The CBB :: View topic

#1: Jem's Story Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 8:09 am

The newly married Jem Russell leant back in his leather bound chair and sighed. His very capable and promising young deputy, Jack Maynard had had to return to England at a moment’s notice, for some accident had befallen Jack’s nephew Rolf, and the poor lad was not expected to survive. Even now, Jack and his twin sister Mollie were flying across Europe. Jem’s heart ached for them. Poor Mollie had had to put off her wedding. Mollie had only just left her post at the Chalet School, run by Jem’s new wife and Jack had only just got out here. Jem had watched how tenderly they comforted each other and their thoughts were with their brother “poor Bob” and their dying nephew, Rolf.

Such tenderness and sibling affection was not lost on Jem; nor was the affection Madge held for Joey, or the glowing terms in which she spoke of her twin brother, Dick. Jem had not yet met Dick Bettany and deep down was a little worried lest Dick might think him a ‘usurper’ at the head of the family. He was after all, eleven years older than Madge. When Jem had tried to broach this issue with Madge, she had nearly had hysterics of laughter. She had even threatened to tell that young ragamuffin Joey, claiming she would be “tickled pink” by this.

In retaliation, her husband had warned her against the evils of Headmistresses climbing trees! He had learnt of Madge’s passion for tree climbing. In India, when Madge was eight she had shinned up a tree, where, unbeknown to her a snake was basking. Col Bettany had seen this and ordered his daughter to get down “on the double”, his hand near his service revolver, ready to shoot the reptile into next week if it harmed or alarmed his daughter.

Back to the present, Jem realised why he felt so low. His own beloved Margot had not been at his wedding. Neither had Dick, but he had sent a moving letter and a beautiful wedding gift. Jem’s parents, like Madge’s were dead, but his sister was still alive! Somewhere in Australia.

“Families!” expostulated Jem, and he opened his safe and took out an aged crumpled photograph of a woman holding a baby girl, and a letter. Jem poured himself a large scotch and read the letter.

“Dear Jimsie,

Have reached Australia and our little boy is walking! He has a baby sister, named Margaret, after mother, so we shall call her Daisy.

I wish you could see her Jem! Such a cheery little flower and as strong as an ox!

Baby Stevie can only call his sister “Daydee”.

Stephen hasn’t found a job yet. He was dismissed from his last post. I’m sure something will come up. Australia is so hot!

I miss our little chats Jim.

Perhaps little Stevie and Daisy will have little chats like we used to.

I must go. Stephen is returning and he doesn’t like me writing letters.

Please write back,

Love

Margot.”

Such a short letter. The only contact he had had since Margot had left with that villain Venables. Reading between the lines, Jem could feel something was not right. Suddenly, his heart hardened. “look at the pain she caused mother and father! She’s made her bed, she can lie in it!” On that score Jem with his unhappy memories sank into a bottle of Scotch.

#2: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 10:07 am

Oh gosh, poor Jem and Margot too Crying or Very sad

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

Posted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 10:12 am

Thanks, Phil. This is great so far. I look forward to seeing more of the familys' history.

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

Posted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 10:39 am

Poor Jem and poor Margot. Thank you Phil.

#5: Author: Gerrie, Location: Ireland

Posted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 12:20 pm

This looks really interesting Phil, look forward to more.

#6: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 12:56 pm

I'm looking forward to another version of the M/B/R universe.

#7: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 2:24 pm

Poor Jem!

I never thought how the Bettany and Maynard siblings would remind him of Margot. Thanks Phil.

#8: Author: LadyGuinevere, Location: Leicester

Posted: Mon Dec 05, 2005 3:59 pm

That's really rather sad Crying or Very sad

Thanks Phil

#9: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Tue Dec 06, 2005 8:15 am

Someone was shaking him. Was it that cad Venables? He’ll get more than he bargained for this time! Jem awoke with a violent start and found himself looking into the face of his wife. Tears of hurt and rage streaked down her normally pretty face, she meant to have some answers!

