The CBB :: View topic - Dilemma for the Deputy Head

Dilemma for the Deputy Head

The CBB -> Ste Therese's House

#1601: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 9:28 pm

"Ouch", indeed, Mary!

I never anticipated this, Lesley! bawling

#1602: Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right!

Posted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 9:40 pm

Ouch!! feeling v sorry for Hilda. Wonder if she will consider resigning.

#1603: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 12:03 am

I hope she won't resign... Sad

#1604: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 12:37 am

How can they be so silly? Surely Nell never hesitated to offer conflicting opinions or discuss future policy when she was Deputy. Sad

#1605: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 9:08 am

Kathy_S wrote:

How can they be so silly? Surely Nell never hesitated to offer conflicting opinions or discuss future policy when she was Deputy. Sad

Exactly my point earlier, Kathy, post before last, when I said Nell must have played Devil's Advocate to Hilda often enough, as Hilda is now doing to Nell. Surely Nell can accept that. Is that why she could have bitten her tongue off - because she DOES know that? Crying or Very sad

#1606: Author: Liane, Location: Manchester England

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 9:30 am

Miss Wilson and Miss Annersley!!
Please Lesley let them be ok!
Can we have some more please?

#1607: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 10:23 am

urkle!

Nooooo come on you two you can work it out!

It's now almost a shame they live in the same cottage because it means it's very difficult for them to have the space they need from each other at the moment.

Unless maybe being together will precipitate the solution for this.

Thanks Lesley

Liz

#1608: Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 3:40 pm

Crikey, Lesley - that's one heck of a situation.

Hope they can sort it out... or are we going to end up with yet another Deputy Head to have a Dilemma? Shocked

JackieJ

#1609: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 6:20 pm

Inside the Head’s Study Nancy Wilmot sat at the small oval table; she jumped as Nell Wilson stormed into the room and slammed the door behind her, but said nothing. The Head suddenly seemed to register that she was there, she took a deep breath,

“Nancy, sorry I wasn’t here earlier, now, about your plans,” she walked across and sat beside the Maths Head, “Let’s have a look then.”

For the next half hour Nancy tried valiantly to pass across her ideas on ways the Maths Dept could evolve, however she was well aware that the Head was not really taking very much in, eventually Miss Wilson stood abruptly,

“I’m sorry Nancy, I’m not doing your ideas justice at the moment. Can we re-schedule?”

Nancy also rose, “Of course, Nell, perhaps after the weekend, everyone will have had the chance to rest for a couple of days.”

“Fine,” Nell was not really listening, having turned a troubled face toward the window. Nancy paused before leaving,

“Nell,” she said quietly, “is there anything you’d like to talk about? Anything I can help with?” She swallowed slightly before continuing, “You were there for me, a couple of weeks back, when Kathie was in danger. I’d like to return the favour.”

Nell Wilson spun round quickly, “No, nothing,” she said, her expression stern, she forced herself to relax slightly and gave a slight smile, “Why do you ask?”

Nancy shrugged, “Because I can see that neither you nor Hilda are happy at the moment. Because when I came down to the Admin block the office staff were all silent for fear of upsetting either of you. Because you didn’t say a word to each other, or even look at each other during lunch.”

Nell shook her head, “A silly quarrel, we’ll get over it.”

“Will you?” Nancy sounded sceptical, “It doesn’t seem that way to me. Nell I’ve known both of you a long time. One of the most steadying aspects has been your friendship, the fact that you are always there for each other. Cutting into each other with accusations of disloyalty, that’s not like you.”

Nell looked across sharply, aware that Nancy must have heard her last conversation with Hilda.

Nancy nodded, “the door was slightly ajar, I could hear. Nell I’m sure Hilda just made a genuine mistake, forgot that she had resigned as Head, after all, she was Head a long time.”

“Perhaps,” Nell admitted, “but there have been other incidents.”

“Enough to wipe out your friendship?

Nell said nothing, stared down at the surface of her desk.

“Fine,” Nancy looked disappointed but turned to go, then she stopped, as though remembering something, “oh, but there’s just one thing, if you can help me out?”

The Head looked somewhat impatient but then forced herself to take a deep breath, relax, “Of course, Nancy, what can I do for you?”

Nancy took a seat opposite the desk, Nell Wilson sat in the Head’s chair, the Maths Head looked across, “It involves two of the girls in the Fourth, the Lower Fourth.”

“Oh yes?”

“They’ve been friends, close friends, for years, almost since they started at the School, but this term something’s happened. Now I know we don’t interfere in the girls’ friendships, but I just wanted advice as to whether there was anything I could do to help them.”

“Lower Fourth you say? That’s what, age 13,” Nell shrugged, “They’re starting to hit puberty about then, they could just be growing apart.”

Nancy shook her head, “Not these two, and anyway, the trouble has only happened because of the position of Form Prefect.”

“Form Prefect?” Nell was puzzled.

“Yes, see one of the girls, call her Mary, has always been Form Prefect in all the forms as they’ve gone through the School, her friend, Margaret, has always been her Deputy. But this term the positions have been reversed. Now for any mature woman, you can see that it shouldn’t matter, the pair are still friends after all, but it does seem to matter.” Nancy paused, hoping Nell was getting this, “Neither of them seem to have the maturity to cope with it, I mean, what could be stupider than falling out over this?” Nancy sighed, “Perhaps the normal policy is right, Nell, don’t interfere in friendships. But it seems such a tragedy if two people who obviously love each other couldn’t work this out.”

There was silence when Nancy finished speaking, the Head staring down at the desk, when she finally moved Nancy could see a very slight smile about her lips, she took a deep breath, “I must say I’m impressed Miss Wilmot,” she said neutrally, “there are very few people that would have the audacity to call both the Headmistress and Deputy Head immature and stupid.”

Did I do that, Miss Wilson?” Nancy projected an innocent look, “I was just asking for advice.”

“Yes, of course,” Nell agreed, “Well, my advice is, allow them to sort things out themselves, alright?”

“So long as you, I mean they, do that,” Nancy said quickly, “I mean, just leaving things to fester, or making accusations without the proof to back it up, that won’t help, will it.”

“Goodbye Miss Wilmot.”

“Er, right, yes, goodbye Miss Wilson.” Nancy moved quickly to the door, just as she was closing it behind her she heard the Head speak again,

“Thank you, Nancy.”

Last edited by Lesley on Sat Jun 25, 2005 7:34 pm; edited 1 time in total

#1610: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 7:23 pm

Good for Nancy! And she was spot on with her assessment!

#1611: Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 7:45 pm

Go Nancy!

#1612: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 8:16 pm

That was very brave of Nancy, but I am glad that she took the opportunity.

#1613: Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right!

Posted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 11:14 pm

Eeek the atmosphere must be awful for the rest of the staff - glad that Nancy is trying to do something about it.

Thanks Lesley - this is great as ever

#1614: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 4:27 am

Good job, Nancy! (Hope it works.)

#1615: Author: calico, Location: Wellington, New Zealand

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 7:00 am

Thank you Lesley.
I have caught up at long last and this is fabulous!!!!!!
Hope Hilda and Nell sort things out soon.

#1616: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 7:35 am

Please, Nell, go and sort it out. Get down off your high horse and listen to Nancy. Crying or Very sad

#1617: Author: Yvette, Location: Brisbane, Australia

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 8:07 am

Terrific Lesley, again.

But those two fighting like a couple of ten year olds?? Shocked

Good for Nancy having the gall to step in!

#1618: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 10:27 am

Yay for Nancy!

Well done!

Thanks Lesley

Liz

#1619: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 12:03 pm

It was perhaps fifteen minutes later that there was a subdued knock on the Deputy Head’s Study door. On hearing the words, ‘come in!’ the door opened and Nell Wilson stood framed in the doorway, the two looked at each other in silence for some seconds, then Nell spoke,

“Didn’t think you’d answer if I knocked on the connecting door,” she began, Hilda didn’t reply. Nell swallowed slightly, “May I come in, Hilda?”

“You are Headmistress, Nell,” Hilda Annersley’s voice was icy, “you do not require my permission.”

Nell winced, “OK, I deserved that, now please, may I come in? It’s important.”

Hilda nodded and waved her friend to the small table, they both sat down.

“Before you say anything, Nell,” Hilda said quickly, “I should like to give you this,” she handed across a sealed envelope.

Nell took the envelope, opened it, read the short missive inside. She shook her head, “I can’t accept this, Hilda,” she said flatly.

“I have another copy that will be sent to Madge,” the Deputy Head said, her voice expressionless, “and I do not believe that you can refuse a letter of resignation.”

“I don’t want you to resign, Hilda,” Nell said firmly.

“Well I am obviously not performing well as your Deputy, Nell,” Hilda replied equally firmly, “For both your and the School’s sake, it would be better if I resigned, allowed Ruth to be your Deputy. Once the situation at Monash is resolved I can re-think my position.”

The Head sighed, reaching across she grasped hold of one of Hilda’s hands, “Please Hilda, before you make that decision, hear me out. I’ve just had Nancy practically accuse me, well both of us actually, of being immature and stupid. She also said I shouldn’t accuse someone without proof. So I looked to see if I had proof; and to begin with, I thought I had. I read the minutes of this morning’s Staff Meeting, Rosalie had emailed them to me for approval. Do you know what I found?”

Hilda shook her head.

“No less than five occasions when you put forward the opposing viewpoint, said something totally in conflict with all the discussion that had gone before. I felt almost vindicated, here was the proof!” Nell held up a hand to stop Hilda replying. “I even checked in other meetings, Monday’s SMT meeting, the Department Heads’ meeting - you did the same there. Then I thought to look in the archives, check meetings when you were Head. Guess what I found?”

Hilda remained silent and Nell answered the question herself, “In them I did exactly the same, gave you an opposing viewpoint to consider. Sometimes you would change your mind, sometimes not, but you always accepted the different view, considered it. That’s what you’ve been doing, isn’t it?”

Hilda smiled slightly, “Yes Nell,” she said, “I always found it useful to have the opposing view voiced.”

“You’ve been doing your job,” Nell continued, “even in the face of real opposition from me. I’ve given you no support whatsoever.” This last was said with real feeling.

“Don’t be so hard on yourself, Nell,” Hilda said quietly, “more than anyone, I know the stresses the post can place upon you.”

“Stresses?” Nell sounded almost derisory.

Hilda nodded, “Yes Nell, let me make an educated guess as to the stresses and decisions facing you at the moment,” Hilda started to list items, counting them off on her fingers as she did so…

“Report to the Board re swimming pool
Report to Education Board re curriculum changes
Security changes need to be approved and ratified
Mollie’s request for more finance staff approved
Discuss need for further Boarding Houses
Arrange consultation exercise re next School year and current Preparation classes - should RCS go co-ed?
Approval budgets for Science, English and Maths Depts
Ask for reports from Languages, Library, Kindergarten and IT
Post for Chemistry mistress - I’d estimate you have nineteen applicants after Rachael has winnowed them, as the Chemistry expert you have to check them yourself.
Decide if change in make up of SMT justified
Prepare investigation ahead of Appeal by Lindsay Hopkins
Review scholarship arrangements with Microsoft - reports on girls
Review Special Sixth - is expansion justified?”

Hilda stopped and looked across at her partner, “Stop me if I’m wrong here, Nell,” she said softly.

Nell thought for a moment, “It’s twenty-one applicants, not nineteen,” she said.

“My mistake,” Hilda said, bowing her head. “The point is though, Nell, it’s not surprising that you feel under pressure. And having a Deputy who still feels that she is Head only increases that pressure, it would be far better for you if I resign, allow you to be Head without continually looking over your shoulder.”

“I want to look over my shoulder,” Nell said quietly, “and I don’t want anyone else as my Deputy. Hilda, I’m sorry for how I’ve been acting and I’m especially sorry for what I said earlier, of course I don’t think you’d withhold information from me.”

Hilda nodded in acknowledgement, “And I’m sorry, Nell, for forgetting that I should consult you, for forgetting that I am no longer Head,” she held up a hand to stifle Nell’s objections, “I do, Nell, and I can see just how much that can undermine you. I will try not to let it happen again.”

