The CBB :: View topic - Just an Ordinary Woman

#1: Just an Ordinary Woman - part five Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 2:45 pm

Archived for length 15/01/05 Part One Part Two Part Three Part Four ~Vikki~

The following day, a Monday, saw everyone back at the School, an excited Robbie being dropped off at the Nursery for Registration at 8.30 am by Miss Annersley. As she stooped to kiss him goodbye she also spoke, “Now remember, Robbie, when you are in Assembly in fifteen minutes, you must stay with Mrs Phillips and the rest of the class, you mustn’t come onto the dais with Auntie Nell and myself.”

“I ‘member Auntie Hilda,” the little boy giggled, “I mean Miss Annley,”

The Head swept him up in a hug, “Good boy, I see you for tea, now go with Miss Burke.”

Robbie ran off with the Nursery Assistant, Miss Annersley looked across at Mrs Phillips, the Nursery Mistress smiled, “Don’t worry, Hilda,” she said quickly, “We’ll keep hold of him this time!”

The previous Friday, halfway through a number of notices, the Head had been interrupted by a small but solid mass running onto the dais and flinging his arms around her. At the same time he had been saying to the rest of the School at the top of his voice that, ’This is my Auntie Hilda. I tole you she was here. She splashed me in the bath yesterday, even in my eyes, but I didn’t cry!’

As the Head had been delivering a lecture to the School about the general tidiness of the School bathrooms, following a report from the Senior Housemistress, this information had been greeted with shrieks of laughter. It had taken ten minutes to stop everyone, Miss Annersley included, from laughing, and the rest of the day’s lessons were delayed ten minutes as a consequence.

The day unfolded without incident, Miss Annersley had a number of meetings to attend as well as a few late interviews for possible new students for the next term. She also taught a couple of classes. For once her work was reasonably up-to-date when the bell rang at 4.30pm to signal the end of lessons and Tea. For the majority of the School this was just a light meal, a sandwich and small cake, before they started 90 minutes of Prep. Their main evening meal being Supper at 6.30pm.

However, Kindergarten, ages 3 to 6, did not have Prep, and went to bed at 7pm. Therefore for them Tea was their main evening meal with only a glass of milk before they went to bed. Once they became members of the Junior School and entered the Lower First, they would have an hour of Prep and then some free time before Supper. Their bed time was an hour later at 8pm. The Middle and Senior Schools had the full 90 minutes Prep and free time after Supper until bed. 9pm for the Middles and 10pm for the Seniors. With the rising bell ringing at 7am this meant that even the Seniors had up to nine hours sleep, with more for younger pupils.

On this Monday, however, Miss Annersley was thinking of none of this. Instead she was pleased that she had completed her work. It was her turn to collect Robbie and he would want his tea when they got back to the cottage.

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Mar 09, 2005 8:40 pm; edited 4 times in total

#2: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 2:46 pm

Thanks Lesley, love the idea of Jem buying himself a train set! Less happy about the nasty phone call though...........and I still have no idea who the mysterious Jane Baker really is. Well, I do have a very strange theory, but it's almost certainly wrong. ETA: I missed the last bit as I posted at the same time, now I'm really wibbling, some things going to happen to Hilda........... Oh, and my theory is, as I suspected, totally and utterly wrong!

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

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 5:02 pm

Love Robbie joining them on the dais Now why should such a non threatening nice post get my heart rate gong and panic mode setting in? because I know Lesley - that's why Wink

#4: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 5:33 pm

Lesley just loves to leave us dangling from the edges of her cliffs, doesn't she?

#5: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 5:39 pm

*still bouncing on the trampoline* Lesleeeeeeeey...

#6: Author: Alex, Location: Manchester

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 5:56 pm

Love Robbie in church. Reminds me of one Good Friday when the little boy sitting behind me asked in a loud voice, "Is he dead yet?" A little girl I know used to stand up on the pew and shout "MORE" at the end of each hymn.

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

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 5:59 pm

Thanks Lesley Very Happy

Hope everything is ok in the Nursery Liz

#8: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 7:59 pm

Thanks Lesley You see, this is why RCS is such fun. EBD would never have let Jem have a train set all of his own! Very Happy

*wonders what Hilda is either going to run into on the way or find in the nursery* Confused

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

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 8:27 pm

*teeters on edge of cliff*

#10: Author: Nicci, Location: UK

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 9:19 pm

Wow. Finally caught up - about 20 pages. Lesley, you're just amazing. You really are. And it's still written in a chalet school-esque style - particularly the scene in the Hall. Love Jem coming across as a normal healthy-minded man who's really just a big kid at heart. And love his relationship with Madge. Robbie. Well, there aren't enough words to describe how he has my emotions going. And his Auntie Hilda and Auntie Nell are just wonderful. I always felt (since Catherine's Amy, and another drabble that had a scene with Nell playing with Joey's kids (can't remember the drabble name)) that those two would be great with kids. My mind is boggling at the possibilities of who Jane Baker could be. Every time I develop a theory, something contradicts it. Lesley, the one thing I've really realised in the last 20 pages is that you truly are very very clever. How you weave all these plots together, and think up connections etc is just incrediable. And you're a truly sparkly-shiny person.

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

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 10:34 pm

I'm really very suspicious about whatever it is that will come after that last line... whilst it could easily be 'Hilda noticed a particularly attractive flower' it could also be something far worse! Aggh. More please Lesley! Very Happy

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

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 11:31 pm

Nicci - you're very good for my ego! Embarassed

There was a minor delay when one of the office staff needed some signatures from Miss Annersley so that, by the time she entered the Nursery, the four boarders had already been taken across to the Dining Room for their tea. The other day pupils had already been collected and Robbie was sitting at a table with Carolyn Phillips busy with some building blocks. When he saw who had appeared he scrambled down and ran over,

“Come see, Miss Auntie,” he said quickly, “me an’ Miz Phipps is building a tower, come see!” Taking her hand he dragged her across to the table.

Miss Annersley smiled across at Carolyn Phillips, “Sorry I was a little late,”

“Not a problem, Hilda, I’ll leave you to it. Goodbye Robbie!”

“Bye Miz Phipps, see you ina morning.” Robbie added a few more blocks to the tower then looked up at the woman sat next to him. “Is we going home now, Auntie Hilda?”

Hilda Annersley smiled, “Are we going home, Robbie, you say are we going home, alright?”

“Yes Auntie Hilda, are we going home?”

“Yes we are, come on!” She stood up and held out her hand, Robbie got down from his chair and ran over, his little hand curling into hers. They walked out of the Nursery and out of the School. As they were walking across the grounds Robbie appeared to be deep in thought, eventually he spoke,

“Auntie Hilda? Are you Headmistress?”

Hilda smiled, “Yes Robbie, who told you that?”

“Jason, he’s my friend. He said you was, but he didn’t know what you do. What you do, Auntie Hilda? Do you teach lots?”

“Some classes Robbie, but not many.”

“What is your class?”

“I don’t have a class, neither Auntie Nell nor I have a class.”

“Nancy and Kaffie do,”

Miss Annersley looked at the little boy, “Did they say you could call them that?”

Robbie nodded, “But not in School,” he said quickly, “but we is outside School now!”

“Yes we are.”

There was silence for a little while, the pair reached the cottage and went inside. Before Robbie had a chance to rush out into the garden Hilda pointed him upstairs, “Get changed first Robbie,” She followed him upstairs and helped him out of his School uniform and into a superman tee-shirt and shorts. When he was dressed he sat next to Hilda while she changed his shoes. He was obviously still thinking deeply though as he suddenly spoke again.

“You and Auntie Nell don’t have classes, Auntie Hilda?”

“No Robbie, Auntie Nell is Head of the Science Department though, that’s a lot of work.”

“Is you Head of Department?”

“No Robbie.” There was silence for a while as he thought about that, then,

“You don’t do much, Auntie Hilda, do you?”

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Mar 09, 2005 8:42 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 11:34 pm

Giggles!!!! Oh bless Robbie's heart!!!!!!!

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

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 11:40 pm

that's great Lesley! Thanks! As usual!

#15: Author: Nicci, Location: UK

Posted: Sat Jan 15, 2005 11:40 pm

Fabulous. Kids eh. Lucky for Hilda that Nell wasn't around to hear that one!! Laughing

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

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 12:09 am

Oh how funny... talk about kids say the funniest things! giggling madly

#17: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 12:29 am

Thank you Lesley. Feel we are being lulled into a false sense of security here. Robbie is wonderful,very real his conversation with Hilda was fantstic. Thank you to Vikki too for fixing the broken link so I could read yesterday's post.

#18: Re: Just an Ordinary Woman - part five Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 3:38 pm

Quote:

Archived for length 15/01/05 Part One Part Two Part Three Part Four ~Vikki~

Now I know why I'm back on that ramble - didnt realise I had posted so many times on part 4 Embarassed

Lesley - you know have us all hanging by our nerve ends waiting for the cliff - I almost wish something awful would happen just to get it over with!

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

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 7:51 pm

“Nell! Come in quickly, it’s cold out!” Kathye opened the door to her house wide to admit her friend.

Nell or, to give her proper name, Catherine Taylor, moved gratefully into the small foyer and slipped off her shoes before following Kathye up the stairs.

“Family not here, Kathye?”

Kathye shook her head, “Darren has taken Megan to a party, I would have gone too, but you sounded quite urgent when you rang. Here, make yourself comfy, I’ll stick the kettle on, cup of tea?”

Nell nodded and made her way into the sitting room, a few minutes later Kathye appeared with two large mugs of tea, she handed one over to her friend and settled herself opposite.

“Now, what’s this all about?”

Nell took a breath, “You know I’ve been looking into the identity of this Jane Baker? For Madge Russell and the Real Chalet School? Well I think I’ve found out who it is, I mean her real identity.”

“Who is it?”

Nell shook her head, “I can’t say, not yet anyway, I’ve still got a few checks to make. But if it turns out I’m right - it’s going to be a dreadful shock for everyone.”

