A Problem for the San
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#301:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Jul 14, 2005 12:09 pm

Cath V-P wrote:
Tartan nightdress????!!!!! Not exactly subtle for an arsonist is it?! Very Happy


Maybe that's the plan - draw attention away from her Wink

Thanks for all the updates Mia. Glad Rix got the kids out safe and sound.

 

#302:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Jul 14, 2005 2:57 pm

Rix took Mary-Lou to the San as soon as they got back to the Gornetz Platz and the two of them met with Neil Sheppard to see if he was able to confirm for definite that the Bettanys were going to be the parents of twins “or even more” as he had jokingly suggested.

“I don’t expect you’ll be able to tell us for definite, Neil.” Rix said, holding Mary-Lou’s hand. “Surely it’s too early? And of course, we may not know for sure until the birth.”

Neil chuckled, “Do I take it that obstetrics is not one of your specialities?”

“Not at all! Six months’ placement when I was first training and then nothing, really. I’ve been trying to read up on it when I can find the time.”

“Well, have you heard of ultrasound scanning?”

Mary-Lou shook her head.

“Yes – they were discussing it once in a meeting I was at. But it’s for looking at tumours, isn’t it?” Rix asked.

“A pal of mine in Glasgow has done a lot of research on the use of ultrasound for scanning the foetus. They’ve produced a few - very few machines called Diasonograph machines. We haven’t got one here, but there’s a Klinik I know in Basle that have just taken delivery of one. Another friend is in charge and if you wanted to know I could ask if he could fit you in for an examination. You’d be able to see your baby on screen.” He finished, as Mary-Lou looked interested. “And of course, if it was twins you’d see two babies. What do you think?”

“I don’t know.” Mary-Lou said, “I mean, obviously I’d like to see the babies on a screen, but is it safe?”

“Well, from listening to the heartbeats, I can definitely say it’s going to be twins, at least.” Neil said. “Congratulations. As for the ultrasound scanning, we can leave that for the moment. Its there if you want it.”

“Will having two babies hurt more?” Mary-Lou asked Rix when they were alone, going back to Freudesheim.

He laughed and kissed her, “They say you forget the pain as soon as you hold your baby in your arms.”

“Easy for a man to say!” Mary-Lou retorted. “By the way, when will our chalet be ready? We can’t live at Freudesheim forever, especially if I’ve got two babies to look after.”

“We’ll be back in London for the birth, won’t we? Why? Do you want to stay out here?” Rix asked, surprised. “My work is in London.”

“Oh, I know. But if Jack’s going to have to go to that place in Biel, won’t you have to stay at the San for longer?”

“I’d forgotten about that. I’ll have to see – maybe speak to Jem – and David.” Rix said, but he knew the chances of his uncle and cousin offering to help were slim.

“Maybe Reg could take over.” Mary-Lou suggested. “Or Laurie Rosomon. They’re family, after all.”

“Maybe.” Rix was non-committal, but he had a horrible feeling Mary-Lou was right and they would have to stay longer in Switzerland than he had planned.

------------------------------------------

I found an interesting site about ultrasounds if anyone is interested - it would have been very new & exciting in 1961
http://www.ob-ultrasound.net/history1.html

 

#303:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jul 14, 2005 3:00 pm

Thanks Mia. So how long will they end up staying in Swtzerland...

 

#304:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Thu Jul 14, 2005 3:47 pm

Interesting!!

Thanks, Mia.

 

#305:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Thu Jul 14, 2005 4:04 pm

Would they have had scans at the time? I was born in January 1982 and my Mum wasn't able to have a scan for me when she was pregnant with me. I think you could only have a scan if you paid for it.

 

#306:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Thu Jul 14, 2005 5:01 pm

Oooh. So does he actually suspect 'or more'?

Thanks Mia.

 

#307:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Jul 14, 2005 6:26 pm

Thanks Mia, very interesting.

 

#308:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Jul 14, 2005 6:47 pm

Chair wrote:
Would they have had scans at the time? I was born in January 1982 and my Mum wasn't able to have a scan for me when she was pregnant with me. I think you could only have a scan if you paid for it.


It would have been very unusual, but Neil Sheppard is obviously on the cutting edge of antenatal care! Wink

 

#309:  Author: Chris, Location: Nottingham PostPosted: Thu Jul 14, 2005 6:57 pm

But less than 5 years later scanning was the norm - I fell pregnant in summer 1986 and all the ante natal care in our area included scans - although my local hospital is a big teaching hospital in Nottingham.

 

#310:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Thu Jul 14, 2005 7:26 pm

There were scans by 1984 as I know someone who had a scan in that year. I was just guessing the story takes place before 1984 though.

 

#311:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Thu Jul 14, 2005 9:06 pm

Thanks Mia, I hope its more than twins though!

Rixie-Lou and Rixette are my favourite names of choice Wink

 

#312:  Author: Rosy, Location: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth PostPosted: Thu Jul 14, 2005 9:47 pm

Ally wrote:
Rixie-Lou and Rixette are my favourite names of choice Wink


Shocked ROTFL

Oh Ally.

If I ever have kids, I shall be sure to invite you to the naming party, just for th hilarity that is bound to ensue!

 

#313:  Author: JoW, Location: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 10:14 am

I had a scan in 1976 - but only one. Not routinely and regularly like they are now.

 

#314:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 10:45 am

Perhaps it's quads, and Jo will think that she should bring them up!

 

#315:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 11:21 am

My kids were born in 71 & 74 - & I never heard of scans!

 

#316:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 11:40 am

Technically it was possible - they had been using ultrasound since 1800s.

Medical journal the Lancet published an article in June 1958 about it.

The link I posted gives you all the background, but it's quite long.

http://www.ob-ultrasound.net/history1.html

I rationalised that as they are doctors (and EBD's doctors at that Wink ) they can basically do whatever they like with their own time and equipment - but M-L isn't going to have a scan anyway so never mind!

Hmm will it be quads? Wink

 

#317:  Author: Rosy, Location: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 11:42 am

Mia *frowns*

I thought that was a new shiny post, with which ti fill my lunch hour.

Please post some more, for this is a luffly drabble!

 

#318:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 11:50 am

Thanks Rosy - just for you Very Happy

----------------------------

Chaos reigned at Freudesheim. Anna and Rosli were running around, packing cases and Jo was nowhere to be seen.

“What’s happening?” Mary-Lou asked. She was answered by Geoff, who, surprisingly, was at home and not at St Agnes’s. He looked like he had been crying. Phil was also red-eyed.

“Mamma’s going away.” he sniffed. “She won’t be here for Christmas. She’s taking Claire and going away with Papa. For six months.”

“What? Who’s going to look after you? Where is your mother?” Mary-Lou asked, kneeling and holding out her arms to the six-year old twins, who came to her at once.

“We’re going to board at the school. Auntie Hilda said if we had to then she could fit us in.” Phil explained. “But we don’t want to. We want to stay with Mamma and Papa! Don’t want to spend Christmas at school!”

“Mamma’s upstairs, crying.” Geoff supplied. “Is Papa really ill?”

“He’s – just going on a holiday for a while, isn’t he Rix?” Mary-Lou crossed her fingers behind her back.

“That’s right, twins. Where’s Cecil?” Rix was annoyed, and trying to cover it up. What did Jo think she was doing? He assumed that Jack had finally told her, but the Klinik in Biel would not want Joey hanging around, trying to see Jack when he should be receiving treatment.

“She’s at school. She wants to be a boarder.” Phil said, cuddling up to Mary-Lou. “But we don’t. We came home across the garden.”

“I’m a boy,” Geoff said, horrified. “I can’t sleep in a girls’ school!”

Mary-Lou tried to suppress a giggle at this and Rix was also amused. “I’ll go over and tell Miss Phipps that the twins are here,” Mary-Lou said to Rix.

“Can I come with you? I’ve not seen over the school yet and I need to speak to Hilda Annersley about some things. Listen, Geoff, Phil – you shouldn’t run off from school like that, do you hear me? Promise you won’t do it again. Your father is going to be fine and I’m sure we’ll sort something out about the boarding and about Christmas.”

The twins promised and the four of them went across the garden to the school.

 

#319:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 11:54 am

What does Jo think she's playing at? Thanks, Mia.

Am I wrong in seeing a deep, dark plot to force Rix to stay at the San?

 

#320:  Author: Robin, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 11:55 am

aha, I see a home for ML and Rix complete with foster children....

thanks Mia! Very Happy

 

#321:  Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 11:59 am

Thank-you Mia, for some lovely updates. Their holiday does seem to have sorted out some of Rix and Mary-Lou's tensions *sighs in relief* Poor Phil and Geoff. It looks as though Mary-Lou was right, and they are going to have to stay longer...

 

#322:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 12:17 pm

Thanks Mia

Poor little mites - Hope Jo can be persuaded to stay at Freudesheim and keep things as normal as possible for them.

Liz

 

#323:  Author: RuthY, Location: Anyone's guess PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 1:12 pm

Thanks Mia.

The poor little twins, hopes Jo will realise that they need her to stay and look after them.

Ruth

 

#324:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 1:33 pm

May Phipps exclaimed in relief when the twins were returned to her classroom.

“That was naughty, twins! We were just preparing to come and look for you!” she scolded, but gently. It was obvious that the twins were upset.

“Everything’s going to be fine.” Mary-Lou said firmly. The twins, reassured, ran over to their friends.

“Thanks for bringing them back.” Miss Phipps smiled. “I saw them running to Freudesheim. Is everything all right over there?”

They reassured her it was so and then went to see Hilda Annersley. To their surprise, she was trying to placate Jo, who had a look of anguish on her face.

“Mary-Lou, Rix – my dears, it’s not really a good time.” Miss Annersley said, but she was interrupted by Jo, who jumped to her feet.

“Why are you sending my husband away?” she demanded, angrily. “There’s nothing wrong with him! What do you think you’re doing?”

 

#325:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 1:42 pm

Oh dear - Jo isn't handling this very well at all is she...

Thank you Mia.

 

#326:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 2:11 pm

It sounds as though Jack has not been exactly frank with Jo! Oh, dear.

thanks, though! I must admit I wonder what the next disaster will be.

 

#327:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 2:16 pm

Oh dear Confused Also thinking Jack may not have told Jo the whole truth.

thanks Mia.

 

#328:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 3:19 pm

“He needs treatment, Aunt Jo.” Rix replied, calmly, trying to remain discreet. “It’s a decent place, he’ll get good treatment there and be able to come home. It would be best if you didn’t go with him. It’s not for long.”

