Modern World

Goto page 1, 2  Next  :| |:

The CBB -> Ste Therese's House

---

#1: Modern World Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 8:19 am

---

Welcome back everyone! Two years ago today 10th September 2003, I posted 300 words of a little communal drabble for fun calling it The Real Chalet School (RCS)! It's grown rather since then! Thought it was appropriate to start the seventh part of RCS on this anniversary.

Those coming to this brand new - please don't be put off - if you PM me I can send you copies of the preceding parts so you can see just how the chalet school characters are now living in modern-day Australia!

On with the show!

The first day of Term Three was Monday 25th July, however, with the exception of those Staff performing escort duty from the UK, all the Staff were back by the previous Thursday. The next few days had been spent preparing the Real Chalet School for its influx of some 650 pupils plus adult students, more than three quarters of them boarders. The teaching staff were busy ensuring that all supplies and books necessary were available and liaising with Rosalie Dene with regard to timetables and classrooms. While the Housemistresses were preparing the boarding houses, ensuring the rooms were clean and tidy with linen ready for the beds to be made. In addition they had supervised placement of trunks at the base of each girl's bed, ready for them to unpack. The trunks always arrived a few days before their owners. The Boarding Houses now numbered ten, each with the capacity to take up to 60 boarders plus Housemistress and two assistants.

Karen and her staff of caterers, cleaners and those working in the laundry were also busy, ensuring the School was clean and ready for the girls. In addition Karen, along with Mollie Mackenzie, supervised delivery of stores of dry goods to last through the term, and goods for the large, walk-in freezer and refrigerators. All the School supply of linen, towels, tea-towels and the like was freshly laundered ready for the start of term. Outside the grounds were also prepared, grass freshly cut, especially on the playing fields, and any outstanding maintenance and repairs performed. It was a very busy two days.

Then, for the weekend, Miss Annersley announced that everyone could have the two days off, returning first thing Monday morning. Only a skeleton staff would remain, mainly Security personnel, and they would be reimbursed later in the term. She and Miss Wilson, of course, remained on-site for the weekend. The additional weekend off was much appreciated by all and almost everyone had returned by late Sunday evening, ready for the onslaught the following day.

Monday morning started extremely earlier for the Head and Deputy Head, with their sleep broken by the sound of the telephone ringing a little after 4.00am. Hilda Annersley lay in bed listening as Nell Wilson got up to answer it. After a short muttered conversation she heard the receiver being replaced and, bare seconds later there was a tap at her door,

"Hilda, you are awake aren't you?"

"Of course, Nell, come in," Hilda reached across to switch on her bedside lamp, "who was on the phone?"

Nell Wilson sat on the bed and smiled across at her partner, "It was Julie Berne," she said, "she was letting us know that the flight from London was delayed by a few hours, some security hitch or other. Anyway, the knock on effect is that the projected time for touchdown at Melbourne airport is 3.15pm, rather than midday."

Hilda nodded, "I'll let Rosalie know as soon as she appears," she said, "Did Julie have a good time in France?"

"She said she had a fabulous time, spent a couple of weeks with Simone before travelling across to Austria with Gertrude Rider."

"Did Jeanne go with them?"

Nell shook her head, "No, she is still a little uncomfortable with mountains, she went over to see Dick and Mollie Bettany - she's got hundreds of photos apparently, and a promise from the Bettanys that they will be out for a long visit before the end of the year."

"Excellent, it will be good to see them again," the Head shifted in bed and then grimaced slightly, Nell saw it,

"You OK Hilda?"

Hilda smiled, "Yes, but I doubt I'll be able to sleep again."

"Me neither, tell you what, you get up and ready, I'll stick some milk on the stove - how does hot chocolate sound?"

"I can always be bribed with hot chocolate, Nell, I'll be down soon."

…

The early alarm call meant that both Miss Annersley and Miss Wilson were across at the School well before normal rising time. They both took the opportunity to work through some of the myriad different tasks that were waiting on their desks. Later, mid-morning, a Staff Meeting was held in the Staff Room. After going through the projected times of arrival for the pupils and the duties assigned for each member of staff, Miss Annersley had leant back slightly and smiled round.

"Now I've one other piece of news," she said, "to do with the arrangements of the School. Could you please ensure this information is passed on to anyone not here. It's to let you know of a change in the formation and make-up of the Senior Management Team. As you know, until this term, the SMT has had five members, myself and Nell, Ruth, Jennie Macleod and Mollie Mackenzie. However, due to the amount of work, the responsibilities and change in some people's influence, there are two new members and the make-up is as follows," she nodded across to her partner and Nell Wilson switched on a PowerPoint screen.

HEADMISTRESS
Hilda Annersley

DEPUTY HEAD
Nell Wilson

SENIOR MISTRESS / BURSAR / SEN HOUSEMISTRESS / SECURITY CHIEF / DOMESTIC MANAGER

"As you are aware, Ruth Derwent," she smiled across at Ruth, "is Senior Mistress, and is next in line of command after myself and Nell, she has responsibility for this Staff Room and is the first point of contact for both the Teaching Staff and pupils if there are any concerns about the classes or teaching. She doesn't have line management responsibilities for any other than her own department, though, I do want Ruth to have some free time! However, in the absence of Nell and myself she speaks for the School.

"Next, our Bursar, Mollie, she's the Financial Head and has responsibility for her own Finance Team as well as all the Admin Staff - Rosalie now reports to her," The Head smiled across at the Office Manager before continuing, "She has responsibility for the budget, the RCS should be self sufficient, and that includes money in from fees for students and also Payroll and wages. In addition any building work or refurbishments and of course contracts with tradesmen." Miss Annersley paused for a moment and Miss Wilson took over,

"The Senior Housemistress is, as you all know, Jennie Macleod. Her responsibilities are for the boarding houses, we now have ten houses, each with a Housemistress and assistant housemistresses. She has responsibility for the well being and safety of the pupils and care of the same over weekends and during the night." Nell nodded toward Jennie as she finished.

"We've now got two new members of the SMT, firstly John Coates, he's responsible for the Security of the RCS, and has a staff of Security officers to provide 24 hour cover. Also he has responsibility for ground staff and gardeners and for maintenance workers. He shares responsibility for any contractors on-site with Mollie." Nell smiled across at the Head who then completed the list,

"And finally, the second of two new members is someone known to all of you, Karen is now designated as Domestic Manager, and her duties remain the same as always in that she is responsible for all catering, laundry services and cleaning. With both kitchens and laundry on-site, her staff provides all catering as well as both School laundry and individual laundry service." As she spoke a bell ran signalling lunch, Miss Annersley smiled, "And I'm sure you will all agree that hers is an exceptionally important role!"

There was a low chuckle throughout the Staff Room as the people looked again at the small diagram and assimilated the information given. The Head smiled round at everyone,

"That is all for now," she said, "I would recommend moving across to the Dining Room, I think we will all need the strength from Karen's cooking to cope with this afternoon!"

The rest of the staff quickly filed out to move across for lunch, Nell Wilson looked across at her partner, "Can you manage Hilda?"

The Head nodded, "I think so Nell," she said, she reached across to where a hospital crutch was propped up on the chair next to her and slowly levered herself upright. Careful not to place very much weight on her right leg she slowly walked over to the Dining Room, Miss Wilson beside her.

Last edited by Lesley on Fri Oct 21, 2005 7:16 am; edited 46 times in total

 

---

#2:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 8:25 am

---

ooooh looking very interesting. Thanks for starting up again Lesley

 

---

#3:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 8:34 am

---

Welcome back, Lesley, but what, oh what have you done to Hilda?

Loved all the school details.

Thank you.

 

---

#4:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 8:41 am

---

I think I have gaps in this story, although the bits I have tracked down have been very entertaining. This part sounds so modern, especially the bit about the 24 hour security. Looking forward to seeing how it goes on. And hoping that Hilda is going to be ok.

 

---

#5:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 10:35 am

---

Wooohooo, it's back. I hadn't thought about the anniversery of the first one coming up, alhtough I suppose I ought to have known subconciously.

Love the school details and the nice peaceful start with just the hints of reminers.

 

---

#6:  Author: kateeee,  Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 11:05 am

---

Yay it's back. Looks great so far.

 

---

#7:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 11:06 am

---

Yippee, it's back!!! Bounce, bounce, bounce!!!

What did Hilda do to herself? Or what did Nell do to her?

 

---

#8:  Author: Kateth, Location: Heidelberg Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 11:09 am

---

Hooray! RCS is back!

Thanks, Lesley.

 

---

#9:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 11:31 am

---

Meanwhile, in the Women’s State Prison…

Butcher was led into the Governor’s office by a Prison Officer; instructed to stand in front of the desk and wait. After a few minutes the Governor herself appeared. She sat down and quickly looked through some papers in a file, then looked up,

“It makes a pleasant change, Butcher,” she began, “to see you for something other than a disciplinary matter.”

“Yes Mrs Knight.” Butcher’s expression was neutral.

Mrs Knight nodded, “Well, in response to your request, I have already received a communication from the Headmistress of the Real Chalet School. She informs me that her Mistresses are willing to recommence the literacy classes. A date has yet to be agreed, but it should be soon after their school term starts.”

“Thank you Mrs Knight,” Butcher relaxed slightly, “Is it OK for me to inform the women?”

The Governor sat back, regarding the prisoner in front of her thoughtfully, “I will be instructing my officers to do just that within the next few days,” she said, “but I’ve no objection to you telling them.”

“Thanks.”

“One thing, Butcher,” Mrs Knight lifted a hand, “after what happened the security will be far stricter. Only those that will benefit from the classes, as designated by the prison doctors or social workers will be eligible for attendance. Any inmate that wants to attend will have to prove they require the information Miss Annersley’s Staff can teach.”

“Understood, Mrs Knight. I’ll make sure all those that need it know to see one of the officers, ask for assessment.”

Mrs Knight nodded, “Very well, then we are finished here, take her back, Mr Read.”

The prison officer standing beside Butcher nodded and ushered the inmate out, along the Admin corridor to the end he opened the door to a small room,

“Inside, Butcher, wait there, I’ll see if I can find an officer to escort you back to the wing.”

Butcher walked into the room, it was obviously used solely as a waiting area, a small room, it had a barred window high up on the far wall. There was a coffee table with some magazines on it and a few chairs. A large notice board on one wall showed the normal prison posters, one detailing the prison’s policy toward bullying, another its statement toward discrimination, a third warning about drug use. Butcher’s eyes glanced off of them, she could probably recite all three posters from memory. She picked up a magazine, checked the date, October 7th 1994, she snorted, threw the magazine down again. Outside the sky was dark, it was raining heavily, Butcher dragged a chair across and stood upon it, looking out of the window. Behind her was the sound of the door being unlocked, but she ignored it, continued to look out into the courtyard.

“Hello Butcher,”

At the sound Butcher spun round, “Miss Shaw,” she said, a smile on her face, “I didn’t know you were back.” She jumped down from the chair.

The Senior Prison Officer smiled, “Today is my first day,” she said.

“You’ve fully recovered then? You were off a long time.” Butcher could see no signs of the terrible bruising on the prison officer’s face, but her sharp eyes noted that Shaw, almost unconsciously, seemed to be favouring her stomach slightly. ‘Didn’t she have surgery?’

“Seven weeks sick leave,” Miss Shaw agreed, “then some annual leave. But yes, I have fully recovered, thank you. I understand that your stint in solitary is over?”

“Yeah, did six weeks in total,” Butcher shrugged, “I needed the break.”

Miss Shaw nodded, “And have you re-established your command since then, Butcher?”

Butcher attempted an innocent expression, “I’m sure I don’t know what you mean, Miss Shaw.”

Miss Shaw smiled, “No, of course not,” she agreed. Then, “Are you awaiting escort back to the wing?”

Butcher nodded.

“Then come along, we can return together.”

The Senior Prison Officer led Butcher out of the Admin Block and along a number of corridors. Butcher looked across at the woman walking beside her,

“Miss Mareck returned after only a couple of weeks,“ she said.

“Yes, she was eager to return, she didn’t feel she needed any more time off.”

“I’ve not seen Miss Gordon though,” Butcher said lazily, “I didn’t think she’d been hurt at all.”

There was silence for a time, then Miss Shaw sighed slightly, “Miss Gordon will not be returning,” she said flatly.

“Has she got a transfer?” Butcher’s tone was slightly disbelieving.

The Senior Officer stopped, considered, “She has decided to pursue a different career,” she said eventually.

Butcher smiled slightly, her eyes showing her contempt, “She couldn’t hack it then,” she said with assurance.

Miss Shaw didn’t reply but Butcher was convinced she saw agreement in her expression. The two walked in silence for a time, then Butcher spoke again,

“You kept your word, about the charges I mean. None of the other women had more than eighteen months on their sentence. Apart from Sullivan and me, of course.”

Miss Shaw raised an eyebrow, “Did you doubt it?”

“Well no, but, once it was all over, you might have been persuaded to do something different.”

As they reached the entrance to the wing they stopped while Miss Shaw unlocked a gate, they both passed through and she locked it once more, Butcher looked across,

“Miss Shaw, can I ask you a question?”

”Of course,”

“Mrs Knight’s retiring the end of the year, isn’t she?”

Miss Shaw showed no surprise that something supposed to be a secret was known by the inmates, she nodded, “Yes, at Christmas.”

“Well, have you thought of applying for the post yourself?” Butcher asked, “I mean, you’d be the first Governor in history voted for by all the inmates.”

Miss Shaw smiled slightly, acknowledging the compliment, “I don’t think so, Butcher,” she said quietly, “I’ve already discovered just how painful promotion can be!”

Butcher grinned, “But as Governor it’s unlikely you’d ever be placed in that sort of situation, is it? Governor’s not on the wings that much.”

“No,” Miss Shaw agreed, “But on the wing is where I belong.”

 

---

#10:  Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 11:41 am

---

Hurrah! It's back.

 

---

#11:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 1:39 pm

---

Thanks for another bit so soon. I do like the relationship betweeen these two strong women. Nice to see Miss Shaw back in harness.

 

---

#12:  Author: BethC, Location: Worcester, UK Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 1:57 pm

---

Great to see RCS back, Lesley - thank you!

 

---

#13:  Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 2:28 pm

---

Quote:

Butcher.... picked up a magazine, checked the date, October 7th 1994, she snorted, threw the magazine down again.

Cor! She's got more up to date magazines than in my GP's waiting rooms!

Yeah for Karen! Wibbles about Hilda! Wahey it's back!

 

---

#14:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 5:24 pm

---

It was good to see the friendly banter between Butcher and Miss Shaw. Thanks Lesley

 

---

#15:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 5:46 pm

---

Happy birthday RCS

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

---

#16:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 7:24 pm

---

More RCS!

*starts packing her cliff survival bag*

 

---

#17:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 8:00 pm

---

Way-Hay!!!! It's back! And two posts today. Thanks Lesley - thought you were too occupied with other things to write more yet.

*edited to change wording that could be misconstrued!!!*

 

---

#18:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 8:42 pm

---

Thanks for changing that Pat, was somewhat concerned!

There was silence for a time following that statement, Butcher appreciating the truth of it. The two women walked across to where the midday meal was being served.

“You’d better hurry up and join the queue, Butcher,” Miss Shaw observed, “You don’t want to miss lunch.”

Butcher nodded and turned to go, then stopped, as though remembering something, “Miss Shaw? About the charges against me.”

The Senior Officer looked across, “I warned you that the ringleaders would be punished severely, Butcher.”

Butcher nodded, “Yeah, I know, I was expecting it but, er, well, I was expecting more charges.”

Miss Shaw said nothing, just looked at the inmate.

Butcher smiled slightly, “I know, that sounded crazy, I don’t know if you were told, but I faced charges of assault, riotous behaviour and kidnapping.”

“Yes, I knew.”

“Well, I was found guilty of all charges, no surprise there, sentence was fifteen years.” Butcher laughed ironically, “that’s fifteen years to add to a life sentence.”

“As you expected, Butcher.”

“Yeah, no problem, except what the Judge said afterwards.” Butcher turned so that she was facing the other woman, “He said that two things had stopped him from recommending that I be re-classified, firstly, that I hadn’t attempted to kill any of the other inmates, and secondly, that I’d protected the hostages. He said that, with my record, he’d otherwise have made that recommendation.” Butcher paused for some time, then, under her breath she spoke again, “Thanks.”

Miss Shaw nodded slightly, “You’re welcome,” she said.

There was silence for some seconds, then Butcher shook herself, “Don’t think I’ve gone soft or nothin' though, will you screw?” She gave a slight grin before turning and joining the queue for lunch, the other women automatically allowing her to the front of the line.

Miss Shaw watched with a slight smile, behind her another voice spoke, “You should really call her back, you know, place her on a charge for that insolence.”

Geri Shaw turned slightly, “Hello Pat,” she smiled, “Yes I should, terrible negligence for my first day back.” She took a deep breath, “Come on, I assume you have a number of things to hand over.” The two women walked across to the Office.

Last edited by Lesley on Sat Sep 17, 2005 5:43 am; edited 1 time in total

 

---

#19:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 8:50 pm

---

Thanks Lesley - love the understanding between those two.

Liz

 

---

#20:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 8:57 pm

---

LizB wrote:

Thanks Lesley - love the understanding between those two. Liz

So do I.

And I wouldn't expect you to misconstrue what I originally wrote Lesley!!!! After all if you don't know whether to take it at face value or give it another meaning, no one else will!!!

 

---

#21:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 9:10 pm

---

yay it's back!!

Thanks Lesley!

 

---

#22:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 9:42 pm

---

Ooh it's back - and I've already had to catch up on 3 posts!

*resolves to keep logged in all day every day for the next few weeks so I can't get too far behind! *

Thankyou Lesley - looks like a great start!

 

---

#23:  Author: Josie, Location: London Posted: Sat Sep 10, 2005 11:56 pm

---

*G* at Pat!

Thanks Lesley. Glad to see this back. Love the banter between Miss Shaw and Butcher.

 

---

#24:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 3:44 am

---

Loved the exchange between Butcher and Miss Shaw, based on mutual respect and friendship.

(Have managed to stealson's computer for half an hour!)

 

---

#25:  Author: Alice, Location: London, England Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 7:47 am

---

Yaye, new RCS. I know where my time's going to be going now.

Last edited by Alice on Tue Sep 13, 2005 3:37 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

---

#26:  Author: JoW, Location: Lincolnshire Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 10:23 am

---

Grinning with excitement - more RCS

 

---

#27:  Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 12:48 pm

---

What, no cliff yet?

Thanks, Lesley!

 

---

#28:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 1:31 pm

---

That was great, thanks. Those two may well be on oppposite sides of the fence, but they make a great team.

 

---

#29:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 1:39 pm

---

Great to see it back, yippee, thank you Lesley

2 years!

 

---

#30:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 3:28 pm

---

Once lunch was over Miss Annersley quickly reminded everyone that the UK contingent were delayed, again, but that pupils were expected from America as well as all over Australia. While the UK contingent, incorporating all of Europe, accounted for between one third and half of all pupils at the School, this still left a great number from other regions. They were expected to start arriving from two o’clock onwards and, as well as the Housemistresses, all the Teaching Staff were expected to lend a hand, either with escort duties from Melbourne Airport, helping the girls, especially the younger ones, to unpack, or, in the case of the Junior School and Kindergarten, to just be with the younger girls and allow them to recover from their homesickness.

Back in her Study, Miss Annersley steadily worked through some of the many pieces of correspondence she had received, as well as reading through and approving budget requests from the different members of the SMT. Midway through the afternoon, when she could hear that some of the children had started to arrive, there was a knock at the door and Gill Culver ushered in two visitors. John Coates accompanied them.

The Head smiled across at the two, “My apologies, both of you, for not rising,” she said, holding out a hand to clasp the man’s hand, “an accident to my ankle, I’m afraid. Won’t you sit down?”

She waited while the two visitors sat, then smiled at Gill in dismissal. “Mr Palmer? You requested an interview?” Miss Annersley’s voice was expressionless.

The man nodded, “I know that you accepted Katrina back during the holidays, I just wanted to check it was alright?”

Hilda nodded, “Yes, it is,” she smiled across at the girl, “Katrina, welcome back, I’m sure, if you run along to your boarding house, you’ll find others of your class have already arrived. You can start unpacking.”

Katrina rose, “Yes Miss Annersley,” she hugged her father then, after smiling shyly at the Head, left the room.

There was silence for a time, then Miss Annersley spoke again, “John? There’s no need for you to wait.”

John Coates, the Security Chief looked across, “You sure, Hilda? After what happened six weeks ago…” he glared at Palmer.

Miss Annersley nodded, “I’m certain, John, Mr Palmer will behave perfectly correctly.”

John didn’t look completely convinced, but contented himself with another hard glare at the other man before quietly leaving the Study. The Head turned to her guest,

“Mr Palmer?” her voice quietly interrogative.

Palmer sighed, “Thank you for taking Kat back,” he said quickly, “especially after what happened to you…”

“None of which was Katrina’s fault, Mr Palmer.” Hilda reminded him.

“No, but you might have blamed her.” Palmer conceded. Her drew a deep breath before continuing, “She doesn’t know anything about it,” he said, “Nicola and I didn’t feel it appropriate that she know.”

“I see.”

There was silence for a time, then Palmer spoke again, almost as though he felt he had to fill the silence, “We’ve separated,” he said flatly, “Nicola and me. We’ve started going for counselling, but I don’t know if it’s too little too late.”

“I’m sorry Mr Palmer.” Hilda’s tone was sympathetic.

Palmer looked across, “Yes, you are, aren’t you? We don’t deserve it.” He stared into the middle distance for a time, then spoke again, “Katrina’s living with me. Her choice. She seems OK about the split at the moment but could you keep an eye on her? Please?”

“Of course, Mr Palmer.”

Palmer rose, leant forward slightly with his arm outstretched, he shook Miss Annersley’s hand quickly, “Thanks,” he said, “for everything.” He turned and strode abruptly from the Study, noting, without surprise, that John Coates was standing just outside.

Last edited by Lesley on Sun Sep 11, 2005 5:30 pm; edited 2 times in total

 

---

#31:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 3:38 pm

---

Thanks Lesley

Mr Palmer has gone up in my estimation - and good to see Katrina back

Liz

 

---

#32:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 3:42 pm

---

Thanks Lesley.

I'm sure we will get to the cliffs when the right moment comes!