“After Matey and that woman who turned out to be Thekla’s daughter, I wouldn’t have thought anything would shock them now.”

“This will, because it’s not someone that you’d automatically feel was an enemy to the School and it will affect Hilda and Nell more than anyone, because they’ll have to deal with the fallout of knowing this woman’s identity.”

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Mar 09, 2005 8:43 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 8:08 pm

Someone who's come into the real world but the school hasn't been able to trace them - hey, did they ever trace Robin Humphries?????

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

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 8:14 pm

*smirks* if they did i missed that bit..... and she has no real family Twisted Evil

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

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 8:17 pm

You mean I might actually have come up with a real live genuine possibility??? Now I really am wibbling! Shocked

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

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 8:19 pm

*Sigh.* Robin Humphries was the very first from the chalet school itself to transfer over - she did so when Hilda et al fooled EBD into thinking that she'd died of TB, in fact, with drugs from the Internet, she had been cured and Jack Maynard had faked her death. She is now one of the members of the RCS Industries board and has special responsibilty for finding others that have transferred over, regardless of when or where.

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

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 8:21 pm

I think that's me and Frances both suitably rebuked - my fault for not re-reading the whole of RCS before making my comment! Razz

#25: Author: Katarzyna, Location: Preston, Lancashire

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 8:21 pm

Arghhhh, Lesley, I thought that was a new post!! *places thinking hat on head* Now if this Jane Baker is going to specifically upset Hilda and Nell..........hummm, I wonder! ... ...... ........ ........... Next bit please! Very Happy

#26: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 8:30 pm

I go away for a couple of days and find a general bouncing on tramplines. Well, I think you've knocked my candidate on the head. *bounces along with the rest.* btw - I love Robbie and his summing up of management!

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

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 9:12 pm

Lesley wrote:

*toddles of to find RCS 1*

#28: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 9:17 pm

Someone who is not an obvious enemy of the school. That hardly narrows the field does it? In fact, it only increases the options. *Scratches head in bemusement* Thanks Lesley.

#29: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 9:22 pm

Adds a chuckle over the childs-eye view of Hilda's position. Very Happy

) But the "Jane" situation sounds increasingly ominous -- as though it's someone whose identity'll hurt emotionally, on top of the efforts to scupper the whole RCS.

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

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 9:47 pm

On Wednesday morning the Assembly was a little longer than normal, Miss Annersley looked round at the students and Staff and smiled.

“I thought I would take the opportunity now, to go through all the activities that will be happening in the next nine days,” she said quickly. “As you are aware, this being the Christmas term, there are a number of entertainments arranged. Firstly, on Monday afternoon, we will be having a Carol Concert, I understand there are a number of new and traditional carols - the Music Staff have worked hard and, Miss Lawrence tells me that the entire School have done well, I look forward to hearing you sing.”

The Head glanced down at her notes before continuing, “The Concert will be held in the nearby Catholic Church, Our Lady of Sorrows, however, as we want an ecumenical service, that is,” Miss Annersley hastily added on seeing a number of the faces in front of her show puzzlement, “one that represents all the Christian world, we will have the service presided over by Father Parkes, however he will be joined by Father Crawford of St Barnabus. There will also be input from a Methodist minister and from the nearby Quaker House.”

“Now, on Tuesday, after lunch, we have the Nativity Play,” she paused to smile down at the babies of the Kindergarten, Nursery, Reception and Prep, noting in passing that Sheryl Burke had a tight hold of Robbie’s hand. “This will be followed by a Tea Party. On Wednesday, however, it is the turn of the Staff to entertain you, with the Staff Pantomime.”

At this there was a murmur of voices, the Head smiled, “I’m sure you will enjoy it,” she said blandly, “and the Staff have worked very hard, fitting in rehearsals in their free time.”

“Will you be in it, Miss Annersley?” The question came from one of the Prefects.

Miss Annersley nodded, “Yes, I’m afraid so,” she smiled, “and I have noted the names of the Staff responsible for my particular role.”

Had anyone thought to look, they would have been surprised by the reaction of two members of Staff; both Miss Derwent and Miss Ferrars gulped slightly and stared fixedly at the floor. As it was Miss Annersley’s comments elicited a chuckle and an increase in the already burning need to see the pantomime.

“To continue, on Wednesday evening there will be a party for the Middle and Senior School. It will be held in this Hall. I’m told that Mrs Russell will be here, perhaps you can prevail on her to man the turntable! Oh and the Juniors and Kindergarten will have their Christmas Party on Thursday afternoon.”

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Mar 09, 2005 10:53 pm; edited 1 time in total

#31: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 9:47 pm

Eek! *wibbles and bounces on the trampoline* Thanks you Lesley. eta - *sniggering at the last post* (but that doesn't stop my wibbling and bouncing Lesley... Twisted Evil

) Can't wait for the pantomime!

#32: Author: Nicci, Location: UK

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 10:20 pm

Um, I know I should check this for myself before commenting (wouldn't want to recieve a sigh of exasperation from Lesley) but have they found OOAOML? I can't recall hearing anything about her - and technically she'd have no family - her dad, gran and mum have died, and I s'pose Verity might not class as real family - oh but then there was a comment about her father having taught her business stuff - so that couldn't be her, cuz he died catching butterflies, or whatever it was he was doing. Hmm: peeps without family who aren't obvious enemies - Naomi Elton? Verity?? oh heck, hadn't even thought of her during my whole OOAOML theory. Erica Standish? Corney?? NO - surely not. Lesley, I can't take all the wibbling!!

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

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 10:25 pm

Well Nicci, of the four you named, none have been found, however, if you think back to Surfeit, Evvy Van Aldan had a fairly big role.(No sigh this time - I shouldn't really have said it last time - after all, I shouldn't expect anyone else to hold the entire RCS universe in their head! Wink

)

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

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 10:29 pm

Love the thought of Hilda taking revenge on the staff for her panto role...we still don't know what that is yet either do we??? Christmas celebrations sound exhausting. Glad they are all virtual. Look forward to fun as well as to some wibbles. Twisted Evil

#35: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 10:30 pm

at last post Given up altogether on working out Jane Baker is, instead am taking up posistion at bottom of cliff to hand out wine/coffee/hot choc/water as requested as people fall off. Thanks Lesley Very Happy

#36: Author: Ella, Location: Staffordshire

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 10:39 pm

*Putting in an advance order for hot choc please Josie. Fully expecting to fall headfirst off that cliff anytime soon.* HelpMe

Robbie's comments are brilliant - so funny! I'm joining the wibblers over "Jane Baker". Can think of all sorts of people I hope it isn't! Confused

Thank you Lesley!

#37: Author: Nicci, Location: UK

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 10:42 pm

Thanks for the patience Lesley!! I tried to follow Ally's link for the list of CS characters to try and figure it out that way but my 'puter wouldn't open it so I have to wait til tomorrow to use my housemates. I got really excited when I thought about Juliet Carrick, but then figured that would affect Madge more than Hilda and Nell as it wasn't in their time. I'm determined to figure out who Jane Baker is!! (heck, I can't even follow Eastenders - who am I kidding?) Rolling Eyes

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

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 11:03 pm

Have just caught up with this - I'm not going to try to work out who Jane is as I know it'll be wrong! Thanks Lesley!

#39: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Sun Jan 16, 2005 11:18 pm

Water, please, Josie! Sparkling if you've got it....! Thankyou, shiny Lesley! I'm none the wiser about Jane Baker except that I too wonder if it could be OOAOML...

#40: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 7:52 am

Thanks for the latest post, Lesley. I don't think it can be OOAML because it is Hilda and Nell who are specifically named as being upset when they find out and surely Jo would be the most upset in that case? Unless that was a red herring of course??? *Coffee, black and strong, please Josie.*

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

Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 9:30 am

May I just have a little gloat...having resisted for several hours! Twisted Evil

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

Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 9:35 am

Carolyn P wrote:

May I just have a little gloat...having resisted for several hours! Twisted Evil

Wondered how long it would take, Carolyn! Twisted Evil

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

Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 9:39 am

Lesley wrote:

Carolyn P wrote:

May I just have a little gloat...having resisted for several hours! Twisted Evil

Wondered how long it would take, Carolyn! Twisted Evil

Well I managed to sleep before gloating here! (note the here!!) It is the first time I've worked somehting out on RCS though, normally I'm 100% wrong so no wonder I'm gloating with the best of them.

#44: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 9:45 am

Well done, Carolyn! Loved Jem and the train - good to see he's a boy at heart! Very Happy

Also love Robbie's comments on mgmt - "out of the mouths of babes"!!! Lots of lovely posts - thanks, Lesley!

#45: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 12:53 pm

Thanks for that, Lesley. I hope Devon isn't too stressful. Perhaps you could find an internet cafe there?

#46: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 1:31 pm

Have fun in Devon! Very Happy

Look forward to more on your return Laughing

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

Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 2:38 pm

Eeek!!! Lesley you're not allowed to go away when you are in the middle of writing RCS!!!!! *sigh* Oh well, have a lovely time hunny, and make sure you DO have lots to post when you come back!!!!

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

Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 3:37 pm

*immediately timetables lesley's time in devon as cliff-descending practise* i STILL have no idea who jane is....

#49: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 3:38 pm

Carolyn P wrote:

May I just have a little gloat...having resisted for several hours! Twisted Evil

No, you may not! You have had time to come back down to earth since last night!!! Rolling Eyes

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

Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 3:49 pm

Am still as confused as everNice to see the local Quakers getting involved. Really looking forward to the pantomimeHope the weather in Devon is better than it is here

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

Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 3:59 pm

Hope you have a good time in Devon. Don't try lugging any huge cliffs back with you!

