The CBB :: View topic

#1: Air Raid Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Thu Aug 11, 2005 6:48 pm

The air raid had been going on for some hours; it had started a little after midnight, the wailing sound of the siren sounding loud and sharp in the cold early February air. The Staff and pupils of the Chalet School had dealt with air raids for some time now, the first such air raid some two and a half years ago. Their actions were almost routine.

In Green dormitory the girls all awoke immediately, the girls, aged eleven and upwards, had been through air raids before. They had been through countless air raid drills, but this was the first one this term. An excited muttering arose from some of them, Mollie Carew immediately spoke,
“No talking, everyone, just get ready, we’ll have the Staff or Prees here in seconds,”

Her voice seemed to calm the excited group and they all got up and reached for the clothes laid out on the chair next to their bed precisely for this purpose. The windows were all covered with blackout curtains and the girls knew better than to remove them, for light the girls used their torches and the eerie light produced sent up shadows on all the walls.

Mollie Carew, Form Prefect for Lower Third, and Dormitory Prefect, was the first to be ready having literally thrown her clothes on. She quickly went out of her cubicle and looked round. One or two of the other girls were almost as quick, and they smiled uncertainly at each other. “Hurry up, everyone,” Mollie said, her voice wobbling a little, “and line up ready to go.”

The door to the dormitory opened, a tall figure stood in the doorway, seen only in silhouette. One or two of the more nervous girls had to stifle a scream, then the figure spoke, “Everyone all right, here?” The clear tones of Elizabeth Arnett, suddenly seemed to calm everyone. The Head Girl walked into the room, “ Mollie, is every one ready?”

“N-n-not quite Elizabeth,” Mollie couldn’t quite stop the stutter as she felt the relief at having someone senior to take over.

Elizabeth looked across sharply then walked over, “It’ll be fine, Mollie,” she said very softly, so that only Mollie could hear, she squeezed the Junior’s shoulder and smiled. Mollie smiled back. Elizabeth looked round, “Everyone out!” she ordered, “Line up, ready to go! Lavender that means now.”

“Oh, but I must…” Lavender subsided, seeing the Head Girl glare at her.

The dormitory lined up and were marched out, along the corridor and down the stairs, as they marched they were joined by other dormitories, most of them with a Prefect or Senior at their head. As they made their way out to the underground shelters they were joined by some of the Senior dormitories, those thought responsible enough to not need any supervision. Through it all the Head Girl’s voice could be heard, calmly ordering everyone to make their way down to the shelter without fuss.

As they reached the shelters others of the School appeared, some of the Mistresses were there, leading in the very youngest pupils, settling everyone into their own spaces. Elizabeth Arnett led her groups along to the space set out for the Juniors, as she reached it Miss Slater appeared, her strong, no nonsense voice issuing commands to everyone, smiling at the younger girls and causing them to lose some of their fear.

As Elizabeth drew level with her the Maths Mistress turned to her,
“Thank you, Elizabeth and well done,” she said softly, “It’s so good being able to rely on our Prefects and Head Girl in times like this. Now, I’ll see to my brood, you get yourself over to Karen,” she pointed to where Karen and her army of kitchen staff had already set up a miniature kitchen and were busy warming milk, “help yourself to a drink and find a place to settle, you’ve done all that we could ask of you tonight, you deserve a break.”

Elizabeth, her dark red hair pulled back off her face in a plait, nodded, and suddenly seemed far younger than her 17 years. Now there was someone to take on the authority she could relax, and her expression, until then almost stern, suddenly eased.

“Thank you, Miss Slater,” she said, smiling.

Last edited by Lesley on Sun Sep 04, 2005 11:59 am; edited 11 times in total

#2: Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge

Posted: Thu Aug 11, 2005 7:46 pm

Thank you Lesley, that was lovely Very Happy

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

Posted: Thu Aug 11, 2005 7:49 pm

Thanks for that, Lesley. It was good to see how well the CS coped during an air raid.

#4: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Thu Aug 11, 2005 8:16 pm

Thanks Lesley. That was great. I loved seeing Elizabeth reassuring the juniors and then being reassured in her place.

#5: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Aug 11, 2005 8:18 pm

Great! A new drabble from Lesley.

And I'm going on holiday on sunday!! Crying or Very sad

#6: Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right!

Posted: Thu Aug 11, 2005 9:09 pm

Lovely Lesley. Thanks Smile

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

Posted: Thu Aug 11, 2005 9:18 pm

Oh that was a lovely view of the way that they coped. And how nice to see Elizabeth taking charge as she did. Thankyou Lesley

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

Posted: Thu Aug 11, 2005 9:35 pm

what a lovely Miss Slater! I can imagine that Elizabeth must have been as terrified as the Juniors but she handled it so well.

Thank you Lesley.

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

Posted: Thu Aug 11, 2005 9:58 pm

Miss Slater watched the Head Girl walk over to where Karen was handing out drinks, then her attention was taken by a sudden squabble, she looked across,

“Audrey, Elfie, that’s enough, if you cannot settle quietly I’ll set you both a number of Maths questions.”

Both girls subsided, the look of horror on both faces enough to make the young Mistress bite the inside of her lip for a few seconds to prevent her from laughing out loud. The rest of Lower Third and the Upper Third, all made their way over to settle themselves nearby; Miss Slater being responsible for both forms. Around her all the other mistresses were doing the same, freeing up some Mistresses to stand outside on fire watch, and covering for those Mistresses that didn’t live at the School. Unlike the first time the School experienced an air raid, by now the School Authorities had arranged for bunk beds to be built for all the girls. Bedding was not left there, of course, but Matron suddenly appeared with a number of her staff, Mistresses and senior girls carrying blankets and pillows.

Miss Slater, along with all the Mistresses there, handed out the bedding and got all the girls busy making their make-shift beds. As she did so the air raid siren suddenly stopped. The noise had been going on for so long that it startled everyone into silence when it stopped. Faintly, in that silence, could be heard the first sounds of the raid. The dull thrum of the aircraft engines, the distant sound of ack-ack guns and, ominously the thud and explosions of falling bombs. Pam Slater took a deep breath, trying to slow her own pounding heart, she looked across to where Hilary Burn and Mary Burnett were sat with their charges, recognising in their faces the same fear and concern as she felt. Watched as they both steeled themselves to continue to support and calm the girls, even as she did the same. She turned back to her group, her face showing none of her inner turmoil.

A short time later, all the beds were made up, ready, and the Prefects were coming round with mugs of hot milk. The doors leading to the outside had been firmly closed, both to give further protection and to keep out the cold. Matron, sitting beside one of the doors, started slightly when it opened sharply and a figure squeezed herself in through the narrow gap.

“Brrrr! It’s cold out there!” Miss Wilson said, in as quiet a voice as possible, under the circumstances.

Matey waited for the noise of the bombing to die down slightly before replying, “Any news?”

