosalie, but you know what a mess the San is in. It’s only for a few months, and then we can go back to London.”

“It’s fine,” Mary-Lou said, but she ignored the flowers and turned away from his kiss. “Joey explained that a doctor can’t call his time his own. I don’t know why I expected you to be here, as obviously the San comes first.”

“Don’t, please. I said I was sorry. I’ll make it up to you.” He said, taking hold of her hand.

“Will you be like this when our baby’s born?” Mary-Lou continued, in a rather hard little voice. Deep down she knew she was behaving unreasonably, but his lack of interest earlier had cut her to the quick and she was hurting and the only way she could feel better was to hurt him too. “What will I have to tell her? That her father cares less about us than about his career? Your hours will be just as long in London, I’m not stupid.” She pulled away from him.

“Mary-Lou, please stop this. You know that’s not true. I love you and our baby more than anything. My hours aren’t as long in London. Have you eaten? I’ll take you out to dinner in one of the hotels and we can really talk.”

“No thanks, I have a headache.” Mary-Lou said, miserably. “I just want to be left alone. It’s what I’m used to after all.”

“You need to eat, though. I’ll bring you something. You can’t skip meals when you’re pregnant.”

“What do you care?” Mary-Lou retorted, rudely.

“Why are you being like this?” Rix asked, “You know I care,” he sighed, “I’ll leave you alone if that’s what you want.”

“It is.” Mary-Lou insisted, stubbornly and after a few seconds’ pause, he left her to herself.

#162: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 3:41 pm

Poor Rix! He must feel everyone is against him.

Poor ML, too. She knows she is being unreasonable but can't help it.

They really haven't been together long enough to cope with this sort of thing Crying or Very sad

#163: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 4:29 pm

hope rix realises it's mostly the hormones that are making her like this.
Thanks Mia!

#164: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 4:44 pm

Oh dear!

Come on Mary-Lou - he's making an effort - at least talk to him, even if you don't want to go out for dinner.

Don't give up Rix - keep trying

Thanks Mia

Liz

#165: Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 6:05 pm

*Pokes Rix* (very gently)

#166: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 6:23 pm

Would banging their heads gently together help?

#167: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 6:38 pm

Always!
Thanks Mia

#168: Author: RuthY, Location: Anyone's guess

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 7:21 pm

Thanks Mia

Ruth

#169: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 8:11 pm

Oh poor both of them - Rix for being landed with the mess in the San, which he really didn't want, and Mary-Lou for feeling so abandoned. Hope they can sort it out soon, but have the feeling that it won't be that easy.

thanks Mia.

Now, back to Laurie... Wink

#170: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 11:25 pm

I can see where both Rix and Mary Lou are coming from in this situation. Hopefully things will be easier when they go back to London.

#171: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 1:50 am

Rix, be patient..and watch your time-keeping!

#172: Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 12:15 pm

They definitely need to spend more time together, and to talk. Rix may feel that he can't talk to Mary-Lou about things going wrong at the San, perhaps out of loyalty or because of confidentiality. ((Mary-Lou))

Has Con's problem been sorted out yet? Does she have writer's block, perhaps? And has Phil done something wrong that Rix has yet to find out about?

*wibbling slightly*

#173: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 1:08 pm

Things continued to be strained between the Bettanys for the next two months. Rix tried to spend more time with Mary-Lou and come back to Freudesheim as early as he could in the evenings, but Mary-Lou was remote and tearful, and he gradually found himself staying later than ever to avoid his wife’s reproaches or cold silences.

Mary-Lou cried bitterly about him working with the San’s pretty nurses and even with Daisy and Con, despite his constant reassurances and frequently accused him of not caring for her or their baby. She was also plagued by dreadful morning sickness, which didn’t help matters.

“I’m hardly likely to be interested in Con, Mary-Lou,” Rix said, in answer to her accusations one morning, “She’s my cousin. You’re behaving irrationally because of your hormones.” His voice became gentler as he continued. “I love you, why would I need to look at another woman when I’ve got you? You’re all I ever wanted.”

She found herself crying again, but this time it was out of relief and in his arms.

“I don’t want us to fight like this ever again.” he added, “I’ll cut down my hours – now Daisy’s working full-time, she’s covering a lot of the ward work I’ve been doing. I’ve got to go to Interlaken with the accounts next week – would you like to come along? We could stay for a few days, and I’d only have to spend an hour a day with the accountant. What do you think? I’d like us to spend more time together, by ourselves.”

“I’m frightened about the baby, Rix. I don’t want anything to happen to her.” Mary-Lou confessed her greatest fear.

“I know, but please don’t worry about it, darling. Women have babies every day. Jo’s had eleven! I know you’ve had a bad time, but it should ease now – or within the next few weeks anyway. If it doesn’t, I’ll prescribe something to take away the sickness.”

