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The CBB -> Ste Therese's House
#351:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Fri Oct 07, 2005 1:58 pm

Thanks Lesley for all you've written so far - hope you manage to catch up on sleep
((((Lesley))))

 

#352:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Oct 07, 2005 6:28 pm

Hi all! Managed to write some on the train.

At the Real Chalet School there had been a great deal of discussion about how they were going to tackle the possible problem of drugs on site. John Coates’ experience as an ex-police officer was invaluable here.

“One of the difficulties,” he began, “is getting the teenagers to admit that they’ve been taking anything. Especially as, to them, it’s no different to them seeing adults smoking cigarettes or drinking alcohol. In addition the main problem isn’t so much the girls themselves, it’s where they are getting their supplies. The dealer.”

“You’ll forgive me, John,” Hilda put in quickly, “but as far as I’m concerned the main problem is the girls. This school is the same as most education establishments, we have a policy, I believe it is known as ‘zero tolerance’ with regard to drugs. I need to know if the girls are taking drugs, as quickly as possible.”

“Is there any way to test the girls, John?”

John Coates thought for a moment, “There are some tests, for specific drugs, but not all. Plus, once the effects have worn off there’s nothing left in the system. From what you’ve said, the symptoms the girls have shown, I’d say we’re looking at a stimulant rather than a depressant, could be acid, speed or ecstasy. Most likely in tablet form or, in the case of acid - that’s LSD - tiny pieces of paper with the drug imprinted on them.”

“Paper?” Nell sounded puzzled.

“Yes, normally with pictures on them, designed to appeal to kids, I’ve seen them with Superman logos and Bart Simpson pictures.”

That’s terrible!” The words came from a number of those gathered in the Head’s Study.

John shrugged, “It’s one of the reasons they appeal, the other is the price, the charge for each hit is only ten dollars, a kid can easily afford it, use their weakly allowance to buy a couple of trips. They think, using only at the weekend, that they’ll be fine in the week, but sometimes the effects last.”

“Do the effects last until mid-week?” Hilda herself asked the question, “The fire alarm was set off early on Thursday morning.”

John shook his head, “Unlikely,” he said, “I expect that, on that occasion, the girls took a tablet or whatever on Wednesday evening, didn’t think it would affect them that much.”

There was silence for a time, and then John spoke again, “Hilda, I would recommend that all the Middles dormitories are searched. It will need to be done with the girls present, of course, and should not specifically concentrate on the four girls involved in the fire alarm business – it is possible that, if they did take drugs, this was the first time.”

“Very well John,” Miss Annersley nodded, “Jennie, liase please with your Housemistresses and with the Mistresses on duty to arrange this, John, could you obtain pictures of exactly what they will be looking for? Some of the original school Mistresses will be somewhat naïve about this.”

“Not just original school, Hilda,” this from Jennie, “I imagine that not all of us have experience.”

Hilda nodded and continued, “Ruth, please let all Teaching Staff know that any weekend leave is cancelled except for exceptional circumstances, any Staff who feel they have good reason come and see me before breakfast tomorrow. Those who lose leave will have it repaid at a later date.”

“Yes Hilda, what of entertaining the School for the weekend? I imagine that the Housemistresses’ ideas included a lot of things off-site?”

“I’ll discuss that with you, Ruth,” Nell put in, “I’m sure we can think of some things to keep them occupied!” She turned to speak to Mollie, “What about it, Mollie, have we got some spare cash to arrange some things?”

Mollie smiled, “We’re pretty well off at the moment, Nell, especially as all the money for the pool was advanced to us from the Board, I’d been expecting to have to fund 25% ourselves. With Hilda’s permission I can release significant funds.” She looked across at Miss Annersley who nodded permission.

Karen suddenly spoke up, startling some of the others as she had rarely spoken before at the SMT meetings, “Hilda, as the entire School is going to be here for the weekend I feel that a full kitchen service should be provided, rather than the normal buffet service.”

“Good point, Karen,” Hilda said quickly, “Will that be a problem?”

“Not at all,” Karen replied promptly, “if you can authorise overtime payments for certain of my staff we will be able to cope.”

“No problem, Karen,” Hilda said quickly. She looked around at the other six people in the room, “I sincerely hope that all these preparations will prove to have been unnecessary, that we will discover a totally innocuous and innocent reason behind all of our suspicions. But if we do discover drugs have been brought on site and taken the consequences for those responsible will be grim. Thank you in advance for your hard work over this weekend.”

Recognising the dismissal the meeting broke up, the others all quietly murmuring their farewells. When the door had closed on them it left just two in the Study; Miss Annersley and Miss Wilson. Miss Annersley looked across at her friend,

“Any comments, Nell?”

Nell Wilson thought for a time, then replied, “I agree with what you’re doing, Hilda, of course I do. The thought of having our kids exposed to drugs sickens me. There is one thing though,”

“Oh?”

“You said the consequences could be grim, are you considering expulsion?”

“Yes Nell, I am, as I said before, our policy is zero tolerance.”

“Even though one of the girls is Janetta Mackenzie? Con’s daughter?”

Hilda looked across at her friend, her eyes dark, when she spoke it was very quietly, “Even though,” she said.

 

#353:  Author: Nina, Location: Peterborough, UK PostPosted: Fri Oct 07, 2005 6:38 pm

*wibbles* I knew there was a reason I cleared out the space under my desk last night ...

Thank you Lesley!

 

#354:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Fri Oct 07, 2005 7:04 pm

Scary!

Perhaps it's just as well I haven't applied to teach chemistry at the RCS, for all I actually trust their administrators....

*ponders source of drugs*
(assuming, of course, that it IS drugs)

 

#355:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Fri Oct 07, 2005 7:51 pm

*wibbles a bit*

Thanks Lesley

 

#356:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Oct 07, 2005 7:59 pm

Oh dear, how difficult for them, but they can't treat one girl any different.

Mind you, if those girls have taken what they had, then they won't be the ones found in posession will they? I presume they will need to be found to have drugs in their posession in order to be expelled.

 

#357:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Oct 07, 2005 8:09 pm

Poor Hilda! Not nice at all! Crying or Very sad

Thanks, Lesley.

 

#358:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Oct 07, 2005 8:27 pm

A very difficult situation for the entire school. If Janetta is caught with drugs, out she goes. The only way to stop other girls imitating the first lot is to get tough.

Thanks Lesley, I really appreciated that post, you must be almost exhousted after your work and the journeys.

 

#359:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Oct 07, 2005 9:19 pm

Goodness me, that will be difficult. I'm hoping desperately that nothing is found and that it's a false alarm, but.... somehow I can't imagine you will let us all off that easily Lesley!

Thankyou so much for giving us more so soon Very Happy

 

#360:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Sat Oct 08, 2005 12:18 am

Oh dear, poor Hilda, faced with the possibility of expelling Con's daughter, but it is the only way.
Sophoife - the speed epidemic is also rife in NSW . . .

 

#361:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Oct 08, 2005 5:28 am

Just to warn everyone - am going to Bath Book Fair - more of this tomorrow.

 

#362:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Sat Oct 08, 2005 9:07 am

Thank you Lesley. Enjoy Bath!

 

#363:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Oct 08, 2005 10:06 am

Thanks Lesley

*tries to think if it could be anything other than illegal drugs*

Liz

 

#364:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Sat Oct 08, 2005 1:35 pm

Wibbling - the only *hope* I have is that the drugs were provided by some nasty character we've not yet met (eg new domestic staff) and that the girls didn't realise what they were taking


but I think that's very unlikely



knowing Lesley it will be something completely different that none of us have thought of Rolling Eyes


Hope you've had a lovely time in Bath Lesley and spent lots of money on some really nice books

 

#365:  Author: Miriam, Location: Jerusalem, Israel PostPosted: Sat Oct 08, 2005 6:23 pm

Regrets I was away too long to properly smirk. Neutral

Smirks anyway. Very Happy

Even if I was wrong, at least I am in good company, with all the RCS staff agreeing with me.

Awaiting developments.

Thank you.

 

#366:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sat Oct 08, 2005 7:25 pm

Hope you've had a brilliant time at Bath Lesley, and that you'll come back and put us out of our misery fairly soon!

 

#367:  Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK PostPosted: Sat Oct 08, 2005 7:36 pm

I always think when I see kids smoking outside the school opposite the hospital where I work(ed) that they should be taken to the chest ward to visit the old people with COPD, emphysema (?sp) and lung cancer so they can hear how horrible their coughs are. Perhaps Hilda could arrange something similar when she catches the culprits.

 

#368:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Oct 09, 2005 3:20 pm

That weekend was rather strange; at least to those pupils and Staff that had not attended the original chalet school. Having the entire School and almost all the pupils confined to the School grounds for the weekend was not unusual for the original Staff and pupils of course, but the circumstances surrounding it were. First thing on Saturday morning saw the School awoken by the rising bell – unusual in itself as the only time bells were normally sounded at the weekend were at Half term when everyone was going on expeditions. The Housemistresses and their assistants were there in all the Boarding Houses informing all that an extraordinary Assembly was to be held after Breakfast and that, for now, the bell meant a normal day. There were a number of moans and complaints but, on the whole, discipline was such that the School in general reacted well and just got up and ready for the day as normal.

Breakfast saw the School gathered together enjoying a full cooked breakfast, rather than the buffet affair that was normal for the weekend. Speculation was rife among the pupils but they were unable to discover anything at the time. The Teaching Staff were aware of the change in plans; Miss Annersley had called a full Staff meeting early that morning to explain to them the reason for the change in routine. However for the girls themselves it was decided not to give any explicit reasons, instead, at Assembly, Miss Annersley mentioned that it had been decided to have a weekend on-site and to take the opportunity to perform a number of housekeeping exercises.

“There will, therefore, be no trips to the town today girls,” she said, “Any of you who have urgent supplies to buy or items to collect should give a list to their Form Mistress – there will be a supply run performed by some of the Mistresses this afternoon. As a recompense for this weekend though, you will be pleased to know that I have decided to lengthen the Half Term holiday – it will now run until Tuesday 23rd September. Now, I believe that both Miss Wilson and Mrs Macleod have some information about the rest of the weekend.”

The Head sat back down and listened while the two named ran through what was being provided for the weekend, from an entertainment point of view the girls could not complain. The lecture theatres had been opened up for a number of the latest movie releases once more and another, smaller room had been provided with a selection of videos and DVD’s to choose from. In addition the Games Staff had a basketball tournament arranged, in three sections, for Juniors, Middles and Seniors. Also outside, for the hardy, was surfing, though for this the girls had to already be proficient as the waves were rather choppy - some of the Security Staff would be supervising this. Plus the athletics track had been transformed into a quad bike racing track and there was a meeting that afternoon to discover a champion racer.

The actual reason for the girls being confined to the School Grounds was handled subtly, with Mrs Macleod mentioning that all Boarding Houses would be having a routine cleaning exercise and that, prior to that, all the girls must show completely tidy lockers and bed spaces. Perhaps some of the older Middles and Seniors were suspicious as the real reason for this, however none could give any legitimate complaint. Once Miss Annersley had dismissed the School to their activities the searches began in earnest.

Using John Coates’ extensive Police knowledge the Housemistresses and Security Staff moved from one Boarding House to another. The girls were there when their belongings were searched and, in most cases, were able to help out, having no reason to try and do anything else. Some of the Juniors showed exceptionally guilty consciences, so much so that the Head, on seeing them, had to be careful not to laugh out loud. It was with some relief that the reason for the guilt was small (and sometimes not so small) stashes of chocolate! Also some of the Seniors were aghast to find that their supply of somewhat unsuitable books and DVD’s (unsuitable due to excessive violence and, in the case of one girl, soft porn!) were discovered. However these discoveries were merely noted for deliberation at a later date.

The Middle Houses provided the main area of concern; to begin with there was only one find, a small number of white tablets in one girl’s locker. When tasked on this the girl first said they were for a headache, however Nurse Chester was able to confirm that she had issued no tablets to the girl. When further questioning elicited no response John Coates said he would sent the tablets to the Police Lab for analysis - at this the girl broke down in tears and confessed they were, in fact, Ecstasy. The discovery galvanised the searchers and, as well as the dormitories themselves, all the bathrooms, store rooms and cloakrooms were also checked.

By the end of the day, when all searching within the Boarding Houses was complete, a report was made back to the Headmistress. It was not good news. In total sixteen girls, all in the Middle school, mainly the Fourths, had been caught in possession of white tablets. In addition a further five ‘stashes’ of tablets had been discovered within the Houses in toilet cisterns or beneath baths. The amount of tablets discovered in each case was small - just one or two - but it didn't disguise the fact that The Real Chalet School had a serious drug problem.

 

#369:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sun Oct 09, 2005 3:29 pm

Ooh, wibbling now.

 

#370:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sun Oct 09, 2005 3:48 pm

*seriously wibbling*

Rather amused by the Juniors guilt and Shocked at the Senior!

 

#371:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sun Oct 09, 2005 4:00 pm

*chokes with laughter at the senior with the soft porn DVD!*


*wibbles over the drugs*

Thanks Lesley!

 

#372:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Oct 09, 2005 5:16 pm

Ooer! I imagine the chocolate and unsuitable DVDs etc have paled into insignificance at the discovery of the tablets.

*joins the wibbling brigade*

 

#373:  Author: Ray, Location: Bristol, England PostPosted: Sun Oct 09, 2005 5:24 pm

Muchly amused by the books, DVDs and chocolate.

Muchly less amused by the other finds though. Things don't look good.

Ray *joining the wibblers*

 

#374:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Sun Oct 09, 2005 6:47 pm

So far Hilda and Nell have coped brilliantly (naturally!!) with everything that the modern world has thrown at them. I simply cannot believe that they won't be as competant dealing with this. Thanks Lesley -are we getting some more tonight? Please?

 

#375:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Oct 09, 2005 7:03 pm

But who supplied the girls with the drugs? That's what I'd like to know. Thanks Lesley

 

#376:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Oct 09, 2005 9:45 pm

The sixteen were scattered throughout the Boarding Houses designated for the Middles - numbers 4, 5 and 6 being the main ones, and were, almost without exception, in one of the Lower or Upper Fourths. Hilda Annersley took a very small amount of comfort in this, that it seemed the Third Formers were not as badly affected. However even this was dissipated when John said that it was possible that the rest of the girls had been better at hiding things, and when Nell reminded her friend that the Thirds had been behaving as strangely. John recommended that the Police were called in now as there was significant evidence of drug taking.

After some deliberation the Head did just that and, a short time later she, Nell Wilson and John Coates were speaking with Inspector Darrin Curtis, the man with responsibility for Drug Enforcement for the region. After she had explained all that the School Authorities had done since the first suspicion he nodded slightly,

“Well I can’t fault you in what you’ve done, Miss Annersley,” he said eventually, “I wish all Schools were so quick to act. Many of them seem to act like ostriches, stick their heads in the sand and hope the problem goes away. It’s nice when I come across those prepared to take it seriously.”

“We am prepared to do anything to rid this School of drugs, Inspector,” Miss Wilson returned, “What do you recommend as the next step?”