“Five minutes! Barely five minutes we’ve been married! Who is he? Who is she? Answer me James Russell! Have I married a coward? Who is this Margot woman? Your bit on the side? Or maybe you are already married to her and I’ve committed bigamy! Who is he? Oh if I were a man, I would shoot you now. If my father were alive, he would have you flogged! Goodness knows what my brother Dick will say! He’ll be furious! He may be in India, but he will be back here as quick as a flash! I shall also tell Captain Humphries! Yes, I’m cabling him in Moscow now! You won’t know what hit you! Do you make a habit of picking on single naïve women? How could you, when I have a young sister to care for! Who is this common hussy? Where does she live? How dare you do this to me?

Jem followed the enraged Madge, uttering feeble protestations at her tirade, his brain still fuddled by alcohol.

“Darling, what on earth…?”

“I want a divorce! If our wedding was legal in the first place!”

“Of course it was!”

“Don’t you ‘darling’ me either!” Hell definitely hath no fury like a woman scorned. Madge was living proof.

“Big man aren’t you, hiding behind the respectable veneer of the medical profession, whilst you have other children with some common slattern!”

“DON’T CALL MY SISTER A SLATTERN!” bellowed Jem. For a second, Madge looked frightened, then she recovered her wits.

“You told me you don’t have any brothers or sisters.”

“And I said no longer. I do have a sister, but I might as well not have one now.” A note of sorrow appeared in Jem’s voice.

“How do I know you are telling the truth?”

It was Jem’s turn to explode. “Ask your precious brother! Or better still ask Captain Humphries! Go on! See if I care if you probe into my family background! Yes go on! Ask them! Go to Somerset House and get her birth certificate, and while you are there, see if I am married to anyone else. I dare you!”

Madge had not seen this side to her husband. Jem noticed Margot’s letter and photograph in Madge’s trembling hand.

“Madge, I implore you. Read that letter again. She mentions a girl, Daisy, a little boy Steveie and another person, Stephen, the Father. Look at the photo, there is a family resemblance to me. Oh look at it do!” Despair crept into Jem’s voice. Madge sank down to re read the letter. Jem had left the room only to return with a bundle of aged photographs of himself and his sister in happier days.

Then the phone rang. Both Madge and Jem hoped that whoever it was would just hang up, but it rang and rang and rang and rang and rang and rang. Madge got up to answer it.

“Yes?”
“No Joey Baba I can’t talk right now.”
“No Joey.”
“Josephine, thank you I can look after myself! Goodnight Josephine!”

Madge slammed the receiver down and returned to the letter and photographs. She looked at her husband again. The man seemed so distressed and lost. She realised her mistake.

“Tell me what happened Jem. I’m your wife. Let me support you.”

They sat on the sofa, Jem with tears in his eyes, rubbed his face, took a deep breath and began

#10: Author: Gerrie, Location: Ireland

Posted: Tue Dec 06, 2005 10:22 am

Oops Madge - give the man the benefit of the doubt!!!
Thanks Phil, this is great.

#11: Author: Le Petite Em, Location: Cheltenham

Posted: Tue Dec 06, 2005 2:18 pm

Ooooo very interesting!!! Thank-you vair much.

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

Posted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 12:51 am

Thanks, Phil. I'm glad Madge finally believed Jem.

#13: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 8:11 am

“After returning from South Africa to England, Margot took up training as a nurse and I was about to start medical school. Then the war came. I was dispatched to the Italian front, and Margot saw the horrors of Gallipoli. One of the ANZAC lads took a shine to her, but he was dead within a month. Margot grieved for him. She needed comfort. It came from Venables. A man who had a reputation for not pulling his weight. The only man whose was war record was worse than Venables’s was the Kaiser himself. Nothing could be proved, but it was suspected he gambled and had a mini black market going. The last Margot saw of him was at the end of the war, when the redcaps came for him.

Anyway, I took up my training with a vengeance, and Margot was greatly changed by the war, wanting to throw out old ideas and just enjoy herself. Seeing the horrors of gas weapons, I wanted to do something for medicine. Margot didn’t seem to care any more. So I finished training in 1924, then Venables reappeared on the scene. I suspected he had been in gaol. I wasn’t certain though.

One day I arrived home to find Venables in the sitting room, in my chair, reading the paper and puffing on a cigar as if he were Lord of the Manor! Margot became obsessed with him and he bossed her and humiliated her frequently. She didn’t seem to notice. Mother, Father and I tried to show her what sort of a man he really was.