 

---

#33:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 4:13 pm

---

I'm glad that Katrina is back at the school, and that one of her parents seems reasonably sensible - so far anyway. Thanks Lesley

 

---

#34:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 4:19 pm

---

I'm glad he has learned to appreciate Hilda's character - and to know that she has guard dogs who care about her.

Good to see Katrina back.

Thanks, Lesley

 

---

#35:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 4:31 pm

---

Whooo hooo!!!!


RCS is back!!!!

Thank you your shiny Lesleyness!

(can't believe it's 2 years since the first installment!)

 

---

#36:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 6:25 pm

---

A short time after he had left there was another knock on the Head’s Study door; however this one was on the connecting door with the Deputy Head’s Study, Miss Annersley looked across,

“Come in Nell,” she called.

Miss Wilson appeared with two mugs of coffee, “Need a break?”

Hilda Annersley smiled, “Yes, that would be good,” she reached for her crutch, intending to move across to the small table, subsided into her chair when her friend waved her back.

“Stay where you are, Hilda, you don’t want to put any more weight on that ankle than necessary. Daisy told you that you had to rest.”

“And I have been resting, Nell,” the Head protested mildly, “I’ve reduced considerably the amount I would normally be walking.”

Nell Wilson gazed at her friend with a slight frown, “You know full well that by ‘rest’ Daisy and the A & E doctor both meant rest on the sofa at home with your leg up.”

“I cannot possibly do that, Nell, beginning of term is always fraught.”

“True,” the Deputy Head conceded, there was silence for a time, both women sipping their drinks. Then Miss Wilson remembered something, “Oh, you said there was a letter I’d be interested in?”

Miss Annersley nodded, she sorted through a pile of some twenty letters before retrieving the correct one, “Here it is,” she said, passing it across.

Nell Wilson looked at the letter, it was from the Victoria State Board of Education, she read it swiftly,

Dear Miss Annersley,

Thank you for your letter and documents detailing your concerns about alleged bullying performed by a Miss Caroline Lancaster, Headmistress of a mixed secondary school within the State of Victoria. This lady had been referred to us on one other occasion when she lost a case for constructive dismissal against a former employee. At that time she was reprimanded but no further action was taken as the person concerned had obtained a suitable position in a different school.

On this occasion, although there does appear to be some evidence that Miss Lancaster was over-zealous in her application of the rules and regulations, she performed within the letter of the law in that she expelled one Cherry Elliott for violent conduct. This department is stringent in ensuring that our Staff are able to work without the fear of violence…

Nell snorted, “Ha! Nothing about the fact that Cherry was obviously provoked, that just about anyone would have reacted to the things that woman said. What about the way she had treated the girl for years before?”

“There’s more, Nell,” Hilda said quickly, read on.”

…and endorse applying severe punishments to those responsible for said violence. The matter of the additional comments and detentions are a local matter that should have been dealt with at the time by the pupil’s parents or guardians.

That said, after discussion with Miss Lancaster, she has agreed to take early retirement due to health reasons at the end of this school year. We will be sorry to lose someone of her experience and calibre.

Thank you for your interest, please contact us should you have concerns about any member of staff in the future…

Nell threw the letter back onto the desk, “Can’t see me contacting them in the future,” she said decisively, “seems to me that all they’ve done is allow her to take early retirement, probably with a full pension.”

“More than that, Nell,” Hilda said soberly, “if I read that correctly she will have taken ill-health retirement - an even better rate of pay.”

The two were silent for a time, then Nell sighed, “Not everything in this world is clear cut, Hilda, there are any number of shades of grey.”

“Agreed, and it can leave a nasty taste in the mouth,” the Head returned.

 

---

#37:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 6:34 pm

---

Shame she got off like that, but at least she's not still working and able to bully anybody else.

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

---

#38:  Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 6:55 pm

---

RCS yay!
Though very suspicious of everytning so far!
Thank you Lesley
(be kind please )

 

---

#39:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 7:01 pm

---

Not like Hilda to be so bitter - and is her leg going to be a handicap in whatever cliffs you have in store for her?

Thanks, Lesley

 

---

#40:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 8:53 pm

---

After the coffee both women returned to their work, attempting to ensure that the term at least started with them both up-to-date. Madge Russell phoned a little before five to wish Miss Annersley a good term, and to enquire as to her health.

“Now you are sure that it will be alright for Jem and me to come over on Saturday, Hilda?” Madge asked anxiously, “we’ll be happy to reschedule if you’re not fit.”

“I’m fine Madge,” Hilda said warmly, “I’ve just badly sprained the ankle, no more. We’re looking forward to you coming. Jack and Joey are coming too, it should be a good afternoon.”

“Well if you are sure, Hilda,” Madge said affectionately, “then we’ll look forward to it. Will Cherry and Robbie be there?”

“They will, and I believe Alison, Louise and Carol said they would be coming too. We’ll expect you at two pm, let’s just hope the weather is fine.”

“Well if it isn’t we’ll push Jem and Jack outside with a few beers and Jem’s golf umbrella,” Madge returned, “they have this idea that only men can barbeque food properly so I’m sure they’ll be happy to prove it! Goodbye Hilda.”

Supper that evening was at its normal time of six-thirty. Miss Annersley walked across to the Dining Room, Miss Wilson beside her, slowing her pace to ensure the Head was able to manage with her crutch. Once at her place on the Staff table she sank gratefully into her seat. She looked around at the silent rows of faces,

“My apologies for not being there to greet you as you arrived,” she said softly, her voice reaching all parts of the great room, “a slight injury. Welcome back for term three of 2005 everyone. I’ll not keep you as I’m sure you are hungry, we will have Assembly an hour later than normal time tomorrow morning. For tonight, bedtimes are an hour earlier for all except the Kindergarten, I’m reliably informed that they all slept for more than an hour this afternoon. Now, enjoy your meal.”

Within seconds of the Head finishing her speech the catering staff were there, referring to lists and dishing up meals. As well as two choices, the catering staff could accommodate many ‘specialised diets’ including vegetarian, and low calorie. In the last few terms Karen had also instigated diets suitable for different faiths, as well as for those with wheat or gluten allergies. It was these innovations that had persuaded Miss Annersley that Karen should be promoted.

After the meal, when most the pupils had already left, the Head invited some of the Staff back to her Study for a coffee; although no longer able to fit the entire teaching Staff into her Study now, a significant number were able to fit. As they sat there Miss Annersley was gently questioned about her injury.

“I must admit, Hilda,” this from Ruth Derwent, “it came as a bit of a shock, Thursday, to suddenly see you all bandaged up and with a hospital crutch. I mean, you were fine last we saw you, on Wednesday morning.”

“Well I slipped over on Wednesday, Ruth, it wasn’t deliberate I assure you!” Miss Annersley laughed.

At that point there was an interruption as a little boy suddenly flung himself onto the Head’s lap, “Goodnight Grandma!” It was Robbie Elliott.

Hilda cuddled the boy then looked across at the open door, Cherry Elliott was standing there, “He was insistent that he wanted to say goodnight,” she said, smiling, “I didn’t think it mattered just this once.”

Hilda nodded, “Just this once, Cherry,” she said quickly. Robbie, after giving her a kiss wriggled off of Hilda’s lap and ran across to the Deputy Head,

“Goodnight Grandma Nell,” Nell picked him and sat him on her lap, he turned to look across at Hilda, his gaze fell to her right leg, seeing the tight support bandage she wore on the ankle.

"Grandma Hilda?"

"Yes darling,"

"You won't try to ride my scooter again will you?"

 

---

#41:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 8:57 pm

---

oh! oh! oh! Hilda!!! So *that's* what happened to her! And of course, no way she could keep it secret with young Robbie around! Thanks Lesley!

 

---

#42:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 9:06 pm

---

That was wicked Lesley!!! Both the way she got the inury and the way it came out! You should be ashamed of yourself!

 

---

#43:  Author: Josie, Location: London Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 9:08 pm

---

Lovely Lesley, ty. Glad Miss Lancaster got fired. And good on Mr. Palmer.

Oh, and at Hilda, of course!

 

---

#44:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 9:12 pm

---

Hilda? I don't believe it!

Nice one, Lesley.

 

---

#45:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 9:36 pm

---

I'm trying to picture Miss Annersley on a pre-schooler's scooter - and I just don't have that much imagination!!

How soon will the whole school know about it?

 

---

#46:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 9:51 pm

---

*giggles wildly*


Lesley I don't know HOW you think of these things!!!!

 

---

#47:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 10:14 pm

---

wow 3 pages of RCS to find! Yay!

I do hope you'll be able to keep up this rate of posting Lesley - cos if it's not too soon I'd like to ask for m-o-r-e!

 

---

#48:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 10:51 pm

---

cracking Lesley!

 

---

#49:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 11:24 pm

---

Brilliant

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

---

#50:  Author: Guest,  Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 11:33 pm

---

Brilliant...and zero chance of keeping THAT quiet!!

I was interested by the comment on the ambiguities and dilemmas of this world - of course this would be a major difficulty, and one of which they would only gradually become aware.

 

---

#51:  Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada Posted: Sun Sep 11, 2005 11:42 pm

---

Oh dear, talk about 'out of the mouths of babes'!! Mind you, the mental image of the tall and stately Hilda trying to ride a pre-schooler's scooter is enough to make anyone laugh!

Great start, Lesley!

 

---

#52:  Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 12:22 am

---

I was starting to get worried Lesley was going to give us wibbling practice from the get go with Hilda having some serious problem.



I'm now very relieved and amused. Thank you!

 

---

#53:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 12:39 am

---

Love Hilda's injury! generates a lovely image!

 

---

#54:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 8:23 am

---

Excellent! Love the image of Hilda on a scooter. She can borrow my Heelies when her ankle's better.

Thanks Lesley, hope you can keep up this rate of posting.





Yes I am a thirtymumble year old woman with a pair of sneakers with wheels in the heels. And they are way cool.

 

---

#55:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 8:46 am

---

*ROFL*

I bet Nell's given her some teasing over that!

 

---

#56:  Author: Liane, Location: Manchester England Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 9:18 am

---

Yay it's back!! Thank you Lesley. I was sitting here trying to remember if Hilda had hurt herself at the end of the last RCS.... Miss A...on a scooter Glad I have the house to myself or I think I may have been commited for the manical laughter.

 

---

#57:  Author: Robin, Location: London Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 9:28 am

---

hurrah! It's back!!!
And looking great already - at Hilda..

Thanks lesley

 

---

#58:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 10:32 am

---

LOLOL!

I love that image.

I also love the speed of your output on this.

 

---

#59:  Author: Bookwormsarah, Location: Cambridge, UK Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 10:36 am

---

I go away for a weekend, and there are 3 pages of RCS 7 to read - and for the first time I'm caught up on the previous parts so I can read it on the board - Yippee!

Robbie is as gorgeous as ever and I hope we see lots of Butcher and Miss Shaw.

And generally Yay Lesley!

 

---

#60:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 11:54 am

---

Not an update I'm afraid - am going away - Newcastle and Thirsk - for work. Back on Wednesday evening.

 

---

#61:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 1:01 pm

---

*pokes Lesley's job for interfering with our RCS fix*
Have a safe trip hunny!

 

---

#62:  Author: pim, Location: Helmel Hampster Posted: Mon Sep 12, 2005 5:00 pm

---

Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeee it's back! *cartwheels round the library* (not literally, for assorted reasons, only metaphorically)

Thank you Lesley

 

---

#63:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 12:14 am

---

Eek! I still haven't caught up on the last RCS. Had to read though. LOL!!! Thank you Lesley.

 

---

#64:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2005 11:26 am

---

Wonderful! Thank you Lesley - just caught up. I love the injury and the way Robbie let out what happened! I can just imagine the staffs reactions!

 

---

#65:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 4:26 pm

---

Lesley, it's wedesday evening....

 

---

#66:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 7:03 pm

---

I've just got in!

Miss Shaw’s first day back at the prison had gone smoothly; to her evident embarrassment she discovered that she was looked upon by some of the younger prisoners with complete awe. Even those that had not been a part of the siege tending to treat her with far more respect than any other prison officer.

After work that afternoon the women were all escorted back to their cells; once there, after a meal, there was Association Time. During this time those women who were interested could join classes or clubs, otherwise they could watch TV or play games. This would last until eight pm when they would all be escorted back to their cells for lock up; ‘lights out’ was at ten pm. Making her rounds of the wing a little after seven pm, Miss Shaw contented herself with solely experiencing the atmosphere, getting used, once more, to being able to anticipate the mood and ambience of the women. So far she had not noted any areas of concern, she knew, from her handover, that there had been only a few new inmates and that none of them had long sentences. In addition, since the siege the prison had been very quiet, this state continuing even after the ringleaders had returned from solitary.

As she walked along an almost empty corridor a quiet voice stopped her in her tracks,

“Hello Miss Shaw.”

The Senior Officer stiffened and turned quickly; standing, leaning against the wall, was an inmate, Sullivan.

“Hello Sullivan,” Miss Shaw’s face was impassive.

The tall prisoner grinned lazily, “I’d heard that you returned,” she said, pushing herself away from the wall and walking over to stand beside the other woman, “You were off a long time, weren’t you? I was surprised at just how long.”

“Why were you surprised, Sullivan? You were the main cause for all of my absence,” Shaw returned levelly.

“Yeah, I was, wasn’t I?” Sullivan looked down at the shorter woman and her face darkened, “but you got your own back, didn’t you? Solitary and all those charges? They did me on murder you know?”

“I know, everyone saw you kill Taylor.”

“Yeah, so I’ve now got a life sentence. No chance of parole, and guess what? I think it was because of what I did to you, not that cow Taylor.”

Miss Shaw shook her head, “Your sentence was due to the murder, Sullivan. Taking of a life always has priority.”

“Maybe,” Sullivan shrugged, “Though she deserved it.”

“No one deserved that, Sullivan.” Miss Shaw looked over at the other woman quickly, “Is that all you have to say to me?”

“Not quite,” Sullivan moved a little closer, “I’m washed up here, you know? Being beaten by Butcher like that, having a screw save my life, I’ll never be able to get any respect from the women, never be able to fight for command. A lifetime of following orders. I thought about applying for a transfer, starting up in another place. Then I thought of something else.”

“Oh?” For the life of her Geri Shaw couldn’t stop herself from flinching away from the woman responsible for causing so much pain. Unfortunately Sullivan caught the movement and grinned.

“Yeah,” Sullivan continued, “see I had this idea, about our relationship.”

“What do you mean, Sullivan?”

“I mean that I don’t think you want to go through the same beatings again, do you?” Sullivan’s voice, until then silky smooth, became harder, “And I’ve got nothing to lose now, have I? A life sentence without parole frees you in a way. Means that, whatever I do from now on doesn’t matter.”

Shaw swallowed a few times before replying, “You think you can threaten me?” she asked.

Sullivan stepped up closer, pushed the prison officer against the wall, “I know I can, Shaw, and you’ll do what I tell you. Bring me in ‘presents’ little extras, just to make this stretch seem bearable.”

“Extras?” Shaw’s voice was faint.

“Yeah, food, fags, booze, drugs maybe, use your imagination.” Sullivan grinned, “Anything to keep me sweet, make sure that you don’t have to go back into hospital. Well, do we have a deal, Shaw?”

There was silence for some seconds then the prison officer replied, “Not here, Sullivan, anyone can see us.”

Sullivan’s face relaxed and she stepped back slightly, “Come into my office,” she said sardonically, pointing to a nearby cell. Shaw walked into the cell closely followed by the inmate.

“So, what will you bring me then, Shaw?”

Miss Shaw shook her head, “I will bring you nothing, Sullivan,” she said firmly.

The bigger woman’s face darkened and she lunged forward, grabbing hold of Shaw’s lapels, “D’you think I’m playing games, screw? We can start your next visit to the hospital right now if you want?”

Miss Shaw reached up, placed her own hands on top of Sullivan’s, stepping back slightly she jerked the inmate’s hand down very sharply, holding the hand in such a way that the other woman lost her hold and was forced to her knees, a grunt of pain evidence that the action had hurt. There was silence for some seconds, Sullivan not seeming able to move, Miss Shaw spoke,

“As a martial arts expert, Sullivan, I don’t need to tell you that this is called a wrist lock. I also don’t need to tell you that, although very easy to apply, it is extremely effective at restraining people. I’m sure you agree?”

There was silence for a time until Miss Shaw shifted the wristlock very slightly, there was a muffled curse from the prisoner and she quickly answered, “Yes, yes, dammit, I agree!”

“Good,” Miss Shaw smiled, “Now, I’ve been in the prison service more than twenty years, Sullivan, and one of the things they are very good at, is ensuring that their staff know how to restrain prisoners if necessary. The idea is solely to restrain, nothing more .But I’m sure you can appreciate that, when you are in this position, I could do anything. So listen very carefully to this, Sullivan, because I’m not going to repeat it. I am Senior Prison Officer in this prison, second only to the Governor in rank. You will treat me with the respect due to my rank and position. Moreover, you will treat all my Staff with respect and you will live a completely blameless life within this prison, do you understand?”

Grimly Sullivan nodded, the wristlock holding her completely helpless, Miss Shaw continued, “If I see any evidence that you are not following these orders, Sullivan, then a number of things will happen. Firstly, I will break both of your arms, secondly you will spend the next 30 days in solitary and third, I will ensure that, once you’ve recovered from the broken bones, that you are transferred to the worst job in the prison. Do you understand Sullivan?”

There was an almost immediate response from Sullivan, nodding frantically, in obvious pain.

“Good, then this conversation is finished.” As she said this Miss Shaw released the wristlock.

Sullivan slowly stood up, watching the other woman with some measure of respect now; she slowly rotated her wrist, easing the residual ache within the joint. Miss Shaw stared into her eyes, “What’s my name, Sullivan?” she said softly.

Sullivan paused, swallowed hard, then replied, “Miss Shaw,” she said faintly, “Your name is Miss Shaw.”

The Senior Officer nodded slightly, “Yes,” she agreed, “and don’t you forget it.” She turned and left the cell.

 

---

#67:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 7:09 pm

---

Good for Geri! Thanks Lesley.

 

---

#68:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 7:35 pm

---

Geri - 1, Sullivan - 0

thank you Lesley!

 

---

#69:  Author: Liane, Location: Manchester England Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 8:00 pm

---

YAY Geri!

And Lesley too of course

 

---

#70:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 8:13 pm

---

Thanks Lesley!

 

---

#71:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 8:41 pm

---

Way to go Miss Shaw. That is wonderful Lesley.

 

---

#72:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 8:57 pm

---

Yay!!!!

Thank you shiny Lesley!!!

 

---

#73:  Author: BethC, Location: Worcester, UK Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 9:01 pm

---

Good for Miss Shaw.
Thanks, Lesley!

 

---

#74:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 9:08 pm

---

Has Miss Shaw been taking lessons from Nell and Hilda?

Wonderful, Lesley. Thank you.

 

---

#75:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2005 10:07 pm

---

Yay! Lesley's back!!

Hope work went ok?

(btw, ta for the update )

Good for Geri!

 

---

#76:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 12:07 am

---

That was really scary Lesley.


(Thinks to self that Miss Shaw should just kill - or transfer - Sullivan and be done with it. And save me more scared moments.)

 

---

#77:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 12:09 am

---

Excellent Geri!

Thank you Lesley. Hope work went well.

 

---

#78:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 6:45 am

---

Oh I am glad that Miss Shaw didnt back down to that kind of threat. I suppose that she would not have got to where she is if she had, Thanks Lesley

 

---

#79:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 7:37 am

---

Well done Miss Shaw - hope she has no more trouble with Sullivan

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

---

#80:  Author: Robin, Location: London Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 8:47 am

---

Go Geri! Go Geri! Go Geri!

glad she's back in control - thanks Lesley

 

---

#81:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 8:48 am

---

Yay! Well done Geri!

And thank you Lesley!

 

---

#82:  Author: Karry,  Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 9:06 am

---

Just catching up with CBB after a fortnight away and i find this!
Yay!
Thank you Lesley!

 

---

#83:  Author: Josie, Location: London Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 3:29 pm

---

*applauds Geri*

Thanks Lesley.

 

---

#84:  Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 4:17 pm

---

Go Geri!

Thanks Lesley, let's hope that's the last of Sullivan's troublemaking.

 

---

#85:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 8:23 pm

---

The silence that swept across the Head’s Study after Robbie had asked his question informed Miss Annersley that just about all the Teaching Staff were now aware of exactly how she had injured her ankle. Indeed, she was well aware that, before the end of the evening, every adult within the Real Chalet School was likely to be informed. However she allowed none of this to show on her face, instead maintaining a completely impassive expression as she answered Robbie, promising that she wouldn’t attempt to use his scooter again. Happy, Robbie slipped off Nell Wilson’s lap and ran over to where his mother was waiting. Cherry waved to Hilda and Nell before disappearing, closing the door behind her.

The silence continued; the Deputy Head smiled across at the Head but said nothing. No one else felt they could raise the subject. Eventually Miss Annersley began speaking of the forth-coming term and plans that had still to be finalised about Half Term. The rest of the Staff fell in with her obvious wish that the incident not be referred to again.

Later; a little after nine pm; when all but the Seniors were in bed and the oldest girls were in their common rooms; Miss Annersley and Miss Wilson left the Main Building to walk across to their cottage. The walk was, necessarily, a slow one, and Miss Wilson ensured that her pace was vastly reduced so as not to over-tax her partner.

“You do realise, Nell,” the Head began, “that it will be all over the entire School by morning?”

“What will, Hilda?” Nell Wilson’s innocent question fooled no-one, least of all her closest friend.

“…‘What will, Hilda?’…” Miss Annersley repeated, “You know very well, Nell Wilson, the reason for my stupid accident of course. And it’s all your fault too!”

“I didn’t force you to ride on Robbie’s scooter, Hilda,” Nell Wilson had a large grin on her face.

“No, but it was obvious that you didn’t think I could.”

“And I was right, wasn’t I? You couldn’t.”

“Only because of a huge pot-hole! I’ll be having words with John about that.” The Headmistress tones were apparent now, “His maintenance people should have repaired that long before it was allowed to reach that size.”

“Oh to be a fly on the wall for that interview,” Nell said quietly, she smiled when Hilda looked across in some puzzlement, “I just want to be there when you attempt to reprimand John for not ensuring a small hole in the grounds was filled, because you fell down it riding a three-year-old’s scooter! Bet John can’t keep a straight face.”

“Hah!”