“You mean I can dispose of this?” Nell held up the letter of resignation

Hilda nodded, then watched as the Head solemnly ripped the letter to shreds, walked across to place the bits in the bin. The pair smiled somewhat tentatively at each other.

“I can’t do this without you, Hilda,” Nell said softly, “You’re a tough act to follow and in comparison I feel that I’ve no business being in this post…”

Anything further that Nell had to say was cut off. Hilda walked across to stand opposite her friend, she placed both hands on her friend’s shoulders, “Never say that, Nell,” she said quietly but with real emphasis, “your management style may be different to mine, but it is no less effective. You are an excellent Headmistress.”

There was silence for a time, then Nell nodded slightly, “Thank you Hilda.” She smiled slightly, “I suppose we had both better get back to work,” she said.

Hilda nodded, “Yes, may I make a suggestion?”

“Of course.”

“Friday afternoon, we allow the office staff the afternoon off? After what they’ve had to endure from both of us…”

Nell nodded, “Yes, I think they deserve a treat. Good idea.” She reached forward, hugged her friend, “see you later,” she said, then turned and walked back through the connecting door.

#1620: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 12:38 pm

Thank goodness for Nancy! Great to see them working it out, Lesley. The way that you've developed these characters means that it's difficult for them to reverse their positions and accept the the differing jobs immediately.

#1621: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 5:28 pm

Phew!

Thanks Lesley Very Happy

#1622: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 6:19 pm

Thank you Lesley.

Phew! Good for Nancy. Isn't she coming across well here Razz

It must be incredibly difficult for both of them.

(((the pair of them)))

*sighs with relief*

*THEN realises that was probably not the dillema*

*Goes back to wibbling in the corner*

#1623: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 6:31 pm

Good for Nancy !
RCS Co-ed?
Whats the next cliff going to be ?
*reading very slowly*
Thanks Lesley

#1624: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 7:32 pm

I am *very* relieved that that was resolved so quickly. Thank you Lesley. I never doubted that it would be, mind you!

#1625: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 7:38 pm

Situation defused...So just what is brewing for the dilemma and the big finale???

*wondering if co-ed rcs is going to be the next story*

#1626: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 8:06 pm

Thanks Lesley

I'm so glad they were able to work that through.

Liz

#1627: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 8:23 pm

Whew! Glad to see things smoothed over....

(I'm still shocked that it could have happened in the first place.)

#1628: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 8:43 pm

Agreeing with all the above comments, Lesley.

Well done, Nell. I'm proud of you. Wink

#1629: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 8:50 pm

Kathy_S wrote:

(I'm still shocked that it could have happened in the first place.)

But it did, in the circumstances as described, seem feasible, didn't it?

#1630: Author: Kim, Location: Tipperary, Ireland

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 8:59 pm

Lesley wrote:

Kathy_S wrote:

(I'm still shocked that it could have happened in the first place.)

But it did, in the circumstances as described, seem feasible, didn't it?

Absolutely spot on. Glad Nell was able to resolve things but now what?

#1631: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 9:09 pm

Oh yes! After all no one is perfect, and the best of friendships are going to have their sticky periods. It would have been less believable if there had been no problems!

#1632: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 9:13 pm

Lesley wrote:

Kathy_S wrote:

(I'm still shocked that it could have happened in the first place.)

But it did, in the circumstances as described, seem feasible, didn't it?

All too feasible. Don't worry, Lesley. It's not that unusual a reaction for me. I think I know someone well, faults and all -- and then am shocked when something happens to smash my tidy pigeonholes or residual pedestals.

#1633: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 10:34 pm

Amazed... I seem to have come in at a point where the major cliffs have been resolved... Hmmmm.

Just spent the whole weekend reading through the background to this etc lesly. You have had me laughing and enthralled at different points throughout it.

Ok so after having done little more than read this, sleep and eat (oh and have my Dad "bully" me about going to bed - what else is new?!?) I guess I'll take a bit of a break in the morning and then think about writing a bit more of "Rachel".

Thanks Lesley Very Happy

#1634: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 12:14 am

Thank goodness - I wnated simultaneously to hug them and bang their heads together! And cheers for Nancy; that must have taken so much courage.

#1635: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 3:49 am

Out tonight - more of this tomorrow.

#1636: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 8:43 am

Wow - Nancy was superb there - very brave indeed!!
*g* And about as subtle as a sledgehammer (no doubt Nell secretly approved!)

So glad they've managed to resolve it - as eveyone said, all too believable ...

#1637: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 9:06 am

phew! could feel the nasty atmosphere from here.
Well done Nancy!

thanks lesley

#1638: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 1:00 pm

I thought Nancy was in for it then!!!!

Thank you for resolving that err minor problem, Lesley - now are there any more to come? Just so I can stock up on arnica for my bruises....

#1639: Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 1:03 pm

Well done Nancy!!!!

And good on Nell for being led by her scientific training and looking for Proof Very Happy

#1640: Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under

Posted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 9:46 pm

Whew.

Ten pages and nearly two weeks later.

Still no closer (I believe) to the Real Dilemma. Unless it's how Hilda and Nell deal with this role reversal. Or unless it's Hilda actually being found guilty of cheating somehow.

Thanks Lesley!

#1641: Author: catherine, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne

Posted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 1:08 pm

Thank goodness Hilda and Nell have sorted out their differences! The two of them arguing is awful!

Perhaps being without internet access again after Friday is going to be a good thing! I might miss all the cliffs that are still to come!

#1642: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans/Leicester

Posted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 5:05 pm

Thank goodness for Nancy making Nell face up to what was going on and thank goodness that Hilda and Nell are back to normal.

Thanks Lesley

#1643: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 6:54 pm

The rest of the week was far more peaceful as both women did their best to adjust to the changes. It was noticed by all the Staff that the Head visibly restrained herself from making any adverse comments during meetings, when Miss Annersley put forward an opinion or view that was totally the opposite of all that had previously discussed. Indeed she religiously thanked the Deputy Head and encouraged further discussion. On occasion she was surprised to find that she ended up agreeing with the opposing view.

In return Miss Annersley was careful always to pass on to the Head any concerns or problems requiring a command decision, even when people would single her out or write or email her personally, unaware of the changes. The pair began to enjoy themselves at work once more and this was noticed by the entire School.

The news that all the Admin Staff were to have Friday afternoon off was greeted with joy, in fact Rosalie Dene, the Office Manager, reported that productivity was up 20%, more than making up for the lost time. Friday afternoon, at the end of lessons, found the Head and Deputy Head, both in Miss Wilson’s Study, the only ones of the Admin Block still there. They had been joined by the Senior Mistress, Ruth Derwent. Ruth was covering for the weekend and was receiving a handover, particularly important as neither the head or Deputy Head would be on site - they were, with Cherry and Robbie Elliott, going away for the weekend.

“Now are you sure you’re happy with everything, Ruth? Remember Hilda and I will be away.”

Ruth nodded, “Yes, I can’t foresee any problems, and even if I did it’s not enough to stop you going. I think you both deserve the break. Are you doing anything special?”

“We’ve got a few ideas,” Hilda said, smiling, “we want to take Robbie to see the Penguin Parade, otherwise we just thought we’d explore a little of the coastline, stop off in motels along the way. Nell and I will share the driving so it wont be too onerous. Oh and we planned to go across and see Miss Shaw, that is if you think she’s well enough?”

Ruth nodded, “Definitely, I was over there last night, she’s doing well, and I know she’d like to see you. Will Cherry be going too?”

“Yes, and Robbie, he said he liked being a hopital visitor - his word, not mine!”

“Geri will be pleased,” Ruth smiled, “I know she feels some sort of responsibility for Cherry even now.”

Nell Wilson leant forward, “I imagine she feels that for all the inmates, to a certain extent.” She looked across at Hilda while saying this, a small smile on her lips.

Ruth stood, “Well I’ll not keep you,” she said, she paused, “Oh there is one thing,”

Both the other women looked over at her expectantly.

“Please tell me exactly what Nancy Wilmot said to you on Wednesday afternoon. She’s being really annoying, won’t even tell Kathie.”

“What makes you think that she said anything?” Nell Wilson smiled slightly.

“Oh come on,” Ruth was completely at ease with the two women, “ I had to nip down to speak to Rosalie that afternoon, I never thought that anything fazed her, but she was definitely feeling stressed. And you could cut the atmosphere with a knife! Then Nancy came down here to discuss the Maths Department budget and suddenly the pair of you are no longer…well…” she stuttered to a halt, suddenly aware that, however at ease she felt, saying that the Head and Deputy Head had been acting like five year olds, was not a good career move!

Hilda looked across at Nell meaningfully, Nell grinned, “Well let’s just say that had she not already got a medal for bravery, I might have had to award her one!”

With that Ruth had to be satisfied; wishing the two women a lovely weekend, she took her leave.

Last edited by Lesley on Tue Jun 28, 2005 7:41 pm; edited 1 time in total

#1644: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 7:36 pm

Lesley wrote:

"Then Nancy came down here to discuss the Maths Department budget and suddenly the pair of you are no longer…well…” she stuttered to a halt, suddenly aware that, however at ease she felt, saying that the Head and Deputy Head had been acting like five year olds, was not a good career move!”

Woderful!

Poor Ruth - almost lost it there. Even if she is at ease with them there are some places you don't go. Rolling Eyes

So glad Hilda and Nell both managed to restrain themselves in meetings.

Now what cliffs have you got in store for us, Lesley? Embarassed

#1645: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 8:01 pm

How did I get so behind with this?!!

Thanks Lesley. Good for Nancy and her straighttalking!

I'm glad they sorted it all out - it seemed so wrong with them at odds like that.

Now, Ihope they have a good holida, though I guess a holiday means limitless potential for more cliffs!

#1646: Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada

Posted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 8:43 pm

Lesley wrote:

then Mary said:

Quote:

Wonderful! Shocked

Poor Ruth - almost lost it there. Even if she is at ease with them there are some places you don't go. Rolling Eyes

So glad Hilda and Nell both managed to restrain themselves in meetings.

Now what cliffs have you got in store for us, Lesley? Embarassed

Mary, you've said it all. But I'm glad that Nell and Hilda have sorted themselves out - Nancy certainly deserves a medal for showing them the error of their ways!

More, please, Lesley - but please avoid the cliffs if you can.

#1647: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 8:53 pm

well I hope they have a nice, peaceful, restful holiday....

and that the school is still in one piece when they get back

#1648: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 9:44 pm

I echo Frances with all my heart Confused

Thank you Lesley. I liked the comment about Ruth realising it was not a good career move Razz

#1649: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 10:24 pm

Less than fifteen minutes later there was a knock on the door, it opened to show Cherry and Robbie standing there,

“We’re not too early are we?” Cherry said a little anxiously.

Nell Wilson got up and walked across to hug Cherry, “Not at all, we’ve been waiting for you,” she smiled.

Robbie ran inside and scrambled onto Hilda’s lap,

“Look Grandma, look what I got,” he flourished a hand toward her, on the back of his hand was a star.

“A gold star? Well done Robbie, how did you get that?” Hilda kissed the little boy while asking.

“Miz Phillips gave me it, for helping her tidy up,” Robbie said proudly, “Gemma and Mark and me got stars, but not Anton ‘cos he was naughty.”

Hilda smiled, “Well I’m very proud of you,” she said, “I’ll buy you a special ice cream tomorrow as a reward.”

Robbie beamed.

“What do you say, Robbie?” Cherry called across.

“Thank you Grandma.”

“Good boy.”

Robbie slid off of Hilda’s lap and ran over to show Nell his star. Hilda looked over at Cherry,

“How’s things? We’ve not seen very much of you this week.”

Cherry moved across to hug Hilda, “I thought, after last weekend, it would be better to stay away for a while,” she said quickly.

“There hasn’t been any more trouble, has there?” Hilda looked searchingly into Cherry’s eyes.