The Senior Mistress nodded, sitting beside the Matron she accepted a mug of warm milk, drank it down quickly. Matey pulled a blanket around her friend’s shoulders.

“Hilda’s got the radio on,” she said quietly, “the BBC are saying that a number of places are being hit. London, of course, and Coventry. Liverpool has also been targeted.”

“And these?” Matey winced as a particularly loud explosion reverberated.

“Cardiff we think,” Miss Wilson replied, “At least it’s in that direction,” she sighed and her expression darkened, “and they’re using incendiaries, half the sky is alight.”

“I suppose Hilda is staying out on watch with the others?”

“Yes, it’s unlikely but it would only take one of those blighters to get lost and decide to drop his bombs wherever.” The Senior Mistress checked her watch, “I said I’d arrange relief for everyone in an hour or so.”

Matey nodded, unable to reply as the sound of explosions, aircraft and guns grew louder and louder. The percussion sounds echoing within the shelter and shaking everyone.

#10: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Thu Aug 11, 2005 10:30 pm

Thank you Lesley, this is really interesting Very Happy

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

Posted: Thu Aug 11, 2005 10:57 pm

Oooh another update - thanks Lesley.

#12: Author: JustJen, Location: waiting for a bus

Posted: Thu Aug 11, 2005 11:53 pm

A very intersting story so far. Please update soon

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

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 12:33 am

Thank you Lesley. The atmosphere that you've created rings very true. Looking forward to more. Very Happy

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

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 5:05 am

Fascinating look at life in war time. Thanks Lesley.

PS why couldn't they have beds already made?

#15: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 7:26 am

Thanks, Lesley.

#16: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 8:09 am

Great, Lesley, and a wonderful depiction of Pam Slater's own terror.

But you're not having anything horrid happening to Hilda out there, are you?

#17: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 8:52 am

Wow thanks Lesley, this looks great. I like your portrayal of Pam Slater! Poor all of them in there, they must've been terrified.

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

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 10:14 am

Miss Di wrote:

PS why couldn't they have beds already made?

I'd guess Matey wouldn't want them getting into unaired beds.

Thank you Lesley. Wonderful description of the atmosphere of the time and feelings of the school and mistresses when caught up in an air-raid.

#19: Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 10:50 am

Just found this.

The Second World War is one of my own pet interests at the moment and this is really fascinating. We didn't have enough about it in the CS books in my opinion - thankyou for rectifying that Lesley!

It is lovely to see a bit more fleshing out of Pam Slater's character - I've always had a lot of sympathy for her and thought EBD treated her shamefully! Very Happy

Looking forward with eager anticipation to the next bit!

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

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 11:19 am

I hope everyone will be ok and nobody will be injured.

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

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 11:23 am

This looks really good Lesley and its nice to see more of Miss Slater Very Happy

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

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 3:31 pm

Thank you Lesley! This is excellent!

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

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 6:06 pm

Miss Di wrote:

PS why couldn't they have beds already made?

I was thinking of damp, being underground.

There were a number of cries and moans, particularly from the youngest girls but also from some of the more nervous or sensitive. The Staff were busy trying to calm fears and worries. Miss Wilson rose, but whatever she intended was forgotten as the door opened again and two figures appeared. Both the Senior Mistress and the Matron rushed to help on seeing who was there.

Miss Denny was a robust, somewhat stout woman in her late forties, she was almost always in good health. Which made the fact that her brother, Mr Denny, was often unwell, so obvious. Now she was half supporting him through the open door, both siblings well wrapped up against the cold. Matron immediately helped Miss Denny supporting the somewhat frail man. Mr Denny was wheezing and his face was drawn and pale. His shoulders rising and falling in an effort to draw in sufficient breath. The two women sat him on a bench that Miss Wilson hurriedly cleared of blankets and pillows. Matron placed a blanket around him and then looked across at Miss Denny,

“How long has this been going on?” she demanded abruptly.

Miss Denny shook her head, “Not long, it only started when we came out into the cold.”

“You should never have left your cottage…” Matey began.

At this the small bantam of a man stiffened and turned to look her directly in the face, “Madam,” he said, “I will never neglect my duty.”

“Your duty?”

Mr Denny indicated the rest of the School huddled in the underground shelter, “The young ladies,” he pronounced, “at this time, when the barbarian hoards are close, they require nourishment, not of the body, but of the soul. Music can provide that nourishment, allow the developing mind to rise above their fears and concerns. To attain perfection. I can, in some small way, help them in their journey.” The man was completely serious as he said this and his expression forbade any of the three women to gainsay his words. After a few minutes sat on the bench he had recovered enough to slowly stand and make his way over to stand near the centre of the shelter. His sister beside him, supporting him.

Miss Wilson and Matron watched, Miss Wilson chuckled slightly, “First time I’ve seen you bested in a long time, Matey,”

Matron looked across, her eyes narrowing, “For your information, Nell Wilson, he didn’t best me. He’s right, the girls need this.”

They watched as Mr Denny swiftly managed to arrange all the girls ready for a singing lesson, as calmly and precisely as if he were conducting the School in the Hall. He seemed to take no notice of the noise outside, nor of the shakes and rumbles within the shelter. As he continued, all the girls, even those that had been quietly crying, found themselves caught up in the lesson and the girls began to sing.

“Look at them,” Miss Wilson said quietly, “he does it every time, they’ve started to forget all of this horror.”

Matron nodded, “Yes, it’s his genius, and the reason I am allowing him to continue. He will suffer for this tomorrow, I’ll be there then to help.”

#24: Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right!

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 7:10 pm

Awwww lovely Plato.

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

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 7:14 pm

And lovely Matey.

#26: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 7:21 pm

Perfect Plato

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

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 7:55 pm

The Senior Mistress looked round more closely, yes, Mr Denny was working his magic on most of the girls, but the Staff? ‘Bill’ looked again, the Chalet School Staff were experienced and capable, they had been through this before, but even so, they all, without exception, looked strained and worried. Miss Wilson rose, she turned to look down at the Matron,

“Need to have a chat with the Staff,” she said quickly.

Matey nodded, “I was about to suggest it,” she said, “I’m going to have a word with Karen, ask her to arrange for hot drinks to be taken out to those on fire watch.”

The Senior Mistress nodded in return before turning and moving further into the shelter, catching the eye of some of the Mistresses she beckoned for them all to join her. The School, intent on singing a particularly difficult ballad, didn’t even notice when all the Mistresses joined the white haired woman over to one side, slightly sheltered from the sound of the singing.

Miss Wilson waited until she had all the Mistresses gathered around her, then, drawing a deep breath, she smiled widely, “Well ladies, how are we managing?” she said, her tones as matter-of-fact as if she were in the Staff Room. “Have we managed to lose any of the little treasures yet? No? Hilda will be disappointed, she was telling me only last night that we are becoming over-subscribed!”