“My Jack is not an alcoholic!” Jo cried, stepping forward with her hand raised, but Miss Annersley took hold of her shoulder, firmly.

“Stop this nonsense, Jo!” she said, in her firmest tones, guaranteed to quell even the naughtiest of Middles. “It will help nobody if you become hysterical! As Rix pointed out, Jack needs to receive this treatment, whatever it is, or the San and most importantly, your family will suffer.”

“The San wouldn’t be suffering if you’d have bothered to work there when Jack needed you!” Jo obviously wanted someone to blame. “I don’t believe it. He never drinks at home.” She broke into loud, noisy sobs.

“Did he tell you he was an alcoholic?” Mary-Lou asked, gently.

“He – he said he was.” Jo admitted. “I – I don’t want him to go away. I want things to be like they used to be. Hilda, you have to take the children as borders. Rosli says if she comes with me, she can only manage Claire, and I have to go to Biel to be with him.”

“As I explained Jo, we can just about fit Cecil in, but we’re completely full this term.” Hilda looked worried. “I’m going to fetch Matron.”

“We can take charge of the twins, can’t we, Rix?” Mary-Lou said. “If Joey really wants to go to Biel, that is.”

“Of course – but they might not let you see him,” Rix cautioned. “Or if they do, it’ll only be for a few minutes each day.”

“It doesn’t matter how short a time they let me spend with him, but I have to be there for him.” Joey sobbed. Rix felt sorry for her, it was a nasty shock and seemed to have knocked her for six.

“We’ll look after the twins and Claire,” he said, though he was worried if he and Mary-Lou would be able to cope. “It’ll be good practice for us.”

“Thank you.” Jo sniffed, “I can take Claire and Rosli with me, so I’m not alone. If you could look after Phil and Geoff that would be wonderful. I don’t want to ask Con, she’s so busy and Len is busy too.”

“It’s fine.” Mary-Lou added, “You’ll be visiting them though, won’t you? And writing and everything?”

“Of course! I don’t neglect my babies.” Jo said, poisonously. “Unlike some.”

 

#329:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 3:21 pm

Who are the some...

Jo really hasn't taken this well and seems to want to blame anyone other than Jack.

Hmmm...more problems....

Thank you Mia!

 

#330:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 3:40 pm

How nasty and selfish is Joey trying to be? I know she's worried about Jack, but she seems very quick to leave the twins behind. Im assuming the last part was a dig at Dick and Mollie, a lovely way of thanking Rix for offering to look after the children!

Thanks Mia, this just gets more complex as things develop.

 

#331:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 4:58 pm

Mia wrote:
“Thank you.” Jo sniffed, “I can take Claire and Rosli with me, so I’m not alone. If you could look after Phil and Geoff that would be wonderful. I don’t want to ask Con, she’s so busy and Len is busy too.”


And what about Mary-Lou, Jo? She's definitely busy! Wink

Liz

 

#332:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 5:10 pm

If Jo is only allowed to see Jack for a few minutes during the day, couldn't she look after Geoff and Phil the rest of the time?

 

#333:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 6:47 pm

Why is Joey abandoning her children? Crying or Very sad

Thanks, Mia

 

#334:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 7:33 pm

I suppose Jo is devastated because Jack, her SLOC, turns out to be not quite such a solid rock.

She's over reacting and I think is being very selfish to offload the family like that but she's in denial about this being in any way Jack's fault.

ML and Rix are being sucked in to this in a big way - I told them to get out of there and they didn't listen Rolling Eyes

Thank you Mia.

 

#335:  Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 7:42 pm

Hmm - all it needs now is for Mary Lou to be ordered to rest for the last third of her pregnancy - then what will happen to Geoff and Phil?

Jo really isn't being very adult about this - I could understand her denial if someone else had told her Jack was an alcoholic and needed the treatment, but he's told her himself, for goodness sake.....!

 

#336:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Jul 15, 2005 9:49 pm

Hope Mary Lou will be OK - Jo seems very blase over the care of her children.

Thanks Mia.

 

#337:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Jul 16, 2005 1:49 pm

Poor Jo, she's just not able to cope with real disruption is she?

 

#338:  Author: Rosy, Location: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth PostPosted: Sat Jul 16, 2005 6:50 pm

Gah Joey
*shakes Joey hard, then gives her a hug*

Thankyou Mia

 

#339:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Sat Jul 16, 2005 7:01 pm

Elder in Ontario wrote:
Jo really isn't being very adult about this - I could understand her denial if someone else had told her Jack was an alcoholic and needed the treatment, but he's told her himself, for goodness sake.....!

That's not really how denial works though, is it? It's more govenered by shock, whoever, tells the news. She's in shock I think, not thinking straight and lashing out - selfish and thoughtless, yes, but I don't think intentional.

*torn between giving her a sharp slap to bring her to her senses, and giving her a big hug* Wink

Poor M-L and Rix. Confused They've been dragged into this meess big time, haven't they? Hope all this isn't going to stress M-L out too much!

Thanks Mia.

 

#340:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Sun Jul 17, 2005 1:14 pm

Phew, what a lot to happen. I'm sorry for the way that everything seems to be changing arround ML and Rix. I'm also interested in the many strands to this story - the letter, the visit to the accountant, ML's pregnancy, Jack and his problems... Lots and lots to be resolved. Looking forwards to seeing it happen. Thanks Mia

 

#341:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Jul 17, 2005 5:20 pm

Mary-Lou opened her mouth to say something in reply, but Rix shook his head at her.

Miss Annersley spoke up, “Joey, I think you should go back to Freudesheim and finish your packing. I’ll see you before you leave.”

“Why is she acting like that?” Mary-Lou asked, once Joey had left through the French windows, still crying.

“Shock – mostly.” Rix said, moving over to the window to watch his aunt walking over the lawns. “I do wish she wasn’t going to Biel. Jack needs this treatment and a complete rest.”

“I’d better go and see if I can help her.” Mary-Lou said and followed Joey to Freudesheim.

“Will Jack Maynard recover?” Miss Annersley indicated that Rix should sit down, which he did. She touched the bell and requested that the maid bring Kaffee. “I’m very concerned about Jo, she doesn’t seem to be handling this at all well. She’s always relied on Jack so much.”

“Jack should be fine. He knows he’s got a problem and what he needs to do, which is a huge step. I’m worried about Aunt Jo – she won’t be able to see him when he’s at the Klinik. Someone should go with her, and not just that kid Rosli.”

“Maybe I could take a week to go with her – next week is half-term.” Miss Annersley offered. “Or maybe Winifred Embury would go with her. I’ll telephone her.”

He thanked her, looking relieved. Miss Annersley changed the subject in her wise way and they talked about the San over Kaffee. Rix found himself confiding in her a great deal and her advice was very helpful.

*

At Freudesheim, Con met him in the hall, “Mother’s rather upset,” she said. “She says she doesn’t want to see you. I think she’s frightened you’ll stop her going with Dad. I’ve telephoned Len and she’s coming down from the Rosleinalpe.”

“Fine. I’ll go to the San.” Rix was tired, his chest still hurt from the smoke and he wanted to talk to Mary-Lou. The San was the last place he wanted to go.

“ No, I didn’t mean you couldn’t come in. She’s in her room, anyway, with Mary-Lou and
Anna. I don’t think she should go to Biel either, so she told me to go away. Can’t you sedate her, Rix?”

“Not really. She needs to get the shock out of her system. What time do the kids come back from school?”

“Well, Fliss boards, but Cecil and the twins should be back around sixteen – I mean four. Rix – I know you’re really busy, but I wondered if you would read my book. I- I’m running out of time.”

“What?” Rix had only half-heard her, “Sorry, I haven’t had time to, but I’ll start it tonight, OK? Look, I’m going down to the San," and he left her.

 

#342:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jul 17, 2005 5:24 pm

Mia wrote:
I- I’m running out of time.”



That phrase does not inspire confidence. Pleased Rix found Hilda's advice helpful.

 

#343:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Jul 17, 2005 5:56 pm

The atmosphere for the next week at Freudesheim was very strained, Rix avoided it as much as he could and worked longer and longer days at the San. He felt bad about leaving Mary-Lou to deal with Joey, but Mary-Lou didn’t seem to mind.

Joey refused to speak to him, blaming him for not coming out to Switzerland years ago and for sending Jack away. He had argued with her, but now he just left her alone, her simmering resentment obvious.

He wished that he and Mary-Lou had moved into their own chalet straight away, but now it was too late, other tenants had been found by the landlord and they were stuck at Freudesheim, presumably until Jack’s treatment finished and he resumed the Directorship of the San.

He was keeping a close eye on Geoff and Phil, the latter had withdrawn a great deal into herself lately, while Geoff’s behaviour veered from bad mischief and temper tantrums to clinging desperately to his mother, who was leaving for Biel the next day. Jack had already gone as he was now able to get around on crutches.

Rix had seen Jack briefly before he left and had told him a little of what the accountant had found, but not about the Meroxet mystery.

“We’re turning a corner… next financial year you should be free of debt.” Rix had said, “Have you ever heard of Meroxet?”

“No – isn’t it a TB drug?” Jack had asked, with no hint of hiding anything. Rix had changed the subject.

He had even started to read Con’s novel in the evenings. He was surprised by how well-written it was, even if the subject – a rather autobiographical account of a young girl leaving school and going to university – wasn’t to his usual taste in literature.

 

#344:  Author: Rosy, Location: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth PostPosted: Sun Jul 17, 2005 5:59 pm

Oooh, oooh.
There's something in the book isn't there? *sits very still in the hope of getting some more drabble soon*


(I'm not sure why sitting still might help, but it just might)


Thankyou Mia

 

#345:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jul 17, 2005 6:39 pm

So Jack doesn't appear implicated in the embezzlement - that's something at least.

And Con's book - could it be very autobiographical? As in, have a revelation or two about Con herself?

Thanks Mia.

 

#346:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Sun Jul 17, 2005 6:48 pm

Looks very interesting. Thanks for all the updates Mia. Its great. Feeling sorry for all of them

 

#347:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Jul 17, 2005 8:53 pm

“Were you up at Oxford when Con was?” he asked his wife, the evening after they had said goodbye to Joey, who had gone to Biel with Claire, Rosli and kind Winifred Embury.
They were alone, Con had gone to visit the Entwistles and the twins were in bed.

“We overlapped by two years – because of Mother, you know. I had to take some time away from my course. But yes, why?”

