Dorothy's Tale Part 1 20/08/05 COMPLETE
The CBB -> Ste Therese's House
#1: Dorothy's Tale Part 1 20/08/05 COMPLETE Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Aug 14, 2005 1:23 pm

Some of you will already have met Dorothy who is Hugh's intended in 'The Village Boy's Tale' or even more recently, making a guest appearance in 'Swiss Family Watson'.

She is mentioned once in 'The New Chalet School' right at the start when the girls arrive and is never mentioned again.

"Dorothy Hatcherd, mousy-brown of locks and sallow of colouring, with clever, grey-green eyes behind enormous spectacles"

The ever breeding bunnies decided she should have her own story and flatly refused to tell me any more about Reg till I did so. Rolling Eyes

This will be a short drabble with only a few posts but there will be other sections as the years go by.



“That’s done!” Dorothy gave one final flick of her duster to the windowsill in the tiny guest bedroom and ran down the stairs.

As she reached the hallway, she saw that the second post had arrived. Picking it up, she flicked through the envelopes and frowned as she laid the pile on the hall table. It have been four weeks since a letter had arrived from her father and her mother was becoming increasingly worried.

Hugh was due to arrive this afternoon. She’d talk to him about it. Perhaps he could reassure Mum. Despite her worry about her father, she couldn’t help smiling at the thought of Hugh being here for a whole week. It was strange to think that a year ago she didn’t even know he existed and now her life revolved round him.

Everything was done now so she could sit and read till he arrived. After making a cup of tea, she went through to the sitting room and leant back in a chair, book open in front of her. It was hot and, even with the window open, there was no breeze. Gradually her eyes closed.

*

“Four eyes, four eyes!” “Can’t catch a ball!” “Teacher’s pet!” “Silly little mook with her nose in a book!”

The little girl hurried down the street, trying not to cry. Michael Higgins and his gang followed behind. They knew better than to pick on her at school – at least when anyone might see – but the quiet little girl was easy prey as she walked home, alone.

Dorothy wished she had a friend who could walk home with her but her only real friend lived in the opposite direction. The child of clever parents, Dorothy had been able to read, write and do simple sums before starting school and, with forty children in the class, the teacher was just glad of the occasional quiet little girl who needed little help and caused no trouble. She didn’t notice her silent misery.

She hated her glasses with their pink round frames, thick lenses and the wire loops which pinched behind her ears. She had tried leaving them off but without them she couldn’t read or see the blackboard. Anyway, her mother had been so cross that she wouldn’t try that again.

Nearly home! They’d leave her at the corner in case someone saw them. Not far now! Dorothy quickened her pace slightly. “Don’t run.” She muttered to herself. If she ran, they would as well and the jeers would get louder.

Here was the corner. She turned into the street and heaved a sigh of relief. Now she broke into a run and gave a little skip of joy as she realised it was Friday. No more school till Monday. Perhaps Dad would take her into the shop tomorrow and she could dust the books.

The bookshop was lovely. All those shelves of exciting new books. Someday, she would be able to read all of them, even the really big ones. Perhaps then she wouldn’t have to go to school and read the boring baby books.

*

Dorothy woke with a start. Goodness, she hadn’t thought of those boys for years. What a little misery she had been! She glanced up at the clock. Still an hour at least till Hugh would arrive. Picking up her book again, she tried to concentrate but it was no good. Her mind seemed to be darting all over the place. Leaning back in the chair, she gave herself up to the memories sparked off by the dream.

Little Dorothy knew, for she had heard it said often enough, that her hair was mousy and her skin sallow. She learned quickly that being clever was not popular with her classmates. If she had had been pretty or good at rounders, it might have been different. As it was, she seemed the odd one out most of the way through elementary school.

Tom, her brother, didn’t notice. He was four years older than Dorothy and full of confidence. She was just his mousy little sister.

It was when she was ten that things changed. Miss Maloney was her class teacher that year. A tall angular woman with greying hair and an imposing presence, she was dedicated to her work. She had a reputation for getting children through the Scholarship and Dorothy was one she thought would be likely to pass. There were classes after school and on Saturday mornings. She knew now that Miss Maloney took these in her own time and was not paid for the extra work. At the time, of course, she didn’t realise that teachers had lives out of school. She just accepted the change and began to gain confidence. It was then that she first considered the idea of being a teacher herself when she grew up.

Her eyes closed again and she was eleven.

*

Mrs Hatcherd bent down to pick up the post and selected a buff envelope with trembling hands. As she opened it, Dorothy held her breath. “Please let me pass, please let me pass.” She thought, clasping her hands tightly together as she watched her mother open the letter.

The smile on her Mother’s face gave her the answer. Bursting into tears, Dorothy flung herself into her mother’s arms.

“You’ve passed! What are you crying for?” Her mother sounded bewildered.

It was some minutes before Dorothy was able to speak. “I’m crying because I’m happy!” she managed to get out.

“You silly girl!” exclaimed her mother, holding her tight. “I thought for a moment you were upset because you had passed.”

Once she had stopped hiccupping and washed her face, they got ready and took the tram into Leeds to the shop to tell Dad. Luckily there were no customers in the shop as he was so excited he swung her up in the air before kissing her.

“This calls for a celebration. Lets all go out and have an early lunch. I’m right proud of you, young Dorothy.” He quickly put up the sign saying ‘Back in half an hour’, locked up and led them down to the Headrow.

*

Her father’s approval meant a lot to the young Dorothy. It still did and Hugh seemed to understand why she wanted to wait to get engaged till he came home from the war. It was so sweet that he wanted to ask her Dad’s permission formally.

There! Her thoughts had led her back to the worrying lack of letters. It was no good getting in a state about it. Any number of things could hold up letters in war time and it was bad enough her mother worrying all the time without getting in a state about it herself. She’d be no help if she didn’t keep a cheerful face.

She glanced at the clock again. Amazingly, only another five minutes had passed.

Her time at the High School had been happier. Here it was acceptable to be clever and her mother had decided she was old enough to have a smarter pair of grown up glasses. She discovered a love for languages and began to focus on the idea of teaching French and German. Soon she was heading the Form in most subjects and had made one or two friends with other quiet girls.

Her biggest supporter through these years was Aunt Gertrude, her Godmother. Dorothy had never quite sorted out what the relationship really was but she had always called her Aunt. All she knew was that there was some sort of scandal attached to her marriage and all the Hatcherds had disowned her, apart from Dorothy’s father who had staunchly defended her right to make her own decisions.

Gertrude Goddard had married a man much older than herself and been widowed two years later aged thirty and childless. Her husband had been well off and she was ‘warm’ as the locals put it, with no money worries and so had indulged herself with travel, bringing back beautiful art to decorate her large house.

As a consequence, she was regarded as eccentric and, after one or two encounters with people who tried to part her from her money, she became very wary and only made friends with difficulty. She never lost touch with Albert and Anne Hatcherd and, when Dorothy was born, she was invited to be Godmother.

*

“On two conditions.” she declared, when asked. “You will not call the poor child Gertrude. It always ends up shortened to ‘Gert’ and is no name to saddle a child with.”

With some relief, Anne Hatcherd agreed to this.

“Secondly, you will let me help her financially later when she needs it. If she is clever, she shall have whatever education she needs and if not, she shall have whatever training she wants to follow her chosen career. No! Hear me out!” she said, holding up her hand as Dorothy’s father opened his mouth to protest.

“I promise I won’t spoil her or treat her differently than Tom but you’ve two to educate. You wouldn’t let me help you any other way and I admire you for that, but this is different! I’ve no children. You stood by me years ago when the rest of the family didn’t want me to marry Hubert. Now I can do something for your little girl. My father didn’t think it worth educating girls. I wish now that I had been able to study Art History when I was younger. Poor Hubert spent so much time answering my very basic questions. Not that he minded, the darling.” Her face looked sad for a moment and Anne realised that she had truly loved her husband and missed him still. She pulled herself together and smiled at them. “Come on! Do agree.”

Anne and Albert looked at one another. Anne nodded.

Gertrude smiled, triumphantly. “Then I accept.”

*

Dorothy knew nothing of this, of course, though she saw Aunt Gertrude often and sometimes was allowed to stay with her for the weekend, gaining a love of beautiful art and quite a knowledge of history, for her Godmother liked nothing better than telling her stories about the paintings and china she had collected.

As is often the case, she found her Aunt easier to talk to than her own parents and confided many of her childish dreams and woes to her Godmother who despite being old in Dorothy’s eyes, seemed to understand her.

When Dorothy was fourteen came the first hint that there were changes afoot. Unbeknown to her, her parents were summoned to see the Headmistress.

*

“Dorothy shows a very strong gift for languages. She really would benefit from a year in Europe to practice her conversation. I don’t mean now!” she added as Dorothy’s mother looked alarmed. “After she has her Higher School Certificate would be the appropriate time if it is possible. She won’t be able to take that on the continent. I just wanted you to be aware of her aptitude. I know she says she wants to be a teacher and she can stay on here and take her Higher Certificate and then go to Teacher Training College, but she has the potential to go farther if you can manage it. If she carries on as she is, she could easily get a place at one of the major Universities.”

“We’ll think it through. A lot will depend on what Dorothy herself wants. She’s set her heart on teaching since she was about ten. She may not want to give that up.”

The Headmistress looked surprised. “She is only fourteen, Mr Hatcherd. I don’t see how her views can count in this. She seems a biddable child.”

Mr Hatcherd set his jaw in a way that would have made a more perceptive person realise that he was prepared to do battle.

“I beg to differ on that score. Dorothy will have a say in where her future lies. I would like to keep all options open in case she changes her mind later. We’ll think on this and let you know what we decide.”

Seeing the unmistakeable signs of ruffled feathers, Mrs Hatcherd added,

“Thank you for your help. We do want what is best for her. We will consider it and let you know.”

*

Dorothy was duly consulted. Knowing nothing of her Godmother’s offer and aware that her father was not rich by any means, she could not see how the question could even arise. She was adamant that she wanted to be a teacher.

