The CBB :: View topic - The School at .....?

#1: The School at .....? Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 3:46 pm

Those of you who were at the FG will remember Lesley's rather disturbing bedtime drabble. This is the consequence!

Madge and Dick Bettany looked at each other with worry in their eyes as the sound of coughing drifted downstairs.
“I don’t know what to do about you two girls,” said Dick to his twin sister. “I’m due back in India very soon, and I don’t feel I can leave you to fend for yourselves. Money isn’t too plentiful you know, and taking you both back to India with me isn’t an option. It wouldn’t suit Jo at all.”
Madge smiled at her brother. “Don’t worry about us, old thing,” she said. “I have a plan for us both. You’re right, India wouldn’t suit Jo at all – too damp. She needs somewhere with warmth and dry air, and she won’t get them here in England either.”
“Where then?” asked Dick. “What have you got up your sleeve now Madge?” He knew from experience that if she had made up her mind, nothing he could say would shift her.
Madge looked at him speculatively. “Do you remember that wonderful holiday we had about three years ago?” she asked.
Dick nodded. “Do I not! That was the holiday of a lifetime. Jo loved the place – well she would do with her love of history – and it suited her health too.”
“Well I thought I could go and live there,” said Madge. “We know that the living is cheap out there.”
“Not cheap enough Madge,” said Dick. “You would need some sort of an income.”
“I’d thought of that too,” said Madge. “I thought that I could start a school. Jo wouldn’t lose out on her education that way, and we might get some of the children of Englishmen living out there too.”
“My dear good girl, wouldn’t that take more money than we have simply to set it up?” asked Dick in astonishment. “And you couldn’t possibly teach every subject.”
“I thought that I would ask Elise to come with us,” said Madge. “She can take Languages. The rest can be added in as and when we find the need. Let’s get Jo down and see what she thinks.”
Dick went to the door and called up the stairs. “Jo! Come here would you? We need to talk.”
“Okey doke,” came the reply, followed by what sounded as a herd of young elephants as Jo charged down the stairs, to arrive in the salon out of breath and trying to control another outbreak of coughing.
“Steady on Jo,” said Dick. “You know what racing about like that does.”
“I know,” said Jo. “But it’s such a bother to have to remember all the time.”
“Sit down and listen Jo,” said Madge. “We have been talking about what we must do when Dick goes back to India, and we – well I then! – have a plan. You remember that holiday we had a few years ago? You loved every minute. I mean to go and live there.”[/b]

Last edited by Pat on Fri Jun 03, 2005 7:31 pm; edited 34 times in total

#2: Author: Katie, Location: A Yorkshire lass in London

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 3:57 pm

Thank you Auntie Pat - I hoped you'd take this on. Ooooh, a bit of mystery for non-gatherers... Wink

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

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 4:06 pm

Won't they be frustrated not knowing where the school is moving too! Thank you Pat!

#4: Author: Katie, Location: A Yorkshire lass in London

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 4:07 pm

D'you think this counts as gloating? Ah well, they'll find out sooner or later. Twisted Evil

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

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 4:09 pm

Well it might - but I can't see that Auntie Pat can go that much longer without haven't to mention it!

#6: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 4:10 pm

Oh I don't know! We have all the places en route after all!!! Twisted Evil

Last edited by Pat on Tue Mar 01, 2005 4:12 pm; edited 2 times in total

#7: Author: Katie, Location: A Yorkshire lass in London

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 4:10 pm

Depends how long she keeps us hanging for the next post really.

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

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 4:21 pm

Pat wrote:

Oh I don't know! We have all the places en route after all!!! Twisted Evil

*g* indeed we do!!!

#9: Author: Katie, Location: A Yorkshire lass in London

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 4:23 pm

Pat wrote:

Oh I don't know! We have all the places en route after all!!! Twisted Evil

Ooohhh, Auntie Pat, you *are* norty! *g*

#10: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 4:34 pm

Hehe its very shiny to see this, thank you norty Auntie Pat Very Happy

#11: Author: Rebecca, Location: Kendal/Oxford

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 5:30 pm

Oh, the fun of gloating! Thank you Auntie Pat! It looks very shiny!

#12: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 5:31 pm

Thank you Pat - lovely first post.Would be very mistified if I didn't already know!Yes Carolyn this is the one I meant!

#13: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 5:34 pm

By the time Dick had to return to India all was ready. The house was packed up and most of their personal possessions crated, all except those things they would need on the journey. Mlle Elise Lepattre had agreed to come with them, and to bring with her her niece, Simone Lecoutier. A further addition to the party was Grizel Cochrane, who lived in the same town as the Bettanys. Jo could hardly contain her excitement as they boarded the train for Southampton and the ship that would take them to their destination. Grizel showed less obvious excitement, just a deep satisfaction to be leaving an unhappy home behind her. By the time they had boarded the ship and found their berths Jo was exhausted, her eyes showing like black smudges in a white face, and the cough that she had never really thrown off since the project had been discussed was deeper, wracking her body. Madge was fervently hoping that the time at sea would help her young sister to throw off the infection, for she was becoming very worried that it indicated something far worse, that she hardly dared to even think about.
Madge and Mlle shared one cabin, and Grizel and Jo shared another. Simone would also be with them when they docked at Le Havre. Madge made sure that Jo went straight to bed as soon as their cases arrived, and she was sound asleep even before the door closed behind her sister. Grizel, being a few years older, stayed up for the evening meal, served as the ship left Southampton behind.

Last edited by Pat on Wed Mar 09, 2005 12:39 pm; edited 1 time in total

#14: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 5:40 pm

Thanks Pat!

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

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 5:47 pm

Hehee! Wonderful! Thank you Auntie Pat!

#16: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 5:57 pm

If you can let us non-Gatherers know when you've decided to stop childishly trying to point out that, yet again, we are not part of the club, that would be helpful. At that point, I think that this might be an interesting drabble to read.

#17: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 6:03 pm

Chelsea wrote:

Agrees with Chelsea.

#18: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 6:05 pm

Chelsea wrote:

I'm sorry if you thought that Chelsea. I didn't mean it to sound cliquish at all. It was only that the inspiration came directly from Lesley's drabble, and you will be able to read that when the G site is up.

#19: Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 8:59 pm

Well I think we non-gatherers have the advantage here - as we don't yet know the outcome! Far more exciting for us! Wink

Looking forward to enlightenment! But not too quickly... Smile

Thankyou Pat Very Happy

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

Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 12:15 am

Pat's bunny's obviously been biting very hard since the journey home To all those not present at the FG, you will love it and the destination is worth waiting for (almost wishes I didn't know so I could join in the guessing) And you did have some drabbles of your own which we haven't been able to see Very Happy

#21: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 4:01 am

Pat wrote:

you will be able to read that when the G site is up.

Not a whole lot of comfort, given that we're still trying to be patient about the Summer Gather site. Rolling Eyes

But perhaps Uto could torture unkind gloaters without mercy until that day comes. Twisted Evil

Dawn wrote:

And you did have some drabbles of your own which we haven't been able to see

No comparison! Particularly since three out of our four are posted and available.... But Pat -- this is a most interesting start! Though I'm wibbling a bit over Joey's cough, and the implications of the word "disturbing" in your intro ....

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

Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 7:35 am

I didn't think my drabble was disturbing! It was only pointing out how things could be different if just small things changed. Pat, this is good,glad bunny is biting. Laughing

#23: Author: Katie, Location: A Yorkshire lass in London

Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 2:47 pm

Lesley wrote:

I didn't think my drabble was disturbing! It was only pointing out how things could be different if just small things changed. Pat, this is good,glad bunny is biting. Laughing

Did you not hear the gasps of horror as it was read out? Although I agree it would be fun not to know what the destination was...

#24: Author: Emily, Location: Land of White Coats and Stethoscopes.

Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 3:29 pm

Lesley wrote:

I didn't think my drabble was disturbing! It was only pointing out how things could be different if just small things changed.

Exactly, it was terrifying! Lovely start, Pat!

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

Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 8:42 pm

It was VERY scary!!! (and I had to READ it out!!!)

#26: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 8:44 pm

They weren't axactly small things that got changed, were they? Shocked

#27: Author: Ella, Location: Staffordshire

Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 9:15 pm

As another not-at-gather type, consider me suitably disturbed! :hiding: Intrigued now.... looking forward to finding out more! typing

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

Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 9:25 pm

Pat wrote:

They weren't axactly small things that got changed, were they? Shocked

Well in a way, they were small changes - it was the consequences of the changes that was a little disturbing.