During one row I had with Margot, she suddenly cried out and collapsed. I examined her to see what was wrong, there was no doubt she was pregnant. Then Venables appeared.

‘Allo Jimmikins! Playing Doctors and Nurses? How sweet! Run along now little boy and go and play!’

‘You’ve got my sister pregnant!’

‘You what?’

‘Are you deaf? You’ve got my sister pregnant, and now I’m going to thrash you!’

Suddenly Venables had me in a headlock and was pummelling my face. He even put me across his knee and joking gave me a hiding, then after a few more kicks, he shoved me on the compost heap in the garden. I was so humiliated. He was like an animal.

Then Margot had the nerve to scold me! In rage I disowned her. Mother and Father came out to see what the row was about. Father disowned Margot that day too and told her to ‘never darken my door again’. Venables took her in the clothes she was standing in.

Tempers cooled after a while and Father and I wished we hadn’t been so rash as to disown her. We made enquiries as to her whereabouts, only to hear she had eloped with Venables to Australia. All I ever heard from her was that letter on the birth of Daisy. I did write back, but my letters were returned, probably by that fiend.”

In tears now, the great James Russell turned to his wife. “Madge darling, I have resigned myself to never hearing from my sister again. Both my parents died in a road accident in 1929. I had nobody. I remember as mother was dying, she was crying out for Margot. I sold the house and with the inheritance money, I decided to build a sanatorium here. England holds unpleasant memories for me. Please Madge, you are all I’ve got! I love you! I have yet to meet your brother, I am very fond of that mad sister of yours. I’m sorry I kept this from you. Seeing Jack and Mollie go off to visit their nephew for the last time got me thinking about families. Madge can you forgive me?

Madge sighed, “Jem, you’ve still got me. You’ve got me for keeps! But you should tell me these things Jem or I won’t feel trusted or loved. I have a right to help you, I am your wife.”

“Of course,” agreed Jem. “I can honestly say there are no more skeletons in my closet! There is one thing Madge.”

“What’s that?”

“I don’t mind you telling Joey about Margot, but I would rather she didn’t know all the gory details.”

“Of course.” Smiled Madge.

From time to time, Jem wondered what became of his sister.

In the meantime, Jack Maynard had returned, having said his final goodbye to his nephew, now dead and buried, having paid the ultimate price for disobedience. Jack vowed bitterly that any children of his would be brought up to the strictest obedience.

On being told about Jem’s sister, Joey had entertained some romantic notion of tracing the woman, but Madge had put her foot down over this. Jem’s private affairs were not to be raked up. Luckily, in Joey’s eyes, obedience to Madge was the priority of her life.

Daisy’s name cropped up at Sybil’s naming party, but Jem had hid his emotions from the assembled girls and from his sister in law.

Far away in Australia, Jem was at the forefront of one little girl’s thoughts…

#14: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Wed Dec 07, 2005 8:52 am

Oh poor Jem. & what did happen to Rolf Maynard before he died? Thanks Phil.

#15: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 1:12 pm

Ever since she was little Daisy Venables had wanted an uncle or an aunt. Her favourite game with some of the girls she used to play with was “families”. She remembered one day when she was about six, a gasp of surprise from Mummy, who was reading the paper.

“Jem’s married!” Margot’s face was full of joy as she said this to herself!

“Mummy, who is Jem?” queried Daisy, always ready with a question!

“Mummy’s brother! Your Uncle! He is living in a place called Austria and he has got married!”

“Do I have an Uncle Jem? A real live uncle?” Daisy was amazed! “When can we see him?”

“Oh it’s so far away! Oh Jem…”

“But if it’s Australia, he can’t be very far.”

“No Daisy girl, Austria. Here look at this map. There’s Austria, and we are here in Australia, and look how big Australia is anyway!”

Margot had pulled out a tatty atlas to show her daughter.

“Will Uncle Jem come and find us?” asked Daisy.

Margot felt pained. How could she explain to her little girl exactly why she thought Jem would never want to see her again? Then there was Stephen. He had been drinking more and more lately.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the clatter of tiny feet and a heavy footfall. Her sons had returned with their Father.