Mary-Lou nodded, and wiped her eyes, “I’ll come to Interlaken, thank you.”

“Oh, good! I’ll book us into a decent hotel – it’ll be like a second honeymoon, won’t it? And you can show me round, like you’ve been meaning to.”

“OK,” Mary-Lou agreed.

Rix let her go to continue dressing. He longed to spend the day with her but he knew he couldn’t. Things were worse than ever at the San and he didn’t really know how he was going to cope if the accountant couldn’t find the reason for the continual loss the San had made over the past three years.

He tried not to think about it and kissed Mary-Lou on her forehead, “So you think the baby will be a girl then?” he asked, grinning.

Last edited by Mia on Tue Jul 05, 2005 1:19 pm; edited 1 time in total

#174: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 1:12 pm

Thanks Mia - so glad they've made up - hope they keep it up

*wibbling about the San*

Liz

#175: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 1:15 pm

At least they're starting to sort their problems out and Rix's workload has been cut down.

#176: Author: Lucy, Location: Leeds

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 1:16 pm

A second honeymoon whilst still supposedly on their first honeymoon - thats not bad going!!

Hope they manage to have a lovely time at Interlaken and Mary-Lou can forget about all her fears.

Also wibbling about the San

#177: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 1:28 pm

Emma A wrote:

Has Con's problem been sorted out yet? Does she have writer's block, perhaps? And has Phil done something wrong that Rix has yet to find out about?

Hmm: No, no and no

*giggles* Twisted Evil

Thanks for all your lovely comments, I will get back to writing now

#178: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 1:30 pm

Thank you Mia. I am glad things are better fo Rix and ML now, but I am worried that they have spent the first few months of their marriage in such a situation Confused

#179: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 2:28 pm

Rix left for the San in a much cheerier mood. The last two months had been difficult and although he understood why Mary-Lou had withdrawn so much, it hadn’t made it any easier to bear.

At least she had now stopped saying that he didn’t care about the baby, it had hurt a lot to hear her say that, even though deep down he knew he had been putting the San first.

I wish I’d never heard of the blessed San, he thought, as he entered by the main door, pulling his tie straight as he went, and nodded to the receptionist.

He saw Laurie and Reg talking in the corridor and said hello to them. They ignored him and carried on their conversation, switching to German, as they always did. Their not-so-subtle way of telling him he wasn’t welcome. As always, he ignored them.

The other doctors had started to settle down and get used to him, it had been a long and slow process, but finally his ideas were starting to pay off. The San now catered for a far larger group of people and the children’s wards in particular were thriving under the capable management of Dr Daisy Rosomon. A small Accident and Emergency ward catered for skiing accidents and similar mishaps on a more professional basis than before and Neil Sheppard had happily taken on a great deal of extra responsibility for the Obstetrics ward. The various other departments had mostly come into line with the new policy and as Rix had been fairly ruthless in cutting unnecessary costs, a great deal of the loan had been repaid.

He was still mystified about the fact that the losses were so acute, but he hoped the accountant would be able to tell him why.

One mystery had been solved, however. A very young, very shy nurse had approached him one day and asked if she could speak to him in private, and what she had told him had gone some way to explaining Jack’s accident and erratic behaviour afterwards.

#180: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 2:34 pm

sounds like jack has been a naughty boy! Cross over with Intrigues and infidelities, perhaps!? Wink

thanks mia

#181: Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 2:34 pm

Mia, you accidentally didn't finish that post - you forgot to tell us what the nurse told Rix.

Really enjoying this, and impressed by the speed at which you're writing.

#182: Author: RuthY, Location: Anyone's guess

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 4:42 pm

Thanks Mia!

Am amazed at the speed at which you write at!

Ruth

#183: Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 4:58 pm

*wibbling at the thought that Rix might prescribe thalidomide for Mary-Lou's morning sickness (it is set about that time, isn't it?)*

Thanks for the updates, Mia. *settles down to thinking of more reasons to explain Con's odd behaviour* Smile

#184: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 5:08 pm

Thanks Mia

Looking forward to hearing what the nurse has to tell Rix

Liz

#185: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 5:25 pm

Emma A wrote:

That thought crossed my mind too.... Confused

*looking forward to more, Mia!*

#186: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 6:50 pm

Emma A wrote:

I didn't even think of that
*wibbling too*
But Mia what did the nurse say?

#187: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 6:53 pm

I look forward to finding out what caused Jack's erratic behaviour.

#188: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 7:02 pm

Also wondered about thalidomide - and worried that we've now given Mia the idea!

Also - how appallingly rude and bad mannered of Laurie and Reg - if I were Rix I wouldn't just ignore it, I'd confront them about it.

Intrigued about what the young nurse is going to say.

Thanks Mia.