 

---

#86:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 8:47 pm

---

*chuckles evilly*


PLEASE write that interview with John, Lesley!!!!

 

---

#87:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 8:53 pm

---

Noooo, that was never my intention.

 

---

#88:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 8:54 pm

---

Wonderful display of both their characters, Lesley. Nell really got her there, didn't she?

Thank you.

 

---

#89:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 9:45 pm

---

Vikki wrote:

*chuckles evilly* PLEASE write that interview with John, Lesley!!!!

*adds pleas to Vikki's*

Liz

 

---

#90:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 10:56 pm

---

Poor John!

Thanks Lesley!

 

---

#91:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Thu Sep 15, 2005 11:41 pm

---

Perhaps she might have been better advised to maintain a dignified silence....!

Excellent Lesley!

 

---

#92:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 9:23 am

---

*g* Fantastic. Thank you Lesley.

And I'm looking forward to seeing that interview with John...

 

---

#93:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 1:39 pm

---

You must have known we would all want to see the interview...Pleeeeease Lesley.

 

---

#94:  Author: Josie, Location: London Posted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 1:54 pm

---

*joins pleas for interview with John*

Thanks Lesley.

 

---

#95:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 6:25 pm

---

The scene with John Coates did not take place; the Head appreciating that Miss Wilson’s comments were very true and that it was unlikely that John would be able to listen with a completely serious expression. She did make subtle enquiries as to the maintenance roster and discovered that the ‘filling in’ of any holes or hazards in the road were scheduled for the following weekend.

The Tuesday morning saw the entire School assembled in the Hall after a late awakening and breakfast. Miss Annersley addressed them,

“Welcome back everyone, to this the Third Term of 2005. As I’m sure you are aware this term will run for eight weeks finishing on Friday 16th September. Half Term commences on the afternoon of Thursday 18th August and will end on the following Monday night – the 22nd.” The Head smiled at the groans heard chiefly from the Middles, “Yes, I know, only four days in total. But you will have four weeks off from September 16th, and we do have some nice things planned for this Half Term – we will be going on expeditions.”

At the words there was a positive hubbub of noise, it stopped however as Miss Annersley held up her hand, “Further information will be made known closer to the time. I should also issue a warning that, should I have any reports of bad behaviour the perpetrator will not be going on the expeditions, but instead will spend their Half Term here at the School. And as that will mean that either Miss Wilson or I will therefore also miss the expeditions I think I can guarantee a fairly miserable time!”

At these words there was a rueful chuckle throughout the Hall; while both the Head and Deputy Head were well loved by all pupils, no one wanted to face them if they were angry or disappointed.

Miss Wilson walked across to take over, allowing the Head to sink gratefully to a seat, her ankle still causing her significant pain. Miss Wilson grinned, “Fairly miserable?” she asked quickly, “I think you are being generous, Miss Annersley!” She stepped up to the lectern to continue, “In addition we will be having our Sports Day the weekend before the end of term, and I know that a number of you will be having extra training because of this. We also have our Athletics Tournament in a few weeks – we won that last year so I hope we manage the same again, please also remember that our magazine will be out at the end of term – anyone wishing to submit articles, speak to Miss Derwent or Mrs Willimott about the cut-off date.”

Miss Wilson referred to the notes on the lectern before continuing, “Finally, the boarding houses are now all complete, we have ten in total. However there will be further building work starting within the next few weeks – the Real Chalet School will have its own swimming pool,” she paused as many if the pupils began speaking excitedly, then held up her hand for silence, “It’s not going to be finished overnight,” she warned, “in fact it may not be ready before the end of the year, but eventually we will be able to use our own pool for teaching and training, for life guard training and, of course, for use in case of bad weather. One warning though – no pupil is allowed anywhere near the building work. Should any of you consider that you can disobey I suggest you first speak to Ms Moore, she will be able to give you graphic detail about what may happen if you stray too close to a building site!”

The School giggled at this, all glancing across at the Geography Head; Ms Moore was sat with a grin on her face and slightly flushed cheeks.

Miss Wilson grinned across at Ros Moore then turned her attention to the School once more; “I believe that is all for now, unless Miss Annersley has any additions?” she turned to her friend.

Miss Annersley nodded and struggled back to her feet, “Thank you Miss Wilson,” she said formally, “there is one other item of news.” She looked across at the School, “As you are aware, four of our mistresses were involved in a terrifying ordeal last term, when they were inadvertently involved in a riot at the women’s State Prison. We honoured them at the end of last term with Bravery Awards.” She moved her gaze across to the Honours Board, with its more recent additions, the School did likewise.

Miss Annersley continued, “For your information, I think you should all be aware that all four mistresses have volunteered to return to the prison, starting next week, to continue their lessons. Miss Derwent, Miss Burnett, Miss Ferrars, Miss Jones, would you all please stand?”

The four mentioned all rose, extremely embarrassed, as Miss Annersley went on, “I think they all deserve further appreciation for their effort and bravery.” She began to clap and, within seconds, the entire School was up on their feet cheering and clapping. Miss Annersley allowed the School to continue for some minutes before signalling for quiet once more. Smiling at the now silent School she ended the first main Assembly of the day, “That’s all for now, welcome back everyone, I hope you all have a good term.”

The Head sat back down again while waiting for the School to disperse; Miss Wilson sat beside her,

“That ankle of yours is hurting more than you thought it would, isn’t it?”

Miss Annersley shook her head, “It’s fine, Nell, it’s only a sprain, I haven’t broken anything. It would be far worse if I had any broken bones.”

“I wouldn’t be so sure of that.” It wasn’t Nell’s voice, but another, from behind her, as the other two looked across Nancy Chester appeared, she looked down at the Head, noting the signs of pain in her face, “A badly sprained ankle can be exceptionally painful, Hilda, especially if you don’t look after it.”

“Told you so!”

Miss Annersley looked over at the Deputy Head, “Third Form rhetoric, Nell?”

“Yes Hilda, you deserve it!” Nell’s grin was irrepressible, she turned to speak to the Nurse, “And she won’t tell you Nancy, so I shall. She’s not sleeping and she’s trying to get by without taking any pain relief. And she has a very high pain threshold so this ankle must be agony.”

Nancy Chester shook her head, “Hilda Annersley you are quite possibly the worst patient ever. I need to have a proper look at that ankle,” she looked round the Hall, “I don’t think it’s appropriate here though, come across to the San now.”

“But I…” The Head stopped, aware of two accusing pairs of eyes suddenly glaring at her. “Oh very well,” she said resignedly. She levered herself upright once more and, leaning on both the crutch and Miss Wilson’s shoulder, walked across to the San.

 

---

#96:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 7:09 pm

---

Sensible Hilda. She knows when resistance is futile!

 

---

#97:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! Posted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 7:19 pm

---

Thanks Lesley, At least Hilda is listening to Nancy!

 

---

#98:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 8:06 pm

---

Loved the threat of a miserable Half Term if Hilda or Nell had to stay behind with the villains!

But is Hilda's ankle going to be okay, high pain threshold or no!

Thanks, Lesley.

 

---

#99:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 9:50 pm

---

I'm glad all four of them are going back to the lessons - I think that will earn them a huge amount of respect from the women in the prison.

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

---

#100:  Author: Josie, Location: London Posted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 10:06 pm

---

Ooo - hurrah for the swimming pool!

Thanks Lesley.

 

---

#101:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 10:07 pm

---

Poor Hilda! She might have known she couldn't get away from that one!

Thankyou Lesley

 

---

#102:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Fri Sep 16, 2005 11:44 pm

---

You'd think she wouldn't try by now, wouldn't you?

Thanks Lesley.

 

---

#103:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sat Sep 17, 2005 3:16 pm

---

Later Miss Annersley had to admit that having the ankle treated, ice packs applied for twenty minutes, an Ibuprofen gel rubbed very gently into the affected area, and then a very firm and supportive bandage wrapped around the swollen and bruised joint, did ease the pain considerably. In fact she was so relieved that she agreed to rest that afternoon and every afternoon for the rest of the week without even a token protest! Miss Wilson took on any of the Head’s work that could not be postponed in the afternoons and Miss Annersley managed to catch upon a significant amount of lost sleep.

After just two days she was feeling a great deal better and felt well enough to keep a promise made during the previous term. As her ankle was still painful she asked one of the Security staff to drive her across to the Prison. John send along one of his younger Staff, Hilda knew his name - Kevin Cutter - but hadn’t had the chance to speak to him before. To her inward amusement the man seemed to be terrified of her and she gently teased out of him the reason why - laughing when he finally admitted that another of the guards, Tom Brookes, had related a number of horror stories about the Headmistress.

“Tom Brookes?” Hilda said gently, “Ah yes, I remember him. Ask him to tell you about the time he accused me of being drunk and called me a martinet! It was less than a year ago - I’m sure he will remember!”

Kevin looked across in shock for so long that the Head had to remind him to keep his eyes on the road, he swallowed, “Tom did that?” he said faintly.

“He did,” Miss Annersley smiled, “though, to be fair, he didn’t realise my identity at the time. When he discovered who I was his expression was very similar to your own!”

At this Kevin smiled somewhat sheepishly and seemed to relax somewhat. The rest of the journey was spent gently chatting, when he drew up in the Visitors’ Car Park at the Prison he swiftly got out and walked around to the other side, opening the passenger’s door and proffering his arm for the Head to lean upon. She then joined the queue of people waiting to go into the prison to visit inmates.

Promptly at 2pm the Visitors Centre opened and officers began processing the visitors; Miss Annersley was somewhat slow due to her ankle and the crutch, and the officer waiting to check her papers seemed rather impatient.

“Get a move on, darling, we’ll be here all day otherwise.”

Miss Annersley stopped, surprised at the pure derision and contempt in the officer’s voice, she looked across to read his name badge, “Mr Taylor, I am moving as quickly as possible, considering my injury and I do not appreciate either your tone or your words,” her own tone was icy, something anyone at the RCS would have attempted to avoid.

Despite himself the man looked affected, then, seeing a number of the other visitors were watching, he rallied, “Well I might just not appreciate that you have a valid visitors pass, how about that?”

By this time the Head had reached the desk and sat down, “The pass is valid, Mr Taylor, if you have a problem I suggest you speak with Miss Shaw or Mrs Knight.”

“How do you…” the man’s astonished outburst stopped as another prison officer walked up to the man and whispered in his ear. Although Miss Annersley could not hear the words, it was obvious they had had an immediate effect, the man gulped a few times then, with his cheeks burning, he spoke faintly, “Your pass and identification please, Miss Annersley.”

A short time later Hilda was being escorted, along with a number of others, to the visitors room. On the way there, the officer who had spoken to Taylor walked beside the Head,

“Hope you’ll not be reporting Taylor, Miss Annersley? He‘s new to the job, hasn‘t sorted out all his ideas yet.”

Hilda smiled, “No Mr Wood, as long as you can assure me that you will change his attitude?”

“Definitely ma’am, either that or he’ll not stay. You can’t have any sort of a grudge in this job.”

Miss Annersley nodded then limped the rest of the way into the visitor’s room, looking round she saw Butcher over in one corner and walked over toward her.

 

---

#104:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Sat Sep 17, 2005 5:08 pm

---

Hilda strikes again!

Looking forward to her visit to the prison. No shocks, I hope, Lesley.

Thank you.

 

---

#105:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Sat Sep 17, 2005 5:13 pm

---

I might well have cancelled my holiday if I had realised this was starting again!

Great as ever, Lesley and it was nice to have lots to read when I got back.

 

---

#106:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! Posted: Sat Sep 17, 2005 11:51 pm

---

Glad Miss A hasn't lost her touch.

Thanks Lesley!

 

---

#107:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 6:47 am

---

Nice one Hilda! That sorted the insolent little so-and-so!
Thank you Lesley.

 

---

#108:  Author: Josie, Location: London Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 11:40 am

---

Thanks Lesley.

 

---

#109:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 11:42 am

---

Quote:

“Mr Taylor, I am moving as quickly as possible, considering my injury and I do not appreciate either your tone or your words,” her own tone was icy, something anyone at the RCS would have attempted to avoid.

I shuddered myself when I read that! I do love Hilda, but she is scary!

Thankyou Lesley - hope Taylor changes his attitude...

 

---

#110:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 5:44 pm

---

As she reached the table Butcher smiled, “Just won a bet,” she remarked conversationally.

Miss Annersley sat down with an expression of some relief, “A bet? With whom?”

Butcher’s grin grew wider, “Just love the way you talk,” she said as an aside, then continued, “Bet was with myself, as to whether you’d turn up. Cynical part of me thought you’d be a no-show. Seen it any number of times with others waiting for visits. Anything from boyfriends and lovers finding someone else, to family ‘too ashamed’ to visit their daughter or sister in prison. Fact that the woman relies on the visits doesn’t seem to make no difference.”

“I wouldn’t have said I was coming, had I not meant it.”

“No, I realise that.” Butcher seemed to relax slightly, “It’s good to see you, last visit I had, apart from legal, was almost ten years ago. My mother.” Butcher looked round checking to see if anyone was close, but the prison officers, although keeping a close watch on all tables, were not within earshot. “I’d been found guilty of murder, was awaiting sentencing the next day. She came in to tell me that I was no longer part of the family. Suppose I should be grateful that she had to decency to tell me, I’ve known friends of mine that kept sending out visitors passes, waited every day for a visit that never came.”

“It must have been a shock for you.”

“Not really, I’d seen it coming for weeks before,” Butcher shrugged, “I told you it wasn’t my first stretch? Well, they nearly disowned me before, thing that got me? It wasn’t the ‘dreadful crime’ that bothered them. It was that I’d got caught. My dad was, and probably still is, a stockbroker, he could lose millions of dollars in a day, but so long as the figures balanced, so long as the losses weren’t put down to him, it never seemed to matter. Having a daughter who had so obviously failed did.”

“Did you never consider any form of career? You are intelligent after all.” Hilda Annersley was curious about the woman sat in front of her.

Butcher shrugged, “I’m not stupid, but wasn’t interested in any job. Didn’t want to have to start out scrimping and saving, bottom of the pile. Would have been bored out of my skull.” The inmate stopped, considering, then continued, “I’d always been in trouble,” she said, “minor things mostly. Was forever getting detention for fighting, and for not following all those petty rules and regulations so loved by hated authority figures. Don’t think you and me would’ve been on speaking terms if I’d gone to your school.”

Hilda Annersley smiled, “Probably not, I would imagine that I would have been one of the hated authority figures.”

“Probably,” Butcher grinned, “Anyway, I was excluded a couple of times, my parents always got me back in again, they kept going on about a career, said if I wanted money it was the only way. They were wrong though, there were far easier ways of getting money, and I discovered that being a girl but handy with my fists, earned me respect. Got in with a gang that used to perform most of the petty crime and vandalism in the district. Was the only girl member. They were strictly minor stuff, most of the boys too thick for anything more. I got so p*ssed with the boss, ending up challenging him.”

“What happened?”

Butcher laughed, “First time? I got my head kicked in, but he was impressed that I’d lasted as long as I did, and that I wouldn’t quit, he let me stay - his mistake. Six months later, after spending three hours a day, every day in the gym, learning karate and kick boxing, I challenged him again. Knocked him out after just 30 seconds. Then did the same to his second. Rest of the boys voted me boss.”

“How old were you then?”

“Then? About thirteen, I was lucky in a way, the boys hadn’t started their growth spurts then and I was a bit of a late developer, so we competed on more or less equal terms. As we all got older of course, the boys all grew bigger and stronger - but by then I’d got good enough at the gym that I was learning about how to take down bigger, stronger opponents.”

“And was that all that you did?” Hilda Annersley was genuinely interested.

Butcher looked across at her, “No, once I was boss we started being more than just little nuisances, we moved on. The School and Police could never understand the attraction, but when you’ve spent hours planning, working out how to do a job, all the resources you need, the split second timing, even the danger of being caught, well, to say you’ll jack it all in, go back to a ‘normal’ life. There was no contest. Being able to outwit those self same authority figures - it was a way of life.”

“You cannot have been completely successful,” Miss Annersley observed, “I assume you were caught?”

“Yeah, I was caught, a number of times, especially at the beginning. I was only learning the job, after all. Sometimes I’d be caught because others couldn’t keep their mouths shut. They’d grass on me, to save themselves,” Butcher paused here for a time, and her expression darkened, “they learnt, too late, that that was a mistake.” She looked over at the woman say opposite, “I don’t forgive that, you know. No excuses. They learnt the hard way that telling the cops anything was a big mistake.”

There was silence for a time, then Butcher shook herself, “You’re better than any of the counsellors or psyches they have here, Annersley, can’t remember the last time I told anyone any of this.”

“I find it interesting, Butcher,” Hilda replied, “And I do not want to judge, only to learn.”

Butcher nodded, “Yeah, that’s probably why I can talk to you, but I’ve done enough talking for now, it’s your turn. So how’d you hurt your foot then?”

 

---

#111:  Author: Miriam, Location: Jerusalem, Israel Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 6:06 pm

---

Confession time for Miss Annersley!

THanks for giving us all that background information. Butcher really seems to be starting to trust Miss Annnersley.

 

---

#112:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 6:44 pm

---

Hilda teaching us all that, for people to give away their secrets, all you need is an imagination to understand others and a warmth to beguile them.

Lovely, Lesley.

 

---

#113:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 7:43 pm

---

Lovely to get some background on Butcher's life. I'm just wondering where this is leading. Haven't got any theories though!!!

 

---

#114:  Author: Josie, Location: London Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 9:29 pm

---

Echoes Pat re: background on Butcher. Thanks Lesley.

 

---

#115:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 10:26 pm

---

Fascinating background, Lesley, thankyou. I'm glad Butcher is starting to trust Hilda and open up - but also am wondering just where it is going to lead!

*straps on cliff harness just in case*

 

---

#116:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 10:47 pm

---

Butcher just wouldn't stop talking - I didn't think I should argue with her!

Back at the Real Chalet School there was an unexpected visitor for the Deputy Head; she was in her Study, attempting to set up a PowerPoint presentation for her Sixth Form Chemistry class, unfortunately the computer was not co-operating. When Rosalie Dene knocked on the door it was a somewhat fraught Miss Wilson that replied,

“What is it, Rosalie, I’m in the middle of something here.”

“There’s a visitor to see you, Nell, wanted either you or Hilda. I can ask him to wait if you’re busy.”

“Does he know anything about PowerPoint? If so he can come in.”

There was a muffled conversation outside then the door was opened, “I know a little about it,” a male voice said calmly, “and I know how annoying it can be too. I once stamped on my laptop after losing a talk I was going to be giving in half an hour.”

Nell Wilson looked across, it was Ian French, the lawyer Hilda had engaged to fight Cherry’s case the previous November. Her face relaxed into a half smile and she rose from her desk, hand outstretched. “Ian, it’s good to see you, what brings you all the way out here? Nothing wrong I hope?”

The tall man shook his head, grasping Nell’s hand firmly to shake, “Nope, nothing wrong, got some news I thought you might be interested in, and wanted to re-introduce myself. I going to be a neighbour of yours for the next three months.”

Miss Wilson indicated the small table, removed a number of files and text books from it and piled onto a spare chair, she quickly brought across a jug of water and two glasses, poured out water for them both, “You’re going to be a neighbour?” she said with some puzzlement, “I thought you lived in Melbourne?”

“I do,” Ian replied, “But a friend of mine has a place in Port Nepean, right on the coast. He’s away in Europe for three months, asked if I could house-sit. The place is huge, it’s right on the beach, I couldn’t say yes quick enough. When I realised how close the school was, thought I’d say hello, especially as I have news.”

“Oh, what news?”

“The Blakes, thought you could decide if Cherry Elliott should be told this, didn’t know if it’d upset her.”

“What? What have they done?”

“Nothing terrible,” Ian smiled, “Just that I heard they’ve been successful in adopting a kid, one they were fostering.”

“You mean they tried…?” Nell stopped as she saw Ian shake his head,

“No, they’d not be so stupid as to try that again,” Ian said quickly, “They were fostering a little girl, she was only a few months old. Only a short term thing, initially, a few weeks, just while the little girl’s mum had some op in hospital. Only the poor woman died, unexpected complications. The little girl had no relatives and, after a lot of talk and discussion, it was decided to award custody to the Blakes.”

Miss Wilson thought for a moment, then sighed, “Well I suppose it’s good for them,” she said eventually, “Though in a way it almost seems to be too good, after what they tried to do to Cherry.”

“I thought that too,” the lawyer confessed, “Though even Cherry agreed that the Blakes had looked after Robbie well.”

“True.”

“How are they getting on, by the way? Cherry and her son?”

“Well,” Miss Wilson smiled, “Very well, they’ve both settled in to life here. They both appear very happy, and we love having them.”

“Good,” There was a pause, then, “Now what about this PowerPoint thing?”

“Oh yes, can you help, do you think?”

“I’ll have a go,” Ian returned, “And if I can’t fix it either we can stamp on it together.”

“You didn’t really do that did you?”

“Oh yes, sometimes you’ve got to show all this modern technology just who’s boss!” Ian French grinned across at the Deputy Head, “Though I must admit, when I did it, it cost me over a thousand dollars to repair the thing. But the satisfaction was wonderful.”

 

---

#117:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 11:46 pm

---

I'll bet!

Two great conversations Lesley and no I wouldn't argue with Butcher either. Am fascinated by her views on organising, planning and leading crime. This is one leader talking to another, despite their profound differences.

Am sort of glad it ended ok for the Blakes, but do share Nell and Ian's reservations . . .

 

---

#118:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Sun Sep 18, 2005 11:51 pm

---

Lots of lovely posts there Lesley! Thank you!

 

---

#119:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2005 7:37 am

---

Glad to see other people have problems with modern technology as well!

Thanks, Lesley.

 

---

#120:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2005 10:12 am

---

Quote:

I once stamped on my laptop after losing a talk I was going to be giving in half an hour.”

*Wipes tears of laughter from eyes*

Oh how we have all longed to do that from time to time!

Thankyou Lesley - nice to see Ian again.

 

---

#121:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2005 10:34 am

---

Thank you Lesley. The powerpoint incident almost sounds as though you are speaking form experience...definately tempting on occassion.

Lovely conversations - so is Hilda going to tell Butcher how she hurt her foot?

 

---

#122:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2005 1:44 pm

---

Caught up from the weekend.

How well I know that feeling with computers and technology!