“Daisy, sweetheart, go and get your Father a drink and not a word about Uncle Jem.”

Puzzled, Daisy went to fetch her Father a drink. She knew how to keep secrets, Mummy had asked her to keep things secret from Daddy before. She was rather frightened of her Daddy, she didn’t like it when he shouted.

The next day, when Stephen had left for work again, Daisy had pestered her mother for more information about Uncle Jem.

“I will show you a photo of him.” Said Margot wearily. In a rarely worn locket, underneath the photo of Daisy and the boys, was one of a jolly looking chap with fair hair.

“That’s him?” Daisy did not sound impressed. She had dreamed of her Uncle Jem as being a tall dark haired man with a beard, a bit like the King.

However, Margot stared lovingly at the locket photo. “That’s him.” she said wistfully.

As time wore on, Daisy forgot about her Uncle. She had a new sister called Primula, but her brothers were becoming ill. Daddy shouted more and more at Mummy, who was crying more and more. The Doctor kept visiting the house more and more, then the boys died. Daisy wondered if her Uncle Jem could have saved her brothers, as she wept into her eiderdown. Then Daddy died of a snakebite. Primula was becoming ill and so was Mummy. Daisy started to become terrified. What if Mummy and Primula died? What could she do?

Daisy openly cried herself to sleep, sobbing for her Uncle Jem to come and help.

On board the liner bound for Torino, from where they could travel to Austria, Margot Venables watched the shoreline of Australia recede into the distance. Margot hated leaving those little boys behind, but she could not risk the health of her daughters!

Daisy so wanted to open up her fears to Mummy! What if Uncle Jem was a nasty man and didn’t want to help? Or what if his wife was nastier and tried to hurt Mummy? Daisy tried not to cry, but it was difficult. Weeks of sailing, crossing the Indian Ocean, past the horn of Africa and via the Suez Canal and Eastern Mediterranean brought them to Torino at last. Money was running out. Mummy eventually managed to negotiate her way to Innsbruck, but from there, they were hopelessly lost!

Two big girls were crossing the street, Daisy with her keen eyes saw guides badges! She had so wanted to be a guide! Then a miracle happened! The one with dark hair spoke English! An English speaking guide! Here in Austria! It was too good to be true!

Without checking to see for cars or traffic, Daisy made a beeline for the guides. Quickly, before she missed them! This was her only chance! Mummy was so tired and Primula had begun to wail. She tugged the sleeve of the dark haired one, then her courage failed her as the big girl turned round to look at her…

Margot was in a nightmare! She spoke no German, and Primula needed feeding. Where was Daisy? “Daisy? Daisy!” Her terror only lasted a few seconds. Her girl came over with two older girls, one of whom spoke English!

#16: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 1:19 pm

Thanks, Phil. this is really giving the tale some depth.

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

Posted: Thu Dec 08, 2005 8:34 pm

Thanks, Phil. It was interesting to see the tale from Daisy's PoV.

#18: continued Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Mon Dec 12, 2005 10:28 am

Jem answered the phone.

“Herr Doktor, It is Frieda, Frieda Mensch”

“Yes Frieda, Is something wrong with Joey? Was everything allright at Herr von Francius?”

“Yes, but Herr Doktor, Joey believes, she thinks she may have found your sister.”

Silence fell.

“Herr Doktor? Herr Doktor are you there?”

“My sister is in Australia. How can she possibly be here?”

“But Herr Doktor, she is! She has come with her daughters Daisy and Primula to seek you! She is not well Herr Doktor. We are at the Anich Hotel. Herr Doktor you must come!”
A range of emotions swept over Jem and his face went white. Could it be Margot? After all these years? Or was it some impostor trying to extract money from him? There had been all that gossip about the Tsar’s so called “daughter” Anastasia being found in Berlin a few years back. If it was Margot, he had to find out one way or another!

He reprimanded Frieda for going off with strangers and said he would speak with Joey and investigate this woman’s claim. He replaced the receiver, his hands trembling. Madge came over to him, baby Sybil in her arms.

“What is the matter dear?”

“Joey. She’s done it again!”

“Done what?” Madge was aghast.