“No, everything’s been fine,” she said, “all the domestic staff have been great. Even those two or three that are friendly with Lindsay, they say she got what she deserved.”

“Good,” Hilda said with a sigh, “because I don’t ever want to have to see you due to a disciplinary matter again.”

Cherry tightened her hug, “You won’t,” she said confidently, “now what….” she got no further as a cry suddenly rent the air.

“Mummy! Grandma Hilda! Help me, help!”

The two named looked across quickly, minutes earlier Nell had been standing with Robbie in her arms, cuddling him. Now, she had sat him on the top of a tall filing cabinet and was holding him there despite his struggles. She saw the other two looking at her,

“He’s staying there for the weekend,” she said fiercely, a twinkle in her eye, “he said his drawing was better than mine, so we’re not going away this weekend.”

“Help me!” Robbie called, giggling so much he could barely speak. “Mummy, Grandma, Grandma Nell is being naughty!”

Hilda and Cherry looked at each other, “He’s quite right, you know, Hilda,” Cherry said solemnly, “Nell is being naughty.”

Nell looked across, “And you two can stop that right now,” she said fiercely, holding up her free hand, “as Headmistress I order you not to interfere!”

The two exchanged glances once more, “Cherry,” Hilda began, “I feel I must warn you that I am about to embark on a very serious action, namely that of physically assaulting the Headmistress, this is in direct contravention of the School protocols. I will understand if you do not wish to join me.”

Cherry considered, “No that’s alright, Hilda,” she said after some seconds, “I think I might have to take part too!”

The pair grinned then turned toward the Head. Almost as though they had rehearsed it they attacked on two flanks. Hilda, with the slightly longer reach, moved toward Robbie, as Cherry distracted Nell she managed to pluck him down from the top of the cabinet. (Both Nell and Hilda being exceptionally careful as to his safety here.) Then all three turned their attentions on Nell Wilson.

Now Nell was a strong woman, stronger than either Hilda or Cherry, but she was not stronger than both of them together. And a lively three year old added to the mixture just made Nell’s defeat more certain. It took barely a minute before Nell was being forced into her chair, held there by the other two women holding her arms. Then, with her helpless to resist, Robbie was encouraged to climb up on her lap and start planting huge, wet kisses all over her face!

“Will you stop that!" Nell spluttered, as best she could through her giggles.

“Only when you say we are going away for the weekend.” This was Hilda at her stateliest.

“Of course we’re going away,” Nell said fiercely, then spoilt the look by grinning, “as if I meant that anyway!”

Robbie wrapped his arms around her neck, “Fank you Grandma!”

#1650: Author: Kim, Location: Tipperary, Ireland

Posted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 10:28 pm

Lesley - lovely to see the relaxed atmosphere in your last couple of posts. Just wondering what you have up your sleeve for Ruth's weekend on duty - or am I being paranoid?

#1651: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 10:47 pm

Lovely, thanks Lesley! Very Happy

I do love Robbie and his rapport with his 'Grandma's'

#1652: Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada

Posted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 11:03 pm

That was lovely, Lesley - I'm sitting giggling here!!

#1653: Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 12:22 am

That was lovely Lesley - bet that was much needed by both Hilda and Nell

Now I've caught up I can finally go to bed with a (relatively) easy mind - although I'm sure that there are plenty of things about to happen to both the school and the weekend trip

Maybe it would be more of a cliff for nothing worrying to happen at all and the only dilema to be what flavour ice cream Robbie is going to have Wink

#1654: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 1:05 am

I enjoyed that Lesley...the family are happy again. Now, I keep turning around wondering what is sneaking up unexpectedly. Not that cliffs sneak, you understand, but I can't help being nervous. Very Happy

#1655: Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 4:02 am

I like the image of Lesley's cliffs sneaking up on you (mental picture of tall cliff looming over me with one outcrop of rock looking remarkably like a pointing finger just bumping me on the shoulder).

Maybe we should be worrying about all those little cliffs that seem to have faded away?

#1656: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 8:31 am

Thank you Lesley! I've finaaly caught up and am very glad to see that things are back to normal. Well done Nancy! I love Robbie's relationship with his grandma's.

#1657: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 9:05 am

i never trust Lesley's happy scenes - when things seem to be going well, something always happens to intervene...

but thanks anyway for the cheery posts! Very Happy

#1658: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 9:40 am

Just read the last few posts together Lesley - what can I say but "Thanks" for the lovely family scenes now that everyone is happy again. *looks down to make sure that all cliff safety precautions are on so that when the next cliff does loom up ahead we are well prepared to deal with it!* *laughs*

#1659: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 12:43 pm

Thanks Lesley

Glad to see things are back to normal with Nell & Hilda's relationship, if not with their roles (yet).

I hope they have a lovely weekend away with Cherry and Robbie and nothing untoward happens at the school in their absence.

Well a girl can hope, can't she!

Liz

#1660: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 1:03 pm

*inches forward on hands and knees*

well I don't want to go plummeting over the cliff that almost invariably follows such a cute, happy family scene!

awwwww Lesley that made me feel all mushy inside.

#1661: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 1:09 pm

Thank goodness that that cliff isover and done with. Now what's going to happen on the wweekend away, I wonder.

#1662: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 5:24 pm

The four left the RCS less than an hour later; Hilda and Nell had only decided to take the weekend away from the School on the Wednesday evening. After all the trauma that had occurred during that day, they had sat up late into the night discussing what they could do to ensure that their friendship remained intact. Having a short break, just the four of them, with no contact with the School, seemed a good start. When Cherry was contacted she was delighted, she had also been worrying about maintaining their family. Robbie, of course, was very excited, and Thursday evening had been spent searching out things that they could do for the weekend.

For Friday night they had decided to stay in Melbourne, they booked into a hotel that catered for families; one of the three restaurants had proper children’s menus, as well as entertainment for under-fives. Robbie insisted that both his Grandmas joined him in the ball pond and Cherry took a number of photographs! They retired back to their suite soon afterwards. Catering for families, the hotel had a number of two bedroomed suites, also including sitting room and bathroom, so Robbie was able to go to bed reasonably early without forcing Cherry to do the same.

The following morning, after a leisurely breakfast, they traveled to the hospital where Miss Shaw was a patient. It had been some time since they had last visited, in fact it was two weeks, the last time being when the Senior Officer had been rushed back to Theatres for emergency surgery, although Ruth Derwent had kept them informed as to her condition. When they arrived they were pointed toward a single room in the same ward as before. Miss Shaw was sitting in a chair beside her bed; unlike when they had last visited, she did not seem to have any drips or drains. As they arrived she turned and smiled,

“I wondered if you would be in today,” she said, and the others saw that the severe bruising on her face had faded considerably, “when Ruth was here on Thursday she said she thought you might visit.”

Hilda Annersley stepped forward, her hand outstretched, “My apologies for not visiting last weekend,” she said smiling, “We had some issues at the School.” Hilda turned to indicate Nell, “I don’t know if you remember my partner, Nell Wilson? You met once, last September?”

The Prison Officer nodded, reaching out a hand to shake Nell’s, “I remember,” she said, her eyes appraising the woman standing beside Hilda, “At the time she was your Deputy,” she continued, “though if the papers are correct, at the moment you are hers?”

Hilda nodded slightly, “Yes, at least until the investigation at Monash University is complete.”

Geraldine Shaw looked into the almost impassive face of the woman standing in front of her, she nodded in understanding, “Even when I was booking you into prison on a charge of murder, I didn’t believe that you were capable of any criminal act, Miss Annersley,” she said very quietly. “Nothing has changed my mind.”

Hilda smiled slightly, “Thank you,” she said, “But please, my name is Hilda.”

“And I’m Nell,” Nell put in quickly.

Miss Shaw smiled, “I’m Geri, and I see I have some more visitors?” As she was speaking the door had opened once more and Cherry and Robbie had appeared – they had been delayed because Robbie needed the toilet.

Cherry smiled, “Hello Miss Shaw, how are you?”

“I’m much improved on the last time you saw me, Miss Elliott,” the prison officer continued to address Cherry formally and Hilda Annersley suddenly realised why, her policy must be to wait until the other person suggests using first names. Hilda resolved to speak to Cherry about it soon.

“Hello Miz Shaw, is you better now?” Robbie obviously remembered his last visit.

“Much better Robbie, thank you.”

#1663: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 8:55 pm

I can't help feeling that this is the calm before the storm. Where would I get that from I wonder? Twisted Evil

#1664: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 9:22 pm

Lovely family moments, Lesley. It must mean so much to these 3 (and Robbie) to have 'family'.

Thank you.

#1665: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 11:27 pm

Thank you Lesley

Lovely to see them getting away and being a family

And I'm glad Geri is recovering well

Liz

#1666: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 12:57 am

They are lovely as a family. But I too have calm-before-storm feeling...I wonder why?! Very Happy

#1667: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 4:59 am

Cath V-P wrote:

They are lovely as a family. But I too have calm-before-storm feeling...I wonder why?! Very Happy

Couldn't be the author's track record, could it? Laughing

Very satisfying posts, though.

#1668: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 8:54 am

Kathy_S wrote:

Very satisfying posts, though.

They're lovely posts, thank you Lesley Kiss

#1669: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 9:34 am

Very lovely posts. Though I will also admit to something of a calm-before-the-storm feeling! *g*

Thank you, Lesley.

#1670: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 10:10 am

Lovely, but how I agree with the others about the calm before the storm.

Are we putting ideas in your head that weren't really there, Lesley? Rolling Eyes

Maybe this WAS going to be just a peaceful interlude. Shocked

#1671: Author: Rachel,

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 10:45 am

I had to catch up from page 72 yesterday - amazing writing as ever Lesley!

Looking forward to having a set of 63+ RCS Stories gracing my shelves at some point....

#1672: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 10:47 am

Lovely - thanks Lesley

#1673: Author: Katarzyna, Location: North West England

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 12:29 pm

Thank you Lesley! Kiss

sreiously considering sitting here with my eyes shut and hands over my ears singing tra-la-la loudly in an effort to prove that i am not wibbling over whatever calamity is about to befall them

Seem to remember some sort of slimy polititian lurking in the background!

Oh well, shall start preparing for next cliff top party - we haven't seen any really good diving displays for a couple of pages! Wink

#1674: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 3:55 pm

Joins the group who are hovering suspiciously.

#1675: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 8:01 pm

hides behind the group walking slowly up the hill,eyes wide open looking for cliffs.
thanks Lesley

#1676: Author: Caroline OSullivan, Location: Reading, Berkshire, UK

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 5:51 am

Thanks Lesley. Robbie is gorgeous. Hope they all have a lovely weekend away together.

#1677: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 7:48 pm

Hi everyone, apologies for yesterday - couldn't find any inspiration, better now!

Robbie smiled, then, letting go of Cherry’s hand, he walked over to the seated woman, “Miz Shaw? Why is you still wearing ‘jamas? You must have got up a long time ago, haven’t you had your baff yet?”

Hilda and Nell both suddenly found something intensely interesting over the other side of the room, while Cherry exploded, “Robbie!” in a very embarrassed voice.

Geri Shaw smiled, then starting laughing, then, as the laughing obviously pulled on her suture line, alternating between laughing and groans at how the laughs were making her feel.

“I’m really sorry…” Cherry began.

Geri held up her hand, “Please, don’t apologise, he is wonderful!” She looked at Robbie again, he was looking at Cherry with a worried expression on his face, obviously thinking he was in trouble. “Robbie, I’m wearing a night shirt because I’m in hospital, when in hospital you must stay in bed a lot, because you are not very well. I was badly hurt and it takes time to get better.”

Robbie nodded, his little face serious, “Does it hurt now?” he asked.

Miss Shaw took a couple of shallow breaths, then nodded, "Yes Robbie, it hurts here," she pointed to the ribs on her left side, "and especially here," and to her abdomen.

Robbie moved closer and patted Geri’s stomach, she watched with a smile, shaking her head when Cherry would have pulled him away. The little boy was very gentle, “Why your tummy hurt?”