“Just wondered. She still seems very quiet, doesn’t she?”

“She always has been, darling.” Mary-Lou was writing something for an archaeology publication and was distracted. Rix turned back to his post. Rayner had written to him and had asked when Rix was planning to return to the hospital and he needed to reply before he could read more of Con’s effort, which was turning out to be surprisingly interesting.

His other letter was a thick envelope from Peggy, he opened it and a collection of snaps fell out. Mary-Lou abandoned her writing at once to look at them, as most were of the Winterton children, Alan, who was five years old, Jennifer, three and the new baby that had been born in February, when Mollie Bettany had been in Canada and who was Margaret after her mother.

“Oh, she’s so sweet! She’s just like Peggy, isn’t she? All of the children resemble her.”

“They’re coming to visit,” Rix said, reading the letter and passing the pages onto Mary-Lou as he finished with each one. “Giles has a pal who’s flying them over – they’re going to the Quadrant for two months and then coming here. Giles isn’t staying here, he’s only got a month’s leave so he’ll fly back from England. Oh, that’s fantastic news! It’s been years since I saw her. She’s staying for three months – she’ll be here when the babies are born.”

Mary-Lou read the letter slowly. Rix was obviously overjoyed at the thought of seeing his twin sister again. She felt a tiny twinge of jealousy that Peggy would be in the Oberland at the time of the birth, when really she would have liked it to be an experience that she and Rix could share alone.

 

#348:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Sun Jul 17, 2005 9:09 pm

I wonder why Mary-Lou isn't so keen on Peggy being around? I look forward to finding out the reason why. I wonder which nickname of Margaret Peggy will be able to think up for her new baby!

 

#349:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sun Jul 17, 2005 9:29 pm

Oooh thank you for the lovely posts Mia. Keep reading Con's book Rix!!

If Meroxet is a drug, has it been used on anyone in the story? *worried and suspicious*

 

#350:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jul 17, 2005 9:47 pm

Of course there's also the thing that Peggy is Rix's twin, a very close relationship, is older than Mary Lou - and was Head Girl before her!

Thanks Mia

 

#351:  Author: LizB *spurned*,  PostPosted: Sun Jul 17, 2005 11:24 pm

Thanks Mia

Hope Peggy is able to help out

Liz

 

#352:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Mon Jul 18, 2005 2:24 am

Just caught up with this. Mia, I am impressed by all the complexities that youu are coping with here.

 

#353:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Jul 18, 2005 9:19 am

Thank you Mia!

 

#354:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Mon Jul 18, 2005 10:55 am

Mia this is so complicated!!!!!

I have a few theories based on the last twenty odd posts

1) Con is pregnant
2) She's up to her eyes in debt from drug smuggling and there are hitmen after her
3) She's about to emigrate to America and her plane leaves tomorrow

other than that I'm baffled and will wait patiently, trusting Mia to sort it allllll out

 

#355:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Jul 18, 2005 11:19 am

This is a real can of worms that you've opened, Mia. I can't see any way out of it. so please post some more to help me.

 

#356:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Jul 18, 2005 11:32 am

*g* at Fran's theories! Though have to say, they sound better than any of my own!

Thanks Mia.

 

#357:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Jul 18, 2005 2:37 pm

Laurie’s alarm woke him at the usual time and he saw that Daisy’s side of the bed was empty. With a sigh, he got up and ready for the day, heading into Peter’s room to get his small son ready for the day at the Chalet Kindergarten. Laurie privately thought that Peter was too young for a full day at school, however Peter seemed to enjoy it there and with Daisy now working practically full time, they didn’t have a lot of choice. At least she could leave Mary in the new San creche.

Laurie reflected on this as he drank his coffee and watched Peter eat cornflakes. He hadn’t really wanted Daisy to work, but it was turning out to be quite a good idea. They hadn’t needed the money, but it was nice to be able to afford a few more luxuries and know that the school fees were secure. Daisy’s time was more occupied than previously, not that it made much difference now. He frowned, thinking of what had happened and what he had done. There was no chance whatsoever that Daisy would be happy about it.

“What’s wrong, Daddy?” Peter asked, at once. He was a sensitive little boy. Laurie grinned at him.

“Nothing, kiddo. Come on, you’d better get your coat on – and your scarf. It’s cold today, even though we’re in the car.”

Peter trotted off to do as he was bidden and Laurie gloomed out of the window for a few minutes. He had always enjoyed working at the San before, he’d been thrilled when Jack Maynard had offered him the job, but now – well, it was unbearable sometimes. To be so near to and yet so far from what he wanted.

Peter got into the back seat of the car and Laurie drove first to the Chalet School – avoiding Freudesheim in case Rix was around – and then on to the San.

Last edited by Mia on Mon Jul 18, 2005 3:03 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#358:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Mon Jul 18, 2005 2:42 pm

Oh dear, what has Laurie been up to? Poor Daisy if she isnt going to like it. I hope he hasnt been involved in whatever it is that has taken up all the money.

 

#359:  Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Mon Jul 18, 2005 4:39 pm

Mia, you are truly weaving a very tangled web here - but I love it!! Think OOAO needs to do some growing up before these babies arrive. Also intrigued with what's eating Con and why she so urgently needs Rix' opinion on her book.

 

#360:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Mon Jul 18, 2005 5:38 pm

It's nice to see more of what makes Laurie tick but I'm intrigued to see what Laurie is hiding from Daisy.

 

#361:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Jul 18, 2005 7:30 pm

What is everyone hiding from everyone else?

 

#362:  Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria PostPosted: Mon Jul 18, 2005 8:22 pm

I think some if not all need to start to share their secrets!
With us if not each other! Wink
Thank you Mia

 

#363:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Jul 18, 2005 9:37 pm

Thanks Mia

*intensely curious about what Laurie wants*

Liz

 

#364:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Jul 18, 2005 10:12 pm

Rix had been at the San since seven, pouring over the accounts and the financial reports and projections that the accountant had prepared. He had also been through all the catalogues looking for Meroxet but had drawn a frustrating blank.

He had promised to leave early so that Mary-Lou had some support with the twins, who were proving to be a real handful. Geoff was very naughty and Phil was silent and prone to easy tears. Jo’s goodbyes had been brief and rather off-hand and although Rix and Mary-Lou knew it was due to her anxiety about Jack, the twins didn’t understand.

"Doesn’t Mamma love us any more? Is it because I spilt the milk on the table cloth last week and made her angry?" Geoff had sobbed as they had put him to bed and Mary-Lou had nearly been in tears herself as she reassured him.

The other thing that was troubling him was his job in London. He’d written to Rayner and explained that he was going to have to take another six months, bringing his sabbatical leave up to ten in total and wasn’t expecting him to be impressed, especially as he hadn’t spent any time operating and keeping up his surgical skills. Laurie did most of the operations at the San and Rix had avoided seeking out his company.

Con walked past with some filing, her attention was elsewhere as usual and she looked like she’d been crying. Rix had asked if she was OK twice, but each time she had bitten his head off. Rix told himself he was starting to see why Jack had turned to drink.

He put his pen down and went to find Reg Entwistle, determined to start tackling the problems head on.

 

#365:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Jul 18, 2005 10:14 pm

Poor Rix - hope he doesn't get driven to drink

Has he had a chance to read Con's book yet?

The sooner Peggy gets out there and can help them, the better!

ETA - thanks Mia!

Liz

 

#366:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Tue Jul 19, 2005 12:00 am

When I read that Mary-Lou needed help with the twins, I thought I had missed a bit and she had already given birth! I do feel sorry for Geoff and Phil as well as Rix and Mary-Lou.

 

#367:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Tue Jul 19, 2005 12:15 am

Not just one tangled web, but several...
THank you Mia.

 

#368:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Tue Jul 19, 2005 8:16 am

Will they ever leave the Platz again? For some reason Im also rather worried about Peggy's visit Confused Though I am glad to see Rix do something with Reg, its about time it was sorted!

Thanks Mia Very Happy

 

#369:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Jul 19, 2005 11:16 am

Reg was doing his rounds of the wards and Rix knew Laurie was busy elsewhere. He had decided it would be better to tackle them independently of each other – together they were too intimidating.

“Good morning, Dr Entwistle,” he said, trying to sound cheerful. “Could I have a word with you after your rounds, please?”

As they were in front of a patient, Reg couldn’t refuse and he agreed, though his annoyance at the request was quite clear.

“We’re very busy down here,” he said, the tone of his voice coming very close to insolence.

“I know you are, that’s why I’ve come down to give you a hand. Shall I take the ward next door?” Rix held his hand out for the case notes and Reg had no choice but to hand them over.

“Thank you, Mr Bettany,” he said, icily. Rix ignored him and went to the other ward, flipping through the notes as he went, looking for references to Meroxet. He was very uneasy at the thought that this mystery drug – if that was what it was – may have been administered to patients, but he couldn’t see it anywhere. Was it an experimental drug? Why wasn’t it in any of the catalogues or journals?

He took longer to do the rounds than Reg did, and Reg was waiting for him in the corridor, looking impatient.

“Shall we go to my office?” Rix asked, still keeping his calm and speaking politely, even though it was difficult with Reg’s belligerent manner.

“You can say what you want to say here.” Reg retorted, rudely.

“I’d appreciate it if you didn’t speak to me like that.” Rix said, calmly but firmly. “And no, I think we will go to my office. I need to speak to you about the situation with Jack and about your salary, and I would prefer to keep our discussions confidential – wouldn’t you?”

Reg looked surprised, but he nodded and followed Rix to the office.

 

#370:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Jul 19, 2005 11:24 am

Thanks Mia

Glad Reg agreed to go into the office - hope their conversation isn't behind closed doors Smile

Liz

 

#371:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Tue Jul 19, 2005 12:15 pm

I do hope that Rix is able to go about this in a way which will make Reg friendlier towards him. Thanks Mia

 

#372:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Tue Jul 19, 2005 1:50 pm

I hope Reg and Rix can sort out the problem soon.

 

#373:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Jul 19, 2005 4:23 pm

Thanks Mia. Hoping Reg will be persuaded to part with some information, though somehow I doubt it.

 

#374:  Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria PostPosted: Tue Jul 19, 2005 7:51 pm

I was wondering why the pharmacist hadn't picked up this then I realised that I was mixing drabbles Embarassed Embarassed Embarassed
Thanks Mia-don't make us wait too long for the conversation please Wink

 

#375:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Jul 19, 2005 7:51 pm

Think Reg needs a slap - why is he so hostile???