“Only run off to the Anich Hotel with Frieda Mensch and some strange woman who claims to be my sister!”

“What on Earth? She knows not to go off with strangers! Really at her age! I don’t know where I’ve gone wrong with her!”

“It’s allright Madge, I’ll bring her back and investigate this claim. I should think if it is a prank of hers, she ought to be dreading the reception she will receive from you!”

“I should give her a good shaking! Hasn’t she any thought for your feelings either? Jem you must be feeling awful!”

“I feel angry, sick, emotional, I so want my sister back, but can’t bear to have my hopes dashed after all these years! Madge, what am I to do?”

“As you said, investigate this claim. You have to know either way. If it turns out to be false, bring madam back here anyway and I shall certainly speak to her!”

“And if it is Margot?”

“Then let’s hope it is. Don’t ever lose sight of hope Jem. You as a doctor know how important that is.”

Jem kissed Madge and his baby daughter. Sybil had been wide awake throughout this, as if listening to every word. She gave a baby giggle as her Father kissed her.

“I do love you Madge.” And with that, Jem was off.

#19: Author: Identity Hunt, Location: UK

Posted: Mon Dec 12, 2005 6:16 pm

Phil, this is simply magnificent ! But so sad :cry
Thank you !

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

Posted: Mon Dec 12, 2005 7:08 pm

Thanks, Phil. I'm sorry that Jem didn't believe Joey at 1st.

#21: Author: Elisabeth,

Posted: Tue Dec 13, 2005 8:43 am

So weepy. Poor Jem. It's nice to see things from his side for a change.
More, more, more!

#22: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Tue Dec 13, 2005 12:06 pm

Margot Venables had been reinstalled at the Anich Hotel. A few hours sleep would be a blessing. Suddenly terrible doubts assailed her. What if Jem was still angry with her? Were mother and father still alive? What would they say? Even if Jem took her back, his wife Madge was an unknown quantity. What if she hated her and turned Jem against her? What if she were cruel to Daisy and Primula? Madge Russell was becoming a fearful monster in Margot’s terrors, besides whether Jem would take her back.

As Primula slept, Daisy was thinking similar thoughts. How often had she mentioned Uncle Jem in her prayers? But what about Auntie Madge? Would Uncle Jem be cross with Mummy? Secretly, Daisy was getting afraid of Uncle Jem. What if Uncle Jem did not want her and only wanted Mummy and Primula? Daisy offered a heartfelt prayer to God, begging Uncle Jem and Auntie Madge to be kind to Mummy, Primula and to herself.

Primula woke for a feed. She was too little to understand her mother and sister’s tears.

Outside, as Jem neared Margot’s door with Joey, he felt a sudden surge of fear before remembering Madge’s words about hope. As Joey knocked, he heard a startled voice in reply, “Come in!” It was Margot’s voice! It was! It was Margot! Jem knew it! He must see her! He must! In a second he was in the room…

The knock sounded on the door, catching Margot and Daisy by surprise. Margot wasn’t ready! She wasn’t ready to prepare herself for meeting her brother! Without thinking she automatically said, “Come in!” It was Jem! Jem at last! Everything was over! It was all over! Thank God!

They hugged each other as if they never meant to let go.

Margot wept, “I’m so sorry, please forgive me, I’m so sorry”

Jem could not keep the tears from his eyes, and thankfully Joey did not see. “I’ve missed you, I’ve missed you so much! I’ve got you back now!”

Words could not do justice to the relief felt and the tears washed away all the pain of the years apart.

Margot settled down, hearing news of her parents and what Jem was doing now and she told him of her years in Australia. Whenever she mentioned her late husband’s name, she seemed to flinch or look over her shoulder as if he were still there, listening.

Jem noticed this and fury burned in his heart. That brute had hurt his sister! How cruel he was! Well Stephen Venables would go to Hades for all eternity, and the Devil himself was welcome to that man’s soul! Thought Jem.

Jem just wanted to hold his sister and be with her forever. He would never let go of her again. Never. He noticed how tired and ill she was, and his instincts as a doctor took over from his brotherly emotions. He musn’t tire his sister out. He had to see her asleep. So he curious as ever asked to be introduced to his nieces. Here at last was the little Daisy, whom he had only seen in a photo. She stared up at him with an equal measure of curiosity as her uncle stared at her. She was going to be a big girl; Properly nourished and cared for, Jem would see to that! Then baby Primula! Such a beautiful little lady, and the image of him, he had to admit!