There was a very subdued chuckle, one or two of the Staff seeming to relax slightly, lose the tenseness in their shoulders. Miss Wilson shook her head, her expression taking on a sad and almost mournful appearance, “You’ll have to do better, you know,” she said, “maybe on the way back you can contrive to accidentally misplace some of them. I’m sure you can think of some in your forms that you would prefer were no longer there?”

“I can,” Miss Slater said, under her breath, perhaps she didn’t mean to be overheard, but at that precise moment there was a momentary lull in the sound of the bombing, coupled with a change in the singing. The rest of the Staff all collapsed in silent giggles, Miss Wilson among them.

When she managed to control herself again she gently shook a finger at the bright red Maths Mistress, “Now, Pam, is that any way to make an impression?” she grinned. Her face became somewhat more serious as she looked round at the Staff, “Thank you all, ladies, you have done, and are doing a magnificent job. We’re proud of you. Now, Mr Denny will be giving his singing lesson for a while so I need a number of you to take over fire watch in about thirty minutes, wrap up warm because it’s cold outside. The rest of you, continue as before, you are a credit to your training and upbringing.”

She spent a little time chatting, ascertaining which of the women would be taking over the fire watch, taking the opportunity to make a few more jokes, pleased to see that her deliberately casual and carefree demeanour was helping them all to relax. Once she had spoken to all she dismissed them back to join in the singing. She resumed her seat next to the Matron.

“Well they look a little better,” Matey remarked, she looked across at where the Staff had re-joined their classes, whereas before almost all of them had been showing signs of strain, tensed shoulders, drawn faces, sharp movements, now they were all far more relaxed, smiling, joking. Matey was pleased to see they were also passing on that relaxation to the girls.

Miss Wilson nodded, “Hope so,” she said shortly, “we need them to be able to do their jobs without too much worry.”

The Matron turned to look at her friend; if the Chalet School Staff had suddenly lost a great deal of strain it was obvious where it had gone. Miss Wilson’s demeanour, now away from the Staff, was tense. She appeared, suddenly, to have taken on all the Staff’s concerns herself. ‘In fact,’ Matey thought, with insight, ‘that was precisely what she had done.’

“Are you all right, Nell?” She asked softly.

Miss Wilson shook herself, “Of course,” she smiled, though the smile was, slightly, forced.

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

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 7:57 pm

Thankyou Lesley

#29: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 9:11 pm

Well done, Lesley, this is capturing the atmosphere beautifully.

I hope it is only the concerns of the Staff devolving on her shoulders now she's cheered them up, and not something else.....

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

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 9:15 pm

Outside, in the cold February night; the ‘fire-watchers’ continued their vigil. Although the bombing was some miles away and the countryside surrounding the Chalet School of no strategic value, the woman had all heard of bombers ‘dumping their load’ prior to setting off back across the Channel. The CS authorities had no wish to discover, too late, that an incendiary device had hit Plas Howell. Simone de Bursac, Maths Mistress and ex-pupil, was one of the watchers. Simone was not normally at the School at night, being settled, with her small daughter, in a nearby house. However her parents were visiting and, when Miss Annersley had asked if she could return for a few days a week, it had seemed simpler to stay over. Now she wished, intently, that she was back home with her little girl and her parents. Gazing intently into the sky and the silhouette of the large building, watching for the tale-tell sign of a flickering fire.

Simone shivered, and stamped her feet against the cold, she looked up, the sky was clear, a myriad number of stars twinkled in the sky, ‘no wonder it is cold,’ she thought, ‘with no cloud cover to retain the heat.’ Her mind moved on to other subjects, well, to one subject really, the War. She silently thanked God that her parents and sister were safe, that they had been out of France when her poor country had succumbed. That Tante Therese had not lived to see her beloved Paris in the hands of the enemy. Then her thoughts moved to a certain young army captain…

“Is everything all right, Simone?” The low voice of Miss Annersley pierced her thoughts, Simone looked round in some confusion. Miss Annersley now stood beside her, looking across in some amusement.

“Oh, Miss Annersley,” Simone said quickly, “I am so sorry, I was deep in thought.

“Obviously,” the Head smiled, she proffered a tray, on it were a number of mugs, “from Karen,” she said, “in an attempt to keep us warm.”

Simone took a mug, sipped delicately, “It’s not coffee, is it?” she said in some surprise, coffee being very strictly rationed.

Miss Annersley nodded, “Yes, I’m afraid that it is,” she smiled conspiratorially then continued, “I find it is best not to enquire too deeply into exactly where Karen gets her supplies!”

Simone smiled in return, then spoke again, “I assure you, Miss Annersley, I was keeping watch.” She sounded worried.

The Head nodded, “I know, it is easy to watch and think at the same time,” she paused, then continued, “and my name is Hilda, Simone, I’m sure I’ve said this before!”

Simone smiled, “Yes Hilda,” she said, “I’ll try to remember.” She sighed slightly and Miss Annersley looked across quickly, a quizzical expression on her face. Simone hastened to explain, “I was just wondering, worrying,” she said, “about Andre and about all of us.”

Miss Annersley accepted the explanation, she thought for some seconds then replied, “He is a brave, resourceful young man,” she said comfortingly, “if anyone can survive the strains and stresses of war, he can. As for your family, they will be safe, they have shelters and Jack Maynard will ensure that they are well."

Simone nodded slightly, feeling a little uplifted by the conviction in her Head’s voice.

Miss Annersley continued, "I am sorry, Simone, that my request means that you are away from them."

"Oh, that's fine, Miss A...Hilda, I am happy to help, I will see Tessa in the morning." Simone smiled.

Miss Annersley nodded, marvelling anew at just how much Simone had changed from when a very young girl, then she had been a very emotional and jealous person, now she was self-reliant. After a few more seconds Miss Annersley stirred, “I must go, Grizel needs a drink too. Your relief will be here in about ten minutes Simone, then you can go in to the warm.”

Simone smiled, “Thank you,” then she said, her eyes dancing with amusement, “I must get warm soon, otherwise I will start to feel that a fire is a good thing!”

The sound of Miss Annersley muffled laughter floated back to Simone, warming her from the inside.

Last edited by Lesley on Sun Sep 04, 2005 9:37 am; edited 2 times in total

#31: Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire

Posted: Fri Aug 12, 2005 9:33 pm

Lovely updates, Lesley.

I especially loved the part about Plato struggling along to 'do his duty' - which was obviously so much needed. And Nell giving much needed morale to the staff but ending up with all their tension on her shoulders. And Hilda's conversation with Simone.

Actually that was nearly all of it! Thankyou!

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

Posted: Sat Aug 13, 2005 12:50 am

It's good to know that the Staff are scared sometimes as well as the girls. I enjoyed reading the talk between Simone and Hilda.

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

Posted: Sat Aug 13, 2005 8:41 am

Thank you Lesley. I love the way you are building the atmosphere so well. ANd the glimpses of humour in among all the worry and the strain.

#34: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Sat Aug 13, 2005 8:44 am

Hilda doing her usual comforting and uplifting.