Geri looked across at Cherry with a question in her eyes, Cherry nodded, “I had to have an operation,” Geri Shaw said plainly, “because someone hit me in the tummy.”

“Mustn’t hit people,” Robbie replied, “it’s naughty. Grandma Hilda told me, long time ago.”

“I know, but the person that hit me was very naughty,” Miss Shaw replied simply.

“They get sent to bed.” Robbie said confidently.

Geri Shaw smiled, “Yes, Robbie, I believe she did.”

#1678: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 7:55 pm

Aww!
Robbie is sweet
Thanks Lesley

#1679: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 7:57 pm

Oh I so approve of Robbie. I am so glad you intriduced his character Lesley.

#1680: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 7:57 pm

Robbie is a real darling!

#1681: Author: Rachel,

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 9:06 pm

Huzzah for Lesley.

Moooooooooooooooooore soooooooooooooooooon pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease!

#1682: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 10:19 pm

Lovel, Lesley - and so true to life! Razz

#1683: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 12:59 am

Lovely Lesley - thank you Very Happy

Liz

#1684: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 8:08 am

What a tender little scene, Lesley, and Robbie is so cute. Loved his line about sending the naughty ones to bed. Laughing

#1685: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 8:46 am

Wonderful as ever, thank you Lesley. Robbie is soo cute and I love the way Geri responds to him.

#1686: Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 11:28 am

yay! I skipped happily over all the nasty cliffs and horrible fight scenes to catch up on a perfectly luffly bit. Very Happy

Wonderful Lesley! I got really scared that Hilda and Nell weren't going to make it up for aaaages and that would be Wrong.
I want a Robbie. He's such a darling.

#1687: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 11:30 am

The four remained with the prison officer for another hour or so until she began to show signs of tiring. When they left one of the nurses was helping her back into bed for a rest. She had smiled slightly and said she was hoping to be discharged soon, would be staying with Pat Francis. She promised to send details to the School. A short time later saw the four on the road; they had discussed what they wanted to do for the weekend and had finally decided to travel to Phillips Island. While there they would be able to see all the attractions, including the famous Penguin Parade. They had booked an apartment for the night and intended to take a leisurely day and a half exploring. On the way there, as it was close to lunch time, they stopped at a roadside motel and restaurant for a meal. While there Hilda fulfilled the promise she had made to Robbie the day before, for his dessert he had an enormous ice cream sundae, so large that it needed two waitresses to transport it over to the table! Robbie’s eyes practically popped out of his head when he saw this and he lost not time in devouring it.

Later it was agreed by all four that it would have been more sensible to have delayed letting him have the ice cream until after the two hour long car journey, still at least Cherry had noticed what was happening and managed to get him out of the car in time. He had his tears soothed away and then fell asleep in the back, cuddled in his somewhat repentant Grandma Hilda’s arms. By the time they reached Phillips Island though he had recovered and was eager to see all the animals. First they went to the Churchill Island Heritage Farm and Robbie had the chance to pet some of the smaller animals, then they had a look around the Koala sanctuary.

However it was the penguins that the little boy really wanted to see and when the time for the parade came that evening he sat, very excited, watching for the first of the Little Penguins to leave the ocean and return to their burrows. To begin with it was very difficult to see, in the dusk, but suddenly one or two birds started the journey and then there were dozens, then more! Robbie was standing upon the bench, trying to see more, then, one of the rangers came along and took him down nearer the front where he had an uninterrupted view.

Afterwards, walking slowly back to their two-bedroomed apartment, Robbie’s excited voice didn’t stop, and when, half way back, he was shown some of the burrows by the same ranger, and was able to see the penguins sitting in there, he was fascinated, asking Cherry if they could come back and see them again. The four returned to their apartment to get changed, then went into one of the restaurants for their evening meal. Although later than his normal bedtime Robbie was very good, eating all his meal and even having a very tiny sip of the wine that Hilda, Nell and Cherry were drinking. On the way back though he fell asleep on Cherry’s shoulder and she put him to bed without even waking him.

The other three spent a very restful evening sat in the spacious living room, chatting. No one was late to bed. The following morning saw first Nell, then Hilda up fairly early. The apartment had all the supplies needed for breakfast so they busied themselves getting everything ready. They had just finished when Cherry appeared, smiling hello to the two older women she then quickly looked round the living room and kitchen. She then walked outside onto the veranda before coming in with a frown,

“Where’s Robbie?” she asked.

#1688: Author: Rosie, Location: Huntingdonshire/Bangor

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 11:46 am

#1689: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 11:46 am

Aaaaaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrrrrrgggggggggggggggghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!

*splat*

Thanks Lesley

*guesing he's gone to see the penguins again*

keep him safe won't you

*moves along and makes space for the next arrival* hello Rosie!

Liz

#1690: Author: Rosie, Location: Huntingdonshire/Bangor

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 11:47 am

LizB wrote:

hello Rosie!

Beat you. Presumably I fell faster?
Thank you btw Lesley!

#1691: Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 11:55 am

Uh oh.

#1692: Author: Rachel,

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 12:50 pm

Lesley, the set up in that post was excellent - the way you had such a nice scene and threw the cliff in right at the very last minute before anybody had a chance to even think about whether you were setting up for one. I love the sound of splatting bodies at the weekend.

Lesley (Lime) Green, Unsurpassed Writer of Cliffs

#1693: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 3:27 pm

Ho Hum. Thanks for the greater majority of that last post Lesley, it was lovely to see the family scenes there once again. Forgive me if I dont stop to chat though - I seem to be falling through thin air.

WHERE IS ROBBIE Question

Hopefully he will be nice and safe with the Ranger, or even still at the hotel.

#1694: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 4:20 pm

Oooh I have just caught up after being away, and hurrah a cliff!! There had to be a cliff, this time last year I went away and came back to vigils for Nell!! (oh gosh where has a year gone!!) Shocked

Thanks Lesley

#1695: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 4:45 pm

Both Hilda and Nell looked across sharply, “We thought he was still in bed,” Hilda said quickly.

Cherry nodded, “So did I until I got up, then saw that the mound in the bed was just the quilt bunched up, he’s not there, and his shoes are gone.”

There was a split seconds silence, then, “Cherry, have another quick look round the apartment,” Hilda said urgently, “Nell, check the doors and windows, if he’s not inside he must have got out somehow.”

The other two rushed to obey, Hilda herself contacted the enquiries desk for all the apartments, no one had seen a little boy but they promised to keep an eye out for him. They also suggested she contact the Rangers and let them know, this she did. As she had finished on the phone Cherry and Nell appeared,

“He’s definitely not in the apartment,” Cherry said, “I’ve looked everywhere,” she was looking pale herself, “why didn’t I wake up?”

Hilda hugged her, “Nell?”

“The kitchen door is unlocked, Hilda,” she said grimly, “None of us used it so didn’t think to check it. It opens very easily, even a three year old could open it. I checked outside, it lead straight to the pool we share with the apartment opposite…”

At this Cherry nearly fainted, then pushed herself up, intending to run outside, Nell caught her, “Already checked girl, he’s not there.”

“Then where is he?” Cherry’s face was bright with unshed tears, “I’ve got to find him,” she ran over to the front door, the other two were close behind.

Outside Cherry looked round helplessly, Hilda spoke calmly, “We’ll fan out,” she said, “Cherry, you go that way, Nell that,” she pointed for both of them, “I’ll go this way, take your mobiles so we can…”

There was the sound of a jeep suddenly, it was moving fast. As it got to the apartment it stopped and the ranger from the night before stepped out, “Think I might have something that belongs to you, ladies!” he called. He reached into the jeep and returned holding a crumpled bundle, it was Robbie.

With a gulp Cherry crossed the intervening twenty yards, without a word to the man she snatched the bundle from him. Robbie was wearing his pyjamas, one sleeve of which was badly torn. He had a long scratch down one arm and a bruise on his forehead. He has lost one of his shoes, but the other, although on, was not laced up. He was sobbing, large, noisy sobs, and tears were running down his cheeks. As Cherry grabbed him from the ranger he looked up,

“Mummy!” he wailed, then flung his arms around her neck.

#1696: Author: Jodi, Location: Glasgow most of the time

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 5:30 pm

thanks for resloving that one quickly Lesley!

#1697: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 5:34 pm

Phew he was with the ranger. Thank goodness for that. Oh and Thanks Lesley

#1698: Author: Rachel,

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 7:35 pm

I'm very disappointed Lesley. I was getting all geared up for a decent cliff top party this evening!

Care to make it three updates for today?

#1699: Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right!

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 8:43 pm

Thanks for the quick resolution - that was a sneaky cliff though!

#1700: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 8:51 pm

Go Lesley Go,
We want some more.
Write Lesley Write,
Let's have more tonight!

Thought it about time we have a proper co-ordinated chant again. Laughing

#1701: Author: Rachel,

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 10:21 pm

Adding a harmony line to the chant.

I'm off to bed (metaphorically speaking since I am in bed typing this) soon and would like another installment before I go.

#1702: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 10:43 pm

I think Rachel and Carolyn are being totally unreasonable, expecting more hanging on by fingernails.

Us poor normal, sensitive fold had palpitations there, despite the fact that I don't seriously think you would kill dear little Robbie only a week before facing a whole gathering Shocked

*Wipes brow*

#1703: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 10:59 pm

patmac wrote:

Us poor normal, sensitive fold had palpitations there, despite the fact that I don't seriously think you would kill dear little Robbie only a week before facing a whole gathering Shocked

Quite right, Pat, I'd wait until just after the Gather...

When Hilda and Nell caught up Cherry was hugging her son tightly, they could hear their conversation…

“Where have you been? You know you’re not supposed to go out on your own, you’re a very naughty boy.” Cherry was so relieved that her fear had turned, like so many parents, to anger.

Robbie tried to talk through his sobs, “I..I..I wanted to see …the pengins, Mummy…”

“Then you should have waited, you know you mustn‘t go off alone.”

“But you…woz all sleep,” Robbie said, between sobs, “I walked and walked to pengins…but I felled over and hurt my head…and the pengins all runned away…And I lost my shoe…and I cried Mummy…I cried but you didn’t come.”

Cherry sat down on a nearby step and cuddled Robbie to her, her own eyes full of tears, she spoke softly, “I didn’t know where you were, Robbie, you frightened me so much, don’t ever run off on your own. You must always tell me where you are going.” She kissed him gently on both cheeks and cuddled him closer still.

Hilda and Nell looked across at the ranger, he was a young man, only in his early twenties, fairly tall and slim, with light brown hair and eyes, he smiled,

“The message to keep an eye out for a little lad came through on my radio just after I’d found him,” he said, “I’d heard him crying over near the burrows and scooped him up, was on my way to the police station when the call came through, so diverted and brought him here.”

“Thank you so much, Mr?” Hilda began.

“Matt, Matt Lawson,” the man grinned, “tell his mum that, next time she brings the lad, I’ll be happy to take him somewhere he can watch the penguins and their chicks. Gotta go now.” He nodded to both women then jumped into his jeep, seconds later it roared into life and sped off.

Some time later Hilda and Nell had managed to get Cherry back into the apartment, she sat on one of the sofas, cuddling Robbie. The little boy was still occasionally sobbing and had his arms tightly around Cherry’s neck, as though afraid she would leave him. Hilda got drinks for both of them, while Nell hunted out a first aid box. They managed to get Robbie to drink a cup of milk and then cleaned up the scratch on his arm. The bruise on his forehead seemed only superficial, there was a slight bump beneath it.

When he had finally quietened and with her arms around him, Cherry spoke to him seriously, “You were a very naughty boy, Robbie, do you understand? You know you’re not to go outside without telling Mummy, if I was asleep you should have waited. You are not to go out on your own. Now, what do you say if you’ve been naughty?”

Robbie gulped, “I’s sorry, Mummy,” he said quietly.

“Good boy, now say sorry to your Grandmas too, you upset them as well.”

“Sorry Grandma Hilda, Grandma Nell,” he sounded so woebegone that both the older women found it difficult not to smile.