He felt a surge of pride in his little nieces.

Daisy had first seen a man who looked like Mummy rush into the room. Mummy was crying and hung onto him like a baby! That nice big girl Joey kept talking to her and helping her with Primula, but Daisy so wanted to go to Mummy! This must be Uncle Jem! He didn’t look like a nasty man, he didn’t make Mummy afraid like Daddy did. They talked and talked for forever it seemed. Daisy was so tired, and just looked at her Uncle Jem. She was glad of her bed.

That night, Jem slipped into bed with a sleepy Madge, his face serene and boy like.

“It’s her Madge, It’s her!” His eyes were red with crying and he fell asleep in his wife’s arms, like a child.

#23: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Tue Dec 13, 2005 3:57 pm

Ahhhhhhh!

#24: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Tue Dec 13, 2005 5:24 pm

How lovely! Thanks, Phil.

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

Posted: Tue Dec 13, 2005 10:10 pm

Thanks, Phil. That reunion was so moving. Crying or Very sad

I'm glad Daisy realised her Uncle Jem wasn't so scary and he did want her as well as her mother and sister.

#26: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Tue Dec 13, 2005 11:30 pm

Thanks Phil, that was really moving. We don't often get to see Jem showing his emotions.

#27: more here Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Wed Dec 14, 2005 8:12 am

Daisy woke all groggy. Was she back in her room in Australia? Was she still on the ship? No! Memories flooded back! Joey, Uncle Jem and Mummy! She slipped out of bed to find Mummy fully dressed. She had never seen her look so happy! Could this really be real? There was such a “life” about her!

“We’re going to live with your Uncle! He’s been telling us all about your new Auntie! Auntie Madge is dreadfully worried about us! Let’s go and put her mind at rest. You’ll see that nice girl Joey again and you’ll go to her school. Uncle Jem will be here soon darling! Have a wash and I’ll pack for you.”

Madge Russell had packed her husband off with promises of getting food ready and beds and any linen. Jem had been so excited he barely sat still! She had listened to her husband talk about the condition his sister was in, and was horrified. “Any fool could see the poor girl was terrified of that scoundrel!” Jem had uttered. “She’s safe now Jem, she is with us! She is probably worrying what sort of person I am! Just tell her I am waiting to welcome her!” replied Madge.

After Jem had gone, Madge made a special visit to the nursery, to announce the arrival of her nieces. Little Peggy was thrilled to have someone else to mother, but was a little wary that there was an older girl. Hopefully she would be like Robin. Rix had not paid much attention, but had wanted another male companion. However, he had become wise enough not to say that to Auntie Madge. Young Sybil seemed to resent the intrusion already and wailed her protest aloud. David and Jackie observed Rix and as that young man took no action, neither did they. It was the Robin who was most excited. She offered to help Madge and wondered out aloud what Daisy would be like? Madge smiled. The Robin was one of those rare people whom nobody could fail to be friends with.

“But they are here! They are here!” said the Robin. “Robin don’t jump like that and keep out of the cold! I shall bring them to the nursery when they are ready!” said Madge, her own excitement showing in the spring in her step.

The car had rolled up and parked in its usual spot and Jem was helping his sister out. Margot clung Primula to her and Daisy trotted next to her mother. They did not notice the small lady with dark curly hair and an open, welcoming face approach. Jem saw her first.

“Madge!”

Margot turned, slightly afraid, but the look of sheer welcome on Madge’s face simply obliterated any fears she may have had. This was a woman she could trust implicitly!

“Welcome home Margot. Welcome to your new home. We are so pleased to have you. Come inside and have something to eat and drink!” With her arm around her sister in law and asking fondly after her nieces, Madge steered her new family members inside.

Daisy was impressed! Such a grand house, the smell of the woodwork, all the pretty furnishings and it was warm too! Was this really her home now? Auntie Madge was so kind, she seemed to know just what to ask a girl, especially about Guides! They were greeted by a beautiful vision of a dark haired girl a little older than Daisy.