Thanks, Lesley.

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

Posted: Sat Aug 13, 2005 11:08 am

Its lovely to see such detailed snippets of a range of characters. Thanks Lesley

#36: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Aug 13, 2005 2:21 pm

Thanks, Lesley, a lovely interweaving of humour and tension, as usual.

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

Posted: Sat Aug 13, 2005 8:41 pm

A short time later saw the Head standing next to Grizel Cochrane, Music Mistress and another ex-pupil. She handed a mug of hot coffee to the younger woman and stood next to her, sipping from the last mug placed on the tray.

“Is everything all right, Grizel?”

“Yes, of course.” Grizel looked over, her expression a little defensive, then, on seeing only concern on Miss Annersley’s face she relaxed slightly, “sorry, I’m a little upset.”

“Understandable,“ Miss Annersley replied soothingly, “this situation is upsetting for us all.” She looked puzzled when Grizel shook her head.

“No, not this, well, partly this,” Grizel stopped, somewhat confused.

Miss Annersley smiled, “Why don’t you start at the beginning, Grizel,” she said softly.

Grizel nodded, about to speak, she stopped as the sound of another wave of aircraft moved overhead, the deep noise of the engine not just heard, but felt, as her lungs reverberated to the sound. The two women watched silently, able to discern the shapes against the backdrop of stars.

“Heinkels,” Grizel said, her voice a little shaky, “I was hoping it was some of ours.”

The Head placed an arm around Grizel’s waist, “Perhaps they will be along soon,” she said, “and the anti aircraft batteries have been busy.”

When the wave had passed Grizel sipped from her mug then spoke, “I’m sorry about earlier, I had been thinking about something.”

“Did you want to tell me?”

Grizel nodded, both women were still watching the skies but standing together, “I was thinking,” she began, “While seeing that,” she indicated with her head to where there was a faint orange glow on the horizon, evidence that some at least of the bombs had found their mark in Cardiff.

“Oh?”

“Yes, I was thinking about during the Christmas holidays, I spent them at home, you know?”

Miss Annersley nodded, aware that Grizel had not expected to enjoy herself at home with her father and step mother. From certain snippets heard since, it appeared that Grizel had not been disappointed.

“Well one day I visited the cinema, watched the newsreel before the main feature. It showed pictures of the bombings in London and Coventry.” Grizel stopped for a moment, thinking, before continuing, “Seeing that, tonight, reminded me, that, regardless of my ’problems’ at home, I still have one.” Grizel turned to face the Head.

Miss Annersley nodded, understanding what Grizel meant, “Even a home with conflict is better than no home.”

“Yes, something like that, and also,” she turned to look over Plas Howell once more, “well, this is home really.”

Miss Annersley went to reply but before she could utter a word there was the sound of an aircraft in trouble. Both women swiftly scanned the skies, aware that the sound was close. Searchlights pierced the sky, appearing to be following a low-flying shape. There was further gunfire from an anti-aircraft battery only five miles away, the two women watched as ‘tracer’ bullets lit up the direction of fire. There in the searchlight, a bomber, German, badly hit and now falling. They watched as the aircraft fell, its forward momentum causing it slowly glide to Earth, at one point it looked as though it was going to crash onto the roof of the School, but then it was gliding past, smoke billowing out behind it. The two women moved round the School, following the stricken plane, and were in time to see it crash into a field some two or three miles away, the explosion momentarily eclipsing the light from Cardiff.

“Oh my God!” Grizel’s plea was said without thinking.

Miss Annersley placed an arm around Grizel’s shoulder, “They are with the Lord,” she said softly. A sharp movement nearby made both of them flinch.

“Who’s there?” The voice was English, as the two women stared a figure rose in front of them, dressed in battle fatigues and carrying a rifle, it was a British soldier. He gazed at the two, suspicion on his face, then suddenly relaxed, “Sorry Miss Annersley, Ma’am,” he addressed Miss Annersley, “Didn’t recognise you for a minute, you on fire watch?”

Miss Annersley nodded, “Corporal Johnson, I believe? You visited last term to check our shelters were suitable?”

The soldier smiled, moving a little closer Grizel was able to see he was carrying the rifle strapped across his chest, she was puzzled for some seconds until he twisted and Grizel saw that the left sleeve of his battle jacket was empty. He obviously guessed as to her change in expression,

“Lost it at Dunkirk, Ma’am,” he said by way of explanation, “they wouldn’t let me stay in with only the one, not even to go back and get it! So, here I am!” He pointed to the lettering on his tunic, it read Home Guard. He smiled slightly and Grizel, not normally friendly toward strangers, found herself responding.

“Do you think there’s any chance?” she asked, indicating the flaming wreckage of the plane.

The Corporal shook his head, “Nah, they’ve copped it, poor bastards….oh sorry Ma’am!”

Miss Annersley smiled, “Will you and your men be dealing with the wreckage, Corporal?”

“Yes, Miss Annersley. should take us an hour or two to get everything sorted.”

“Then, once you have finished, come back to the shelter, I’ll ask our cook to have some coffee waiting for you.”

Last edited by Lesley on Sat Aug 13, 2005 9:02 pm; edited 1 time in total

#38: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Sat Aug 13, 2005 8:57 pm

Grizel being forced to face some home truths - that she is better off than many people.

Hilda her usual strong, gentle self, dispensing comfort all round.

It makes you wonder how brave we ourselves would be in the same circumstances.

Thanks, Lesley.

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

Posted: Sat Aug 13, 2005 10:03 pm

thanks Lesley - it's really interesting to see snapshots of all the staff and what they are thinking. Hilda is her usual brave and comforting self once again, and they are really drawing on her inner strength.

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

Posted: Sat Aug 13, 2005 10:07 pm

It was nice to see the chat between Hilda and Grizel.

#41: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Aug 14, 2005 2:07 pm

Great episode, Lesley. I'm glad to see that Grizel is more reconciled to her home life.

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

Posted: Sun Aug 14, 2005 4:20 pm

With acknowledgements to William Blake - and possibly John Milton.

Inside the shelter the noise of the doomed German bomber had managed to over-ride even Mr Denny’s efforts. Partway through a chorus the noise penetrated such that everyone fell silent, even the singing master himself looking up with concern, as trying to see through the ceiling. Some of the younger girls screamed or moaned, clutching hold of those closest. A number of the Prefects had taken it upon themselves to sit in with the girls and now found themselves with a number of younger ones clustered around them. The Staff too, those not about to go out on fire watch, immediately made their way to sit with the girls, smiling round at all, and enjoining those crying to dry their tears.

Some minutes after the loudest explosion, the one that caused the ground to shake, the door was opened and a number of very cold, shivering women appeared, while a number of the other Mistresses braced themselves and walked out into the bitter night. The noise inside the shelter rose as a number of the younger girls and even some of the young servants - of a similar age to the girls, after all - were unable to stifle small screams of fear. Then, a final figure entered the shelter; the Head was shivering, her face drained of all colour, yet, as she entered, she looked round anxiously, more concerned about others than he own comfort.