#29: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 9:32 pm

Lesley wrote:

Pat wrote:

They weren't axactly small things that got changed, were they? Shocked

Well in a way, they were small changes - it was the consequences of the changes that was a little disturbing.

This drabble being one of said consequences!!!

#30: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 11:53 pm

Vikki wrote:

It was VERY scary!!! (and I had to READ it out!!!)

and a good job you made of it too given the subject matter!

#31: Author: Rachel,

Posted: Thu Mar 03, 2005 9:29 am

Could you stop yibbling and get on with this drabble please? As someone who also wasn't at the Gathering, I want to know where this is all going! Hurry up!

#32: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Thu Mar 03, 2005 10:11 am

I want to know too!

#33: Author: Abi, Location: Alton, Hants

Posted: Thu Mar 03, 2005 11:32 am

Me too! Starting to feel quite worried...

#34: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Mar 03, 2005 10:14 pm

Please be patient. Yesterday I spent packing Mum's stuff up. Today I went back to her old home with jumbo Transit van, loaded her stuff and took it down to Rushden where Steve & I unpacked it all again. I am totally knackered! I will try and write some more tomorrow.

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

Posted: Thu Mar 03, 2005 10:21 pm

you're forgiven, Pat *sits with cup of hot chocolate until Pat can continue*

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

Posted: Thu Mar 03, 2005 10:23 pm

*hugs Auntie Pat tight* You take as long as you need hunny! *hugs again*

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

Posted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 1:09 am

Hands out hot chocolate with cream and brandy in it (well I've got earache again and I'm sure Matey would say it was medicinal Wink

) Thinking of you Pat - as you know all too well we are all far too impatient for our own good and it will probably do us good to wait Very Happy

Hope that Friday goes well and that you can have a real rest before going back to work on Monday

#38: Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England

Posted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 6:35 am

Any more of that hot choc & cream for me? Wink

*sigh* why is it only when I'm ill that I have time to catch up on the board?! (Mind you, that is a perk of being ill!) Very exciting, wanted to suggest the Isle of Wight (the climate is so different!) but if there are lots of places en-route then possibly not ... *Lisa, who has disturbing black smudges for eyes at the moment* (why does a chest infection turn your eyes to black smudges?! Shocked

)

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

Posted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 10:23 am

Ooo Hot chocolate, thank you! Settles down to wait patiently!

#40: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 12:21 pm

hope you get a chance to have a rest Pat, and that your mum's move goes smoothly. Don't worry about us impatient types, we're quite comfy here with our hot choc!

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

Posted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 1:31 pm

Thanks for this Pat - looking forward to seeing more

Liz

Last edited by LizB on Wed Mar 09, 2005 3:04 pm; edited 1 time in total

#42: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Tue Mar 08, 2005 10:24 pm

Jo slept so soundly that she was completely unaware of the ship docking at Le Havre, and of the bustle as Simone arrived in the little cabin and was put to bed. The first she knew was when the daylight crept through the small port hole and woke her. The frst thing she heard was muffled weeping coming from one of the other beds, and she knew that this had to be the new arrival, for Grizel never allowed her emotions to show in this way. Jo sat up in bed and looked across the cabin. Grizel was sound asleep, and all she could see of Simone was a hump in the middle of the bed that shook in time to the sobs. They were so heart-broken that Jo slipped out of bed and padded across to Simone’s berth.
“I say old thing,” she said as she perched on the side of the berth. “What’s the matter?”
The sobs subsided for a minute as a muffled voice emerged from the bedclothes.
“It is that I wish to be at home,” said Simone, the words ending with a hiccup. “I want ma mere.” With these words the sobs resumed, and nothing Jo could do would stop them. Therefore she got herself dressed and hurried to the neighbouring cabin in search of her sister. She found her just closing the cabin door and heaved a sigh of relief.
“Madge, could you come to Simone? She’s sobbing like anything and I can’t make her stop. She says she wants her mother.”
Madge smiled down at her young sister. “Of course I’ll come Jo,” she said. “The poor girl is homesick. She’s never been away from her mother before, and now she’s going a long way away. Why don’t you go up to the dining room and get your breakfast since you’re up and about? You know where it is, don’t you?”
“Yes of course I do. I’ll see you up there shall I?”
Madge nodded and opened the door. Simone’s sobs continued unabated, and Madge smiled at her sister before softly closing the door, cutting off the pitiful crying.

#43: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Tue Mar 08, 2005 10:37 pm

Lovely Pat. Still keeping it along the same lines as the original story.
Thank you.

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

Posted: Wed Mar 09, 2005 9:20 am

Lovely thank you Pat!

#45: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Wed Mar 09, 2005 1:33 pm

Thanks Pat, I have a inkling about where they could be going...

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

Posted: Wed Mar 09, 2005 3:06 pm

Thanks Pat - Hope Simone can be cheered up soon

Liz

#47: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Wed Mar 09, 2005 4:39 pm

Thank you Aunty Pat!!

May we have lots more soon?! Very Happy

#48: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Mar 09, 2005 7:26 pm

The next morning the party awoke to find the ship tossing its way across the Bay of Biscay, which was certainly trying to live up to its reputation for bad weather. Jo looked across to the bunk which had been empty when she had gone to bed, but all she could see was a mound of bedclothes. Grizel saw where she was looking and puled a face.
“I think she cried herself to sleep last night,” she said quietly. “She was crying when she came aboard. I hope she’s not going to prove a cry-baby, or we’ll really be for it!”
“Let her sleep in,” said Jo as she scrambled into her clothes. “She may feel better when she’s had a good sleep. I’m going to get breakfast. Coming?”
When the two girls returned to the cabin they found a very woebegone Simone just finishing dressing. She still looked suspiciously red about the eyes, though her tears had ceased.
“Hello old thing,” said Jo. “Had a good sleep. I bet you’re starving aren’t you? Shall I show you where the dining room is?”
Simone smiled slightly. “If you please,” she said quietly. “What are you called? I know one is Josephine and one Grizel.”
“Coo, you don’t have to use my Sunday-best name you know. I’m Jo and this is Grizel. And you’re Simone. Don’t you think this is a wizard idea?”
“Me, I would have wanted to stay at home,” said Simone dolefully. “I have never left ma mere before, and I want her so much.”
Seeing the likelihood of further tears, Jo hurried Simone out of the cabin and up to the dining room, where she found Madge and Mlle eating their own breakfast. Simone slipped into a chair beside Mlle, and managed to eat a good meal, in spite of her home sickness. None of the party were suffering from the movement of the ship, though many other passengers, were, judging from the empty room.
When they had finished their meal, the whole party settled themselves on the aft deck, where deck quoits were laid out. Before long all but Mlle, who claimed to be too old for such things, were endeavouring to throw their quoits as close to the target as they could. All four were shrieking with laughter, even Madge, though she privately promised herself to keep such relaxed behaviour strictly for holiday times, or she would be hard pressed to maintain discipline n her little school. By the time bedtime came for Jo and Simone they had left the Bay behind them and were heading south along the Portuguese coast towards their next port of call at Lisbon, which they would reach shortly after breakfast. Since they were travelling on a cargo ship, they would have time to explore the city, for it would take most of the day to unload the cargo, and take on other things. Jo was excited at the prospect, for she loved history and knew that Portugal had been in the forefront of exploration during the Middle Ages. Simone, who had conceived a passion for her, was happy to follow in her footsteps, whilst Grizel, more down-to-earth, was simply looking forward to seeing how people lived in another country.

Last edited by Pat on Fri Mar 11, 2005 9:08 pm; edited 1 time in total

#49: Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England

Posted: Wed Mar 09, 2005 8:06 pm

Goody goody, two more posts to read! Very Happy

You have got the characters so well; you've got them behaving so 'realistically'. It's such a fascinating concept as well. Looking forward to the next part!

#50: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Wed Mar 09, 2005 8:39 pm

Thanks Pat.
Looking forward to more!

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

Posted: Wed Mar 09, 2005 8:58 pm

Lovely posts - thanks Pat. Laughing

#52: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Wed Mar 09, 2005 8:58 pm

Thank you Pat! Very Happy

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

Posted: Wed Mar 09, 2005 9:14 pm

Brilliant

*sits quietly formulating a theory as to their destination but decides to just sit it out*

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

Posted: Thu Mar 10, 2005 9:55 am

Thank you Pat! Lovely!

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

Posted: Thu Mar 10, 2005 2:08 pm

So good Pat

The characterrs are just so good - excellent that you've got them visiting Lisbon - wonder what adventures they'll have?