“I’d love to go and learn more. I’d like to learn Italian as well. I really do want to teach and if I could specialise in languages, that would be marvellous but it would be too expensive.”

There the matter would have rested if her father had not consulted Gertrude.

“We said we would let her pay for Dorothy’s education later, if she needed it. She may know more than we do about education in Europe. There’s plenty of time to decide. We had a postcard from Austria last week. Let’s wait and talk to her.” Her father had said when her mother was hesitant about bringing the matter up.

A couple of months later, a note came from Gertrude to tell them she was home again and Albert went to see her.

“You see,” he ended his tale, “We really don’t know what to do. She’s clever and her Headmistress thinks she could go farther than teaching but she’s set her heart on it. What do you think?”

“Would you let her go, perhaps next year, if I could find an English School on the Continent where she could take her School Certificate and then her Higher and improve her languages at the same time? That would give her three years over there. I don’t honestly think a Finishing School would be the sort of place she would enjoy.”

“Are there any?” queried Albert, doubtfully.

“I know of one at least. It is in Austria, near a beautiful lake. I met an American businessman at an Auction in Innsbruck and, after a fine tussle over a pair of vases, we had lunch together. His daughter is there and he is well pleased. He says she chatters away quite happily in French and German and her general education is well up to standard.

On a whim, I took a trip up to have a look at the area, which is just as beautiful as he said. I met some of the pupils out on a walk with two of the mistresses and had a chat with them. I was impressed with their language skills and the girls do sit the School Certificates. She’d be in a smaller school, which might well suit her better. Would you like me to get a prospectus?”

“Yes, please. Her Head Mistress seemed surprised that we would take her wishes into account but I’m sure we are right on that.”

“So am I!” retorted Gertrude. “There’s no way I would agree to send her if she really didn’t want to go. Though I must warn you, I will do my best to persuade her. She’s a clever girl and I really would like to see her have the best start she can.”

There the matter was left and Gertrude wrote to the school that very day.

When the Prospectus came, Dorothy’s parents were most impressed and explained to Dorothy what was proposed.

“If you really don’t want to go, you don’t have to.” Her Mother said when her Father had finished. “It’s a big chance for you but we won’t insist on you going. Take your time and read the Prospectus carefully and then talk to Aunt Gertrude. She has been there and met some of the girls.”

Dorothy’s eyes were like saucers and she took the Prospectus up to her room to read. She was entranced when she saw the picture of the wooden Chalets with the snow capped peaks in the background. They reminded her of an illustration in Heidi.

Turning the pages, she saw to her surprise that the school was fully trilingual and that she would be able to learn Italian. It was a much smaller school that Leeds High School, she noted. Not being fond of large crowds, that appealed to her as well.

The only thing worrying her was the thought of going so far away. Apart from visits to her Godmother, the only time Dorothy had been away was on holiday and her parents and Tom had always been there.

“What if I don’t like it?” she thought. “I can’t just come home and go back to the High School. I’d look such a fool.”

*

Dorothy laughed to herself, thinking of how unsure she had been. She looked up at the clock. Only ten minutes till Hugh arrived. On an impulse, she leapt up and went into the hall, put on her hat and gloves and left the house to meet him. She couldn’t bear to wait another ten minutes.

She set off briskly to the tram stop and arrived just as the tram was pulling in.

His eyes lit up when he saw her waiting and as soon he alighted, he hurried over and heedlessly dropped his case to the pavement and took her in his arms where she longed to be.

Last edited by patmac on Sat Aug 20, 2005 6:06 pm; edited 5 times in total

 

#2:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sun Aug 14, 2005 1:38 pm

So tear-jerking, yet so triumphant, Patmac. this is great. More power to your bunnies.

 

#3:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Aug 14, 2005 3:16 pm

Oh lovely, whenever I read about that

"Dorothy Hatcherd, mousy-brown of locks and sallow of colouring, with clever, grey-green eyes behind enormous spectacles"

I'll be able to insert this description.

Thanks Patmac.

 

#4:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Sun Aug 14, 2005 3:57 pm

Lovely to find out more about Dorothy - I couldn't place the name at all when I first saw it, now I'll be able to and that's great! Thanks, Pat!

 

#5:  Author: JoW, Location: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sun Aug 14, 2005 5:18 pm

Lovely. It's great to get to know Dorothy better. I love her and Hugh.

 

#6:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Sun Aug 14, 2005 5:21 pm

Yay, more Patmac drabble! And such a lovely long post too!

 

#7:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Sun Aug 14, 2005 5:56 pm

Thanks Patmac - Its lovely to know more about Dorothy. Poor child, that is a horrible thing to have to grow up with. However she has come through it well. It was also good to have the pauses of her waiting for Hugh as well.

 

#8:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sun Aug 14, 2005 6:49 pm

What a beautiful post. Pat, with so many alternating emotions. How I felt for that little bullied child, but how she bloomed!

Thank you.

 

#9:  Author: Alice, Location: London, England PostPosted: Sun Aug 14, 2005 7:03 pm

Wonderful to read Dorothy's story, thanks Patmac.

 

#10:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! PostPosted: Sun Aug 14, 2005 9:00 pm

Beautiful Patmac - thanks

 

#11:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Sun Aug 14, 2005 10:18 pm

Thanks Patmac! But... I want to know more about Dorothy now! *sneakily feeds bunny under table*

 

#12:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Aug 14, 2005 10:27 pm

oooooh! looking forward to seeing more of this Pat - thank you.

Poor bullied Dorothy - I'm so glad she's found happiness with Hugh Smile

Liz

 

#13:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 2:02 am

Pat, this is great!! Loved the headmistress's surprise at the idea of consulting a child over her own future.... Very Happy

 

#14:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 9:01 am

Thanks Patmac, this looks wonderful.

 

#15:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 9:21 am

Thank you Pat. Lovely to learn a little more about Dorothy and who she is - i look forward to more.

 

#16:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 9:52 am

Wondeful Pat, thanks.

x

 

#17:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 10:04 am

Thant was lovely Pat!

Any chance of some more?

 

#18:  Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 6:50 pm

O, how fantastic!

I don't know whether to hope this is finished soon so that we get more Reg, or hope that this goes on for weeks!

So I'll just send Patmac some non-specific bunny food and let the bunnies choose - after all, they will anyway!

(Please note extreme excitement - three exclamation marks in three sentences.)

 

#19:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 7:29 pm

They walked back to the house, arm in arm, each conscious only of the other and feeling they would burst if they spoke. As soon as they were in the house, they were embracing again, laughing with joy and kissing.

“A whole week together!” cried Dorothy as they broke apart, both a little embarrassed by the depth of passion they had felt. “Take your case up and I’ll put the kettle on.”

Soon they were sitting on the sofa, his arm round her and her head on his shoulder.

“What time will your Mum be home?” asked Hugh.

“Not till six o’clock.” Dorothy replied, sitting up suddenly. “Oh, Hugh! We haven’t heard from Dad for four weeks. You know how regular he is with his letters. Mum is worried out of her mind and, although I’m trying to stay calm about it, I’m getting really worried as well.”

Hugh looked disturbed. “Four weeks is a long while but I gather it is pretty chaotic over there. They say there are two million troops in Normandy and they are pushing forward on several fronts. It’s quite possible his letters have been held up somewhere. Have you heard from Tom?”

“Yes, but he’s based over here. He sends a note every week, regular as clockwork, just like Dad. Mum is getting in a right state, Hugh.”

“I’ll try and reassure her tonight. You know they would have sent a telegram if anything had happened. The army is really good about that. I honestly think he is all right if you haven’t heard anything. Come on, Love. Try not to think the worst.”

Dorothy took her glasses off to wipe her eyes. “I’m sorry. I know you’re right but I’ve just been saying the same things to Mum for the past three weeks and I needed someone else to say it to me.”

“Don’t be sorry. Of course you are worried. Come here and have a cuddle.”

Dorothy snuggled up to him and gave a shaky laugh. “I feel better for telling you. You are such a comfort, darling. Let’s talk about something else. We’re going to see my Godmother tomorrow. You’ll love her.”

“From what you’ve told me, I’m sure I will. She sounds what Mike would call a ‘Feisty Broad’.”

Dorothy wrinkled her nose. “Such language!” she said, trying to keep a straight face. “The trouble is, she’d probably be rather flattered if you called her that.”

They both laughed.

“I promise I’ll be good. She does sound fun though.”

Dorothy nodded. “She is. She’s the first person I told about us, before I even told Mum.”

“What did she say?” asked Hugh, curiously.

“Follow your heart, girl, but take your time.”

“Now I’m sure I’ll love her. What else have you planned?”

“If it stays nice like this, I thought we could go to Roundhay Park. It’s not that far and we can get the tram part way. Then I wondered about taking the train up to Ilkley. We could walk up to the Cow and Calf Rocks, if it’s not too far for you.”

“You’ll be surprised how far I can walk now. Paul set up a regime of exercises to strengthen the leg and it has really worked. I went most of the way up to the tops last weekend and he is sure I’ll make it right up before Christmas.”

“That’s great! I noticed you weren’t limping nearly as much as you did when I first met you, but I didn’t like to say.”

Hugh dropped a kiss on the top of her head. “You can say anything you like, dear. I don’t think I would have the motivation but for meeting you. I’ve got something to live for now.”

Dorothy looked up at the clock. “I’d better get the dinner on. Mum will be home soon. It’s all ready to pop in the oven. I’ll be back in a minute.”

When Mrs Hatcherd arrived home, the first thing she asked Dorothy was if a letter had arrived and on hearing that it hadn’t, her face fell. She recovered herself quickly and said no more, welcoming Hugh warmly, but he could tell that she was feeling the strain.

During the evening, Hugh reassured her as best he could but his words rang hollowly in his ears and, although she seemed to accept what he said, Hugh knew that nothing short of positive news would ease her mind.

*

The next morning, Dorothy and Hugh accompanied Mrs Hatcherd into work. Dorothy was dealing with the paperwork for the business and needed to do some bookkeeping so Hugh volunteered to go in and attend to any odd jobs which needed doing. There was plenty to do, he discovered. He discovered a dripping tap in the cloakroom, a loose door handle and numerous other odds and ends which kept him busy most of the morning.