Thanks Mia. Laughing

 

#376:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Tue Jul 19, 2005 8:19 pm

Also wondering what all this ill-feeling is about and if Rix can do anything about it all. I do hope so!

Thanks, Mia

 

#377:  Author: Rosy, Location: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth PostPosted: Tue Jul 19, 2005 9:56 pm

*gloats* Go Rix

This is getting really entrancing. Hehe - thankyou Mia!

 

#378:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Jul 19, 2005 10:32 pm

Rix asked Con if she would mind making herself scarce for a while and she did so, closing the door behind her. When he was sure it had closed, Rix turned to Reg and invited him to sit down, which he didn’t. Rix coughed, and then spoke,

"I expect you know that Jack's had to go to this place in Biel for treatment for alcoholism and depression. I'm presuming that Len told you? Mary-Lou and I are looking after the twins until Jo gets back."

Reg nodded, "I don't see why this will affect my salary," he began, but Rix cut him short.

"It doesn't - but what I wanted to say was that it means I'm stu - I mean, I'll be here for another six months at least. I know you aren't pleased, but there's not a lot I can do about it. I promised Jack I would take charge while he took the time off he needed."

"Were you going to say that you’re stuck here?" Reg demanded, "Is the San not good enough for you?"

"No, of course I didn't mean that, well, OK, I didn't want to come here, I would have preferred to stay in London but what I'm trying to say is that we all have to do things we don't want to do, it's no good grousing over them like a sulky kid, is it?”

Reg’s scowl did not lessen; Rix had hit a nerve.

"Were you aware that the San has had some financial problems?" Rix asked, watching Reg closely. He saw him react slightly, but quickly compose himself.

"Rosomon said - I mean, we suspected there was something. Jack used to have us help him with the accounts but then he wanted to do them all himself. How serious are - ?"

“What did Dr Rosomon say?”

"Not much.” Reg said, “Just that we’d all be out of jobs soon and we should sort something else out for ourselves. Like Graves and Courvoisier did, they set up in practice in England.”

"Fair enough. Thanks for coming to have a chat." Rix busied himself with the papers on his desk.

Reg hesitated, "You said something about my salary?”

"Oh yes. Just the annual reviews – now we’ve got more patients it’s only fair you get paid extra. I’ve been through the finances with the accountant and I can give you six percent. Is that OK?”

“Thank you.” Reg looked relieved. He seemed to relax a little. “I-I’ve been worried about money. I’ve got a family to support now.”

“Of course.” Rix said, pleased that the atmosphere was less tense. “That’s natural. I hope you won’t leave the San, though. I know Uncle Jack’s got great plans for this place.”

Reg nodded, but he didn’t look convinced. “I do owe Jack an awful lot,” he said, finally sitting down, “He put me through my training – he even paid my school fees, you know. But I have to put Len and Laura first, don’t I?”

He looked at the ledgers, then at Rix, looking him in the eye for practically the first time since they had begun their conversation, “Can you please tell me honestly – is my job secure?”

 

#379:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Jul 19, 2005 10:50 pm

Could Rix have finally got through? Seems as though Reg is more worried than anything.

Thanks Mia.

 

#380:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Tue Jul 19, 2005 11:10 pm

I'm pleased that Rix and Reg might be getting on better.

 

#381:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Tue Jul 19, 2005 11:13 pm

Fingers crossed that Rix and Reg are going to work things out between them - maybe Laurie had done a bit too much scaremongering and Reg was torn between feeling he needed to stay put and support Jack after everything joey and Jack did for him, while worrying himself ill about Len and what would happen if/when the san folded

 

#382:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Wed Jul 20, 2005 12:10 am

Ah, this sounds a little better.

 

#383:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Wed Jul 20, 2005 7:21 am

Oh hurrah, communication. Im glad they have cleared the air a bit, now what about Laurie?

Thank Mia

 

#384:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Wed Jul 20, 2005 8:58 am

This is looking good. I do hope that things keep improving. Thanks Mia

 

#385:  Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough PostPosted: Wed Jul 20, 2005 11:32 am

Lovely updates, Mia - so many plotlines to be resolved. Thank-you.

 

#386:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Jul 20, 2005 12:56 pm

Thanks Mia

At least Reg is being offered a pay rise, so I guess his job must have some security - if he was being asked to take a cut he should definitely be worrying

Liz

 

#387:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Wed Jul 20, 2005 1:31 pm

Thanks Mia. And the outcome of this discussion?

 

#388:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Jul 20, 2005 2:12 pm

Hmmm. i still wonder if Reg knows more than he's letting on, but maybe the payrise will sweeten him up a little so Rix can get more out of him in time?

Or maybe I'm just being suspicious.

thanks Mia. Fab as ever. Very Happy

 

#389:  Author: Lucy, Location: Leeds PostPosted: Wed Jul 20, 2005 2:33 pm

Wow - so much has happened whilst I've been away!!

Glad Mary-Lou and Rix are getting on better. Hoping Mary-Lou's twinge of jealousy towards Peggy is just her pregnancy hormones and things don't get worse when she arrives.

Hoping Rix finishes Con's story before she runs out of time, wondering why she decided to unburden herself to Rix rather than Len/Mary-Lou.

Can't wait for more - Thanks Mia Very Happy

 

#390:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Jul 20, 2005 10:53 pm

“Of course it is!” Rix said, surprised. “Has anyone told you otherwise?”

“No – I was just worried, I suppose. As I said, now I have a child – but you know, of course, or you will next year.”

“I suppose I will.” Rix grinned back.

“I’d better get back to the wards. Thanks again for the raise. I – I appreciate it.”

“You’re welcome. Dr Entwistle – have you ever used a drug called Meroxet for anything?”

Reg turned round, “Meroxet? I’ve never heard of it. What is it for?”

“I don’t know – I heard somebody mention it when I was in Interlaken and I wondered if we used it here?”

“Don’t think so – I’ve never heard of it. Meroxet? Daft name – sounds made up.”

“What did you say?” Rix said at once.

“Eh? Oh, I said it sounded like a made up name.” Reg looked baffled and Rix was sure he wasn’t involved in any embezzlement.

In fact, Rix thought, Reg's common sense might even have provided a small clue to the mystery.

 

#391:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Jul 20, 2005 11:07 pm

Thanks Mia

Glad Rix has got some enlightenment!

Liz

 

#392:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 3:42 am

Good to see Reg coming round a little - and providing a clue.

Thanks Mia.

 

#393:  Author: Rosy, Location: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 8:20 am

*glowers at Laurie, nasty man*

you see, I reckon that while Reg is a bit creepy, that Laurie's the proble, but we shall see.

Am so so glad Reg is innocent thus far.

 

#394:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 8:35 am

Thanks, Mia. Glad Reg *seems* to be innocent.

 

#395:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 8:43 am

Thanks Mia. Hope Reg really is innocent but wondering just what Laurie has been up to.

 

#396:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 11:00 am

Rix returned to Freudesheim and parked Jack’s car in the drive. Opening the front door, he was surprised not to receive the usual riotous greeting from Bruno and the twins.

Entering the Saal, he gazed in horror at the floor. Joey’s beautiful parquet floor was stained with something that looked like blood.

Fearing the very worst, he went into the hall, calling Mary-Lou’s name with increasing urgency.

 

#397:  Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 11:04 am

Mia!!
I really don't think you can leave it like that... Wink

 

#398:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 11:23 am

Mia, these cliffs are doing me no good whatsoever.

 

#399:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 11:24 am

She obviously can Rosea, since she just has! The question is.....!![/i]

 

#400:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 11:28 am

Um, a little mroe would be nice... A lot more would be fantastic. Thanks Mia

 

#401:  Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 11:30 am

Pat wrote:
She obviously can Rosea, since she just has! The question is.....!![/i]


Razz

Good point Pat!

 

#402:  Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 11:40 am

EEEK! *wibbles*

Please put us out of our misery, Mia!

 

#403:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 11:47 am

Erk! Help...Mia please come back and tell us what has happened...

 

#404:  Author: Robin, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 11:51 am

*wibble wibble wibble*

come on Mia, please don't leave it like that!!
(although I'm hoping that it's nothing serious otherwise someone would have called the san???)

 

#405:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 12:20 pm

I'd just read four pages and including Jo's immature outburst Confused and was feeling relieved that Rix *might* have an ally in Reg and then I slipped in the pool of blood Shocked or maybe 'looks like blood'

Come back Mia. I'm sure you can hear the wibbling!

 

#406:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 12:37 pm

Urkle!

'looks like blood'! Come on Rix, you're a doctor - you should be able to tell!

*wibbles*

Liz

 

#407:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 2:18 pm

Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat???! I'm going on holiday in two hours! This isn't fair! Mia!!!!! Pretty please can we have some more??!

 

#408:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 2:38 pm

Very Happy

She emerged from the scullery, looking rather harassed. She had a bucket of water and a cloth in her hands and was obviously preparing to clean up the floor.

“I’m here, what’s wrong?” she asked, sounding tired.

“What on earth – is that blood in there?” Rix demanded.

“You may well ask! Geoff tried to get around the room without touching the floor. He seems to have misjudged the distance between the sofa and that sideboard. I was sorting out the laundry upstairs and heard the most awful crash, Bruno barking and the pair of them screaming… He’s fine, but he’s got the biggest lump on his forehead you ever saw, and he must’ve knocked his nose, as it was just gushing blood. Luckily Neil Sheppard was right on the spot – he was actually walking up the path with some books he’s loaning you, so he could see to Geoff. I had to deal with Phil, who was in floods of tears. She said she dared Geoff to do it.”

“Oh God, I thought…” Rix broke off, not wanting to share the horrors of his imagination. “Where are the twins?”

“Upstairs, with Anna. She’s applying one of her patent lotions to Geoff’s face, to stop it bruising so badly. Neil’s upstairs still.”

“I’d better check on him – darned kid! Leave the floor and I’ll clean it.” Rix took the stairs two at a time. “You sit down and put your feet up!” he called down.

Geoff and Phil were in their old nursery, which had been turned into a playroom for them. Phil had stopped sobbing, but looked a pitiful little sight. Little catches in her breathing told Rix that her crying fit had been a violent one.

“I-I’m sorry!” she said, as soon as she saw Rix.

He had been annoyed with the twins, but at the sight of her, the only thing he could do was to take her into his arms for a hug.

“Don’t cry, pet. Geoff will be fine, I promise,” he said, seeing Neil’s nod of reassurance. “What have you been doing, Geoffrey? You look a fine sight.”