#52: Author: Cumbrian Rachel, Location: back in Oxford

Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 6:39 pm

Just caught up on many, many pages of this! Fantastic as ever. And I'm completely at a loss to guess who Jane Baker is. *resigning herself to not finding out for some time!*

#53: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 10:36 pm

Ah! so Lesley's absence is why this ended up near the bottom of the page... that had me bothered for a moment!!! Lesley, I'm sure you're getting fed up of hearing this, but I adore Robbie! *still chuckling over various lines*

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

Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 11:06 pm

This is going to drive me insane now.

#55: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Jan 17, 2005 11:24 pm

I'm too late to say it but have a good time Lesley! I'm glad someone has guessed because that means it is guessable - if you catch my drift. I'd begun to think it was so obscure, we say : "WHO?" when the final scene in the library with Miss Marple arrived. Rolling Eyes

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

Posted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 12:08 am

Hope you have a good time in Devon, Lesley Liz *gratefully accepting glass of wine from Josie*

#57: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 1:05 am

Thank you Lesley hope you are hving agood time in Devon. Still no nearer knowing who Jane Baker is.

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

Posted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 2:34 am

Hope you have fun in Devon Lesley. I'm still confubbled as to the evil one's identity! (Briefly wonders why Lesley is visiting cold meat before realising that not everyone eats Devon, some people live there (thus creating even more confused images))

#59: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 10:42 am

joins the majority who haven't got a clue as to evil woman's identity hope devon was fun

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

Posted: Tue Jan 18, 2005 3:37 pm

Hmmmm, I don't know, honestly. *joins the bemused CBBers* Just one thing though, how come the pruning always comes when I've just got into Inter-V? This is the second time I've been demoted. Evil or Very Mad

JackieJ

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

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 9:21 pm

*bumps this up to page 1 in eager anticipation of a new post from Lesley!* Very Happy

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

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 9:22 pm

Hi everyone - I'm back! Sorry for the wait, but I didn't get anything written while away - well apart from a later bit, but nothing for now.

The following day, a Thursday, Madge Russell received two telephone calls. The first she received only minutes after arriving at the office. She had just sat at her desk and opened the drawers of her desk when the telephone rang. Normally her secretary would have answered, but Madge had arrived early, therefore she answered herself.

“Madge Russell speaking, may I help you?”

“Oh, is that Madge Russell?” The line was quite crackly and quiet so Madge forgave the caller for her question,

“It is, who is this?”

“This is Nell,”

“Nell Wilson? It doesn‘t sound like you.”

The person on the other end of the line chuckled, “No, Nell from England,”

Madge smiled, “Oh, I see, are you calling from England now, Nell? There was no need, you could have emailed me.”

“No Madge, I had to call, the information I have cannot go on an email.” Nell sounded very grave.

Madge blinked, “I see, well you’d better tell me then.” There was a long silence, “Nell? Did you hear me? I said you’d better tell me.”

“I heard you Madge,” Nell replied, “But I can’t.” She continued before Madge could object, “I’m going to have to show you the evidence I’ve uncovered face-to-face, that’s the only way you’re going to believe it.”

“You want me to fly to England? I’m afraid I can’t do that at the moment, things seem to be coming to a head here.”

“Yes, I realise that, but I could take a week off, fly down to Melbourne. My passport is up-to-date.”

Madge thought for a while, “Do you really think it’s necessary, Nell?”

“Yes I do.”

“Very well,” Madge made an immediate decision, “I’ll get my secretary to arrange a flight as soon as possible, she’ll contact you with the details. Speak to her if you need help obtaining a visa. I must admit to wanting to see you as soon as possible. The information you have sounds very worrying.”

After a little more conversation Madge replaced the receiver and attempted to continue with her work, when her secretary appeared she passed on the tasks to her, enjoining her to arrange for as quick a flight as possible.

The second call occurred halfway through the morning, Madge’s secretary put the call through saying, “It’s your husband, Madge.”

Madge lifted the receiver, “Hello Jem, how’s Sydney? Is this company interested?”

For a time, Jem Russell had, since the Golf and Fitness Club had joined RCS Industries, found himself at a loose end. Rather than succumb to a life of leisure, however, he had found himself becoming interested in Madge’s work. Jem had not only appeared interested in how his wife worked, but had started to give good advice for when she was approaching companies. Recognising that her husband seemed to have an almost instinctive sense of the information companies wanted to know prior to agreeing to amalgamation, Madge had, initially, asked him to accompany her on her first visits to companies. After only a short time, she realised Jem was perfectly able to manage on his own.

“The company’s interested, Madge, but that’s not why I’m calling.” Jem’s tones were grave, “While I was here I managed to have a chat with an acquaintance of mine - he runs a Fitness Centre here in Sydney, we met at a sales meeting earlier in the year. We were both booked into the same hotel and, last night, had a meal together. Madge, his company have been taken over by another consortium, he managed to get a look at their books, they own 11% of RCS Industries.”

Madge shrugged slightly, then realised Jem couldn’t see her, “What’s the problem, Jem? A number of companies own shares.”

“Yes, but this consortium has just been taken over by another, the one owned by this Baker woman.” Jem’s voice sounded grim, “She’s got her 30%.”

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Mar 09, 2005 10:55 pm; edited 3 times in total

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

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 9:30 pm

Drops down cliff and bounces back. We should have known that was coming because of the earlier phone call...but even so!!!

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

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 9:31 pm

Aaaargh!!!! Nell, get on that plane QUICK!!!!!!

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

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 9:31 pm

Aaaaaaaargh!! *crashes over the edge of the cliff* I love this line though:

Quote:

After only a short time, she realised Jem was able to go on his own.

#66: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 9:34 pm

Nice one Lesley!!! Enjoy the reactions. Cool

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

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 9:34 pm

Catherine_B wrote:

Aaaaaaaargh!! *crashes over the edge of the cliff* I love this line though:

Quote:

After only a short time, she realised Jem was able to go on his own.

Yes alright - so I was rushing to finish and didn't read through properly Laughing

Will amend sentence! Rolling Eyes

#68: Author: Alex, Location: Manchester

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 9:38 pm

Oh no! Hurry up Nell and reveal all! ETA That is Nell via the medium of Lesley, obviously.

Last edited by Alex on Wed Jan 19, 2005 9:39 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 9:39 pm

Oh no!

I didn't mean to imply there was anything untoward! I just loved the idea that it was Jem who got supervised, after all those years of EBD's patronising "the menfolk will do the business" stuff!

#70: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 9:50 pm

I just love the way Madge is leading Jem now! I chuckled all the way down the cliff. *Throws Nell's clothes all higgedy piggledy into her case, stuffs the rest into a carrier bag and ignores all traffic regulations to get her to Heathrow.* Would you believe it, she woudn't tell me who Jane Baker is! Shocked

I hope you had an enjoyable stay in Devon, Lesley - whether for work or pleasure. Nice to see you back (for yourself as well as RCS).

#71: Author: Katarzyna, Location: Preston, Lancashire

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 9:58 pm

*wibbling ever so ever so slightly* I don't want to wibble too much - it would cause an earthquake! Am torn between chuckling at Jem and biting the remainder of my finger nails off! any chance of more story??????????

#72: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 10:58 pm

*hands out refreshments to everyone falling off the cliff*Knew there was a good reason I decided to stay down here! Laughing

Excellent return post Lesley, thanks Very Happy

Chuckling at Madge being the dominant one in the relationship now too. Hope you had a wonderful time in Devon, and it's lovely to have you back.

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

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 11:01 pm

That evening, about twenty past nine, a number of the students from Upper Four A, Miss Moore’s class, were making their way slowly back from the Staff House, where they had been visiting their Form Mistress.

“Well I hope we get to know the date before the end of term, it’s only just over a week away, now,” this from Evvy Van Alden, Form Prefect and one of the leaders of the form.

“Well even if it’s later, during the Christmas holidays,” Monica Holt put in, “those of you that live round here can let the rest of us know, can’t you?”

“Oh yes,” Heather Leach said excitedly, “after all, both Evvy and Kelly will be nearby, Evvy will be with Mrs Mackenzie in Manly, and Kelly will be right here.”

“Yes I should imagine Kelly will know straight away!” The others all turned to grin at Kelly Stevens. Before she could reply, however, another voice spoke,

“Explain, please, why you girls are here, twenty minutes after you should be in bed?”

The girls looked up in shock, only now registering the time and seeing both Miss Annersley and Miss Wilson standing regarding them. There was silence for a time then Evvy spoke, “Oh, Miss Annersley, Miss Wilson, we didn’t realise the time. We’ve been visiting Miss Moore and Colonel Stevens…”

The two women smiled at each other, Miss Annersley turned to the girls, “How is your father, Kelly?”

“Er, he’s getting better, Miss Annersley,” Kelly stammered, “We really didn’t know the time…”

“Alright girls, I’ll overlook it this time,” the Head’s voice was gentle, “after all, next term you will be Seniors and allowed another hour! Run back to your boarding house now.”

“If your housemistress asks,” Miss Wilson called after them, “tell her we gave permission for you to be late.”

The two friends watched as the girls acknowledged the order whilst running off, they smiled, “Come on,” said Miss Wilson, “we’ve only got a short time before getting back, Louise and Carol can’t baby-sit after ten.”

Inside Rosalind Moore’s room, a double room consisting of a sitting room and a bedroom, as befitted her Department Head status, they were quickly welcomed and provided with a drink. As well as Rosalind herself, and Geoff Stevens, the room held Ruth Derwent, Nancy Wilmot and Kathie Ferrars. As soon as everyone was settled Geoff spoke,

“I know we haven’t much time, so this is just to let everyone know our plans, with Miss Annersley’s permission, Rosalind and I hope to marry on Saturday 12th March, that is, a week before the end of term.”

Everyone turned to look at Hilda, she smiled, “Rosalind has already spoken to me of this. I have no objection, obviously I will expect Rosalind to ensure her classes do not miss out, but I’m certain she has already considered that.”

Rosalind nodded, “Yes, that’s no problem, and both Kathie and Nell have said they’ll cover anything important. We wanted it then so we could have the School come to the wedding.”