After lunch, he and Dorothy returned home to change and then catch the bus out to Bramhope for their visit to Aunt Gertrude.

As they walked up the road, Hugh whistled in surprise. “These are mansions, Dorothy. I know you said she lives in a large house but these are enormous.”

They turned in at a wide drive and walked up to a large stone house with wide bay windows each side of an imposing door. Aunt Gertrude was watching for them and arrived at the door before they had a chance to ring the bell.

She kissed Dorothy and Hugh found himself subjected to an all encompassing perusal which made him think, as he said later, that he would be described to the police very accurately if he fell foul of this woman.

Aunt Gertrude was not very tall, but her erect carriage made her look imposing. She wore her grey hair shingled. To Hugh’s surprise, she was wearing breeches and a serviceable shirt topped by a leather jerkin whose many pockets contained small gardening tools. A length of green twine trailed from one pocket and she seemed totally unaware that she had some small twigs entangled in her hair.

Hugh found his hand shaken firmly and he followed them into the house. Despite Dorothy’s description, he was unprepared for his first sight of the entrance hall. Every wall was hung with oil paintings and the marble floor was strewn with beautiful Persian rugs. A large table stood to one side with two magnificent Chinese vases displayed on it. Aunt Gertrude led the way through to the back of the house and they entered a large kitchen.

“I’m sorry I didn’t get changed but I was working in the garden and completely forgot the time. I’ve no gardener now and I used to have two so it keeps me busy. I don’t see why we should let things go just because there’s a war on. I can’t travel till this dratted war is over so I’m making the most of time in the garden. I’ve put a lot of it down to vegetables and fruit. Far more than I need, but there’s always someone glad of them.

I’ve got some sheep from the farm up the road grazing in the orchard, which keeps the grass down but some of my plants are quite rare and goodness knows how I would ever replace them if they died. I’m quite proud of myself for I’ve learnt a lot about plants and am even taking my own cuttings now.

I did borrow a goat to keep what’s left of the lawn short but it managed to pull up it’s stake and ate my prize chrysanthemums so it had to go. I thought we would have tea on the terrace. Oh, dear! I haven’t made the sandwiches yet.”

“Let me do that while you make a pot of tea.” Offered Dorothy, who was obviously used to this kind of confusion when she visited.

“Sit down, young man.” Commanded Aunt Gertrude. “You’ll not get to heaven any quicker for standing when you can sit.”

Hugh grinned at her and sat down. “What makes you think I’m on my way to heaven anyway?” he retorted, liking her more by the minute.

He watched as she took almost transparent bone china cups and saucers from a cupboard and a matching teapot. Looking round, he could see that, despite her apparent absentmindedness, everything was clean and tidy and even the windows shone.

Dorothy had told him that she had previously had a staff of three in the house and now managed on her own. His respect for the this indomitable lady grew. He judged her to be nearer sixty than fifty, though it was difficult to tell.

Once they were all seated on the terrace in the shade, Hugh found himself the object of her scrutiny again.

“Tell me all about yourself, Mr Douglas.” Aunt Gertrude demanded.

Dorothy winked at Hugh as he made haste to swallow a mouthful of sandwich.

“Well, first of all I’d be more comfortable if you called me Hugh.” He began. “We’re going to be related eventually, so we may as well start now. I’m from London – Canning Town, actually, down by the docks. My Dad worked on the docks but he died when I was little. My Mum worked as a seamstress at a clothing factory. I got a scholarship to Grammar School and then went to University.” He shrugged, “I’d just graduated when the war came along.”

“RAF?”

“Yes Spitfires.”

“Did you end up at East Grinstead?”

Hugh looked surprised. “Yes. Do you know it?”

“A friend’s husband was there a couple of years ago. I went with her to visit him once.” She looked a little embarrassed. “I’m afraid I couldn’t cope with going again.”

“A lot of people couldn’t. Even some of the wives and mothers couldn’t cope.”

“Did your mother visit?”

There was a slight pause and then Hugh swallowed and said. “She was killed by a bomb earlier that year. A direct hit on our house.”

Dorothy reached across and took Hugh’s hand and squeezed it.

Hugh smiled at her. “It’s all right. Your Aunt didn’t know.”

“I’m sorry, Hugh.” Said Aunt Gertrude. “I really didn’t realise that. I didn’t mean to open old wounds.”

Hugh smiled at her. “You weren’t to know. Anyway, I’m now a Junior Master at Polgarth now, as Dorothy has probably told you. I’m enjoying it and am hoping to stay there.”

Aunt Gertrude smiled. “Yes I did know that. I checked you out with one of the Governors who is a friend. He says you have some good ideas and I gather you’ve already shaken them up. Good thing, too. As Boys Public Schools go, it’s a good one but they do need dragging into the twentieth century.”

Dorothy looked indignant. “Really, Aunt! Checking up on him as if he was applying for a job!”

Hugh laughed heartily. “Don’t be cross, Dorothy. Your Aunt is only looking out for your welfare.” He turned to Aunt Gertrude.

“I assume you mean Sir Julian? He’s the only governor I’ve met and if you’re a friend of his then you pass my test! He’s really shrewd and I like him.”

“Yes. Julian is extremely shrewd and has a wicked sense of humour. You’re quite right Hugh. This girl is too precious to me to take anything on trust. Anyway, it’s your turn now. As you so rightly say, we’re going to be related so what do you want to know?”

Hugh’s one eye twinkled. “A potted history?” he suggested.

“All right! I was born Gertrude Hatcherd, my father was Dorothy’s Grandfather’s brother. I was a rebel from the start. Young Victorian ladies were supposed to like needlework and speak when they were spoken to. We didn’t go to school but had a governess who taught us piano and wishy washy watercolours. I would rather have been a boy, I suppose. My brothers went to school and I used to steal their old textbooks and try to learn Maths and Latin that way. As you can imagine, my education was a little patchy.

I left home when I was twenty five to escape the perpetual attempts to marry me off to some eligible chinless young man who would bore me to tears in a week. I had sneaked off to typing classes and I got a job in Manchester as a typist at an Accountants office. I was in appalling lodgings but I was able to get to the Art Galleries and I enrolled at an Institute for evening classes in various subjects so I was happy.

I met Hubert in an Art Gallery. I was carrying a great big book I’d got out of the library and was trying to read the history of each painting as I came to it. I was juggling the book and my handbag and I dropped the handbag. Everything went rolling across the floor and I was mortified. I put the book in the corner of the room on a chair and was grovelling round on the floor for my belongings when someone dangled my keys in front of me. I looked up and saw this older gentleman standing and looking highly amused.”

She paused and laughed. “No, if I’m honest I saw this elderly gentleman. He had a twinkle in his eye and a kind smile on his face and he bowed to me, as if there was nothing unusual in meeting a young woman on her hands and knees in the middle of an Art Gallery. I looked round and there was no one else in the room, which made me feel a bit better.

To cut a long story short, once I had recovered my belongings, we got talking and he knew so much about the paintings and told me about them so simply that, before I knew it, I was asking him questions and he was answering them and it was as if I was talking to an old friend. We were there for ages, till closing time in fact, and we arranged to meet again the next week.

To cut a long story short, it became a regular meeting and a few weeks later, we met for tea in a nearby restaurant before going on to the Gallery and it sort of escalated from there.”

Dorothy and Hugh were enthralled.

“Why did the family object so much?” asked Dorothy.

“He had been divorced about twenty years before. His first wife had met someone else and left him. Also, he was about forty years older than me. We both knew we wouldn’t have much time together but I was quite prepared to risk that. I could never have married anyone else. I truly loved him. I didn’t know he was rich till I’d accepted his proposal. I’d have married him anyway.

We had two glorious years. We didn’t care that we couldn’t go out in society. He wasn’t accepted as a divorced man and I was labelled a gold digger. We travelled around Europe and he showed me all the great sites and Galleries. He made sure I knew how to manage money and saw to it that I would have good professional advisors. I think he knew he wouldn’t make old bones. The last thing he said to me was that they were the two happiest years of his life.”

There was silence for a few moments and then Dorothy, with tears in her eyes, rose and went across to hug her Godmother. Her Aunt clung to her for a moment and then gently disentangled herself from Dorothy’s arms.

“I don’t need sympathy, dear. I did what I wanted to do and I don’t regret it. If you are as happy as I was, you’ll do well. Now,” she added briskly. “Tell me your plans.”

“I’ve got to make my way a bit before we can get married.” Said Hugh. “At present, I’m on a year’s trial at Polgarth. I need a permanent post and some money behind me before we can marry. Dorothy has a year to do at college to qualify as a teacher and she’s going to teach for a year before we get married. She wants to do that and I want it for her.”

Aunt Gertrude nodded and glanced at Dorothy’s hand. “You’re not engaged yet?”

“No. We’ll wait till Dorothy’s Dad comes home. I want to do it properly.”

She shrugged. “That’s your decision, though you could write to him.”

“We’d rather not. Dorothy and her father are close and I wouldn’t want to deprive him of seeing her engaged. It won’t be a big affair anyway. We neither of us want or need that. We already know what is in our hearts.”

Aunt Gertrude looked at them approvingly. “Not that you need my approval, Dorothy, but you’ve got it anyway. Now let’s clear away the tea things.”

They rose and carried the china into the kitchen.

“I’ll wash up, Aunt.” Said Dorothy and you can show Hugh all your treasures. I’ve told him about them but he’d love to see them for himself.”

Aunt Gertrude took Hugh round the house and he was awestruck, not just by the beautiful paintings and ceramics, but by her knowledge. When they reached the Library, he wandered round, completely forgetting his hostess, as he examined the range of books.

Eventually, he recalled himself and, turning, saw her sitting on a chair and smiling at him.

“I’m sorry. I think I feel about books as you do about Art.”

“I can see that! You’re welcome to come back any time and spend as long as you like in here.”