Whatever lotion Anna was putting on Geoff’s face hadn’t worked too well. Already the signs of a black and purple bruise covered one side his comically plain little face and his shirt was splattered with blood.

“Wanted to go round the room without touching the floor, like Mike used to do.” He confessed, shame-facedly. “But I had to jump onto the sideboard and I missed. I tried to land on Bruno but he moved!” he continued, with an indignant glance at Bruno, who merely wagged his tail.

Rix had to bite his lip to keep from laughing and Neil Sheppard snorted.

“Well, it was a mad thing to do and I’m not very happy with you.” Rix said, sternly. “You could have been seriously hurt. What would your mother and father have said then? And you worried Mary-Lou again, which you promised me you wouldn’t do.”

“I’m sorry.” Geoff said, looking ashamed of himself, “’Specially about Mary-Lou, Rix.”

“It was my fault, Rix. Geoff didn’t think he could do, so I dared him.” Phil contributed. “Did we make Mary-Lou unhappy?”

“Well, she wasn’t exactly happy about you trying to kill yourselves! Is everything all right with him, Neil?”

“He’ll be fine. He’s going to have a lovely black eye though, aren’t you, young man? Still, no permanent injuries, thank goodness!”

“Good. Now, listen to me, both of you! I want you to promise you won’t try to do anything like this again – and you’re forbidden to dare each other to do mad things.”

“Do I have to go to bed?” Geoff asked, miserably.

“No, you can both come downstairs and sit quietly in the drawing-room, where I can keep an eye on you! Bring a book or a jigsaw or something and you can sit quietly until supper. Neil – thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” Neil replied, grinning.

“Thanks Uncle Neil.” Phil added and Geoff followed her lead, as always. Phil picked up a jigsaw and the pair of them went downstairs, not noticeably subdued. Neil and Rix followed.

“When I saw the blood on the floor – I thought…” Rix said, quietly.

Neil gave him a sharp look, “You don’t need to worry about that. Mary-Lou’s a healthy young woman.” He smiled, “Grizel told me that the twins were monkeys.”

“I expect I was too soft on them. They’re upset about Jo going to Biel, of course. She means to stay there for the whole of Jack’s treatment. I feel sorry for the twins, they’re too young to understand.”

“No, of course not. Geoff’s had quite a knock to the head, you couldn’t be harder on him at the moment and poor little Phil almost cried herself sick.”

“I think I’ll get on to Aunt Jo this evening and try and persuade her to come home.” Rix said, with some determination, but he was not at all sure that she would.

 

#409:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 2:43 pm

Phew. Thank you Mia. Glad it was nothing more serious. Naughty twins! Not sure Rix will be successful with Jo!

 

#410:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 3:03 pm

Thanks for resolving the cliff, Mia!

 

#411:  Author: Lucy, Location: Leeds PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 3:18 pm

Mia wrote:

“Wanted to go round the room without touching the floor, like Mike used to do.” He confessed, shame-facedly. “But I had to jump onto the sideboard and I missed. I tried to land on Bruno but he moved!” he continued, with an indignant glance at Bruno, who merely wagged his tail.


Loved this bit Mia Very Happy

For once I'm glad I missed the earlier update and didn't have to spend my time wibbling about Mary-Lou.

Hope Jo remembers her responsibilities as a mother soon (as well as those of a wife) and comes back to look after the twins.

 

#412:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 3:37 pm

*giggles at the the twins*

Thanks Mia Very Happy

 

#413:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 4:25 pm

But that's such a fun thing to do - I can understand why Geoff wanted to try it - Bruno should have known to stay still though!! Laughing

Thanks Mia

Liz

 

#414:  Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 4:32 pm

Quote:
“Wanted to go round the room without touching the floor, like Mike used to do.”


Oh dear, how many times was that exploit repeated in the series - can think of Cornelia and Alixe von Elsen off the top of my head!

Glad things were no worse, Mia and that Mary Lou was all right - I can imagine Rix's immediate reaction on seeing the 'apparent' blood stains.

 

#415:  Author: keren, Location: Israel PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 4:32 pm

Poor Rix and ML.
Rix has not had such a lot to do with this part of the family, not like the girls (It was madge who looked after him and joey had her own house later).
ML may owe Joey a bit for helping her with her mother etc, but to look after lively twins in her condition!!

 

#416:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 7:11 pm

First class cliff there, Mia - but you should leave people waiting for longer! Twisted Evil

 

#417:  Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 7:44 pm

Lesley-Don't enourage Mia

Thanks Mia we appreciate it if we don't have to wait too long!

 

#418:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 7:52 pm

I'm so glad nobody is hurt except for Geoff's eye and nosebleed. Fortunately, I missed the earlier update as well. I can also guess what clue Rix found in Reg's talking.

 

#419:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 11:29 pm

Bad Mia! I was getting vair vair scared

But you made it all okay so I forgive you...

Now may we have some more happy fluffy drabble? Please?

 

#420:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 11:46 pm

Lesley wrote:
First class cliff there, Mia - but you should leave people waiting for longer! Twisted Evil


What can I say? I'm just too soft-hearted! Laughing

Chair wrote:
I can also guess what clue Rix found in Reg's talking.


Vair interested to hear your theories, hunny!

 

#421:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Fri Jul 22, 2005 12:03 am

Fortunately, I missed the cliff, tho' time differences.... poor little twins...what does Jo mean, she doesn't neglect her children!!!!

 

#422:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Jul 22, 2005 11:54 am

Thaks Mia Very Happy

Have a feeling I know what Jo's response will be when Rix tries to get her to come home!

 

#423:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Jul 22, 2005 11:58 am

Is she bothering the staff at the clinic in Biel yet?

 

#424:  Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans/Leicester PostPosted: Fri Jul 22, 2005 9:54 pm

The Twins antics apart things are looking at least a little bit up... I don't expect it'll continue though Twisted Evil

Thanks Mia

 

#425:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sat Jul 23, 2005 12:31 pm

“But Geoff and Phil need you too.” Rix had been arguing with Joey over the phone for nearly twenty minutes, taking care to keep his voice down. He had closed the study door, but the twins had sharp ears.

“I need to be with my husband.” Joey kept repeating. “Rix, he looks terrible. They only let me see him for half an hour. My hotel is dreadful, but it was the only one we could afford. I hadn’t realised there was so little left in the joint account. They don’t like children here, we have to go out with Claire for most of the day and they wouldn’t hear of having the twins here. Claire’s quiet but Phil and Geoff aren’t! I just don’t know what to do.”

“You should come home, Auntie Jo.” Rix said. “Jack is being well looked after. The reputation of that Klinik is first rate. Why don’t you let me drive down and collect you?”

Jo sighed. “I can’t leave him here alone.”

“Can you come home for a weekend at the least?” Rix asked, finally.

“I’ll try.” Jo said. “Trust Geoff to be so naughty when he knows how serious the situation is! I must go, Rix, I’ll phone back when I can.”

Rix slammed the receiver down, furious with her. She hadn’t listened to a word he had said.

He picked up his cigarettes, from habit, but threw them down on the desk, irritably, remembering his persistent cough since the hotel fire.

Going back into the Saal, he caught Mary-Lou’s inquiring glance and shook his head.

 

#426:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jul 23, 2005 12:41 pm

Stupid woman - doesn't she care about her children? fume

Thanks Mia.

 

#427:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Sat Jul 23, 2005 12:59 pm

Poor Geoff being blamed for it like that. As if he actually Wanted to get hurt. Poor Mary-Lou and Rix as well. I hope Joey sees sense soon!

Thanks Mia

 

#428:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sat Jul 23, 2005 1:49 pm

I couldn't agree more, Lesley. Shocked

Thanks Mia

 

#429:  Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Sat Jul 23, 2005 1:53 pm

Agreeing with Lesley and Mary here - Joey should accept Rix' reassurance that Jack is in good hands and she has more important responsibilities than hanging around Biel for the sake of that half hour visit a day - at this point, I doubt if Jack could care if she visited or not. As his recovery progresses, visiting will be more important and Joey should be at home for the time being.

If she refuses to do this, she should at least send Rosli and Claire home - Rosli will then be able to help with the twins and represent a well known and constant presence - after all, Rix and Mary Lou are comparative strangers to the twins.

 

#430:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sat Jul 23, 2005 8:04 pm

The next day, Rix took Geoff to the San with him, wanting to give his wife the opportunity to continue with her archaeology article. Con had taken small Phil to the Rosleinalpe to visit Len and Laura, but Geoff had preferred the idea of the San and was wildly excited as they drove there.

“Didn’t your Daddy ever bring you here?” Rix asked as Geoff bounced up the steps.

“Sometimes. Can we go to see the ambulances please?”

“Course we can. I’ll ask Franz if he’ll let you sit in one – would you like that?”

Geoff nodded, his eyes shining. “Yes, please!”

“Good – now shall we see if we can find your Uncle Neil? Oh – good morning, Laurie.”

“Hello, Geoff! What have you been doing?” Laurie asked, grinning. He nodded at Rix.

“I fell off the sideboard.” Geoff said. “I’m going to sit in an ambulance!”

Laurie spoke to Geoff for a few more minutes, and then turned to Rix. “I can take Geoff to the x-ray department if you like. Tony and Peter always want to go there when they come in with me.” He said, unexpectedly, his tone quite friendly for once.

“Thanks.” Rix said, surprised. “If you’re sure you don’t mind.”

“Not at all. Come on, kiddo.” Laurie left, Geoff trailing after him. Rix went to his office.

 

#431:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sat Jul 23, 2005 8:15 pm

Blimey a friendly Laurie!! Has Rix had a word with him perhaps? Thanks Mia Very Happy

 

#432:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jul 23, 2005 8:36 pm

Good grief - what's happened? Rolling Eyes


Thanks Mia.

 

#433:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 12:00 am

He hadn’t expected to see Con that day, as it was not one of her days for working, so he was surprised when she came in, about an hour later.

“Hello! I thought you had Phil for the day?” he asked, standing up. She was so pale, he thought she was going to faint.

“I need my manuscript back,” she said, urgently. “Can I have it? Please,” she added, hastily.

“Of course – sorry. It’s really good, you know. Are you sending it to the publishers today?” Rix took it out of his bag and handed it to her.

“Did you read it all?” she demanded, almost snatching it in her haste. “Sorry, but I must dash,” she added.

“I read the first twelve chapters, I haven’t had much time... Look, sit down, won’t you? You look ill.” Rix kept hold of the manuscript, determined to not let her leave until she looked less anxious.