“This is Cecilia Marya Humphries or the Robin as we call her! She is the daughter of Ted Humphries, a friend of the family and of my Father’s. Captain Humphries is now secretary at the Sonnalpe where Jem works. Shall we go to the nursery Robin? Then we can all be introduced. Lead on Robin!”

Rix, Peggy, Bride and David were concentrating on a game of brick building, whilst Jackie and Sybil gurgled politely to each other. Then a most unusual thing happened! Three adults and the Robin came in; with an older girl and a baby of David’s age.

“This is our nursery Margot. These are my brother’s children: Rix, Peggy, Bride and Jacky. These are Jem’s and mine and they are your niece and nephew too. Here is David, and this is Sybil. Say ‘Hello Auntie Margot!’

David bravely came forward to greet his new Aunt and cousins. Daisy could not help smiling at the young chap. She was reminded of her brothers. Distant memories of the boys surfaced. Oh no! Was she going to cry? Margot looked rather tearful. Jem and Madge gave each other a quick, knowing look. They had each thought the same thing and knew what Daisy and Margot were thinking. Madge put her arm around Daisy.

“Daisy, you’ve have gained something here! You really have! You will have to help me teach David how to be a good boy, won’t you? He’s very friendly. Go on, give him a cuddle!” Daisy did. As she felt the little boy’s arms around her, she felt so happy. She also felt she could talk to the Robin, who noticed her mixed emotions and the Robin yearned to help Daisy with all her heart!

Madge continued, “You remember Joey called you an Aunt by marriage? Well, these others must be your cousins by marriage too!” Madge introduced Daisy to the Bettany children. Secretly Madge wondered how the headstrong Rix would react, but when faced with such a large girl, he kept a civil tongue. After all, he adored the Robin and took it for granted that this big girl would be just like her. “Allo. Like buildin’ bricks?” Rix grinned.

Margot had been worried for her elder girl, but seeing her join straight in with the nursery folk, was an extra boost of happiness to her heart.

How long they stayed in the nursery they did not know. Jem had taken a good few days off. Work went out of the window when it came to resettling his beloved sister, and he resolved to join in the nursery games and baby holding. Sybil, once she was in her father’s arms was not too keen on the idea of leaving them to be replaced by Primula, but she soon fell asleep in Auntie Margot’s arms.

The Robin had taken Daisy to a corner seat in the nursery to chat. “Me, I was so sad after Maman died, but I still have Papa, Tante Guito and Oncle Jem, and has Joey told you of the Chalet School? Oh but you will love it Daisy! You will so love it!”

Daisy was enthralled about the Chalet School! Why she could hardly believe the things that went on! “Flooding? Rambles? Firebolts in the fields?” She had said. Occasionally she let slip how worried she was for Mummy and Primula and how she wished the boys had not died. The Robin did not probe into this, but her mere presence was a real comfort to Daisy, who in the future would always talk with the Robin, and occasionally about her time in Australia, but only in the deepest confidences.

“Daisy, why do you speak different?” This from Peggy.

“I don’t!” began Daisy.

“It’s because we lived in a far away land called Australia. We have what is called an accent, we sound more different from your Auntie Madge and Uncle Jem, because we have lived there so long.” Explained Auntie Margot.

“I like it!” decided Peggy.

There was no one in that room who would not rank this as the happiest days of their family life.

Later, after the children had gone to bed, Madge, Jem and Margot dined.

“Margot, you must have been so worried about what would happen to you.” Said Madge.

“I have to admit I was scared right up until I met you. Somehow I just know you are the best woman for Jem and that you don’t resent me.” Replied Margot.

“I knew you would feel that way when you met Madge! I may not be right about everything, but on this I was!” laughed Jem.

“Jem, this isn’t Mother and Father’s dining table is it?”

“The very same!”

“But what happened to the house?”

“Sold it to pay for this place and build the Sanatorium on the Sonnalpe! Which reminds me, you must have a share, seeing as you are my sister!”

“Did you only keep the table?”

“Oh a few other bits and bobs. Some of mother’s jewellery, which I couldn’t bear to part with. You’ll have to fight with Madge over that! Father’s bookcase from his study. That’s it really.”