I do wonder where we are going...is Butcher going to be a part of this; Do we need her background; has Ian been brought back because they are going to need him?

 

---

#123:  Author: pim, Location: Helmel Hampster Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2005 5:11 pm

---

Hurrah, caught up from last week! I think stamping on laptops is a *very* efficient way of dealing with them when they don't co-operate, might *not* try that one with the pp projector at work though...

In anticipation of cliffs, however, I have checked out under my desk at work and it's a fairly suitable replacement for the sad lack of uni one

Thank you Lesley!

 

---

#124:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2005 9:58 pm

---

Miss Annersley returned from her prison visit that evening and had an early night; the following morning she pronounced herself well enough to be working full time once more. It had rained heavily the night before and, even before the Head and Deputy Head had walked across to the School, they had been informed of a number of niggling maintenance problems, therefore her return to full fitness was probably opportune. At Assembly that morning Miss Annersley passed on some of the news about the problems.

“Those of you that have lessons in the gym today,” she began, “the changing rooms are not to be used, a serious leak has developed, flooding some of the rooms. The Gym itself is fine, but please take your gym kit back to your boarding houses to change. You will also be given enough time to go back there for a shower afterwards. Mr Coates has assured me that the repair will be completed over the weekend so there will be disruption only today.

“That is all for now, everyone, file out and start the day!”

Later that morning a number of the girls from the Upper Third filed noisily across to their dormitories to get changed, their talk full of plans they had for the weekend.

“Well whatever you’ve got planned here at the School,” Sophie Beare said quickly, “I bet it won’t be as good as my plans.” Sophie was a weekly boarder and went home at the weekend.

“Why do you say that?” her friend Beth Malam said quickly, “You’ve always hated that you weren’t here for the weekends, you’ve been begging your mum to let you be a full boarder.”

“Not any more,” Sophie said with a smile, “not now I’ve met Jamie Dawson, now the weekends are wonderful.”

“You’ve done nothing but talk about Jamie all week,” another of the girls, Clare Almack said wearily, “it’s getting boring! And he’s nearly seventeen, years older.”

“He's sixteen and I’m thirteen, it’s not that big a difference.”

“You’re not thirteen until next February,” Beth said, “And you told me he’ll be seventeen in November.”

“Bet your mum doesn’t know how old he is.” this from another of the girls Sara Joyce, “she wouldn’t let you see him if she did.”

“Don’t know why not, three years gap isn’t much, and anyway, he’s different. He’s out at work so he’s got some money, he’s even got a little moped.”

“No way your mum would let you out on that.”

“Well, what she doesn’t know won’t hurt her!” Sophie said defiantly.

Then a new voice entered the conversation, “You must feel really grown up, Sophie,”

The girls looked round in alarm, the voice wasn’t that of another girl, but that of an adult. They looked over and saw one of the cleaners, Cherry Elliott, standing there. She had just finished cleaning the bathrooms and was about to start on the dormitory itself. Cherry walked over and sat on one of the beds opposite the girls, she spoke again, “How grown up does he make you feel, Sophie?”

“I-I-I don’t know what you…”

“Yes you do, I can see it in your eyes,” Cherry was very intense, “Has he asked you yet? Yes he has, I can see that too. What did you say?”

“I said no,” Sophie burst out indignantly, “he was fine about it, said it was no trouble.”

“Did he say he understood, that you were only young, after all?”

“What do you mean, Cherry?” It was Beth who asked the question, like all the girls they knew and were friendly with the young woman responsible for cleaning their House.

Cherry continued staring at Sophie, “Has he said he’s not sure if he should be going out with someone so young?”

“Yeees, but that just shows how sensitive he is, he’s worried that he’s too old for me.”

Cherry shook her head, “No he’s not, he’s grooming you. You look older than twelve, Sophie, perhaps even fifteen or sixteen, you didn’t always look this old. Have you changed your appearance?”

“Hey yes, she has,” Clare said suddenly, “in the last few months you’ve really changed, new hairstyle, make up when you can get away with it.”

Sophie was unable to take her eyes from Cherry, “Jamie said I looked nicer, more grown up. He likes me to look good.”

“Yes,” Cherry nodded, “Was it his idea that you not tell your mum how old he was? Not tell her about the moped?”

“Yes, but…”

“He’s using you Sophie.” Cherry’s tone was definite. “He’s using you and he’s manipulating you. I know that because I’ve seen it so many times, and the first time I fell for it I was only a few years older than you are now. Have you decided to give him what he wants yet, Sophie?”

“What he…” Sophie stopped, then, almost despite herself, she nodded, “He loves me,” she said simply.

“If he loved you he’d be prepared to wait,” Cherry said quickly, “If he loved you he wouldn’t feel the need to change you, if he loved you he’d respect you.”

There was silence for a time then Sophie raised her head defiantly, “You can’t stop me!”

Cherry shook her head, “No, I can just watch as you take your first step down the same road I slid down - and you don’t want to go that route, Sophie.” The sudden vehemence in her voice made all the girls jump. "You know my Robbie? He’ll be four in September, I’ll be twenty very soon. Do the maths girl, when I got pregnant the boy I loved and thought loved me disappeared. Is that what you want?”

“I’d be careful…”

“Yeah? You know how to protect yourself, not just against a baby but against disease? Think about it kid because, much as I love my son, wouldn’t trade him for the world, the way he was brought into this world and the things I had to do. I wouldn’t wish them on my worst enemy. You think about it Sophie, and have some respect for yourself.”

There was a stunned silence for some seconds, then another voice was heard, “Thank you Miss Elliott, however I think it’s about time these girls were moving across to the Gym.” It was Miss Annersley.

At the words the girls all leapt to their feet, staring across at the Head in some fear, Miss Annersley saw this and merely nodded, “Move along girls, when you see Miss Burnett extend my apologies for keeping you.”

The girls all gathered up their belongings and fled without saying a word. Inside the dormitory Miss Annersley and Cherry looked at each other, Cherry was the first to speak,

“You heard what I said?”

“I did, we need to discuss this.” The Head looked at her watch, “I am due at a meeting of the Housemistresses now, perhaps I could see you at the end of the morning? At twelve o’clock?”

Cherry nodded, “I’ll be there, Miss Annersley.”

 

---

#125:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2005 10:12 pm

---

I'm very interested in what Hilda will say!

 

---

#126:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2005 10:13 pm

---

Ooooh, the modern world indeed!

Thankyou Lesley, what will happen now?

 

---

#127:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2005 10:16 pm

---

That is very interesting Lesley. Cherry was spot on with what she said, and very careful to be ambiguous so that she didn't tell the other girls any more than they already knew whilst warning Sophie, and yet...it wasn't her role to do that. I would hate to be in Hilda's position now.

 

---

#128:  Author: Josie, Location: London Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2005 11:05 pm

---

I think a 'well said Cherry' is in order!

Thanks Lesley, good to see more of Cherry here, I do like her as a character.

 

---

#129:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Mon Sep 19, 2005 11:06 pm

---

Well done Cherry - that was excellently handled.

I think the girls would take such a conversation from her far better than they would from a mistress, not just because she's not an authority figure, but because she could mention her experience too.

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

---

#130:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 1:59 am

---

Ummm, this is problematic. Cherry is absolutely right, and said it very ambiguously, so that it only really made sense to two of her hearers. And Sophie does now know what her lowlife boyfriend has in mind. But, I can see some of the parents having problems with Cherry's revelations, should they find out about them, and Hilda might have some issues to deal with re the whole boyfriends thing, and hoe the school responds.

Very thought-provoking Lesley!

 

---

#131:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 6:23 am

---

Good for Cherry. I wonder how the school will deal with that? From their background they may well not have realised that 12 yr olds nowadays can face such things.

It's a problem for parents to know how far to go with that sort of education - and exactly when.

I think you've handed Hilda a VERY hot potato, Lesley.

I loved Baker asking Hilda how she hurt her foot

Thanks for 3 lovely posts, Lesley. I'm not even guessing where you're going, just enjoying things as they come.

 

---

#132:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 8:04 am

---

I do hope Cherry is not going to get a scolding from Hilda for her words But should she have revealed quite so much of her own background in her attempt to help? Very difficult for Hilda.

As patmac says, a very hot potato. How to bring the problems home to the girls without upsetting everyone in the process.

Thank you, Lesley.

 

---

#133:  Author: Robin, Location: London Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 8:51 am

---

ooh tricky. well said, but was it really Cherry's place to?

Looking forward to seeing hilda's reaction, lesley.

 

---

#134:  Author: Mia, Location: London Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 10:36 am

---

Yay! It's back! Excellent

*Off to read it all again!*

Thanks Lesley

 

---

#135:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 10:40 am

---

Tricky - I think Cherry handled it really well but can see that Hilda needs to talk to her about it...and then what?

Thank you Lesley.

 

---

#136:  Author: Nicola, Location: Derbyshire Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 1:05 pm

---

Ooh yes, I like that, very interesting indeed. I wonder what Hilda will say to Cherry? And how she will decide to handle Sophie? If only self respect could be taught to girls along with the rest of the curriculum, how easy life would be.

Thanks, Lesley.

 

---

#137:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 3:03 pm

---

Yay for Lesley!!

 

---

#138:  Author: pim, Location: Helmel Hampster Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 4:25 pm

---

Thanks Lesley, good luck to Hilda though.

*eyes desk cautiously*

 

---

#139:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 5:16 pm

---

Eeek!

I do hope this won't mean trouble for Cherry! And also that Sophie has had her wake up call in time!

 

---

#140:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 8:01 pm

---

I can't believe I didn't notice this starting! The curse of being way far behind.... thanks partially to yes, that evil daemon, PowerPoint. I don't think stomping the computer will help, though.

Thanks, Lesley!

So... will Cherry get a reprimand -- or a position as guidance counselor?

 

---

#141:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 9:03 pm

---

When the Head appeared in her Study a few minutes after twelve; it was to find Cherry Elliott pacing up and down inside,

“Cherry my dear, I’m so sorry,” Miss Annersley smiled, “my meeting over-ran and I couldn’t get away. What on Earth are you doing?”

Cherry stopped her pacing and looked across at the woman who had so turned her life around, a stricken expression on her face, “Hilda, I mean Miss Annersley, I’m really sorry, I know I shouldn’t have spoken to the girls like that, it wasn’t my place to say those things and I…” She stopped as Hilda held up a hand.

“Cherry, won’t you please sit down? I find it very difficult to concentrate with you pacing the floor.” As she said this the Head sat at the small oval table, indicated a chair opposite. Cherry quickly sat, facing the older woman. “Now Cherry,” Miss Annersley continued, “First, it’s Hilda, there’s no need to be official. I didn’t ask you here to reprimand you. As I said, we need to discuss your actions and what prompted them.”

Cherry took a deep breath, the look of relief on her face unmistakable, she nodded quickly, “How much did you hear?”

“I heard you speaking to Sophie Beare, warning her about her ‘boyfriend’ giving her some very good advice, incidentally. May I ask, exactly what had Sophie told you?”

Cherry swallowed slightly, flushed, “I-I can’t…” she stopped as Hilda shook her head,

“Forgive me Cherry, I shouldn’t have asked.” Hilda sat in thought for a time, “What I’m about to say is told to you in confidence, Cherry, I expect you to treat this information in the same way as you treat any other confidences.”

Cherry smiled slightly, “No grassing, Hilda,” she agreed.

“Exactly,” Miss Annersley smiled, “I have received communication from Sophie’s mother, Mrs Beare asked that Sophie be made a full boarder this term. She has detailed her reasons as solely because Sophie has been seeing a ‘boy’ that her family have discovered is unreliable. Sophie is not aware of the fact yet. I planned to speak to her this afternoon, give her a letter from her parents. Now, knowing that, might I ask if Sophie had told you of her involvement with this boy?”

Cherry thought for a time, then nodded slightly.

“Good,” the Head sighed, thinking deeply, “the age of twelve seems far too young for all of this,” she mused, “it’s certainly not something we ever came across in the original school. It seems far too early to worry about addressing these problems, yet, if we do not, then the children will make mistakes, mistakes that may colour their entire adult life.”

Cherry nodded then spoke, “I read somewhere that girls seemed to be maturing earlier, compared with when you were at school.”

Miss Annersley looked across with a wry expression, “Most definitely, Cherry, you have no idea!” She paused for a moment, then continued, “During a review of the curriculum earlier this year, Nell and I addressed a number of issues, one of them was that of puberty, reproduction…”

“Sex education?”

Miss Annersley nodded slightly, “Yes. We decided at the time to introduce it for the Seniors, but that now seems far too late. This term it will be taught to the Middles too. However, one thing that Miss Andrews has already mentioned as being a problem is something I think you may be able to help with.”

“Me?” Cherry was surprised, “What can I do?”

“You can speak to the girls at their level,” the Head returned, “they will listen to you where they will not listen to any of the Mistresses. You are closer to their age, you speak their language and if you want to bring your own experiences in, it will make the talk more realistic.”

“You want me to talk to the pupils?” Cherry had gone pale.

“Yes, as a guest speaker, perhaps, to begin with just once a term for each form. Exactly what you would say is up to you, Cherry, however if you were to include similar information to that I heard earlier today I will be content.”

Cherry looked stunned, “But, what about the parents? Any number of them will likely kick up a fuss about teaching the kids about sex anyway, I know loads did at my school, seemed to think that telling them meant they’d want to try it out. Then you want an ex-con and prostitute to speak to them? They’ll never agree to it.”

Miss Annersley smiled, “There are some advantages to being a private school, Cherry. All parents and guardians are aware that the Real Chalet School will, as far as is possible, prepare the pupils for adulthood. The curriculum is published well in advance and any new items are sent to all for comment. We did have some parents asking that their child be excluded from the lessons on puberty and sex education…”

Cherry noticed that Hilda appeared to find it difficult to enunciate the last few words, but then concentrated on what was being said.

“…however, it was considered a mandatory course, in the same way as the lectures on Diversity, Bullying and First Aid. When this was explained to parents the vast majority agreed.”

“What about those that still didn’t agree?” Cherry was curious.

The Head looked across, “There are also some advantages, Cherry, to having autonomy and being an autocrat. Those parents and guardians that do not wish their children to partake in all the mandatory courses are perfectly at liberty to remove their child from the school. While I can understand their concerns, speaking of these matters to children of ten and eleven can seem to be far to early; the consequences if they are not given the information are too great.”

“Did any parents do that? Move their kids from the school, I mean.”

Miss Annersley nodded, “Yes, they were given excellent references for other schools, it was only a handful of pupils though. Now what of my request, will you consider it?”

“I’ll think about it, Hilda, seems like a bit of a shock,” Cherry laughed, “I thought you were going to sack me, never realised it would be something like this!”

“You managed to get through to that girl, Cherry, and you did it in such a way that the rest of her classmates did not have to hear the whole sordid details about exactly what Sophie had been asked. I think you will be a perfect addition to the classes, your input will reinforce all they have been taught. I obviously would not want you to reveal anything that made you uncomfortable, and certainly they have no reason to learn of your more recent past. But your experiences as a school girl will be very useful.”

Cherry nodded, “As I said, I need to think about it, can I let you know later?”

“After the weekend will be fine, Cherry,” Miss Annersley smiled, “take your time.” As she finished speaking the bell rang, “Ah, lunchtime, good. I’ll see you later.”

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Sep 21, 2005 4:50 am; edited 1 time in total

 

---

#142:  Author: Liane, Location: Manchester England Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 9:11 pm

---

Fantastic Lesley, thank you.
Good for Cherry!

 

---

#143:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 9:33 pm

---

Well done Hilda!

I noticed Hilda found it difficult to come straight out with 'sex education'. As she was teaching in the 1930s, I can imagine that to be a pretty accurate reaction. I think it was inspired to make the leap to realising that Cherry would be the right person to talk to the girls.

Thanks Lesley.

 

---

#144:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 11:30 pm

---

Phew - just read all of this and safely escaped the first minor cliff

thanks Lesley for posting so much so quickly - long may it continue

 

---

#145:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Tue Sep 20, 2005 11:52 pm

---

Fascinating! I can see Hilda's problem - she recognises that these children need to know at a much earlier age than she and her contemporaries ever did, or indeed the pupils that she first taught, and is fully prepared to tackle the issue, but there is still that automatic little resistance within her.

And full marks for her recognition of Cherry's potential. Cherry is a very bright girl.

 

---

#146:  Author: Josie, Location: London Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 7:02 am

---

Hurrah! Glad Cherry's potential was realised. Can see her doing really well at this,

Thanks Lesley.

 

---

#147:  Author: Nicola, Location: Derbyshire Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 7:10 am

---

Good for Hilda. I lok forward to seeing how the girls respond to Cherry's lessons. Thanks, Lesley.

 

---

#148:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 7:20 am

---

That was fantastic, Lesley, with Hilda being her usual perceptive self, even if it goes against the grain for her. She has clearly thought through all the consequences and is prepared to do all that is necessary, even if that means bringing on board someone the parents might not consider suitable. Being an *autocrat* - as she calls herself - means she can do just that and get away with it.

Thank you.

 

---

#149:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 8:39 am

---

Phew, that was good Lesley. Cherry will be able to get through to the girls in a way the staff can't, esp those staff who are 'original' and who find teaching this hard. It was good to see Hilda realising her own difficulties in that and pushing through for the sake of the girls.

I also noticed that she did not correct can to may in Cherry's last sentence! How kind of her.

 

---

#150:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 11:07 am

---

That was wondeful Lesley!

Very glad Hilda wasn't cross with Cherry, quite the opposite in fact!

 

---

#151:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 11:18 am

---

Good for Hilda!

Thanks Lesley!

 

---

#152:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 11:18 am

---

Wonderful. Thank you Lesley.

 

---

#153:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 11:38 am

---

Thannks Lesley. I nearly said that the interview could go in one of two ways, but then thought better of it! This was one of them.

 

---

#154:  Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 11:57 am

---

I don't know what the age for legal sexual intercourse is in Australia, but in England it is 16, so for Cherry to say that she had Robbie at 16 is legal here(though I won't ask 16 years and how many months ). She is just saying "it was difficult", so I don't think would parents/carers be able to object to Cherry. Just sex ed. in general.

 

---

#155:  Author: Rachel,  Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 12:05 pm

---

Woohoooooo have finished reading Dilemma and started straight in with this!

Looking forward to next posts Lesley.

 

---

#156:  Author: Mia, Location: London Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 1:41 pm

---

Hilda was very sensible, Cherry can contribute a lot. Hope not too many parents object!

Thanks Lesley

 

---

#157:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 5:05 pm

---

Lyanne wrote:

I don't know what the age for legal sexual intercourse is in Australia, but in England it is 16, so for Cherry to say that she had Robbie at 16 is legal here(though I won't ask 16 years and how many months ). She is just saying "it was difficult", so I don't think would parents/carers be able to object to Cherry. Just sex ed. in general.

Lyanne- Cherry was 15 when Robbie was conceived (Ref JOW). She was sixteen less than two months before he was born.

Sorry all who thought this more story - haven't written it yet!

 

---

#158:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 6:37 pm

---

Thanks Lesley - Hope Cherry accepts the offer

Liz

 

---

#159:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 6:56 pm

---

Fabulous Lesley! Loved Hilda being an autocrat, Geri Shaw showing Sullivan who's in charge and Cherry being very subtle. It's great to be back in the RCS world again.

 

---

#160:  Author: Rachel,  Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 7:22 pm

---

Lesley wrote:

Cherry was 15 when Robbie was conceived (Ref JOW). She was sixteen less than two months before he was born.

I googled "age of consent australia" and was told the legal age of consent varies from state to state but is generally 17 (any aussies care to confirm/decry this?) - either UK or Aus, Cherry was a naughty girl

 

---

#161:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 9:20 pm

---

Only a little bit tonight - too tired and the words refuse to flow. More tomorrow.

The following day dawned very wet; on her return from a short run Nell Wilson found her partner sitting checking the Weather Channel, she turned, “This rain is going to be with us all day,” she said, passing across a large towel.

Nell took the towel and attempted to dry herself quickly, “I suppose a barbeque is out of the question then?”

“I think so, I don’t think we could be so cruel as to force Jem and Jack out in this!”

“Oh, I don’t know,” Nell said with a gleam in her eye, “I think I would enjoy it!” She turned to leave the room, “I’m going to get showered and changed,” she said.

“I’ll make breakfast then.”

A short time later the pair were sat at the breakfast table, “We’ll just have everyone inside then, Hilda,” Nell said, continuing their conversation, “There shouldn’t be a problem, we’ve got enough room, and we’ve time to get everything sorted. Are you going across to the School?”

Hilda nodded, “Yes, only for an hour at most, just to check Ruth’s alright covering. I’ll tell her to come across this afternoon anyway - I’m sure there can’t be much that she still has to do. “

“Good, well I’m going to go and pick up Robbie in a minute, take him into town. Cherry said she’d make a start on the salads and such.”

Later, when Hilda returned to the cottage, it was to find only Cherry there, busy chopping salad vegetables in the kitchen. She looked across as Hilda entered the room,

“Hi Hilda, how’s the foot?”

“Better,” Hilda replied, “although this weather doesn’t help, it’s very wet out and it makes the ground slippery. Have you been here long?”

“’bout an hour,” Cherry grimaced slightly, “Nell ran away with Robbie, neither of them would tell me why they needed to go into town.”

“Oh they’ll be back soon, now, I think I’ll make a start at cooking the sausage rolls and pizzas.”

“You know why they’ve gone, don’t you?”

“Yes.”

“And?”

“Have you finished the salads yet?”

“Oh rats!” Cherry gave up and turned back to the chopping board.

Her curiosity wasn’t relieved when Nell and Robbie returned, both giggling. However, by then they were all kept busy getting everything ready, even Robbie helping by carrying jars and cutlery in to place on the main dining table. Alison, Louise and Carol appeared shortly afterwards and pitched in helping. By two pm everything was in place, ready for their guests.

 

---

#162:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 9:43 pm

---

Thank you Lesley!!!

Hilda and Nell can be SO aggravating when they're keeping secrets!

 

---

#163:  Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 10:03 pm

---

Crikey... I can't believe I didn't notice this

Lovely to see the RCS back Lesley, can't wait to see what adventures they'll get up to next time.