Miss Wilson and Matron moved across; Matey dispensing blankets to the Staff that had just entered, ordering a number of the young kitchen maids to dry their tears and fetch hot drinks for the Mistresses. When they returned with the drinks she gave the young girls a rare smile, causing all of them to feel heartened. Miss Wilson moved across to the Head,

“You shouldn’t have stayed out so long,” she said fiercely, while, at the same time, throwing a blanket around Miss Annersley’s shoulders and grasping her hands to warm them.

Miss Annersley smiled, recognising the combination of worry and annoyance in the Senior Mistress. “You would prefer that I ignore our Staff outside, Nell?” she asked gently, a slight smile about lips that were still blue with cold.

“No, of course not,” Miss Wilson glared at her friend, “but you must remember to look after yourself.”

A maid appeared with a hot drink, Miss Annersley took the cup, thanked the girl warmly and was pleased to see an answering smile from her. After sipping some of the hot liquid she looked around, “How are things in here?”

The Senior Mistress shook her head, “Tense, everyone’s frightened of course…”

Matey appeared in time to hear the last part of that sentence and added, “But far less so now, Nell saw to that.”

Miss Annersley looked across questioningly and Miss Wilson shrugged, “I just got the Staff smiling, that’s all, relieved the tension a bit.”

The Head nodded, “And then the sound of that aircraft overhead?”

“Reminded everyone of exactly what’s happening out there.” Miss Wilson said grimly.

At her tone Miss Annersley and Matron exchanged quick worried glances. Miss Annersley took a deep breath and smiled, “Well, let’s see if we cannot help the girls and Staff to remember why this terrible conflict is being fought.”

So saying she walked swiftly across to speak to the Singing Master. The two spoke for some time before Mr Denny, with one of his sharp inclinations of his head, finished speaking with a soft, “It shall be done, Madam.”

He moved back into the centre of the shelter and looked round, “For this, our next performance I will require that you all stand,” There was silence from everyone and the Music Master’s face darkened, “Stand, immediately, all of you!” He glared round and even the Mistresses found themselves standing swiftly. The man nodded, “We will now sing the hymnal Jerusalem, for those of you who are not English, I suggest, in your mind, you replace your own country’s name where England is sung. And remember, all of you, young and old, why we must endure this horror, why we fight.”

So saying he quickly hummed the starting notes before conducting the entire School.

And did those feet in ancient time
Walk upon England’s mountains green?
And was the Holy Lamb of God
On England’s pleasant pastures seen?
And did the countenance divine
Shine forth upon our clouded hills?
And was Jerusalem builded here
Among these dark satanic mills?

Bring me my bow of burning gold!
Bring me my arrows of desire!
Bring me my spear! O clouds, unfold!
Bring me my chariot of fire!
I will not cease from mental fight,
Nor shall my sword sleep in my hand,
Till we have built Jerusalem
In England’s green and pleasant land.

When the School came to the end of the two verses he immediately signalled for them to begin again, and, in total, the two verses were repeated four times before Mr Denny was satisfied. When he eventually signalled that they should stop more than half the girls and even some of the Staff had tears in their eyes and streaming down their faces.

Mr Denny looked round, “Now you understand,” he said, “Now we can continue. Next we will sing Bunyan’s Pilgrim Song, attention maidens, I do not wish to hear the notes sung incorrectly.”

Last edited by Lesley on Sun Aug 14, 2005 8:18 pm; edited 1 time in total

#43: Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Posted: Sun Aug 14, 2005 5:14 pm

This is really good Lesley, I can picture each scene vividly as you describe it.

#44: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Sun Aug 14, 2005 6:45 pm

Bless you, Hilda, you never let them down, do you? Very Happy

Thanks, Lesley.

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

Posted: Sun Aug 14, 2005 10:50 pm

The impromptu singing lesson went on, against a backdrop of noise from outside that seemed to go on and on. As time moved on Mr Denny moved from the more uplifting songs, to quieter ones, to songs that didn’t disturb the many girls, who found that, despite the noise and fear, that sleep still claimed them. Finally, as the sounds of the bombing and the noise of the aircraft faded, the Singing Master moved to one final song. It was a surprise to many, but all immediately recognised just how apt were the words.

“In English, I think,” he said quietly, after a long pause when there had been no sound from outside, “My ladies, this is, perhaps, some weeks too late, but I believe Our Saviour will understand. While you sing this, remember the original language was German, that our fight is not against a race but against a tyranny.” He raised his baton, hummed the first few notes, then began…

Silent night, Holy night…..

All those still awake joined in; the mistresses returning from fire watch, now disbanded as the bombing had almost stopped, the girls still awake, the Staff, even the kitchen staff that were still awake. The final notes seemed to hang in the air for seconds afterwards…

With a smile the Head walked across to stand beside the Singing Master, she looked round at those girls and Staff still awake, “We expect the ‘All Clear‘ to sound soon,” she began, “But will not be moving before the morning. Get into bed, those of you who haven‘t until now, and sleep, we have had a busy evening. Good night everyone, and God Bless.”

There was a subdued murmur of replies, the Head waited while everyone quickly settled, watched as Matron went round ensuring that most of the lights were extinguished, leaving just a few lanterns alight. She then turned to the man beside her, “My thanks Mr Denny,” she said quietly.

‘Plato’ bowed slightly, “My pleasure Madam,” he turned as his sister appeared,

“Tristam I have arranged for a spot over in that corner, come, you must be exhausted.”

The man did not argue with his sister, instead allowing her to help him over to where Matey had set aside a small area and set out blankets and pillows. With an efficiency that told of countless repetitions, Miss Denny helped her brother into bed, saw him settled, before lying down herself.

Only a short time later there were only three people still awake, Matron was the first of the three to return to their stop, after checking all the lights she had ensured all the kitchen and domestic staff were settled, then returned to her bed. A short time later the Head and Senior Mistress appeared from outside where they had made a final check of the grounds. Then took the hot drinks from the Matron gratefully while sitting on one of the beds, huddled together in an attempt to warm themselves.

“Everything all right out there?” Matron said quietly.

“All quiet,” Miss Wilson said, “even some of the light from over Cardiff way has died down.”

“Has everyone settled, Gwynneth?” this from Miss Annersley.

Matron nodded, “Yes,” she said, “once again we three are the last,”

“That seems to happen nearly every time,” Miss Annersley observed, “as does the use of song to help everyone through the night.”

Miss Wilson indicated the alcove opposite where the Dennys slept, “He is certainly a remarkable man,” she said, she looked across at the other two, “do you remember, years ago, when we were in Tyrol, Sarah telling us why his lungs were so bad?”

The other two nodded, “Of course, Nell,” the Head replied, “it’s not something any of us will forget.”