“I’ve given him Colonel Bettany’s study desk for his office at the San! I couldn’t part with that, and Dick would not take it to India, so we have quite a mixture of Bettany and Russell furniture!”

“Amazing! Daisy and I must see your Chalet School too Madge!”

“I would be glad to show you around, and you may see Joey again!”

“Perhaps young Joey should be the guide of honour, after all she is Head Girl and without her, it might have taken a few more days to find me.”

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

Posted: Wed Dec 14, 2005 5:32 pm

Thanks, Phil. I'm really glad everyone has made them feel so welcome and everyone is getting on with each other well.

#29: The End Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu Dec 15, 2005 12:25 pm

Seasons passed, Margot Venables rallied much to the joy of all concerned. Little Primula became a most devoted follower of her cousin David, much to the annoyance of his sister Sybil. There had been one occasion where Sybil had gone forth in a rage at all her cousins, screaming “Go back to India, and go back to Australia!” making Primula cry. On that occasion, Daisy had very much been the protective older sister and warned madam Sybil of dire consequences should she make Primula cry again! After that Sybil always seemed to be in awe of the elder girl, now happily ensconced in the Chalet School.

For Jem Russell, nothing could get better. He had his sister back, a wonderful wife and children, the Chalet School was flourishing and so was the Sanatorium. The best thing for him was his family.

Years later, whilst Jem was touring Australia and New Zealand, his nieces Daisy and Primula, now married, came to visit. He reflected on those happy days in the Tirol.

“Uncle Jem, there’s something we want to show you.”

Intrigued, Jem drove his nieces, on their directions, to a little cemetery outside Brisbane. Daisy and Primula had taken this opportunity to look at the local library and records office for a bit of family history.

“Uncle Jem, you remember how I used to cry at the mention of Mummy? Well, Laurie has helped me get over that. He also thought it might be an idea to close the chapter on our lives in Australia, by bringing you here.” Said Daisy.

Uncle Jem was led to a spot where the graves of his late nephews and late brother in law lay. Francis, Stephen and James Venables, the nephews he never knew.

“I said to your mother, the little lads had been spared the heat of the day, and as your mother died, we said she was going to see your brothers again. As she was dying, we kept talking over the good things. Seeing your grandparents, our Russell parents again and the best moments in our lives.”

As Daisy and Primula listened, they had laid flowers on their brothers’ and father’s graves.

“What was one the best moments in your life Uncle Jem? I think we already know.” Began Primula.

“Being reunited with your mother and meeting you both. Finally closing a chapter in the family history.” Said Jem. He himself laid flowers on his nephews’ graves. The little cards read: “From your sisters Daisy and Primula and your Uncle Jem, all our love. We’ll meet again someday.”

Jem made only a polite nod to the grave of their Father, Stephen Venables. He could never forgive that man for what he had done to his sister, but the man was Daisy and Primula’s father and he stood back as they laid flowers on his grave.

The trio felt as if the final, but significant part of their family ghost had been laid to rest.

They dined with their spouses and that night, looking to the future: Josette’s marriage and Sybil’s engagement, and wondered what tricks Ailie was up to at the Chalet School.

#30: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Dec 15, 2005 12:34 pm

Was that the end, Phil? I hope not, it was a lovely story.

#31: Afraid so Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu Dec 15, 2005 2:19 pm

I'm afraid it was the end, but I may be able to root out the odd inspirational bunny. I'm glad you liked it. I did make a mistake. I thought Margot's eldest son was Stephen, named after her husband, but in New House, I think she says Jimmy was the eldest.

I suppose I should give myself some lines and an order mark for such a mistake! Wink

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

Posted: Thu Dec 15, 2005 2:46 pm

Thanks, Phil. That was lovely. It's good that they got to go and visit the graves. Thank you for writing the drabble.

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

Posted: Thu Dec 15, 2005 4:52 pm

Thanks Phil that was lovely.

Ruth

#34: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Thu Dec 15, 2005 5:03 pm

Oh how sweet. Just found this, thanks Phil Very Happy

#35: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Fri Dec 16, 2005 4:25 am

That was lovely, thanks, Phil.

The CBB -> Ste Therese's House

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