JackieJ

 

---

#164:  Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England Posted: Wed Sep 21, 2005 10:14 pm

---

Thank you Lesley for clarifying that:

Quote:

Lyanne wrote: I don't know what the age for legal sexual intercourse is in Australia, but in England it is 16, so for Cherry to say that she had Robbie at 16 is legal here(though I won't ask 16 years and how many months ). She is just saying "it was difficult", so I don't think would parents/carers be able to object to Cherry. Just sex ed. in general. Lyanne- Cherry was 15 when Robbie was conceived (Ref JOW). She was sixteen less than two months before he was born.

I did think that she was under age when he was conceived, I was trying to say if the age of consent in Australia were 16, it could have been legal, and the illegality of it need not be stressed to parents, although to paraphrase Hilda, they can like it or leave! I think Cherry is a wonderful character, and I am so glad she has Hilda and Nell and Robbie.

 

---

#165:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 12:06 am

---

Hilda and Nell keeping secrets - oh dear!

Thank you Lesley. Hope you sleep well and that the words return.

 

---

#166:  Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 1:24 am

---

Lyanne wrote:

Thank you Lesley for clarifying that: Quote: Lyanne wrote: I don't know what the age for legal sexual intercourse is in Australia, but in England it is 16, so for Cherry to say that she had Robbie at 16 is legal here(though I won't ask 16 years and how many months ). She is just saying "it was difficult", so I don't think would parents/carers be able to object to Cherry. Just sex ed. in general. Lyanne- Cherry was 15 when Robbie was conceived (Ref JOW). She was sixteen less than two months before he was born. I did think that she was under age when he was conceived, I was trying to say if the age of consent in Australia were 16, it could have been legal, and the illegality of it need not be stressed to parents, although to paraphrase Hilda, they can like it or leave! I think Cherry is a wonderful character, and I am so glad she has Hilda and Nell and Robbie.

Here, the age of consent refers to the age that an adult wouldn't get in trouble for being with someone younger. In other words, the age at which satutory rape no longer applies. The minor doesn't get into trouble, it is the (older) partner who does. So, Cherry would not have done anything illegal if she conceived at 15 - though Robbie's father would have. Does the age of consent work differently in Australia?

 

---

#167:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 7:34 am

---

A nice peaceful interlude - loved the gleam in Nell's eyes as she thought about making Jack and Jem cook in the rain.

Thanks, Lesley.

 

---

#168:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 7:57 am

---

Lesley wrote:

“I suppose a barbeque is out of the question then?” “I think so, I don’t think we could be so cruel as to force Jem and Jack out in this!” “Oh, I don’t know,” Nell said with a gleam in her eye, “I think I would enjoy it!”

I'm reminded of Darren at the SG...

 

---

#169:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 9:10 am

---

Thank you Lesley. Agree that hilda and Nell are very aggravating when keeping secrets - wondering about the nature of this particular one!

 

---

#170:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 9:32 am

---

*thinks* Is it Cherry's birthday?

Thank you!

 

---

#171:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash/Aberystwyth Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 9:52 am

---

*heaves a huge sigh of relief*

FINALLY caught up! Well, not really, I've not finished RCS 6 yet! But I'm up to date on RCS 7.

Thank you, Lesley - loving this so far! Definitely agree that Cherry is the best person to talk to the girls about sex ed., and I think it's most certainly something which needs to be covered in modern schools.

Love how Hilda injured her ankle

 

---

#172:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 6:10 pm

---

Thanks Lesley

*very curious about the secret*

Hope you are less tired and the words flow more easily for you *hugs*

Liz

 

---

#173:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 9:13 pm

---

Nell wrote:

Thank you Lesley. Agree that hilda and Nell are very aggravating when keeping secrets - wondering about the nature of this particular one!

It isn't Hilda and Nell being aggravating. Is it Lesley, dear?

Seriously, I hope the words flow better today.

 

---

#174:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 12:04 am

---

oooh wonderful - thank you for so many updates Lesley!

Good for Cherry, I do hope she'll accept Hilda's offer. I think certainly the older staff ie those from the original Chalet are definitely out of touch with modern attitudes to the subject and wouldn't know how to approach it. Cherry may just be able to get through to them so well done to her, and well done to Hilda for realising that.

I love Hilda's conversation with the guard and Butcher - glad to see the injury to her ankle hasn't affected her tongue.

 

---

#175:  Author: Josie, Location: London Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 6:33 am

---

Thanks Lesley,

 

---

#176:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 10:20 am

---

First to arrive were Madge and Jem Russell, in the more than seven months since Cherry had been at the RCS, they had met her on a fair number of occasions, of course Robbie was very familiar with them both. Jem in particular getting on very well with the little boy. Shortly afterwards Jack and Joey Maynard arrived, on hearing that a barbeque was not going to be possible the two men insisted instead on mixing drinks for everyone and also managed to show Robbie how to do the same. At least they did until Madge discovered what they were doing and stopped them, declaring that Robbie was too young to be corrupted. After that the three contented themselves with building tanks out of Robbie’s Lego pieces.

When Alison and the others arrived they joined Cherry in the kitchen cooking food and handing items round, they also took over mixing drinks for everyone. The girls all insisted that Hilda and Nell sit down and relax. They therefore were surrounded by friends, as well as Madge and Joey, they were joined by Ruth and Rosalind, Nancy and Kathie. The eight all settled for an afternoon of gossip and reminiscences.

Madge related how well the Russells’ trip to England had gone - they had stayed with her twin, Dick Bettany, and his family.

“Although he’s no longer my younger brother,” Madge said, smiling, “I always before said that I outranked him by some twenty minutes but now, I think he’s about eight years older!”

“Wish we could have gone across with you,” this from Joey, “Oh I know, someone had to mind the business, but even so, he’s my brother too.”

“Never mind,” Madge reached across to hug her sister, “You’ll see him in September, he and Mollie are coming over for a month, maybe longer.”

“Didn’t you have some news for us too, Joey?” Nell Wilson asked, “You said you’d announce it here.”

“Oh yes,” Joey said, smiling, she turned to where Jack was sat playing with Robbie, using small Lego bricks as missiles, “It’s Jack’s news really, but as he’s occupied, I’ll tell you. Jack has decided that he is going for further training, to re-qualify as a doctor. Daisy has already been discussing his training schedule.”

The other women looked a little surprised at this, typically Hilda was the first to comment, “Is Jack certain about this, Joey? After all he will be starting from the very bottom once more, and there will be an exceptional amount to learn.”

“I’m sure,” it was Jack’s voice, he had obviously finished attempting to annihilate Robbie and Jem’s tanks. He looked round at everyone and smiled, “I’ve been thinking about this for some time, in fact, from when we first transferred across. The one thing that was stopping me though was the thought of starting at the bottom again. Then, after what happened to Joey last September,” he turned and smiled at Nell Wilson, “and to Nell of course,”

Nell nodded gravely and Jack continued,

“Well I started thinking, why shouldn’t I do something that I’m interested in, that I enjoy?” he grinned, “and if Hilda and Nell can go back to university, I should be able to manage Medical School! These past nine months or so I‘ve spent all my free time reading up as much as possible about anatomy, physiology and the like. Refreshing my memory in part, and learning all the areas that have changed. Daisy is happy for me to start in as a third year medical student. She’ll review my status every six months along with the tutors.”

There was a pause while all the women there congratulated Jack, he seemed aware that he had made the right decision, Nancy Wilmot, remembering the arrogant man who, along with Jem Russell, had attempted to take over the RCS board so long ago, marvelled at the change in him. He seemed to have embraced the new century.

Later Madge Russell spoke to Hilda and Nell about another matter, “We’ll need to get together officially some time soon.” she began, “about the request you passed across to me, Hilda.”

Hilda nodded, “The one from Rosalind Moore, I assume?”

“Yes,” seeing that Nell looked a little confused Madge elaborated, “She’s put in a request to be able to rent one of the empty cottages on-site,”

“Oh, yes Hilda did mentioned it, is there a problem?”

Madge shook her head, “Not a problem as such,” she said, “Just that, originally the cottages were designed for those original staff who wanted a home of their own. I didn’t think we’d be having married couples there. And with Rosalind’s news..”

Rosalind Moore had officially announced that she was expected a baby during the holidays, as soon as the first twelve weeks were complete. Her estimated date of delivery was thought to be January 8th 2006. When speaking to the Head, Rosalind had asked about the possibility of returning to work part-time, and also whether it would be possible for her and her husband, Geoff Stevens, to rent one of the cottages on the School grounds.

“I think it is worth considering, Madge,” Hilda replied, “Our situation here is somewhat different to when in the original chalet school. Then most Staff had homes to return to and would leave the School during the holidays - I except Nell and myself, of course, Elinor always appeared to want to keep us close - but now, the School is home to many. Now there are some who are more than content with their rooms in the Staff House, especially as they may inhabit them all year round, but some want something more tangible, something they can call theirs.”

“We’d not have a problem with the girls either, Madge,” Nell put in, “these cottages have always been off limits, and, although on the School Grounds, they are far enough away to afford some privacy. It’s almost like having our own small, sleepy village, tucked away on our own.”

As Nell said this there was a huge burst of laughter from sundry of the other inhabitants of the cottage, they looked across to see that their guests had summarily divided themselves into teams and were having a pillow fight using cushions from the chairs and sofa.

“Actually I think I’d describe it as a disaster waiting to happen, at the moment Nell!” Hilda remarked drily, she turned to address the rest of the people, “Ladies and gentlemen,” her voice stopped everyone in their tracks, “anyone throwing a cushion will be sent to bed to contemplate their sins.”

There was silence, interrupted by a number of cushions hastily being replaced, into the silence Robbie’s clear voice could be heard, “I tole you Uncle Jem, that’s cos you was a naughty boy!”

 

---

#177:  Author: catherine, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 11:29 am

---

*giggles*


I love Robbie! He's ever so cute!


Thanks Lesley!

 

---

#178:  Author: Rachel,  Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 11:32 am

---

Beginning to wonder who is going to be first to strangle Robbie! He is ever so cute, but has a terrible habit of dropping the grown ups in it!

Many thanks Lesley, any more?

 

---

#179:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 11:55 am

---

Loved Hilda's last, dry comment...

Pleased that Jack has lost his arrogance and can undertake all the hard work and lowliness involved.

And hurrah for Rosalind.

Thanks, Lesley.

 

---

#180:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 12:59 pm

---

Robbie hits the mark right on the head each time doesn't he!

 

---

#181:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 2:35 pm

---

Am very impressed with Jack's decision, good for him!

As for Robbie... *want's one*

 

---

#182:  Author: Josie, Location: London Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 3:35 pm

---

Good for Jack, and great news about Rosalind and Geoff!

Thanks Lesley.

 

---

#183:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 3:45 pm

---

Im very happy for Rosalind and Geoff Thanks Lesley

 

---

#184:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 4:34 pm

---

Loved the three boys playing together

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

---

#185:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 8:46 pm

---

Another Lovely post Lesley!


Robbie is such a cutie!

 

---

#186:  Author: BethC, Location: Worcester, UK Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 8:56 pm

---

Thanks, Lesley!

 

---

#187:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 11:21 pm

---

Loved the interactions here - especially Jem and Jack "corrupting" Robbie!! And then playing with his Lego!

Good to see Jack returning to medicine, but as a more tolerant and humble man... and if I recall correctly, it started with a kick didn't it?

 

---

#188:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sat Sep 24, 2005 6:10 am

---

Little post for now - all that I've written. Out for rest of day, unlikely to get any more of this until tomorrow.

That evening, rather late, most of the guests had departed, leaving just Cherry, Robbie and the girls. Robbie had been taken up to bed some time earlier and, for once, had settled quickly. With the weather outside still wet the six had waved goodbye to the others before thankfully withdrawing back into the cottage. They were not long to bed themselves, Cherry sharing the spare bedroom with Robbie, while the other three camped in the living room with sleeping bags.

The following morning saw Hilda Annersley up first; she had a quick shower and got dressed before making her way downstairs. As she passed the third bedroom she heard noise from within and quietly opened the door. Inside, sat up on his camp bed, Robbie Elliott was intently playing with some small figures from his toy village - a Christmas present from the three downstairs - Hilda could hear him talking to the figures, telling them what they should do. At the sound of the door opening he looked up and his face relaxed into a big grin, about to call out, he quietened when Hilda put her finger to her lips and instead he got out of bed and ran over to throw his arms round her.

“Mornin’ Grandma, I stayed in bed, didn’t I?”

“Yes you did, you’re a good boy,” Hilda bent to kiss the upturned face, “now, pick up your slippers and we’ll go downstairs.” At the noise Cherry had awoken but, on seeing that her son was with Hilda, had smiled fuzzily and gone back to sleep

When the others of the inhabitants of the cottage awoke they all gravitated to the kitchen, there they found Hilda and Robbie. Hilda was sat in one of the chairs, Robbie on her lap. She was reading him a story. Robbie, was following the words in the book as Hilda moved her finger along the page. When the story was finished Robbie smiled, and looked up into Hilda’s face,

“Thank you Grandma, can I have ‘nother story please?”

Hilda smiled and looked round, with the exception of Cherry, everyone else had joined them, sitting and listening to the story - one of Aesop’s Fables - with as much concentration as the little boy, “Well I think, perhaps, the time has come to let Mummy know why Grandma Nell took you shopping yesterday morning, don’t you?”

“Oh yes!” Robbie’s face became excited, he scrambled down from Hilda’s lap and ran across to Nell.

As he did, Nell stood up, “Come with me, Robbie,” she said, holding out a hand.

A little later all six of them had gone back upstairs and were standing outside the third bedroom, Hilda opened the door and ushered Robbie inside. Cherry awoke to Robbie climbing on top of her,

“Wake up Mummy, it’s your birthday!”

Cherry opened her eyes, “Robbie, how did you know…” She stopped, seeing the others were all there. “Hilda?”

Hilda smiled, “The School, of course, has your date of birth, Cherry,” she said gently, “It seemed a pity that we couldn’t celebrate.”

 

---

#189:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Sat Sep 24, 2005 9:06 am

---

How lovely! Poor Cherry. I wonder how many years it is since anyone remembered her birthday.

Thank you Lesley

 

---

#190:  Author: Rachel,  Posted: Sat Sep 24, 2005 9:39 am

---

Awwwwwwwwwwwwww bless!

Happy birthday Cherry!

 

---

#191:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Sat Sep 24, 2005 10:52 am

---

How lovely

Thanks Lesley

Hope Cherry has a wonderful day

Liz

 

---

#192:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Sat Sep 24, 2005 11:08 am

---

That famous voice persuading them all to listen to a child's story!!!

Are we doing anything exciting for Cherry's birthday, Lesley?

 

---

#193:  Author: Mia, Location: London Posted: Sat Sep 24, 2005 12:32 pm

---

Awww Robbie is so gorgeous!

Happy Birthday to Cherry

Thanks Lesley

 

---

#194:  Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK Posted: Sat Sep 24, 2005 5:14 pm

---

I'm sure that must be a violation of the Data Protection Act not to mention Shocking Abuse of Hilda's position, but Happy Birthday, Cherry!

 

---

#195:  Author: Liane, Location: Manchester England Posted: Sat Sep 24, 2005 9:31 pm

---

Thank you Lesley!

Happy Birthday Cherry!

 

---

#196:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries Posted: Sat Sep 24, 2005 9:43 pm

---

awwww thanks Lesley.

It's only right and proper that Robbie should be able to celebrate his mother's birthday.

 

---

#197:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Sat Sep 24, 2005 10:12 pm

---

Just caught up since Wednesday!

Too much there to comment on it all, but I'm glad Hilda is getting Cherry to talk to the girls, I loved the cushion fight and Robbie's comment - and hooray for celebrating Cherry's birthday!

Thankyou Lesley!

 

---

#198:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US Posted: Sun Sep 25, 2005 5:12 am

---

Happy Birthday!

*curious as to Robbie's taste in presents*

 

---

#199:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Sun Sep 25, 2005 10:00 am

---

Happy Birthday Cherry - with lots of hugs!

 

---

#200:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Sun Sep 25, 2005 5:39 pm

---

Awwwwww!
Thank you Lesley!!!
How lovely of them!

 

---

#201:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster Posted: Sun Sep 25, 2005 5:50 pm

---

Robbie is too cute! Nice to hear a bit more about the changes from the 'old world' again. Thanks Lesley.

 

---

#202:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sun Sep 25, 2005 7:36 pm

---

“Happy Birthday Mummy!” Robbie hugged his mother and kissed her, “I didn’t tell the secret, Grandma and me went to the shops.”

Cherry sat up, her arms around the little boy, “You did? What did you get?”

Robbie scrambled down and ran across to where Nell was holding a carrier bag; he rummaged inside before emerging holding a brightly wrapped parcel and a large envelope. He handed them across very excitedly, “Open that, Mummy, open that,” Robbie pointed to the envelope.

Cherry opened the envelope, inside was a large card, home made, it had a picture on the front, obviously drawn by Robbie himself, he climbed up onto the bed and pointed at the picture,

“That’s our house, Mummy,” it actually looked remarkably like Hilda and Nell’s cottage, and this is me and you,” Cherry looked at two stick figures, one, dressed in shorts and t-shirt, had yellow hair, while the bigger figure had red hair. The figures had obviously been drawn by someone else, then Robbie had coloured them.

“What about these figures?” Cherry pointed to two other stick figures, she wasn’t able to quite work out what they were doing, Robbie looked,

“That’s Grandma Hilda, she fallen on the floor, off my scooter,” he said.

Near the door Nell bit her lip and tried not to look across at the Head, she could see the three girls doing the same.

“And this one?”

That’s Grandma Nell, she’s got a water pistol and is shooting Grandma Hilda.”

At these words Hilda looked across at her partner, Nell shrugged, her hands wide as a way of declaring innocence. The declaration was, perhaps, spoilt by a grin flickering onto her face.

“And who are these?” Cherry pointed to three other little figures,

“That’s Louise and Carol an’ Alison.” Robbie said. “Open it Mummy,”

Cherry did, inside was a short message, “Do you know what this says, Robbie?” Cherry asked, a slight catch in her voice,

Robbie nodded, “Yes Mummy, Miz Phipps told me, ‘To Mummy, Happy Birthday, Love Robbie,’ She drew it Mummy ‘cos I couldn’t. But I did draw all these kisses for you.” He pointed to all the X’s scattered all over the page.

Cherry looked at the card for a few more seconds then gathered Robbie into a big hug, “That is the best birthday card I have ever had,” she said, kissing Robbie on both cheeks, “You are so clever, Robbie, thank you darling.”

Robbie allowed himself to be cuddled for a short time, then his excitement overtook him, “Look in the present, Mummy, can I open it?”

“Open my present?” Cherry smiled, “Oh alright then, you can help.”

Between the two of them they unwrapped the parcel, it was flat, about eight inches by six inches. After finally managing to open it Cherry looked down at the gift revealed. It was a photograph of Robbie, smart in his school uniform. The photo had obviously been taken at a professional studio and was of excellent quality, Robbie was smiling at the camera.

“D’you like it, Mummy? It’s a picsure of me.”

“Yes darling, I can see that,” Cherry seemed to be having problems seeing, and had to rub her eyes a few time, “It’s wonderful! It’s just what I wanted.” She looked across enquiringly toward Hilda,

“Last weekend, while you were keeping my ankle and me company on Saturday afternoon,” Hilda began, “Nell took Robbie to the cinema.”

Nell continued, “Before we went there we stopped off at the photographers - he promised it would be ready in a week so we could collect it yesterday.”

“Thank you, both of you,” Cherry said, “it’s just what I wanted.”

“Our pleasure,” Hilda said smiling.

Nell continued, “Yes, now hurry up and get up, Cherry, there’s more downstairs.”

Quickly Cherry got up and, carrying Robbie, her card and present, she followed the others downstairs. On the table were a number of cards and Cherry sat to open them, or more precisely, wait until Robbie had opened them. As well as cards from those present there were any number from others in the School, including a number from Cherry’s own workmates as well as others of the Staff. There were even two cards from Miss Shaw and Mrs Francis.

Once these were all opened though, came more surprises, Alison dragged Cherry into the living room and sat her on the sofa, “Cherry, you’ve started coming surfing with us a few times, we thought you’d need these,” she pointed to where Louise and Carol were dragging out two rather large parcels.

Again, with Robbie’s very enthusiastic help, Cherry unwrapped the parcels, the first was a wet suit, the second, unsurprisingly, considering its shape, was a surf board. Cherry looked over, unable, at first, to say anything, then, “You sho…”

“Yes we should,” Louise said firmly, “We want you to continue to join us, you won’t be able to if you’ve not got the right equipment.”

“Just say ‘thanks’ and nothing else!” ordered Carol.

Cherry swallowed, “Thanks and nothing else,” she said grinning.

A short time later Hilda touched Cherry’s arm, “Luckily it has stopped raining,” she said, “there is one other gift, follow me.”

The girls and Robbie followed Hilda and Nell out of the front door and along to the garage. Nell opened the garage and walked inside, a short time later there was the sound of a car engine and then Nell reversed a car out of the garage in front of Cherry. The car was not the one owned by either of the two women but another car entirely. Fairly small, about three years old, it was a bright red colour and gleamed. Nell got out and walked over to Cherry, pressed the key into her hand.

“You, you can’t mean…” Cherry began.

Hilda smiled, “We’re rather isolated here, Cherry,” she said, “and both Nell and I felt that you would like to have your own means of transport, rather than relying on others. Now the car is no Rolls Royce, but it will be more than suitable for Robbie and yourself.”

Cherry swallowed, “I-I can’t drive.”

“Already sorted some lessons for you, Cherry,” this from Nell, “and if you need to practice just let us know.”

Cherry walked over to the car, running her hand down the sleek paintwork, Robbie also walked over, “Is this our car, Mummy?”

Cherry nodded, “Yes darling, yes it is. It’s from Grandma Hilda and Grandma Nell.” She turned to face the two, tried a number of times to say something, to put into words the gratitude they could see in her eyes, but didn’t seem able to manage it. Instead she burst into happy tears on Hilda’s shoulder.

Last edited by Lesley on Mon Sep 26, 2005 7:12 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

---

#203:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Sun Sep 25, 2005 7:43 pm

---

What a wonderful birthday they all made it for her - lovely, Lesley.

How good Nell and Hilda are to her, treating her as the daughter neither of them ever had.

And of course I laughed out loud at those comments about the shenanigans that the Head and her Deputy get up to, despite their exalted positions.

 

---

#204:  Author: Nicola, Location: Derbyshire Posted: Sun Sep 25, 2005 7:48 pm

---

Hard to disguise a surf board...