Curtis thought for a moment, “Firstly, we need to ensure that there are no more drugs on-site - at least within the buildings, I cannot vouch for the grounds as easily. I should like to bring in some dog handlers, the dogs are trained to sniff out drugs, they might be able to discover further supplies missed by John and his men.” He grinned across at John Coates before adding hastily, “Not that I feel John had done a bad job, just that the dogs’ noses are rather more sensitive!”

The Head smiled slightly at this, “Of course, Inspector, your men and the dogs may have full run of the School - though I would recommend that you liase with our Domestic Manager before attempting to enter the kitchens!”

John, with memories of a time his Security Staff had attempted to enter the Kitchen uninvited nodded vigorously in accompaniment.

“Good,” Curtis nodded, “Now, as to the girls themselves, the sixteen who have been discovered in possession of these tablets - and we will be confirming that they are Ecstasy - have committed a criminal offence. Namely that of being in possession of a Class A drug, the maximum penalty for that is up to seven years in jail and/or a fine. But this is a first offence, and they are all minors, so they will probably be given an official reprimand or warning.”

“As you are aware we have pupils from both Europe and North America, Inspector,” Miss Annersley put in, “For those children, and indeed for all pupils, I have loco parentis, I can act as their Guardian should you wish there to be any official police action. At least until their parents arrive.”

“Good, I think the girls need a short, sharp shock as to the seriousness of their actions,” Curtis said approvingly, “that way you are far less likely to ever be troubled with them repeating their offence while at school.”

“I have been considering whether or not they will have the opportunity, Inspector Curtis,” Hilda said grimly, “this School operates a zero tolerance with regard to drug taking.”

Curtis looked across, “You mean you’re contemplating expulsion?”

“I am,” the Head’s face was almost impassive though her eyes showed just how much the possibility was affecting her.

Curtis thought for a moment, then shook his head, “I can see why you would think that,” he said eventually, “but it may not be advisable. Although a serious offence, with any luck, with the way we treat it now, the girls will all be scared enough that they never contemplate taking drugs again. Of course, should they transgress again expulsion would be fully justified.”

“You don’t feel it would look as though we were being too lenient?” This from Nell Wilson.

“Not if they have sufficient punishment and a suitable chat about their transgressions.”

Miss Annersley smiled very slightly, “Oh I think we can promise that, Inspector!” she said demurely. Both Nell Wilson and John Coates convulsed with silent laughter at this.

A short time later, stifling his giggles, John spoke again, “We’ve isolated the sixteen girls that were caught with tablets,” he said quickly, “they are all in one of the classrooms, a couple of my men are there as well as some of the Teaching Staff. They’ve not had any contact with the rest of the School, I don’t think the School at large even know there’s a problem.”

“Good,” Curtis said quickly, “Is there any way that can continue? That the School are kept in ignorance, even once we’ve had the dogs in?”

Miss Annersley nodded, “It is possible,” she said, “We can arrange for the girls to all move across to one of the new Boarding Houses, the one that hasn’t yet been used until now. It wouldn’t take much effort to make a dormitory fit for habitation. May I ask why, Inspector?”

“Because I don’t want their supplier to hear anything,” he said quickly, “At the moment I’m not sure whether the supplier is someone off site or on. So am taking no chances.”

“The School will all be out of their Boarding Houses for the rest of the day, until this evening,” Miss Annersley replied, “and the girls will not have their mobiles with them or any other means of calling into town.”

Curtis nodded, then his expression darkened slightly, “Actually I’d be surprised if they got the tablets off site,” he said, “it’s more likely to be someone supplying it here at the School. I’ll need a full Staff list, Miss Annersley, and any details you may have about any member of staff who might have a criminal record or previous convictions.”

 

#377:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Oct 09, 2005 9:57 pm

Thanks Lesley

*wondering exactly who the 16 are*

*wanting to know who the scum supplying is*

*putting implements out in the rain to rust in preparation for dealing with abovementioned scum*

Liz

 

#378:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Sun Oct 09, 2005 10:58 pm

Seriously bad news. Glad to hear Hilda won't have to contemplate mass expulsions, but worried about the implications of "criminal record or previous convictions." Plus, Hilda, Nell and even Cherry have made enemies of some pretty shady characters....

 

#379:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Oct 10, 2005 1:07 am

Shocked Blimey! (though also had a giggle at the other 'contraband'!)

Now wondering whos dealing and who the 16 are.

Thanks Lesley. Hope you had a good time in Bath! Very Happy

 

#380:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Oct 10, 2005 1:11 am

Full marks to Hilda! I do hope Cherry doesn't come under suspicion because she's been inside Shocked

 

#381:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Oct 10, 2005 3:48 am

Am away again tonight! Work I'm afraid - more of this tomorrow.

 

#382:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Mon Oct 10, 2005 4:00 am

Lesley, do we need to have a CBB protest march on your employers to encourage them to:

a) make you work less hours while paying you the same
b) send you on an all expenses paid world cruise
c) with broadband
d) all of the above

 

#383:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Oct 10, 2005 4:06 am

Yes please Di! Laughing

 

#384:  Author: Robin, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Oct 10, 2005 9:40 am

wow, tough decisions ahead, I think.

thanks Lesley

 

#385:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Oct 10, 2005 10:30 am

Wow. Thank you Lesley.

 

#386:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Oct 10, 2005 10:52 am

Thanks, Lesley. I knw Cherry will come under suspicion, but I honestly don't think she would let Hilda nd Nell down in that way. And we have to consider waht she would suffer if she were separated from Robbie again. If it's drugs, she would have to do a long stretch, and she might not get him back again.

 

#387:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire PostPosted: Mon Oct 10, 2005 11:42 am

Thankyou Lesley.

Uh oh - this is bad news Sad

I'm wibbling somewhat about the identity of the supplier. Confused

 

#388:  Author: catherine, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne PostPosted: Mon Oct 10, 2005 11:56 am

Oh dear ...

Cherry will come under suspicion but I do hope the supplier won't implicate her.

 

#389:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Mon Oct 10, 2005 1:23 pm

*wibbles at the idea of the supplier being someone on site*

 

#390:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon Oct 10, 2005 5:21 pm

Gosh what an awful situation. *also wondering who the 16 are*

Thanks Lesley

 

#391:  Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK PostPosted: Mon Oct 10, 2005 8:21 pm

Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaargh! Lesley!

 

#392:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Mon Oct 10, 2005 10:34 pm

argh no!

How dare you go away on work? And leave us hanging there like that?

*writes strongly worded letter to Lesley's employers saying that all overnight trips must be scheduled when there is NOT an RCS WIP*

 

#393:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Oct 11, 2005 5:38 pm

francesn wrote:
*writes strongly worded letter to Lesley's employers saying that all overnight trips must be scheduled when there is NOT an RCS WIP*


What, never then? Laughing

The sixteen girls who had been caught in possession of the tablets had all been fairly quiet for some time, most of them in a state of shock. Many didn’t seem to appreciate just how much trouble they were in, although the stern demeanour from both the Mistresses and Security Staff was making a distinct impression. One of the Mistresses was Ms Moore, the Head of the Middles; she was sat at the Mistresses Desk, ostensibly reading a novel and completely ignoring the girls. Her anger and disappointment at the girls’ behaviour was palpable, especially as four of the girls were in her own class. Initially she had completely ignored the girls, however, when one of them had asked her, in a trembling voice, what was likely to happen, she put her book down,

“I’m not absolutely sure what is going to happen, Mary,” she said bluntly, “this has never occurred before.”

“Will our parents have to know?” another girl asked timidly.

Ros Moore nodded, “Yes, Mandy, they will. I should imagine that Miss Annersley will contact them as soon as the police confirm the identity of the tablets you’ve been taking.”

“The Police?” The words were uttered by a number of shocked voices.

Ms Moore looked round, “Of course the Police,” she said roughly, “Did you think Miss Annersley could overlook it? If these tablets are Ecstasy then you girls have broken the law. If you were only a few years older you could go to prison.” Ros looked round at the girls, all sixteen of them were now grouped around the desk, “Did you not realise that?” she asked gently.

Silence for a time, none of the girls wanting to answer, then one of only two Third Formers, quietly asked, “What will Miss Annersley say?”

Ros almost forgot herself enough to smile; the girls seemed far more worried about facing the Head than facing their parents or the Police. She schooled her features into a more serious mien, “I don’t know Charlotte,” she said honestly, “but she’s unlikely to be pleased, is she?”

A short time later, word reached the Geography Head that the girls were to be taken across to the empty Boarding House where they would be spending the night. Shortly after arriving there some of the Domestic Staff appeared with bedding supplies; the girls, inhabiting the two dormitories on the Ground Floor, were tasked with making up their beds. While doing this Housemistresses brought across toiletries and night clothes for all the girls. It was barely six pm outside, but the girls all got changed, ready for bed without demur, even though they could hear the sounds of revelry outside, knew that the rest of the School had at least three or four hours of fun left.

Karen and some of her Staff appeared with trays of food for all the girls and they sat on their beds trying to eat. All of them enjoined to finish their meals. As they were finishing there was the sound of footsteps and the front door opened. A few minutes later and the Head was standing in front of them. Miss Annersley looked round, her expression grim. She turned to Ros Moore,

“Ms Moore, could you ask the other girls to file in here please? I only want to say this one time.”

Ms Moore nodded and disappeared; a short time later the girls in the other dormitory filed in and took seats on nearby beds.

Miss Annersley took a quick breath, “I have just been informed that the Police Forensic Laboratory has made a formal identification of the tablets sent to them for analysis,” she began. “The tablets are all known as MDMA – otherwise known as Ecstasy. It is a criminal offence to possess such drugs and therefore the Police will interview all of you girls tomorrow. They will decide on what further action needs to be taken.”

She paused there as her words had been greeted by a number of gasps, as though the girls had only just awoken to the enormity of their actions. After a few seconds she continued, “I will be informing your parents this evening, to allow time for those that are able to travel here for the interviews, however I’m well aware that the majority of you live too far away. Either Miss Wilson or I will therefore sit in as Guardian for those who require an adult presence during these interviews.”

“Oh please, Miss Annersley, don’t tell my parents.” The plea came from a girl sat near the back, the Head looked over to identify her,

“Victoria, I have no choice in the matter,” she said solemnly, “I am obligated to inform your parents or Guardians. Even if I did not the Police would themselves be contacting them.”

There were a number of stifled groans as this information permeated. Miss Annersley glanced round at the girls; without exception they appeared shocked, the sudden realisation that their actions were going to have serious consequences. Her expression remained grim,

“I hope all of you appreciate just how serious this is,” she began, “and how disappointed I am with your behaviour. I will decide on whether you have a future here at the Real Chalet School after you discover how the Police are going to treat this. For now, however, I do not want you associating with the rest of the School and I certainly do not feel that you deserve any of the treats available at present. You will remain here in these dormitories until you have seen the Police tomorrow. You will not have access to television or radio and you may not use your mobile phones. You are in silence until I say otherwise and may only speak with an adult, not each other. Goodnight.”

The Head left the dormitory then, leaving Ms Moore and the others to get the shocked girls to bed. As she left there were footsteps behind her,

“Auntie Hilda, Auntie Hilda please!”

Miss Annersley continued walking, then, “I-I mean Miss Annersley.”

Miss Annersley turned to see Janetta Mackenzie standing just outside the Dorm, “Yes Janetta?”

“Miss Annersley, what will Mum say?”

The Head paused, reflecting on Con Mackenzie’s peppery temper, “I should imagine that she will be very cross and disappointed, Janetta,” she said softly, “she has already heard about your bad behaviour in setting off the fire alarm, this will just add to her distress.”

“But it’s only a few tablets, everyone’s doing it.”

“That is not reason enough for you to follow the herd, Janetta. Now return to your dormitory and try and get some sleep. You will discover the consequences of your actions tomorrow.”

Later that evening Nell Wilson returned from a check throughout the entire School to see that the rest of the pupils were safe and well. She found the Head sat at her desk, listening on the telephone. To judge by the angry tones from the other end it was not a pleasant call. Eventually, after some minutes of ranting the person appeared to be somewhat mollified and Miss Annersley was able to pass along some information before replacing the receiver.

“Irate parent?”

”You could say that, Nell,” Hilda Annersley replied tiredly, “Unable to believe that I could allow their precious girl to take drugs.”

“Blaming you?” Nell Wilson sounded annoyed, “As if it’s your fault!”

Hilda shrugged, “My responsibility Nell,” she said, she looked down at a list, “that’s eight down, eight to go, though four of those eight are in the UK or North America and will have to wait until later.”

What of Con, have you spoken to her yet?”

“No, she’s next.”

“Want me to do it?”

“Thanks Nell, but no, again, it's my responsibility."

 

#394:  Author: Bookwormsarah, Location: Cambridge, UK PostPosted: Tue Oct 11, 2005 6:10 pm

Oh, what a horrible job for Hilda.

<Sarah goes slowly purple from holding her breath>

 

#395:  Author: Liane, Location: Manchester England PostPosted: Tue Oct 11, 2005 6:13 pm

Fantastic as usual Lesley. Thank you.

 

#396:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Oct 11, 2005 7:32 pm

Thank you Lesley!!

What a horrible situation for both Hilda and Nell!

 

#397:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Oct 11, 2005 7:52 pm

Confused Oh dear. This isn't going to be the pleasantest conversation Hilda's ever had. Con'll go mad!

Thanks Lesley

 

#398:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Oct 11, 2005 8:06 pm

Oh dear....poor Hilda, and no doubt she will also feel herself to be to some extent responsible anyway, and hearing what all those parents have to say will not be nice.

 

#399:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Tue Oct 11, 2005 8:48 pm

Con is going to go spare. Nasty.

Thank you Lesley.

 

#400:  Author: Rachel,  PostPosted: Tue Oct 11, 2005 9:24 pm

Excellent posts Lesley.

Can't think of any thing else to say in admiration. Excellent!

 

#401:  Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans PostPosted: Tue Oct 11, 2005 10:11 pm

I definately don't envy Hilda that phonecall, or any of them really but to have to call Con about this *winces*

Thanks Lesley!

 

#402:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 12:50 am

Oh no! That conversation won't be pleasant... I hope Hilda will be able to remember that this isn't her fault, even if irate parents try to suggest that it is.
However, good to see that the girls now seem to be suitably impressed by the enormity of their offence.
And Janetta - "everyone else does it" is about the lamest defence in the book!

 

#403:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 1:59 am

May I suggest that they are all given a copy of "Anna's Story" to read, mark and inwardly digest while they are in silence.




Anna's Story by Bronwyn Donaghy is about a Sydney teenager who died after taking e in 1995. It's true.

 

#404:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 4:24 am

Cath V-P wrote:
And Janetta - "everyone else does it" is about the lamest defence in the book!


But one that is used so frequently by teenagers!

 

#405:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 7:03 am

Alas, I know...I hear it from my son, frequently! (but, not, thank heavens about drug or alcohol issues)

 

#406:  Author: Robin, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 12:24 pm

Lesley wrote:
Cath V-P wrote:
And Janetta - "everyone else does it" is about the lamest defence in the book!


But one that is used so frequently by teenagers!


and the usual response is "if everyone else was jumping off cliffs, would you do it?"

Poor Hilda, not a pleasant call. Can just picture Con peacefully going about her business and being completely shocked.