“Oh, Robbie,” Cherry buried her head into Robbie’s shoulder, “what am I going to do with you?”

Robbie swallowed the last of his milk, he looked up, “I go to bed now, Mummy? Cos I been naughty?”

There was a long pause, then Cherry sighed, she cuddled Robbie closer, “You should,” she said, “but not this time. I think you’ve given yourself enough of a punishment. Come on,” she rose, still clutching him, “we’ll stick you in the bath, clean you up, and then you can get dressed properly. We’ll have to find you another pair of shoes too.” She smiled across at the other two women before walking over to the bathroom.

Nell looked across at Hilda, “See she’s picking up your bad habits then,” she said.

Hilda looked puzzled so Nell elaborated,

“Justice with mercy, I mean, lad gets off scot-free.” Nell tried hard to sound as though she disapproved.

Hilda smiled, “And I’m just sure you’d have been so much sterner, Nell Wilson,” she said with a knowing look.

Nell looked scandalised, “Of course I would, I…” she stopped, then grinned, “alright, no I wouldn’t!”

#1704: Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada

Posted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 11:16 pm

Thanks for taking us off that cliff safely before midnight UK time - I suspect most people were waiting for it even if it was past bedtime! Of course I still have another few hours before bedtime.

Might have guessed Robbie would be trying to get back to see more of the penguins - I've seen that particular penguin parade and they really are quite fascinating.

More, please, Lesley, but, I beg of you, allow Robbie and the others to enjoy the rest of their weekend away in peace.

#1705: Author: calico, Location: Wellington, New Zealand

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 6:20 am

Thanks Lesley
Fabulous!!!

#1706: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 6:48 am

I'm grinning at Nell trying to be stern and failing.

Thank you Lesley.

#1707: Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 8:06 am

Phew! I'm so glad nothing terrible happened to Robbie. And I love the CS-esque punishment (and lack of punishment!) Thank you Lesley

#1708: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 8:31 am

Glad it wasn't a real cliff, leading to *murder and mayhem*, Lesley! Rolling Eyes

A lovely scene, and a typical bit of Nell and Hilda repartee at the end.

Thanks.

#1709: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 9:23 am

Must admit it was the penguins I thought of. Just the kind of child Robbie is I guess. I'm glad they had that nice little family bit there too. *wonders, am I reading too much into the fact that we are getting to know this Matt Lawson quite well* Question

#1710: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 11:23 am

*snuggles Robbie*

Thanks Lesley Very Happy

#1711: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 11:30 am

Thanks, Lesley. I've just caught up with this after having no access for over twenty-four hours.

#1712: Author: Laura, Location: London (ish)

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 12:11 pm

Squirrel wrote:

*wonders, am I reading too much into the fact that we are getting to know this Matt Lawson quite well* Question

Ditto! Is romance for Cherry on the horizon?

Thanks for resolving the cliff so quickly Lesley Very Happy

#1713: Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 12:26 pm

Either he's love interest for Cherry or the next villain. Lesley doesn't waste her characters!

#1714: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 6:21 pm

Oh, I hope he's a love interest for Cherry! Penguins shouldn't have nasty people working with them.

And Cherry and Robbie deserve someone nice.

#1715: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 6:51 pm

Considering how badly the day had started; the rest of the Sunday went extremely well. When Cherry had returned to the kitchen with a clean Robbie, dressed properly and wearing a different pair of shoes, the four had sat down to a very late breakfast. Then, after packing everything in the car, the four had gone for a walk along the coast, eventually walking over toward the Nobbies and able to watch some of the fur seals in the water. On the way back they met up again with the ranger who had found Robbie and he gave the little boy some pictures of Little Penguins in their burrows.

They started back toward the School just after having a light lunch, arriving back at the School mid afternoon. Once there they spent the rest of the afternoon and evening together; it was too cold to spend time out in the garden so instead they played games in the lounge before watching a little TV. After an evening meal they watched a video of Monsters Inc. Robbie sat on Nell’s lap, burying his head in her shoulder whenever a scary bit came on! Cherry and Robbie stayed the night rather than going back to their own flat and he insisted that Hilda put him to bed and read him a story. Before retiring to bed themselves Hilda and Nell had each, independently, checked that none of their doors or windows leading outside could be opened by a three-year-old!

…

The following morning, Monday, all returned to their normal routine relaxed and refreshed. It was probably just as well. Ruth Derwent reported back to Nell first thing; there had been no unforeseen problems over the weekend, any queries had been easily dealt with by her. The School had been quiet and the Housemistresses had reported no problems with any of the girls. There had been a rehearsal of the entertainment being presented by the School in the final week of term. This was a new initiative; during the Charities Week in the first term of the year, the girls had done a number of different fund raising activities for two local concerns, a hospice and a children’s home. However, the events of Boxing Day the previous year had led to a delegation from the Senior School to ask if more could be done to help those whose lives had been destroyed by the Tsunami.

After some discussion with the Senior Staff, it had been decided that the School would run entertainments especially for events such as this, they had decided to stage a musical on this occasion and the English and Music departments had been joined by others of the Staff that wanted to help out, in staging this, the first. Miss Jones, newly taken on as Drama and Singing Mistress, had been extremely busy ensuring that all the performers were ready. There were to be three performances, on three consecutive nights in the last week of term. All the money raised was for the Tsunami fund, and all tickets were sold out. The rehearsal had gone well.

After Ruth had left, Nell greeted Rachael Pelter, the HR Manager was there as the Appeal from Lindsay Hopkins was due later that morning. Over the last week or so the two had been very busy going over evidence, re-interviewing witnesses and speaking to new witnesses. It seemed that a number of other people had also been willing to give testimony as to Mrs Hopkins’ behaviour. The results were unlikely to be greeted well by her.

Promptly at ten o’clock Mrs Hopkins arrived, she had with her a TU rep. Not the same one who had accompanied her to the initial disciplinary case involving Cherry, or to her own case with the Deputy Head. She introduced him as Tony Newman.

The Appeal case went along prescribed lines, following exactly the protocol as detailed within the policy document. Mrs Hopkins was informed that she had been accused of bullying and harassment, shown the corroborating evidence, allowed to read through all the witness statements. She was then asked for her statement, explaining her actions. On this occasion, rather than just refuse to accept that she had done anything wrong, Mrs Hopkins attempted to argue that her comments had been taken out of context, that she was joking, that she never meant any harm.

“After all,” she said, warming to her theme, “which of us doesn’t insult the other, in a joking way, through the day? I never realised that Cherry Elliott was so sensitive as to look on it as bullying. If she were that bothered why didn’t she ask me to stop?”

“Any one comment or aside, Mrs Hopkins,” Nell responded, “can be argued as inconsequential, but the problem isn’t just one comment, it’s almost two terms of it, for no apparent reason that we have been able to ascertain.”

“Plus,” Rachael put in, “bullying is not what the person doing the bullying thinks, it’s what the one being bullied perceives. Basically, if a person feels they are being bullied, they almost always are.”

“Well I don’t think, for a first offence, and one that didn’t hurt anyone, that I deserved a Final Written Warning.” Mrs Hopkins said, somewhat triumphantly, “I think I only got that because the person supposedly being bullied is the pet of Miss Annersley.” She smiled slightly, “And I should tell you that, if I don’t get satisfaction here, I will resign and take this to an Industrial Tribunal, claiming constructive dismissal.”

There was silence for a time after this threat, then Miss Wilson asked Mrs Hopkins and Mr Newman to wait outside while the two women discussed the case. After only a short wait they were asked to come back inside.

#1716: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 7:04 pm

Typical - I go away for the weekend, come back, read through one cliff thinking phew, missed it, and then end up on another!

Thanks Lesley. Laughing

Glad they found Robbie safe and sound.

Am a little worried by Mrs. Hopkins final remark though - she's a nasty piece of work. Would love her to take it to the tribunal and lose, but get the feeling that it won't be that simple!

Thanks Lesley.

#1717: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 7:43 pm

Josie wrote:

Typical - I go away for the weekend, come back, read through one cliff thinking phew, missed it, and then end up on another!

Me too!
Thank you Lesley

#1718: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 7:53 pm

Stand firm, Nell and Rachael! Tribunals are nasty, soul destroying and expensive but I'm assuming they have all the evidence they need or they wouldn't have taken it this far.

*unless there is something we don't know about of course Shocked

#1719: Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right!

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 8:15 pm

patmac wrote:

*unless there is something we don't know about of course Shocked

There will be .... this IS Lesley afterall!!!

#1720: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 8:47 pm

Quote:

Mrs Hopkins arrived, she had with her a TU rep. Not the same one who had accompanied her to the initial disciplinary case involving Cherry, or to her own case with the Deputy Head. She introduced him as Tony Newman.

Why do I find Lesley's wording more suspicious than if she had written 'the new rep was called Tony Newman'?

#1721: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 8:56 pm

Oh dear, more rocks ahead.

Thanks, Lesley.

#1722: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 9:37 pm

Nell Wilson spoke, “I have fully reviewed this case, Mrs Hopkins, I looked at all the evidence already collated by my colleague Miss Annersley when she was investigating the case, and also at the additional evidence that Mrs Pelter and I managed to obtain. I consider that both she, and now I have followed the protocol as contained within the School Policy documents as fully as possible. You have been given the opportunity to obtain evidence yourself and to dispute the findings, you have not. Indeed, despite the evidence you maintain that the incidents did not occur, or at least that they were not intended.”

Miss Wilson took a sip from the glass of water on her desk, then continued, “I find no evidence to suggest that your original disciplinary hearing was in any way flawed. I find that you have been guilty of a long term deliberate campaign of bullying against another member of Staff, the reason for this appears to be solely your jealousy at her perceived fortune.”

“You can‘t say that!”

“I can, Mrs Hopkins,” Nell returned quickly, “I can also say, however, that I disagree with the penalty applied,”

Lindsay Hopkins smiled slightly, the smile faded at the Head’s next words.

“I believe that, rather than a Final Written Warning, your behaviour warrants Summary Dismissal. It is possible that Miss Annersley was attempting to give you another chance, or even that she did not wish to be too harsh, considering her relationship with your victim. I don’t have that problem, the evidence today has confirmed that you deserve to be dismissed. This will occur today, you will be paid up until today, you will not work any notice. A security guard will be here soon, he will escort you to your locker so you may retrieve your belongings and will then remove you from the premises.”

Lindsay Hopkins went white, “You can’t do that,”

“I can, Mrs Hopkins.”

“I’ll take you to court, wrongful dismissal, I’ll sue you for thousands.”

“That is your prerogative, Mrs Hopkins.” Nell’s voice was implacable.

Mrs Hopkins looked to her Union Rep, “Say something, dammit!”

Tony Newman shook his head, “Nothing I can say, Lindsay,” he said quietly, “Mike Logan and I both said that the evidence was unequivocal. That you’d been lucky not to get the sack. You knew there was that risk if you appealed, we both warned you.”

“You’re supposed to be on my side!”

“Yes, and we advised you to drop the appeal. And I can’t see any Tribunal changing the decision.”

The Head spoke on the phone to John Coates, a short time later a security guard appeared at the Study, “Would you come with me please, Mrs Hopkins?” he said politely.

Lindsay Hopkins looked round widely, seeing no respite in the gazes from the two women or her own Union Rep. She spun round and stalked from the room.

#1723: Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 9:53 pm

Oops - insisting on appealing against the advice of not one, but *two* union representatives, Lindsay - *not* a smart move!! Good to see that Nell had no trouble with dismissing the appeal and changing Hilda's penalty from warning to summary dismissal without batting an eyelid, too.

Somehow, with that turn of events, I doubt Lindsay will try to sue - but knowing Lesley, any cliffs may happen!!

#1724: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 10:11 pm

Very interesting to see that both union reps did not support her, I wonder what would happen if she did go to tribunal, would the union still stand with her?