She led the way from the room and opened another door. Hugh found himself in a large bedroom with bay windows standing open and revealing a magnificent view of the surrounding countryside. After the opulence of the rest of the house, it was austere and his eyes were drawn to an exquisite statue of a nymph standing on a small table opposite the bed.

Aunt Gertrude saw his look and smiled. “She’s my favourite. She’s the last thing I see at night and the first thing I see in the morning.”

While Hugh was admiring the statue, she swiftly crossed to her nightstand and took a small box out of the drawer.

Sitting on the edge of the bed, she said, “Hugh.”

He turned and saw she looked more unsure than he had seen her before.

“I don’t want to upset you or make you feel embarrassed but would you like this as an engagement ring for Dorothy? It was my engagement ring from Hubert and it was his Mother’s.”

She opened the box and Hugh saw a simple gold ring with one enormous diamond set in it, surrounded by an intricate design made of sapphires.

He sat on the bed beside her and looked from the ring to her questioning face.

“She’s always loved it since she was a little girl. I never wear it now, my knuckles are too swollen.”

She spread her hands and he saw that her joints were indeed swollen by rheumatism.

Hugh took a deep breath. They had discussed rings and agreed that a simple ring would suffice, and though he would have liked to give her the best money could buy, they were both aware that money would not stretch to extravagance.

He put his arm round her shoulders and kissed her reverently on the cheek.

“I’d be proud for her to wear it, but on one condition.”

“I’ll not buy a pig in a poke, young man. What would that be?”

Hugh grinned at her. “I’ve no relatives at all. May I call you Aunt Gertrude?”

She threw a mock punch at his arm and laughed. “I’d be proud to call you nephew.”

 

#20:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 7:39 pm

Awwwwwww!!!!!

That was LUFFLY!!!!

 

#21:  Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex PostPosted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 8:53 pm

Thank you Patmac!
patmac wrote:

“Did you end up at East Grinstead?”

I live here! I do I do!! How exciting!! Very HappyVery HappyVery HappyVery Happy My town is famous!

 

#22:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 8:54 pm

Agreed, wonderful history - and I love Aunt Gertrude!

 

#23:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 9:26 pm

Wow. I can really see Dorothy in this. It was sad to see how the others treated Dorothy at her first school but it was interesting to know how she ended up going to the CS.

 

#24:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 9:27 pm

patmac wrote:
“Sit down, young man.” Commanded Aunt Gertrude. “You’ll not get to heaven any quicker for standing when you can sit.”

Hugh grinned at her and sat down. “What makes you think I’m on my way to heaven anyway?” he retorted, liking her more by the minute.


Laughing

Aunt Gertrude is wonderful! I hope we'll be seeing a lot more of her as Dorothy's story progresses (hint hint!)

 

#25:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 10:02 pm

Oh bless!! Have a huge soppy smile on my face now.

Wibbling a little about Dorothy's dad though.

Thanks Pat

 

#26:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Aug 15, 2005 11:28 pm

Thanks PatMac - Aunt Gertrude is wonderful!

Liz

 

#27:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 9:14 am

Wonderful. Thank you very much.

 

#28:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 9:28 am

That was gorgeous, Pat, thank you Very Happy

 

#29:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 10:15 am

Such a lovely happy time in the middle of the war, it was heartwarming.

 

#30:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 1:42 pm

What an amazing person Aunt Gertrude is - how sweet of her to offer Hugh (or rather Dorothy) the ring! That was lovely!

 

#31:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 3:57 pm

There was a programme on television on saturday about the Guinea pig club, and I meant to record it (I was working) and I forgot!!!! Sad

Anyway, more soon please PatMac!

 

#32:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 5:28 pm

The days slipped away too quickly. Every waking moment was a delight to them both. They went to Ilkley and sat on the rocks in the warm sunshine, content to watch the view, silently, each almost achingly aware of the love they felt. They walked in Roundhay Park, his arm round her shoulders, her arm round his waist, exploring each other’s views on everything from religion to fashion.

Everything took on a glow. Even weeding the allotment was a delight, because they did it together.

The only worry was the lack of a letter from Dorothy’s father. Mrs Hatcherd, though she tried to remain cheerful, was clearly losing hope. She found it difficult to eat and was obviously not sleeping. The news from Normandy was sporadic and patchy.

On the Sunday morning, Hugh woke very early and felt sufficiently at home now to get up, slip his dressing gown on and go down to make a cup of tea. He took it into the sitting room with a book and opened the curtains. The sun streamed in and he settled with his book and his tea.

He heard footsteps coming up the street and took no notice. Factories were working seven days a week. It was just someone coming home from night shift. When the footsteps stopped, he looked up and saw a tall gaunt man in Army Uniform looking at the house. He was wearing a knapsack and Hugh realised that one sleeve was rolled up and pinned just below the shoulder.

“Poor bloke.” He thought and then leapt to his feet, his book falling to the carpet as he realised who it must be. He rushed to the front door and flung it open, just as the man started up the steps.

The man stopped, stunned at the sight of a stranger, clad in pyjamas and a dressing gown opening the door. Then a broad smile creased his face.

“I’m just hoping you are Hugh Douglas!” he said. “If it’s anyone else, I’ve got the wrong house!”

“If you’re anyone other than Mr Hatcherd, you have!” Hugh replied. “We’ve been so worried. I’m staying for a week’s holiday.”

“I’m glad you are up early. I’d just realised that arriving at this hour could be a mistake.”

The two men went into the sitting room and Hugh closed the door. Mr Hatcherd sank into a chair and looked round contentedly.

“Home!” he said and closed his eyes for a moment. Hugh sat down and waited.

He opened his eyes and Hugh realised where Dorothy’s colouring came from. A pair of grey green eyes in a sallow face looked at him appraisingly.

“You say you’ve all been worried. Didn’t they get my letters?”

Hugh shook his head. “None for nearly five weeks. Your wife and Dorothy have been fairly frantic. They’ll be so pleased to see you.”

Mr Hatcherd grimaced. “I’d hoped to prepare them for this.” He gestured with his one hand to the empty sleeve. “It’s going to be a nasty shock to both of them.”

“Yes, they’ll be shocked but they were imagining worse. It might even be better this way. They’ll be so relieved this will seem a minor problem to them. Shall I get you a cup of tea? There’s some in the pot.”

“Yes, please. A cup of real tea has been a recurring dream for the past four weeks. Hospitals serve it all milky and weak.”

Hugh brought him a cup of tea and the sugar bowl. “Sorry, I don’t know how you take it.”

Mr Hatcherd drank deeply. “That’s better.” He said with a sigh. “It’s still only seven o’clock. “ He looked uncertain for a moment. “Should I go up and wake Anne or stay here till she comes down.”

Hugh remembered his own uncertainty at facing people after his injuries. “I think you should go up. You’re no less her husband for only having one arm and she’s just going to be glad you are alive.”

“You’re right. It’s just ….” His voice trailed off uncertainly.

“It takes time to adjust.” Hugh offered, gently. “Don’t be hard on yourself.”

Slowly, Mr Hatcherd left the room and Hugh sat back and closed his eye.

He had no doubt that Mrs Hatcherd would be able to cope and had a momentary pang of envy that Mr Hatcherd would have a family to help him through the first adjustment. He wondered if he ought to leave today and let the Hatcherds have time alone. He’d have to see how that worked out. He’d better offer, anyway.

After a few minutes, he went up to his room to get dressed and then went down again. He sat in the kitchen, feeling relief that his future father-in-law was safe. It was about twenty minutes later that he heard a bedroom door open and two pairs of footsteps crossed the landing. Another door opened, there was a pause and then he heard Dorothy’s shriek of delight as she saw her father.

There was a babble of conversation and then Hugh heard footsteps coming down the stairs. He quickly put the kettle on and was just putting out tea cups and saucers when Mrs Hatcherd came into the room, her face glowing.

“Thank you, Hugh. I think we all need a cup of tea. I’m so glad you were up early. I think he would have sat on the doorstep till we got up. He’s gone to have a bath.” She looked at him and spoke in a low voice. “How do you think he is? He seems so tired and oh, his poor arm.” Her face crumpled and Hugh put his arm round her shoulder and led her to a chair. Fishing his clean hanky out of his pocket, he pressed it into her hand and waited till she recovered her composure.

Eventually she gave a final sniff and looked up at him. “Do I talk about it or ignore it? I want to do what is best for him.”

“He’ll be fine eventually. He’ll need feeding up and plenty of rest but don’t treat him like an invalid. He’s going to need to feel he can do things for himself. That’s the difficult bit. You’re going to see him struggling to do things and want to take over.”

Seeing she was hanging on his every word, he continued. “I can only talk from my own experience but it was the careful way people looked away and found it embarrassing to acknowledge the problem that upset me and made me feel lonely.”

The kettle was boiling and he made the tea. While it brewed, he sat opposite her and smiled. “You’ll manage. You love him and he’s here. The rest will come gradually.” He continued hesitantly. “Would you like me to go today? He needn’t know why. For all he knows that could have been the plan anyway. It might be easier to adjust with just the three of you.”

Mrs Hatcherd looked at him in amazement. “No, definitely not. Unless you want to, of course. You’re family and he’ll want to get to know you. Bless you, Hugh. It’s just like you to think of that.”

Hugh got up and poured the tea, not knowing quite what to say. She had said he was family. That was almost too much to cope with. He stood for a moment looking out of the window. ‘Family’, such a little word but with a world of meaning. Taking a deep breath, he turned and passed her a cup of tea and smiled gratefully.

 

#33:  Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex PostPosted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 5:46 pm

Thank you Patmac Very Happy

 

#34:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 6:06 pm

Thank you Pat!!!

So glad Dorothy's dad is safe!

 

#35:  Author: Caroline OSullivan, Location: Reading, Berkshire, UK PostPosted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 6:33 pm

Thank you Patmac Very Happy Very Happy This is very shiny.

So glad Mr Hatcherd is still alive. Aunt Gertrude is wonderful Laughing

 

#36:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 6:46 pm

Awww, that was so lovely of Dorothey's mum - Family - Hugh has somewhere he belongs.