Thanks lesley

 

#407:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 12:43 pm

Robin wrote:
and the usual response is "if everyone else was jumping off cliffs, would you do it?"


In RCS we might just answer 'yes' Laughing

Thanks Lesley

*still wondering who is supplying*

Liz

 

#408:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 1:54 pm

Very sticky situation they're in.

Thank you, Lesley

 

#409:  Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 2:17 pm

You realise that the fact that Cherry doesn't want the money from lecturing is going to implicate her even more in the police force's eyes, don't you? "Why don't you need the extra money? Do you make enough from drug dealing?"

And, isn't there another member of staff who has been in prison?

 

#410:  Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK PostPosted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 2:34 pm

Lyanne wrote:
And, isn't there another member of staff who has been in prison?


Not to mention all the other members of staff who regularly visit the prison for adult education. (As for staff who have been inside, I'd really like to see the police try and pin this on Hilda, I think that would be very funny and last about 5 seconds.)

 

#411:  Author: Caroline OSullivan, Location: Reading, Berkshire, UK PostPosted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 7:31 pm

Poor Hilda. I don't envy her that responsibility.
**Remembers Con's reaction to Peggy Burnett in Surfeit and wibbles.**

 

#412:  Author: Rachel,  PostPosted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 7:43 pm

Caroline OSullivan wrote:
**Remembers Con's reaction to Peggy Burnett in Surfeit and wibbles.**


Good grief - you mean we're supposed to be able to remember things too?!?!





(Pssst! What was Con's reaction to Peggy in Surfeit?)

 

#413:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire PostPosted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 9:13 pm

*Very glad Rachel asked that question; waiting patiently for someone clever to supply the answer! Wink *

Thankyou Lesley - such a lot here to wibble about! And I do feel for poor Hilda having all this on her shoulders.

 

#414:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 9:32 pm

Helen P wrote:
*Very glad Rachel asked that question; waiting patiently for someone clever to supply the answer! Wink *


In Surfeit, Janetta Mackenzie, Evvy Van Alden and Shane Coates are nearly killed when a phone call, supposedly from Hilda, fools Peggy Burnett into thinking the girls are wanted back at the RCS. Con tears into Peggy, shouting and screaming, blaming her for Janetta's disappearance. In the end it's Nell that gets her to calm down.

The telephone call to Con Mackenzie was as traumatic as both Hilda and Nell had feared; Con had, predictably, erupted when told that her daughter had been caught with a Class A drug in her possession and that her bad behaviour earlier in the week was thought to be due to her being under the influence of the same drug. Eventually, after a number of angry accusations and allegations, Con had slammed the telephone down. After a quick break for a coffee, the Head had moved on to the next number on her list. She had just finished speaking to the parents of Victoria Morris – who, although shocked, had not sought to blame anyone, merely wanting to know how they could help their daughter – when the phone rang. This time it was Jock Mackenzie to say that they would be there first thing in the morning.

The following day was a Sunday, however it was unlike any previous Sunday at the Real Chalet School; although the rest of the School had not been told the reason for the searches the day before many had suspicions. When sixteen of the Middles had been isolated from the rest these suspicions had crystallised. Miss Annersley had decided that, for now, the School were not to be told, at least until after the Police had decided their course of action, therefore the morning was very frustrating for those in the Middle and Senior School that wanted more information or wanted to contacted siblings or friends among the sixteen.

The Police arrived just before 10am and set up in a small classroom over in the Main School. The Inspector had decided on this method, rather than insisting that all the girls be taken down to the Police Station, because he had two different objectives. The first, obviously, was to impress upon the girls just how much trouble they were in, however Inspector Curtis also had another goal - he needed to discover exactly where the girls had obtained the tablets. Being in a more familiar environment would, he hoped, mean that the girls would feel more able to confide.

Of the sixteen girls, seven were accompanied by their parents or guardians, they having managed, overnight, to reach the School. They included Con and Jock Mackenzie who had caught the 6.30 flight from Sydney, landing in Melbourne at 8am. The other nine girls, however, did not have their parents with them, this included all those from abroad, plus some of those who technically lived in the same country but were divided by the great distances that are Australia. For these girls Miss Annersley or Miss Wilson sat in with them.

The Police Inspector was extremely good, he began by impressing upon the girls the penalties they could face when only a little older, anything from a significant fine to up to seven years in prison. He also read through exactly what professions and jobs would be forever closed to them should they have a criminal record. This seemed to shock a number of girls who planned to be lawyers, teachers or any number of other professions where possession of drugs would bar them from entering. Eventually, after some time going through all the possible scenarios the Inspector announced that the girls would each be issued with an Official Police Warning. This would remain on their file until they were eighteen and if they were in trouble with the Police it would be referred to and acted upon. However if the girls remained out of trouble the files would be destroyed when they were of age.

Once this part of his work was complete he then gently questioned the girls about exactly how they had obtained the tablets. The results were not very helpful. The girls all said that the tablets had been obtained on-site, but they did not know who had supplied them. The girls would leave money in a set place and, later in the day, when they went there the money had gone and the tablets were there instead. The initial contact had been via a short text message to a number of those in the Middle School.

Afterwards, when all the girls had been seen and returned to the Boarding House, along with those parents visiting, Inspector Curtis joined Miss Annersley and Miss Wilson in the Head’s Study.

Curtis sighed, “I didn’t really expect much from the girls,” he confessed, “this sort of operation, the supplier or dealer, he’s not going to show his hand.”

“You think it’s a man then, Inspector?” Nell asked.

“Not necessarily,” Curtis replied, “could just as easily be a woman.” He sat back in his chair for a moment and took a deep breath. “I had the chance to read through the Staff list provided by you, Miss Annersley. Very comprehensive. You are aware that you have only the one member of Staff with a criminal record, I assume?”

“If you mean Cherry Elliott, then yes, Inspector, I’m well aware of Cherry’s record.”

“Yes, well, I pulled her file when I got back to the Station, she’s never been convicted of drug taking, didn’t even have any drug problems while in prison.”

Therefore she is not a suspect?”

Curtis shook his head, “I didn’t say that,” he replied, “Sometimes those without any convictions or interest are the ones running the business. And that’s what they look upon it as, a business. I’ll need to interview Elliott, Miss Annersley, would it be possible to do so in here?”

The head and Miss Wilson exchanged glances, Miss Annersley spoke, “It will be possible to have the interview here, Inspector, however I feel I should remind you that Cherry Elliott is a fully discharged prisoner. She served her time and her parole period, she is therefore as entitled to politeness as any other member of the public.”

Curtis looked across with a puzzled expression on his face.

“Miss Elliott, Inspector Curtis, she deserves that consideration.”

Curtis nodded, “Of course.”

 

#415:  Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 9:43 pm

Thanks Lesley, Just caught up on this. I liked the Inspector being reminded that it was Miss Elliot...

I'm just wondering it's a plot to get Cherry into trouble for the other cleaner getting dismissed last story though...

*eebles*

JackieJ

 

#416:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 9:46 pm

Laughing Love Hilda reminding the inspector how to address Cherry. I hope she ensures that Cherry is treated fairly. I suppose Con's reaction was as expected, are we to see her and Hilda/Nell?

 

#417:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 10:22 pm

Someone's being very clever *wibbles a bit*

I hope the Police won't get too hung up on Cherry - although I'll be interested to know if any of the CBB members of staff are going to be implicated here!

 

#418:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 10:30 pm

I hope this isn't a plot to frame Cherry! She's had a hard enough time lately!

 

#419:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Oct 12, 2005 11:38 pm

Thanks Lesley

Wonder how the school at large will react to the news - might one of the other girls have seen something and not realised it's significance?

Liz

 

#420:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Thu Oct 13, 2005 12:05 am

Poor Hilda - and Nell too - having to deal with a raging Con, who was so angry that she included all around her in the fallout!

Someone is being clever - and it doesn't have to be an adult staff member does it? If it's done via text messages, then there could be a chain of people, even older pupils involved. Always look on the bright side . . .

 

#421:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Thu Oct 13, 2005 2:49 am

...even when it's not very bright.


(shakes head at the folly of the youf of today)

 

#422:  Author: Rachel,  PostPosted: Thu Oct 13, 2005 9:02 am

I think the Inspector should look at Miss Annersley's file too - after all, she has also been inside and never convicted of a drugs offence (as far as we know!)

 

#423:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Oct 13, 2005 9:05 am

Rachel wrote:
I think the Inspector should look at Miss Annersley's file too - after all, she has also been inside and never convicted of a drugs offence (as far as we know!)


Shocked Shocked Laughing

Fab as ever, thanks Lesley!

 

#424:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Thu Oct 13, 2005 9:21 am

Thank you Lesley. Con's reaction was typical Con, will be interesting to see Cherry's reaction to being interviewed but the Inspector definatley should allow her record to cloud his judgement.

 

#425:  Author: Rachel,  PostPosted: Thu Oct 13, 2005 9:26 am

Nell wrote:
the Inspector definatley should allow her record to cloud his judgement.



WHAT?!?!??!

You subscribe to the "guilty until proven innocent" camp, do you? Wink

 

#426:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Thu Oct 13, 2005 9:29 am

JackieJ wrote:
I'm just wondering it's a plot to get Cherry into trouble for the other cleaner getting dismissed last story though...


Very quick to lay the blame there, Miss Jones! Could you be hiding something, possibly? Wink

 

#427:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Oct 13, 2005 12:08 pm

thanks Lesley. Also thinking it may be a plot to get Cherry in trouble. Hmmm.

And very typical Con, there.

 

#428:  Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Thu Oct 13, 2005 12:22 pm

Ann wrote:
JackieJ wrote:
I'm just wondering it's a plot to get Cherry into trouble for the other cleaner getting dismissed last story though...


Very quick to lay the blame there, Miss Jones! Could you be hiding something, possibly? Wink


Me... no... Just as someone trained in performance arts you pick up on undercurrents among other people... and I've always been very observant... Very Happy

 

#429:  Author: Katarzyna, Location: North West England PostPosted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 8:47 am

No Update! Crying or Very sad how am i meant to get on with my work without reading the RCS update first.

*Wails* Lesley, please!!!!

 

#430:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 8:54 am

My thoughts exactely...especially when she was here a minute ago...

 

#431:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 2:47 pm

Hilda Annersley herself went to find Cherry, feeling that the girl would find that far less threatening than if the Police were to suddenly appear outside her room. When the two women appeared back at the Head’s Study they had Robbie with them. Cherry walked into the room and looked across at the man seated at the small table,

“Hilda says you wanted to speak to me, Inspector?”

“Yes, er, Miss Elliott,” Curtis rose, “won’t you please sit down?” He looked across at the other two women and the little boy, “will you please excuse us, ladies?”

“I’d like Hilda to stay please, Inspector.” Cherry’s voice was firm, she looked across at the Head, “If that’s OK, Hilda?”

Miss Annersley smiled,” Of course.” She looked over at Nell Wilson who smiled, and lifted Robbie into her arms,

“Come on Trouble! Let’s go over to the cottage, find some toys to play with.”

“I not Trouble, Grandma Nell, I Robbie.”

The door closed on any further conversation. Curtis looked across at the two left, “Miss Elliott, I am Inspector Curtis, I am investigating the discovery of a Class A drug, namely Ecstasy, found in the possession of sixteen of the schoolgirls here on site. What do you know of this?”

At his words Cherry looked with some horror toward Hilda, Miss Annersley nodded her head in confirmation, “That’s why we’ve been working extra shifts? Why Karen asked if I could help out in the kitchen and Robbie could join the others in the Nursery yesterday?”

Hilda nodded, “Yes Cherry, we’ve only just discovered the problem, needed to keep the girls here on-site.”

Cherry nodded in turn, then turned to the Policeman, “And I’ll bet you’ve chosen to speak to me because I’ve got a record, right?”

Curtis concurred, “It is just a routine enquiry for now, Miss Elliott.”

“Yeah, but you just happened to need to speak to me, because I’ve done time.” Cherry sounded somewhat bitter, Hilda reached across and placed an a hand on Cherry’s arm, Cherry smiled slightly, “OK, I’ll answer your question. Until you mentioned it, I knew nothing about the fact that there was a drug problem at the School. And no, I didn’t give or sell the kids drugs. This is my home, my family, you think I’d wreck that just for a little easy money?”

“Would you be willing to allow a search of your belongings and yourself?”

Cherry shrugged, “Sure, I’ve got nothing to hide.”

 

#432:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash/Aberystwyth PostPosted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 2:59 pm

Please don't say someone's planted something... please

*worries*

Thank you, Lesley!

 

#433:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 3:09 pm

Gem now I have horrid thoughts stuck in my head...

Thank you Lesley.

 

#434:  Author: Robin, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 3:16 pm

*hushes Gem*
Don't say such things!

Thanks Lesley

 

#435:  Author: Katarzyna, Location: North West England PostPosted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 3:35 pm

Ah, finally, I can do some work now! Ooops, no time!

shall have to sit on the top of the cliff for the weekend and freeze Smile


oh, and thanks Lesley!

 

#436:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 3:41 pm

Oooo no - I feel a 'plant' coming on! (Hope it's ust one of the geranium sort, and not the type I think it is!)

Thanks Lesley Very Happy

 

#437:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 5:29 pm

The Inspector quickly arranged for some of his officers to join Cherry and Hilda over in the Domestic Staff House. Cherry’s rooms were near the top, a small flat consisting of a main room, bedroom, bathroom and small box room used by Robbie. Cherry let the searchers in and stood watching as the police officers proceeded to thoroughly search the entire place; opening drawers, lifting carpets, checking through clothing both in the wardrobes and drawers and in the laundry. Not content, the searchers then moved into Robbie’s room, dismantling toys and lifting the mattress. The bathroom was not forgotten as beneath the bath and in the cistern were both checked out.

Finally Inspector Curtis brought in one of the specially trained dogs and had it sniffing out for drugs, nothing was found. Eventually he had to admit defeat, he turned to Cherry,

“You were telling the truth, Miss Elliott, you have not had contact with drugs, my apologies for disturbing you.” He made to leave the room but a movement from the Head stopped him, “Yes Miss Annersley?”

Hilda said nothing, just allowed her gaze to move round the flat; while not pristine, no home with children can be, Cherry’s flat had been clean and tidy, the search had changed that. Cupboards and drawers upended, clothes, clean and soiled, on the floor, carpet up, beds with their mattresses on their sides. The Inspector followed Hilda’s gaze; after about a minute he sighed,

“Right, I’ll just get my people to tidy up in here then.”

“Thank you Inspector.”

That evening Cherry and Robbie spent over at Hilda and Nell’s cottage; Cherry was still upset,

“He’ll still suspect me, you know,” she said quietly, “the Police always do, they never believe that someone wants to go straight.”

“It doesn’t matter, Cherry,” Nell said patiently, “we don’t, and that’s all that’s important.” She turned as Hilda entered the room, she had just returned from the School, “Well, how’re things?”

The Head slipped into one of the armchairs and held her arms out as Robbie ran over for a cuddle, “The School is settled, at least as much as it can be,” she said, lifting Robbie onto her lap, “they are all exceptionally curious though, it’s not been easy trying to keep this news from them.”

“Are you going to keep it a secret?” Cherry was curious.