Has anyone guessed correctly re the destination?

#56: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Mar 10, 2005 2:17 pm

Not so far Dawn. they'd have to be really lucky to hit on the right place!!! Twisted Evil

#57: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Thu Mar 10, 2005 3:39 pm

Thank yuo Pat. It is a nice change to see them visiting Lisbon instead of Paris. Looking forward to the next update.

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

Posted: Thu Mar 10, 2005 9:17 pm

Pat wrote:

Not so far Dawn. they'd have to be really lucky to hit on the right place!!! Twisted Evil

I don't know - I think i could guess! Wink

#59: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Thu Mar 10, 2005 10:26 pm

I haven't the foggiest notion where they are going - but I'm enjoying their getting there!

Please, ma'am, may we have some 'ore (said in best Oliver Twist voice)

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

Posted: Fri Mar 11, 2005 3:55 pm

Pat wrote:

“Hell old thing,” said Jo.

Can't imagine that kind of language being allowed in the CS, wherever it is!! Laughing

Thanks Pat - lovely to see themselves enjoying quoits - and Jo finding somewhere en route to satisfy her passion for history!

Liz

#61: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Fri Mar 11, 2005 9:09 pm

LizB wrote:

Pat wrote:

“Hell old thing,” said Jo.

Can't imagine that kind of language being allowed in the CS, wherever it is!! Laughing

Thanks Pat - lovely to see themselves enjoying quoits - and Jo finding somewhere en route to satisfy her passion for history!

Liz

Woops!! Edited the typo!!

#62: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Tue Mar 15, 2005 5:50 pm

The ship berthed at Lisbon the following morning, and the party disembarked immediately after breakfast, eager to see as much of the city as they could in the short time they had. Madge was keen to use the journey to broaden the experiences of the girls, for they would not be able to travel back to England very often, once they reached their destination. They took a taxi down the coast to the Tower of Belem, built as one of three forts to protect the city in the 1400s, and built right on the edge of the River Tagus. As they reached the entrance Jo stopped and gazed around her.
“Just think what this tower has seen,” she said. “All the great explorers like Vasco De Gama setting off on their travels, the ships and the people.”
“Oh you and your mooning about history,” said Grizel, teasingly. “I like the building all right, but I’m looking forward to seeing the rest of the town, especially the shops.”
“What do you want to see Simone?” asked Mlle.
Simone raised her eyes to her cousin. “I do not know Tante Elise,” she said in a mournful voice. “I would rather be at home.”
Mlle Lepattre sighed. She knew that her niece was homesick and had expected it, for she had never been away from home before, but she had hoped that the new sights and sounds would bring the girl out of her misery.

When they had seen all they could of the Tower, they returned to the centre of Lisbon and the oldest area remaining after the great earthquake of 1755 had levelled much of the city . The Alfama area was full of winding streets and steep stairs, with the remains of both Roman and Arab architecture. Here Grizel was in her element, seeing how the ordinary people went about their daily lives. Even Simone looked about her with some interest, and Jo, of course, loved the mixture of styles and the air of history that hung about the area. They found a small restaurant for lunch which consisted of wonderful grilled sardine with fresh vegetables, followed by Belem tarts – custard tarts flavoured with cinnamon and sugar powder.

With time beginning to run short, the party then took the Gloria Funicular, opened in 1885, up to the Biarrio Alto (High Quarter), where there were wonderful views across the city from the San Pedro de Alcantara. Here Madge insisted that they rested for a little while, the first instance of the afternoon rest which would become an integral part of her school when it started. None of them were loathe to rest, for the seats gave them views across the city and the river beyond. They returned to the ship with time to spare before it sailed, having had a wonderful day exploring.

When the three girls finally retired for the night, they slept like logs, even Grizel making no fuss about going to bed at the same time as the others for once.

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

Posted: Tue Mar 15, 2005 6:29 pm

Lovely Pat - love the 'normal' Chalet School items in among all the exotic!

#64: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Tue Mar 15, 2005 7:32 pm

That was a lovely post Pat, thank you!

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

Posted: Tue Mar 15, 2005 10:17 pm

So, Auntie Pat, how much further do they have to travel, and how long will it take them...or is this so you have lots of time to research the place before writing about the school there? Twisted Evil

#66: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Tue Mar 15, 2005 10:39 pm

*Wonders where the next stop will be*

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

Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2005 9:49 am

Thank you Pat. Lovely - very clever the way you are linking in ideas etc. from the books.

#68: Author: Helen C, Location: Sheffield/Luton

Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2005 10:54 am

Thanks Pat this is great.

*thinks where they could be going from Lisbon*

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

Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2005 1:34 pm

Lovely Pat!

And just like in the books, I'm absorbing interesting facts about Lisbon while hardly realising it!

Liz

#70: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2005 3:01 pm

Thank you Pat very informative and very clever.

#71: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2005 7:25 pm

The next day dawned rather misty, and Madge decreed that they should spend their time in the lounge instead of braving the decks. She was not inclined to risk Jo’s delicate health in the damp conditions outside, and so they had to content themselves with playing various games inside. At first they were satisfied with various card games, which took them most of the morning, but after lunch Grizel rebelled.
“I’m sick and tired of cards,” she said. “Isn’t their something else we could do?”
”What about those paper games you and Dick used to play?” asked Jo, who was as tired of cards as Grizel.
“You mean Consequences and Book reviews? That’s a good idea Jo. We’ll get Mlle to join us, as it is better with as many folk as possible.”

Mlle laid down her embroidery with a smile. “I shall be glad to join you, ma petites,” she said in her gentle voice. “I have finished this part of my work, so I am quite at liberty.”
The two adults had to hush both Jo and Grizel more than once as they shouted with laughter at the results of the games, though Simone remained very subdued. She was beginning to feel a great deal of admiration for Jo, who was everything she sometimes wished that she could be - friendly, outgoing, hail-fellow-well-met. Simone was far too shy to become like Jo, but she was full of admiration for her.

The sun broke through in the late afternoon, and the party hailed it with delight. The games had palled and they were all feeling fidgety and ready for exercise.
“May we have a race around the deck Miss Bettany?” asked Grizel. “I am so tired of just sitting.”
“I’m sorry my dear,” replied Madge. “We are not the only people who will want to stretch our legs, and we must think of others. However, you may walk briskly, and that must be enough. We shall have plenty of exercise tomorrow to make up for it.”
“I can’t wait till tomorrow!” said Jo. “It’s going to be wizard, I think.”
Madge laughed. “Well I’m afraid that you must just possess your soul in patience Jo,” she said. “Tomorrow will come soon enough.”

#72: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2005 7:46 pm

How very CS! Laughing

#73: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2005 8:02 pm

And just what will tomorrow bring???

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

Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2005 8:11 pm

fantastic - and i love the little confectionery detail is the last but one post!

***mmm custard tarts***

#75: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2005 8:28 pm

Hmmm also wonders where next stop will be...

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

Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2005 8:34 pm

So Lisbon, and we still don't know wether they are going to go East or West from there! Laughing