“And also so that we could have one week on honeymoon together, then collect Kelly for the second week.” This from Geoff, “I think she’s expecting to have to stay with a friend for both weeks, but we felt that would be too unfair.”

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Mar 09, 2005 10:56 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 11:07 pm

Thats lovely Lesley, but it doesn't resolve the cliff. Laughing

Not that I expected you to of course! Cool

#75: Author: Vikki as a guest!,

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 11:12 pm

AWWWWWWWWW! Lesley that was just adorable!!!!!!

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

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 11:18 pm

awwwwwwglad they're getting married at last!!*joins the wibbling about jane baker*WHO IS SHE?????????

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

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 11:29 pm

Boiiiiiing! reaches end of bunji cord and bounces around at the bottom of the cliff, just above the pile of CBBers who were also caught by said cliff. Brilliant as ever...

#78: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2005 11:37 pm

awww, luverly Laughing

Thanks Lesley

#79: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 4:57 am

Yes, very nice about the wedding, but, but .... hopes Nell has something on this Baker woman... and that someone figures out how to stop her, QUICKLY ... and that we don't all have heart attacks when we hear who "Jane" really is.

#80: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 7:57 am

Looking forward to the wedding! Has Nell arrived yet?

#81: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 9:23 am

Marvellous -particularly the lines about Jem!! Laughing

#82: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 9:50 am

Awww, lovely about the wedding, b-b-b-but... the cliff!!!!!!!!!!!!! *wibbles*

#83: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 9:53 am

wibbling madly hurry up on that plane Nell so that Madge can work out a way to get control again glad rosalind and geoff are taking kelly on honeymoon, very thoughtful thanks Lesley

#84: Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham

Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 1:27 pm

Hopes that Lesley will reveal all by lunchtime tomorrow or I will have to put up with a gloating Rachael all weekend Rolling Eyes

Last edited by Kathye on Fri Jan 21, 2005 7:38 am; edited 1 time in total

#85: Author: Gem, Location: Saltash/Aberystwyth

Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 2:03 pm

*falls head over heels down cliff* Shocked

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

Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 9:03 pm

*rope snags tight* She's got her 30%, *counts up the money donated for the consortium and checks the RCS share price* Who is she? *wibbles* JackieJ PS: More please Smile

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

Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 9:29 pm

JackieJ wrote:

Who is she? *wibbles*

Hehehehehehehe! Twisted Evil

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

Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 9:56 pm

Naughty Carolyn! Twisted Evil

The following morning say Madge Russell paying a flying visit to the School. She spent the next hour or so ensconced in Miss Annersley’s Study with the Head and Deputy Head. She was able to tell them that Neil Hillier had been able to confirm Jem’s information, ‘Jane Baker’ had enough shares to make an offer, and once the Stock Exchange found out, later that afternoon, would be required to make one within 48 hours.

“We think it’s likely that she’ll leave it until Sunday,” Madge said quickly, “not least because that will give her time to travel over here from the States,”

“You think that’s what she will do?” This from Hilda.

Madge nodded, “It’s what I would do, whenever any company joins us I travel to them, it’s the right thing to do, and it’s good business.”

“You mentioned that Nell from England was travelling down here?” Nell Wilson looked up, “when will she get here?”

“Late tomorrow night.” Madge stood up to leave, “I’m sorry Hilda, Nell, I tried to stop her but…”

“Madge stop right there, we don’t blame you, you did everything you could.” Nell was quite sharp.

“But Jem told you what she threatened, that she was going to destroy the School.” Madge sounded almost inconsolable.

“What does that matter?” Hilda smiled, “Of course we’ll be sad, should it come to an end, but the important things will still be there. We will still have all our friends, a reasonable amount of money, our health…”

“And each other.” Nell put in gruffly, Hilda turned to smile at her partner.

“Yes Nell, each other,” she confirmed softly.

They sent Madge away somewhat mollified and returned to their work. As Hilda was looking after Robbie it was the Deputy Head’s turn to take the evening meal. She finally returned to the cottage a little before eight pm.

She called softly as she went in and heard Hilda’s answer from the sitting room. As she walked in she took in the sight. Hilda was sat on the sofa, but she was not alone, on her lap, with his head nestled into her shoulder and an arm round her neck, lay Robbie. The little boy was in his pyjamas and was almost asleep, Hilda was softly rocking him. As Nell appeared the Head looked across and smiled,

“Hello Nell, everything alright?”

Nell sat on one of the small stools opposite, “No problems, Hilda, has he been a handful?”

Hilda considered for a time, “Perhaps,” she said thoughtfully, “He was no trouble at Nursery, well apart from learning to hang upside down on the climbing frame. He gave both Carolyn and Sheryl palpitations then apparently. Since we’ve been home? He’s had two minor tantrums, one when he didn’t want to eat his peas and one when it was time for him to get out of the bath. He totally destroyed my army of dinosaurs, and then laughed at me. He’s watched one particular video of Postman Pat on no less than seven occasions, and I will not be responsible for my actions if you play it again, Nell!”

Nell Wilson grinned and tried, most unsuccessfully, to look innocent. “Anything else?”

Hilda thought, “He’s given me countless kisses and cuddles, he sat on my lap while I read him a story, he has rivalled anyone at the School for the number of questions he’s asked!” She smiled, “He’s had a very full day.”

“Why’s he still here?”

Hilda’s face darkened slightly, “He went up to bed at his normal 7pm, but didn’t seem able to sleep, I checked in on him a little later, he was quietly crying under the bed clothes.”

Nell looked shocked and moved to sit beside her friend, stroking the little boy’s head, “What was wrong?”

“He’d though that today was the day we were supposed to pick up Cherry, he thought we’d forgotten.”

“But we’ve had a big calendar out in the kitchen, so he could see the day!”

“I know, but for some reason he thought it was today.” Hilda smiled slightly, “So I carried him back down and showed him the calendar again and explained. Eventually I got him to see that we’d be meeting Cherry tomorrow.”

“’Morrow, Auntie Hilda,” Robbie’s very sleepy voice said quickly, both women looked down at the boy.

“Yes Robbie, tomorrow we go and collect Mummy, I promise.”

“You pomise too, Auntie Nell?”

Nell bent to kiss Robbie’s soft cheek, “I promise too, little man, now let’s get you back up to bed so tomorrow will come quicker.”

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Mar 09, 2005 10:59 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 10:06 pm

Are you gloating Carolyn *looks suspiciously*, hmmm, maybe I should call for Uto. Lovely update though Lesley. But I still want to know who Jane is? JackieJ

#90: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 10:08 pm

AAwwwww!!! That's lovely!

#91: Author: Nicci, Location: UK

Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 10:28 pm

Thank you Lesley

#92: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 10:40 pm

JackieJ wrote:

Are you gloating Carolyn *looks suspiciously*, hmmm, maybe I should call for Uto. JackieJ

I think she may already be got. Isn't there someone with her initial just arrived?

#93: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 11:02 pm

Oh, Robbie is sweet! Stillhaving a wibble about Jane Baker but love the way Hilda and Nell are quite prepared to start again. Now that is maturity!

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

Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 11:34 pm

Love the bit with Robbie, Lesley! But PLEASE put us out of our misery about Jane Baker and the takeover! PLEASE?

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

Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 11:38 pm

Vikki wrote:

Love the bit with Robbie, Lesley! But PLEASE put us out of our misery about Jane Baker and the takeover! PLEASE?

Eeeerrrrrmmmm no. Twisted Evil

“Auntie Hilda! Auntie Hilda! It’s tomorrow, get up, got to go get Mummy.” The shrill little voice penetrated a fairly deep sleep, Hilda opened her eyes. Beside her bed was a small figure.

“Robbie?” Hilda was a little puzzled, “Robbie, what are you doing out of bed?”

“It’s tomorrow, quick, must get Mummy, you promised!”

Hilda looked at the clock on her bedside table, she blinked, “Robbie, it’s ten to five in the morning, it’s far too early. Mummy will still be asleep.”

“But you promised!” Robbie’s face clouded over.

“Yes, but later.” Hilda sat up and looked at the little boy stood next to her, she drew back the duvet, “Get in here, Robbie, and I’ll tell you a story. Then when we go to meet Mummy you can tell her.”

Robbie climbed up onto the bed and snuggled in, Hilda cuddled him. “Once upon a time, there were three little pigs, and they decided to build houses, but there was a big bad wolf and he wanted to eat the pigs…”

A short time later, just as Hilda had reached the end of the story, Nell appeared, “I might have guessed it would be you, Trouble!” she said, smiling, “When I was woken by voices I thought, now who could that be?” As she reached the bed she bent down to tickle Robbie, he giggled.

“It was me, Auntie Nell. I woked Auntie Hilda up!”

“Did you indeed?” Nell looked across at the Head.

“Well he did a reasonable imitation,” came the dry reply, “Seems that I promised him we’d be getting Mummy when it was tomorrow.”

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Mar 09, 2005 11:01 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Thu Jan 20, 2005 11:54 pm

giggles ... bless Robbie - hes such a sweetie. Getting slightly concerned over Jane Baker though ....

#97: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 1:40 am

Getting very concerned now but glad you hadn't forgotten Robie and Cherry! Still have no clues to Jane Baker.

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

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 4:09 am

Poor Hilda, too many British imports are not good for you (I'm talking about Postman Pat DVD's). I'm virtually sending you a complete collection of The Wiggles (and to really annoy, oops I mean for alternate entertainment, adding a couple of Hi5 DVD's)

#99: Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 7:51 am

Miss Di wrote:

I'm virtually sending you a complete collection of The Wiggles (and to really annoy, oops I mean for alternate entertainment, adding a couple of Hi5 DVD's)

Ohh can you send some to us as well, Megan Loves the Wiggles and Hi 5. Yay thanks for the updates Lesley, I get the feeling there probably wont be anymore updates before lunchtime now..... hmmmmm might have to pack some torture implements, or just threaten not to leave Laughing

#100: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 9:05 am

There's no problem with her, Hilda and Nell will sort her out. Well, they have only to collect Cherry, take her back to the school, settle her in her cottage, then change into their Superwoman outfits!