Hilda shook her head, “No, I’ll tell the School tomorrow at Assembly exactly what has been going on, and what has happened to the sixteen caught in possession.” She shook her head, “They are really just the unlucky ones,” she said sadly.

“You mean because they were caught?”

Nell answered, “Definitely, the problem has to be more widespread, just that those sixteen happened to have some when we searched. The dogs indicated the presence of drugs in all the Middle Houses and some of the Seniors. None in the Staff House or Domestic Staff House though, luckily.” Nell turned to her partner, “What about the sixteen? Will you be talking to them soon?”

“Yes, tomorrow morning,” Hilda replied, “By then almost all their parents or Guardians will be here.”

“And you don’t intend to leave it at just the Police Warning, do you?”

Hilda shook her head, “No Nell, the School must respond.”

The following morning saw a resumption of a normal week for the Real Chalet School; those staff who had not been around over the weekend taking over from those who had covered. The Teaching Staff that had been away were swiftly brought up-to-date in a quick Staff meeting held by Miss Annersley before breakfast. She enjoining them to pass on information to those Staff who lived off-site and who would be arriving after breakfast. In different areas the rest of the SMT were doing the same, passing on information to the Domestic, Admin and Security/Maintenance Staff. The Housemistresses were aware of the situation as their work meant they all lived on-site.

At Assembly that day Miss Annersley addressed the School; she informed them of the reason for the change in routine over the weekend and what had been discovered.

“The sixteen girls who were found to have these drugs in their possession,” she continued, “have all received an Official Warning from the Police, this Warning will be held in their databanks until the girls reach eighteen years. Should they commit any further offences before they reach eighteen they could be charged and dealt with in a Youth Court. Now I do not believe that those sixteen girls were the only ones at this School to have taken drugs; they have just been the unlucky few who have been caught. However, those of you that have had a lucky escape, be aware that you will not have any more chances. This School will be drug free.” She paused to take a breath before explaining further,

“Inspector Curtis has agreed that his drug squad can be called upon at any time if any of the Staff suspect that someone has taken drugs, that squad includes the dogs who, I’m reliably informed, are far harder to fool than any human. They can be here within twenty minutes. In addition there will be lectures for both the staff and girls about the dangers of drugs and how to recognise them. This will not happen again.”

She paused there prior to dismissing the girls to First Lesson, one of the girls stood, “Miss Annersley?”

“Yes Evadne?”

Evvy gulped slightly at the use of her full name, “Miss Annersley, may I see Janetta please?”

At her words a number of others, both sisters and friends of the sixteen also rose to add their pleas.

Miss Annersley shook her head, though her expression did soften slightly “Not at the moment, Evvy,” she said, “But I will arrange for all of you to see them before they leave.”

She dismissed the School then and walked swiftly across to the dormitory where the sixteen were still being held.

 

#438:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 6:27 pm

I loved Hilda shaming the Inspector into having his people tidy up after themselves in Cherry's flat.

But Wibble over the expulsions!!!! Shocked

 

#439:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 7:52 pm

I love Hilda. This is ahorrid thing for her to come across, and somehting that would just not have arisen in the book world. Definatly Modern Times.

 

#440:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 7:55 pm

Shocked

I do agree with Hilda but until they catch the nasty *expletive deleted* dealer, the problem is bound to recur.

*Wanders off wibbling but relieved that there was no plant in Cherry's flat*

PS. Thanks, Lesley. It is truly a Modern World you are portraying.

 

#441:  Author: Rachel,  PostPosted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 8:15 pm

Thank you oh mighty Lesley!

 

#442:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 10:54 pm

The Boarding House had not only been home to the sixteen girls for most of the weekend, it had also housed those parent who had managed to get to the School - in fact only two sets of parents had not reached the School yet - both from the UK and expected by lunchtime. The girls had not had a particularly happy weekend; although not completely confined to the House, they had not been allowed into the Main School or the other Houses. In addition they had had to face the police and their parents, neither of which was pleasant. They were now waiting for the Headmistress, and not one of the girls was looking forward to that experience.

Miss Annersley met with the girls and their parents in the Common Room on the Ground Floor; all was in silence as the girls and adults waited to hear what she had to say.

“I did not think I would ever have to be in this situation,” she began, speaking softly, “in a way I suppose that was very naïve of me, but I did feel that the pupils of this School had enough advantages and privileges that the lure of taking drugs would be somewhat blunted. That even children of twelve and fourteen would recognise the stupidity and danger of allowing a foreign substance to enter their bodies. Well, unfortunately, you have proven me wrong.” She paused for a few seconds, gazing at each of the young faces, they all seemed to be very upset, as though, suddenly, they realised just how badly they had transgressed. She took a breath and continued.

“Now, you have already been seen by the Police Inspector, I imagine that you all feel that he has given you a suitable punishment. Perhaps he has, however I feel that the School, that I, must do something more, not only so that you are aware of just how seriously I view your behaviour, but also so that the rest of the School may know it. Accordingly then, I am excluding all of you from this School for fourteen days. You will each be issued with School laptops and will be set work to do while at home, so that you do not fall behind in your schoolwork. I expect all of you to have left the premises before 6pm today.”

There was a stunned silence, when there were no questions forth-coming Miss Annersley nodded slightly and left the room. As she was walking across toward the Main School there was a shout from behind,

“Hilda! Hilda wait a minute!”

The Head turned, “Yes Con?” she said calmly.

“Yes Con? Is that all you have to say to me?” Con Mackenzie was not very happy, “For God’s sake, Hilda, how can you do this? To Janetta of all people!”

“You would prefer I brought in the full weight of the School policy, Con?” Miss Annersley said quickly, “That calls for permanent expulsion you know?”

“Couldn’t you have let her off? I mean she’s been through a lot, the Police Interview, then all Jock and I have had to say on the subject.”

“They’ve all been through the same, Con, I cannot treat any girl differently.”

“Not even when it’s me asking?”

“No Con, I’m sorry, not even then.”

Miss Annersley stared deep into Con Mackenzie’s eyes for some seconds, Con’s eyes still showed anger but, eventually, they also showed acceptance. She nodded slightly and spun on her heel before walking back to her daughter.

Back in her Study Miss Annersley informed Miss Wilson of the results of her visit to the sixteen then attempted to make a start on work for the day. She arranged for all those relatives or friends of the girls being excluded to see them at Break and had also spoken to Jennie Macleod about helping the girls to pack their belongings. The Head had specified two weeks deliberately. Two weeks time would be the Monday of Half Term, therefore the girls would be back for the second half of the term. Also, for those with some distance to travel, two weeks would be a reasonable time scale, she would have to ensure the girls were all watched closely on their return to ensure they were not suffering from ‘jet-lag’.

It was late in the morning that there was a sudden phone call, Miss Annersley answered it while reading an email,

“Hilda, get down to the Nursery now, there’s trouble,” the voice was that of Nancy Chester, and her tones were grim.

“What is it?”

“Some of the babies here in the Nursery are very ill, I’ve already called an ambulance, it’s on its way.”

Hilda Annersley was already on her feet, “Ill? How?”

The Nurse’s tones became even grimmer, “They’d all found what they thought were ‘sweeties’ in a bag in the Nursery playground,” she said, “I’ve looked, the bag is full of white tablets, I think it’s Ecstasy.”

Hilda dropped the receiver, “Robbie.” She ran from the Study.

 

#443:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash/Aberystwyth PostPosted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 11:05 pm

*SQUEAK*

LESLEY!!!

Come back here!!!!!

Please?

Crying or Very sadCrying or Very sadCrying or Very sadCrying or Very sad

 

#444:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Oct 14, 2005 11:12 pm

Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation

(sorry - but there are no words)

*adds to Gem's pleas for you to tell us more soon, Lesley*

Liz

 

#445:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 12:24 am

Oh, good Lord!! And I am going away at lunchtime!!!

Thought Hilda was wonderfully stron copng with Con - who should know better than to ask! (Am not very pleased with Con at the moment . . . .)

Please let Robbie be alright!!

 

#446:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 2:35 am

Ack!

There aren't even adequate emoticons for this one Exclamation Shocked

 

#447:  Author: Fatima, Location: The Middle East PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 4:53 am

Well, I never saw that coming!! Thanks Lesley, that was brilliant.

 

#448:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 5:41 am

Lesley! Shocked

*sits wibbling*

 

#449:  Author: Yvette, Location: Brisbane, Australia PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 5:59 am

Geez, catching up on everything after my computer crashed took some time!

Lesley, brilliant as ever!

But, to leave it there???? Shocked

 

#450:  Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 7:35 am

I suppose we should have seen that coming - but were the tablets put there to hide where they came from or as a threat?

They will all be all right, they will all be all right, they will all be all right.

 

#451:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 10:25 am

Monday morning in the State Prison saw Miss Shaw receiving a handover from her Staff. The weekend had been a quiet one in general. The women had behaved well and there had been no major upsets. There had, however, been some problems. The Senior Hospital Officer, Alan Marsh, was attempting to explain,

“Mason has been in Segregation ever since the attack happened, Friday morning,” he began, “she has severe swelling and bruising around her throat from where Butcher attempted to strangle her. The swelling is, however, easing, and she doesn‘t seem to have any ill effects from the injury.”

“Good,” Miss Shaw commented quickly.

The man sighed, “Not really,” he said, he looked over at the Senior Officer, “I know you said she was to be fully isolated from the rest of the prison. But there’s been a couple of incidents.”

“What incidents?”

“A number of the other inmates in Segregation have tried attacking her.” Marsh reported flatly, “Nothing major, Mason was able to fight them off, but my officers have seen kicks and blows, there’s also been a couple of incidents of spitting.”

“From the others in Segregation? But they know the rest of the prison population hold them in contempt, what on Earth have they been promised that they’d behave like this?”

“Unknown, Miss Shaw,” Marsh hesitated, “that’s not the worst though.”

“Go on.”

“Well, as instructed, we’ve kept all the other inmates away from Mason, even the Trustees, one of my Officers would collect all meals from the kitchen to prevent tampering on the way to the Unit. But one of the inmates in the Kitchen itself must have realised where the food was going. Evening meal on Saturday was curry and rice, Mason took a large spoonful and bit down on pieces of glass.”

“She did what?” Miss Shaw sounded as though she couldn’t believe it.

Marsh nodded, “Glass, not too big, so they’d not be detected, Mason badly cut the inside of her lip and gums, she was lucky though, didn’t badly injure her tongue. Since then I’ve instructed my officers to get Mason’s meals from the Officer’s Mess - no prisoners involved there, it’s outside contractors.”

“Was anything discovered about who’d placed the glass in the meal?”

Marsh shook his head, “Nothing, the inmates deny all knowledge, Prison Officers in the Kitchen saw nothing.”

Conversation with Mason was unenlightening, she had no idea who would be attacking her, no idea who was responsible, the Senior Officer lost patience with her,

“Mason someone is trying to have you badly hurt, if not killed. It’s only a matter of time before they get lucky. If you tell me why this is happening I might be able to do something.”

“Don’t know what you mean, Miss Shaw,” Mason’s voice was somewhat thick and slurred due to the swelling in her mouth, “no one’s trying to kill me, it’s just a joke. You don’t need to do anything.”

The Senior Officer gazed across at the inmate in some frustration, eventually she sighed slightly, “I think the best thing will be transferring you out of here, Mason,” she said eventually.

Mason shrugged, “Won’t make any difference,” she said without emotion.

Later that morning, after managing to get an idea of the atmosphere in the entire prison, Shaw walked across to the Isolation Wing; Butcher was still the only inhabitant.

“How’s she been?” Shaw nodded toward the CCTV pictures showing Butcher in her cell, lying on her bunk staring at the ceiling.

“She’s hardly said a word all weekend,” the Officer replied, “whenever any Officer has had to enter the cell she’s tried to assault them - I’ve had to add another few days to her sentence.”

Miss Shaw nodded, “What about when she’s brought meals by the inmates?”

“Hardly said a word, just thanked them. She’s eating well too. We’ve checked the meals going in and coming out, can’t see any messages being sent, but…”

“But it’s happening.” Shaw said grimly, “Alright, open up the cell.”

“You going in there? She might go for you,” the other Officer warned.

“Perhaps, but I don’t think so.”

When the cell door was opened Butcher tensed on the bunk, however when she saw it was the Senior Officer she relaxed slightly, “Is it Monday already?” she asked, “Doesn’t time fly?”

“It’s Monday,” Shaw confirmed, “and I hear you’ve added days to your sentence.”

Butcher shrugged, “What’s a few more days?”

“I’d have thought you would want to get back to the prison, check you haven’t lost command.” Shaw was deliberately goading her.

Butcher slowly turned her head so that she could stare directly into the Prison Officer’s eyes, when she spoke it was very quietly and with absolute certainty, “I’ve not lost anything, no one would dare attempt it.”

The two remained staring at each other for some seconds then Butcher spoke again. “I hear you had some problems down in the Seg wing? Someone hurt themselves did they?”

“We both know you were responsible for the attacks, Butcher,” Shaw didn’t feel any surprise for the fact that Butcher would know what had been happening elsewhere in the prison.

Butcher smiled, staring back at the ceiling once more she spoke quietly, “Prove it.”

 

#452:  Author: Rachel,  PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 10:32 am

Erm, Lesley, the prison scene update is great and all that, but








WHAT ABOUT THE NURSERY KIDS?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!

 

#453:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 10:34 am

Rachel wrote:
Erm, Lesley, the prison scene update is great and all that, but








WHAT ABOUT THE NURSERY KIDS?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!


What about them? *Innocence smiley - it was here a minute ago.* Twisted Evil

 

#454:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 10:37 am

Can't disagree with Rachel here!

Please, please, please tell us how the nursery kids are

*also worried about further repercussions that might have for the school and RCS industries*

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

#455:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 10:42 am

Can't fault Rachel's post Wink

 

#456:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 11:57 am

I can only echo Rachel, Liz and Patmac!

The thing I am wibbling about is how the tablets ended up in the nursery in the first place - surely not the nursery staff? Shocked

 

#457:  Author: JoW, Location: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 12:50 pm

Oh no, I go away for a few days and when I get back I find this!
WHAT ABOUT THE NURSERY KIDS?

 

#458:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash/Aberystwyth PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 1:19 pm

Erm.

Lesley?

Nursery kids?

 

#459:  Author: catherine, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 1:37 pm

*chuckles*

Lesley, you are truly wicked!!


I'm not going to ask you to tell us what's going on - long experience has taught me you'll update in your own sweet time, no matter how many people beg and plead! Wink

 

#460:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 1:38 pm

Well, three cheers for the fact that Cherry has been cleared. I can't believe Con's attitude, she must realise the dangers.

But, I think that this is another attempt to discredit the RCS, by someone who is truly evil.

BTW: this really lets Cherry out of the equation, she loves Robbie too much to risk harming him.

 

#461:  Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 1:44 pm

Jennie wrote
Quote:
BTW: this really lets Cherry out of the equation, she loves Robbie too much to risk harming him.

Well, obviously we know she didn't do it - but supposing she'd already collected Robbie from the Nursery? Or someone had sent a message taking him out of the garden?