“No, I have to go… I don’t know what time I’ll be back tonight. I’ve left Phil with Len… I’m sorry.”

“Con, please! Tell me what’s wrong? It’s obvious something is and I promise I’ll help you.” Rix put his hand on Con’s shoulder.

She paused and he rather thought she might tell him. It was unfortunate that Laurie chose that moment to come in with Geoff.

Con started, and made a grab at the manuscript and Rix dropped it. The pages fell to the floor, falling everywhere. Con gave an exclamation of dismay, pulled away from her cousin and immediately knelt to pick them all up.

“What’s going on?” Laurie demanded. He stepped forward, then hesitated, “Con – are you all right? Did he hurt you?”

“Of course not!” she replied, shocked, scrabbling the papers together. Rix glared at Laurie and opened his mouth to deny the accusation, caught sight of Geoff’s shocked face and closed it again.

“What’s going on?” Laurie repeated, suspiciously, glaring back at Rix, who didn’t trust himself to speak. “I don’t know why you don’t just clear off back to London and stop upsetting people! We managed fine before you came here and sent Jack off. We all know you only want to get your feet under the table, you arrogant, little -!”

“Come on Geoff, I’ll take you to look at the ambulances.” Rix managed, his voice shaking from suppressed anger. Geoff looked scared and but followed him out at once, leaving Con crouching on the floor, picking up the rest of the papers and Laurie, who had no choice but to help her.

He hadn’t felt such blind rage since the incident with Gerard Ellingham at Maeve’s wedding; for a split second he had wanted to really hurt Laurie and the loss of control was frightening. He looked down at Geoff, whose blue eyes were opened wide.

“Shall I ask Franz if he can drive you around the Platz in one of the ambulances?” he suggested, taking hold of Geoff’s hand. “I expect he’ll even let you try the siren if I ask him and if you go to the far end of the Platz. Would you like that?”

“Yes please.” Geoff relaxed slightly, glad that Rix wasn’t angry with him, but he still looked troubled. “Rix – why was Uncle Laurie shouting? Did you really send Papa away?" he asked.

 

#434:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 4:59 am

Why on Earth should Laurie think Rix had hurt Con? Confused

Why was Con so desperate to get her manuscript back? Confused

What is in the rest of the manuscript that might have told Rix (and us) more? Confused

Questions, questions, questions. Rolling Eyes

Intriguing Mia, thank you. Laughing

 

#435:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 8:36 am

“I- I… No, it was your Daddy’s choice to go. He’s was ill and he needed some treatment to make him all better.” Rix said. To his horror, he felt as if he was going to cry, something he hadn’t done since he was a child. The pressure he was under was intolerable and he had nobody to talk to.

He took a deep breath. “He’ll be home soon. Uncle Laurie doesn’t understand.”

“I hate Uncle Laurie!” Geoff cried, “The next time I see him I’m going to kick him!”

“I beg your pardon? No you will not. And don’t let me hear you saying that again, please.”
Rix said, sternly and Geoff subsided at once.

“I’m just going to wash my face, Geoff. You stay here and I’ll just be two seconds.” Rix hurried into a nearby bathroom, leaving Geoff kicking at the wall and scowling. What his Aunt Madge called his ‘red-haired temper’ was roused and he was inwardly formulating all kinds of plans to get even with Laurie for shouting at his adored cousin.

 

#436:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 8:42 am

Awwww, lovely little Geoff!

Poor Rix though - he didn't ask for any of this - was just doing it as a favour for Jack.

 

#437:  Author: Rosy, Location: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 8:49 am

awwww

*scowls at Laurie*

*pats Geoff*

*hugs Con*

*sends Rix some duvet*

 

#438:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 10:09 am

“Have you told him?” Laurie asked Con, who shook her head.

“Good. There’s no need; I told you I’d sort it out, didn’t I? Just trust me.”

“Why should I trust you? You’re the last person I’d trust.” She returned, shoving the manuscript pages into her handbag and walking out.

Laurie stared after her, frowning.

 

#439:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 10:43 am

Oooohhh! Even more mystery! Loving this! Laughing

 

#440:  Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 11:16 am

What's Laurie done to Con? Why isn't Rix getting his cough checked out? Hmm, need a third question... Why didn't Geoff say 'you go first then' to Phil?

 

#441:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 11:42 am

Poor Rix how awful for him but Im so glad he didnt lose his temper that time. Laurie is just nasty, why hasnt he bothered to talk things ut with Rix rather than just build up misplaced discontent. And now Im really worried about Con. Confused

 

#442:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 12:00 pm

Thanks for the comments! Sorry if this is spreeing a bit..


Franz, the cheerful, young ambulance driver, took Geoff around the Platz three times. Rix sat on a low wall in the San gardens and smoked three cigarettes. He didn’t want to come across Laurie again until he was calmer.

He thought he would have to fire Laurie. There was nothing else he could do. He felt sorry for Daisy and the Rosomon children, but Laurie’s behaviour was unacceptable. Even if he hadn’t stolen the money, his aggression was too serious to be overlooked.

He stubbed out his cigarette, coughing, and thinking deeply, arriving at the decision to phone Jem Russell and see if he could suggest something.

He stood up and went back into the San, feeling rather apprehensive, but his office was deserted, both Laurie and Con had gone. He made some telephone enquiries and was told that Laurie was in the theatre and couldn’t be disturbed.

He decided to wait till Monday, there was always the slim chance that Laurie would apologise and he felt he owed it to their former friendship to give him a chance to explain his behaviour.

Sighing, he picked up the telephone receiver to place the call to his Uncle Jem in Australia and seek his advice.

 

#443:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 12:02 pm

Poor Rix - but as a doctor he should GET THAT COUGH LOOKED AT!!

 

#444:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 12:59 pm

Mysteries piling up here, Mia. Shocked

Any chance of unravelling a few for us any time soon? Evil or Very Mad

Thank you.

 

#445:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 1:11 pm

Mystery going to be wrapped up soon - i promise!


Peter Rosomon was playing happily in the school grounds. It was break time on Monday morning and he was finishing building a den with leaves and twigs. He was alone as usual, being a shy little boy who found it difficult to make friends. He was the youngest child in the Chalet School Kindergarten, having just celebrated his fifth birthday, but he was already showing signs of being clever. The KG babies, as the School referred to them, only did baby lessons, but Peter was steaming ahead with his work and his Mummy and Daddy were very pleased with him.

The den was nearly finished, too, which was good. He had spent a few weeks trying to build it in the far corner of the grounds, with the permission of kind Miss Phipps.

He looked up from his pleasant task to see Geoff Maynard looking at him. He knew Geoff, although they didn’t play together that much in school. Geoff was nearly two years older. Peter rather admired the older boy and thus spoke up, eagerly.

“Do you want to play in my den? I’ve nearly finished it,”

Geoff gave him a look of disgust and glared at him horribly. Peter was shocked and stepped back.

“I’d never want to play with you!” Geoff shouted, and then stamped on the den, crushing it completely and making sure that the twigs and branches Peter had so carefully selected were broken. “I hate you – and if you tell anyone about this, I’ll hit you!”

Peter started to cry at this terrible threat, but Geoff merely threw him a contemptuous look and stalked off, his hands in his pockets.

 

#446:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 1:48 pm

Poor Peter!

Thanks for all the lovely updates Mia. Kiss

Liz

 

#447:  Author: Rosy, Location: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 2:53 pm

poor Geoff. And poor Peter

 

#448:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 2:56 pm

Miss Phipps knew something was wrong. Peter’s red eyes and subdued manner told her as much, but he refused to answer her questions. Eventually she sent him off with Matron from St Agnes’s and addressed the rest of her class.

“Does anyone know why Peter is upset?”

They looked blank, so she didn’t pursue it. Peter was a sensitive child although he wasn’t usually prone to tears.

Geoff didn’t answer Miss Phipps but concentrated on finishing his drawing. He was pleased Peter was crying, it served Laurie right for being so mean and – although he was too young to rationalise it – making the younger boy miserable made him feel better about himself.

He knew his mother and father would not have approved of his behaviour, but he didn’t care. He was starting to hate them for going away.

 

#449:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 3:00 pm

Oh dear! Feel so sorry for little Peter - and poor Geoff - he's far too young to have been left. Crying or Very sad

 

#450:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 3:30 pm

Awwww! Poor confused Geoff

Thanks Mia

Liz

 

#451:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 3:34 pm

Hi - I've just created a spin off thread in St Hild's called Con's Secrets - however the secret will also be revealed here at the same time, most probably!

Sort of like a Hollyoaks after hours special! Laughing

 

#452:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 4:36 pm

Poor Peter and Geoff. Its dreadful that the adults have let things get to the state where their children are suffering. *bounces for spin offs* Thanks Mia Very Happy

 

#453:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 6:01 pm

thanks Mia. I think other people have covered all bits I'm wibbling about. Off to read the spin off!

 

#454:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 9:09 pm

Oh dear!

*gives Laurie and Jo a boot up the backside, Rix a very string backbone and Geoff and Peter lots of hugs*

Thanks Mia

*off to read the spin-off*

 

#455:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 9:28 pm

I'm enjoying this and the spinoff. I'm worried about Rix's cough. Geoff shouldn't take it out on Peter - what Laurie does is not down to Peter. I felt so sorry for Peter having his den knocked after he had spent ages and put so much care into making it.

 

#456:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 11:16 pm

The bell rang for the end of lessons, and the children ran to get into their coats. Miss Phipps had a special word for Peter as he left and Geoff was unable to get near him to whisper the threats he had wanted to. Still, they could keep for tomorrow and Peter’s fearful look had been enough.

Rix was waiting for them outside the Chalet, “Good day at school?” he asked, taking hold of Phil’s hand and ruffling Geoff’s thick red hair. “What’s this?”

“It’s my painting.” Geoff said, proudly. “It’s you and Mary-Lou and me and Phil in an ambulance.”

Rix choked on a laugh. Geoff had made Mary-Lou three times as wide as the other figures, presumably to represent her current figure, and he could just imagine her comments.

“You know your niece, Laura?” he asked, taking hold of the picture and also admiring Phil’s efforts.

“Yes – Len said she’ll call me Auntie when she can talk.” Phil said, proudly.

“Well, just before Easter Mary-Lou and I are going to have two babies – they’ll be your second cousins. What do you think about that?”

Phil did a little dance, “Are they in her tummy now? Can I help bath them? Are they twins like us? Are they girls or boys?”