The three women fell silent, remembering, for some reason the three and Sarah Denny had been the only ones in the Staff Room one evening, back when Miss Annersley had been Senior Mistress. The Singing Master had been admitted to the San on the Sonnalpe for a few days rest and recuperation and the three others had been attempting to keep Miss Denny from fretting. She, in turn, had related her story. Tristam Denny was some years younger than his sister, being born near the end of the previous century. That had meant that he had turned eighteen at the beginning of 1916, an auspicious time. Like all young men he had been conscripted into the British army, to fight the ‘War to end All Wars’, though a less prepossessing soldier had never been seen.

Tristam Denny, even at the age of 18, was an unusual man, tall but very gaunt, given to dress as though from an entirely different time and with speech patterns that were archaic and antiquated. He was also an accomplished musician and intending to enter university to study Music. However he was also a man with a strong sense of duty and wanted to serve his country. Miss Denny swallowed sharply at this point, however, and she gently explained that although her brother wanted to serve his country and was fiercely patriotic, he was also adamant that he could not kill.

When she had said these words she had glanced round quickly, almost afraid of the reaction, Matron Lloyd was nodding slightly, Miss Annersley, her face still, was obviously waiting for more information, though she did seem a little tense, having a brother that had fought in the War. And Miss Wilson, she looked across, Miss Wilson was thinking hard, she looked over at Miss Denny, her face showing disapproval, but not outright condemnation. Miss Denny nodded slightly, aware that all three women were prepared to hear the full story.

Tristam Denny then, after a large number of interviews with the Army, was termed a conscientious objector - and many made it obvious that this was just another way of saying coward. But the young man was no coward; deemed a medic and sent to the Front as a stretcher bearer. He had seen action in one of the bloodiest battles known to mankind, the Battle of the Somme.

“He was there for three weeks,” his sister had explained, “crawling out into no-man’s land with a stretcher to retrieve wounded men. He didn’t even carry a weapon to defend himself. On one day he went out three times to retrieve men wounded during an earlier push, did so even while the enemy was firing at him. The third time, while on his way there, the cry went up that Gas was being used. When he reached the wounded man it was to discover that his gas mask had been lost. Mr Denny had strapped his own mask on the man and dragged him back to safety, his own strength far greater than expected.”

The three women were silent, feeling almost guilty over their earlier thoughts, Mr Denny had been honourably discharged on medical reasons from the Army, he had also been awarded a medal for valour

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

Posted: Sun Aug 14, 2005 11:02 pm

what a hero!

Thanks Lesley

Liz

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

Posted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 12:51 am

Courage comes in so many forms....I am so moved by this, Lesley, thank you.

#48: Author: JustJen, Location: waiting for a bus

Posted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 2:29 am

Your drabble comfirms what I always thought about Mr. Denny during the WW1.
Thank you so much for posting

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

Posted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 9:03 am

Thank you Lesley. As often I'm in awe of your ability to paint pictures and characters with your words.

#50: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 9:23 am

I've just read lots of this in one go and it's really amazing. Thanks Lesley and looking forward immensely to some more! Very Happy

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

Posted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 10:01 am

Thank you Lesley!

I'm all goosebumpy now!

#52: Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England

Posted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 12:59 pm

I am enjoying this so much, thanks Lesley! I love the heroic past of Plato Very Happy

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

Posted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 3:58 pm

Lisa wrote:

I love the heroic past of Plato Very Happy

So do I! This is wonderful; thanks Lesley.

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

Posted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 6:03 pm

awww Lesley that was so touching. Thank you

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

Posted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 6:30 pm

Years later, in the quiet of the shelter the three women all looked over at the sleeping man, aware, by his example, that courage came in all shapes and sizes. After some seconds Matron Lloyd was the first to move,

“Well it’s almost three thirty, we’ll be lucky if the girls sleep past eight, if then,” she smiled slightly at the other two, “and you both know as well as I that we’ll have any amount of mischief and tears tomorrow.”

“Or later today,” Miss Wilson put in quickly.

The Matron nodded, turning to face Miss Annersley she continued, “I instructed Karen not to begin breakfast until eight, later if she and her staff sleep later.”

The Head nodded, “That’s fine, Matey,” she confirmed.

“Then I’m for my bed, goodnight you two, don’t be long getting to sleep yourselves!”

“Yes Gwynneth, goodnight,” the words were a chorus from both women. They watched as Matron picked up a lantern and made her way across to her own bunk. A short time later the lantern was extinguished and they could both hear the tiny sounds of deep breathing indicating she was sleeping too. The Senior Mistress looked across at her friend.

“Would you like another drink, Hilda? I think I can squeeze another cup each from the pot.”

Miss Annersley nodded and passed her mug across; the two sat on the bunk sipping tea for some time, both of them alert for any untoward sounds. After a time Miss Wilson drained her mug, stretched and yawned,

“We’d better try and sleep too, Hilda, we’ll be fit for nowt come morning otherwise,” she paused for a second then quickly added, “and I know my English was poor – it’s nearly four in the morning, what do you expect?”

The Head smiled, “I’ll forgive you, Nell, this time. However, for all the times when you haven’t the excuse of extreme tiredness…” She grinned at her friend.

Miss Wilson contrived to look hurt but couldn’t stop smiling in return, “I’ll bid you ‘good night’ then,” she said, leaning forward as the first movement toward rising from the bunk, she stopped however when Miss Annersley placed a hand on her arm.

“Wait, Nell,” she said gently.

Miss Wilson sat back, obediently and waited.

“Are you feeling better now?”

Miss Wilson’s eyes widened, “How did you know?”

“I knew.”

The Senior Mistress thought for a minute, “It doesn’t affect me all the time, you know? Just occasionally.”

“When did it start, this time? When you entered the shelter?”

Miss Wilson shook her head, “No, that was fine, no problem. It was after I’d spoken to the Staff, cheered them all up, got them smiling again.”

“Ah, you’d taken their worries onto your own shoulders.”

“Yes but it’s something we do automatically, it shouldn’t have affected me,” Miss Wilson sounded angry with herself.

Miss Annersley placed her hand on Miss Wilson’s shoulder, “It might affect you,” she said softly, “if you are the person with responsibility, if you are underground and if you know that an enemy is outside. It’s going to cause you to remember. But it didn’t stop you from doing anything, did it?”

Miss Wilson shook her head, “No, I can work through it, it’s just a little uncomfortable, that’s all.”

“And now?”

“No, nothing now, the feelings went the second you came in from fire watch, I couldn’t work it out at first, then it struck me, I didn’t have sole responsibility then, same as once we were out of that tunnel and had met Jem.”

The Head nodded, “The feelings will ease, Nell, a few years and they’ll go completely.”

“I know,” the Senior Mistress smiled, “thanks Hilda.” She rose then, “Now I’ve really got to go to bed, and you’re sitting on my bunk.”

Miss Annersley rose, smiling, she moved across to her own bunk and the two women settled swiftly. Barely minutes later and all inhabitants of the shelter were sleeping peacefully.