 

#462:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 1:46 pm

Oh that's sooooo mean!!! Very Happy Wink


Are they going to be OK? Shocked Shocked Shocked
Pleeeeease Lesley, let us know Smile Neutral

 

#463:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 3:32 pm

*wibble*

I'm glad Hilda has only excluded the 16 temporarily. Hopefully that will be enough of a shock to teach them a lesson. But WIBBLE over the nursery kids! Lesley, that is a VERY mean twist!! Please let them all be okay!!!

 

#464:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 4:20 pm

The words from Nancy Chester caused an ice-cold hand to suddenly clench itself around Hilda Annersley’s heart. Dropping the telephone receiver she turned and ran from the Study, past startled Office Staff, seeing Rosalie Dene she slowed long enough to gasp out a few words,

“Get Nell, Nursery now!” before running on.

The corridors, luckily, were deserted, everyone in lessons, the Head reached the Nursery just as she could hear, in the distance, the sound of Ambulance sirens. She stopped just outside the Nursery, breathing fast. Before entering the room she leant against the wall and took two deep breaths; as though a cloak had fallen across her body her entire demeanour changed. Shoulders relaxed, breathing slowed, expression composed. Seconds later, when Miss Annersley opened the door and entered the Nursery it with her normal composed demeanour. She looked round, seeing Nurse Chester and Nursery Mistress over in one corner, there were three small figures on the floor, while a number of other young children were nearby. She moved across,

“Nancy, Carolyn, what’s the situation?” Her calm tones were the same as always, a fact of which she was pleasantly surprised, both Nancy and Carolyn looked round quickly and both visibly relaxed.

“Here Hilda,” Nancy moved slightly to show the scene, three children lay on the floor, Miss Annersley recognised the three, Gemma Carson, Anton Montebello and…Robbie Elliott! Hilda took a quick breath,

“What’s wrong with them?”

“All three have a very high temperature, 41 degrees and climbing, that is 106 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition they are all somewhat delirious and both Gemma and Robbie have shown evidence of fitting.”

Carolyn Phillips turned to the Head, “They were fine earlier, Hilda, they had a quick run out in the playground before lessons started, same as always, then, this morning has been perfectly normal, the kids were all boisterous, running around all over the place, but that’s normal for them. Then suddenly first one then all of them collapsed. I called Nancy straight away because it was obviously serious.”

Good, you did the right thing Carolyn.” Hilda projected all the warmth she could into her voice and saw the Nursery Mistress relax slightly,

At that moment there was a noise at the door and a Security Officer appeared with two Paramedics, they were quickly directed across to the three children, Nell Wilson appeared behind them, Hilda quickly brought her friend up to date.

“Carolyn, have any of the others taken any tablets?”

“I don’t think so, those three were together in one corner, if I’d only though to check…”

“You had no reason to, Carolyn, it wasn’t your fault.”

Nell had been listening to the paramedics, she came across, “They are admitting them all to hospital,” she said quickly, “can’t be certain what has caused this, but it looks as though it’s those tablets. Anton doesn’t seem quite as bad, he said they’d eaten five each, then Gemma and Robbie ate two more.”

“Anton is very good with his numbers,” Carolyn put in, “he may not be absolutely right, but he’s probably right that he ate less than the other two.” She visibly calmed herself, “I’ll have to contact their parents…”

“That’s my job, Carolyn,” Hilda said firmly, “You look after the rest of your class, they need you now.”

Carolyn Phillips nodded slightly then turned and walked across to where the other five members of her class were sitting, many of then crying and upset. As the two other women watched she smiled at the five and quickly got them moving across to the carpet for a special story. The carpet was at the other end of the area where the three were being worked on by the paramedics.

“Nell, find Cherry now please, she can go with the ambulance.”

Nell nodded and disappeared.

Hilda walked across and knelt beside Robbie, the little boy was only partially conscious, twisting from side to side, mumbling incoherently, sweat pouring from his body. She stoked his face, feeling helpless, unable to take his pain away, “Nancy?”

The Nurse knelt beside her, “I don’t know, Hilda, he and Gemma are worse than Anton, they’ve both fitted and their temperatures are still rising.”

One of the Paramedics crouched beside them, “We’ve got to get them to hospital straight away,” he said, “Are the parents around?”

“One is being found, she works on-site, I will contact the others,” Miss Annersley shook herself slightly, “Until they can be reached I have full parental rights as Headmistress, what can you tell me?”

“It looks like some sort of overdose, if it’s these tablets we will have to get them isolated quickly.”

Hilda looked at the bag the man held, it was a small leather bag, with a drawstring top, inside were dozens of small white tablets.

“I can save you the trouble,” she said somewhat woodenly, “they are the drug Ecstasy, we discovered some pupils had been taking them only this weekend. I will ask Inspector Curtis to contact the hospital to let you have all the details about their chemical composition.”

“Right ma’am,” the man paused, “I’ll just take a few tablets with me, to check,” he swiftly decanted some half a dozen into a specimen pot, labelled it in front of the two women, “You’ll need to keep the bag for the police I expect.”

“Definitely.”

There was the sound of another siren as a second ambulance appeared, at the same time running footsteps were heard and the door flung open. Cherry Elliott appeared, closely followed by Nell, they both ran over to where the children lay on the floor. Cherry fell to her knees beside her son,

“Robbie? Oh God Robbie, no!” She pulled him into her arms, “Robbie, Mummy’s here darling, can you hear me?”

There was no response, Robbie continued to thrash from side to side, Cherry tightened her grip. The Paramedic placed a hand on her shoulder,

“We’re taking him to hospital now, you’ll have to let me take him.”

“He’s my son, he’s not going anywhere without me.” Cherry’s face was determined, tears running freely down her cheeks. The Paramedic considered then nodded, “Very well Mrs Elliott, come with me.”

Behind her Hilda and Nell conversed quickly, “When I catch the bastard that’s done this…” Nell was standing with her fists clenched.

“Yes Nell, but later,” Hilda placed her arms around her friend, “for now they need us.” She pulled slightly so Nell’s head was resting on her shoulder, felt Nell relax into her and bent her head slightly to whisper in Nell’s ear, “Later, Nell, we’ll find them, I swear.”

Nell nodded, shuddered slightly then stood herself back up again, “I’ll go to the hospital, yes?”

“Yes Nell, if any intervention is required for Gemma or Anton you have Parental Rights as my Deputy - I’ll contact their parents and the Police, I’ll be along as soon as possible.”

She moved swiftly to intercept Cherry before she left, hugged her, “Robbie will be fine,” she said, wishing she believed herself, “Nell’s coming with you, I’ll join you as soon as possible.”

Cherry nodded, her face white, “Thanks Hilda,”

The Head watched in silence as the two lots of Paramedics left with the three children, Nancy Chester, Nell and Cherry went with them.

 

#465:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 4:23 pm

bawling Oh please let Robbie and Gemma be all right!!!! Please? Crying or Very sad

 

#466:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 4:31 pm

What a nightmare!

Thanks (not sure that's the right word!) Lesley

Liz

 

#467:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 4:48 pm

Well, I suppose that knowing the worst is better than wondering/wibbling about it. And there was never going to be a scare of that kind without there being something major wrong - this is RCS here guys!

I hope that Robbie and co are going to be alright - please Lesley, you can't kill off Robbie when Cherry has lost so much already. Surely. And what would happen to the school if one of the infants died because of this?

Thanks oh mistress of cliffs

 

#468:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 4:59 pm

Quote:
“He’s my son, he’s not going anywhere without me.” Cherry’s face was determined, tears running freely down her cheeks.


Tears running freely down my cheeks too Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad

Thankyou Lesley for the update - it's a relief to know what's going on, even if we aren't liking what we're hearing!

 

#469:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 7:15 pm

Lesley?

Please?


Make it all right?

*sob*

 

#470:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 7:58 pm

Rachel wrote:
Erm, Lesley, the prison scene update is great and all that, but








WHAT ABOUT THE NURSERY KIDS?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!


Rachel!!! I'm surprised at you! What has got into you, posting like that? Are you really cliff jumping? Very Happy Very Happy

Nice cliff Lesley! Twisted Evil

 

#471:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 8:27 pm

Cliff jumping? Rachel? Nah.

She's just standing on the edge with a megaphone. And possibly a SWAT team on jet-propelled broomsticks.

*sings Liz's Wibble song*

 

#472:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 8:47 pm

Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation

That'll teachme not to get behind on RCS!!

Lesley please make it ok and quickly!

 

#473:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 9:42 pm

B*gger!!!
I was hoping Lesley would have posted more by now!!!!

 

#474:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Sat Oct 15, 2005 9:47 pm

Not after a cliff like that Vikki!!! Twisted Evil Twisted Evil

 

#475:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 6:01 am

Pat wrote:
Not after a cliff like that Vikki!!! Twisted Evil Twisted Evil


Or perhaps not because it's not been written yet - as I've said before I'm often writing it just before I post. The next bit will be posted as soon as I've written it.

 

#476:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 6:34 am

Feeling pressured, Lesley?

We can be patient. Really. Very Happy

 

#477:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 7:48 am

Miss Annersley had time for a quick work with Mrs Phillips before returning to her Study; she swiftly made three phone calls, the first two to the parents of Gemma and Anton. Fortunately all the Kindergarten children were living in Australia and all the Nursery children were very local, none of them were boarders. The Head spoke to the mothers of both children, giving them as much information as she could. Predictably the women were very shocked, but both immediately made arrangements to travel to the Real Hospital. After coming of the phone to the two Miss Annersley sighed, recriminations, from both sets of parents, was likely later, once the children’s conditions were ascertained. She picked up the phone once more and was put through to Inspector Curtis.

Curtis, when told of the reason for Miss Annersley’s call, swore then said he would be there directly. Less than fifteen minutes later his car, and another Police van, drew up in the RCS car park. After quickly going through the details Miss Annersley went with him to the Nursery. By now it was lunchtime and the children were all in the dining room eating; Mrs Phillips was there, waiting however. When questioned she was able to give the Inspector some more detail,

“I arrived here at just before 8am to prepare, as normal,” Carolyn began, “one of the routine things that are always done is to check in the playground. Before the children are allowed access it must be checked for any rubbish or other items likely to hurt or injure the children. I checked it thoroughly, as always, there was nothing there.”

“Then what happened?”

“The children started arriving from about 8.20 onwards, they played inside then - and I’d checked inside just as thoroughly.”

“Would you have noticed if three of them had suddenly discovered something?”

Carolyn nodded, “Normally yes, even with eight of them you get to know when they are doing something ‘naughty’ - and all three of them would have known they were not supposed to eat ‘sweeties’ found in the playground. But after Assembly, when we all returned here, they had a quick ten minute run out in the garden, and during that time Letitia Watson fell over and grazed her knees, it took me some time to sooth her tears. Even though I didn’t leave the children alone it’s possible that I was too focused on Letitia to notice the other three.” She sounded guilty.

“This would have been at what time?”

Mrs Phillips thought for a moment, “About five past nine.”

“Hmmm, then we have a window of about an hour, from 8am to just after 9am, during which someone threw the bag into the playground.”

“Then you don’t think I was at fault?”

Curtis smiled, “No, Mrs Phillips, quite apart from anything else I know what it’s like trying to keep an eye on one three year old, trying to look after eight? I couldn’t do it. And kids will be kids, and unfortunately they are always curious. No, what we have is someone attempting to get rid of the evidence, there were more than fifty tablets in that bag. Just who it was and why they had to get rid of them at that time…”

Miss Annersley leant forwards, “Between 8am and 9am is the start of a number of shifts at the Real Chalet School,” she began, “those that do not work the weekends for example,”

“Yes, I’d thought of that,” Curtis replied, “and it’s possible that the first they heard of the discovery of drugs on site was after they’d got to work. They may have panicked, tried to get rid of their supply.” He turned to the woman beside him, “I need a list of all Staff that work Monday - Friday and live off-site, and a copy of the rotas for all sections. Maybe they’ll be something there, my people will start questioning. Is there a room we can use as an Incident Room?”

“Yes Inspector, I’ll arrange it.

 

#478:  Author: Liane, Location: Manchester England PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 7:54 am

Thanks Lesley.
Hope Robbie, Anton and Gemma will be OK>

 

#479:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 10:42 am

Thanks Lesley... hope the kiddies are ok Sad Smile

 

#480:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 11:22 am

Lesley, what a thing to have happen. I hope they find the scumbag soon.

Will continue to put the wibbling department on overtime.

 

#481:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 11:31 am

That afternoon, finally, Miss Annersley managed to leave the RCS and travel to the Hospital, leaving Ruth Derwent to cover for her. She spoke to the receptionist in A&E and was directed to the Children’s ITU. Just outside Nell Wilson was waiting,

“Quick update, Hilda,” the Deputy Head looked quite drawn and tired, “First, Anton isn’t too bad, he’s actually going to be moved to the Children’s Ward in the next ten minutes. His temperature has dropped almost back to normal and he’s awake and chatting to his mum and dad.”

“That’s a blessing,” Hilda’s voice was relieved, “What of Gemma and..and Robbie?”

Nell’s expression darkened slightly, “Not as good. Both of them are still only semi-conscious, and they both still have very high temperatures. The doctors are hoping that the effects will start to ease as the tablets themselves rarely last more than six hours, but they are concerned about the temperature and fitting.”

“How’s Cherry?”

“Holding up so far, but very upset, obviously. Gemma Carson’s parents are here, they are not happy.”

“Understandably, they have every right to expect that we will look after their child,” Hilda returned grimly, “Have you spoken to them?”

“Only very quickly, they said they’d wait for the arrival of the Headmistress.”

Miss Annersley smiled ruefully, “Well then, I’d better go and earn my salary.”

The conversation with Gemma Carson’s parents was not pleasant. Mrs Carson was obviously too upset to say very much, indeed, after introductions she excused herself to go and sit with her daughter’s once more. Mr Carson was a different matter,

“Call yourself Headmistress? We trusted you, trusted you to look after our little girl, she’s not yet four years old, our only child, and now we find she’s seriously ill because of drugs found at your School.”

“I assure you, Mr Carson, we are doing everything we can to find the person responsible.”

“Yeah? Well it’s not good enough Miss Annersley, and it’s not soon enough. You have completely destroyed any trust we had in your School and in yourself. And if, God Willing, Gemma manages to pull through, don’t think she’s setting foot back in that place again.”

“That is, of course, your choice, Mr Carson,” the Head’s voice remained soft, “I am so terribly sorry for what has happened,” she placed a hand on the angry man’s arm.

Mr Carson shook off the hand roughly, “I don’t want anything from you,” he hissed, “I don’t want your apologies, I don’t want any money. I want my little girl to be well again, I want my wife to be able to stop crying,” he gulped slightly and tears rose in his eyes, “and I want to get rid of this dread round my heart. Can you do that?”

Miss Annersley shook her head, her expression sympathetic.

“Then what the Hell good are you?” After the question the man turned and stormed off, re-entering ITU to sit next to his wife at their daughter’s bedside.

Hilda Annersley remained standing out in the corridor, breathing deeply. After some seconds she looked up to see Nell standing there,

“Rough?”

“It could have been better,” Miss Annersley said quietly. She took another breath, “Robbie?”

“This way,”

Nell led her friend into a different room within the ITU complex; there was just the one child bed. In the bed lay Robbie. He wore just a pair of shorts and had no coverings upon him, but even so he was sweating. A nurse was on one side of the bed, monitoring the drip slowly infusing into a vein in his right arm, that arm was heavily strapped to prevent him from dislodging the needle. A tube was also draining urine into a bag, and both is fluid intake and output were being closely measured.