Thanks Pat.

 

#37:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 6:55 pm

I'm so glad Dorothy's Dad is safely home and Dorothy's wife accepts Hugh as part of the family. I hope Dorothy's brother is safe as well.

 

#38:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 8:25 pm

Thank you Patmac! This is truly luffly, I'm so glad Hugh can feel he has a proper family again.

 

#39:  Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK PostPosted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 9:41 pm

Village Boy's Tale - the drabble that launched a thousand spin-offs.

I hope your PBs continue to breed like....er....rabbits, Patmac.

 

#40:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire PostPosted: Tue Aug 16, 2005 11:21 pm

Just caught up with the whole of this, Patmac, and it is fantastic!

Thankyou Very Happy

 

#41:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Aug 17, 2005 8:33 am

Luffly Hugh Very Happy

Thanks Pat

 

#42:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Wed Aug 17, 2005 9:19 am

Lovely. So please Mr Hatcherd is safe and home and lovely that Mrs Hatcherd accepts Hugh as family.

Thank you Pat.

 

#43:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Aug 17, 2005 9:33 am

Lovely, Pat. Thanks.

 

#44:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Wed Aug 17, 2005 10:08 am

I think I'm glad that Hugh was there to help them all out. Especially as he has had some experiance of this kind of situation. I can see them all relying on him to give them a bit of a helping hand over the first little while. Thanks Pat

 

#45:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Aug 17, 2005 6:22 pm

The account of the last days in Tyrol included in this came largely from 'The Chaletian Refugee' which is a drabble by Nicola and can be found in the Archives. Thanks, Nicola.


After breakfast, Dorothy and Hugh went for a walk while her parents spent some quiet time together. Hand in hand, they walked the quiet streets and Dorothy pointed out the various places she had known as a child. They turned a corner and there was a large two storey stone building. There were two doors, one at each end of the building In carved stone above the doorways were inscribed ‘Girls’ and ‘Boys’. Dorothy stood and looked at it in silence for a moment.

“Is that where you went to school?”

“Yes. I hated it till the last year.” They stood by the gates for a few minutes and then walked on as she told him of her early years and then of the difference made by Mrs Maloney and her encouragement.

Hugh looked amazed. “I’d never have guessed it. You seem so confident now.”

“That was largely the Chalet School. I’ll tell you about that one day, but it’s a long story.”

They walked on and came to a small park and went in and sat on a bench.

“I’m so glad Dad is safe. When we didn’t hear, at first I was a bit impatient with Mum and then I thought how I would have felt if you were missing. That’s when I started to panic. Is it awful of me to be glad he’s badly enough hurt that he can’t go back again?”

“I don’t think so. He’s done his bit and paid a high price. He deserves to stay home now. He looked older than I expected. He must have been over age for conscription if he’s been in the army since the war started. I can’t remember when conscription went up to fifty one but it was certainly only young men when it started.”

“He served in World War I and married Mum when he was on leave. He was even away when Tom was born. When the Nazis seized power in Germany, he joined the Territorials. He used to argue with Uncle Jack about what was going to happen. Uncle Jack thought we should keep out of Europe’s problems. Dad said we’d be sucked in whether we liked it or not.

He volunteered right at the start. It’s the only time I remember Mum and Dad having a real row. Mum kept saying that he was too old to fight and he should leave it to the younger men.”

“What did you think?”

Dorothy shuddered. “I’d seen them, Hugh, the Nazis I mean, over in Austria. I’ll never forget when we came back from Half Term. It was late March 1938. We British girls had been to Innsbruck with Miss Norman. We’d had such a lovely time.

We had no idea anything was going to happen. I think Dr Jem must have got some information. That’s Sir James Russell, you remember, he came to Polgarth when Canning was hurt.”

Hugh nodded.

“Anyway, we were all bundled up into coaches and went right up to the Sonnalpe where the San was. The school had taken over a huge Hotel and moved up, lock stock and barrel during half term.

When we got there, Madame was there – she’s Lady Russell now but she founded the school. I hardly knew her because she’d given up teaching when she got married. She gave the Welcome speech that Miss Annersley usually gave.

It was really weird. She went on about being brave. I think a few of us older ones caught on but the younger ones just thought it was just a pep talk and took no more notice.

Then there was the plebiscite and, in March, the Germans marched in. They didn’t bother us at first, we were well away from any towns, though the German and Austrian girls had to go home. That was really upsetting. I lost some of my best friends then. I still don’t know what happened to them.

I was staying for Easter. It was a short holiday and not worth the journey home. The school had arranged some Italian conversation sessions for me with an Italian Doctor at the San. My French and German were fine after two years of speaking them in and out of school but there wasn’t the chance to practice Italian in quite the same way. I stayed with Dr Jem and Madame. They did their best, but I caught on that Dr Jem was worried.

When the girls came back, we’d lost about a third of the school. We knew then, I think, that we would be leaving soon. The Nazis were everywhere. I still don’t understand why they were so bothered by the San and the School.

Hilary’s theory is that they wanted all foreigners out of the country so word wouldn’t get out of what was really happening. Hitler didn’t want trouble with England and America then. He just wanted us out.

Dad wrote to send for me to go home but by then it was too late. Hilary told us at Christmas about what happened to them when they went down into Spartz that day and never came back. Then there was a mad rush then to get us all out.”

She shivered. “There were Gestapo everywhere. The coaches were stopped and all our passports examined. They knew we had Austrian and German girls in the school. Then the same at the Railway Station. They were even on the train. They were so arrogant. I think I realised then that they thought they could take over the world.

I went home and took my Higher at Leeds High School and then went off to college. The school didn’t open for another year and that was too late for me. They went to Guernsey first and then had to escape again.

I’m afraid I supported Dad in the argument about joining up. I wanted to join up myself but Dad said I should finish college first. In the end, I didn’t and came home to help Mum. They said it was a reserved occupation because we were doing the work that Dad and Uncle Jack and Tom did. I think that’s partly why I was so worried when we didn’t hear. I felt it should have been me who went.”

She was silent for a few minutes and Hugh held her close and stroked her hair while she recovered. She turned to kiss him and then realised he had not felt it for she had kissed the scarred side of his face. It was the last straw. Poor Hugh and poor Dad. Suddenly the thought of all the suffering one man’s ambitions had caused seemed to press down on her and it took a moment to recover.

She sat up and Hugh turned to look at her. Taking his face between her hands, she kissed him. “I love you.” She said simply. “Let’s go home.”

*

When they got home, Mr Hatcherd had gone to bed, having travelled all night and Dorothy’s Mum had prepared sandwiches for lunch, which they ate in the kitchen, while talking quietly.

“I hate to ask this, Dorothy, but would you mind getting a chicken for dinner.”

Hugh looked puzzled and Dorothy giggled. “What she means is will I kill one.” She explained. “Poor Mum is too soft hearted to do that. You can come with me and pick some beans. There should be some carrots just about big enough as well. They’ll be thinnings really but we can cook them whole.”

Hugh looked at her with renewed respect. “I knew you kept chickens but I didn’t realise you actually killed them yourself.”

“I don’t mind now we don’t give them names. Now that was a mistake.”

“You do realise that I disgraced myself by thinking carrots were weeds and hoeing out a whole row up at the school, don’t you? It looked so neat with all the bare earth and I was so proud of myself!”

“Don’t worry. I’ll show you what to do.”

Mrs Hatcherd looked at them. “I know you’re due to leave on Tuesday, Hugh, but could you stay a few more days?”

“I’d love to, but are you sure?”

“Quite sure. You’ve a better idea of what he’s going through than we have. You may be able to help him if you will.”

“I’ll do anything to help that I can but I still think your acceptance will be his greatest help.”

“I’ve another reason. I know you wanted to wait to get engaged till Albert was demobbed. Well it’s happened now. Why wait?”

“Do you think he’s really up to that?”

“He was asking why you weren’t already and when I told him you were waiting for him to come home, he was quite moved. I think he’d like it.”

Dorothy and Hugh looked at one another. Dorothy nodded.

“We never planned to make it a big do anyway. We can go and find a ring tomorrow. If you really think Dad would like it, we’d both love to do it now,”

Hugh looked a little disturbed and Dorothy looked at him with concern.

“I hadn’t told you yet because I thought it would be a long while before your Dad got home but we’ve already got a ring. If you don’t like it, we can get another one. I should have asked you I suppose but she was so sure you would like it.”

“What on earth are you talking about. Who’s ‘she’?”

“Aunt Gertrude. She gave me her engagement ring for you. It originally belonged to Hubert’s mother. She wanted you to have it.”

Dorothy and her mother gazed at him in amazement and Hugh looked a little defensive.

“I’m sorry if you don’t like the idea. I think I was still in shock after she told us her story about how she met Hubert and she caught me by surprise.”

“She told you all about her and Hubert?” Dorothy’s mother sounded amazed. “She never even told Albert how she met him.”

“Well, I asked her for a potted history. She asked for mine, so I thought it only fair.”

“I’ve been admiring that ring when I was a little girl. I used to try it on and she used to say I wasn’t big enough yet. Oh, Mum. Can we invite Aunt Gertrude over for a little party. We’ll tell you later about how she met Hubert so we can tell Dad as well at the same time.”

“Tell me what?” came a voice from the doorway.

“Albert! You’ll never guess! Hugh persuaded Gertrude to tell her how she met Hubert.”

Dorothy’s father came into the kitchen and sat down.

“You mean you’ve got that story out of her in one visit and I’ve not been told in thirty years? You’ve obviously got a way with the women, lad.”

Hugh flushed. “All I did was ask! I didn’t realise it was such a mystery.” He hesitated and then rushed on. “This isn’t how I planned it but nothing today is as any of us planned. I love your daughter and I would like to ask her to be my wife. Do I have your permission?”

Albert looked pleased but he turned to Dorothy before replying. “Do you really love him?”

“Yes, I really do.” She said firmly.

“Then, yes, Hugh, but take her out of the house to ask her or I’ll end up in tears. I think I’ve had all the emotion I can take for one day.”