#77: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2005 9:53 pm

This is great Pat, so very CSesy Very Happy

#78: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2005 9:57 pm

It was still dark when Jo awoke the next morning, though there was the faintest hint of the coming dawn in the sky. She slipped out of bed and dressed quietly, so as not to disturb the other two girls. Then she crept out of the cabin and up onto the deck. The ship was close to the shore with the land showing black against the lightening sky as Jo made her way to the port side of the ship. She was not the only one up early, for quite a crowd had gathered. The sun lifted above the horizon and lit the rock looming out of the darkness with a rosy glow. It towered over the surrounding countryside, jutting out into the sea. Jo sighed with delighted pleasure, for she had heard how magical Gibraltar could be with the sunrise reflecting form the rock face, and she had hoped that the weather would be kind.
“Does it fulfil your expectations Jo,” asked a voice behind her, and she turned to see her sister.
“It’s topping,” she replied. “Better than I had expected.”
“I’m glad of that. We’ll have till early afternoon to explore it, and there is plenty to see. Now come in and have breakfast or we won’t have time to see it all!”
Jo laughed, but she linked her arm through her sister’s and pulled her into the dining room to join the others.
“What do you all want to see first?” asked Madge. “Simone, suppose you suggest something.”
Simone went bright red at this notice, but managed to reply.
“Me, I would like to see the monkeys,” she said.
“The Barbary Apes? Yes, we must certainly see those.”
“And the Changing of the Guard,” put in Grizel. “It seems odd to have that outside London.”
Mlle declared that she would stay in the town while the rest made their way up the rock to see the apes.
“I am happy to stay and look at the shops,” she said. “The climb would make me very tired.”
The climb was certainly steep, but the views that opened up to them made it worth while. When they finally reached the terrace where many of the apes were playing they were all a little out of breath and were ready to rest. At first they could see very few animals, and were just beginning to feel disappointed when Jo gave a squeal.
“Look in the tress,” she cried. “There are heaps of them there.”
Sure enough, the cliff trees were swarming with apes, which quickly came running and jumping out to meet them. Simone shrank back against Madge in alarm, but Jo and Grizel each armed with a back of food to feed them, moved forward eagerly. Almost immediately Jo found one of them sitting on top of her head, and she giggled.
“It does feel funny,” she said. “Heavy too.”
Simone daringly left the protection afforded by staying close to Madge and came to join Jo and Grizel, hesitatingly offering a handful of nuts. An ape ran up her legs and made a grab for the food, and then she rocked forward, nearly falling, as two landed on her shoulders. She screamed in fright, as Jo caught her just in time to stop her going over, and the apes leapt off her back onto the ground as the nuts fell from her hand. Simone was shaking and tears were running down her face.
“Come on old thing,” said Jo. “They’ve gone now and your not hurt.”
“What a cry-baby,” muttered Grizel, though not quietly enough for Jo heard her and swung round.
“Don’t be so rotten Grizel,” she said. “Simone got a fright. She wasn’t expecting them to land on her like that, were you Simone?”
Simone shook her head, trying to stifle her tears, for she hated to be thought a baby. However, the incident had strengthened her growing admiration for Jo Bettany. As they walked down the road again, with Jo still hovering protectively next to Simone, the French girl stopped, pulling Jo to a halt too.
“Jo, will you be my aimee intime?” she asked. “I have never had a friend like that, and I so wish you would be.”
“Of course we can be chums,” said Jo, not realising the exact meaning of Simone’s request. “We three are the first pupils for the school, so of course we will be friends.”

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

Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2005 10:06 pm

Poor Jo, she doesn't realise what she has let herself in for does she!

Gib, so they could still be going anywhere in the world!

#80: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2005 10:42 pm

Hmmm maybe in the direction of the Suez Canal....

#81: Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England

Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2005 10:56 pm

Brilliant! The characters are developing SO nicely!!

#82: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2005 11:00 pm

So CS, it's brilliant!

More soon please Pat?

*smiles sweetly*

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

Posted: Thu Mar 17, 2005 12:15 am

Lovely - Thanks Pat

Liz

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

Posted: Thu Mar 17, 2005 7:11 am

Excellent - thanks Pat.

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

Posted: Thu Mar 17, 2005 10:31 am

Fantastic - thank you Pat!

#86: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Thu Mar 17, 2005 3:01 pm

Lovely posts Pat, thanks. Poor Jo and Simone!

#87: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Mar 17, 2005 8:08 pm

The ship would take a good two days to reach the next port, so Madge decreed that lessons would be the order of the day - or at least for the mornings.
“Do we have to?” grumbled Jo. “Won’t it be soon enough for that when we get there?”
“Josephine,” Madge’s voice was quiet, but Jo knew that tone of old, and subsided like a pricked balloon.
Madge’s idea of lessons turned out to be a preparation for their next trip ashore, and therefore far more interesting than the three girls had expected. They learnt something about the recent history of the country, how the currency worked, and what sights they would see. The ship was scheduled to stay in port for a couple of days, so Madge had arranged for them to spend two nights ashore. It was late evening when they docked at Civitavecchia, and Jo and Simone were fast asleep. Grizel was preparing for bed and so saw no more than they did, much to her disgust.
The following morning the party were up bright and early, so that they could catch the train inland. Civitavecchia was a fifty minute journey from Rome, and they had accommodation booked in a convent that specialised in catering for parties. Everyone looked eagerly out of the window as they neared the station, for this was a new experience for them all.
After leaving their overnight cases at the convent, they sallied forth to explore the city. Even Grizel, more interested in the way people lived in the present, was excited at the thought of actually visiting the Coliseum, and it exceeded their expectations, being far larger than any of them had envisioned. So much of it was still standing that it was possible to picture it in it’s heyday, with gladiators fighting to the death with each other, or Christians being sacrificed for their faith. The floor was missing so that they could see all the rooms underneath, and the shafts for the lifts which brought the animals into the arena. Even Simone brightened up, though she clung very close to Jo, much to that lady’s annoyance.
The Forum was next on the agenda, and this made a contrast, as there was much less still in existence. It did not have the same dark undercurrents as the Coliseum, and their spirits lifted in consequence. The following morning they then headed for the Vatican city. Grizel found the ornamentation inside St Peter’s too much for her, and dismissed it almost contemptuously. Simone of course, being Catholic, was in raptures, and asked if they were likely to see the Pope. For Jo, the beauty of the place left her breathless, for although it was more ostentatious than she was quite used to, she knew that it had been built to the glory of God, and drank it in. Madge, Jo and Grizel climbed up the dome to the viewing point at the top, leaving Simone with Mlle, neither of whom fancied the steep climb. The view was well worth it however, looking out high above the piazza far below. They could see the rows of terracotta roofing tiles used throughout Italy and the river winding through the city.

After lunch Grizel asked if they could visit the Trevi Fountain.
“I want to throw a coin into it, so that I shall come back again,” she said. “I know it’s only superstition, but it’s what everyone does in Rome, isn’t it?”
Madge smiled and assented. It was while Jo was throwing her own coin into the Fountain that an accident was just avoided. Two girls came running up behind her calling out to a lady standing near her.
“Signorina Maynard.”
One of them cannoned into Jo, and it was only the intervention of the lady that prevented her falling headlong into the Fountain.
“Scusi” Mi diaspace!” the girls cried and continued to speak in rapid Italian that none of them understood.
Seeing the incomprehension on Jo’s face, the lady hushed the excited girls with a few crisp words of Italian and turned to Jo.
“Do you perhaps speak English?” she asked hopefully.
“We are English,” cried Jo, as Madge came hurrying up to see what the fuss was about.
Luigia was begging your pardon for bumping into you like that,” said Miss Maynard. She turned to the girl who had bumped into Jo, the younger of the two. “Now is a good time to practice your English Luigia,” she said.
“I am very sorry to have run into you,” said Luigia.
“Please may we introduce ourselves?” put in the girl who was clearly her sister. “I am Bianca di Ferrara, and this is my sister Luigia. This is Miss Maynard, who is our English governess.

#88: Author: claire, Location: South Wales

Posted: Thu Mar 17, 2005 8:35 pm

OOh, more old (new?) characters, so they'll all end up at the school too

#89: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Thu Mar 17, 2005 8:42 pm

Love the way you're bringing all the familiar characters into Pat!

#90: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Thu Mar 17, 2005 8:46 pm

Oooh Rome, what great places they are visiting en route Very Happy

and a fabulous way of introducing Bianca and Luigia

Thanks Pat Very Happy

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

Posted: Thu Mar 17, 2005 8:48 pm

Wonderful!

I love the introduction of Bianca and Luigia, and the way the tables are turned with Jo no understanding a word. Will they be joining the school then?

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

Posted: Thu Mar 17, 2005 9:21 pm

What an excellent way of introducing new/old characters!

#93: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Thu Mar 17, 2005 10:09 pm

Wonders how long it will take for Bianca, Luiga and Maynie to end up at the CS.

#94: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Fri Mar 18, 2005 12:49 am

Thank you Pat. Lovely way to introduce the three but yet change all the details. This is a lovely retelling of the CS story.

#95: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Fri Mar 18, 2005 2:33 am

Fascinating -- juxtaposing this grand tour and the classic CS characters. Clever way to introduce Maynie as well as the Italians!

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

Posted: Fri Mar 18, 2005 9:24 am

For a moment I thought 'But Jo's not a Maynard yet!' then I read on and twigged!

Thanks Pat - excellent introduction

Liz

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

Posted: Fri Mar 18, 2005 10:34 am

Wonderful - so how do they end up joining the school? Intriguing.

Thank you Pat! Brought back lovely memories of Rome.

#98: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Fri Mar 18, 2005 12:27 pm

I haven't written that part yet, but no doubt something will occur to me when I do! Twisted Evil

It had better do!

#99: Author: Lucy, Location: Leeds

Posted: Fri Mar 18, 2005 2:46 pm

LizB wrote:

For a moment I thought 'But Jo's not a Maynard yet!' then I read on and twigged!