Now wondering where all this is going, we have dodgy politicians, intefering mums, bullying and dismissal, a seige with hostages, bad relations between Hilda and Kathie/Nancy and then between Hilda and Nell, accusations of cheating and Hilda standing down as head, and a lost boy who was found again. Have I missed anything? The Dilemma could be anything and could be for either of them...and I somehow suspect that you are, as usual enjoying teasing us all and seeing us rise. Long may it last! Laughing

#1725: Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right!

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 12:02 am

maybe the dilemma will be who dies of complete and utter sheer emotional exhaustion by the end of term.

What a lot of stuff to happen!!!

#1726: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 2:24 am

Caught up with the last few episodes...and am exhausted by all the cliffs and resolutions! Is Ms Hopkins' next move to link up with slimy politician I wonder?

#1727: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 4:14 am

The actual dilemma will come - some time - though you may not appreciate it! Just to say I'm away tonight - more of this tomorrow.

#1728: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 4:37 am

Hmmmmm -- She looks defeated, but I don't trust that Hopkins woman further than I can throw her.

Glad Robbie is none the worse for wear! Overall, a nice weekend for the family. Very Happy

#1729: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 6:12 am

Well done, Nell!

I think Caroline's list sounds fairly comprehensive Wink

Trouble is, any or all of them could be red herrings. Confused

#1730: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 9:32 am

wot a lot of cliff-ettes! Glad I read them all in one go!
And glad that Robbie is ok and that nasty Hopkins has gone.

Thanks Lesley

#1731: Author: Jodi, Location: Glasgow most of the time

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 9:49 am

am I the only one to find Lelsey's comment that we may not recognise the dilemma when it comes as very unsettling and typical Lesley??
Very Happy

Thanks Lesley, am muchly enjoying wondering what on earth can happen next! Where do you get it all from?!!

#1732: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 9:51 am

Thank you Lesley! Wonderful cliffs.

And I look forward to the dilemma when we get there...

#1733: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 10:47 am

Yes, Jodi, that's the way Lesley works.

I bet we'll be doing lots more wibbling and eebling before too long.

#1734: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 11:32 am

Jennie wrote:

I bet we'll be doing lots more wibbling and eebling before too long.

Nice word, Jennie, and so appropriate. In fact I think I'll appropriate it and do lots of eebling. Rolling Eyes

Thanks, Lesley

#1735: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 11:40 am

I am beginning to wonder just how many hints we have missed so far. Confused

#1736: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 12:43 pm

Thanks Lesley - I'm glad Robbie was found and brought back safely before long.

And also glad Lindsay Hopkins has been well dealt with - although I shan't be surprised if she pops up again.

Liz

#1737: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 7:17 pm

Lesley wrote:

The actual dilemma will come - some time - though you may not appreciate it! Just to say I'm away tonight - more of this tomorrow.

*tiptoeing very slowly now*
Thanks Lesley

#1738: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 9:41 pm

Lesley wrote:

The actual dilemma will come - some time - though you may not appreciate it! Just to say I'm away tonight - more of this tomorrow.

I think we might appreciate it. Whether we enjoy it is another matter!!!! What I will enjoy is all the reaction!

#1739: Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 10:37 pm

Lesley wrote:

“I believe that, rather than a Final Written Warning, your behaviour warrants Summary Dismissal. It is possible that Miss Annersley was attempting to give you another chance, or even that she did not wish to be too harsh, considering her relationship with your victim. I don’t have that problem, the evidence today has confirmed that you deserve to be dismissed.

Ooh she had that coming to her! Twisted Evil

mwahaha *ahem* Really enjoyed that Lesley, thank you.
*waiting with bated breath for the actual dilemma* Confused

#1740: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 6:26 pm

Miss Wilson related the results of the appeal to her partner later that morning, when the pair were both able to take a short coffee break. Miss Annersley listened without comment while her friend detailed the action she had taken, there was silence for a time, then she smiled.

"You remember, Nell, last week? When you expressed the opinion that you had no business being in the post of Headmistress?"

Nell Wilson nodded, wondering what was to come.

"Well I think your actions today should prove to you that your earlier opinion was completely false. That type of decision is never easy, yet you made it without flinching. Congratulations my dear."

"You don't mind, then?"

"Of course not, the final decision is yours." Hilda smiled slightly, and even her closest friend didn’t see just how much it hurt to say those words, "I do, however feel rather sorry for Mrs Hopkins, oh not that she has been dismissed, your decision is, I believe, the correct one. No, I just feel that, had this been another term, she would have seen you first, then appealed to me. Would the final result have been different? I don’t know. But it is possible.”

“I’ve always said you are too soft, Hilda.”

“Perhaps, Nell, but I’m not going to change now,” Hilda returned placidly, “and you must admit, on occasion, giving a girl or member of Staff another chance has worked.”

Nell Wilson smiled somewhat ruefully, “Yes, I’ll admit it, far more frequently than I would have thought possible,” she took a deep breath, “and I wouldn’t want you to change, we complement each other.” She sipped her coffee then continued, “She may take us to an Industrial Tribunal.”

Hilda shrugged slightly, “I would think it unlikely, considering the advice from her union reps, but if she does we have an excellent case. We have followed policy religiously.”

The Bell rang out at that moment for the end of Break, Miss Annersley drained the rest of her coffee, “I must go, I’ve got a Literature lesson with the Lower Sixth,” she explained, “thanks for the coffee, I’ll see you at Lunch.” She smiled before leaving the Head’s Study.

…

The departure of Lindsay Hopkins was watched by a number of the Domestic Staff; while going to clear out her locker she had attempted to speak with those women who were there, trying to get their support. Without exception the women had told her that they would not support her. Kath Farman spoke to her,

“We stayed quiet for long enough, Lindsay, Cherry asked us not to interfere, so we didn’t. But you attempted to get the girl sacked when all she’d ever done was have one piece of luck.”

“She hit me!” Lindsay fumed, “Look!” she pointed to her face, “the bruising is still there.”

Kath nodded, “Yeah, and if you’d insulted my mother like that I’d have hit you too! Cherry looks on Hilda Annersley as a parent figure, the woman saved her, allowed her to be paroled and keep her kid, for no reason other than that she trusted that she’d make good.”

Some of the other women nodded agreement, Cherry wasn’t there, Karen had received a call from the Head telling her of the results of the appeal, afterwards Karen had asked Cherry into her office to prevent any further clashes.

Kath Farman continued, “She’d not hurt you, and if you didn’t approve of how she’d lived before, well, I’d like to see what you’d have done in the same situation. In the short time she’s been here Cherry has worked hard and not complained, and she’s never used her relationship with the Heads to get out of doing any of the mucky jobs we’ve got. We should have done something weeks ago.”

Lindsay saw all the others were agreeing with Kath and that her own arguments had lost any backing. She finished clearing out her locker and left in silence. A short time later she rang her husband who came to collect her from the Gatehouse.

…

The next couple of days were very quiet, Nell Wilson had interviewed Cherry Elliott on the Tuesday, chiefly because Karen had reported that the girl felt it was her fault that Lindsay had been sacked. Fifteen minutes listening to Nell’s unvarnished opinion of Mrs Hopkins managed to dissuade her of that thought. Cherry was very impressed at Nell’s command of the English language!

A routine request from someone interested in joining the adult education branch of the RCS came Tuesday afternoon, the typewritten letter had been addressed to Miss Annersley as Headmistress, asking for a personal interview. Hilda had automatically opened it, then realising what she had done, had taken it in to Nell, full of apologies. The Head had waved aside the apology then, after reading the letter, had groaned as she was swamped with reports. She’d then promised Hilda breakfast in bed at the weekend if she would take it! Hilda had laughed and agreed.

#1741: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 6:27 pm

Thank you Lesley!!!!!

So glad I missed all those cliffs!!!

*collapses in a heap*

#1742: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 6:46 pm

Thanks Lesley, but I am VERY worried about who sent the type written letter.

#1743: Author: Liane, Location: Manchester England

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 7:10 pm

Thanks for the update.
*trying to work put who the applicant is*
*sure it's someone we know*

#1744: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 7:22 pm

Feeling sad that Nell didn't notice how much it is hurting Hilda, but glad that all the other women agreed with Cherry's action and now wished they had done something earlier. A very common feeling - that sort of regret.

Thanks, Lesley.

#1745: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 8:55 pm

Well, hurrah that Linsday's gone...for now....though agreeing with Kathy that I don't think we've seen the last of her!

Quote:

even her closest friend didn’t see just how much it hurt to say those words,

Would have loved to hear Nell's unvarnished opinion of Mrs Hopkins!

Now off to wibble about the letter.

Thanks Lesley

#1746: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 9:03 pm

MaryR wrote:

Feeling sad that Nell didn't notice how much it is hurting Hilda,

I think it was more a case of Hilda hiding it too well.

The following afternoon saw the Deputy Head awaiting her visitor, having cleared her late afternoon timetable.

“Miss Annersley?” Rosalie Dene was at the door, a figure standing just behind her, “Your four o'clock appointment, Miss Franks, is here.” She ushered in a tall young woman, smiled at the Deputy Head and swiftly left, closing the door behind her.

“Thank you Rosalie,” Hilda said, smiling, she rose and walked across to greet her guest, “Miss Franks, welcome to the Real Chalet School, I understand you are interested in the adult educa...”

Miss Annersley's voice faded away as, suddenly, she recognised the woman standing in front of her. As she did, she moved swiftly back to her desk, intending to contact Security, but the younger woman was faster. Before the Deputy Head had taken more than a few steps the younger woman had caught up with her, grabbing her arm. Miss Annersley began to struggle then stopped dead as the woman brought her other hand up; it held a small, snub nosed automatic pistol.

“That's better,” the young woman said approvingly, “now, nice and steady, I want you to walk over to your chair.” She followed Miss Annersley, the barrel of the gun resting on her prisoner's temple, “Sit down,” she ordered, “and place your arms on the arms of the chair!”

Once she was seated the younger woman quickly reached into Miss Annersley's jacket; she removed her mobile phone and threw it onto the desk, she then removed Hilda’s wallet and placed it in her own pocket.

“Is that why you've come here, Thomas?" Hilda Annersley's voice was calm, "to indulge in petty theft?”

Thomas laughed, “Hardly, Annersley, you think I'd risk capture for that?”

Miss Annersley swallowed quickly then continued, “Then why are you here? The person that hired you has been caught; she's in a home for the criminally insane. You will not be paid.”

“I know that,” the woman replied, “I'm not here to…” she stopped as the intercom on the desk sounded.

“Hilda, sorry to disturb you, have you got a minute? I need to check something with you.” It was Nell Wilson.

“Who is that?” The woman said quickly.

“The Headmistress,” Hilda Annersley replied, “She knows I am in here, if I don't answer she will come in.”

“Get rid of her!” The order was spoken softly.

Hilda Annersley nodded slightly and, aware at all times of the gun, leant forward to flick on the Intercom, “I'm busy at the moment, Nell, I'll call you back.” There was nothing in her voice to indicate that the Deputy Head was in any way stressed or under pressure.

She sat back, looking across at Thomas, the younger woman smiled, “Good, now for the…” her voice trailed off as, without ceremony, the connecting door between the Head and Deputy Head's Studies opened.

“Hilda, sorry to be a pain, but I really need to ask…” Miss Wilson's voice trailed off as she took in the scene within the Deputy Head's Study. Thomas stood behind Miss Annersley's chair, the gun still pointed at her friend's head.

Hilda swallowed, “Nell, I really wish that you hadn't done that,” she said softly.

“Get in here now!” Thomas ordered, “Shut the door and sit down!”

Nell Wilson obeyed the order, when told she also threw her mobile onto the desk then sat back in the chair, her arms on the chair arms. Looking across at her friend she spoke quietly, “You OK, Hilda? Who is this?”

Hilda nodded very slightly, “I'm fine at the moment, Nell,” she replied, “remember me telling you of the attempt on my life, while I was in prison? This was the person responsible.”

Nell nodded, then her grey eyes fixed onto Thomas' face, “Know this,” she said quietly, “that should you kill Hilda Annersley, you will have bare minutes to live. I'll not try and disarm you, or capture you, so you can be sent back to prison. I will kill you.”