#56: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 9:18 pm

Thank you Lesley. I too have an interest in what was 'not' written about the CS during WW2. This is so moving.

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

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 12:18 am

Thanks Lesley

Hilda never ceases to amaze me - her perception is unparalleled. Who else would have known what Nell was feeling at that moment? And who else would have had the calm assurance to comment?

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

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 2:36 am

Oh, I'd wondered about this I imagined Nell gritting her teeth and just getting on with it...she probably isn't all that happy about small enclosed spaces at the best of times. Lovely perceptive Hilda!

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

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 9:17 am

Thank you Lesley. Nothing to add to the above comments but yes!

#60: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 9:23 am

Thanks Lesley, I am really enjoying this! Very Happy

#61: Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 9:29 am

Excellent!

#62: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 10:20 am

This is so good, Lesely, adding such depth to the characters.

#63: Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 12:32 pm

Exactly why Miss Wilson was feeling edgy hadn't occurred to me - but of course, that makes perfect sense. Good for Hilda!

And Plato the hero! That makes perfect sense too - and will be canon for me from now on!

Thankyou Lesley Very Happy

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

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 6:38 pm

Aftermath

Daylight brought consequences; no one had managed to sleep very well, and certainly not for long enough. There were any number of grumbles and whines from the girls when, a little after eight, they started waking and were immediately tasked by Matron with folding up all their blankets and pillows to take back into the School. The kitchen staff had disappeared a little earlier and, as the Head was herself folding up her blankets, one of the maids appeared with the news that breakfast would be served at nine. The next fifty minutes or so were the normal frantic rush to get everyone up, bathed and dressed in time.

At breakfast Miss Annersley viewed the School, seeing the many white faces and heavy eyes, not just from the girls, but from the Staff too. On one of the tables inhabited by the Middles she saw how the Prefect in charge had a number of squabbles to deal with, in fact, looking round, she saw a number of other petty disagreements and arguments brewing – even some on the Staff table! She rose to address the School,

“I think,” she said in her soft tones, “that we would all benefit from a little more sleep. Therefore, after breakfast, there will be a change to the normal routine, we will immediately file into the Hall for Prayers, you are then to return to your dormitories to make your beds and tidy your cubicles, however, rather than then start lessons, there will be a two hour break. You will all lie on your beds with blankets, there is to be no talking.” Miss Annersley smiled, and her entire demeanour warmed, “I do not expect any of you to be awake within ten minutes! We will recommence normal lessons after lunch.”

She sat down then, ignoring the hum of conversation that arose from her order, she smiled across at Miss Wilson who had just arrived in the Dining Room,

“How is he?”

Miss Wilson grimaced slightly, “Not wonderful,” she said, “Matey’s got him in the San, it’s likely he’ll be off for the next few days. She said she’d let us know if there was any change, oh and she’s asked Jem to come across and check him out.”

Miss Annersley nodded, then suddenly rose to her feet again, the School fell silent, wondering if they had been too noisy, Miss Annersley smiled, “I meant to say earlier,” she said quickly, “I have been in contact with both Lady Russell and Mrs Maynard this morning. Both families are fit and well and were unhurt by the events last night…Yes Sybil?”

Sybil Russell, eldest daughter of Sir James and Lady Russell, had raised her hand, “Can I go and see Mummy, Auntie Hilda?”

The Head said nothing, just looked, Sybil coloured furiously and said, “I mean, Miss Annersley.”

Miss Annersley smiled slightly, “Not at present, Sybil, you are a full boarder remember, you have no more privileges than any other boarder, some of whom have parents living a long way away.”

“Oh, but…” Sybil stopped suddenly as her friend Blossom nudged her in the ribs.

Miss Annersley ignored the exchange, instead indicating to the School that they continue their breakfast. She sat down again and smiled round the Staff table, “I’ll not insist on either silence or that you lie on your beds and sleep,” she said quickly to all the Mistresses, “but I would recommend it!”

There was a chuckle round the Staff Table.

The rest of the morning was eerily quiet within the School, Miss Annersley had ensured that all the domestic staff had also taken a break, both to avoid them disturbing the girls and because they would also be very tired. She had also been pleased to see that the majority of the Mistresses had taken themselves to bed too. Those few that remained awake relaxed in the Staff Room, reading and listening to the radio. Occasionally one of them would take a walk around all the dormitories to report back that almost all the girls were sleeping.

At lunch everyone appeared very subdued, only having awoken some fifteen minutes previously, however they did seem somewhat more cheerful! After the meal Miss Annersley rose to say that normal lessons would start in the afternoon, she also said that everyone was to go to bed early, at this pronouncement there were a number of long faces, however these disappeared when she also said there was to be no prep that evening. The rest of the day went very well and by the evening the girls were all secretly glad of the early night.

The Staff too were pleased of the time, and the fact that no Prep meant no marking! Most of them had retired to their rooms before ten pm. Miss Wilson, herself normally quite late to retire, was on her way to her room when something suddenly occurred to her. Retracing her steps she walked back downstairs and along to the Library. Opening the door quietly she looked inside,

“Ah, caught you!”

The woman inside jumped, looked across, “Nell Wilson, must you behave like a Middle? I nearly jumped out of my skin!” It was Miss Annersley.

The Senior Mistress looked unrepentant, “If it means that I catch you then yes,” she said determinedly, “Hilda what are you doing?”

The Head looked over at her friend and then, pointedly, down at the papers on her desk. She smiled slightly, “I’m waiting for a bus, Nell,” she said, her eyes dancing.

Miss Wilson glared, “Don’t be sarcastic, Hilda, you know what I mean.”

At this Miss Annersley raised an eyebrow but forbore comment. Miss Wilson continued,

“Why are you still working? I know for a fact that you didn’t take advantage of the morning off to catch up on your sleep. Everyone else did.”

“There had to be someone here, Nell, to answer the telephone,” Miss Annersley tried to explain, “and I had to check the damage, one of the servant’s rooms had a broken window, due to that downed German plane being so close.”

Miss Wilson shook her head, “That’s no excuse, Hilda, you could have got others to help, you could have asked me.”

“You needed your sleep, Nell…”

“And you don’t?” Miss Wilson walked across to sit on the corner of the Head’s desk, she looked seriously at her friend, “Look at yourself, Hilda, really look at yourself, you’re ‘all eyes’, you’re pale and I’ll bet you have a headache. You’ll make yourself unwell you keep this up.”

Miss Annersley smiled warmly at her friend recognising her concern, “the work needs to be done, Nell,” she said softly, “I ask enough of Rosalie, the rest is my responsibility.” She pointed to the full in-tray, the files and papers, the pile of opened and unopened envelopes.

Miss Wilson sighed, “Can I do more for you?”

Miss Annersley shook her head, “No Nell, you have enough to do, being Senior Mistress. I’ll manage. Besides, I can always relax at Half Term.”

“But you won’t, will you? I mean you hardly had a break over Christmas, did you?”