Have to admit that's exactly what I thought too Embarassed

Really enjoying this Pat

#100: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Fri Mar 18, 2005 3:05 pm

If they had meant Jo Maynard they would have called to Signora Maynard!!!!!

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

Posted: Fri Mar 18, 2005 8:23 pm

Love the way you introduce the characters, and still not given away where they are heading for.

#102: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Fri Mar 18, 2005 9:28 pm

Having been introduced the two parties merged, and Miss Maynard suggested finding a café where they could have some coffee and patisseries. The two English girls were fascinated by the array of cakes on offer, so unlike the English variety, and all so very tempting. Madge had to order Jo to restrict herself to two, or she wouldn’t have been able to manage her evening meal. The girls found that they got on very well, even Simone, though since she knew that the two Italians would be left behind, she was able to join in without feeling one stab of jealousy.

That evening, after the three girls had gone to bed, and Madge and Mlle were enjoying the evening air in the little courtyard in the centre of the guest accommodation, one of the nuns approached her.
“Scusi, Signorina Bettany,” she said. “There is a telephone call for you. Would you follow me please?”
“For me?” said Madge, startled. “But who knows we are here?”
The nun could not answer her, and simply led the way into t he building, and indicated a booth on the far side of the main foyer. Madge picked up the phone with some curiosity.
“This is Miss Bettany.”
“Ah, signorina, thank you for speaking ot me. I am Signor di Ferrara. I wonder if you would mind listening to a proposal I have for you?”
Madge noticed his excellent English, wishing that her own countrymen could speak so fluently in other languages.
“Certainly, Signor,” she said. “You must excuse my lack of italina if you please.”
“That is perfectly all right, Signorina. It is not a language that is much taught outside my own country. Now, I find I must go abroad on business, and wish my wife to accompany me. I had thought that I could leave my girls at home with Signorina Maynard, but I have had a better idea, I believe, which I have already discussed with her. Would you be prepared to take my two girls with you and enter them in your school? Signorina Maynard is happy to go with you, and help with the teaching, and I would, of course, continue to provide her salary until such time as circumstances change. What do you think.”

Madge was too flabbergasted to think anything for a minute. However, as the silence lengthened she realised that she would have to say something.
“I’m sorry Signor di Ferrara, but you have rather taken my breath away,” she said. “What do your daughters say?”
“They will do as I say, of course. But they have done nothing but talk about your intentions since they arrived home, so I am sure that there will be no problem there.”
When Madge finally rejoined Mlle, she still wore a stunned look on her face.
“What has happened, cherie,” asked Mlle.
“That was Signor di Ferrara,” said Madge. “He wants his girls to join the school, and travel on with us tomorrow. He will send the trunks on later. I did not expect the school to start growing just yet!”
“And Miss Maynard? What will happen to her?”
“She is coming too,” said Madge. “So we gain another member of staff to help us. She is able to take Maths, which I am very glad of, for I much prefer to teach English, and was really not looking forward to that.”

#103: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Fri Mar 18, 2005 10:22 pm

Another brilliant post Pat!

*yay for Maynie!!*

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

Posted: Fri Mar 18, 2005 10:26 pm

So how many more will they pick up on route Pat? Laughing

Will they ever make land, or will they become a travelling nomad school of the sea???

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

Posted: Fri Mar 18, 2005 11:42 pm

Excellent! Thanks Pat.

#106: Author: Liane, Location: Manchester England

Posted: Sat Mar 19, 2005 8:09 am

Thanks Pat. This is fantastic. As someone who is fairly new to the CS world I wasn't at the gather and can't wait to see where they all end up. More please.

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

Posted: Sat Mar 19, 2005 10:54 am

Thanks Pat - It's fascinating to see how, although the same girls are going to the school, they're arriving in such different ways and at different times

Liz

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

Posted: Sat Mar 19, 2005 1:24 pm

This is pure brilliance Pat

but I do love Carolyn's idea of

Quote:

a travelling nomad school of the sea

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

Posted: Sat Mar 19, 2005 1:54 pm

Pat this is brilliant. Have just read all of it up to now and am loving the gradual introduction of the usual characters!

#110: Author: claire, Location: South Wales

Posted: Sat Mar 19, 2005 3:26 pm

I love the idea of the school at sea

#111: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Sat Mar 19, 2005 8:43 pm

Dawn wrote:

This is pure brilliance Pat

but I do love Carolyn's idea of

Quote:

a travelling nomad school of the sea

Me too!
They could travel round collecting girls everywhere!

#112: Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England

Posted: Sun Mar 20, 2005 12:17 am

Fantastic! Love it! Very Happy

#113: Author: Liane, Location: Manchester England

Posted: Sun Mar 20, 2005 4:33 pm

Oh thought that was a story post. Never mind, I'll just have to wait a bit longer.

#114: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Mar 20, 2005 5:29 pm

That was a very clever way to introduce Maynie and the di Ferrara girls.

I liked how so many things are the same - only different! Grizel's reaction to the Vatican for instance and the cakes being different and richer.

I'm looking forard to the next landfall. Lovely, Pat.

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

Posted: Sun Mar 20, 2005 7:49 pm

Simone isn't going to be pleased!!!

Lovely update, thank you very much

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

Posted: Sun Mar 20, 2005 9:18 pm

This is great Auntie Pat! Thank you!

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

Posted: Mon Mar 21, 2005 10:41 am

Thank you Auntie Pat. Love the clever way you're introducign the characters!

#118: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Mon Mar 21, 2005 1:17 pm

In fact it was not until their next port of call that Bianca and Luigia joined them, for it was impossible for them to be ready any earlier, despite all their father said. However, the following morning Madge told the three girls about the phone call she had received. Jo was delighted.
“Oh topping!” she exclaimed. “I liked what I saw of them, and Miss Maynard seemed quite nice too. It will be nice to have more pupils for the school too.”
Simone said nothing, though she looked tragic. There was no time for more, for they had to catch the train back to the ship. It was only when they were out at sea that Madge realised that Simone was missing.
“Well she was here when we left the port,” said Jo when she was asked. Maybe she’s in the cabin.”
“I have looked there Jo. Would you help look for her girls?”
Grizel and Jo split up to search the upper decks, Jo heading for the outside areas, and Grizel looking in the inside public areas. Jo called Simone’s name quietly from time to time, but with no reply. Acting on impulse, she went down to the cabin and went inside. There was no one there, but when she knelt down to look under the furniture, she saw something that Madge had missed. Simone’s two long plaits were on the floor, half hidden by the bedspread. Jo snatched them up and went flying back up to the upper decks, looking for Madge.
“Look!” she cried dramatically when she had found her sister, and she waved the plaits in the air. “I found these by Simone’s bed.”

#119: Author: Helen C, Location: Sheffield/Luton

Posted: Mon Mar 21, 2005 1:22 pm

Thanks Pat I love the way this is the same but diffrent if that makes sense. Very Happy

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

Posted: Mon Mar 21, 2005 1:23 pm

Helen C wrote:

Thanks Pat I love the way this is the same but diffrent if that makes sense. Very Happy

Makes sense to me Helen! That's what's so clever about it! Thank you Pat.

#121: Author: Alice, Location: London, England

Posted: Mon Mar 21, 2005 1:36 pm

Thanks you Pat. Looking forward to finding out about how more familiar faces might join.

#122: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Mon Mar 21, 2005 2:34 pm

“But where, then, is Simone?” asked Mlle in consternation. “She cannot have vanished.”
“I’ll go and look again, Shall I Mlle?” asked Jo. “She must be somewhere.”
“Do that please Joey,2 said Madge. “We must find her.”
Jo dashed out of the lounge, and started her search again. This time she took the other direction around the deck and was rewarded by hearing muffled sobbing from somewhere ahead of her. Tracking the sound she found the cover on one of the lifeboats had been loosened, and when she peered in she found Simone curled up in the bottom of the boat, sobbing drearily.
“Simone. What on earth the matter?” she asked.
Simone lifted her head and looked up at her with eyes red from crying.
“You want to be friends with these new girls,” she said. “You will have no time for me.”
“What rot!” said Jo. “I will still be friends with you. Why should being friends with Luigia and Bianca make any difference to being friends with you. Come out of there, Simone. I can’t talk to you properly like this. And why did you cut your hair off like that?”
Simone climbed out of the boat and stood on the deck in front of Jo. Her hair, raggedly cut as it had been, stood out from her head in a ragged halo. Her face was swollen with her crying, and she was still racked by the occasional sob, even though she was now making valiant efforts to stop.
“I thought you would like me better,” she said.
“You must be mad!” exclaimed Jo in astonishment. “Why on earth would I like you better after you’d done a mad thing like that?”
“I….I don’t really know. You are so….so adventurous. I thought you would be pleased.” Simone was almost in floods again, and could hardly speak.
“Well you’re going to have to explain it all to Mlle and my sister, so I hope you can come up with something clearer than that,” said Jo. “Of all the mad starts, that takes the biscuit. Come on.”
And she led the way along the deck to the lounge. Simone followed reluctantly, knowing she would have to face the music at some point. Mlle looked shocked when she saw her niece, and Madge looked extremely serious, as befitted the Headmistress of a school, though she was secretly wishing the shriek with laughter. Simone looked so very funny, with her hang-dog expression and her hair sticking out in all directions.