Robbie was still not fully conscious, his eyes half open and his head moving swiftly from side to side. Cherry sat next to him, a cool flannel in her hand, she continually sponged him down to try and reduce his temperature. Talking to him all the time. She looked across as Hilda and Nell entered the room, Hilda walked swiftly across to place her arm around the girl,

“How is he?”

Cherry shook her head, “They still don’t know,” she said, “they’re slowly replacing his fluids, can’t do it fast as it could be dangerous, but his temperature is still high.”

Nell took over tepid sponging the little boy so Cherry could stay with the Head for a while,

“Has he had any more fits?”

Cherry nodded, “One, in the ambulance on the way here, but the paramedic didn’t seem to think it was very serious, apparently a lot of young children can have fits, especially if they have high temperatures. Oh Hilda!” At this she collapsed into Hilda’s comforting arms.

Hilda moved the pair of them across to sit beside Nell, just watching.

It was a long night; by common consent both Hilda and Nell remained at the hospital all night, Hilda contacting Ruth Derwent to update her every so often. Although they spent most of the time sat with Cherry; Hilda also remembered her responsibilities to her other two pupils and visited both Gemma and Anton. Her visits to Gemma were only to the door, to look through the window, the Carsons making it perfectly clear that they didn’t want her there. However her visit to Anton Montebello was somewhat happier, the Montebello family, of Italian origin, were loud and exuberant, little Anton, sat up in bed, was obviously getting better, indeed his doctor had said he could go home the following day. Mrs Montebello had taken Miss Annersley’s head in her hands and loudly kissed both cheeks. Mr Montebello had waved her apologies aside saying that, at the same age, all of Anton’s four brothers and two sisters had been little demons! Miss Annersley had felt greatly warmed by her encounter with the Montebello family.

Early the following morning, just as the temperature within the hospital was dropping, the Consultant appeared. He examined Robbie, who now seemed to be sleeping peacefully and spoke to the Nurse that had been ‘specialing’ him all night. He then indicated that he wanted to speak with Cherry. She, Hilda and Nell all walked over to the other side of the room,

“Well Ms Elliott, it seems that young Robbie has been a very lucky little boy,” he said, smiling.

Cherry looked over, tiredness slowing her thought processes, “You mean…?”

“I mean that his temperature has stabilised, he’s stopped the excessive sweating and his fluid levels are back to normal. I think, when he wakes, he’ll be on his way back to normal. Both he and Gemma Carson next door have been very lucky…”

Anything more he had to say was interrupted by Cherry suddenly flinging her arms around him, “Thank you, doctor!”

That's all for today everyone - on my way to my parents soon and will be staying overnight. Anyone interested in why should take note of today's date and the fact that I had a new nephew born yesterday!

Last edited by Lesley on Mon Oct 17, 2005 4:52 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#482:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 11:39 am

Thank goodness Robbie's going to be all right.

Lesley, it's high time your parents had broadband so you can sit and yibble with them whilst writing more RCS.

Give our love to Alfie.

 

#483:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 12:20 pm

Thanks Lesley, glad Robbie is OK - give Alfie a cuddle from me too!

 

#484:  Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 12:21 pm

I can't say it better than Jennie
Quote:
Thank goodness Robbie's going to be all right.

 

#485:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 12:41 pm

I have just caught up on a week's worth of this, Lesley, as you know, and have been totally absorbed. I am glad I missed all the cliffs until this latest, but you have moved me considerably.

The grief it is causing Hilda has moved me specially, and you have written that superbly as always. I hope she and Nell manage to carry out the promise she made to Nell - that they would find them and....make them pay??? Murder would be too simple.

Thank you - and am sending a *cuddle* for Alfie.

 

#486:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash/Aberystwyth PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 2:00 pm

Just caught up - thank you, Lesley!! Poor Hilda, although I can totally blame the parents for being angry. They're just angry at the wrong person at the moment... Sad

Have a good weekend - and happy birthday Very Happy Wink

 

#487:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 3:30 pm

Thank you Lesley!!!


Hope you're having a great birthday.
Thank goodness the kiddies will get better, and I hope little Gemma's parents will calm down and see reason now that she's on the mend!

 

#488:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 6:10 pm

Phew, thank you for that Lesley, mainly for the quick recover of the children, Laughing but also for exonerating me! Wink

Still no idea who the supplier is though...millions of guesses abound in my brain, but nothing close to real guess.

Hope you have a great day, made specialer by Alfie.

 

#489:  Author: Rosie, Location: Huntingdonshire/Bangor PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 7:01 pm

Have finally caught up!

Amazing as ever Lesley. Not helping me get any of my degree-related reading done, but frankly that is boring anyway.

Smile

 

#490:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 7:20 pm

Thank you Lesley. I do know you often write and post - honestly! Wink Just couldn't resist the stirring!

Enjoy yourself Lesley, both for your birthday and the baby.

Last edited by Pat on Sun Oct 16, 2005 7:43 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#491:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 7:23 pm

Thank goodness Exclamation

Still worried about where it came from, though -- and who's responsible, and what other nefarious plans might be afoot. After all, the dogs had been through everything over the weekend, so presumably the pills weren't on site ....
*suspects evil person chose playground on purpose*

*hopes Gemma's parents don't cause serious problems*

Happy Birthday & Happy Baby Worshiping, Lesley!

 

#492:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 9:30 pm

Thanks Lesley

Enjoy your birthday and Baby Alfie!

 

#493:  Author: Liane, Location: Manchester England PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 10:16 pm

Thank you for the update Lesley, hop Gemma will be ok. Poor Hilda.
Happy Birthday and congrats on the new nephew!

 

#494:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 10:26 pm

Thank you Lesley

Liz

 

#495:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Sun Oct 16, 2005 10:54 pm

Actually read this last night but didn't have time to comment. Riveting reading Lesley!!

Have no idea just who this low-life is, but entirely share Nell's murderous thoughts!! Poor Hilda - Gemma's parents are not angry with her as her, but she is the authority figure who they can hit out at in their fear and pain. And thank goodness that Robbie is alright!!

Congratulations on your new nephew and happy birthday, Auntie Lesley!

 

#496:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Mon Oct 17, 2005 2:20 am

So glad I didn't have time to log on all weekend. At least I know the babies will be OK and didn't have to wait for Lesley's delaying tactics Twisted Evil .

No ideas and wondering who the scummy person is that chucked the bag in the playground though.

Enjoy your birthday and baby worship Lesley!

 

#497:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Oct 17, 2005 11:37 am

Miss Di has said it all!

Have fun with baby Alfie and the family.

 

#498:  Author: pim, Location: Helmel Hampster PostPosted: Mon Oct 17, 2005 5:03 pm

Mneurrrrrgwah I think sums it up having just caught up on the last 4 pages - just very glad I decided not to play catch up at work!!!

Thank you Lesley - hope you have a lovely time with baby Alfie *g*

 

#499:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Oct 17, 2005 10:42 pm

Alfie is gorgeous! And I sat and cuddled him for two hours today! Laughing

When Miss Annersley and Miss Wilson returned to their cottage later that morning it was with the knowledge that the Consultant had spoken truly; by the time they had left the hospital Robbie had roused enough to have a drink of water and to recognise Cherry before falling asleep again. It was likely that he would have to be in hospital for a few days but he would recover fully. The two women left Cherry with her son and returned to the RCS for the start of the day.

Tuesday morning therefore saw them both attending breakfast as normal with very few clues to point to the fact that neither of them had slept the previous night. After announcing the condition of the three children at Assembly, they both moved straight into their normal routine. The Head saw Miss Derwent for a report on all that had happened overnight and then reciprocated with details about the three children. Ruth had rejoiced along with Miss Annersley that all three children were now recovering and commiserated about Gemma Carson’s parents,

“Although I can fully understand why they have that attitude,” Ruth concluded, “it’s still a shame they had to take it out on you, Hilda. It was hardly your fault!”

“Me, personally, no Ruth, of course not,” the Head agreed, “but as Headmistress everything on-site is my responsibility.” She sighed, then looked across at the Senior Mistress once more, “Has Inspector Curtis been able to discover anything more?”

Ruth shook her head, “Nothing yet,” she replied, “He’ll be here again before ten, will want to speak to you, he said. Yesterday he and his officers spent the entire afternoon and part of the evening questioning people, trying to pinpoint exactly where everyone was between eight and nine yesterday morning. Karen’s had three or four of her people up in arms about it, they thought he was accusing them, and I know some of the Contractors were unhappy - Mollie’s been on the phone trying to soothe ruffled feathers.”

“I see, well I think a meeting of the SMT should be scheduled for this afternoon, I can pass on any further information then. I’m sorry for the hurt feelings, but I think we all want to ensure we catch this person. Quite apart from the fact they were supplying drugs to the girls, to then place a bag of drugs in the Nursery playground, a totally evil individual.”

Inspector Curtis, when he arrived a little later that morning, was unable to give the Head a great deal more information. His men had thoroughly searched the Nursery and Nursery Playground, nothing further was found. Forensic Officers had investigated the leather bag, so far without any success, it was a fairly inexpensive and common bag sold in hundreds of shops in the local area. The tablets were confirmed as having the exact chemical composition as the ones discovered in the Middle Boarding Houses, proving them to be of the same batch.

Miss Annersley listened to all of this without comment, when the Policeman had finished she looked across, “What else do you need to help, Mr Curtis?”

“A complete search of the Grounds and buildings again, Miss Annersley, and this time not just the School or Boarding Houses, everywhere, using the dogs of course, to try and find any traces.”

“Do you think this person will still have supplies on-site?”

“No, but the dogs may be able to detect where they were stored.”

“Very well. Anything else?”

“I think you and we are doing all we can, Miss Annersley. I’m liasing with John Coates, he doesn’t have many CCTV cameras inside the School, but those few there are have all got video footage. Some of my men are checking through that in the hopes of finding something. As there’s nothing near the area we want though it’ll be difficult. We’ll keep questioning people though, maybe something will turn up.”

…

The day wore on, the first lesson after lunch was a free period for many of the SMT and Miss Annersley arranged a meeting to keep all up-to-date. Afterwards Nell Wilson returned to her own Study hoping to complete reading through some application forms. Following the discussion at the Department Head meeting the week before she had instructed the HR Manager to place adverts in the relevant Education magazines asking for applicant to the post of Chemistry Mistress, there had already been a number of replies. She was doomed not to read them however as the telephone rang,

“Nell Wilson, Deputy Head, Real Chalet School speaking,”

“Hello Nell, it’s Ian, how did your presentation go?”

“Ian,” Nell smiled, recognising Ian French’s voice, “it went well, thanks to you, and the laptop is still intact I’m pleased to say! What can I do for you?”

“Quick query really, heard from a friend of mine in the Drug Squad about problems affecting your School, wondered if there was anything I could do to help?”

“What had you heard?” Nell was slightly wary.

“That drugs had been discovered on-site and three little ones had accidentally overdosed.” Ian said quickly, “Don’t worry, it’s not public knowledge, the friend told me because he knew I’d got an ex-client here and thought I might be able to help.”

“Oh, well it’s kind of you, Ian, but I don’t think there are any legal complications as yet, though it is possible in the future. Did the friend tell you who the three were?”

“No, is it important?”

“Definitely, one of them was Robbie Elliott.”

“Damn, well the one thing I wondered is definitely not the case then, no way Cherry would put her own son at risk. Well let me know if you need a lawyer won’t you? I know you have a corporate one but remember us little ones too!”

“Little ones?” Nell’s voice was warmly sarcastic, “With the fees you charge I think we can award you the term shark here!”

“I’m wounded, Nell,” Ian returned, his voice full of amusement, “as though my fees were anything other tha…am I boring you here?” This last as, in the midst of his speech, Nell had been unable to stifle a rather large yawn!

“Oh I’m sorry, Ian, I didn’t get any sleep last night, having problems keeping my eyes open.”

“You need more exercise,” Ian said quickly, “I thought you and Hilda were out running each morning?”

“We are normally, but Hilda injured her ankle and I…” Nell stopped trying to explain,

“You don’t like running alone?”

“Not really,” the Deputy Head confessed, “I need a running partner.”

“Well, if you let me into your Grounds early morning I’ll run with you,” the lawyer returned, “I’ve been trying to go for runs around here but keep getting distracted.”

Nell thought for a moment, “Alright,” she said, “I’ll see you first thing tomorrow.”

 

#500:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Oct 17, 2005 10:56 pm

Thanks Lesley Very Happy

Glad Nell will have a running partner while Hilda is still recovering. Hope Ian can help in other ways too.

Liz

 

#501:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Mon Oct 17, 2005 11:02 pm

Wow 3 pages to catch up on. Glad I missed the massive cliff.

Thanks Lesley!

 

#502:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Mon Oct 17, 2005 11:30 pm

Thank you Lesley.
The lack of progress must be both frustrating and worrying.

Interesting that the news may be about to seep out - they are very lucky that it hasn't hit the press already - or will Gemma's parents make sure that it does? Hmmm...

 

#503:  Author: Rachel,  PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 8:54 am

Does Ian have designs on the deputy head?!?

 

#504:  Author: Robin, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 9:18 am

Rachel wrote:
Does Ian have designs on the deputy head?!?


Just what I was wondering!
Also glad I missed the cliff, and that the children are all going to be ok.

thanks Lesley

 

#505:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 9:54 am

Robin wrote:
Rachel wrote:
Does Ian have designs on the deputy head?!?


Just what I was wondering!


And me...

Thank you Lesley!

 

#506:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 10:41 am

Wow, he did seem very eager to be her running partner, didn't he?

 

#507:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 10:55 am

*g* Thanks Lesley.

 

#508:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 11:14 am

Oooh very interesting. Im glad all the children are ok *ponders who might be responsible* Thanks Lesley

 

#509:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 12:13 pm

Yes, the thought of Ian and Nell crossed my mind as well!

 

#510:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 12:34 pm

Ally wrote:
*ponders who might be responsible*

then straight after ...
Carolyn P wrote:
Yes, the thought of Ian and Nell crossed my mind as well!

Carolyn how could you suspect Nell of such a thing!!! Wink

Liz

 

#511:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 12:56 pm

*giggles at Liz* Laughing

I spy a potential romance! Very Happy

Thankyou Lesley Smile

 

#512:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 12:57 pm

My mind also is wandering thataway, folks! Laughing I've heard it called some things, but .....*running partner* Question

Thanks, Lesley

 

#513:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 1:41 pm

LizB wrote:
Ally wrote:
*ponders who might be responsible*

then straight after ...
Carolyn P wrote:
Yes, the thought of Ian and Nell crossed my mind as well!

Carolyn how could you suspect Nell of such a thing!!! Wink

Liz


Especially cos that then made me think I was getting the blame!!!

 

#514:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 2:17 pm

Nell wrote:
LizB wrote:
Ally wrote:
*ponders who might be responsible*

then straight after ...
Carolyn P wrote:
Yes, the thought of Ian and Nell crossed my mind as well!

Carolyn how could you suspect Nell of such a thing!!! Wink

Liz


Especially cos that then made me think I was getting the blame!!!