Hugh grinned at his future father-in-law. “We’re off to kill a chicken for dinner. I’ll ask her while we’re out.”

They all laughed and Hugh went upstairs to change into old clothes for the afternoon and secreted the ring in his pocket, while Dorothy changed into breeches and tied a headscarf round her hair to keep it out of the way.

She looked at herself in the mirror and laughed. “We’re starting as we mean to go on. Working together. I’m so happy, I could burst.”

She ran down the stairs and stuck her head round the kitchen door while Hugh waited impatiently at the front door. “We’re off then. We’ll be back with a chicken, carrots, beans, potatoes and a ring!”

Then she ran to the door and, hand in hand they set off down the street to the allotment.

They arrived and went to the Hatcherd’s plot. In the corner stood a small wooden shed. Dorothy fished a key out of her pocket and opened the padlock and opened the door. To Hugh’s surprise the interior was neat with brightly shining tools hanging on hooks along one side and a wooden bench under a window on the other. Plant pots and various bags of fertiliser stood in neat rows under the bench.

There was a small spirit stove with an enamel kettle sitting on the bench and a shelf at one end with a tin of tea, two slightly chipped mugs and a spoon above it. A battered kitchen chair with a gingham cushion stood at the far end.

“This was Dad’s retreat before he went away. I’ve tried to keep it as he had it. Before the war, the allotment was a man’s place. All the men came down here in the evening. I think they spent a fair bit of time putting the world right. I used to come with him when I was little and I had a little patch where I tried to grow things. I never thought I would have to take the whole thing over myself.”

“Sit down.” Said Hugh, hoarsely. “I can’t think of a better place to propose to you.”

Dorothy sat on the chair and Hugh went down on one knee in front of her.

“Dorothy, will you be my partner through life? Will you marry me and let me help you as you help me. I promise I will do my best to make you happy.”

Dorothy’s eyes filled with tears. “I want to be your partner and wife more than anything in the world. I promise I will do my best to make you happy, too.”

Hugh fumbled in his pocket and pulled out a small leather box. Opening it, he took out Aunt Gertrude’s ring and took it from the box. Dorothy held out her left hand and he slid it on her finger. For a moment, they both looked at it as the sun set the diamond afire. Then Hugh dropped the box and leaned forward, his face buried in her lap. His shoulders shook as the tears came and she stroked his hair gently.

Eventually he looked up. “I never thought I could be this happy.” He said.

She bent and kissed him, tears streaming down her cheeks. “Neither did I”

 

#46:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Wed Aug 17, 2005 6:33 pm

Oh what a lovely post. Thanks Pat. How nice it is that things are working out like that. And I'm very interested to hear the story about the party with Aunt Gertrude, especially since she has told Hugh things which she didnt mention to the other family members - not for years of coatching. Now that really is a trick.

 

#47:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Aug 17, 2005 7:00 pm

Smile Crying or Very sad Smile

Thanks Pat - beautiful

Liz

 

#48:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Aug 17, 2005 8:10 pm

Awww, that was so right.

Thanks Pat.

 

#49:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Wed Aug 17, 2005 9:16 pm

Wow. What a lovely lead up to the engagement and the actual engagement. They make a wonderful couple.

 

#50:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Aug 17, 2005 10:56 pm

Oh bless them!

Thanks Pat. Feeling all snuggly now.

 

#51:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! PostPosted: Wed Aug 17, 2005 11:45 pm

Aww that was lovely thank you.

 

#52:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Thu Aug 18, 2005 12:34 am

Pat, that was wonderful!!! The tone is just so right, all the way through. I can hear them speaking in their own distinct voices, and it never slips. Just marvellous.

 

#53:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Aug 18, 2005 8:52 am

My mascara has run! The proposal was so lovely and as Lesley said, so right. Awwww! Very Happy

Thank you Pat

 

#54:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Aug 18, 2005 9:16 am

Weeping happy tears. What with them and a black keyboard, I can hardly type.

 

#55:  Author: dackel as guest,  PostPosted: Thu Aug 18, 2005 10:56 am

Awwww! That was so lovely, happy rears here, too. And I'm in the public library, how embarrassing!

 

#56:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Thu Aug 18, 2005 12:01 pm

Beautiful and so right. Thank you Pat.

 

#57:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Aug 18, 2005 7:47 pm

Eventually, they parted and Dorothy put the ring back in it’s box.

“It means more than any bought ring but it’s too precious to wear all the time. I’d be scared to wear it everyday.” She said wistfully.

“What if we bought a gold chain and you could wear it round your neck when you are working?”

“Would you mind? I really love this and I love the way it means something more than one we just bought from a jeweller but it’s really a rich woman’s ring. It doesn’t exactly go with digging an allotment.”

“We’ll get one tomorrow morning. Now come on and show me how to wring a chicken’s neck. I’ll try not to faint.”

Dorothy laughed. “Then I’ll show you how to pluck and draw it.”

“Plucking I understand, that’s taking it’s feathers off but what’s drawing?”

“Taking it’s insides out.”

Hugh gulped. “Oh. I’m not sure I’m ready for that yet.”

She patted his cheek. “You can peel the potatoes then.”

“It’s a deal. That I can manage.”

They went down to the chicken run, Dorothy a basket over her arm.

“We need to collect the eggs first. I forgot with all the excitement this morning.”

Hugh watched as she reached under various hens, nearly always coming out with an egg in her hand. When she had finished, she handed the basket to Hugh and chose a chicken for dinner.

Hugh put his hand on the eggs in the basket. They were warm. He was suddenly distracted as Dorothy grabbed a large hen and tucked her under her arm so she could not extend her wings.

“Shut the gate after you. I’ll take her up to the shed.”

Hugh followed, carefully shutting the gate to the pen against the squawking chickens who seemed to realise that one of their number was being taken away. “Sorry!” he muttered and then chuckled at the thought that he had apologised to a flock of chickens.

He followed, Dorothy to the shed and was just in time to see her stretch and twist the chicken’s neck. As it’s struggles ceased, she tied the legs together with twine and hung it from a hook inside the shed.

Hugh set the basket of eggs on the bench and applauded Dorothy.

She laughed at him. “Needs must when the Devil drives! You’ll have noticed I brought her up here first. Old Mr Brook who showed me how to do it used to do it right in the pen. I couldn’t cope with the other chickens seeing. Now let me show you how to distinguish carrots from weeds.”

Hugh enjoyed this a lot more. “It’s obvious when it’s explained.” He said, wiping his brow. “At school, someone just said ‘hoe that row ’. So I did!”

They picked beans and dug up potatoes. There was a certain amount of dalliance while they worked but neither lost sight of the need to provide the evening meal.

Dorothy grew in confidence as they worked and she realised, to her joy, that this would be a real partnership. Hugh was very clever and she had been slightly in awe of his intelligence, but now she realised, she knew things he didn’t and he was willing to learn from her as she was from him.

There were other people working on allotments round them and, occasionally someone would come across to pass the time of day but most of the time it was as if they were alone.

*

When they arrived home, there was a slight delay in preparing the food while they showed the engagement ring to Dorothy’s parents, who immediately agreed it was too grand for everyday wear. Dorothy held her hand out and turned it so that the diamond caught the light.

“I wonder how old it is? If Hubert was forty years older than Aunt Gertrude and he died around thirty years ago and it was his mother’s ring, it must be over a hundred years old.”

She took the ring off, reluctantly, and put it carefully back in it’s box.

“If I don’t get the chicken prepared, we’ll have no dinner tonight!”

Mrs Hatcherd would not hear of Hugh doing the vegetables and he guessed she wanted to spend some time with her daughter so he did not press the matter but slipped upstairs to wash his hands and change.

When he came down, he Joined Mr Hatcherd in the sitting room. Mrs Hatcherd had obviously told her husband quite a bit about Hugh, for which he was grateful as he did not have to go through the whole saga again. Inevitably, they discussed the war situation and the progress being made but kept the conversation as light as such a subject could be. Soon the conversation turned to Hugh and Dorothy’s plans for the future.

“We’re keen for her to finish her training and then to go on and teach for a year or so. She’s worked hard to get this far and she deserves to reach her ambition. If she doesn’t, she may regret it later.

We need to save anyway before we can set up house. I’d nothing saved except a few hundred pounds from my army pay. I’m doing better now because I don’t spend much of my salary as I get my keep during term time. My only luxury is books, which is how I met your daughter, of course. We’re thinking it will be a couple of years till the wedding.”

“If it hadn’t been for the war, she’d have finished at college by now. It’s spoiled so many things. I’m glad she’s going to get qualified though.”

“I wouldn’t have met Dorothy but for the war so something good has come out of it.”

“That’s true. We’re both alive as well, even if we are a bit battered. We’ve had our share of luck, I suppose.”

“How did it happen?” Hugh asked. “Don’t tell me if you’d rather not. I know it’s not easy to talk about but I bottled it up too long. I ended up being sent to the psychiatrist, was so depressed. I really felt there was nothing worth living for.”

“I was driving a lorry in a convoy We were taking supplies to the front. We were about ten miles behind the front and the area was supposed to have been cleared. A shell burst right in the middle of us, then there was rifle fire. There was pandemonium. Lorries caught fire and you could hear the screams of men trapped. Our chaps started firing but they were hidden in houses and we couldn’t get them.

We put out a radio call for help but by the time anyone got to us, they’d gone. Just melted away.”

He stopped and Hugh could see he was reliving the experience.

“I don’t remember the medics arriving. I’d passed out by then. When I came to, my arm was gone. I don’t think I want to even think about the next few days. How long was it before the nightmares stopped.”

“When I got to Polgarth and got a new start in life. Mine weren’t about me though. They were about my mother. You know she was killed in an air raid.”

Mr Hatcherd nodded. “I’m lucky. Anne and Dorothy are safe.”

Hugh nearly mentioned Tom and then remembered that he was still in danger so remained silent.

 

#58:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Thu Aug 18, 2005 7:55 pm

I loved Hugh apologising to the chickens! I apologise to my cat all the time but fortunately not for the same reason. Embarassed

I'm glad Hugh and Dorothy's father got a chance to talk and Hugh knows how to peel potatoes.