Thomas seemed taken aback, she attempted to laugh, “You're in no position to make threats,” she said scornfully, “even if I were to shoot her I'd still have the gun.”

Nell nodded, “Yes,” she agreed, “otherwise I'd have said seconds to live, you having the gun will just prolong the time it will take for me to kill you.” Her eyes, hard and merciless, bore into the convict, who glared back, neither woman wanting to retreat.

Miss Annersley broke the deadlock, “Do you think we could find an alternate solution? One where I actually survive?” Her gentle irony penetrated and both the other women looked across. She continued, “Thomas? Had you wanted to kill me, I believe you would already have done so, correct?”

Thomas nodded slightly, “Yeah,” she said quickly, “after last time, I'd not have hung about.”

“Then perhaps you could remove this gun from my head, and tell me why you are here?”

#1747: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 9:09 pm

Lesley!

Edited because I missed a post and my comments were totally out of date

Shocked

Resorts to wibbling instead - much more appropriate Wink

Last edited by patmac on Tue Jul 05, 2005 9:43 pm; edited 1 time in total

#1748: Author: Rachel,

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 9:18 pm

Beautifully done Lesley - I particularly liked Hilda hoping they could find an alternative in which she gets to survive! Laughing

#1749: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 9:35 pm

That line that rachel refered to actually had me smiling in the middle of the cliff.

Brilliant lesley. Cool

#1750: Author: Rosie, Location: Huntingdonshire/Bangor

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 10:32 pm

It had me giggling out loud!
Thanks Lesley - I'm with Hilda on the solutions front, just so you know! Wink

#1751: Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 11:05 pm

Arghh! just when things were getting comfortable... of course Twisted Evil

Nell must be absolutely terrifying to face down, I would never ever want to get on the wrong side of her. I feel chilled just reading it.

#1752: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 11:57 pm

Thanks Lesley

It's good to know that Hilda and Nell are never likely to suffer from boredom in their jobs!

Liz

#1753: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 1:20 am

Yes, they do have a full and varied life don't they?! Laughing

#1754: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 9:07 am

blimey, tis all go, isn't it!

Thanks lesley

#1755: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 9:13 am

*Joins the wibblers*

#1756: Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 12:36 pm

*Abseils down to check the trampoline's are in place*

Lesley... please... let them both live...

JackieJ (eebling)

#1757: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 1:50 pm

There was a pause while the young woman considered this then, “OK, I’ll tell you, but no tricks, I’m still holding this.” She raised the gun up, away from Miss Annersley’s head, Hilda found herself relaxing very slightly. A small movement from the Head caught her eye and she looked across to see that Nell Wilson had just shifted her weight slightly, in preparation to move. She shook her head, just once, Nell saw it and relaxed back, obeying her friend automatically.

Thomas dragged one of the chairs across so that she was sitting to one side of the Deputy Head’s desk, in a position where she could easily cover both the other women. She sat down, the gun still held in her right hand, watchful. There was silence for some seconds then Thomas spoke,

“Why’d you do it, Annersley?”

Hilda looked across at the woman with some puzzlement, “Why did I do what, Thomas?”

“Don’t mess about, I was conscious, I heard. You stopped Butcher, she was going to cut my throat. Why did you stop her?”

Miss Annersley considered, “I do not approve of murder,” she said slowly.

Thomas gave a short laugh, “Your friend does,” she indicated Miss Wilson.

Hilda Annersley looked across, her eyes met those of her friend, she smiled slightly, “Yes,” she said, “but there are any number of issues upon which Nell and I agree to differ.”

“Why did you come here, Thomas?” Nell Wilson’s voice was cold.

Thomas looked across, “Shut up!” she ordered, “I didn’t come to speak to you.” Her gaze went back to the woman behind the desk, “You’ve gotta have something special, Annersley, Butcher’s reputation is high, yet you influenced her. I even heard you did the same a couple of weeks back.”

Miss Annersley nodded, “I spoke to her, yes.”

“Well, whatever you’ve got, it means I owe you. And I don’t like owing people Annersley, makes me feel awkward. Means I can’t do my job.”

“You owe me nothing, Thomas,” Hilda Annersley said firmly.

Thomas stood up, “Well, I won’t do, not when I leave here.”

“What do you mean?” Nell asked the question, worried.

Thomas looked across at Nell, she smiled slightly, “Not what you think I mean,” she said flatly, she reached into her jacket with her left hand, pulled out a small file of papers and threw them onto the desk in front of Miss Annersley, “Look in there!”

Hilda Annersley looked puzzled.

“Go on, look,” Thomas ordered.

Hilda picked up the file, started to flick through the papers then stopped as one caught her eye, “Where did you get this?” she demanded.

Thomas laughed, “You think I’ve had many contract jobs since September? No, Butcher put the word out. So I’ve had to go back to another way of earning a living, I always was a good burglar. One place I got into, I got interested in what was inside a locked filing cabinet, couldn’t resist opening it. Found those papers in there, don’t worry, those are copies. I put the originals back in the cabinet, relocked it. As far as they’re concerned it wasn’t touched. But when I saw your name on the papers, well, thought you’d be interested, thought I could pay you back.”

Miss Annersley continued reading, passed some of the papers over to Nell Wilson to read, they both looked over at Thomas again, “Where did you get these?”

Thomas stared for a time, then quietly mentioned a name.

Both Hilda and Nell looked shocked.

Thomas smiled, “Well? Is it enough, have I repaid you?”

The Deputy Head nodded quickly, “Yes Thomas, you’ve repaid me, thank…”

Thomas cut her off, “Don’t want your thanks, Annersley, as I said, I don’t like owing anyone, so we’re even now. Next time we meet…well, let’s just say you’d better hope no one’s given me another contract.”

“Very well.” Miss Annersley nodded, “I’ll remember.”

“Right, now, pick up that roll of tape, Annersley and get up!” Thomas gestured to some masking tape on Miss Annersley’s desk, “You’re to secure your friend here to her chair and gag her. Then it’ll be your turn.”

“That won’t be necessary,” Hilda said quickly, noting that Nell had gone pale at the thought.

“Yes it will,” Thomas returned, “think I’m stupid? I leave you and you’ll be on to your Security people before I’ve left the building. Why d’ya think I had to set up a meeting with you? Couldn’t get in here otherwise, security’s too good.”

“You have my word, Thomas, we will not contact security.” Hilda Annersley’s voice was firm, she indicated the papers, “You have just performed a great service for me, I would not repay you in that way.”

Thomas looked into the blue-grey eyes for some seconds, “What about her?” she indicated Nell Wilson.

“Nell?”

The Head thought for a time, “OK Hilda, I’ll go with you on this.”

Thomas looked at both of them for some time before making a decision, “You double cross me Annersley, I won’t wait for a contract,” she warned.

“If she double crosses you, Thomas, you’ll be in prison,” Nell returned sharply, “but don’t worry, because she won’t.”

Thomas thought for a moment, then, “Right, well wait for ten minutes after I’ve left the Gates then,” she turned to go, Miss Annersley’s voice stopped her,

“Thomas, I said I wouldn’t contact security about your visit, but I will tell them about a theft.”

The young woman stopped, she reached into a pocket and withdrew the slim wallet she had taken earlier, “Pity,” she said, “I could do with the cash.” She threw it onto the desk, turned to go.

“Wait!” Hilda Annersley said quickly, as Thomas looked over she continued, “Inside the wallet, take out one hundred dollars.”

“I don’t want your charity, Annersley.”

“Call it a consultation fee.”

Thomas retrieved the wallet, removed one hundred dollars, she looked over, “I’ll pay you back.”

“Only if you can guarantee that the money has been obtained legally.”

Thomas shrugged, “You might have to wait a while then.” She nodded to both women then left, placing the gun back into her pocket as she left the room.

Inside the Deputy Head’s Study Nell Wilson looked across at her partner, “Hilda,” she began.

“I know, I’m soft hearted,” Hilda smiled.

“You’re not going to call Security?”

“No Nell, and neither are you, are you?”

Nell gave a rueful smile, “No, let’s have a look at the rest of those papers. Then we can decide how we can use them.”

#1758: Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 1:56 pm

*has an inkling what the dilemma will be...*

*eebles some more*

Thanks Lesley...

JackieJ

#1759: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 1:58 pm

What a beautiful reflection of both their characters, Lesley. Smile

Thank you.

#1760: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 2:41 pm

Phew!!!

Thanks Lesley! You had me worried for a few minutes there!

#1761: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 4:37 pm

Thanks Lesley

Glad they both survived that with no injuries.

Liz

#1762: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 5:21 pm

Gobsmacked! I don't know how you think up the plots, Lesley Confused

Have we arrived at the dillema??????

they were both so in character there!

#1763: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 5:45 pm

Two brilliant posts, Lesley. Loved their gentle humour at a time like that.

Thanks Kiss

#1764: Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 6:55 pm

Well I'm glad I read those last 2 posts together.

#1765: Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 7:02 pm

I'm with you on that one, Alex!

If those papers are what I think they are, Hilda and Nell have a very pretty ethical dilemma on their hands - even if this still isn't *the* dilemma of the title.

#1766: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 7:27 pm

Nicely done Lesley. Looking forward to seeing what's in the papers.

#1767: Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right!

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 7:32 pm

echoes Pat completely. Wonder where she broke into ?

#1768: Author: Laura, Location: London (ish)

Posted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 9:28 pm

An ethical dilemma, I take it? Thanks Lesley - but I'm glad I missed the cliffs!

#1769: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Thu Jul 07, 2005 1:15 am

Lord, you're a crafty beggar Lesley!

#1770: Author: Rebecca, Location: Kendal/Oxford

Posted: Thu Jul 07, 2005 11:00 am

I've finally caught up with all 89 pages of this and all I can say is WOW! I feel like I've been through the wringer several times over - I'm just glad I didn't get hooked on it during Finals!

#1771: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Jul 07, 2005 12:11 pm

I'm beginning to wonder what else can possibly happen in this drabble, then I remember Lesley's inventiveness. Is it time to hunker down in my bunker?

#1772: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Thu Jul 07, 2005 1:48 pm

Thank you Lesley.

#1773: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Thu Jul 07, 2005 7:56 pm

Jennie wrote:

I'm beginning to wonder what else can possibly happen in this drabble, then I remember Lesley's inventiveness. Is it time to hunker down in my bunker?

Thats better than Pims desk!
*Stocking up on food*
Thanks Lesley

#1774: Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2005 12:16 am

Jennie wrote:

I'm beginning to wonder what else can possibly happen in this drabble, then I remember Lesley's inventiveness.

Says it all Very Happy

I'm finally up to date Shocked

So it's time to hand round the Baileys, open some rather nice Tamdhu whisky and find the fair trade chocolate

and remember to breathe - reading lots of this in 1 go does tend to mean I forget to Very Happy

#1775: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2005 7:34 am

I've been missing things! Shocked

*thinks of more things that could go wrong*
*is sure Lesley will think of more*

(but has faith in Hilda & Nell Neutral

)

#1776: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2005 12:20 pm

*eeekles*

*squeakles*

*hides again*

but thank you Lesley (i think)

#1777: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2005 12:54 pm

Apologies for there being no post yesterday - I've not been well the last three days and, in any case, yesterday, wasn't able to write.

Ten minutes later Miss Annersley placed a call through to the Office Manager requesting tea for two, Rosalie Dene took the tray in herself,

“Oh, has Miss Franks left?” she asked, “Will she be starting here as an adult pupil?”

Miss Annersley smiled slightly, “I don’t think so, Rosalie,” she said, “I don’t believe we could offer her the type of education she wanted.”

“Pity,” replied Miss Dene, “while I was chatting to her, prior to bringing her in to you, she seemed very interested.” She smiled at the two women and left, making a mental note to have a word with Nancy Chester. Both the Head and Deputy Head looked very pale, as though they had received a shock. They had probably been over-doing it, as usual.

In the Deputy Head’s Study the two friends looked across at each other,

“Well Hilda, what do you think?”