“We think they’re twins, but of course we won’t know until they’re born. Of course you can help bath them. Geoff? What do you think, old man?”

“Can we still live with you when they come out of Mary-Lou's tummy?” Geoff asked his most pressing question, his anxious little face looking up at his cousin. “I mean, please?”

“What’s this? Well, you can live with us until your Mummy and Daddy come home, of course. After that, we’ll be moving back to England.”

“Don’t you want us when Mary-Lou has babies?” Geoff asked, his eyes filling with tears. Phil also stood stock-still as this previously unimagined horror dawned on her too.

“Of course we do.” Rix said at once. “You can come to us for holidays. And just think, Geoff, you’ll go to school soon and then we can come and see you for exeats and half terms – and you can see your Uncle Dick and Auntie Mollie at the Quadrant too.”

Geoff wiped his eyes, placated for the time being. Rix handed him his own handkerchief and changed the subject quickly.

 

#457:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 11:19 pm

Awwwww *hugs poor little Geoff * Phil*

They can come and live with me

Thanks Mia

Liz

 

#458:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Jul 24, 2005 11:47 pm

Oh the poor little mites!

*hugs them tightly*

I'll share them with you, Liz.

Thanks Mia.

 

#459:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Mon Jul 25, 2005 12:51 am

Oh, those poor twins.
Lots of hugs for them both.

 

#460:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Jul 25, 2005 3:39 am

Very telling that they wanted to stay with Rix and Mary Lou rather than their parents...

Thanks Mia.

 

#461:  Author: Lucy, Location: Leeds PostPosted: Mon Jul 25, 2005 8:44 am

Just caught up with this after the weekend - as usual so much has happened!!

Feel so sorry for Geoff and Phil, they're far to young to be abandoned in this way.

Also feeling very sorry for Rix - he never wanted to come to the San and now is so stressed. Looking forward tos eeing how this is all resolved.

Thanks Mia Very Happy

 

#462:  Author: Robin, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Jul 25, 2005 9:18 am

worried about that cough.
And Con's strange behaviour....

thanks mia but put us out of our misery soon!

 

#463:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Mon Jul 25, 2005 9:22 am

I do hope Geoff and Phil can be made to see that they ARE still wanted and loved - particularly by their mother *grrr*

Thanks, Mia

 

#464:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Jul 25, 2005 11:09 am

Jo needs a good slap with a rotting trout. she should never have left the children, and I bet she's annoying Jack and the staff at the Klinik in Biel. But that's one of the problems with shielding her from anything that's unpleasant - she won't know the real state of their finances.

 

#465:  Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Mon Jul 25, 2005 5:03 pm

Just hoping that all these problems can be resolved before long and definitely before Rix really does lose his job in London. Clearly Con knows way more than she's telling anyone, but the strain is telling on her - just hope she won't start sleep walking again.

It's so sad, too, to think that the twins would prefer to stay with Rix and Mary Lou, rather than their mother.


Thanks Mia

 

#466:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Jul 26, 2005 2:29 pm

“Daddy?”

“Mm?” Laurie was going through his post and didn’t look up.

“I don’t feel well. My tummy hurts. I-I don’t want to go to school.” Peter said, quietly.

Laurie looked up at this. Peter did look rather pale and there were shadows under his eyes. He put his letter down and lifted his small son up onto his knee.

“How does it hurt?” he asked, gently, as Peter squirmed around to bury his face into his father’s chest. It didn’t hurt at all and he didn’t like telling lies.

“It hurts in the middle,” he replied.

“Do you think it might go if you ate some breakfast? I’ll make you some toast and you can have marmalade for a treat.” Laurie was concerned, naturally, but also conscious that Daisy had already left and he had several things to do at the San that day. “Or if you really can’t face the day at school, I’ll take you to Freudesheim and see if Anna and Mrs Bettany can look after you? Would you like that?”

Laurie felt some surprise to hear himself making this suggestion. Mary-Lou had offered to babysit Peter and Mary previously on several occasions, but he had not been anxious to take her up on her offer for obvious reasons.

Peter stiffened, “N-no, I can go to school,” he half-whispered.

“There’s a good boy. Sit down here, and I’ll make you some of Daddy’s special toast.” Laurie went over to the stove and Peter was left to consider fearfully all the horrendous things that Geoff Maynard might do to him at school.

 

#467:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Tue Jul 26, 2005 2:32 pm

Geoff is bullying Peter?!

Shocked WHAT?! Shocked

there had better be a damn good explanation for this, Mia, preferably delivered sooner rather than later

 

#468:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Tue Jul 26, 2005 2:37 pm

*hits all the adults over their heads very hard*

Sort them out and dont let your children suffer!

Thnks Mia

 

#469:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Tue Jul 26, 2005 3:53 pm

It seems strange thinking of Mary-Lou as Mrs Bettany! I hope Geoff and Peter will be able to sort things out.

 

#470:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Jul 26, 2005 4:07 pm

*thinks Con has a lot of explaining to do if what she's been doing is at the root of all this*

Poor Peter - hope someone finds out soon and put a stop to it.

What a tangled web!

Thanks Mia

*edited because I can't spell, as per usual Embarassed *

Last edited by Josie on Wed Jul 27, 2005 9:55 am; edited 1 time in total

 

#471:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Jul 26, 2005 7:27 pm

Poor little Peter. Crying or Very sad

Thanks Mia.

 

#472:  Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Tue Jul 26, 2005 8:04 pm

Frances wrote
Quote:
Geoff is bullying Peter?!

WHAT?!

there had better be a damn good explanation for this, Mia, preferably delivered sooner rather than later

But there is a good explanation! (Err, in Geoff's eyes, anyway.)

 

#473:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Tue Jul 26, 2005 8:49 pm

Oh dear!

Thanks, Mia.

 

#474:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Wed Jul 27, 2005 1:37 am

Oh no! Those unhappy little children...Jo, what the hell are you playing at!!!

 

#475:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Jul 27, 2005 3:40 pm

Thanks Mia

Poor Peter - nice to see Laurie making him special toast though

Liz

 

#476:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Jul 28, 2005 8:35 am

Hm, is it Con who's doing the orders for the Meroxet, to get enough money to see her through writing a book?

 

#477:  Author: Lucy, Location: Leeds PostPosted: Thu Jul 28, 2005 10:38 am

Is it too soon to ask for any more Mia?

Lucy slipping away with cheeky grin Very Happy

Jennie - have a look in St Hilds at Con's secret and some things will be answered there.

 

#478:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Jul 28, 2005 11:01 am

He held his father’s hand tightly as Laurie took him to the Kindergarten, Geoff was there already with Phil and Dr Bettany.

“Right, I’ll see you later, Peter.” Laurie said, ruffling his hair. “Have a good day.”

Feeling like he was crying inside, Peter watched him leave. He tried to get past Geoff to get to his desk, but Geoff deliberately stood back to block him.

“Ex – excuse me,” Peter stammered.

“Geoffrey, what are you doing? Move out of the way, please.” Rix said, sharply. Geoff obeyed, but he glared at Peter horribly, Rix had been in a bad mood since last night when Con had spilt her tea and they had shouted at each other.

Geoff didn’t know what it was about as Mary-Lou had taken he and Phil out of the room at once, but later he had gone to listen at the door and had heard Con say something about having taken money by something called Meroxet. Geoff had been mystified and strained to hear more, but their voices had become very quiet and he had been unable to hear anything else.

The worst thing was that Rix had later opened the door and discovered him listening and had shouted at him for eavesdropping and being dishonourable. Geoff scowled when he remembered. Peter scurried away with a shy thank you.

“I’ve got to go. Mary-Lou will pick you up later.” Rix said, still looking horribly worried, Geoff thought. He suddenly felt ashamed of his behaviour.

He sat at his desk, feeling like he was going to cry. He looked up and saw Peter looking at him. Peter looked away immediately but Geoff ‘s feeling of hatred returned. He would find a way to make Peter pay.

 

#479:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Jul 28, 2005 11:12 am

Oh dear, this really has a lot of ramifications, doesn't it? Thanks, Mia.

 

#480:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Jul 28, 2005 11:24 am

Thanks Mia.

Please someone find out what's going on soon before geoff makes poor little Peter 'pay'.

 

#481:  Author: Lucy, Location: Leeds PostPosted: Thu Jul 28, 2005 11:27 am

Thanks for the update Mia!

Wibbling about how Geoff will make Peter pay. Hope someone steps in before it gets too serious.

Last edited by Lucy on Thu Jul 28, 2005 3:28 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#482:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Jul 28, 2005 11:29 am

Echoing Josie here - poor little Peter, and feeling sorry for Geoff too even though he's being a nasty little bully here.

Thanks Mia.

 

#483:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Thu Jul 28, 2005 11:35 am

Not easy problems to sort out by anybody. Crying or Very sad

Thanks, Mia

 

#484:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Jul 28, 2005 12:07 pm

What a muddled situation!

Thanks Mia

Liz

 

#485:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Thu Jul 28, 2005 3:56 pm

Poor all of them. I hope Geoff can begin to feel better about it all soon so that he can then give Peter a better time. Thanks Mia

 

#486:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Thu Jul 28, 2005 3:59 pm

I hope someone will be able to show Geoff the error of his ways.

 

#487:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Jul 29, 2005 3:44 pm

He got his first opportunity as Miss Phipps called for the children to go out for a quick walk around the Platz. This was a treat the tinies didn’t get very often, being chiefly confined to the School grounds, so they were all very excited. Even Peter forgot his woes for a few minutes, until Geoff took advantage of the exhilaration to give him a vicious pinch. Peter tried his hardest not to cry, but it was difficult and he shed a few silent tears as he pulled on his coat.

It was November, and although the first snows had yet to arrive, they were near. It was a cold day and Miss Phipps insisted that the eleven small children were well wrapped up with their feet safely in their nailed boots and scarves tied across their chests.

“Children! We’ll go through the garden at Freudesheim and walk a little way along the road – then we’ll turn back. It’s much too cold to go farther than that. Croc please!” she called, pleasantly, and they scrambled to obey. Geoff made sure he partnered Peter, who was too frightened to raise any objection.

Miss Phipps took charge of Phil, who they still tended to fuss over although the signs of her attack of polio were long past. Geoff made sure he and Peter joined the back of the crocodile.

“I hate you, Peter Rosomon,” Geoff hissed as they walked across the Freudesheim paved area, “An’ I hate your dad too.”

“Why?” Peter asked, nervously and near to tears. “What did I do?”