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

Posted: Mon Mar 21, 2005 2:41 pm

Oh poor simone! It must have looked funny though.

Thank you Pat!

#124: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Mon Mar 21, 2005 5:22 pm

Would loved to have seen a picture of that scene!

Thanks Pat!

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

Posted: Mon Mar 21, 2005 6:33 pm

Thanks for those two posts Pat

I wondered what the onboard equivalent of the pinewoods would be and found the explanation straight away Very Happy

Liz

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

Posted: Mon Mar 21, 2005 8:28 pm

i hope there's a hairdresser on board...

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

Posted: Mon Mar 21, 2005 8:46 pm

Brilliant! It makes such perfect sense!

More please!

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

Posted: Mon Mar 21, 2005 11:18 pm

Aunty Pat I'm loving this ....it's great seeing the orginial plots and characters being interwoven into the new story.

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

Posted: Mon Mar 21, 2005 11:43 pm

This is very good, Pat. It's fascinating just how different the story can be whilst it retains so much of the original plot.

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

Posted: Tue Mar 22, 2005 11:52 am

This is wonderful Pat!!!!

I'm SO glad that that bunny bit you at the FG!!!!!

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

Posted: Tue Mar 22, 2005 7:13 pm

Excellent Pat, thank you. Laughing

#132: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Tue Mar 22, 2005 8:59 pm

Exactly the same but different!
ROFL

#133: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Mar 23, 2005 12:58 pm

Once the first shock had worn off Madge whisked Simone off to have her hair washed and the ragged ends tidied. A proper styling would have to wait until they reached Venice, for there was no hairdresser on board. When Simone reappeared, she looked a good deal neater, and the shorter hair could be seen to suit her.
“In one way it’s just as well,” said Madge privately to Mlle. “that long hair would have been far too much for her.”
“What her parents will say I have no idea,” said Mlle. “They adored her long hair, but I think you are right. This style will be much cooler for her.”

As the ship passed between Sicily and the mainland they kept a lookout for the whirlpools that guarded the straits. As Madge explained, they were probably the source of the legend of Scylla and Charybdis. Scylla was a monster with six heads who preyed on passing seamen, and Charybdis was a whirlpool that guarded the other side of the Straits of Messina. The legend had caught Jo’s imagination, and she had spent a happy time dreaming about the legend before they ever reached the Straits of Messina. None of the party really knew what to expect, though Jo hoped that they would see the sea swirling around like the water draining out of a sink. In the event all that could be seen was patches of oddly moving water that certainly did not look particularly dangerous.

The next excitement was passing the island of Stromboli, an active volcano for the last 2,000 years. It rose steeply out of the sea just of the eastern coast of Italy, but if they had expected some sort of violent eruption, with streams of lava flowing down the flanks, they were doomed to disappointment. All they could see was a few lumps of something shooting out of the top of the mountain.

#134: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Wed Mar 23, 2005 2:22 pm

Thanks, Pat!

I'm reading this alongside the original School at. Very fun!

#135: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Mar 23, 2005 2:31 pm

To Jo’s delight they docked within a stone’s throw of the Doge’s Palace in Venice. As soon as they could get off the ship they set off to explore, though Mlle took Simone off to the nearest hairdresser. Madge, Jo and Grizel headed for St Mark’s Square, and once again the differences between the two girls became clear. For Grizel the crowds of people thronging the piazza were of the most interest. The pavement cafes were still enough of a novelty to fascinate her, and the volatile conversations of the Italians, with their hand-waving gestures never palled. For Jo, although she too was fascinated by the different culture, the place was steeped in history. She gazed in awe at the façade of the Duomo, with it’s free-standing campanile, and wonderful decorations, and persuaded Madge that they had time for a quick tour inside. She left reluctantly, but Madge insisted that they make the most of the short tme they had in the city to see as much as they could. The canals, crowded with boats and gondolas, with the little steep bridges spanning them caught their interest, but all three were captivated by the Rialto Bridge. Crossing the Grand Canal, it was as steep as the other bridges. The difference here was that there were shops on it, so that from the street they could hardly tell that they were on a bridge at all.
“Like London Bridge used to have!” said Jo in delight.
Grizel had been looking for a present to send back home to Cookie, the only person in her home who had treated her with any kindness, and she had thought to buy her some ribbons for her hat. However, when she saw the little models of the gondolas, with a small figure of a gondolier standing on them, she decided on one of those instead. Madge had her doubts, feeling that it was unlikely to survive the postal services, but Grizel was adamant. Cookie held a very special place in her heart, being in effect more of a mother to her than her step-mother, who had done her best to harden Grizel to all softer feelings by her treatment of her. The little souvenir was carefully boxed and wrapped, and Grizel carried it carefully out of the shop, meaning to pack it for posting at their next port of call.

Mlle and Simone joined them for lunch and they continued their exploration of the magical city until they were nearly late returning to the ship. They found that Miss Maynard and the two di Ferarra girls had already settled into their cabin. Other passengers had also arrived, to take the place of those disembarking at Venice. When they entered the dining room that evening they found that there were a number of changes. Three tables next to theirs had been moved together so that three families could sit together, and they were already occupied. There were six girls of various ages, and adults who could be assumed to be their parents. All were fair-haired, the girls having long plaits that hung to their waists. To the English girls, they all seemed excessively well-behaved.
“Wouldn’t it be jolly if we could get to know them,” said Jo. “There aren’t really any other folk our age on board.”

#136: Author: Katie, Location: A Yorkshire lass in London

Posted: Wed Mar 23, 2005 2:50 pm

Oooh, do I spy the original Austrian members of the school? This just gets better and better, Pat!

#137: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Wed Mar 23, 2005 2:51 pm

One of my favourtie myths and Venice *feels spoiled*

Thanks Pat *beaming*

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

Posted: Wed Mar 23, 2005 3:24 pm

Lovely thank you Pat!

#139: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Wed Mar 23, 2005 3:26 pm

Shiny shiny shiny!

Thank you Pat!

#140: Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England

Posted: Wed Mar 23, 2005 5:44 pm

Fantastic - this is so atmospheric. Love Simone's plaits and how theis story keeps intertwining with the original! Thanks Pat! Also love the very EBD way that you give us information about the area! Very Happy

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

Posted: Wed Mar 23, 2005 6:20 pm

Wonderful Pat-love how the Austrian members of the School have just turned up! Laughing

#142: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Wed Mar 23, 2005 7:39 pm

This is so clever! (what happened to the worship smiley)
The same as the original but different places and coincidences!

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

Posted: Wed Mar 23, 2005 9:14 pm

Thanks Pat - I was wondering how they would appear - but of course, they had Italian cousins didn't they?

Liz

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

Posted: Wed Mar 23, 2005 11:13 pm

*giggles*

but of course they would be joining the school!

*Subscribes to the theory of a floating school....it seems plausible*

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

Posted: Wed Mar 23, 2005 11:32 pm

Loving this Pat, it works alongside the original so well.

*See the idea of a nomadic school of the sea wasn't that fantastical was it now!!! Twisted Evil

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

Posted: Thu Mar 24, 2005 4:49 pm

This just gets better and better Pat!

#147: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Thu Mar 24, 2005 6:47 pm

i've just read the whole lot so far and I love it!! Thank you pat! Mexican Wave

#148: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Mar 24, 2005 7:02 pm

Just done a HUGE catch up and loving it.

It's so EBD - but different!

Can't wait to find out where they are headed for!