 

#59:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Thu Aug 18, 2005 8:33 pm

I apologised to a post box the other day; I bumped into something and only when I turned did I realise what it was!

Thanks Pat, this is as lovely as ever.

 

#60:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Aug 18, 2005 8:49 pm

Thanks Pat - also love Hugh apologising to the chickens - a real city boy!

 

#61:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Aug 18, 2005 8:53 pm

I love the way D & H go from such a romantic proposal to something so everyday as killing chickens... well perhaps that's not so everyday, but you know what I mean! It's so clearly a true partnership. Very Happy

 

#62:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Fri Aug 19, 2005 1:08 am

Perhaps he'll try and distract them next time... Mr and Mrs Tweedie, they are not! Very Happy

 

#63:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Fri Aug 19, 2005 1:48 am

Who are Mr and Mrs Tweedie?

Lovely proposal BTW! Much more romantic than "Solid Lump of Comfort"

 

#64:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Aug 19, 2005 7:21 am

Thanks Pat

Liz

 

#65:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Aug 19, 2005 10:47 am

I've just caught up on several pages of this, Pat.

Hugh and Dorothy are so right together, so good for each other. I have laughed and wept with them, and Dorothy's parents, as well.

Thank you so much.

 

#66:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Aug 19, 2005 1:22 pm

Two fab updates, Pat. the proposal was gorgeous, and I love Hugh and the chickens in the next one!! Lovely chat between Hugh and Dorothy's Dad too.

Thanks Very Happy

 

#67:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Fri Aug 19, 2005 2:46 pm

Aww, what a lovely proposal (shame Hugh didn't give Reg any tips!) Thanks Pat!

 

#68:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Fri Aug 19, 2005 4:04 pm

Cath V-P wrote:
Perhaps he'll try and distract them next time... Mr and Mrs Tweedie, they are not! Very Happy


From Chicken Run?!

Thanks PatMac; they're a lovely couple.

 

#69:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sat Aug 20, 2005 6:03 pm

The next morning Dorothy and Hugh went to the phone box.

“Aunt Gertrude, it’s Dorothy. No there’s nothing wrong, in fact everything’s right. Dad’s home. He’s been hurt and ….”

She couldn’t go on and silently handed the phone to Hugh.

“It’s Hugh here. What Dorothy was trying to say is that he is home for good. He’s been discharged. He’s alright but I’m afraid he’s lost his arm.”

“Thank God. Not about his arm, of course. Just that he’s safe. Which one?”

“His right one, I’m afraid.”

“Well that’s not as bad as it might be. He’s left handed.”

“I didn’t know that. We’re phoning to ask you to come to tea on Wednesday. We’re having a double celebration.”

“You asked her then!”

Dorothy grabbed the phone from him.

“Yes he did, the very day Dad arrived. And, oh, Aunt! The ring is perfect and I love that it was yours and Hubert’s mother wore it as well. Thank you so much.”

“I always intended it for you. I was quite worried you’d meet some stuck up twerp who wouldn’t want to give it to you. Yes, I can come. What time?”

“Is three o’clock all right?”

“I’ll be there.” There was a click as Aunt Gertrude put the phone down.

“I didn’t realise your Dad was left handed! I thought he was doing rather well.”

“I don’t suppose any of us thought to say. It seems almost impossible that you hadn’t met him before.” She giggled.

“What’s funny.”

“Aunt Gertrude. She says she was always afraid I would meet some stuck up twerp who wouldn’t want to give me the ring!”

*

Wednesday came and at three o’clock sharp a taxi arrived at the door and Aunt Gertrude alighted, looking smart in a blue silk dress and a wide brimmed hat with a matching blue band. Dorothy and Hugh had been watching for her and had the door opened before she set foot on the steps.

The driver went round to the boot and removed two large boxes, which he carried up the steps, and handed to Hugh.. “There’s more to come.” He said.

Hugh went down with him and discovered two more boxes, one of them very heavy. and a large covered basket. When they reached the top step and placed them inside the door, Aunt Gertrude thanked the driver and paid him.

He tipped his hat respectfully and thanked her. “You’ll be back at eight, Alf?” she queried.

“Aye, I will that and I’ll wait if you’re not ready, Ma’am.”

“Thank you. I appreciate that.”

They all went into the house and Aunt Geraldine kissed Dorothy.

“Look, Aunt. Isn’t it lovely!” she said extending her hand to show the ring. “I really don’t know what to say. I’ll treasure it. It fits perfectly.”

“It was always going to be yours, dear. It’s been worn by two very happy women before you, so I hope some of that rubs off. Hugh my dear, take that basket through into the kitchen. I’ve brought some plums. They’ve ripened early this year. There’s some sugar in there as well. I’ve even managed to ripen one lemon in the glasshouse. You may not know this but your mother in law to be makes an excellent plum wine. I supply the plums and some sugar and we share the wine.”

“We had some Sunday evening. I slept like a baby.”

Hugh took the basket through to the kitchen and Aunt Gertrude turned to Dorothy as he left the hall.

“You’ve made a good choice there, dear. Now tell me, how is your father?”

“Come through and see for yourself, Aunt. The only reason he and Mum are not out here is to give us a minute with you. He’s thin, of course and I think he still has some pain but he won’t admit it.”

Her Aunt hugged her. “He’s here and he’s alive. The rest can be sorted. Let’s go in.”

Hugh followed them into the room as she went straight across to Mr Hatcherd, who rose as she entered, and she put her arms round him.

They stood quietly for a moment and Hugh saw that Mr Hatcherd was near tears. Aunt Gertrude was first to recover and scolded him roundly for being so careless as to leave an arm in France.

“Even when you were a lad, you were always losing things. I see you’ve not improved with age!” she quipped. Turning to Mrs Hatcherd, she kissed her.

“I told you he would turn up when you least expected it. Come on, admit it! I was right yet again!”

Hugh could see that underneath the teasing, Aunt Gertrude was upset at the sight of Mr Hatcherd and her eyes were suspiciously bright.

For a moment, Hugh caught her eye and smiled in recognition of her handling of the situation.

“Let’s sit down. Here, Aunt Gertrude come and sit on the sofa with us.”

Suiting action to his word, he sat in the middle of the sofa and Dorothy and Aunt Gertrude sat either side of him. Mr Hatcherd sat down again and Mrs Hatcherd, after a moment’s hesitation sat in the chair on the other side of the fireplace.

There was a moment’s awkward silence and Hugh realised that all four of his companions were finding the moment difficult.

“I’m the new boy here, so indulge me. My head spun a bit with the relationship between Aunt Gertrude and Mr Hatcherd. As I understand it, you’re a generation apart but only ten or so years apart in age.”

Aunt Gertrude, as he expected, picked up his lead.

“That’s right., Hugh. Though I think it’s only seven years. We have to go back to Henry Hatcherd for our common ancestor. He was my grandfather and Albert’s great grandfather. Families were bigger then. I was youngest in mine and Albert was oldest in his, though he was one of only eight and I was one of fifteen. I was nearer in age to Albert than some of my own siblings.”

“I see. So you ended up more like the same generation than some of your own brothers and sisters. I was an only child and I never remember my mother talking about her family so I’d never really thought of that sort of situation.”

Aunt Gertrude nodded. “With that many people all different ages, you get a lot of different views. Within each generation, some will be radical and some conservative. Albert and I were the only real radicals in our families so we naturally gravitated together.”

She smiled at Mr Hatcherd, who smiled back, looking more relaxed.

“When I announced that I was marrying Hubert, there was general disapproval. Albert stood up for me against his own parents and the rest of the family.”

“How old were you both?” asked Hugh, deeply interested in the tale.

“I was twenty eight. How old were you, Albert?”

“I was twenty one or near enough. If I’m honest, I think I was already set for a break with my parents. Dad wanted me to follow him into the wool trade. I wanted to stay on at school and go to college but he wouldn’t hear of it. He wanted me to start in the firm and work my way up. I stuck it till I was twenty one. I’d no choice really. I was a minor and had to do what my father said. Gertrude and I were friendly already, being the black sheep.”

Aunt Gertrude took up the tale. “I’d left home three years before. Albert and I kept in touch.”

“I was jealous that Gertrude had got away and I hadn’t.” Mr Hatcherd continued. “There was a big family row. Dad said if I went to the wedding, he’d disown me. I went anyway. You know, if the opposition had been because they believed divorce was wrong, I don’t think I wouldn’t have minded, even though I disagreed. It wasn’t though. It was all about what people would say! I left home and went to work in a bookshop and went to evening classes.

Then the war came and I joined up. I met Anne while I was on leave. Her family was different and they welcomed me. She was only twenty when we got married.”

“Hubert died in 1914 and, about the time Albert and Anne got married, I moved back to Yorkshire. Anne stayed with me while Albert was in the army.

“Did you ever make up with your families?”

“Not really. We got to the point where we could be civil but that was all.”

“Except for my brother Jack. He left home as soon as he could.” Said Mr Hatcherd. “He’s ten years younger than me so he was only eleven when I left. He fell in love with someone the family regarded as unsuitable and left home, too. He’s my partner in the Book Shop now.”

“That’s sad.” Dorothy commented. “Didn’t they care that they were losing their family?”

Aunt Gertrude shrugged. “Status means more than people to some folk.” They were very taken aback when they realised that Hubert was rich. They changed their tune then! It was too late, though. I’d no time for hypocrisy and had learned a few lessons in judging people. Anyway, that’s enough history for one time. Let’s talk about something else. How’s the allotment coming on?”

Hugh and Mr Hatcherd listened quietly for a while as the talk turned to vegetables and growing techniques.

Suddenly, Aunt Gertrude turned to Hugh.

“Are you a gardener?”