“Of course I did, Nell, I stayed with some old friends of mine, you were the one who stayed at the School.”

“Yes, but you took an entire case of work away with you, didn’t you? I saw you packing all the files and papers.”

The Head shrugged, “I have to keep up,” she said simply.

“Well not tonight,” the Senior Mistress was adamant, “Come on Hilda, you must admit you need to sleep. Go up to bed now, I’ll see if I can scrounge the pair of us a cup of cocoa.”

Miss Annersley smiled tiredly and acquiesced, placing all the files and papers into a drawer and locking it.

Some twenty minutes later saw Miss Wilson tapping gently on Miss Annersley’s bedroom door, at the soft ‘come in’ she entered, balancing the tray on one hand,

“Managed to find some biscuits too, here, have one,” she passed across a cup of cocoa and some biscuits before sitting herself on the only chair, leaving her friend to sit on the bed. The two women sat in silence for a time, both sipping the hot cocoa. Eventually Miss Annersley finished her drink then looked across,

“Thank you Nell, I needed that,”

Miss Wilson nodded, “And you need the sleep, Hilda, you don’t want to make yourself ill.”

The Head smiled but said nothing. Miss Wilson finished her drink then rose, “I’d better be off to bed too,” her expression turned stern, “And in future you look after yourself, do you promise?”

“I’ll try Nell, but I will give this School of my best.”

“I know that,” the Senior Mistress said impatiently, “I meant that you’ll also ensure you get enough rest and take proper holidays…which reminds me, have been meaning to mention this for a while, what are you doing for the Easter hols?”

“I’ve nothing planned, why?”

“Well I’ve got to go to Cornwall, some business or other, but wondered if you fancied coming along? We could make a proper touring holiday of Devon and Cornwall, might be lucky with the weather even.”

Miss Annersley considered, “That sounds good,” she said, “yes, I’d love too. It has been some time since I had a proper break.”

“Good,” Miss Wilson smiled, “we’ll sort out details nearer the time, there are any number of decent guest houses around, or we could even stay at a farm, see some of the countryside. As you say, a proper break from the responsibilities of the School. And you are not to bring any work with you!”

“No Nell,” Miss Annersley said demurely.

“I mean it, Hilda, I catch you not getting enough rest and sleep again I’ll…I’ll…” the Senior Mistress floundered for a moment then rallied, “I’ll tell Matey, let her deal with you.”

Miss Annersley, in the act of getting into bed, straightened, “Well really Nell Wilson, I never realised you had such an evil streak in you!”

THE END

#65: Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 6:48 pm

Good for Nell! Thank you, Lesley!

#66: Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 7:18 pm

Huzzah!

Thank you Lesley Very Happy

#67: Author: Nicola, Location: Derbyshire

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 7:35 pm

Ooh no, wibbling about the Easter holidays. Don't get on that bus, Hilda!

Thank you for that story, Lesley. I like Nell and Hilda in it, and the way they support each other and the rest of the staff.

#68: Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 8:03 pm

Great epilogue - clever but scary mention of the good touring holiday to come .... Confused

I liked the way you showed the girls gradually getting back to normal!

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

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 8:38 pm

I think there's something about headteachers - they can never completely stop working!

I'm sure the first part of the holiday in Devon did Hilda a lot of good.

Thanks Lesley

Liz

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

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 9:08 pm

Thank you Lesley. Well Hilda did get a rest, but not quite the rest anyone would have wanted.

#71: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 10:34 pm

Excellent Lesley! There's no chance that the bunny might WANT to change what happens next? I mean having a book published isn't set in stone, is it?

Ok ok I admit it is. Thank you anyways! This was great Very Happy

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

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 10:39 pm

thank you Lesley - that was a beautiful scene with Nell and Hilda there

and norty Nell suggesting that she might tell Matey! I'm sure even Hilda was scared by that threat.

#73: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 10:54 pm

Fantastic as ever, thanks Lesley!

I also noticed Sybil's use of 'can' for 'may' - was that why she wasn't allowed home? Wink

#74: Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire

Posted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 11:25 pm

Thankyou Lesley - that was fab!

#75: Author: Karry,

Posted: Wed Aug 17, 2005 8:04 am

What a lovely lead in to your book Lesley (especially as I have just read it for the third time) Thank you
Smile

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

Posted: Wed Aug 17, 2005 9:14 am

Thank you Lesley. Wonderful. And well done Nell.

#77: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Aug 17, 2005 10:10 am

Thanks Lesley. Very Happy

#78: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Wed Aug 17, 2005 7:59 pm

I've just caught up with the last few episodes, Lesley, and loved the Hilda and Nell repartee.

Thank you.

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

Posted: Thu Aug 18, 2005 12:38 am

Have just found the last of this. Great stuff Lesley! Nell is wicked...loved the lead-up to That Trip!.

#80: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Aug 18, 2005 9:59 am

That was great, Lesley. It's just that we know what happened to her.

#81: Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Fri Aug 19, 2005 4:25 pm

Just caught up on all of this Lesley and it's fabulous - I loved the way that the stress factor kept being taken "up line" from the middles to the heads

My grandfather was in the Friends Ambulance Unit as a concientious objector in WW1. I don't remember him as he died when I was a baby (1963), he'd never been well as a result of the gas at the front

#82: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sat Aug 20, 2005 10:05 pm

Well drawn, Lesley! Especially Nell, and Plato, and the tension, and ....

OK, repeats all the nice comments above, and wibbles about knowing what happens next. It's a sad thing when Gem suggests Exeter as a meeting place, and your response is something like, "Isn't it dangerous for CS groups to travel in that direction?"

#83: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Aug 30, 2005 12:38 pm

I've just read the whole drabble from start to finish. Great story, Lesley. I agree that Mr Denny's WWI experience sounds extremely likely and should certainly be canon.

It must have been a terrible strain for people in charge of children, not knowing what would happen next and having to keep up appearances.

The end was a lovely twist. Razz

Thanks.

#84: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Tue Aug 30, 2005 1:10 pm

I've just caugt up with this and thought it was great. I don't think I will ever be able to think of Plato in any other way now, that was spot on for him.

Thanks Lesley.

#85: Author: calico, Location: Wellington, New Zealand

Posted: Sun Sep 04, 2005 7:39 am

I've just come across this. Its fabulous!
I've often wondered too about the war years. Loved the scenes about how the staff were feeling.
Thanks Lesley.

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

Posted: Sun Sep 04, 2005 9:59 am

Many thanks everyone for your lovely comments. Laughing

For information, I made a HUGE error early in this - don't know if anyone noticed - with reference to Simone - have now rectified this error - anyone that's interested it's the post where she is speaking to Miss Annersley.

Lesley

#87: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sun Sep 04, 2005 7:57 pm

For some reason I failed to catch up on this when I got back from holiday!!! Shocked

Anyway, I have just done so, and it's great - as usual. Thanks Lesley.

The CBB -> Ste Therese's House

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