Guilty conscience Nellikins? Wink

Thank you Lesley! May we have some more soon please hunny?

 

#515:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 2:22 pm

Vikki wrote:
Nell wrote:
Especially cos that then made me think I was getting the blame!!!


Guilty conscience Nellikins? Wink


No more so than normal! A lifetime of being blamed for everything...

 

#516:  Author: Rosie, Location: Huntingdonshire/Bangor PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 3:49 pm

Bechod. *pats the Nell*

Cheers Lesley!!

 

#517:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 4:24 pm

thanks lesley. Have finally caught up with this and so much has happened!

Glad Robbie et al are safe and sound, and also wondering about a proper romance!

 

#518:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 6:01 pm

Wednesday saw a meeting in the Governor's Office.

“Well let’s have your report, Geri,” Mrs Knight smiled slightly across her desk at her Second-in-Command, Miss Shaw; although it was some time since she herself had last been an officer on the wing she could recognise competence. Geri Shaw had an instinctive awareness of the mood of the prison and if there was trouble brewing, she also managed the almost impossible task of being well-respected by both the Inmates and the Prison Officers. Doreen Knight, coming up to her sixtieth birthday in only six months, was very thankful that, for her final two years, she had had someone like Geri Shaw to rely upon.

Miss Shaw sighed, “There has been another attempt to injure Mason,” she said reluctantly, “This time one of the Trustees attempted to attack her with a knife. I’d ordered that she have no contact with trustees but this was during the exercise period, when all the Segregation prisoners were being taken to the exercise yard.”

“I see, was Mason hurt?”

“No, the Officers managed to break up the fight very quickly. The other inmate has been stripped of their Trustee status and given time in Solitary. But I don’t feel that she was really to blame.”

“You think it was done on Butcher’s orders?”

Geri Shaw nodded, “I do, it’s the only thing to explain why a Trustee of eight months, with only four months of her sentence to serve, would act like that.”

“Butcher has that much influence? I never realised.” There was a pause before the Governor continued, “Alright Geri, I know you’ve said as much on a number of occasions.”

“She has a huge amount of influence, Doreen,” Geri replied, “and even isolated in Solitary she is still able to exert that influence.”

Mrs Knight was silent for a time, when she looked across at her 2-I-C it was with a very grave face, “This prison can have only one Governor, Geri. If Butcher is exerting that kind of influence, perhaps she should no longer be here. It will be fairly easy to arrange a transfer to another prison. Can you prove Butcher’s involvement?”

“By inference only,” Geri Shaw replied, “none of the other inmates are speaking and Mason herself refuses to say why she is being attacked. The Officers in Solitary have been unable to discover how she is sending messages, but they are being sent, nonetheless. As for transferring her, I don’t know whether that would stop the problem, the inmates would find some way of getting messages from another prison, they always do.”

“Not if she is transferred to a Category A establishment, Geri,“ Knight replied, she held up a hand, “I know, you argued against it after the siege, and I went along with your wishes then. After all, without her actions we may have lost all the hostages, we’d certainly have lost you. But she is attempting to kill another inmate, she is coercing others to do the same. I don’t want to have to wait until she is successful and Mason is dead before making this decision.” The Governor paused a moment then added gently, “I know you like her, feel she is good for the rest of the women, but you must agree her current actions are not acceptable?”

Miss Shaw thought for a time, then, “Yes, I like her,” she admitted, “I’m not blind to her faults, I know what she is, I know she can never and will never be fit for release. But she is good for the women in here, she is fanatically loyal to them. She returned in the siege because of the women you know? Not because of the hostages, certainly not because of me…”

“I think you do yourself a disservice, Geri, Butcher rescued you.”

“Yes, but had Sullivan only been holding prison officers? Had she been acting alone? Butcher would not have interfered.”

“Perhaps,” Mrs Knight acknowledged, “but the situation now cannot be allowed to continue. I will make arrangements for Butcher to be reclassified and transferred, her latest action attacking Mason last Friday and her attitude in the five days since will be enough evidence.”

“Give me some time Doreen, to see if I can stop this.”

“It’s already been five days, Geri, Mason has been attacked at least three times.”

“I know, give me another 24 hours.”

Mrs Knight sat back in her chair, “Alright, twenty-four hours it is, but no longer.”

“Thanks Doreen.” Miss Shaw rose, preparing to leave.

“One last thing, Geri,” the Governor’s voice stopped her, “Have you changed your mind about the job? If you agree you’ll be offered it, no hassle.”

Miss Shaw shook her head, “No, Doreen, thanks all the same. It’s not the right post for me.”

“Well if you’re sure?” Doreen Knight sighed, “A great pity, alright, I tell the Authorities they’ll have to advertise, it’ll probably be someone on internal trawl. I’ll speak to you again tomorrow, Geri.”

 

#519:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 6:30 pm

Thank you Lesley!

I feel so sorry for Geri and Mrs Knight trying to sort this situation out!

 

#520:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 7:31 pm

That is a tough situation, I can see why she wants to reclassify her, and I cannot see what they can do about it. I presume Geri is refusing to apply for promortion to Govenor?

Now wondering.....oh.....off to reread previous RCs I think. Probably way on the wrong track here.

 

#521:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 8:10 pm

Has Miss Shaw got Hilda in mind as an intermediary, as indeed she was used once before - or has she got some other scheme up her sleeve? She clearly feels she can do something about it. Would Butcher listen to anybody in her present mood? Crying or Very sad

Thanks, Lesley.

 

#522:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 11:04 pm

Wednesday at the Real Chalet School had been somewhat fraught. It had started well, with news from the Hospital being very good. Anton had been released from the ward and his parents had already contacted Miss Annersley to say he would be back to Nursery the following Monday. Both Robbie and Gemma were much improved; they were now both awake and sitting up in bed, though inclined to be somewhat tearful and upset. The Consultant had assured both Cherry and the Carsons that this was perfectly normal and that it would ease in the next day or two. He fully expected both of them to be ready for discharge by the weekend.

Hilda and Nell, both of whom had spent most of the previous evening with Cherry at the hospital, had been very pleased to hear the news, they had both returned to their cottage a little after ten Tuesday evening and had both slept for over eight hours. Nell Wilson had gone out for her run, accompanied by Ian French and, consequently, felt a great deal better when starting School. The Head had not, unfortunately, been able to join them as her ankle was still sore, however she had been pleased to see the lawyer again and had spent some time chatting with him over a cup of coffee when he and Nell had returned.

Problems began after lessons had begun that morning, firstly the Inspector had appeared and given an update into the search for the drug supplier - it had not been a very hopeful update. Curtis reported that his men had not turned up any leads, they had questioned many of the Staff, scanned through a number of different tapes of CCTV footage and searched thoroughly. Nothing had been found. He assured the head that his people would continue to look, but, even to himself, sounded dispirited and subdued.

Late morning brought a fairly significant shock, one of the Staff had a free period and had been flicking though the channels on the TV in the Staff Room, she called down to the Head’s Study suggesting that Miss Annersley might want to see this. A short time later the head was in the Staff Room watching one of the 24hour news channels, on it was an interview with a man she recognised immediately.

“So tell me, Mr Carson, exactly why is your daughter in the ITU ward of this hospital?”

“Because of the negligence and laxity of the School where, until two days ago, Gemma used to attend Nursery.”

“And this School is?”

“The Real Chalet School,” Carson replied, “Gemma was admitted to hospital suffering from an accidental drug overdose. The drugs were thrown into the kids’ playground by a drug dealer.”

“I see, and do you blame the teacher in charge of the Nursery?”

“Hell no, wasn’t her fault, I blame the Headmistress, Miss Annersley, she was aware the School had a drug problem but told no one. Didn’t think parents had a right to know about something this important. She’s responsible for this.”

The interview stopped there and the picture moved back to the Studio, a reporter sat behind a desk and continued, “This reporter has unearthed a number of concerns about this School and Headmistress. Last term she was one of those accused of cheating at Monash University and last year, actually spent a week in prison accused of murder. For both of those incidents she was fully exonerated, but this reporter asks, has she gone too far this time?”

 

#523:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Tue Oct 18, 2005 11:20 pm

Oh, Lor'!! Had a nasty feeling that this might be about to happen - and what does the reporter mean "gone too far"?!!!!

"running partner?!" Hmmm.....

Splendid, Lesley!

 

#524:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 12:39 am

*wails*

Noooo!!! Poor Hilda!!!!

 

#525:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 1:14 am

Hmmm. When you think about it the way the reporter obviously is, Miss A really does have a bad reputation.


Interesting Lesley. Look forward to seeing how you fix this one!



(Refusing to wibble as Lesley always makes it come right in the end)

 

#526:  Author: Caroline OSullivan, Location: Reading, Berkshire, UK PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 6:49 am

Poor Hilda Crying or Very sad I hope Ian French will be able to help.
Very glad the Carsons aren't blaming Carolyn.

Going back to the prison scenes, who/what are trustees? It doesn't sound like they're the sort of trustees I've heard of before (eg of charity/company).

Thanks Lesley Very Happy

 

#527:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 8:19 am

Poor, poor Hilda - but she must have been aware this could happen. She has already commented that as the Head she takes the responsibility if things go wrong. *The loneliness of leadership.*

Nell got any plans for murder here, Lesley? Because I'm quite sure she won't stand by quietly and watch Hilda vilified like this.

Thank you - I think. Crying or Very sad

 

#528:  Author: Rachel,  PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 8:45 am

Laughing Laughing Laughing

Excellent as ever Lesley! Must admit I sniggered at the line about how Nell went running

Quote:
accompanied by Ian French and, consequently, felt a great deal better when starting School.

 

#529:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 9:14 am

Thanks Lesley, v interested to find out how Hilda deals with all this negative publicity.

 

#530:  Author: Robin, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 9:30 am

*gulp*

poor Hilda. Although when you see it all together like that, her record does look a bit murky!

 

#531:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 9:31 am

Thank you Lesley.

Rachel you have now managed to fill my mind with images that I'd rather not have...

Last edited by Nell on Wed Oct 19, 2005 9:59 am; edited 1 time in total

 

#532:  Author: Rachel,  PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 9:35 am

Nell -



<snigger>

 

#533:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 9:59 am

Thank you!

 

#534:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 11:09 am

Shocked

Poor Hilly, she really isn't having an easy time.


*pokes evil Mr Carson* Grrr....


Thanks Lesley!

 

#535:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 12:50 pm

MaryR wrote:
Has Miss Shaw got Hilda in mind as an intermediary, as indeed she was used once before

Oh I hope not - it would be like the school asking Joey to help with their problem back in the EBD days! I have every faith that Geri will be able to deal with Butcher, although I'm looking forward to finding out how.

So will reporters be allowed to visit the RCS or will John Coates & co keep them out?

Thanks Lesley Very Happy

Liz

 

#536:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 1:14 pm

There was silence after the reporter had finished speaking; Julie Berne switched the TV off and sat back, looking across at the Head.

Miss Annersley took a deep breath and sighed, “Thanks Julie, I did need to see that.”

“What are you going to do, Hilda?”

Miss Annersley smiled somewhat ruefully, “What am I going to do?” she repeated, “I’m going to return to my Study and await all the telephone calls. I’ll see you at lunch.”

Back in her Study the Head had barely sat down before the telephone rang. She lifted the receiver, “Hello Madge,”

“How did you know it was me?” The MD of RC Industries sounded surprised.

“Because I just knew that you would be contacting me as soon as that news programme had aired,” Miss Annersley sounded almost amused.

“Oh, well, yes, Hilda, that’s why I’m calling. I know you have control there, but can you give me an update? We’re sure to get queries here as well.”

The Head gave a concise summary of the last week, after which Madge, slightly mollified, rang off after offering the services of both Kate Mason, the RCS lawyer and their new PR advisor.

The rest of the morning was spent answering the telephone and speaking to any number of anxious and concerned parents. By the time the Deputy Head knocked on the connecting door even the Head’s patience was starting to wear thin.

“Hello Nell, I sincerely hope you’ve had a better morning than I?”

Nell Wilson moved across to stand just behind Miss Annersley’s chair, she placed a hand on a slim shoulder, “I heard, Julie Berne caught me before last lesson. How are you?”

“Tired, Nell,” Miss Annersley smiled slightly, “Tired of having to explain myself to so many worried parents, of having to reassure Madge that everything is under control, of having to keep replying ‘no comment’ to the many members of the press that have called wanting a statement,“ she laughed slightly, “I don’t think we’re in Kansas anymore Toto!” she quoted with a grin.

Miss Wilson didn’t reciprocate, instead her expression darkened, “I could kill that Carson fellow, he had no right talking to that reporter like that.”

“He was angry and frightened, Nell, he had seen his daughter seriously ill. In the circumstances it’s understandable.”

“But to blame you personally, for something that’s not your fault?” Nell fumed, “I mean, you’ve done all possible to try and ensure there were no drugs in the School. It’s just so damned unfair.”

“It’s the price I pay for the title Headmistress, Nell, I’m the target when things go wrong.”

“If you’re telling me you like having this happen Hilda I’ll not believe it.”

“Of course I don’t like it, especially as that reporter managed to dig up information about my stay in prison - I imagine I’m going to have to explain that to a large number of people. But I can accept it, even while not liking it.”

“Fine, well you go on accepting it, Hilda,” Nell said grimly, “For myself, I’m hoping to meet up with both Carson and that reporter, so I can show them exactly how I feel with a punch to the face!”

The Head laughed, reaching up she pulled Nell Wilson’s head down to her own and quickly kissed her cheek, “Thank you Nell, for protecting me.”

“Well…” Nell sounded embarrassed.

Hilda continued, “But please don’t use your fist, remember what happened last time!”

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Oct 19, 2005 1:25 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#537:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 1:22 pm

Laughing at Hilda's reminder!

Thanks Lesley

 

#538:  Author: Karry,  PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 3:27 pm

Caroline wrote
Quote:
Going back to the prison scenes, who/what are trustees? It doesn't sound like they're the sort of trustees I've heard of before (eg of charity/company).


i think they are more like the *trusted* prisoners, who are coming close to release and given jobs around the prison.

 

#539:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 5:27 pm

Thanks Lesley - Glad that the school has the resources of RCS industries to back them up.

Liz

 

#540:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 8:10 pm

See my quote above about Nell being ready to do murder!! Embarassed

Poor Hilda is not going to find this disappearing anytime soon, is she? Crying or Very sad Her wry quote from Wizard of Oz made me wince for her.

Thank you, Lesley.

 

#541:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 9:15 pm

Thank you Lesley!

*off to hug Hilda tight*

 

#542:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 9:49 pm

At the Prison the Senior Officer had spent some time speaking with a number of the inmates; it had availed her nothing. Even speaking with the ex-Trustee, now ordinary prisoner Angela Malam was unhelpful. Malam had refused to give any answer when asked why she had sacrificed a Trustee position, one that meant she had far more in the way of privileges and was trusted to perform certain tasks. Instead, after her aborted attempt to stab Mason, she now had five days in Solitary, had lost her Trustee status and had lost three months remission. In the end the Senior Officer had given up,

“Very well Malam,” she’d said, “Don’t answer, but I hope you can find a suitable excuse for your family, when they hear that you have to serve another three months.”