Miss Annersley paused to sip from her mug, reflecting suddenly that she didn’t actually miss the dainty china cups of the original chalet school, that she preferred having far more tea to drink. She sighed,

“Nell, this is rather difficult,” she said.

“What? That you’ve got proof there that the charges against you are false? Not only false, but fabricated by people with a reason to wish you harm? What’s difficult?”

Hilda Annersley looked across at her friend, Nell was rapidly losing the pallor that had appeared when Thomas had ordered that she be secured, but Hilda knew her friend was still occasionally troubled by things that reminded her of her ordeal with Janet McRae, she spoke softly, “It’s difficult because we know that these papers were obtained illegally. We’re hardly going to be able to take the evidence to the police now, are we?”

Nell Wilson shook her head impatiently, “Hilda Annersley will you stop thinking that everything needs to be completely above board? We don’t need to involve the police at all, all we need to do is go and see the original owner of these papers. I can guarantee that he’ll not want details of this made public.”

“You think he’ll really be concerned?”

“Are you kidding? To that type image is everything. All we have to do is say we’ll go to the newspapers. I can think of at least three that would publish these papers without a qualm, we might even get a decent price for them!”

The Deputy Head considered, then hesitantly, “It’s rather dishonest, Nell,”

Nell Wilson closed her eyes and took some deep breaths, when she spoke it was obvious that she was only just controlling her temper, “I swear, Hilda, I could shake you at times!” She paused, thinking, “Right, I want you to do something for me, forget that these papers apply to you, in fact forget that the allegations apply to you, consider that they apply to, oh I don’t know, Ruth perhaps. Yes, Ruth is the one accused of cheating, the one who has had to resign her position, has been unfairly accused. Can you do that?”

Miss Annersley looked puzzled but obediently considered, “Yes Nell, I can do that,” she said at length.

“Right, now, these papers have just appeared in exactly the same way, but apply to Ruth, they fully exonerate her. Are you going to use them? I want you to be completely honest now!”

Hilda thought seriously for some time, then, “Yes,” she said reluctantly, “regardless of my personal misgivings, if it would save a member of Staff then I’d use them.”

“Thank you!” Nell exploded, “Now do you mind having the same consideration for yourself as you have for the rest of the Staff and pupils?” Nell’s voice was very sarcastic here.

Hilda looked across, a sheepish smile on her lips, “I really annoy you at times, Nell, don’t I?”

Nell Wilson glared at her friend, “More than you can imagine, Hilda,” she said fervently, “more than you can imagine!”

#1778: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2005 12:57 pm

Thanks Lesley! I hope you're feeling better now.

Poor Nell - how frustrated she must be.

Loved the little random thought about cups/mugs.

Liz

#1779: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2005 12:59 pm

Wow, Thanks Lesley. That was a gripping read. How like Hilda, and how like Nell!

Hope you are feeling better now.

#1780: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2005 3:28 pm

Just to let everyone know - will be away now until Sunday afternoon - going to stay with my parents tonight - so can get to Euston by 0830hrs tomorrow morning!

#1781: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2005 4:14 pm

Have a great time Lesley.

Liz

#1782: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2005 6:36 pm

I did love that! Oh Hilda, give in to the dark side occasionally! Rolling Eyes

Thanks, Lesley.

Looking forward to meeting you tomorrow. Do I curtsey? Embarassed

#1783: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2005 6:42 pm

I never thought I would say 'Yay' to Lesley not posting but it means whe is coming to the NW gather so I can't really complain!

#1784: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2005 6:46 pm

Yipee, will see lesely tomorrow!

#1785: Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right!

Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2005 8:43 pm

Wonders if we might get the next installment early - Lesley night write it on the train!

#1786: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Jul 09, 2005 12:50 pm

Have a great time, Lesley.

#1787: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sun Jul 10, 2005 8:07 pm

I do hope you made good use of your laptop on the way home Lesley.

#1788: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sun Jul 10, 2005 8:08 pm

I'm back! And yes Kate I fell asleep on the train so didn't get to write anything!

There was silence for a time, then Hilda stirred, “Very well then Nell,” she began, “as you’ve pointed out so eloquently, perhaps I should consider reacting in the same way to save myself.” She smiled at her partner before continuing, “I assume you want to accompany me?”

“You assume correctly, Miss Annersley,” Nell said mock fiercely, “think I’d let you have all the fun?”

The business of the School, obviously, was a priority, however the two managed to arrange matters so that Thursday morning was free for both of them. Leaving Ruth Derwent in charge, the two travelled into Melbourne and walked into the offices of the ruling Political Party for the region. Once there they asked to speak to the politician, Sam Hartley. There was a brief delay while his secretary attempted to intimidate the two women…Hilda and Nell almost felt sorry for her. Eventually, after only fifteen minutes of waiting the now sulky secretary informed them that Mr Hartley would see them now.

Inside the plush office the politician Sam Hartley rose with a wide smile upon his face,

“Ladies, this is an unexpected surprise,” he shook both their hands with somewhat excessive vigour, though Miss Annersley did notice him wincing very slightly after shaking Miss Wilson’s hand, she spun round to glare at Nell, who responded with an abnormally innocent expression and a slight smirk.

After ushering them both to seats the politician looked round, “Miss Annersley, may I offer my condolences?”

Hilda Annersley raised an eyebrow and the man continued, “I have, of course, kept up to date with the events happening within Monash University, after all, one of the mainstays of my Party’s manifesto is education. I’m sure that your ordeal will be over soon, that they will be able to exonerate you very quickly.”

Miss Annersley said nothing for a few seconds, then reached into her jacket, removing a file of papers she placed them on the desk in front of the man,

“Perhaps sooner than you think, Mr Hartley,” she said solemnly, “please, read this.”

Finding himself automatically responding to the note of command in Miss Annersley’s voice the man reached for the file of papers, there was silence for a short time, then both women watched with interest as the man suddenly went pale,

“Where did you get this?” he gasped.

Hilda smiled, “Let’s just say that an…acquaintance of mine discovered them.”

The man’s eyes moved swiftly toward a filing cabinet behind his desk before turning to stare at the two women once more.

Nell Wilson shook her head, almost sorrowfully, “Mr Hartley you really are going to have to develop more of a ‘poker face’ if you wish to progress in politics. Speak to Hilda here, I’m sure she could teach you,“ she grinned.

The man swallowed sharply a few times, then his racing mind noticed something, “These are just copies,” he said quickly, “nothing but copies, they’re not proof of anything.”

The two women looked at each other, Miss Annersley sighed, “I said we ought to have contacted the police, Nell,”

Miss Wilson nodded, “You did, I should listen in future, oh and perhaps we should contact the Herald Sun? That journalist seemed really intere…”

“No!” The response from the man was almost a strangled yelp, both women turned to face him,

“Did you say something Mr Hartley?” Hilda Annersley was very polite.

Hartley swallowed two or three times, “Give me a little time, I’ll see what I can do,” he said quickly.

Nell looked over at Hilda, “I don’t know, Hilda,” she said, pursing her lips, “That journalist said the Herald Sun could offer a lot of money,”

“...twenty-four hours,” Hartley burst out, “come back here in twenty-four hours, I’ll have sorted everything by then.”

Hilda Annersley looked deep into his eyes, she nodded, “Twenty-four hours, Mr Hartley,” she confirmed in her soft voice, “We’ll see you tomorrow.”

The two women walked out side by side, past the cowed secretary.

#1789: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sun Jul 10, 2005 8:14 pm

Thank you - even if you did practice dereliction of duty by sleeping on the train!

#1790: Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge

Posted: Sun Jul 10, 2005 8:16 pm

*giggles*

will people NEVER learn *shakes head*

you would think people would stay well away from Miss Annersley... because they will never defeat her...

(because yes of COURSE this is all real... mmhmmm *nods*)

thank you Lesley Very Happy

#1791: Author: Katarzyna, Location: North West England

Posted: Sun Jul 10, 2005 8:17 pm

You slept! Surely not!!

Thanks for the update Smile

#1792: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Sun Jul 10, 2005 8:45 pm

Yay for Miss Annersley. Razz

Will we find out what was on those papers? Question

#1793: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sun Jul 10, 2005 9:03 pm

Thank you Lesley!!

Go Hilda!
(and Nell!) Wink

#1794: Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right!

Posted: Sun Jul 10, 2005 9:21 pm

love the way Hilda and Nell can turn anyone into a gibberung wreck!
Thanks Lesley - that was great. Like Carolyn I do hope we get to see what is in those papers.

#1795: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sun Jul 10, 2005 10:40 pm

Thanks Lesley

Liz

#1796: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Mon Jul 11, 2005 12:49 am

Loved this...and they sure named the right paper!!!

#1797: Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada

Posted: Mon Jul 11, 2005 1:08 am

This is great, Lesley - Sam Hartley was definitely mistaken if he thought he'd get away with tangling with Hilda and Nell. Looking forward to the next bit! Also hope we find out what is in those papers!

#1798: Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW

Posted: Mon Jul 11, 2005 2:57 am

Loved this...and they sure named the right paper!!!

Is the Herald Sun like the Victorian version of the Daily Terror then? Oops I mean the Daily Telegraph.

Thanks for the updates Lesley and I hope you had a wonderful gather.

#1799: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Mon Jul 11, 2005 5:07 am

Thought that the Herald Sun might be a bit like our Sun newspaper - it was down as the most popular daily! I'm away tonight again I'm afraid - my cats will be disowning me soon - but managed to write a little more! Twisted Evil

Outside in the small car park the two walked over to the car,

“Think he’ll come through?” Nell asked as she eased into the driver’s seat.

“I don’t know,” Hilda replied, “he was certainly very frightened. And very guilty. We’ll see tomorrow.”

Once they were both belted in Nell started the engine and pulled away, as she negotiated the busy Melbourne traffic there was silence apart from the low sound of the radio, once away from the city and travelling along the roads to Point Nepean both women relaxed and chatted about the weekend,

“Have you any plans for the weekend, Hilda?”

Hilda shook her head, “Nothing really Nell, you remember the girls are coming to Sunday lunch, don’t you? You‘ll not have too much to do at the School will you?”

“No, any work I’ve got will be complete on Saturday, as the last weekend before the end of term I’m not anticipating any problems. Cherry and Robbie are coming over as well, aren’t they?”

“Yes,” Hilda smiled, “it’s just as well, we’ve not been able to discuss our plans for the holidays before n…look out!”

Even before Hilda had called out, Nell was reacting as a large security van with blacked out windows swung in front of them and braked sharply. Nell stepped hard on the brake and the car shuddered to a halt bare inches away from the side of the van.

Hilda took in a deep breath, aware that Nell was swearing next to her about the idiocy of van drivers. The road was otherwise completely clear, ‘what on Earth were they playing at?’

The driver of the van, dressed in security guard uniform, got out and walked back toward the car. Nell got out to remonstrate with him, while Hilda sat back resignedly to watch. She noted that another van had drawn up behind them on an otherwise empty road. Suddenly, the back door of this second van opened and some five or six men, all dressed as security guards, stepped out. Two ran up to where Nell was disputing matters with the first van’s driver and, before she had a chance to speak, had grabbed hold of her and begun to hustle her into the back of the first van.

Hilda watched this unbelievingly at first, then reached for her mobile phone, as she did others of the men appeared by her car window,

“Don’t do that, Miss Annersley,” one of them said swiftly, “or your friend could be hurt.” The warning was delivered in stark tones. “Now, get out of the car, or she’ll…” He didn’t finish the sentence, leaving the rest to her imagination.

Hilda Annersley took a deep breath, nodded quickly and opened the door, immediately two of the men reached in and pulled her from the seat, frog marching her to the first van. Relieved of her phone she was pushed into the van after her friend and the door unceremoniously locked behind her.

Back on the road, one of the men got into the car while the rest got back into the second van, the two vehicles followed the first van, with its unusual cargo, retracing the journey back into Melbourne.

#1800: Author: Caroline OSullivan, Location: Reading, Berkshire, UK

Posted: Mon Jul 11, 2005 6:00 am