#189: Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 7:11 pm

Haven't had time to comment recently but have really enjoyed the recent updates. Am glad that Rix is making some progress but was alos worried by what he may prescribe Mary-Lou. And grrr to Reg and Laurie.
Intrigued to know more about Jack's accident.

#190: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 10:26 pm

Lesley wrote:

Also wondered about thalidomide - and worried that we've now given Mia the idea!

I hadn't even thought of that! I forgot that was early 60s... don't wibble too much! Smile

Here's some more
-------------------------

The nurse, Marlies, was very timid and her English was practically non-existent, but eventually he had managed to understand that she wanted to show him something. She had appeared quite upset, so he had gone with her at once, to a small room that was mainly used for storing medical dressings and surgical garments.

Rix had had to suppress a shudder as he followed Marlies in, the lack of windows made the tiny room unbearable for anyone as claustrophobic as he was.

Marlies opened a tiny cupboard to show a stash of empty and half-empty whisky and schnapps bottles. There were about fifteen in total, most being empty.

“Thank you.” Rix said, in his tentative German as he surveyed them, “I’ll look into it.”

“Herr Doktor Maynard…” she began, hesitantly.

“They belong to Herr Doktor Maynard?” Rix asked, his surprise evident.

She nodded and told him haltingly that she and another nurse had seen him drunk the night he fell down the stairs. The other nurse had not wanted to tell, but Marlies was sure that he needed to be helped. She had also told Rix that Jack was still drinking in his private ward.

“I see. Thank you. You did the right thing in telling me and you won’t get into trouble, I promise.” Rix was amazed his German could be so fluent, but Con had helped him a lot over the past few months.

He remembered the time Jack had met him in London, how he had smelt of whisky, and a lot seemed to fall into place. He still hadn’t tackled Jack about it, but was determined to do so once he and Mary-Lou returned from Interlaken.

*

In his office, Rix sat at his desk, going through medical journals, looking for something to help Mary-Lou with her morning sickness. Nothing immediately came to mind, so he pushed them away and lit a cigarette.

He wondered where Con was, he was sure she had already left Freudesheim before he had, but it was ten past ten and she wasn’t in yet. He had become increasingly worried about her. It was obvious the financial problems at the San were not causing her anxiety, but over three months, she had become quieter and quieter.

#191: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 10:42 pm

Glad Rix and Mary-Lou have sorted things out. Hope the trip to Interlaken goes okay. (wibbling there for some reason!)

Still intrigued about Con, and thik Reg and Laurie need a good kick up the bum!

Thanks Mia

#192: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 10:57 pm

Thank you Mia - and as a child of the early sixties myself, I'm really glad my mum didn't take anything for morning sickness....

#193: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 11:43 pm

Thanks Mia

*wibbling about Con*

And now we've established no thalidomide - I hope Rix isn't smoking around Mary-Lou and Mary-Lou isn't smoking at all

*wants a bonny healthy baby for them please*

Liz

#194: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 11:58 pm

It's a pity they didn't have the alcohol AA in those days to help Jack with his drinking problem.

#195: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 12:45 am

Hmmm, Conn isn't pregnant too, is she?

#196: Author: keren, Location: Israel

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 9:59 am

nikkie wrote:

I didn't even think of that
*wibbling too*
But Mia what did the nurse say?

I think it crossed our mind because of the pharmacy drabble, where it was mentioned, then I thought, oh, that is the wrong drabble.

#197: Author: keren, Location: Israel

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 10:01 am

My doctor told me that there is not anything for morning sickness and that it will soon be over. ha ha ha.

#198: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 11:21 am

That evening, Rix hunted through the drawers of Jack’s study in Freudesheim and unearthed six more empty liquor bottles. He lined them up on Jack’s desk and wondered what on earth he was going to say to Jo. It was obvious that Jack had been drinking secretly for months, if not longer.

Rix sat down, feeling angry that Jack had chosen this route instead of facing up to his problems. Alcoholism at least explained why Jack had been so unpleasant at times over the past two years, but it was unfair that he expected others to step in and solve his innumerable problems for him.

He wondered if Reg and Laurie knew, he would be very surprised if Reg at least didn’t suspect something.

He sighed, he was fed up to the back teeth with Laurie and Reg and their hostility and decided the next time he encountered the snide comments, the deliberate use of German or their antagonistic behaviour, he was going to confront it, even if it meant them handing in their resignations. It was awkward that they were married to Len and Daisy though.

The door opened quietly, and Con came in. She cast a rather startled look at all the whisky bottles.

#199: Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 11:54 am

I'd like to submit to Rix the motto of King Arthur's knights when confronted by the beast of Caer Bannog... "Run awaaaay!" Take Mary-Lou back to London and don't look back!

That said, this is very good, Mia! Thank-you.

#200: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 12:03 pm