Outside in the corridor, one of the other Officers on duty looked across sympathetically, “You want to shake them don’t you? Throwing their lives away for this.”

Shaw nodded, “Yes, and all because of one person.” They’d both reached the office and stood looking at the two CCTV pictures. The one of Malam showed her stretched out on her stomach, she seemed to be crying. The one of Butcher showed her on her feet, performing some sort of exercises. The other officer nodded toward the screen,

“She does that two or three times a day, one of the others said it was some form of martial arts, is that right?”

“Probably, Butcher knows quite a few, I think they are called kata,” Shaw said absently, she made a decision, “I’m going to speak to her again,”

“You are? Do you think it will do any good?”

“I don’t know, but I have to try.”

“Fine, I’ll just call for help, she’ll have to be restrained…”

“No, no help, just me.” Miss Shaw looked across at the other woman, “and switch off the CCTV, I want it to be private.”

In vain did the other woman protest, Miss Shaw had made up her mind, standing outside the cell she spoke once more, “Now only open the door if I knock, otherwise leave us to it.”

“You do know that’s just asking her to attack you? If she knows we’re not even watching?”

“I can’t help that,” Geri smiled slightly, “I have to get her to open up, maybe this will work.”

“You really think she’s worth it?”

“Yes, they’re all worth it. You have to remember that, otherwise we stop treating them as people. Now open the door.”

At the sound of the door opening Butcher looked across sharply; she had finished her exercises and now stood beside the sink, wiping her face, “Back again Shaw? Thought we’d said all we were going to say last time.”

The Senior Officer waited until the door had been slammed shut and locked, she looked up at the small CCTV camera in the ceiling, it was protected by a stout wire mesh cage but the red light indicating it was on was clearly visible. The light went off. Butcher followed her gaze,

“Is that wise? Having the spy camera switched off?”

Shaw looked across, “I wanted to speak to you in private, Butcher, I thought you would feel more able to speak to me.”

Butcher shrugged, “You’re wasting your time, Miss Shaw,” the emphasis on the word ‘Miss’ was deliberate, “Why d’ya think I’d be interested in talking to you? You screws are all the same, only interested in making sure we stay in here, don’t contaminate the rest of society.”

“That’s not true, Butcher and you know it. Prison Officers are the same as any other people, there may be some that have that view, but the vast majority want to help the inmates.”

“Well I don’t need any help, Miss Shaw.” the tone of Butcher’s voice now held menace. She sat on the bed, ignoring the presence of the other woman.

Shaw moved further into the cell, “I think you do, Butcher,” she said quietly, “I think you need to talk to someone about why, suddenly, you’ve started acting like this. I think you need to confide in someone and to do so quickly, because otherwise you will be transferred to the nearest Cat A facility.” She paused for a moment, then added, “and you will waste the rest of your life.”

There was silence for a time then a muffled laugh, “Waste the rest of my life? That’s a joke right? I’ve got a lifetime of prison to look forward to, some would say that wasting my life is something I’ve already accomplished.”

“Not necessarily.” Shaw was quick to reply, “There are ways, even for those with life sentences, that they can achieve things, can lead useful lives.”

Butcher snorted, “Stuffing soft toys for kids or basket weaving? I don’t think so!”

“There are other…” Shaw was interrupted.

“I’m not bloody well interested screw! Is that all you came to say? Well you’ve said it, so get out before I forget I owe you. If you really want to help me put Mason in here for 30 seconds, I’m not interested in anything else.” Butcher turned her back.

“Why? Why is she so important that you’d risk everything else?”

There was no reply, Shaw took a deep breath, “Dammit! Talk to me, Butcher, before it’s too late. In this prison you can at least have a life, if you are transferred to Category A it will be a living death sentence. Surely nothing is worth that?”

“It’s worth it,” Butcher replied tightly, “if she dies anything is worth it. Whatever happens to me.”

The Prison Officer stared, “Well I never realised just how much of a coward you were, Butcher,” she said, and her voice held scorn, “my impression of you is completely wrong.”

“Your mistake, Shaw.”

“Yes, but I’m not the one who will pay, am I?” Shaw walked over and placed a hand on the convict’s shoulder, twisted her round, the two women were of about the same height and gazed into each others eyes, “you obviously don’t care about who else will pay, do you? All that pretence at caring about the rest of the women in here, it’s all a sham, isn’t it?”

“What the Hell are you talking about?” Butcher was angry now and twisted her shoulder from the prison officer’s grasp.

“You posing as someone that cares about the other women, has their interests at heart, it’s all a lie, isn’t it? You don’t give a damn about the other women, you’re only interested in yourself.”

“That’s not true…”

“Yes it is, and I’m just surprised I didn’t see it before. It was just a way to ensure they all did your bidding, wasn’t it? And now you’re going to leave them? Well in that case it’s the best thing you could do, maybe the next woman to rise to the top will give a shit about them, because you obviously don’t!”

“Enough!” The order was said through clenched teeth, it was also accompanied by movement. Shaw suddenly found herself propelled backwards, slamming into the cell wall. Butcher in front of her; one hand grasping her lapel, the other around her neck. Shaw attempted to move but found herself held fast.

“Why’d you say that, Shaw? Answer me!”

A short silence then Shaw swallowed, “The cell opposite this? It has a newcomer. An ex-Trustee, name of Angela Malam. She tried to stab Mason, it’s cost her her Trustee status, five days Solitary and three months remission. Not a very good way of showing you care about the women in here, Butcher.”

The news obviously startled the prisoner and she allowed her attention to wander very slightly, Shaw saw her chance, reaching across with her hands, she placed her own on top of Butcher’s, twisting 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.

“It’s a wristlock, Butcher, don’t try and struggle against it, you’ll only hurt your…”

Any further speech from Shaw was curtailed as Butcher, instead of remaining still, lay down on her front and twisted. Shaw didn’t know how she did it but suddenly the convict has released herself from the wristlock and, with her legs, swept Shaw from her feet. Before she could recover the Senior Officer felt her arm twisted up behind her back.

“Word of advice, Shaw,” Butcher hissed into her ear, “if you’re going to use a wrist lock, make sure the person you’re using it on doesn’t know the counter. I’ve know that move for more than ten years.”

Shaw breathed fast for some seconds, unable to move, when she could finally speak she did so quietly, “Well go on then, finish it. You’ll be transferred to Cat A tomorrow anyway, might as well finish with a flourish.”

“Finish?”

“Another murder,” Shaw replied, “I can’t stop you, no one outside knows what’s happening.”

Butcher’s gaze flickered to the camera, it was still off. “No, they don’t, do they? Why’d you do that?”

“I told you, I wanted to know why you were acting like this, I wanted to help.”

There was silence for a time then, suddenly, Butcher released her grip on the prison officer. Shaw slowly stood, looked across at the inmate.

“Okay,” Butcher said, “if it means that much, if you’re prepared to risk that much, I’ll tell you.”

 

#543:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 9:58 pm

Oh, well done Geri!

Thanks Lesley

Liz

 

#544:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 10:38 pm

*intrigued*

More please Lesley! (although I do realise that you are posting very very frequently and am very grateful indeed)

 

#545:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 10:41 pm

Thank you Lesley!
And good for Geri!

 

#546:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 10:46 pm

Yaaaay!

Thank you Lesley!

 

#547:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Wed Oct 19, 2005 11:30 pm

Super!! Just caught last two updates....
poor Hilda! No Nell, punching is definitely not a good idea!

 

#548:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 4:06 am

Now which storyline shall I wibble about first?

Thank you Lesley!

 

#549:  Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire PostPosted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 9:11 am

My goodness! I just read the latest instalment literally on the edge of my seat and holding my breath!

Lesley, I'm quite sure it is too much to ask for you to tell us immediately in the next instalment what Butcher is going to say? Very Happy

 

#550:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 11:02 am

Well done Geri! Now how will she help Butcher once she finds out?

And Nell please don't punch anyone.

Thank you Lesley.

 

#551:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 11:10 am

Miss Shaw’s first response to Butcher’s words disappointed the inmate; Shaw turned and walked across to the cell door, knocked on it hard. The officer outside was obviously awaiting the sound, the door was unlocked and opened immediately,

“Everything alright, Miss Shaw?” The other woman took in the Senior Officer’s dishevelled appearance.

“Everything’s fine,” Shaw replied, “I need a chair please, and bring me two coffees.”

The officer seemed surprised but realised that Miss Shaw was serious, there was a short wait. Then the door was unlocked again and the prison officer passed in a small chair and a tray with two mugs of coffee upon it. The cell door was then slammed shut and locked once more. Shaw pushed the chair across so that it was opposite the bed, the only other place for someone to sit and sat down. She then waited until Butcher had sat on the bed before passing across one of the drinks. For a short time the two women sat sipping their coffee. Then, as though there had been a signal, they both sat back, stared into the other’s eyes.

Butcher spoke, “You know my record, Shaw?”

“Of course.”

“Then you know the reason why I was first convicted, nearly ten years ago?”

Shaw thought for a moment, “You were convicted of murder, the man you killed was the owner of a large factory in Mansfield. You had been attempting to rob the place.”

Butcher nodded, “Yeah, the owner was a bit old-fashioned, insisted on paying his staff cash every Friday. Said it would guarantee they appeared on Fridays and had money in their pockets. He’d have the money delivered early Friday morning and transferred to the work safe.”

“And you shot him.” Shaw said flatly. She noted the anger in Butcher’s eyes, Butcher herself said nothing at first, when she did speak it was with some deliberation,

“Why don’t you listen to my side first, Shaw?”

There was silence for a time, both women drank some more of the coffee, Miss Shaw nodded slightly, “Alright Butcher, I’ll listen,” she said.

Butcher didn’t seem in any hurry to reply, instead staring off into space for sometime, eventually though she spoke, “Joseph Hibbert, the bloke’s name. He was an old guy, mid-fifties I suppose. Quite tall, running to fat. He was always there 6.30 on a Friday morning, to greet the Securicor van. He knew something about security see? Didn’t keep a lot of money on the premises through the week. I’d heard about his routine of paying cash from an ex-employee - Hibbert had fired him for theft so he was happy to spill the beans.”

Butcher took a breath then continued, “I’d got to know another woman, we’d done a couple of jobs together, strictly minor stuff. She was good at breaking and entering, but didn’t balk if violence was needed.” The convict looked across sharply at this, “That’s unusual you know? Most crooks don’t want any violence, not women anyway, just want to get in, do the job and get out.”

“I know,” Shaw said delicately, “so was violence going to be required then?”

Butcher nodded, “Yes, or at least the threat of violence, because there was no way the money was left on its own. Hibbert stuck it in the safe, yeah, but he stayed in the office ‘til eight o’clock, when his staff queued up for their wages. We had a window of about ninety minutes when he’d be the only one about. Plenty of time to crack the safe and get out of there. We just needed to keep Joe quiet.”

“What happened?”

“First part went just as I’d planned, the pair of us turned up at the gate just after quarter to seven, car billowing smoke, obviously on its last legs. Hibbert had already put all the money away, was sitting having a coffee when we appeared, asked to use his phone to call for Breakdown Assistance.” Butcher smiled, “One of the advantages of having two women, the men, especially the older ones, never feel you’re a threat, look on you as weak and feeble. Well, once we’d got into the office, Hibbert showed us the phone but we didn’t use it. Instead we told him we were there for the money. He laughed to begin with, reached over to pat me on the head, told me to go play somewhere else.”

“What did you do?”

Butcher stared across at the prison officer, “Similar move to the one I used on you, Shaw, I took him down. When he was on the floor, unable to move because of the armlock, I spelled it out to him. He cause no trouble, all that was going to happen was that he’d be locked up in his stationery cupboard for an hour or so - it had a good door and lock on it. He’d be able to claim the money back from his insurance, no problem. But if he wanted, we could get real nasty.”

“There was a gun, wasn’t there?” Shaw asked quietly.

Butcher nodded, “Yes, there was a gun, useful way of keeping people quiet, letting them see you’re serious. I gave the gun to my partner, told her to lock Hibbert in the cupboard then join me in cracking the safe.”

Butcher stood and paced a few steps before continuing, “I’d just got the safe open, it was hardly worth the name safe anyway, was putting all the money into a duffle bag, must have been fifty thousand dollars there, maybe more, when my partner appeared again. She was breathing fast, seemed really worried about something, didn’t think much of it, the jobs sometimes affect people like that. She held out the gun, said ‘Here, cop this, I’ll go get the car round’ - I took the gun automatically, put it in my pocket. Continued loading up the money. Just then I heard two things, first, the sound of my partner revving up the car and driving off, then, almost at the same time, the sounds of sirens.”

Butcher paused again, her eyes dark, when she spoke again it was almost a whisper, “I had nowhere to run, the cops surrounded the place so fast I couldn’t get out. So I did the only thing I could think of, I surrendered. It wasn’t until I was on my way to the police station that I heard I was being charged with murder, Hibbert’s body was found in the room next door, a gunshot wound to his head. Near as I can figure it, my supposed partner hadn’t just locked him up, she’d started bragging to him about how helpless he was. How he couldn’t do anything to stop her. Hibbert had managed to trip an alarm. When she realised she’d shot him, used a cushion or something to muffle the sound, so I didn’t hear it.”

Butcher looked across at the Senior Officer, “This bit is told in confidence, Shaw,” she said brusquely, “if you ever try and repeat it I’ll deny all knowledge, you understand?”

“Yes, I understand”

“Well then, you want to know why the campaign against Mason? Because she was my partner, she was the one who killed Hibbert, then gave me the gun and fled, leaving me to take the blame.”

 

#552:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 11:23 am

Interesting. So now what Geri?

Thank you Lesley.

 

#553:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 11:46 am

Oh wow. Hope Geri can find the right words! Thanks Lesley

 

#554:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 12:07 pm

Thanks Lesley - wonder how long it's been since Butcher told anybody about that (if ever).

Liz

 

#555:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 12:51 pm

Wow, I had such a lot to catch up. This quite up to your usual high standard Lesley.
*wondering about Nell and Ian*
*wondering about Hilda's reputation*
*wondering what Geri will do*
*wondering if this will make any difference to Butcher*
*wondering if Nell will land a punch*

 

#556:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 4:06 pm

Thanks Lesley!
I feel really sorry for Butcher, reading this. I mean, okay, the robbery was wrong, and she shouldn't have done it, but she had no intention of hurting the guy.
*slaps Mason*

 

#557:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 4:13 pm

Thanks lesley. Have finally caught up again!

*also feeling sorry for Butcher*

 

#558:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 4:14 pm

I am so pleased that Butcher trusted Geri enough to confide in her - and what a sad tale she had to tell.

*No honour among thieves* - but, you know, one senses that Butcher did have *honour* before that. Now? Well, one can understand her outlook.

But what can anyone DO?

Thank you for keeping us on the edge of our seats, Lesley.

 

#559:  Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria PostPosted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 7:56 pm

LESLEY!
10 pages and I 'm still sat wibbling!
(but I didn'tfall off any cliffs though Wink )

 

#560:  Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries PostPosted: Thu Oct 20, 2005 8:39 pm

Hmm good to hear Butcher's side of it.

Thanks Lesley, this is much more complicated than I thought.

 

The CBB -> Ste Therese's House


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