Last edited by Jennie on Fri Jan 21, 2005 10:01 am; edited 1 time in total

#101: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 9:19 am

Ooooh - this is getting exciting!! *speeds Nell's plane on*

#102: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 10:01 am

Just had the awful thought that Hilda and Nell are really going to miss Robbie when they have to give him back to his mother.

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

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 10:10 am

I'm going to Melbourne!!!!! Very Happy

Thank you Lesley - manic few days so i've been reading just not posting...well I had to prepare to go to Melbourne! Twisted Evil

And of course I couldn't tell you before I'd spoken to Madge Pat!!! Twisted Evil

#104: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 12:05 pm

*hoping our Nell can save the day!* Bless Robbie. Hope everything goes okay when they go to collect Cherry. Thanks Lesley, very shiny as always. Very Happy

#105: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 1:02 pm

*still wibbling* But Robbie is sooooooooo sweet!!! Thanks Lesley Very Happy

#106: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 1:40 pm

Just caught up on lots of this. Thanks Lesley. But am wibbling lots about Jane Baker

#107: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 7:41 pm

oh that's so lovely!!!!!! Like Jennie, I think H&N are really gonna miss Robbie!! but I'm looking forward to seeing the reunion with Cherry and cherry settlinh down... unless Jane Baker comes along and fouls it all up...

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

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 8:46 pm

Due to the early awakening, the three were ready to go very early. They arrived at the prison before 8.30 and parked on the drive opposite the main doors. Cherry Elliott was scheduled for release at nine am. Robbie was in such a state of excitement he wasn’t sure what to do with himself, running up and down the drive, then returning to cuddle either Hilda or Nell. Eventually they gave him one of his toy planes to play with and Robbie spent the next twenty minutes or so dive-bombing the car. Performing some complicated landing around the back of the car, Robbie was suddenly called by Hilda,

“Robbie, come here!”

He ran round quickly and, as he passed Nell she caught hold of him and turned him to face the Prison. Framed there by the heavy metal doors stood a tall, slim figure. She was carrying a large box and peering round anxiously. As her eyes alighted upon the car and the three figures her face relaxed into a smile. At the same time Robbie suddenly saw her,

“Mummy!” he ran across the intervening space as fast as his legs could carry him, Cherry saw him at the same time and, dropping her box to the floor, ran over to meet him. As they met Cherry swung her son up in her arms, smothering him with kisses. Robbie, his little face alight with excitement, kissed her back, his arms tightly wound around her neck. Hilda and Nell walked over to join them, as they got close they could hear Robbie talking,

“An’ you won’t go ‘way agin, Mummy, you promise?”

“I promise Robbie, we’re going to be together now, you’ll see.” Cherry had tears sliding down her cheeks but a huge grin on her face as she snuggled into her son’s cheek. She looked up and saw the other two women, “Thank you, Hilda, thank you Nell, more than I can say, for looking after him. He looks so well, and he’s got new clothes and trainers on and everything.”

Hilda smiled, “Our pleasure, Cherry, we have loved looking after him.”

Nell also smiled as she reached down to pick up Cherry’s box, “He’s a credit to you child, a lovely little boy.”

There was a slight noise from the door to the prison; Cherry turned to see the Senior officer, Miss Shaw, standing there,

“Miss Shaw?” Cherry’s voice was slightly worried.

Miss Shaw smiled, “Good luck for the future, Miss Elliott,” she said quietly.

Cherry nodded and returned the smile, “Thank you Miss Shaw,” She turned to Robbie, “Say goodbye to the nice lady, Robbie,”

Robbie looked across at the prison officer, “’Bye nice lady,” he said, waving, “someone be here to take you home soon.”

Miss Shaw laughed, “Thank you Robbie, look after Mummy, won’t you?” She nodded to Hilda and Nell then withdrew back into the prison.

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Mar 09, 2005 11:03 pm; edited 2 times in total

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

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 8:49 pm

Awwww, how sweet. Robbie is lovely, and so is Miss Shaw.

#110: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 8:52 pm

Awwwwww! I LOVE Robbie. That was lovely thank you Lesley Very Happy

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

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 8:55 pm

Awww. Robbie is so cute!!!!Glad nothing's gone wrong with Cherry's release but WHAT ABOUT JANE??????

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

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 9:03 pm

Awwwwwww!!!!!Lesley, that was just adorable!!!!!!!!!! Thank you hunny!!!!

#113: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 9:15 pm

I have just read through from the beginning and still ended on a cliff.Who is Jane?Nikkie

#114: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 10:26 pm

Aaww! I can forget the worries about Jane for now! This is what really matters! ((((Miss Shaw)))) and (((( Hilda, Nell, Robbie and Cherry)))) *Requests a happy tears smiley* Thank you Lesley, I was really worried that it wouldn't happen to schedule.

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

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 10:41 pm

Kathye wrote:

Ohh can you send some to us as well, Megan Loves the Wiggles and Hi 5.

I don't suppose she likes Barney does she. A was really into him and I can't find anyone who wants the stacks of videos we have. I have been forbidden on pain of torture and a slow death to show them to my nephew...actually even that may be worth it to actually get rid of the things.

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

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 10:52 pm

That was lovely Lesley, really touching. Now are you going to tell us who Jane Baker is? Evil or Very Mad

JackieJ

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

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 11:02 pm

*smug grin* Well, following a protracted exchange with Lesley via PM, I now have her full permission to gloat!!!!!!! Very Happy

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

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 11:12 pm

Vikki wrote:

*smug grin* Well, following a protracted exchange with Lesley via PM, I now have her full permission to gloat!!!!!!! Very Happy

But Vikki can you really claim gloating rights considering how many guesses you sent to Lesley...I mean one of them HAD to be right. Some of us worked it out!

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

Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 11:20 pm

Well I only guessed a SMALL percentage of the possibilities...... (and however I got there, I STILL know who Jane is!!!!) Wink

ETA And Lesley SAID I was allowed to gloat!!!

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

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 12:33 am

Of course I may decide to change my mind over who Jane is....... Twisted Evil

#121: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 12:47 am

LESLEY! I was about to go to bed and noticed what I thought was a bonus post Sad

*flounces off to bed in a sulk*

#122: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 2:01 am

assorted gloaters and thanks Lesley for a bootiful Robbie-Cherry reunion.* *continues worrying about the Jane the Ominous*

#123: Author: Katarzyna, Location: Preston, Lancashire

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 8:13 am

Seriously considering some form of torture for Carolyn at the Northern Gather if we don't know who Jane Baker is by then! Laughing

Lesley.......I know your up and around, any chance of putting us out of our misery??

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

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 10:12 am

Sorry Kate - not yet! Twisted Evil

Cherry looked across at Hilda, “That was nice of her,” she said smiling, “Are we going to the School now?”

Hilda frowned slightly, “Well that depends on you, Cherry,” she said thoughtfully, “Nell and I planned to return to the School, but you may have other plans.”

Cherry looked a little confused, “I don’t understand…”

Hilda leant across and placed an arm around her shoulders, “Cherry, I don’t want to be making decisions for you, it’s your choice. You may prefer to have some time on your own with Robbie, to go somewhere else in Melbourne. You’re going to have to get used to the fact that you are Master…” Hilda paused and smiled, then corrected herself, “…Mistress of your own destiny.”

Cherry thought for a moment, “You think I might have got used to not thinking for myself while in there?” She indicated the prison.

“It’s possible,” Hilda smiled, “I was there less than a week, yet even in that time I could feel the pressure to conform, to allow others to think for you.”

Cherry thought for a few seconds, “Thanks Hilda, but I think I’d like to go back with you now. I want to see where I’m going to live and work, and have Robbie show me where he’s been staying. But thanks for the opportunity to do something else.”

Hilda nodded and they all moved to the car.

Back at the School the car was waved through by the Security Guard on the gate when he saw both Hilda and Nell in the front. Hilda stopped the car and opened the window,

“You have a Pass in the name of Cherry Elliott, Tom?”

“Oh, yes Miss Annersley, I’ll fetch it,” He disappeared into the gatehouse and returned with a temporary pass, he handed it to Cherry, “You’ll need to stop off in the Gatehouse sometime over the weekend, Miss Elliott,” he explained, “so you can have your photo done and sign for a permanent Pass. But this one will allow access to the site and main School buildings.”

Cherry took the pass, placing it in her pocket. Just as Hilda was about to drive off another figure appeared, “Hilda, is this Robbie’s mum?”

Hilda looked across at John Coates, “It is, Cherry, this is John Coates, Head of Security on site, John, this is Cherry Elliott.”

“Hello Cherry,” John smiled, “You have a lovely little boy.” He looked inside at Robbie who responded.

“Hello Mr Shane’s Dad!”

Cherry smiled, “Hello John, this is all a bit new for me yet.”

“Oh, you’ll soon get used to it.” He turned to leave then suddenly returned, “Have we met before, Cherry? Your face is a little familiar.”

Cherry looked puzzled, “I don’t think so,” she said.

“Never mind, it’ll come to me, I never forget a face,” he waved as the car drove off.

At the cottage Robbie dragged Cherry all over showing her the garden, his bedroom, all his toys and everything else he could think of! Finally they went back into the sitting room where Hilda and Nell were sat. As Cherry sat on the sofa and pulled Robbie onto her lap, Hilda passed across lemonade for them both.

“Cherry, you may have your own place straight away,” she said, “Although many of the Domestic Staff are local, we do have some that live-in, they have their own Boarding House.”

“Is there room for Robbie and myself?”

“There is, Karen, she’ll be your manager, has a double room that will be appropriate, it has a small box room attached that will be suitable for Robbie’s bedroom, as well as a bedroom for yourself and a sitting room. You may move in today if you wish.”