Good to see Cherry getting spoilt on her birthday. Thanks, Lesley.

Why do the words 'calm before the storm' spring to mind here? Whenever things are going nice and smoothly in RCS, I start to feel nervous.

 

---

#205:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Sun Sep 25, 2005 8:05 pm

---

Thanks Lesley. I love the calm normality with which all RCS drabbles start. And the fact that they never stay that way for very long! Already you have people getting nervous!!!

Last edited by Pat on Sun Sep 25, 2005 9:15 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

---

#206:  Author: Mia, Location: London Posted: Sun Sep 25, 2005 8:06 pm

---

*Joins the nervous gang*

Thanks Lesley, I loved seeing Cherry get spoilt too and Robbie is so gorgeous !

 

---

#207:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Sun Sep 25, 2005 8:24 pm

---

*refuses to join the nervous gang - what will be will be!*

I love the water pistol!

And I had tears in my eyes at all the birthday presents.

Thankyou Lesley.

 

---

#208:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Sun Sep 25, 2005 8:58 pm

---

What a lovely idea Lesley. So good of them to arrange just the right presents and surprises, and how wonderful for Cherry and Robbie.

 

---

#209:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries Posted: Sun Sep 25, 2005 9:11 pm

---

Oh Lesley that was so beautiful. It must have been made all the more special by the fact that no-one would have remembered her birthday for so long.

Thank you

 

---

#210:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Sun Sep 25, 2005 10:11 pm

---

Wow! what a wonderful set of presents - but even more valuable to Cherry I'm sure is the love with which they were given.

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

---

#211:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW Posted: Mon Sep 26, 2005 3:15 am

---

Wish I had rich friends! Excellent and caring gifts. Surely something bad is going to happen soon.

 

---

#212:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Mon Sep 26, 2005 7:34 am

---

What a lovely birthday. I do like the way the prefects include Cherry in things like surfing as well.

Thank you Lesley.

*refuses to spoil the enjoyment of the birthday by wibbling about the future*

 

---

#213:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline Posted: Mon Sep 26, 2005 7:37 am

---

I'm glad that Cherry had such a good birthday. Thanks Lesley

 

---

#214:  Author: Robin, Location: London Posted: Mon Sep 26, 2005 9:12 am

---

what lovely generous people - no wonder Cherry is a bit overwhelmed!

Thanks Lesley

 

---

#215:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Mon Sep 26, 2005 12:13 pm

---

What a lovely birthday - especially the photograph of Robbie.

 

---

#216:  Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull Posted: Mon Sep 26, 2005 12:21 pm

---

That's a wonderful Birthday surprise they've arranged for Cherry. No wonder she was overwhelmed.

Thanks for the update Lesley.

JackieJ

 

---

#217:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Mon Sep 26, 2005 1:03 pm

---

That was wonderful Lesley!!!

Hilda and Nell are just lovely, and I'm so glad Cherry has found people who care about her!

 

---

#218:  Author: Josie, Location: London Posted: Mon Sep 26, 2005 2:48 pm

---

Awww - Happy Birthday Cherry!


Thanks Lesley

 

---

#219:  Author: pim, Location: Helmel Hampster Posted: Mon Sep 26, 2005 5:27 pm

---

Awwwww, glad Cherry had such a lovely birthday. Thank you Lesley

 

---

#220:  Author: Miriam, Location: Jerusalem, Israel Posted: Mon Sep 26, 2005 8:40 pm

---

I'm glad the issue of jelousy among the other domestic staff was dealt with last term, because I could see real cause for something coming up following a celebration like this - especially with Cherry's recent appointment as guest lecturer.

Deciding to stay firmly in the moment, and not look at the future. Thank you - for now.

 

---

#221:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea Posted: Mon Sep 26, 2005 10:56 pm

---

Whoop, I was right!

Think Cherry is very lucky lady to have such lovely friends - thank you for giving them to her Lesley!

 

---

#222:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Tue Sep 27, 2005 10:08 pm

---

The rest of the Sunday was spent at Hilda and Nell’s cottage; as Ruth Derwent was covering for the weekend it would have been possible to venture off-site, however although it had eased considerably, Hilda’s ankle still made walking long distances painful. Being a Sunday, both of the older women attended morning service; Louise joining the Head while Carol, Cherry and Robbie went with Nell. Alison stayed at the cottage and prepared lunch for all of them. The remainder of the day was spent playing games with Robbie (although secretly everyone enjoyed the games too), watching videos and chatting. Once she had recovered Cherry was able, that afternoon, to detail exactly why she felt so overwhelmed, the last time she had properly celebrated her birthday was five years previously, at age 15.

The next week at the Real Chalet School started well; Madge Russell visited the Head on Monday morning to discuss the possibility of making the cottages on School Grounds more of a community, opening up ownership to more. Miss Annersley approved of this, more than anything both she and Nell Wilson looked upon the Real Chalet School as Home, and also looked upon the people here as family. She felt perhaps that Madge Russell didn’t see it quite as that, possibly because she had, for so long, had a home away from the school. Probably Joey Maynard understood - she had never, until the move to the real world, managed to fully cut the cord binding her to the school. After some discussion Madge agreed with Hilda’s request and passed the responsibility over to the Head. Of the ten cottages that had originally been built only three were currently occupied, Hilda and Nell, Nancy and Kathie, and the Coates’. The other seven could now be offered to any within the Staff as deemed fit by Miss Annersley.

Later that morning was the first meeting of the Senior Management Team with its two new members. As the Head was about to leave to walk up to the meeting room on the second floor there was a quick knock on the door.

“Glad I caught you, Hilda,” it was the Deputy Head, “Nancy Chester told me to remind you to use the lift, not walk up the stairs.”

“I hadn’t forgotten, Nell,” Miss Annersley replied, “I expected you here some minutes ago, what kept you?”

“The Lower Thirds, Lower III a to be exact, I had a Chemistry lesson with them.”

“Mischief?” The pair were slowly walking toward the lift.

Nell Wilson shook her head, “No, not mischief, just over exuberance, don’t know what Ruth and the others did to them over the weekend but they are chock-full of energy. Made me feel very old.”

“Well if that’s how you are feeling, Nell, then there’s no hope for the rest of us!”

…

The week continued calmly, well, as calmly as possible considering it was the Real Chalet School. More field trips, combining Geography and Earth Sciences were arranged for the Fourth Forms, again a great success and the School began training hard for the Athletics Meeting later that term.

In the State Prison the routines continued, day following day and week following week with monotonous regularity, on Wednesday there was a new influx of prisoners into the State Prison; Miss Shaw always made a point of seeing each of the inmates when they first arrived, being the first to introduce them to their new home. On many occasions she had been able to spot trouble-makers and firebrands, as well as see when certain inmates might make useful partnerships with others already in the prison. On this occasion, however, the Senior Prison Officer was unable to see that anyone in the prison would benefit from the introduction of this woman. She was trouble.

Miss Shaw read down the information in the file from the court. The woman had been convicted of five counts of burglary, one with an additional count of grievous bodily harm. She had been disturbed and retaliated by attacking the home owner, a man in his fifties, with a claw hammer. Luckily the noise of the attack had disturbed the man’s two teenage sons and they had managed to subdue her. She had been sentenced to eight years.

“My name is Miss Shaw, I am the Senior Prison Officer. You will address me as Miss Shaw, do you understand?”

“I understand, Miss Shaw.”

“Good, now your sentence is eight years, you have been issued with prison uniform and you will be expected to wear it from now on. You will be assigned a job tomorrow, if the job is not to your liking it is up to you to prove yourself worthy of a move.”

“Yes Miss Shaw.”

“I see this is the first time you have been in prison in this country, but you have served time elsewhere?”

“Yes, Miss Shaw, I served three years in Belmarsh Prison for robbery.”

“Ah, I wondered about the accent,” Miss Shaw smiled slightly, comparing this prisoner with the last Englishwoman she had processed, she looked back at the woman standing in front of her, “You have eight years to serve, Mason, they can be as easy or as hard as you wish. Your choice.”

“Yes Miss Shaw.”

“As a newly sentenced prisoner, Mason, you will spend the next twenty-four hours in isolation, after that a cell will be assigned. Have you any questions?”

“No Miss Shaw.”

“Take her down to the isolation cells, Mr Spencer.”

 

---

#223:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries Posted: Tue Sep 27, 2005 10:25 pm

---

Thanks Lesley

Looks like Mason could be an interesting addition to the prison

 

---

#224:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Tue Sep 27, 2005 11:44 pm

---

Hmmmm wonder if the name Mason is ringing the right bell or if it's a false alarm.

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

---

#225:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 1:54 am

---

ooohhh *brain going slightly crackers* I hope Lesley isn't writing the story that is happening in my head.

Thanks Lesley!

 

---

#226:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 2:40 am

---

Well, I'm assuming Mason isn't a certain CBBer, as she was providing legal help for the RCS not too long ago.

What next?

 

---

#227:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 7:55 am

---

Lesley wrote:

Nell Wilson shook her head, “No, not mischief, just over exuberance, don’t know what Ruth and the others did to them over the weekend but they are chock-full of energy. Made me feel very old.” "Well if that's how you are feeling, Nell, then there is no hope for the rest of us!"

Nell and her indefatigable zest for life! Lovely, Lesley.

That prison scene was far too calm.

 

---

#228:  Author: Katarzyna, Location: North West England Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 8:19 am

---

Kathy_S wrote:

Well, I'm assuming Mason isn't a certain CBBer, as she was providing legal help for the RCS not too long ago. What next?

I assume it's not me! I hope it isn't!

And I've never spent 3 years in Belmarsh (I have been to prison but only as a legal adviser never an inmate!)

*ponders about my relatives!*

 

---

#229:  Author: Robin, Location: London Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 9:11 am

---

or another CS girl spat out into the real world?
Hmmm *off to think*

thanks Lesley

 

---

#230:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 10:29 am

---

Thanks Lesley.

I think I will opt out of the guessing. I've never yet been right!

 

---

#231:  Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 11:55 am

---

patmac wrote:

Thanks Lesley. I think I will opt out of the guessing. I've never yet been right!

I'll echo Pat, I've never been right yet either...

Mason... can't think of any... ah well *shrug*

Thanks for this Lesley.

 

---

#232:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 11:59 am

---

Hmm, thank you Lesley!

 

---

#233:  Author: Katarzyna, Location: North West England Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 12:24 pm

---

Humm, not being a tad concerned and keeping returning to check what's happening honest....

The only Mason CS wise I can think of is Sue Mason (Rikki Fry's friend?) the only CBB Mason I am sure is me!

* concerned *

 

---

#234:  Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 1:51 pm

---

Wasn't Leila Elstob's cousin called Mason as well? Or was she Meadowes?

 

---

#235:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 3:22 pm

---

Twas Meadows I think Alex....

*Wonders what Kate has done this time*

 

---

#236:  Author: Katarzyna, Location: North West England Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 4:11 pm

---

Kat wrote:

*Wonders what Kate has done this time*

Hey! I've not done anything any time! thank you very much Ms Wilkie!

 

---

#237:  Author: Josie, Location: London Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 5:07 pm

---

JackieJ wrote:

patmac wrote: Thanks Lesley. I think I will opt out of the guessing. I've never yet been right! I'll echo Pat, I've never been right yet either...

Neither have I!

Thanks Lesley.

 

---

#238:  Author: Rachel,  Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 5:12 pm

---

I knew Kate Mason had a dodgy side to her character.

Only other Mason I can think of at present is Rebecca Mason from the Trebizon books, but I don't *think* Lesley is doing a crossover. Is she?

 

---

#239:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 7:22 pm

---

During the routine weekly Department Heads’ meeting, a number of issues had been satisfactorily resolved. Miss Wilson was reporting on the current problem with appointing a second Chemistry Mistress.

“Fact is,” she said bluntly, “we’ve had any number of applicants, but none of them were suitable. We had a number of ex chalet school people apply – ex pupils for the most part, but none had the knowledge base or even, in some cases, appeared willing to study for it. I’d have accepted someone partway through a degree who was willing to complete their studies. But the vast majority seemed to think we owed them a job because of who we were.”

“What about the CBB?” Lisa Townsend, History Head, posed the question.

Miss Wilson turned to face Lisa, “Much the same,” she replied, “no one had the qualifications I wanted or were interested enough to study for them.” She turned to Miss Annersley and continued, “Hilda, the situation at the moment is manageable, but not for much longer. I really feel you may have to relax your ruling.”

The Head looked slightly concerned, “You feel that the Chemistry work will increase?”

“Definitely. We’re not up to capacity yet, when we are we’ll have three classes for each year and all Middles and Seniors will be having Chemistry lessons. Even without the Deputy Headship I’m going to need help. I’m sure I can’t be the only one?” She looked round at the Department Heads, a number of them nodded in return.

Nancy spoke, “I’m going to need another Maths Mistress, probably two. I haven’t replaced Janet McRae yet and she left almost a year ago! And as Nell says, the numbers are set to rise. I know you’ve put a cap on numbers, but we haven’t reached that yet.”

Rosalind Moore spoke, “I was going to put in a request for more Staff, Hilda,” she said, “Kathie and I are barely coping now, once I go off on maternity leave I don’t know what will happen. I’d like someone in place early so they can get used to working with Kathie and she can get used to them.”

The Head looked round, seeing that a number of the others were agreeing, “Very well then, I will think about it,” she said quickly, “I must admit I had hoped we could continue to have only ex chalet school or CBB Staff, but we must ensure that we give a good service to our pupils. Perhaps it is time to consider relaxing the rules so that we may appoint anyone suitably qualified.”

“It’s not been a problem in other fields, Hilda,” Nell put in, “After all, John Coates is a native and knew nothing of ‘our past’.”

“True, but I think, if we are to employ other Staff we will not automatically tell them of our origins - we want to retain these Staff, after all.”

There were a number of grins round the table, Miss Annersley, as the Chair for the meeting, looked down at the Agenda. “Is there Any Other Business? Nell you’ve mentioned your concern, anyone else?”

There was silence for a time, then she spoke again, “Well I have one item, I’ve had a request for a new pupil, age eleven, to start in the near future. The child has, until now, been attending a special needs school but the mother informs me that both the class teacher and the child’s educational psychologist feel that she is capable of achieving more than would be possible within the special needs framework.”

“Why has she been attending special needs?” Ruth Derwent asked.

Miss Annersley referred to a piece of paper, “She has something called ADHD and Aspergers Syndrome, I managed to download some information about both conditions.” She handed round some sheets of paper. There was silence for a while as the others all read through the details.

“Is she very badly affected?”

“Not too badly, but her mother does say that, on occasion, there can be aggressive outbursts.” The Head paused for a time then added, “She is also somewhat behind her age group with regard to general education, in particular in Mathematics.”

“Would you want her placed with her age group or with younger children?” This from Nell Wilson.

“Her own age group, if possible,” Hilda Annersley replied, “it would not help her own development to be with younger children. It would mean extra coaching, I’m prepared to take on any coaching in English, would there be any problem with the rest of you?”

The others all shook their heads, Nancy Wilmot grinned, “I can take her on in Maths, I don’t think I’ll have problems with any violent behaviour!”

“What of help for her?” Lisa asked, “I’m sure she should be entitled to some classroom help.”

“Yes, I spoke to Lulie Walker, she said that a helper would be available. She also said that the more regimented atmosphere of a boarding school, with set routines for everything from bedtime to meals to homework, will be very helpful. She said she was happy to talk to the Staff about what we should expect.”

“Would she be a boarder then?” This from Nell.

“Yes, a weekly boarder, going home for the weekends,” Miss Annersley confirmed, she looked round the meeting room, “Does anyone have any objections about this?”

There was silence, then Rosalind Moore spoke, “I don’t think so, Hilda, it sounds as though we might be able to help the child.” Everyone else nodded in agreement.

“Very well then, I shall write to her mother this afternoon. Rebecca Macdonald can start here at the beginning of the new school year, January 2006.”

 

---

#240:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 8:18 pm

---

Wow! Can you imagine an ordinary 2005 teacher going to a new school and then discovering the staff claimed they had been transported through a reality/time warp from a fictional world?

It looks like interesting times ahead.

Thanks Lesley.

 

---

#241:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 8:22 pm

---

Some hefty considerations there, both with new staff and with the new child. I wonder which of them is going to pose more of a problem?

Thanks, Lesley

Last edited by MaryR on Wed Sep 28, 2005 8:23 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

---

#242:  Author: Josie, Location: London Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 8:23 pm

---

patmac wrote:

Wow! Can you imagine an ordinary 2005 teacher going to a new school and then discovering the staff claimed they had been transported through a reality/time warp from a fictional world?

So does this mean the secret will be out?!

Thank Lesley. Glad they're going to help the girl out.

 

---

#243:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 8:25 pm

---

Thank you Lesley!

*looking forward to seeing what the new staff make of the RCS!*

 

---

#244:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 8:54 pm

---

Looking foward to the new pupil arriving!!!

 

---

#245:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 9:21 pm

---

Reb at the CS is going to be fun! Look forward to next term with interest.

Mason....hmmm, can't think of anyone with that surname, but it could be a married name of course. Interestimg criminal record for a CS girl, if it is, of course.

 

---

#246:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 9:45 pm

---

Looking very interesting, Good luck to the RSC with all that being thrown at it already. *sits down and awaits developments*

Thanks Lesley

 

---

#247:  Author: Nicola, Location: Derbyshire Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 10:30 pm

---

And will we get to see the new pupil's mother?

Thanks, Lesley.

PS what do I have to do to send my kids to RCS? Robbie could do with some little friends, I reckon.

 

---

#248:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 11:00 pm

---

Goodness, this is intriguing. Bound to happen eventually of course that they have to appoint teaching staff from neither previous source. And I wonder how it would strike a real outsider?

Thanks Lesley.

 

---

#249:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Wed Sep 28, 2005 11:02 pm

---

Looking forward to seeing how they get on with appointing new staff and with the new pupil.

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

---

#250:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! Posted: Thu Sep 29, 2005 1:31 am

---

Interesting with Rebecca at the CS- be interested to see where it goes!!!

 

---

#251:  Author: Katarzyna, Location: North West England Posted: Thu Sep 29, 2005 8:25 am

---

Da*n, I knew I should have kept up the Chemistry rather than giving up after my HND and changing to Law!

Going to be interesting to see Reb at RCS - wonder how they will cope with her!

Still concerned about surname connection!!

 

---

#252:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Thu Sep 29, 2005 8:41 am

---

Going to be very interesting and I look forward to seeing what happens over the staffing issue!

THank you Lesley.

 

---

#253:  Author: Rachel,  Posted: Thu Sep 29, 2005 8:48 am

---

WOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

I got rid...I mean, I got my daughter into an excellent school!

Roll on January 2006!!!

 

---

#254:  Author: Robin, Location: London Posted: Thu Sep 29, 2005 9:17 am

---

at Rachel

Thanks Lesley, looking forward to seeing how the new staff handle it!

 

---

#255:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Thu Sep 29, 2005 10:29 am

---

Everything is running far too smoothly for RCS. I wonder what Lesley has up her sleeve for us?

 

---

#256:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Thu Sep 29, 2005 11:15 am

---

Battle, murder and sudden death as usual, Jennie. Not necesarily in that order.

 

---

#257:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Thu Sep 29, 2005 1:53 pm

---

Well, I guess I was expecting that, Pat, it's just the anticipation!

 

---

#258:  Author: Rachel,  Posted: Thu Sep 29, 2005 2:13 pm

---

In the interests of artistic integrity, I am proposing to send my daughter to live with Lesley until RCS as a series is complete. This way she can have first hand knowledge of Rebecca's personality.

All those who agree with me? Wave your hands in the air!

\o/

 

---

#259:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Thu Sep 29, 2005 2:21 pm

---

\o/

Wonderful idea - in the interests of artistic integrity of course!

 

---

#260:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Thu Sep 29, 2005 4:21 pm

---

Rachel wrote:

In the interests of artistic integrity, I am proposing to send my daughter to live with Lesley until RCS as a series is complete. This way she can have first hand knowledge of Rebecca's personality. All those who agree with me? Wave your hands in the air! \o/

I'm currently giggling wildly and wishing I could see Lesley's face when she reads this suggestion!!!!

 

---

#261:  Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK Posted: Thu Sep 29, 2005 5:41 pm

---

Shame I'm doing a full time course really. I could teach a bit of Chemistry in my spare time if I had any!

 

---

#262:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Thu Sep 29, 2005 7:57 pm

---

Rachel wrote:

In the interests of artistic integrity, I am proposing to send my daughter to live with Lesley until RCS as a series is complete. This way she can have first hand knowledge of Rebecca's personality. All those who agree with me? Wave your hands in the air! \o/

Now Rachel, that's a tad ungrateful isn't it? I mean I did have a word with Hilda after you'd sent your begging letter - I mean application letter to me. I can always speak to Hilda again you know...

 

---

#263:  Author: Rachel,  Posted: Thu Sep 29, 2005 8:03 pm

---

Lesley wrote:

I did have a word with Hilda after you'd sent your begging letter - I mean application letter to me.

I thought i was a very polite letter myself!

And at least I had the decency towards my child to inform Hilda of her character, rather than asking for her to be placed and then writing to Joey about her problems!

 

---

#264:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! Posted: Thu Sep 29, 2005 8:40 pm

---

Rachel wrote:

I had the decency towards my child to inform Hilda of her character, rather than asking for her to be placed and then writing to Joey about her problems!

You mean Joey can't erupt into a staff meeting brandishing a letter, solving the entire school's problems in one go!???!

 

---

#265:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Thu Sep 29, 2005 10:26 pm

---

Rachel wrote:

Lesley wrote: I did have a word with Hilda after you'd sent your begging letter - I mean application letter to me. I thought i was a very polite letter myself! And at least I had the decency towards my child to inform Hilda of her character, rather than asking for her to be placed and then writing to Joey about her problems!

*wonders if there's any chance we might be allowed to SEE Rachel's 'application' letter.........*

 

---

#266:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Fri Sep 30, 2005 10:04 pm

---

For information - I will not be detailing Rebecca's time at the RCS - I feel that would be a little unfair on the girl.

Later that day saw Cherry Elliott knocking on the Head’s Study door,

“Hilda have you got a minute?”

“Cherry,” Hilda smiled, “Of course, come in. What can I do for you?”

Cherry sat in the chair indicated, she smiled across at the Head, “I’ve thought about the possibility of talking to the girls about sex education,” she began, “I’ll do it.”