“Not yet.” Said Hugh with a smile at Dorothy. “I’m just learning the difference between a carrot and a weed. We only had a small backyard at home. There were allotments nearby and the men used to tend them. I don’t remember any women being involved and, as I had no Dad, we didn’t have one. My first introduction to gardening was at Polgarth, where I disgraced myself by hoeing up a row of carrots by mistake. I think I’d like to learn though. There’s something satisfying about eating vegetables you’ve actually pulled out of the ground yourself.

We’ll have a garden when we marry. Hopefully, we’ll be living near the school and all the cottages round about have gardens. I’m looking forward to learning.”

He put his hand on Dorothy’s and they smiled at one another.

Mrs Hatcherd got up to put the kettle on and Dorothy went with her to take the food through into the dining room. Soon afterwards, Hugh excused himself to see if he could help and left Aunt Gertrude and Mr Hatcherd to talk.

Soon they were all sitting round the table eating a delicious salad, all home grown as Dorothy proudly pointed out. Mrs Hatcherd had opened a precious tin of ham and made a cake. When no one could eat any more, Hugh and Dorothy cleared the table and washed up while her parents and aunt took a last cup of tea through to the sitting room.

When they returned, Mrs Hatcherd put her finger to her lips and pointed at her husband who had dozed off to sleep.

Dorothy nodded and as they sat down, turned to her aunt. “What is in those boxes you brought?”

“I forgot about those. Let’s go and look. You come, too Hugh and Anne. We’ll leave Albert to sleep for a bit.”

They went to fetch the boxes and took them to the kitchen.

“It’s just a start for your bottom drawer. I think we’ll be rationed for lots of things well after the war is over so I hunted through the linen cupboard for some things to start you off. I’ve more than I’ll ever need.”

They opened the first box and the smell of lavender wafted from it. Dorothy took out three linen sheets, beautifully embroidered with matching pillow cases, two fine woollen blankets and several thick fluffy towels.

The second box contained tablecloths with matching napkins, some edged with lace and others more suited for everyday. There were also lace mats and table runners.

The third revealed a large patchwork quilt of an intricate design in pale and deep blues.

Dorothy was thrilled. “This quilt is beautiful. In fact it’s all beautiful. Are you sure you can spare all this.”

“The sheets were embroidered by one of Hubert’s aunts as a wedding present. He had no less than four maiden aunts who each gave us two sets. I’m still using some of them and these never got into use. I’m not that sure why, except that eight sets of sheets is rather a lot.

The lace tablecloth and napkins we bought in Venice on our honeymoon. The others are just ones I’ve never got round to using.

The quilt I bought in America. They do a lot of quilting over there. When I got it home, it didn’t go with my bedroom. I bought it on impulse because I liked it, without thinking of the colours. I remembered you like blue, Dorothy.”

Dorothy hugged her. “It’s all lovely. Thank you so much.”

“I’m just glad you like them. Let Hugh open the last one.”

Hugh lifted the lid of the last box and he gasped. Inside was a complete set of the Waverley Novels, all bound in brown calf leather with gold lettering.

He turned to Aunt Gertrude, speechless for a moment.

“A house is not a home if it doesn’t have books in it. I’m sure you have books of your own, but you admired these last week.

“Thank you. I’ve always wanted to have a complete set, but I never aspired to anything so fine as these.”

He caressed one of the books, his delight obvious on his face.

Dorothy packed the boxes again. “I’ll leave them down here to show Dad later.” She turned to Hugh. “It’s odd but it seems more real now. We’ve got our first things for our home.”

Hugh put his arm round her shoulder and gave a little squeeze. “It does, doesn’t it. Thank you Aunt Gertrude. I really don’t know what to say. It’s so kind of you.”

They heard footsteps on the stairs and Mrs Hatcherd would have rushed out of the door, if Gertrude hadn’t stopped her.

“Let him go, Anne. He’s probably only going to the bathroom. I know it’s hard but he’ll settle back in better if you treat him normally. Isn’t that true, Hugh?”

Hugh nodded. “I know it’s not easy. You must be feeling so sorry for him but he needs to feel he’s able to cope. Don’t be surprised if he tries to overdo it. He’s going to want to feel useful again and he’s probably afraid he won’t be.”

“Let’s go through to the sitting room and, if he doesn’t come down in a few minutes, then you can go up and see that he’s alright.”

Mrs Hatcherd sighed. “I know you’re right. It’s just …”

Dorothy put her arm round her mother’s shoulders. “I know how you feel. I want to cosset him as well. Hugh’s right though.”

They went through and, by the time Mr Hatcherd came down, Hugh was telling the story of Reg’s Aunt and the triplets at the Sports Day.

“ …. I’ve never seen anything so funny. She just bowled him right over. There he sat with this little girl clutching him as if she wanted to strangle him and her two little sisters looking on. Then he saw his Auntie and he leapt up holding the little girl and went over to hug her. I don’t remember ever seeing triplets before.”

“Were they identical?” asked Dorothy.

“No, thank goodness. Very alike, but you could tell them apart. Their hair was different colours and they weren’t at all alike in temperament.”

Mr Hatcherd sat down and smiled round at them. “Sorry I dozed off.”

“Don’t worry about it. Your body knows best at the moment.”

“I know. They said at the hospital that I’d get very tired for a few weeks yet. I feel better for being at home where I can choose when I get up and go to bed. Hospital routine didn’t suit me at all. Besides, the food is better here.” And he smiled at his wife.

She laughed. “I should hope so from what you’ve told me. It could hardly be worse.”

At about half past seven, Mrs Hatcherd fetched a bottle of plum wine and glasses. “It’s the last bottle for a few months till the next lot is ready so make the most of it.” She poured and they drank, first to Albert’s safe return and then to Hugh and Dorothy.

“I’m sorry we couldn’t have a proper party for you.” Mrs Hatcherd said sadly. “You young people are missing out on things so much.”

“Not at all.” Retorted Hugh. “We’re celebrating with the people who matter. Family.”

He raised his glass. "Another toast. To Family.”


THE END OF PART 1

 

#70:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Sat Aug 20, 2005 6:16 pm

Oh that was lovely Pat, thank you. I just sat there and watched it happening

 

#71:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sat Aug 20, 2005 6:18 pm

Aunt Gertrude is wonderful, a real breath of fresh air for Dorothy's dad and I'm so pleased that Hugh has been so accepted by the Hatchards.
But oh Pat, my heart sank when I saw it was the end! Sad At least only of Part 1 though.

I really enjoyed this Pat, thank you Very Happy

 

#72:  Author: Ray, Location: Bristol, England PostPosted: Sat Aug 20, 2005 6:45 pm

I think every family should have an Aunt Gertrude. She's absolutely lovely. Just read this start to finish and throughly enjoyed myself. I particularly giggled over Hugh's apology to the chickens and his first meeting with Dorothy's father.

Also, got to join in the chorus of appreciation for Hugh's proposal.

Thanks Pat - very much looking forward to the next part!

Ray *Smile*

 

#73:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sat Aug 20, 2005 8:19 pm

*A house is not a home if it has no books in it* Oh yes!! How true!!

Thank you, Pat. This last episode was wonderful - what a lot of beautiful detail you packed in. Very Happy

 

#74:  Author: Alice, Location: London, England PostPosted: Sat Aug 20, 2005 8:31 pm

Thank you Pat, that was lovely. I liked hearing about the gifts for the bottom drawer.

 

#75:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sat Aug 20, 2005 8:32 pm

That was really lovely Pat! Thank you!

 

#76:  Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent, England PostPosted: Sat Aug 20, 2005 9:06 pm

I enjoyed hearing the history. Thanks, Patmac for the first part of this tale. When I get my own place, there definitely won't be a shortage of books!

 

#77:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Sat Aug 20, 2005 10:17 pm

Thank you Pat, that was lovely. I'm so glad Hugh has family again! Ahh.

 

#78:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Aug 20, 2005 10:43 pm

Lovely - thanks Pat

Liz

 

#79:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sun Aug 21, 2005 12:13 pm

Thank you, Pat, that was wonderful.

 

#80:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Aug 21, 2005 7:19 pm

Can only echo what's been said before, Pat, this is lovely. You make your characters live, they are real, breathing people, and they are taken to our hearts.

Thankyou.

 

#81:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Mon Aug 22, 2005 4:20 am

Wonderful, Pat!

The family feeling is so tangible, the connection between Hugh & Mr. Hatcherd immediate and unforced, and Aunt Gertrude -- I love Aunt Gertrude! Very Happy

 

#82:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Aug 22, 2005 9:21 am

A lovely ending, Pat, thanks. Very Happy

 

#83:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Aug 22, 2005 9:32 am

Lovely. THank you Pat. Aunt Gertrude is wonderful.

 

#84:  Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Mon Aug 22, 2005 9:38 am

O, how wonderful, Pat! Thank you so much.

Glad to see it's only the end of Part 1 too - though a bit sorry for you - your plot bunnies are certainly multiplying!

 

#85:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Mon Aug 22, 2005 11:54 am

Oh, this was lovely, and ended so hopefully!

Sorry for confusing anyone - I did mean Mr and Mrs Tweedie from "Chicken Run".

 

#86:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Tue Aug 23, 2005 3:40 am

A lovely note to finish on. I have enjoyed Dorothy's story.

Oh and Cath, I've never seen Chicken Run so really am awfully iggie! (But I can quote and sing along with all of Labyrinth Laughing )

 

#87:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Tue Aug 23, 2005 5:59 pm

Oh Pat - that was just gorgeous

I've just read it right through and nearly flooded the keyboard Crying or Very sad Very Happy



I love the way your bunnies multiply - can we have more about Aunt Gertrude please (as well as everyone else) Wink

 

#88:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Wed Aug 24, 2005 4:08 pm

I shal just echo everyone else and say that it was wonderful - so glad that Hugh has a family again!

 

#89:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Aug 30, 2005 9:53 pm

I have just read all this, and it was wonderful. My eyes are most definatly not dry and goosebumps kept appearing. I love Aunt Gertrude and the proposal was wonderful.

 

The CBB -> Ste Therese's House


output generated using printer-friendly topic mod, All times are GMT

Page 1 of 1

Powered by phpBB 2.0.6 © 2001,2002 phpBB Group