*Has a theory*

#149: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Fri Mar 25, 2005 8:50 pm

By the time the ship reached Piraeus they were all good friends, and the adults of both parties were quite agreeable to seeing the sights together. Therefore it was a large group that caught the train into Athens. None of them had been there before, not even Madge and Jo when they had come this way on holiday. When they arrived in the city, and saw the ancient stones of the Acropolis guarding the modern city below they were all amazed. They had not really known what to expect, for photographs could not do the view justice. Even Grizel felt something of the awe that the others were feeling. They found that a bus ran from the station to the foot of the hill on which the Acropolis stood, and they climbed aboard eagerly. They had to walk up the hill itself, for the path was not fit for motor traffic, being the original stones laid down by the ancient Greeks. As they climbed the view spread out below them, with the ancient Roman theatre nestling at the foot. As they emerged onto the top of the hill, through the Propylaea, built as the gateway to the site, they saw the Parthenon ahead of them, its columns outlines against the blue sky. To their surprise they found that they could wander freely through the building, with its great pillars and the remains of the frescoes which had been removed to the British Museum in London. The Parthenon was dedicated to Athena, and a guide pointed out an ancient olive tree growing to one side of the building, that was said to be planted by the Goddess herself. The wandered across to the Erecthion, built on the spot where Athena and Poseidon fought over who would be the Patron of the city. Poseidon struck a rock and caused a spring to burst out, and Athena touched the ground and brought forth the olive tree. Athena was declared the victor and the city named after her. The porch was supported by five caryatids, one of which was a copy as the original had been taken by Lord Elgin at the same time as the frieze around the Parthenon. They could have stayed there all day, but they did not have the time. They took a tourist bus around the modern city, and then it was time to return to the ship, much to their disappointment. The trouble with going anywhere by sea was that they had so little time in any port. The taste only served to whet the appetite for more.

#150: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Fri Mar 25, 2005 9:07 pm

Yay thank you Pat, luffly Athens and personally I prefer the Erectheum to the Parthenon, so much more interesting Very Happy

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

Posted: Fri Mar 25, 2005 9:23 pm

Wonderful Pat! Thank you!

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

Posted: Fri Mar 25, 2005 10:32 pm

Marvellous! Sorry, but it just is! Laughing

#153: Author: pim, Location: Helmel Hampster

Posted: Sat Mar 26, 2005 1:00 am

Ally wrote:

Yay thank you Pat, luffly Athens and personally I prefer the Erectheum to the Parthenon, so much more interesting Very Happy

But Ally, you *like* huggsing ancient Greeks. I have no idea how that links to the drabble, but am loving it anyway Auntie Pat - thakn you Very Happy

#154: Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England

Posted: Sat Mar 26, 2005 9:46 pm

Fantastic! I love the way you are describing the places, makes me long to visit. *IDEA* Set up a holiday firm called 'Auntie Pat's tours' and take us on the holiday you are describing Wink

#155: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Sat Mar 26, 2005 10:46 pm

*loves Lisa's idea*

So, when's the first tour date Auntie Pat??

Laughing

Thanks for the update btw! Loved it Smile

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

Posted: Sat Mar 26, 2005 10:56 pm

Love the idea of the tour. Laughing

#157: Author: Liane, Location: Manchester England

Posted: Sun Mar 27, 2005 8:56 pm

So when are we going on this tour? It sounds fantastic. Cool

#158: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sun Mar 27, 2005 9:27 pm

I did do a school crusie during my O level year, calling at many of the ports here, but the school is not going to be a touring one I'm afraid.

By common consent they spent the short time they had in port at Akrotiri lazing on the beach and swimming. There was very little time in that port and they felt that it would take too much time to visit anywhere interesting. Besides, they could possible come back to visit during one of the school holidays.

All the girls were becoming good friends, and the adults were seriously considering building on this. Therefore Madge found herself receiving something of a deputation once the ship was at sea again.
“Fraulein Bettany, could you tell us please when you will be opening your school?” asked Herr Marani.
“In about a month I think Herr Marani,” Madge replied. “May I ask why you wish to know?”
“It is simple Fraulein. We have talked together, and we wish our girls to become pupils at your school. However, we have our little holiday to finish first, and other preparations to make. A month would be quite sufficient for those I think.”
“I will be pleased to welcome them all. They are dear girls, and they have all become such good friends. I will be pleased to welcome them when they are able to come.”
Later she spoke to Mlle, showing her bewilderment at the way her school was growing before it had even started.
“We started with just 3 girls, Elise. And now look. We have two girls from Italy and now six more from Austria. I did not think we would grow like this, and so quickly too. Especially as I am so young to be starting a school”
“I think that people feel that they can trust you, cherie. You are young, yes. But you have confidence, and it is clear that the girls like you as much as their parents do.”

There was great excitement as they neared the next port, for it would be the first time they had set foot on the continent of Africa. Madge and Jo had had a holiday here some years ago, and were looking forward to showing their friends the sights. The first place to visit was naturally the pyramids, and they took a tourist bus out of the bustling city of Cairo to where they rose out of the desert sands, inspiring awe in all who saw them.

#159: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Sun Mar 27, 2005 9:39 pm

Thanks Pat!!

Love the way this is so different yet so similar Smile

#160: Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire

Posted: Sun Mar 27, 2005 9:52 pm

Thankyou, Pat - I'm really enjoying this!

I have no idea where the school will end up - but I don't really care at the moment and I'm just enjoying the journey!

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

Posted: Sun Mar 27, 2005 9:58 pm

Wonderful, thanks Pat.

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

Posted: Mon Mar 28, 2005 12:24 pm

Loving this Auntie Pat!!! Thank you!!!

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

Posted: Mon Mar 28, 2005 5:37 pm

Épatante! Maravilhoso! Prodigioso! Eccellentissimo! Ausgezeichnet! έξοχος! *

* exochos

#164: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Mon Mar 28, 2005 7:05 pm

Have just had a mega catchup with this Pat it is wonderful. Thank you so very very much.

#165: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Mon Mar 28, 2005 7:11 pm

lovely journey so far Pat, I'm guessing that they are nearly there now as they have the girls form School at now.

#166: Author: Cath, Location: Coventry

Posted: Mon Mar 28, 2005 9:13 pm

Just caught up with this and loving it! I really like how you've, as everyone has said, made it similar yet different. Smile

Vair curious as to where they're going to end up, though!

Thank you Pat.

#167: Author: Alice, Location: London, England

Posted: Mon Mar 28, 2005 9:17 pm

Ooo, so the School's going to be in Africa?

#168: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2005 1:12 pm

Just caught up with pretty much all of this Pat - kept missing it somehow - sorry Embarassed

It's wonderful - glad you went ahead and wrote this Laughing

#169: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2005 1:32 pm

They had all known that the pyramids were big, but until they saw them in the flesh they had had no real idea of just how big they were. The sight silenced them all, and they just stood and stared. The Sphinx was also far bigger than they had expected, and although considerably weather-beaten and eroded, still inspired stunned incredulity. When they had looked their fill they walked around to the north side of the largest pyramid, Cheops or Khufu’s pyramid. There they were able to enter the passage leading to the King’s Chamber, high up inside. Mlle elected to stay outside, and Simone, having taken a look at the size of the passage, decided that she would stay with her. The others were all happy to explore and left them sitting in the shady side of the pyramid. They all found the passages narrow and claustrophobic, and Jo especially could feel the great weight of the stones above her. Secretly she was rather relieved when they came out into the daylight again, though she kept that very much to herself.

They spent most of the day exploring the Giza plateau and the ruins and pyramids there. It was late afternoon when they boarded the bus which took them back towards Cairo. Just as they reached the outskirts of the city the bus stopped to Madge’s party off outside a rather shabby hotel, whilst the others continued into the city. Waiting outside was a man in Arab dress, and Madge approached him confidently.
“Mr Abiad?” she asked.
“Naam…. Yes. And you are Miss Bettany?”
His accent, though fairly heavy, was easy to follow and Madge relaxed.
“This is the building you have found for us?”
“It is. If you would please follow me?”
He turned and opened the door behind him, leading the way into what had once been an hotel. Now it had clearly been unused for some time, for the floors were dusty and there was a complete lack of any furniture. They looked around them with interest, as they had not known quite what to expect. The entrance hall was lofty and cool, with arched openings leading off into mysterious passages. Their guide led the way forward and they emerged into a shady courtyard, clearly the centre of the building. In the centre was a pool, empty now, but with the fountain in the middle. Madge looked up at the upper story.
“There are the rooms that I need here” she asked, not sounding at all upset at the state of the place.
“Yes Miss Bettany. And I have found some women who will cook and clean for you. They will soon have it looking very nice. It is only dust that you see, you understand. Let me show you the rest.”
They followed him all around the hotel, finding enough rooms downstairs for classrooms and dining room. Upstairs there were bedrooms for more girls than were currently members of the school, so there was room to expand. Jo was delighted to find that all the rooms at the back looked out towards the pyramids, which could be clearly seen against the darkening sky. Finally, just as they were all wondering where they would sleep until the building was ready for them, Mr Abiad led the way out of the back of the complex. There, scattered across the remains of the gardens were a series of Bedouin tents.