“I just do! An’ if you tell anyone then I’ll – I’ll really hurt you!” Geoff replied, tripping Peter up so that he crashed to the ground, grazing his knees and wailing loudly. “Miss Phipps! Peter tripped over!” he shouted.

“Oh no!” Miss Phipps ran to the back of the crocodile and helped Peter to sit up. One of his knees was cut quite deeply and she used her handkerchief to bind it up. “Geoff, quick, see if Dr Bettany is in – if not, we can ring up the San.”

Geoff had no choice but to do what she said and Rix was there, talking to Con in the hallway.

“Rix, Peter tripped up an’ cut his knee on the path.” He said, unable to keep the scorn from his voice. “Miss Phipps says can you come please.”

“Of course – Geoff, fetch the first aid kit please? It’s in the kitchen.” Rix said, pulling his coat on and going outside.

Geoff went to fetch the first aid kit. He couldn’t get Peter’s white face out of his mind and was starting to feel a little bit ashamed of himself.

 

#488:  Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh PostPosted: Fri Jul 29, 2005 4:00 pm

As he should! Poor little Peter.

Thanks, Mia.

 

#489:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Jul 30, 2005 1:20 pm

Geoff needs to be dealt with. His mother should come back to look after him, not leave him with other people.

 

#490:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sat Jul 30, 2005 9:12 pm

Rix came back in, carrying Peter who still looked very pale and unhappy. He had stopped crying. Miss Phipps and the other children from St Nicholas’ trooped in and Con took them all to the kitchen to get some milk from Anna. Geoff returned with the first aid kit and found Rix and Mary-Lou with Peter in the Saal.

"Thanks Geoff… You’ve been in the wars, haven’t you, young man?" Rix said to Peter, gently. "Let’s see what you’ve done to your knees."

Geoff sat down on the piano stool and frowned. Mary-Lou and Rix were fussing around Peter like anything and he felt pangs of jealousy.

Con appeared in the doorway. She had her eyes fixed on Peter as she addressed her brother.

"Geoff - Miss Phipps wants you to join them in the kitchen."

"Want to stay here." he mumbled, rebelliously, getting up reluctantly, but no-one paid him any attention. Con had gone upstairs almost before she had finished passing on Miss Phipps’s message.

Peter watched Geoff fearfully and only relaxed slightly when he had left. His knees hurt, but Dr and Mrs Bettany were being ever so nice and even Rufus was licking his hand.

"There - I’ve cleaned you up and bandaged your knees, Peter. Now, do you want to go and join the others or stay here for a short while?" Rix asked. He felt a great deal of pity for the small boy, who might soon have his world shattered, if his father decided to leave his family. "If you like, you can stay here for the afternoon with us. I’ll telephone Mummy at the San to let her know."

Peter nodded, thinking of Geoff. "Yes please, Dr Bettany," he said, quietly. "If - if I won’t be any trouble."

Rix grinned at him, "Of course you won’t be. Let me telephone your Mummy and then maybe we could have a game of something."

"Snakes and Ladders!" Mary-Lou called after him, enthusiastically, coming to sit next to Peter and giving him a hug.

Peter smiled, his unhappy feeling lifting slightly. Dr and Mrs Bettany were being kind to him and he didn’t have to worry about Geoff - at least for the rest of the day.

 

#491:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sun Jul 31, 2005 11:29 am

*hugs Peter* and poor Geoff too, he must be missing his parents so much. Sad Thanks Mia

 

#492:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sun Jul 31, 2005 1:22 pm

I do hope someone can sort out this problem before it becomes too major.

*feeling sorry for both of them* Crying or Very sad

Thanks, Mia

 

#493:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Aug 01, 2005 11:11 am

Thank you Mia. Poor Peter.

 

#494:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Aug 01, 2005 11:22 am

Peter played two games of Snakes and Ladders, triumphantly winning both; he then ate a delicious lunch cooked by Anna, followed by a nap on the sofa while Dr and Mrs Bettany talked in low voices, sitting at the table Mary-Lou used for writing her archaeology book.

He dreamt that Geoff was in the room watching him, and awoke crying out. Mrs Bettany – Auntie Mary-Lou as she had told him to call her – came over to him at once.

“Did you have a nightmare, pet?” she asked kindly. Peter nodded, but he wouldn’t tell her the details. How could he? Geoff would keep his threats if he did.

*

Daisy came to Freudesheim with her small daughter to collect Peter. Rix greeted her, but made his excuses and took Bruno for a walk around the School grounds whilst she chattered to Mary-Lou over Kaffee und Kuchen. Con’s affair with Laurie, and the result, was weighing heavily on his mind and he couldn’t face Daisy, who seemed so happy and content.

It was a crisp November day and looked as if it might snow. The girls were obviously all at lessons, so he released Bruno from his chain and let him run ahead around the largest lawn, while he followed at a more sedate pace, still deep in thought.

At least the San’s financial problems were over. Con had returned the money to him – thousands of francs – and they were safely locked in the Freudesheim safe until he could take them to the bank. The changes he had implemented, with the help of Daisy, Neil and the others were working out well. Jack would have no complaints when he came back to take charge.

 

#495:  Author: Richenda,  PostPosted: Mon Aug 01, 2005 11:32 am

Mia, I think you've made a little mistake - it says complete but you CAN'T stop it now!!! It's one of my favourite drabbles! What happens to Daisy, Laurie & Con? What happens to Jack? Is Geoff going to turn into A Bad Lot?

So many questions! PLEASE carry on!!

 

#496:  Author: Robin, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Aug 01, 2005 11:36 am

I agree with Richenda - that can't be complete! Mary-Lou hasn't had her babies yet, we don't know what Con is going to do, Geoff is still being a poisonous toad to poor little Peter, Jack isn't out of rehab....

think you're just toying with us Mia!! Smile

 

#497:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Aug 01, 2005 11:39 am

Richenda wrote:
It's one of my favourite drabbles!


Oh thank you, that's sweet of you.. but technically it *is* complete because the San's problems are over! Twisted Evil

I might do a continuation... if you really want me to! ? Very Happy I'm just a bit bored of Rix angsting over the San...

*Off to think of a title*

Robin wrote:
think you're just toying with us Mia!! Smile


Of course I am... what a cowbag I am! Any title suggestions for a third part? My mind is blank...

Last edited by Mia on Mon Aug 01, 2005 11:42 am; edited 1 time in total

 

#498:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Aug 01, 2005 11:41 am

Please do a continuation Mia, this was fantatsic!

 

#499:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Mon Aug 01, 2005 11:56 am

That was a lovely drabble. What was Laurie's problem with Rix though? Was it to do with Con's affair with Laurie and Daisy working at the San? Will some of the story carry on in Con's Secret or is that finished as well?

 

#500:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Aug 01, 2005 11:57 am

Mia, where's the real ending to this drabble? You must write a continuation, it's too good to leave it there.

 

#501:  Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh PostPosted: Mon Aug 01, 2005 1:09 pm

Of course there has to be a continuation! We need to know what happens to Laurie and Daisy and Con and see Mary-Lou and Rix becoming parents and and and ....

Thanks Mia. Wink

 

#502:  Author: Caroline, Location: Manchester PostPosted: Mon Aug 01, 2005 1:18 pm

Nooooooooooooooo (wails). You can't stop there, and so abruptly - there are Things we Need to Know.

Tell us about Con's Dilemma, and tell us sooooooon, please!

 

#503:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Aug 01, 2005 1:24 pm

Oh I feel really guilty now! I thought nobody was reading this anymore!

Of course I will finish Con's Secret and do a continuation.

Ha a Trilogy! Very Happy

 

#504:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Aug 01, 2005 1:59 pm

Thanks Mia, very satisfactory end to the San problem - but would like to see resolution of all the other little problems that have cropped up! Laughing

 

#505:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon Aug 01, 2005 3:17 pm

Im in the nooooooooooo it cant be finished camp, to many unanswered questions!! Glad theres to be a further part!!! Huzzah!

I really hope the Geoff/Peter thing can be resolved soon its so sad seeing them both upset and afraid. Oh and I want more baby naming fun! Wink

Thanks Mia Very Happy

 

#506:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Aug 01, 2005 4:48 pm

Thanks Mia

Glad the problem at the San is resolved, but hoping the bunny(ies?) will tell you lots more about Rix and Mary-Lou and everyone else!

Liz

 

#507:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Mon Aug 01, 2005 6:10 pm

Agreeing with everyone else here, Mia. Laughing

 

#508:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Tue Aug 02, 2005 12:57 am

Adding my twopence worth of encouragement, Mia!

 

#509:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Aug 02, 2005 7:51 am

Thanks Mia. Fab as ever.

Looking forward to Part 3 Very Happy

 

#510:  Author: keren, Location: Israel PostPosted: Tue Aug 02, 2005 7:53 am

Mia wrote:
Oh I feel really guilty now! I thought nobody was reading this anymore!

Of course I will finish Con's Secret and do a continuation.

Ha a Trilogy! Very Happy


This is one of my favorite drabbles.
Sometimes it is hard to keep up a story line, so skip a bit, and carry on a bit more from another point.

 

#511:  Author: Lucy, Location: Leeds PostPosted: Wed Aug 03, 2005 7:47 am

Looking forward to the third part Mia!!

Really enjoyed this - thanks alot Very Happy

 

#512:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Fri Aug 05, 2005 8:11 pm

Where is Con's Secret? I thought I was confuzzled!

Thanks Mia, that was wonderous - but we do need another drabble, you know! Very Happy

 

#513:  Author: Rosy, Location: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth PostPosted: Fri Aug 05, 2005 8:28 pm

*whines, wails and whimpers*

Please Mia you simply cannot do that. Thankyou for carrying on honey.


Your drabbles are so shiny!

 

#514:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sun Aug 07, 2005 5:39 pm

Mia that isn't an ending

that isn't even close!

I want the rest of the story and I want it now....OR....I will have a tantrum

so there

 

#515:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Sat Aug 13, 2005 5:56 pm

I've just finished reading Friend of the Family, followed by all of this drabble in one go and it's excellent, Mia! You've created a really plausible extension of the Chalet-universe and both stories are wonderfully written.

*off to read Con's story*

 

#516:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sat Aug 13, 2005 7:02 pm

Adds a further tuppence to the pleas for


MORE

What about :

Peter
Geoff
Laurie
Daisy
Jo
Jack
Mary Lou's twins
Rix's job
Con

Question

 

The CBB -> Ste Therese's House


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