Miss Annersley’s smiled grew broader, “Thank you Cherry, I really am grateful. I’m sure you will be able to help the girls.”

“Well I’ll try,” Cherry replied, “I mean, I don’t want any of them to end up like I did. Not that I’d want to be without Robbie,” she added hastily, “just that I could have done with it happening at a later time. I made such a mess of my life, after all.”

The Head smiled, “I think you’ll find there are any number of people on-site who feel that you’ve made a great success of your life, Cherry, not just because of Robbie, but because of your own nature.”

Cherry blushed slightly, she swallowed then spoke again, “Who should I talk to about the lectures?” she asked, “I suppose you’ve got one of the teachers in charge?”

Hilda nodded, “Yes, it comes under the Biology remit, therefore Davida Armitage is the person you need to speak to. I suggest that you and she meet up first, then, once you’ve decided on content speak to Rosalie Dene - the Office Manager - about timetabling your talks.”

Cherry nodded and rose, intending to leave the Study, Hilda’s voice stopped her,

“Oh and for the lectures you will be paid guest lecturers’ rate, Cherry, that’s only fair. Speak to Mollie Mackenzie about the actual amount.”

Cherry stood still for a moment, thinking, then firmly shook her head, “No Hilda,” she said.

Miss Annersley looked across, surprised.

Cherry swallowed a little nervously then continued, “You’ve done so much for me, Hilda, so much for Robbie too. I don’t want any money for this, I didn’t say I’d do it because I’d get more money.”

“I know that Cherry,” Hilda’s voice was soft, “but you are entitled to the money.”

“No,” Cherry smiled slightly, “Robbie and me, we’ve got all we could ever want, far more than I ever dreamed we’d have. Let me do this, talk to your girls, it won’t repay you all I owe, but it’ll be a start.”

The Head rose and walked over to stand in front of Cherry, holding her shoulders she spoke softly, “You do not owe me anything, Cherry, having Robbie and you as a part of my family has been one of the most wonderful things that has ever happened to me. I know that Nell feels the same, as do Alison and the others.”

“Even so, Hilda, I’d like to do this.”

“Very well, I will instruct Mollie, would you like, instead, that the money go to a charity?”

Cherry thought for a moment, “I haven’t thought about it before,” she said, “but is there a fund for ex-convicts? To help them when they’ve served their time?”

Hilda nodded, “I’m sure there must be, I’ll make enquiries. A good choice.”

Cherry shrugged, “I’ve got so much, if the money helps others that weren’t as lucky as I’ve been, that’d be good.” She took a deep breath, looked at her watch, “I’ve got to go, Hilda, otherwise I’m never going to finish my Boarding Houses.” She quickly hugged the Head before turning and walking to the door.

 

---

#267:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Fri Sep 30, 2005 11:19 pm

---

Oh - what an excellent decision by Cherry!

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

---

#268:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2005 5:42 am

---

What a wise and adult decision for Cherry to make. And I think she was amply repaid by Hilda's loving words to her.

 

---

#269:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2005 6:33 am

---

Cherry is so straight and honest.

Thank you Lesley.

 

---

#270:  Author: Josie, Location: London Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2005 7:47 am

---

Thanks Lesley. Good for Cherry!

 

---

#271:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2005 8:30 am

---

The Head smiled, “I think you’ll find there are any number of people on-site who feel that you’ve made a great success of your life, Cherry, not just because of Robbie, but because of your own nature

Oh, well done, Hilda. What a beautiful thing to say to reassure.

And well done, Cherry, for being so appreciative of all Hilda and Nell have done for her.

Thanks, Lesley

 

---

#272:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2005 9:45 am

---

Thankyou Lesley.

Good for Cherry - on all counts!

And I agree with Mary that what Hilda said to Cherry was wonderful.

 

---

#273:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2005 5:20 pm

---

Cherry is such a lovely person wanting to help other people that way. I guess she realises that she could have been in that situation if she didn't have Hilda Nell and everyone else.

Thank you, Lesley

 

---

#274:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2005 5:49 pm

---

Thursday night, a little before three am, saw a rude awakening for all on the Real Chalet School site; designed to house some of the School Mistresses, all the ten cottages on site had connections with the School. This included connections via the telephone and via the computer network, it also included the alarm system. Therefore when a firm alarm was tripped the siren was heard everywhere. In the Heads’ cottage the noise of the siren jolted both inhabitants awake. Nell Wilson was up, throwing on clothes, even before she had fully worked out why she was awake. Once fully dressed she opened the door to her bedroom just as the telephone started to ring. As she ran to answer it she was aware that Hilda, not quite as fast but still fully dressed, had reached the top of the stairs and was slowly descending.

“This is Nell Wilson, what’s the problem?”

“Gatehouse here, Ma’am, the fire alarm has been tripped in one of the Middle Boarding Houses, number 5,”

At this point Hilda appeared beside Nell; Nell looked across at her friend, her hand over the phone receiver, “One of the Middle Houses, Hilda,” she said swiftly, “I’ll run across now, shall I? You can join me as soon as possible.”

Hilda nodded, taking the receiver, “Do that Nell, I’ll be there as quickly as I can.”

Nell smiled slightly then left, Hilda could hear the front door slam shut behind her.

Bare minutes later, or so it seemed to the Deputy Head, she turned slightly to see her friend limping across to join her. They were both standing outside Boarding House 5, alongside the Housemistress for the House - Gertrude Rider. All sixty girls were lined up at some distance from the House, the mistresses on duty quickly counting and ensuring all girls were present. Lights outside others of the Boarding Houses showed that the rest of the School had been roused too.”

“Hi Hilda,” Nell smiled, “as far as we can work out it was only the one alarm that was tripped, just thinking about whether the rest of the School could be dismissed?”

The Head nodded, “Yes, do that, also ask the Housemistresses in Houses 4 and 6 to ensure the Common Rooms on the ground floor are opened up, we should get these children in out of this night air. We should be thankful; that it is no longer raining.”

While Miss Rider moved to attend to this Hilda looked across at Nell,

“The Fire Brigade are on their way,” she said softly, “although, from what I see here, it appears to be a false alarm.”

“That’s what it looks like, Hilda,” Nell replied, “someone smoking again?”

Hilda shook her head, “No, the board in the Gatehouse showed it was an alarm that had been smashed, not a smoke alarm. It appears that someone set off an alarm deliberately. I’ll be very interested to hear their explanation as to why they did.”

Before Nell could reply the sound of the large fire appliances was heard, racing along the road; a very short delay at the Gatehouse before they were speeding along toward the location of the alarm. The two women watched in silence as the Fire Brigade Officers prepared their machines ready to fight fire. After a very quick talk with the head, to ascertain that no one was left inside, the Chief Officer directed his men into the building. A short time later he returned to speak to Miss Annersley,

“As you suspected, Miss,” he said quickly, “a false alarm. My men found one of the alarms smashed - by a book he thought - no evidence of any fire or other emergency.” The man sounded annoyed.

“Thank you,” Miss Annersley replied swiftly, “please accept my apologies for dragging you here under false pretences. I assure you, I will find out the identity of the perpetrators.”

The fireman nodded curtly and then turned to order his men back to the appliances, within minutes the three machines had left.

Hilda and Nell looked at each other, “Can understand him being annoyed, Hilda,” Nell said eventually, “they’ve all had to get out of their beds to attend here, and there might have been a real emergency somewhere else.”

Hilda nodded, “As do I, Nell,” she said, she looked at her watch, “It’s almost four, far to late to be making enquiries now,” she turned to Miss Dene standing beside her, “Rosalie, please adjust the bells by one hour, allow everyone a little more sleep in the morning, we’ll see if further time is required at breakfast.”

Rosalie nodded, “I’ll let Karen know too, Hilda,” she said, moving swiftly to do so.

“Nell, can you go to House 4? Get the girls in the Common Room back to their own beds? I’ll do the same for those sheltering in House 6.”

Only a short time later saw all the girls quickly filing back into their own House and into their own beds; both the Head and Deputy Head made the rounds of the six dormitories to say goodnight to the girls and encourage them to quickly get back to sleep. Although there was some giggling and excitement, for the most part the girls settled swiftly. Once they were all settled the Head and Deputy Head walked back down to the entrance with Gertrude Rider.

“Will you be making enquiries in the morning, Hilda?” Gertrude said quietly.

Hilda Annersley shook her head, “No, I believe I know those responsible,” she looked across at both Nell and Gertrude, “Four of the girls were far more excited and giggly than the situation warranted, and none of them were able to look at me directly. Once they are all up tomorrow, Gertrude, ask Andrea Gunter, Sara Cox, Emma Jackson and Janetta Mackenzie to come and see me please."

Last edited by Lesley on Sat Oct 01, 2005 10:21 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

---

#275:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2005 5:55 pm

---

I know Hilda's always on the ball, but how's that for prescience? Has she got a magic ball, Lesley?

(Or perhaps taking lessons from someone called Vivien?? )

I wouldn't like to be in their shoes tomorrow!

Thanks, Lesley

 

---

#276:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2005 6:52 pm

---

Oh dear! Methinks some sparks are going to fly......
(no pun intended)
I'm rather glad I'm not one of those four girls if they WERE responsible for the alarm going off!

 

---

#277:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2005 7:35 pm

---

I know I'm glad. there's always someone who thinks its funny to do that! We get them in college too, but at least that's during the day! Though I suppose it's the modern equivalent of Polly ringing the alarm bell in 'Jo Returns'.

 

---

#278:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2005 8:49 pm

---

I think anyone dealing with 'people' could do with Hilda's uncanny powers of observation.

I do think certain girls are going to wish they had thought twice

 

---

#279:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2005 10:03 pm

---

I am glad I was never a naughty schoolgirl under Hilda!

 

---

#280:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2005 10:22 pm

---

That same night at the prison saw the new prisoner Mason being released from Isolation and taken along to the wing. The Prison Officer unlocked one of the row of cells,

“Alright Mason, inside! Rees, make sure she knows the rules!” The heavy metal door was slammed shut once more and locked.

“Sure Miss Mareck.” The woman already in the cell stood, looked across at the new arrival, “Didn’t think they’d leave me on my own for long,” she remarked, “oh well, it was nice while it lasted. Dump your stuff!”

Mason did just that, looked across at the other woman, “Did the screw say your name was Rees?”

“Yeah, Sara Rees, you?”

“Julie Mason, so what’s this dump like then? Word is you had some trouble couple of months back.”

“Yeah, my roommate got herself killed. A number of us were hurt, no biggie, it’s all settled now. The place isn’t too bad. You been inside before?”

“Few times,” Mason looked round, “Not here in Oz though,”

“England?”

“Yeah, Belmarsh for three years, served the full three ‘an all, b*stards wouldn’t give me any remission, and I did two years in Elmley.”

“And now?”

“Eight bloody years, you?”

“Nine years, manslaughter, done two.” Rees made some coffee, handed across a mug to the other woman, “what did you do then?”

Mason sipped her coffee, “Got me for a string of burglaries, street was a goldmine, all the places had these piddling little alarm systems, made the marks think they were safe, but they were the easiest thing in the world to bypass. The real criminal is the bloke who sold the systems, he should be inside, not me!”

“Ain’t that the truth! So what happened, how’d the pigs finger you?”

Mason shook her head ruefully, “Would you believe I was caught by the owners, I tell you, last time I go on a job without a gun, if I’d been carrying that night I’d have got away scot-free.”

“You not worried about killing?”

Mason shrugged, “So long as it’s not me, what do I care? Wouldn’t be the first time.” She finished her drink and, quickly made up her bed, “Lights out in ten minute?”

“Yeah, can see I’ve not got to tell you much about the rules.”

“Nicks are the same the world over,” Mason looked across, “Who’s the boss then? Might as well go introduce myself tomorrow.”

“Boss? You mean the Governor, Mrs Knight?” Rees grinned.

“You know who I mean, Rees, don’t mess me about, woman like you, I bet your part of her firm aren’t you?”

Rees nodded, “Yes, her lieutenant, and I think she’ll want to meet you, you could be part of her team too.”

“Suits me, I don’t intend to serve my time like the rest of the mice in here. What’s her name?”

“Butcher, I’ll introduce you tom…you OK Mason? You look really sick, suddenly.”

Mason swallowed quickly, took a few deep breaths, “I’m fine, you’re seeing things, this Butcher, her first name Ann?”

“Yeah, you know her?”

“Maybe.”

 

---

#281:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2005 10:29 pm

---

Nice place to finish Lesley! Watch for the squeals!

 

---

#282:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2005 10:31 pm

---

OOOh, so what is the connection between those two?

Very interesting, thank you Lesley.

 

---

#283:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Sat Oct 01, 2005 10:34 pm

---

So how does Julie Mason know Butcher? Very interesting!

Looking forward to seeing Butcher's reaction when the two meet.

Thankyou Lesley.

 

---

#284:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 1:48 am

---

Oh, dear! Especially if Mason's who I'm thinking she might be.

 

---

#285:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 8:04 am

---

What was this I heard once about you not doing cliffs, my dear?

*grr*

Thanks, Lesley.

 

---

#286:  Author: Nicola, Location: Derbyshire Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 9:07 am

---

Oh-oh! My vertigo's beginning to kick in.

And I have no clue who Mason might be or how she knows Butcher. *Thinks hard*. Nope.

Thanks, Lesley.

 

---

#287:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 11:02 am

---

I think I know who this is..no wonder she's suddenly not happy. Her chances of living as long as she intended suddenly don't look so good.

 

---

#288:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 12:09 pm

---

Lesley, you do love to leave us on the clifff-edges, don't you?

 

---

#289:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 1:24 pm

---

interesting, verrrry interesting.....

I'm looking forward to finding out precisely what is going on. Thanks Lesley

 

---

#290:  Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 2:19 pm

---

I can think of one person who might not want to meet Butcher, although I'm not quite sure how it'll all fit together.

Thanks, Lesley.

 

---

#291:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 3:51 pm

---

*starts toasting marshmallows while we wait for Lesley to explain*

 

---

#292:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 7:15 pm

---

The following morning, Friday, started late with everyone filing in to breakfast at 0830hrs, an hour later than normal. This, of course, meant that the timetable for the rest of the day was affected. During Assembly that morning Miss Annersley announced that the first lesson of the day was to be omitted and that the rest of the lessons would be fifteen minutes later than the normal timetable. She silently acknowledged all the annoyed glances from those Mistresses whose own teaching timetables would be disturbed as a consequence, especially those that had double lessons first thing.

On her return to her Study the Head found four Middles waiting for her outside. Her expression stern and unyielding, Miss Annersley ordered the four inside, directed them to stand in front of her desk. She sat in her chair and looked across at the four. Hilda Annersley had countless years of experience in dealing with mischievous Middles, therefore she knew without a doubt that the four standing in front of her were guilty. Of the four, Andrea Gunter, was one of the scholarship girls from Germany, Sara Cox and Emma Jackson were from England and Australia respectively, and Janetta Mackenzie. Hilda paused, looking hard at Janetta, there was something wrong there, something indefinable, Janetta was the daughter of Con Mackenzie, she knew, more than anyone, just how deeply in trouble she was, yet? Hilda shook her head, unable at present to work out what was wrong.

“I wonder if you know why I have asked to see you,” she began blandly.

There was silence for a time, then Sara giggled nervously, “Don’t know, maybe give us a surprise!” The Head stared at her thoughtfully, after a few seconds Sara became even more flushed than before and gazed down at the floor.

“I don’t believe it will be a surprise, Sara,” Hilda said quietly, her voice emotionless, “I asked to see you so that you could explain why you set off the fire alarm last night.”

There was silence for some time, the four girls all suddenly looked anxious, breathing fast, their movements quick and jerky, almost as though they wanted to run away. When it became obvious that they were not going to answer she spoke again, “I’m waiting!” Her tones were sharp and all four girls jumped.

Andrea was the first to reply, however her quick, “Ich verstehe Sie nicht,” was doomed to disappointment. Without even pausing for another breath the Head answered in the same language,

“Wirklich? Ich weiß, daß Sie ausgezeichnetes Englisch sprechen, Andrea. Liegen Sie nicht zu mir.” Miss Annersley’s rebuke caused the German girl to flush redder than before, she swallowed convulsively a number of times then replied.

“I-I didn’t mean to lie…”

“How’d you know it was us?” This from Sara Cox.

“I knew,” Miss Annersley said sternly, “now, explain!”

Janetta replied, staring down at the floor she mumbled, “It was just a laugh, didn’t mean nothing.”

The other three nodded quickly.

“I see, well you have, no doubt, garnered amusement from having the entire School up in the middle of the night, I hope you consider that your ‘fun’ is worth it. You will, of course, apologise to the entire School tomorrow morning at Assembly. However, due to your actions the entire timetable has had to be adjusted, therefore you will also apologise to each Head of Department today, and to the rest of the SMT.”

Miss Annersley paused there for a moment, allowing the four to appreciate what that would mean, the Heads of Department included the two Mistresses with the sharpest tongues in the School, none of the girls were under any illusion as to their fate when apologising to either the Deputy Head or the Head of Geography, and as the SMT were included too then they would have to face Karen too.

“Once you have done that you will all be marched across to the San and spend the rest of the day in bed - yes Emma,” she said quickly, seeing that one of the girls was about to respond indignantly, “I mean bed, if you decide to do something so infantile as set of fire alarms you must expect to be treated as very young children.”

The Head paused here to view the four, there was still something not quite right here, but she could not place it. The girls were upset, but they also still seemed excited, perhaps it was the lack of sleep. She continued, “Finally, you will all miss the Half Term expeditions,” she said grimly, “You were warned at the beginning of term about your behaviour this should not surprise you.” Again the reaction was strange, the girls were upset, but not as much as would have been expected. She shook her head, promising herself that she would speak seriously with their Form and Housemistresses.

“You may go now, girls, Miss Dene will take you round to the classes to apologise to the Department Heads. The girls filed out, all four were obviously upset, they had tears in their dark eyes, but there was still something…

 

---

#293:  Author: Miriam, Location: Jerusalem, Israel Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 7:29 pm

---

So was the fire alarm just a distraction to cover something else that they had planned that evening? Something that was not detected? (Yet.)

THank you.

 

---

#294:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 7:36 pm

---

Hmmmm, almost as if they are planning something else and this is a step towards that? What it could be that would mean staying at half-term I have no idea! Or is it that there is soemhting else going on here. It is all very odd. Hilda and a study scene and not floods of repentant tears. So many ideas floating around my head and all of them probably wrong as usual.

 

---

#295:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 8:01 pm

---

Oh dear!

Why do I get the impression that still waters run very very deep here?

 

---

#296:  Author: Nicola, Location: Derbyshire Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 8:11 pm

---

I'm worrying. Hilda at her most chilling, yet no repentance. Something is seriously amiss.

Thank you, Lesley.

 

---

#297:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 8:30 pm

---

Lesley wrote:

“I wonder if you know why I have asked to see you,” she began blandly. There was silence for a time, then Sara giggled nervously, “Don’t know, maybe give us a surprise!” The Head stared at her thoughtfully, after a few seconds Sara became even more flushed than before and gazed down at the floor. …

And Hilda didn't squash her FLAT?

That whole scene was very intriguing, Lesley. Thank you.

 

---

#298:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 8:34 pm

---

Interesting! Any bets on how long it will take Hilda to find out?

 

---

#299:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 10:02 pm

---

something obvoiusly amiss there - the study should have been awash with tears!

Maybe Hilda's losing her touch.

Thanks Lesley

 

---

#300:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 10:13 pm

---

francesn wrote:

something obvoiusly amiss there - the study should have been awash with tears! Maybe Hilda's losing her touch. Thanks Lesley

That I very much doubt - not in Lesley's hands anyway!

 

---

#301:  Author: Miriam, Location: Jerusalem, Israel Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 11:24 pm

---

Reading this through more carefully, there seems to be a lot about their physical reactions - bright eyes, jerky movements, flushes. Miss annersley would probably be able to spot the effects of alcohol, but it might not occur to her that there could be drugs involved.

I don't know much about the issue, but they could probably provide some sort of mental cusioning effect, so that the 'icy tones' and their punishment would have less effect on them? Setting off the fire alarm could also have seemed tremendously funny under such circumstances.

I'm not completely rejecting my earlier theory of the fire alarm being a distraction while something else happened, but now I'm wondering if 'something else' has already happened, and the fire alarm was a result rather than a cause.

Quote:

“That’s what it looks like, Hilda,” Nell replied, “someone smoking again?”

Maybe Nell needs to rethink what they might have been smoking?

I'm awaiting further developments.

 

---

#302:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Sun Oct 02, 2005 11:34 pm

---

*intrigued*

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

---

#303:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW Posted: Mon Oct 03, 2005 3:15 am

---

Ohhhh. Interesting.



Joining everybody in wondering what is really going on with the four.

 

---

#304:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Mon Oct 03, 2005 4:57 am

---

Hmm, having reread this, I find Miriam's idea very intriguing.

And with regard to Mason, "I gloat! Hear me gloat!...Je vais gloaterai toujours le blessed day!" ( and transformed into a Beetle)

 

---

#305:  Author: Robin, Location: London Posted: Mon Oct 03, 2005 10:03 am

---

hmmm curious on both counts...

hope we get some answers soon!
Thanks Lesley

 

---

#306:  Author: Mia, Location: London Posted: Mon Oct 03, 2005 10:24 am

---

*Also intrigued*

Thanks Lesley!

 

---

#307:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Mon Oct 03, 2005 11:51 am

---

However did I miss this update yesterday?

Because I clicked on the last page of the thread, I caught sight of Miriam's ideas before I read the piece of story - and do wonder if she is right. Surely the girls would have had to be on something, not to be affected by Hilda at her most imposing! Also Sara's outstanding piece of impudence is rather shocking.

Hmmmmmm - lots to think about, as everyone else has already said!

 

---

#308:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Mon Oct 03, 2005 12:01 pm

---

Thank you Lesley. Intrigued.

 

---

#309:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Mon Oct 03, 2005 1:06 pm

---

Hilda hasn't lost her touch, far from it. She knows there's something amiss, and she'll discover what it is.

It must be something that girls of that age would find very exciting, as a scholarship girl wouldn't jeopardise her scholarship for something trivial.

 

---

#310:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Mon Oct 03, 2005 1:58 pm

---

I'm wibbling greatly at all the suggestions which have been made!!!