#170: Author: Amanda M, Location: Wakefield

Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2005 1:36 pm

I have to admit that I never guessed about Egypt being the place, but it's a fantastic idea Smile

I love the way the original ideas have been woven into this one. Thanks Pat

Star Wars

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

Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2005 1:49 pm

Hurrah! They've arrived!

Thanks Pat

*wonders if the girls will learn belly dancing instead of Folk dances*

Liz

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

Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2005 1:52 pm

*giggles*

Wonderful Pat!!! So, how will the girls take to life under canvas........

#173: Author: Rachel,

Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2005 4:44 pm

Just done a major catch up session - thoroughly enjoyed the journey.

But I think the school is actually just a front and Madge is setting up as a white slave trader, selling off young girls to the various harems which are bound to lurk in Egypt.

#174: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2005 5:05 pm

I would never have guessed Egypt either!

I'm looking forward to more and wondering if Joey will save a camel rather than a St. Bernard Shocked

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

Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2005 5:56 pm

I am so glad you let them start off in the tents...look forward to seeing how they all take to this!

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

Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2005 6:06 pm

Lovely, thanks Pat. Laughing

#177: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2005 6:16 pm

Rachel wrote:

But I think the school is actually just a front and Madge is setting up as a white slave trader, selling off young girls to the various harems which are bound to lurk in Egypt.

Interesting idea not very EBD though Laughing

I didn't expect Eygpt or Africa at all Shocked

#178: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2005 7:16 pm

My ghast is totally flabbered!

I really thought they were going the long way round and would approach Austria via the Balkans!

I presume you have the equivalent of the Pfieffens (sp?) lined up and that Mr Abiad is Herr Braun in disguise?

Looking forward to seeing them settle in.

#179: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2005 7:40 pm

Brilliant! Love the description of the building Smile

#180: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2005 7:58 pm

I found a site that gave the names of various colours, but not brown (which is the english translation of braun). So he is Mr White!!!!!

#181: Author: Helen P, Location: Crewe, Cheshire

Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2005 10:14 pm

Egypt, and Bedouin tents - wow! Very Happy

Thankyou Pat - looking forward to seeing what happens next!

#182: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2005 10:16 pm

Thank you Pat lovely lovely post. Jo not liking ythe passage similar to her not liking the flowing stream when they crossed the bridge.

Glad they have arrived and loking forward to the next bit. You have done so well.

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

Posted: Wed Mar 30, 2005 6:19 am

Egypt!!!

Well, there's certainly room for upheavals and alarums and excursions!!!

#184: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Mar 30, 2005 6:50 am

Pat wrote:

I found a site that gave the names of various colours, but not brown (which is the english translation of braun). So he is Mr White!!!!!

Very subtle Razz

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

Posted: Wed Mar 30, 2005 9:57 am

patmac wrote:

Pat wrote:

I found a site that gave the names of various colours, but not brown (which is the english translation of braun). So he is Mr White!!!!!

Very subtle Razz

Just what I was going to say! Thanks Pat.

#186: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Mar 30, 2005 11:19 am

patmac wrote:

Pat wrote:

I found a site that gave the names of various colours, but not brown (which is the english translation of braun). So he is Mr White!!!!!

Very subtle Razz

*g*

Love the idea of the school being in tents!

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

Posted: Wed Mar 30, 2005 12:27 pm

*Belly Dances with joy at an Egyptian CS*

JackieJ

#188: Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England

Posted: Wed Mar 30, 2005 7:18 pm

Wow! What a setting! Will the language syllabus include Egyptian? Laughing

I was thinking that this drabble would end when they reached the destination, but there is so much potential now - a whole range of new possibilities opening up ...
I hope you realise that you have committed yourself to a year-long drabble (at least!) Wink

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

Posted: Wed Mar 30, 2005 8:13 pm

*coaxes Auntie Pat out from behind the sofa!!* Wink

#190: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Mar 30, 2005 8:35 pm

What a dreadful thought Lisa!!!

“They are funny tents,” said Jo. “They look as if they are made out of blankets or something.”
“That is what they are made of,” said Mr Abiad. “They are the tents used by the nomadic tribes, and they are here so that you may have somewhere to sleep tonight. Tomorrow there will be many people coming to make the hotel nice for you to live in, but for tonight this must suffice.”
“That is very kind of you Mr Abiad. I know that you have had trouble finding somewhere for us in time for our arrival. This will do very well, the hotel and the tents.”
“I will leave you then. You will find all that you need in the tents, and your luggage has been brought from your ship and is there too. I will see you in the morning.”
Bowing deeply he left them and disappeared back through the house.
“Coo!” said Jo. “This looks like fun. I always wanted to camp, and now I can, without joining the Guides either!”
The party went over to investigate their temporary accommodation. There were two tents, much larger than they had first appeared, for they were long and narrow front ot back. The woollen covering was made up of strips of cloths, some plain, some with patterned stripes decorating them. Inside the tents the floor was also covered in rugs. Inside the first they found that it was divided into two sections, one side having cushions set out around the walls and a meal laid ready for them, the other furnished with three camp beds, clearly intended for the adults to sleep in. the other tent was a little smaller and had beds for the five girls. There were bowls of water set out for them to wash, and they quickly freshened themselves up before returning to the larger tent to eat. Madge said a brief Latin Grace, which she intended to be used at all meals taken in the school, and the sat down and fell on the food as if they had been starved all day. The food was strange, but delicious. There was some sort of meat, that tasted like lamb, served on skewers, and big bowls of salad to go with it. The bread was flat and round, called pita bread they discovered later. There were big bowls of rice too, and by the time all the plates were empty, they felt pleasantly full. For dessert there was an assortment of fresh figs and dates, oranges and pomegranates, which finished the unusual meal of very well. When all had been cleared away, Madge decreed that the might explore the garden while there was still light, but that they must have an early night. She intended that they would all help with the chores the next day.

They had expected to find it hot sleeping in the tents, but the weave was loose so that the breeze found its way through the fabric and cooled the interiors. All of them slept like tops and woke the next day ready for anything. They had only just emerged from their beds when they heard the soft patter of slippered feet, and a gentle voice called them to breakfast. Again the food was strange. They were served with a choice of foods, Baked Beans, White soft cheese, Eggs, Corned Beef , Sweet Sesame Cake, Jam or honey and tea or Coffee . The coffee had an odd flavour which they discovered was due to the fact that it was flavoured with cardamom.

The school was full of the sound of women working as they swept and washed the downstairs rooms. By the time they had cleared away their meal most of what were to be classrooms had been finished. Madge directed the girls, with Miss Maynard and Mlle to help them, to setting out folding tables in the large room she wanted to use for a classroom. Some of the hotel furniture was still in place, and a cosy lounge was made for the mistresses to use. Another made a common room for the girls, with windows overlooking the cool courtyard. They had discovered that there were very few windows overlooking the street on the ground floor. The rooms looked out over the central courtyard, with the corridor running around the outside walls. By mid-day they were more than ready for a meal, and a rest during the hottest part of the day, back on the mattresses in the tents.

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

Posted: Wed Mar 30, 2005 9:05 pm

This is so good!

Thank you Pat.

#192: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Mar 30, 2005 9:07 pm

Thank you for setting it off Lesley!!!

#193: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Wed Mar 30, 2005 9:19 pm

Thank you Pat Kiss

Am really enjoying this!

#194: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Wed Mar 30, 2005 10:32 pm

thank you

i'm really enjoying this (as i'm sure I've already said) and love the attention to detail!

#195: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Wed Mar 30, 2005 10:50 pm

Wonderful thanks Pat. So glad you are able to take this so much further.

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

Posted: Thu Mar 31, 2005 10:48 am

Thank you Pat. This is great.

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

Posted: Thu Mar 31, 2005 10:53 am

Pat this is AWESOME - story, location and detail!

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

Posted: Thu Mar 31, 2005 3:25 pm

This is just so good Pat - really lookiing forward to more adventures once they've settled in

#199: Author: keren, Location: Israel

Posted: Thu Mar 31, 2005 4:30 pm

It will be intolerably hot.
How will they manage?

#200: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Thu Mar 31, 2005 9:00 pm