Cherry nodded, but waited, sure that the women sat opposite were going to add something.

Nell spoke, “We don’t want you to think we want to get rid of you though Cherry, you are welcome to stay here for as long as you wish. And in fact, we wondered if you would like to stay here until at least after Christmas. That way you’ll have a couple of weeks to settle in and work out what equipment and furnishings you’ll want for your own place.”

“There’s only one week of term to go Cherry,” this from Hilda, “So you will not be expected to start work until the new term, and if you decide to stay here for a few weeks we can easily put a camp bed into Robbie’s room.”

“Oh yes, Mummy, can I sleep onna camp bed?” This from Robbie.

Cherry thought for a moment, “I would like to stay here for Christmas,” she said finally, “If you’re sure I’ll not be in the way?”

Hilda and Nell smiled, “Not at all,” Hilda replied, “we’ll be delighted to have you.”

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Mar 09, 2005 11:05 pm; edited 3 times in total

#125: Author: Nina, Location: Peterborough, UK

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 10:25 am

*wibbles* If John met Cherry where I think he did ... I hope he doesn't say! (won't do his image much good either Embarassed

) and hope it doesn't affect how he treats her. Of course, I could be completely wrong ... but enjoying this enormously anyway Cool

Oh, and please shiny Lesley - WHO IS JANE?!

#126: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 11:27 am

*Thinking the same as Nina* Naughty John! Wink

Thanks for the update Lesley!

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

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 11:33 am

not necessarily John - he was a cop before he became head of security. Therefore it's quite possible he arrested her for prostitution (or something else) Shocked

#128: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 12:08 pm

at above defamation of poor John's character!!! Wink

Thanks Lesley, so glad nothing went wrong with Cherry's release and that she's decided to stay with H&N for a while. Now, back to Jane Baker...

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

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 12:36 pm

So glad she has decide to stay, that should give her plenty of time to settle down and for the story to be resolved before she starts in for the next term...will she feature in the next story as well?

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

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 12:38 pm

Oh come on Lesley! John's an ex-cop, he's probably arrested Cherry at some stage, yeah yeah yeah, tell us more about Jane Baker!!!

#131: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 12:52 pm

Lovely to see Cherry out of prison and looking forward to seeing her settling in. John's comments could be anything or nothing. You never know with Lesley Rolling Eyes

*Hastily adds that your devious mind is much admired, Lesley Laughing

#132: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 1:32 pm

Kim wrote:

not necessarily John - he was a cop before he became head of security.

Stop spoiling our fun!! It's not often I descend in to the gutter, but when I do, I do it properly and enjoy myself thoroughly!! Laughing

#133: Author: Nicci, Location: UK

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 1:48 pm

thank you dear lesley. am chuckling over the opposing theories of the John-Cherry connection!! hey, how about a little romance between Cherry and Shane??

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

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 2:51 pm

For some reason I thought John Coates didn't know Cherry, he 'knew' her mum... If my wild imaginings are right, Nicci might well get

Quote:

... a little romance between Cherry and Shane??

Before Lesley starts telling us about Cherry's daddy...

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

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 5:11 pm

*wonders if Lyanne has been watching too much Neighbours lately..... Wink

* I was wondering if there might turn out to be some sort of family tie between them. Some sort of cousinship maybe? (wow! for a change my mind didn't head straight for the gutter! Wink

)

#136: Author: Nicci, Location: UK

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 5:40 pm

Vikki wrote:

(wow! for a change my mind didn't head straight for the gutter! Wink

)

there's a first time for everything my dear (and probably a last in this case...)

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

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 5:44 pm

*seizes shiny metal tipped brollie and poke

's Nicci!*

#138: Author: Nicci, Location: UK

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 5:48 pm

*giggles cuz it tickles*

#139: Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 8:43 pm

Thinks that there has been far too much yibbling on this thread while I've been away and not enough posting of drabble. Lesley can we have some more please, I really want to know who Jane is, I did try to torture it out of Rachael but even after sleep deprevation and copious amounts of Alcohol she still wouldnt tell Rolling Eyes

Kathye - Off to bed Wink

#140: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 8:52 pm

Is there a list of characters that crossed over and/or those who can't be traced? I have read all the rcs in the past 5 days( I have a life really!, I've been off work as I'm full of cold and was bored sat home) they are very addictive but now I'm trying to guess on Jane. Mary-Lou/a Bettany/a Russell? Thanks Lesley

#141: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2005 10:16 pm

Aargh! I've just caught up on what seemed to be millions of excellent posts - but was sure that when I finally got the latest one, we would know who Jane Baker was by now! This suspense may well keep me awake tonight (if the baby doesn't do it anyway!!)

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

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 12:10 am

*deeply shocked that Lesley has not posted anymore yet!!!!!!!!!!!! Shocked

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

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 12:20 am

she's enjoying keeping everyone in suspense, Vikki

#144: Author: Cathy, Location: Sydney, Australia

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 12:27 am

OOAOML was never traced, was she? Maybe it's her -- although I can't quite see a motive. Please put us out of our misery Lesley!

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

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 1:10 am

Lesley!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WHO is JANE BAKER ???????. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE BTW its great as ever but this cliff is just getting a bit tooo much

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

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 1:35 am

The rest of the morning was spent helping Cherry to unpack and arranging for a second bed to go into the third bedroom. As well as the belongings Cherry had brought with her from the prison, she had kept a great deal in storage. When it had become obvious that she was to receive a custodial sentence, the Social Worker assigned to Cherry’s case had arranged for her clothes and possessions to be placed in secure storage. Cherry had been grateful as the flat she had been living in was only rented, with her gone it was likely that otherwise her belongings would have been stolen or thrown away. Hilda had arranged retrieval of the stored items earlier in the week.

Cherry sat unpacking the boxes and sorting the items; a great many of them were being discarded. Cherry deciding to take the opportunity to get rid of anything that could remind her of her former life. Robbie, content to have his Mummy home, was ‘helping her’ although his help was actually hindering her efforts. Surprisingly however, Cherry didn’t seem to be at all upset at Robbie’s efforts, instead taking the opportunity every time he came close, of grabbing hold of him and tickling him mercilessly before blowing raspberries on his belly. Robbie’s shrieks of laughter could be heard by Hilda and Nell even sat out in the garden!

Hilda Annersley smiled as she looked up at the open window of the third bedroom where Cherry and Robbie were playing, “I wonder how much unpacking is getting done!” she said quietly.

Nell returned the smile, “I don’t think it matters, it’s just lovely to hear that. Regardless of our other problems, with this projected takeover, at least this has worked out properly.”

Hilda nodded absently, deep in thought, after a time she turned to Nell, “Of course, if this takeover does go ahead and this place is scheduled for destruction, Cherry will have neither a home or a job. When we were speaking to Madge yesterday that hadn’t occurred to me.”

Nell looked over, aghast, “But that could mean she’d lose…” A loud shriek of laughter from both Cherry and Robbie interrupted her, and both Hilda and Nell looked up at the window again.

Hilda nodded, “Yes, I know, we’ll have to think of a contingency plan for her, in case of the worst happening.”

“You don’t plan to tell her, do you Hilda?”

“No, not unless it becomes inevitable. I don’t think either of us want to spoil their day.” They sat listening to the laughter for a while longer.

By lunchtime the early cloud had disappeared and it was a lovely day; a phone call from Alison Martin prompted Hilda to interrupt the games,

“Cherry, Nell and I are going down to the beach, some of the Prefects are having a barbeque and have invited us along. They asked me to pass on the invitation to Robbie and yourself.”

Cherry looked up, “On the beach, Hilda? I don’t know if I’ve got a costume here…”

Hilda thought for a second, “You’re about the same size as Louise,” she said, “just a little taller, she may have a spare, would you like me to ask her?”

Cherry thought for a moment, she looked down at Robbie, “Would you like to go to the beach, Robbie?”

“Oh, yes pease, Mummy!”

“Please, Robbie,” Cherry replied, she looked up and smiled at the Head, “If you’re sure she won’t mind, Hilda, then we’d love to come.”

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Mar 09, 2005 11:07 pm; edited 1 time in total

#147: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 4:22 am

Surely no "Jane" could be rotten enough to spoil this. Could she?

#148: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 2:50 pm

This is Lesley. I wouldn't bet on it, Kathy.... *still grinning at the Nicci/Vikki exchange* BTW, I'm with the John's an ex-cop crew.... (Kat, you should be ashamed of yourself!! ROFL

:8oo)

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

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 4:27 pm

The rest of the day was spent on the beach, Louise had invited Cherry up to her room to try on swimming costumes and find one that fitted. The two girls, they were almost the same age, had started off by being shy and quiet with each other, however Robbie had soon stopped that, asking Louise for a cuddle while they were waiting for Cherry to get changed. Louise then introduced her to the rest of the Prefects. By the time everyone was on the beach Cherry had been included in the same way as Robbie. While the barbeque was been cooked Cherry and some of the others kept him away from the cooking area. When Hilda and Nell had walked down to the shore for a swim he had accompanied them, proudly showing his mummy the new water wings and life jacket. Cherry had taken him into the water on her back and then, once he was swimming, the four had played for the next thirty minutes or so before the sea became a little too rough for the little boy.

On the way back in, with Robbie sat on Nell’s back and chattering nineteen to the dozen, Nell had turned to Hilda, “We could do with a swimming pool, Hilda, if it’s too cold or too rough many of the students are not able to bathe. And it’s not always easy to teach little ones to swim in the ocean.”

Hilda looked across, “Perhaps, Nell, we’ll need to await certain events before placing that before the Board though.”

Later that evening, back at the cottage, Hilda and Nell sat in their sitting room watching TV, upstairs they could hear wild splashing and laughter from the bathroom as Robbie had his bath. They looked at each other and smiled,

“I’m going to really miss that little boy,” Hilda said softly, “the last two weeks have been wonderful with him.”