 

---

#311:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Mon Oct 03, 2005 7:03 pm

---

Stop wibbling, Vikki and start nagging Lesley.

 

---

#312:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Mon Oct 03, 2005 8:43 pm

---

Later that morning, during the morning break, Miss Annersley was able to discuss her concerns with her partner. Miss Wilson had spoken first,

“Well I told the four exactly what I thought of them,” she said, after sitting at the oval table in the Head’s Study, “The four appeared just before Break, I think Rosalie had left me until last to really make a point!”

“And did you?” Miss Annersley asked quickly.

Her friend paused for a moment, “Actually, Hilda, I’m not sure. Oh the girls were upset and my remarks cut into them but…”

“…but you wondered if you were really getting through to them?” Hilda nodded, “That’s exactly how I felt. In a way, hearing that you noticed it too makes me feel a little better…” At her friend’s quizzical look she elaborated, “I wondered if I were losing my touch.”

Nell Wilson gave a snort of laughter, “Rubbish, no way, and as for both of us losing it – more chance that the sun will go out tomorrow!”

“Then what can you give as the reason, Nell?”

The Deputy Head thought for a time, shrugged, “I can’t, at least not now, but something was definitely strange.”

…

Friday morning saw the normal routine for the prison; when the prison officer unlocked their cell door both Rees and Mason were sat waiting, having been up early enough to get ready, anticipating the sound of the bell. Rees took Mason down to the Mess Hall to collect breakfast and they took their trays back to the cell to eat. Afterwards they went down to the Association Room until the bell signifying the start of work. While in there they were joined by a number of other inmates. Rees spotted the one she had been looking for,

“Butcher, over here a sec,”

Butcher appeared, “Everything alright Rees?”

“Yeah, got a new roommate, thought you might want to meet her. She may make a good addition to the firm.” As she spoke Rees turned slightly to indicate the other woman. Mason rose from where she had been sitting, looked across nervously,

“Hello Butcher, long time no see.”

Butcher’s face went white, her shoulders hunched up and her fists clenched almost unconsciously, “Julie Mason,” she breathed, “You don’t know how much I’ve wanted to see you over the years.” Those nearby exchanged worried looks and moved away from the centre of the room, leaving Butcher, Rees and Mason alone.

Rees looked across sharply, “You know her, Butcher?”

“Know her? She’s the reason I’m in here.” Butcher grated out. “Aren’t you, you snivelling coward?”

Mason had gone pale too, “There was no point both of us being caught, was there? I saw a chance to leg it and did, you’d have done the same.”

“I’d have done the same?” Butcher reached forward, grabbing the other woman around the neck, “You f***ing left me to take your murder rap, you didn’t even warn me that the cops were on their way, didn’t tell me you’d killed him.”

As she spoke she was squeezing hard, both hands around Mason’s neck, Mason tried to loosen the grip, tried to distract Butcher, she might as well have attempted to move a mountain. Mason felt her senses fading and fell to the ground, Butcher went with her, squeezing, while the rest of the room watched in shock.

The shock was suddenly interrupted as an alarm was sounded, everyone knew it as the Riot Alarm, and moved to the sides of the room quickly. A number of Prison Officers, all wearing body armour and helmets, entered the room, moving swiftly they went across to where Butcher was slowly strangling Mason, with some difficulty they managed to separate the two. Mason sat on the floor, drawing in deep breaths, tears streaming down her cheeks. Butcher was being restrained, there were at least four Officers and even though they had managed to handcuff her wrists they were finding it difficult. At the door a voice sounded,

“Take Mason to the Health Department and get the rest of the women to work,” it was Miss Shaw, “Bring Butcher to the Office.”

Fiercely struggling the entire time, Butcher was dragged into the Main Office, the fact that her hands were cuffed behind her not seeming to faze her in the slightest; the Senior Officer Miss Shaw sat at the desk, she looked across as the woman was brought in,

“Not very clever, Butcher, attempting to assault another inmate in full view of the Staff. That’s three days in Solitary.”

“You think I give a damn about your bloody rules, Shaw?” Butcher snarled, “Let me loose!”

“Insubordination, another day,” Shaw’s face was unyielding.

The inmate suddenly slumped, as though admitting defeat, one of the Officers holding her relaxed his hold slightly, before Miss Shaw could warn him Butcher had twisted and kicked out. The man groaned and slumped to the floor, clutching his shattered knee cap. The rest of the officers forced Butcher to her knees.

Miss Shaw sighed, “Assault on a prison officer, that’s another ten days, Butcher, and loss of privileges for the next month.”

“Come closer, Shaw, I’ll make it a brace.”

“Threatening behaviour to a Prison Officer, that’s another day, we’re up to fifteen days so far, Butcher, I can keep going as long as you wish.”

There was silence from the inmate, she glared across at the Senior Officer but didn’t say anything further. Miss Shaw signalled for those holding Butcher to take her down to Solitary, she also rang the Health Department to get help for the downed Officer. Walking out after the Officers half-carrying Butcher she was in time to see that some of the other inmates were close. Butcher had obviously seen them too. She called out,

“Rees, Rees you hear me?”

Sara Rees replied, “Yes Butcher.”

“You’re in charge ‘til I get back. You know what to do.”

“Yes Butcher, no problem.”

The Senior Officer swore under her breath, she turned to another officer standing beside her, “Where’s Mason?”

“On her way to the Health Department, having her injuries checked out.”

“Well go down there, speak to the Senior Hospital Officer, Mason is to be placed in protective custody immediately, she is to see no one except Prison Officers, not even Trustees.”

“Yes Miss Shaw.”

 

---

#313:  Author: BethC, Location: Worcester, UK Posted: Mon Oct 03, 2005 9:15 pm

---

Hmm, interesting. Wonder how long Mason will be safe for?
Also wondering when Miss Annersley & Co. will find out what the girls have been up to...

Thanks, Lesley!

 

---

#314:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries Posted: Mon Oct 03, 2005 9:43 pm

---

ooo-er

Looking forward to seeing this one resolved. Does Julie Mason have any previous connection to the CS?

 

---

#315:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Mon Oct 03, 2005 11:28 pm

---

Thanks Lesley

15 days isn't long to wait when you're never going to get out. And gives time for stewing and planning!

Liz

 

---

#316:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 12:00 am

---

EEeeeeek!!!!

Yup, I see why Mason looked a bit green when she found out Butcher was in there.........

 

---

#317:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 12:50 am

---

Very compelling Lesley....Mason needs that protective custody, but I don't give much for her chances.

Loved Nell's comment about there being more chance that the sun would go out than both of them losing their touch simultaneously!

 

---

#318:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 10:31 am

---

I want Mason to get what's coming to her, but I don't want Butcher to get any more punishment.

 

---

#319:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 10:50 am

---

I'm with Jennie on that. No wonder Butcher is bitter!

As for the girls If the guesses are right we're right in 'Modern Times' I wonder who is leading them astray?

Thank you Lesley.

 

---

#320:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 12:28 pm

---

Intriguing all round, both with the girls and with poor Butcher.

Thanks, Lesley.

 

---

#321:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 1:09 pm

---

Thanks Lesley.

Hilda and Nell will get to the bottom of what is strange about the girls - I have every faith in them!

Also wondering how long Mason will be safe for...

 

---

#322:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 1:58 pm

---

Hmm. Great. Thank you Lesley.

 

---

#323:  Author: pim, Location: Helmel Hampster Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 4:32 pm

---

Hmmm. *ponders the situation*

Thank you Lesley

 

---

#324:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 6:09 pm

---

For the rest of that Friday Miss Annersley continued returning to the problem with the four girls, there was something wrong there, but she couldn’t quite see what it was. A visit later that morning, just before lunch, from the Senior Fire Officer for the District did not help either. He making it perfectly clear that he felt that the Head was personally responsible for the false alarm and only partly mollified by her apologies and insistence that the problem would not be repeated. A report from Nancy Chester that evening, as to the actions of the four was also puzzling. She had, on being briefed by the Head, arranged the San for her unwelcome guests. When the four had arrived they had all been ordered to undress and put on hospital gowns, they were then each shown to a bed. As the San had three twin bedded rooms Nurse Chester had placed them in two of the rooms and drawn the curtains between the beds.

“The thing is, Hilda, they didn’t do as I expected,” Nancy Chester said, with some puzzlement, “I’d drawn the blinds, thinking they would probably sleep after a while, but they didn’t.”

“None of them?” Hilda was surprised.

Nancy shook her head, “No, they didn’t even appear tired. Oh they were in silence, of course, but each time I looked in on any of them I’d find them just staring up at the ceiling, sometimes even giggling on occasion. And I know they didn’t get much sleep the rest of last night, Gertrude told me she kept a special eye on all four and they didn’t sleep at all.”

“I cannot understand this,” Miss Annersley said slowly, “Janetta should know, more than most, just how much trouble she is in, and Andrea, being here on scholarship would not want to jeopardize that. The other two have been here for long enough too, they are all acting out of character.”

“I’m not sure it’s just those four, Hilda,” Nancy Chester said hesitantly, “I’ve noticed some strange behaviour over the past week or so, ever since we returned for the new term in fact. I don’t think I’m the only one either.”

“In what way strange, Nancy?”

The Nurse thought for a time, “They seemed to have far more energy that normal, in particular the Thirds and Fourths, almost as though they were Kindergarten age again.”

Miss Annersley nodded slightly, “I seem to remember Nell saying something of the sort,” she mused, “I hadn’t noticed particularly because, due to my ankle, I’ve not been teaching a great deal.”

There’s something else, Hilda,” Nancy Chester said this very reluctantly, “I cannot be certain, but when the four first came across to me, I noticed in passing that it was very unusual to see four girls that all had black eyes.”

Hilda looked puzzled, “Why is that...” she stopped, “Did you say black eyes, Nancy? Surely not, Janetta’s parents both have blue eyes, I’m no scientist but Nell once spent an afternoon explaining the plot of an Agatha Christie novel to me, one of the premises being that two blue eyed parents cannot have a dark eyed child.”

“Well they don’t all have black eyes now, Hilda,” Nancy said softly, “and I think it's because earlier I didn’t see eye colour. I saw dilated pupils. I don’t know if you know what that means…”

Hilda suddenly nodded, an image of the man at the airport, at the start of their trip to the UK suddenly swam in front of her. “Drugs,” she said breathlessly, “You're talking about drugs.”

 

---

#325:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 6:18 pm

---

Oh dear, poor Hilda. Joining the Modern World with a vengeance!

I do hope it doesn't mean *tears before bedtime*!

Thanks, Lesley.

 

---

#326:  Author: Nicola, Location: Derbyshire Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 6:35 pm

---

Eek! Trouble in paradise. Thanks, Lesley. Eagerly awaiting more...

 

---

#327:  Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 6:46 pm

---

Thanks Lesley
This is the first chance in ages I have had time to post and I am reading this and loving it!
Good to see you don't lose your touch

 

---

#328:  Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 6:47 pm

---

As I was reading that thread, I was thinking that maybe EBD (or someone) and somehow come back and the pupils were de-aging (and becoming kindergartners again). I also thought that by "black eyes", Nancy meant that they had been punched in the eyes and had bruises (or looked like they had).

Perhaps I shouldn't make up theories anymore

 

---

#329:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 7:40 pm

---

EEEEK!

I suppose it had to come at some point, it is going to be very hard though. Does the school have a zero tolerace policy?

 

---

#330:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 7:56 pm

---

Oh nooooo!!!

I was desperately hoping it wasn't going to be that!!

 

---

#331:  Author: Rachel,  Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 7:58 pm

---

Ach, it's obvious surely?

It's that convict Cherry person supplying them all, and making a fortune on the side - no wonder she didn't need the lecture money!

 

---

#332:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 8:11 pm

---

I had my suspicions....but that's a serious issue for the school if it is indeed a drug problem.

Thanks Lesley

 

---

#333:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 8:49 pm

---

Lesley, have you been visiting my place of work by any chance? Suspected drug abuse, fire alarms set off deliberately - all we need now is someone to be involved in a fight and carted off to hospital and it would be an accurate reflection of last week at my school.

 

---

#334:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2005 10:18 pm

---

It was much later in the evening; after the sudden realisation of exactly what the RCS could be facing Miss Annersley had immediately called a meeting of the SMT, there, along with Nancy Chester, she had informed the rest of the Team.

“Drugs? Are you sure, Hilda?” This from Nell Wilson.

Miss Annersley shook her head, “No, Nell, I’m not. We have only a few small clues, the strange behaviour of the girls and Nancy seeing dilated pupils,”

“And I can’t be sure about that, either,” Nancy put in apologetically, “I’d pulled the blinds in the San, it was quite dark in there, their eyes may just have been reacting to that.”

“It’s not enough to warrant calling in the Police,” John said thoughtfully, “at least, not yet.. But it’s enough for us to be on our guard.”

“What other clues should we be looking for, John?”

The Ex-Policeman thought for a moment, “Depends what it is,” he said, “but as far as physical evidence is concerned,“ he paused, “obviously with the hard drugs you’re looking at needles and syringes, but I doubt we’re looking at anything like that at the moment. Instead you’ll be looking at either something they can smoke or swallow. A search of their belongings might show up something, but if they’re clever they will have hidden anything incriminating elsewhere.”

“It may show them that we are taking it seriously though,” Hilda put in, Jennie, could you liase with John and instigate searches?”

The Senior Housemistress nodded, “Of course, just the four girls?”

Hilda thought for a while, “No, it can’t be just them, it might be far more widespread, perhaps, as well as the four, a random search.”

“Ros Moore has mentioned to me that a number of her class are suddenly not eating,” Ruth mentioned quickly, “She thought they were just trying to slim, was keeping an eye on it. But she said that, by Tuesday night they had all returned to normal appetite. Could that be connected?”

John nodded, “Again, it might be, and if so it points that the girls are obtaining the drugs at the weekend.”

“In that case then,” Hilda said decisively, “No girl leaves the site over the weekend. At least not unaccompanied. They’ll just have to be entertained on site. Any that need items from town can leave a list and we’ll arrange for someone to go shopping.”

“You don’t think it’s a little heavy-handed, do you, Hilda?” Nell’s tones were not disapproving, merely wanting the Head to consider the possibility.

Hilda Annersley nodded, “Perhaps they are, Nell,” she conceded, “Perhaps there is no drug problem, but I’d rather discover later that all ours precautions were unnecessary, than that we didn’t do enough.”

…

Questioning of Mason in the Health Centre was pointless. When asked why Butcher had attacked her Mason had just replied that it was a personality clash. She did, however, seem somewhat relieved when told that she would be remaining in the Segregation section for the time being. This section of the prison was designed for those prisoners considered to be vulnerable, the ones convicted of attacks on children, sometimes heinous crimes. Like all Prison Officers, Miss Shaw was well aware that these individuals would be attacked and possibly killed if allowed into the normal prison life. Therefore they spent their sentence in a mini prison away from the mainstream prisoners.

Later that afternoon the Senior Officer had attempted to speak to Butcher. The Isolation wing, used for prisoners serving Solitary Confinement, consisted of some eight cells, four on either side of a corridor. There was a Wardens office and showers at one end and exit to a small courtyard at the other. This courtyard was the area where those under punishment had their hour’s exercise everyday.

The rest of the day was spent inside a square cell with only the minimum of furniture, a bed, sink, and toilet. Prisoners were issued with bedding, towels and toiletries. They were allowed a shower every other day and, at that time, provided with a full change of clothing. There was nothing else in the cells, no books, radio or TV, not even a window. The object was punishment.

Miss Shaw spoke to one of the officers on duty and was taken to the CCTV coverage, it focused on the only occupied cell. Inside Butcher was sat on the bed, her hands still restrained by the handcuffs. Geri Shaw looked across at the prison officer,

“Why are the cuffs still on?”

The officer sighed, “She won’t let us near her, Miss Shaw,” she said, “We’ve tried three times to release them, each time she’s just attacked us, last time she gave me this,” she pointed and Miss Shaw noticed that the other woman had the beginnings of a black eye. “We thought, a few hours in them, might make her calm down a bit, so far it’s not worked though.”

“Has she said why she’s so angry?”

“No, not said a word.”

“Alright, open the door.”

Inside the cell the woman sat on the bed didn’t react as the door to the cell was unlocked, as it opened though she glanced across,

“P*ss off Shaw!” Her voice was hard.

Miss Shaw shook her head, “Butcher how many more days do you want me to add to your sentence?”

“However many you like, I don’t give a damn.” Butcher stood, “Or if you want, come on in, and I’ll give you a demonstration of martial arts, no hands.”

“I think I’ll pass, thank you.” Shaw remained by the door. “Why did you attack Mason?”

Butcher looked across, “I didn’t like the way she smiled.”

Shaw sighed, “Come on Butcher, work with me here. This isn’t like you.”

“No, well it is now, screw. Get used to it.”

“Is Mason someone from your past?”

There was no answer, Butcher turned her back.

“You know you won’t have the opportunity to attack her again, Butcher.”

“Protective custody, is it, Shaw? She in with all the paedophiles and weirdoes then?”

“Yes.”

“Got news for you, screw, I’ll still get her.” The certainty in Butcher’s voice was unsettling.

“And if you do, Butcher? You know that’ll mean you’ll be re-classified.”

At these words Butcher turned and walked across until she was standing directly in front of the officer, “Give me one minute alone with her,” she said, “and I’ll accept even that.” Her eyes, hard and full of anger, bore into the Senior Officer. After some seconds she turned away again.

Miss Shaw stared after her for some seconds, the officer with her went to lock the cell door again but Shaw stopped her.

“I can’t help you, Butcher, if you won’t help yourself. I’ll speak to you again after the weekend.”

There was no reply. Walking quietly into the cell Shaw stepped up behind the convict, aware that Butcher could hear her approach. She reached down and unlocked one of the cuffs from around Butcher’s wrists. Butcher turned fast, one hand grabbing hold of Shaw’s arm.

“Why did you do that? Put yourself in danger?”

Shaw looked down at where Butcher was holding her, “I know how it feels, having your hands chained behind you. After a time you lose all feeling in the hands.”

Butcher looked down, on Shaw’s wrists were faint white marks, scars. She released Shaw’s arm, “Get out Shaw, now.”

Miss Shaw nodded and left the cell, the other officer swiftly slammed the door shut and locked it, leaving Butcher alone.

 

---

#335:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW Posted: Wed Oct 05, 2005 1:46 am

---

Very very intriguing Lesley. Full marks to Miss Shaw for her courage and compassion, and recognition that this is not like Butcher, that there is something deeply wrong.

And Real Life hits the RCS in a big way.

 

---

#336:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US Posted: Wed Oct 05, 2005 2:25 am

---

I hope these problems aren't as intractable as they look!

*adds another cheer for Miss Shaw*

 

---

#337:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW Posted: Wed Oct 05, 2005 3:06 am

---

How stupid are those girls? Fancy thinking they can get away with it during term time with the amount of supervision they get.

(subscribing firmly to the child raising theory that involves putting said child in a box as soon as they hit puberty and letting them out at 25)

 

---

#338:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire Posted: Wed Oct 05, 2005 7:43 am

---

Any possibility of Hilda being allowed in to see Butcher? Would she be able to get through?

And will she be able to help these silly girls?

Thanks, Lesley.

 

---

#339:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Wed Oct 05, 2005 8:50 am

---

Thank you Lesley. Geri Shaw is great, well done her for recognising that there is more to this than meets the eye not Butcher just needs to help herself.

As for the silly girls if they are doing drugs and think they can get away with it then I'm sure they'll soon realise their mistake.

 

---

#340:  Author: Katarzyna, Location: North West England Posted: Wed Oct 05, 2005 8:52 am

---

Hummm, modern day experiences hitting with a vengenace!
Wonder who their supplier is? I have my suspicions!

As for Butcher - get the feeling that Miss Shaw may perhaps ask Miss A to visit?

More please Lesley

 

---

#341:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Wed Oct 05, 2005 10:48 am

---

I suppose it was inevitable but it's still rather disturbing as it sounds as if it's quite widespread. I can understand Hilda over reacting. If I hit that problem, I'd probably suscribe to Miss Di's suggestion of putting them in a box!

As for the Mason - Butcher storyline. I'm still wondering if Mason will turn out to have CS connections with coming from England? I do like Geri shaw!

 

---

#342:  Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England Posted: Wed Oct 05, 2005 12:06 pm

---

There are similarities between Cherry's story & Butcher's - only Cherry was young enough to let Hilda help her. Butcher has been on her own for so long she doesn't know how to let anyone in.

 

---

#343:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire Posted: Wed Oct 05, 2005 12:38 pm

---

Thankyou Lesley - hmmmmm, disturbing indeed. I know absolutely nothing about drugs at all so will sit back and watch with interest as Hilda and Nell solve the problem!

And Go Miss Shaw! Hope someone can get through to Butcher.

 

---

#344:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Wed Oct 05, 2005 12:38 pm

---

Thanks Lesley

Will be interested to see how the problems are dealt with in both institutions.

Liz

 

---

#345:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent Posted: Thu Oct 06, 2005 4:37 am

---

Sorry about last night - too tired - am away tonight so no more of this until tomorrow night (Friday).

 

---

#346:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England Posted: Thu Oct 06, 2005 8:03 am

---

Hope your trip away goes well Lesley and you can catch up on some rest

Liz

 

---

#347:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! Posted: Thu Oct 06, 2005 4:47 pm

---

Have a good trip Lesley!

Those silly, silly girls!
*shakes head despairingly*

 

---

#348:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries Posted: Thu Oct 06, 2005 6:47 pm

---

Hope you have a nice trip, Lesley! Looking forward to more when you get back.

 

---

#349:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under Posted: Thu Oct 06, 2005 8:17 pm

---

Well I knew there was practically a speed epidemic in Australia at the moment (well OK Tasmania and Victoria that I know of) but Third and Fourth formers??? Oh well it is the RCS!

BTW Thanks Lesley - got to finish Dilemma for the Deputy Head (the last 30 pages or so) then start this all in one day

 

---

#350:  Author: Josie, Location: London Posted: Thu Oct 06, 2005 8:40 pm

---

Thanks Lesley - have just caught up again!

Also now looking forward to seeing how problems are dealt with!

Hope you manage to catch up on some sleep, hon, and the trip goes well.

 

---

---

---

The CBB -> Ste Therese's House

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

Goto page 1, 2  Next  :| |: Page 1 of 2

Powered by phpBB 2.0.6 © 2001,2002 phpBB Group