“I know, I feel the same,” Nell sighed, “never felt broody before, or thought that I’d missed out, but now…”

“Yes.” Hilda replied quickly.

A little later a very clean and dry Robbie, dressed in pyjamas and slippers appeared at the door, holding Cherry’s hand.

“Robbie has something he would like to ask both of you,” Cherry said solemnly.

Both women turned to look at the little boy, “I got lots of Aunties,” Robbie said quickly, “but I never had a Grandma, will you be my Grandmas?”

Hilda and Nell looked at each other in astonishment then looked across at Cherry, she nodded, “We were talking while he was being dried,” she explained, “he told me about his friend Jason at Nursery, his Grandmother came to collect him. He asked why he hadn’t got any grandmothers. I told him Grandmothers look after Mummies and little boys. We both thought that described both of you.”

There was silence for some time, neither Hilda nor Nell able to speak, eventually Hilda cleared her throat, “Yes, Robbie, if that’s what you want, we’ll be your Grandmas.” Nell nodded her agreement.

Robbie grinned, he ran across and clambered onto the sofa, pushing his way in to sit between them, “You’s Grandma Nell, and you’s Grandma Hilda,” he said pointing, “Only, I might not ‘member alla time and call you Auntie.”

That’s alright Robbie,” Nell said kissing him, “we’ll answer to anything!”

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Mar 09, 2005 11:09 pm; edited 1 time in total

#150: Author: Katarzyna, Location: Preston, Lancashire

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 4:33 pm

Ah, Bless! So cute! Super grans at the ready!!! Now about this Jane Baker person............

#151: Author: Nina, Location: Peterborough, UK

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 4:37 pm

Awwwwww that's so lovely Very Happy

still nothing about Jane though

Kat wrote:

Kim wrote:

not necessarily John - he was a cop before he became head of security.

Stop spoiling our fun!! It's not often I descend in to the gutter, but when I do, I do it properly and enjoy myself thoroughly!! Laughing

Not often I do either! First thing that came to mind though Embarassed

Lyanne wrote:

For some reason I thought John Coates didn't know Cherry, he 'knew' her mum... If my wild imaginings are right, Nicci might well get Quote: ... a little romance between Cherry and Shane?? Before Lesley starts telling us about Cherry's daddy...

Another one watching Neighbours Cool

#152: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 5:32 pm

Aah! How sweet that they should be called Grandma! I do hope nothing horrid happens to spoil their new life. Thank you Lesley. That was really lovely.

#153: Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 6:04 pm

They are all just so sweet, hope Cherry isnt affected by evil "Baker" woman. mmmmm now all we need is for Cherry to meet a nice "doctor" and have lots more ickle "Robbie's" Laughing

Oh and we need for Lesley to stop drawing out the tension and tell us who the mysterious woman actually is !!!!

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

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 7:33 pm

OK, final guesses now, because the next post explains all - well it will when I've written it! Twisted Evil

The following morning, fairly early, saw Hilda and Nell out for a run, they had both missed their training sessions over the past two and a half weeks and decided to begin again immediately. Unfortunately, due to them missing training for so long, they found that their fitness levels had dropped dramatically, and the normal run took almost twice as long as normal. On entering the cottage though, a nice surprise met them, Cherry and Robbie had made breakfast and coffee, cereals, croissants and jam, and fruit was waiting. The four sat together to eat.

Afterwards Cherry insisted that she wash up, while the older women quickly took it in turns to have a shower and get changed. It was as they joined Cherry and Robbie in the sitting room, ready to discuss the day’s programme, that the telephone rang. Hilda answered it, after a short conversation she replaced the receiver and turned a suddenly grave face toward Nell.

“That was the Gatehouse, there is a visitor asking to see the pair of us, her name is Jane Baker.”

It was only a very short time later, both Hilda Annersley and Nell Wilson were sat in the Head’s Study, awaiting their visitor. They had immediately tried to contact Madge Russell, however there was no-one answering her home number. They’d left a message. Joey Maynard, the fourth permanent Director, had been contacted and had agreed to travel across to the School immediately, she had also said she would try to get hold of Madge via her mobile number. The women waited in silence.

A knock on the door and one of the Security Guards appeared, “Miss Annersley? This is Ms Baker,” He ushered in a woman and closed the door behind him. Both inhabitants of the Study looked across at the visitor, they saw a woman in her mid-seventies, she was of average height, but very thin, almost painfully so. Her hair was an almost white-blonde and her large eyes a brilliant blue. Her face was exquisitely made-up, with a small chin and determined mouth. Her clothes were of the finest quality and the jewellery she wore was understated, beautiful and priceless.

She stood staring at the two women, Miss Annersley and Miss Wilson had both risen on her entrance, and Miss Annersley was the first to move, “Good Morning Ms Baker, won’t you sit down? I am Hilda Annersley, Headmistress of the Real Chalet School, this is Nell Wilson, my Deputy.”

Ms Baker walked slowly into the room and sat in the chair indicated, she looked around and then spoke, “You are no longer Co-Head then, Bill?”

Both Hilda and Nell looked shocked at the sentence, Nell managed to answer, “Er, no, the title is different, but essentially it’s the same post.”

“And the Abbess, still in charge I see?”

Hilda and Nell looked at each other with some consternation, “Who are you?” The Head asked quickly, “You know us, and from your speech, it’s possible that you knew us in another place…”

“If you mean, I knew you in the original chalet school, the one that is a work of fiction?” Ms Baker nodded, “I did. According to my timeline I left that world almost forty-five years ago.” She paused for a short time, then added, “And I have spent my entire time, since then, working toward this day. A day when I can destroy totally any remnant of that place.”

Both the other women were silent for a time, subdued by the venom in the woman’s response, Miss Annersley was first to speak, “Who are you?”

Ms Baker smiled, “I have to tell you nothing, Miss Annersley, you are no longer my Headmistress, tell me, when you spoke to girls, warned them of the nature of their life at the chalet school, did it never occur to you to wonder what happened to them, once they left the school completely? Did you never wonder why they seemed to disappear and never return?”

Hilda swallowed, “Of course I wondered,” she said, “but I could do little else, most of the time I was restricted to the school, it was only on rare occasions that I was allowed to leave.”

“None of us could leave,” this from Nell Wilson, “or if we did it was with very precise orders. We didn’t even realise that people could escape to the real world until a couple of years ago.”

“And you think you had a hard time Miss Wilson?” The woman’s tones were louder and her American accent more pronounced, the other two felt they should know this voice.”

“I’d say so, yes,” Nell Wilson responded quickly, a flash of anger in her tone, “Some of us had a Hell of a lot to endure.” She subsided as Miss Annersley placed a hand on her wrist.

Ms Baker nodded, “Yes, some of us did,” she agreed and her tones threw out a challenge.

A quick knock on the door, even before Miss Annersley could reply the door opened,

“Hilda? Is she here?” It was Madge Russell, there were two others with her.

“Madge!” Miss Annersley smiled across at the woman, “Come in, do, Ms Baker this is Madge Russell…”

“Madame,” Ms Baker gave a half smile, “and Joey too. But I don’t recognise the third person.”

“This is Nell, Catherine Taylor really but…” She was interrupted by the younger woman,

“But I recognise you, I know your true identity Ms Baker!” Nell said triumphantly.

Last edited by Lesley on Thu Mar 10, 2005 5:24 am; edited 1 time in total

#155: Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 7:58 pm

ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh But do we get the next post tonight ?????????????????????

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

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 8:14 pm

Brilliant Lesley!

#157: Author: Katie, Location: London, but my heart belongs to Harrogate

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 8:21 pm

Not even bothering to try to guess, but very intrigued all the same! Peeeaaaasssee post the next bit tonight!

#158: Author: Alex, Location: Manchester

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 8:27 pm

I have an idea...... but I think I'll wait and see what Lesley says next.

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

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 9:09 pm

hmmmmm.....i have an inkling - which is probably wrongand i'm just waiting now.....please lesley!!!!!

#160: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 9:17 pm

Yseult, Evvy or Corney(I hope not, I'm just thinking Americans)

#161: Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 9:21 pm

:crying: I guessed....... but I didnt want it to be her :crying: poke

Lesley

#162: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 9:32 pm

Kathye wrote:

:crying: I guessed....... but I didnt want it to be her :crying: poke

Lesley

Please don't tell me it is Corney.

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

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 9:37 pm

nikkie wrote:

Kathye wrote:

:crying: I guessed....... but I didnt want it to be her :crying: poke

Lesley

Please don't tell me it is Corney.

Lesley described the person as

Lesley wrote:

Her face was exquisitely made-up, with a small chin and determined mouth

I've always imagined Corney as having a large square chin, wasn't that the standard description? Or is that just my mental picture of her?

#164: Author: Miriam, Location: Jerusalem, Israel

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 9:47 pm

She had a very determined chin, that Jo had once characterised as first cousin to a ramrod. Determined fits, but does anyone know the average dimensions of a ramrod?

#165: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 9:54 pm

wibble, wibble wibble. Kathye didn't want it to be her (wibble wibble etc. Wink

Lesley, please tell us! (wibbles again).

#166: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 10:16 pm

aaagggghhhhhhhhhhhh....do tell Lesley please

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

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 10:17 pm

Wonderful, fantabulous shiny Lesley, pleeeeeeeeeeease post the next installment before I have to go to bed!

#168: Author: Ella, Location: Staffordshire

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 10:17 pm

*WIBBLE!!* HelpMe

On edge of seat - very worried now - really hoping it isn't Corney or Evvy! Lesley......!

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

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 10:41 pm

Thanks Lesley - this is great (Thanks for the PM too! Laughing

so glad I worked it out!)

#170: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 10:56 pm

well, my guess is in. Hope I'm wrong! *has revenge drabble worked out, just in case.....* Twisted Evil

ETA: Phew - was wrong! ETA2: Drabble currently under resurrection pending PM from Lesley!!!!! Evil or Very Mad

Last edited by Josie on Mon Jan 24, 2005 7:04 am; edited 3 times in total

#171: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 10:58 pm

*refuses to believe it’s Corney OR Evvy, determined or no.* If it has to be an American, I’d go for Mary Shaw/Shand, who were so nondescript they seemed to get totally confuzzled. So many candidates! At different moments, I’ve voted for Joan Baker or one of her connections, Juliet or her sister-in-law Kay, Grizel, various early staff, Sophie Hammel, Marilyn the ex-HG, Betty Wynne-Davis or Elizabeth Arnett with bells on, the Indiana Ozanne twin (would explain how she ended up at Butler!), and many more. In terms of single-minded determination learned from a father, my leading lady was Ruey Richardson, who certainly faded quickly, and was with Joey’s lot enough to pick up “Dr. Jem” and other Tiernsee terminology. *gives up* *votes for Jane Baker as Jane Baker, pathologically determined to get revenge for being so “ordinary” she’s never mentioned in the books* (No, they’ll never ignore her again!)

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

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 11:04 pm

I'm really sorry everyone, have tried writing the next instalment but cannot get it right - so it will have to wait until I've had some sleep. Sorry. Lesley

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

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 11:05 pm

LESLEY!!!!!! i'm not going to bed until i know and i have to get up in the morning!!!!

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

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 11:07 pm

Lesley wrote:

I'm really sorry everyone, have tried writing the next instalment but cannot get it right - so it will have to wait until I've had some sleep.

Get all the sleep you need and don't post till you are happy with it. I will admit that I never expected you to post the next part tonight anyway!! Laughing

#175: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Sun Jan 23, 2005 11:12 pm

Really hope u manage to write it soon. Sleep well

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

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 1:10 am

*crosses fingers that Lesley is dreaming sweetly and will wake up refreshed and get that post up by 6am..... Wink

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

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 4:13 am

arrgh I'm so brain-dead I haven't anyideas Lesley, sleep well and happily, and post soon!!!

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

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 4:14 am

Gosh when I saw there was an entire page of drabble after Lesley's cliffhanger I was sure that I'd find out. No such luck and I've just broken a finger catching the cliff edge on the way past...

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

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 10:43 am

Argh now I'll have to wait until tomorrow.....cos I'm out tonight! *Giggling at an amazingly true portrayal of myself - I so would have interrupted Madge like that!* *dangling*

#180: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 11:05 am

LOL!! Brilliant cliffs, Lesley!! So much to read from the weekend and with any lucky I'll even get a sneak preview of the next post!! *off to offer encouragement Very Happy

*begins drum roll to herald Nell's big announcement*

#181: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 11:20 am

(feel that a post from me might be an anti-climax after all that drum roll) Am not even going to try and hazard a guess at the true identity of Jane Baker - the workings of Lesley's mind are a mystery to me! Looking forward to finding out though!

#182: Author: Alex, Location: Manchester

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 12:55 pm

I hope that you are feeling refreshed today, Lesley. This is playing havoc with my revision.

#183: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 1:20 pm

*joins in Rachael's drum roll, just 'cause it looks like fun!* Razz

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

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 1:29 pm

Nell wrote:

Argh now I'll have to wait until tomorrow.....cos I'm out tonight! *Giggling at an amazingly true portrayal of myself - I so would have interrupted Madge like that!* *dangling*

Heck, if you're dangling Nell the rest of us have no chance, you're the one about to reveal who Jane Baker is. *abseils down cliff and checks provision of trampolines* JackieJ

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

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 1:47 pm

Ah yes..... Embarassed

That would be my other self though - and you don't think Lesley would actually tell me what she was going to do to me do you?

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

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 2:45 pm

ARRRRRRRGGGGGHHHHHHH!! Lesleeeeeeeeeeeeeeey!!!!!!! I've just read five pages and I was so certain you'd have posted the revelation of Jane Baker's character by now and I'm only on email access sporadically and now I may be waiting DAYS Evil or Very Mad

#187: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 2:54 pm

Really wanted to know Jane Baker's identity as a little treat for a cold Monday afternoon. Sad

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

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 3:19 pm

Thanks for all we've had up to now Lesley! Am much looking forward to the next bit Very Happy

So Americans wise, there's Evvy, Corney (but the chin rules her out), Marys Shand and Shaw... erm... hang on wasn't there another? What about Louise? er.. Elma Conroy??! *clutching at straws and having had to look up the last one* -- I don't know! But if Kathye didn't want it to be her... Evvy??! Shocked

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

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 4:12 pm

*alternates between hiding under the desk with her eyes screwed shut and hands clamped to her eyes shouting I DON'T WANT TO KNOW, I DON'T WANT TO KNOW [and you thought 18 makes me an adult??] and bouncing up and down squeaking with impatience to find out who it is!* Please please please Lesley? We love you lots.

#190: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 5:00 pm

*g* I'm not sure which I admire more: Lesley's cliffs, the creation of such suspense or the rather ingenius red herrings ... Fabulous!! Laughing

#191: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 5:10 pm

I vote for Kathy S - I bet her 'info' was all lies! And, Kathy was one of those nameless students at the CS whom we never read about.

#192: Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 6:09 pm

I think that would be an extremely elaborate deception if that was the case !! I think, dont quote me though, that Kathy S joined the CBB before Lesley did. Though I am suspicous of all these newbies with RCS7 looming !!! Twisted Evil

#193: Author: Alex, Location: Manchester

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 7:18 pm

I don't know if we can rule out Corney (sudden idea) as she may have done a Matey and had plastic surgery. As they said in The O.C.

Quote:

Chin implants are the new nose jobs

. My idea was that it was one of the Americans. Mary Shand definately had fair hair, it says when she chases the burglar (?sp?) in Highland Twins. But Jane could have died her hair. Ah there are so many possibilities.

#194: Author: Katie, Location: London, but my heart belongs to Harrogate

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 7:37 pm

Kathye wrote:

Though I am suspicous of all these newbies with RCS7 looming !!! Twisted Evil

Interesting theory... I was reading something from the drabble archive the other day and came across a couple of posts from Janet! The lengths people go to for their art...

#195: Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 7:39 pm

Well it would be the perfect opportunity to slip another "extra" one in without anyone being suspicous, except me of course Wink

#196: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 7:50 pm

I really thought that there would be more by now, Lesley typing

PLEASE

#197: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 8:20 pm

I've been thinking. *gasp, horror, it is a portent of the end of the world, they all cried* I think it is someone who has been in America a long while and picked up the accent. I'm going wibble, wibble at the thought that it could be ........ What's that noise? Who is behind me? Aaargh! *Falls to the floor, still grey etc., in a pool of spreading blood Shocked

* Just kidding Wink

I don't have a clue really. Lesley, please tell us.

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

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 8:45 pm

So you've all been enjoying yourself on my thread while i've been away then? Twisted Evil

Here you go!

The older woman looked across sharply, “You know me? Impossible!”

Nell shook her head, “No, not impossible, just difficult, but with help from some friends I managed it.” she looked round, “Ms Baker attended university, Butler university in Indianapolis, she took a degree in Economics, had an affair with one of the professors.”

Ms Baker shrugged, “So you accessed the University archives, and listened to gossip. There was nothing wrong with the ‘affair’ I was quite fond of Charles, and he was single, I didn’t break up any relationship. How did that help you?”

“It didn’t, to begin with,” Nell replied, “Other than to tell me that you were American, not English. But knowing that meant I could start to dig a little deeper into American records. You obtained a passport in the name of Jane Baker the year after you graduated - unusual in a way, even today there are a large number of your countrymen who never leave the States. It was possible to track the first places you visited, the Austrian Alps, a little place called Pertisau, Jerbourg on the island of Guernsey, Hereford in England, Interlaken in Switzerland - you were searching for the school, weren’t you?”

Ms Baker smiled but said nothing. Miss Annersley signalled that everyone should take a seat around the small table and listened as Nell continued her narrative.

“After a time you gave up travelling and settled on starting a business, you started in a small office in West London, the business was a great success, buying and selling, you had an almost instinctive knowledge of what commodities would be popular, and of course, knowing French and German helped.”

Ms Baker smiled again, “None of this gives you any indication of my identity,” she said mildly.

“No,” agreed Nell, “But the safety deposit boxes you set up did. They are no longer being used now, or I’d never have been able to discover the records. The banks you used had passwords, not numbers, for security. The two I was able to discover were both names, Nadia and Anastasia.”

“At the names Joey looked across sharply, “It can’t be!” she said in disbelief.

Nell nodded, “Yes it is, Joey, and this is the final proof,” she handed across a file, Joey opened it and the others all crowded in to look, "I managed to get hold of some old passport photographs, allowing for age most of them were unspectacular, but the very oldest one was a surprise, 'Jane Baker' had a different appearance. I did some digging, seems that Jane Baker spent some time in an exclusive London clinic in the mid seventies, they specialised in cosmetic surgery, in particular reconstruction of the face and jaw. Have a look at the earliest photograph and see what she had done, the size of the jaw line has noticeably reduced."

There was silence for a time, Joey was deep in thought, “Nadia, Anastasia, I know those names, but where…” she stopped and looked again at the old woman in front of her, “Oh my God! Look at her, all of you, take away the signs of aging, increase the size of the chin, add those two names, her middle names, learnt at Sybil’s naming party.”

The others all looked, Nell Wilson was quickest, “Cornelia, it’s Cornelia Flower!”

Last edited by Lesley on Thu Mar 10, 2005 5:27 am; edited 3 times in total

#199: Author: Katarzyna, Location: Preston, Lancashire

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 8:50 pm

Finally! having driven everyone at home (well partner and dogs at any rate) nuts for the last 3 hours waiting to find this out!! I guessed!! hurrah me!!! Ok, very good ................ so what happens next???? Very Happy

Last edited by Katarzyna on Mon Jan 24, 2005 8:51 pm; edited 1 time in total

#200: Author: Gem, Location: Saltash/Aberystwyth

Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2005 8:51 pm