The CBB :: View topic - The Triplets

#1: The Triplets Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 12:48 am

This is the first SCS drabble I've ever tried to write. I hope it doesn't bring up any upsetting memories for anyone, but it's something I think about quite often and I wanted to explore how the Triplets would cope with it.

“Margot! Are you in?” Hearing no reply, Con pushed the front door open fully and turned to survey the shopping bags she had placed on the drive.

“I suppose I’ll have to carry them in myself then. Considering there’s only two of us living here, we seem to go through an awful amount of stuff! And I’m sure the shopping never used to be so much bother – but then I was never this old before!” With a heartfelt sigh she picked up the first two bags and carried them through to the kitchen. As she was putting the shopping away, she noticed a postcard lying on the worktop. Con smiled as she remembered that Len was due back today. Even after forty years of separate, married lives, they, along with Margot, their third triplet, still shared that wonderful closeness that had helped them through so much over the years. More and more often recently, Con had wondered how she would have coped without her sisters, especially since Roger had died, and although she felt selfish as she did so, she gave thanks that Margot had not entered the Church as she had planned. Of course, the circumstances surrounding that decision could not have been worse, but… Con shook all such thoughts from her head, and turned her attention to the postcard. It always made her laugh that even with all of today’s advances, they still couldn’t deliver a postcard before its sender arrived back in the country. She flipped it over and began to read.

‘Hi girls! You wouldn’t believe how much fun we’re having here! I can see why they call it the city that never sleeps! Of course, we’re behaving rather more sedately, but the atmosphere is wonderful! We’ve done all the usual sights – the Met and the Guggenheim among them – and we’re off to a show tonight – 42nd Street. We thought we should see a true Broadway musical while we’re here on Broadway! Must rush now – Reg is looking at his watch rather pointedly! I’ll see you both soon, Love Len

Con suppressed a surge of jealousy as she thought of her sister and brother-in-law enjoying themselves in New York. It was a place she and Roger had always wanted to visit but they had never had the money, nor, ultimately, the time. Con switched on the kettle and sank into thoughts of her late husband. Roger had died five years earlier, but he was never far from Con’s thoughts. She was startled out of her reverie by the sound of someone running downstairs.

“Margot? Well you could have come when I called! I’ve just had to carry all the shopping in and put it away, and you’ve been upstairs all this time…”

“Con, shut up!” As Margot entered the room, Con noticed how flustered her sister looked. Margot’s usually neat, red curls were flying in all directions and her eyes were full of concern. She was also having some difficulty breathing.

“Margot, are you alright? Come and sit down. You know you shouldn’t run downstairs like that.” However, tempting as a sit down was, Margot ignored her triplet, marched through to the living room and turned the television on. As she began to flick through the channels she heard Con follow her.

“Look, I’m sorry Con. It’s just…I just heard something on the radio and I need to check…It’s…When does Len get back?”

“Len? Today.”

“Do you know what time? Oh, this stupid thing! Why did we ever get cable?”

“Because I like the extra channels. And no, I don’t know what time. Does it really matter?”

“Yes. Oh, I’m getting nowhere here. Find the BBC for me please.” She thrust the remote at Con, who pushed the required buttons and the channel appeared on screen. “See, it’s quite simple. All you…” She broke off as the images on screen registered with her. She looked at Margot in horror, then turned back to the TV, just in time to see a second plane hit the World Trade Centre.

Last edited by Donna on Fri May 06, 2005 5:10 pm; edited 6 times in total

#2: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 7:41 am

That's a scary start, Donna. Very realistic in how people learnt of 9/11. Is this thread going to need a serious tissue warning? *Has a quiet wibble for Len and Reg*

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

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 8:41 am

Me too, Donna. *joins patmac in the wibbling corner*

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

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 9:32 am

Oh dear... Confused

#5: Author: Kate, Location: Ireland

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 10:32 am

*joins the wibbling throngs*

#6: Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 11:35 am

O no! Scary but realistic. Is there room for another in the wibbling corner?

#7: Author: pim, Location: Helmel Hampster

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 11:52 am

*crawls under the desk to wibble* Thanks Donna.

#8: Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 12:08 pm

Oh Gosh! Joins the wibblers

#9: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 1:06 pm

Oh gosh! that's pretty much how I found out! Steve rang me at work to put the TV on, instead of Teletext, and we had it on, with the sound up, for the rest of the day. (I work in a college library!!).

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

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 1:15 pm

*joins Pim under the desk* *wibbles about Len* *Asks for some more*

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

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 1:18 pm

*wibbles & peers under the desk to see if there's any more space* May we have some more please? Liz

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

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 2:26 pm

Bashes large hole in wall into next room so wibbling corner fits all who need it.

#13: Author: Alex, Location: Manchester, UK

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 2:57 pm

I know someone this happened to. My boss had her niece and nephew staying with her as her brother and sister in law were in NY and the only place he'd wanted to go was the WTC. They were all up all night trying to phone America but all the lines were jammed. They finally got through at about 8 am, fortunately they were both ok. She was in a bit of a state at work the next day.

#14: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 3:08 pm

This is a great start, Donna. I'm joining in with the wibbling. Oh, I desperately need some chocolate.

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

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 4:02 pm

*joins the wibbling mob* Please post some more Donna!

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

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 4:06 pm

*Wibbling too* Some more would be great!

#17: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 4:35 pm

Thanks everyone - I feel a bit more secure about posting it now. I have the next couple of parts written, and if I get a chance I'll post them soon-ish (I'm on a different computer at the moment) - but don't hold your breath, as it could well be next weekend (just got a full week of supply work, and I'm already working 6-10pm Mon to Fri - I don't think I'm going to have much time!)

#18: Author: Elzbie, Location: London

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 4:40 pm

Oh well, we can sit quietly and wait. Looking forward to more though! I really hope they are ok.

#19: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 5:16 pm

Very touching and emotional start Donna - thank you.

#20: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 5:37 pm

Brilliant, Donna! I'm sop glad you decided to write this. More as soon as soon as you are able! Very Happy

(no, that is NOT gloating- I knew she was gonna write this but that's all! Razz

)

#21: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 6:37 pm

*holds breath* That brings back some memories. I'm looking forward to more when you can (I think)

#22: Author: Signa, Location: Lily ponds, Bosherston

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 6:42 pm

WOW!!!! Does Reg have his trusty mobile phone with him?

#23: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 7:53 pm

Lisa_T wrote:

Brilliant, Donna! I'm sop glad you decided to write this. More as soon as soon as you are able! Very Happy

(no, that is NOT gloating- I knew she was gonna write this but that's all! Razz

)

Scared Lisa? Shocked

#24: Author: claire, Location: South Wales

Posted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 8:21 pm

Next weekend? Can't you post at work or something? Have a horrible feeling about this, if things do go the way I fear I wonder how the remainding triplets would cope

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

Posted: Tue Nov 16, 2004 11:55 am

*joining those wibbling under desks and in corners*Donna, this looks really good look forward to seeing more!

#26: Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge

Posted: Tue Nov 16, 2004 12:05 pm

*wibbling* (lots) Shocked

thank you Donna

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

Posted: Tue Nov 16, 2004 9:24 pm

I didn't find out 'til the local radio station rang up to speak to one of the Lecturers whose specialty was International Terrorism, I was working in the Politics dept at the time, kept the BBC news on the internet for the rest of the day. *joins the wibblers* Looking forward in an apprehensive way to this. JackieJ

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

Posted: Tue Nov 16, 2004 10:34 pm

Quote:

Looking forward in an apprehensive way to this.

Jackie, that sums up exactly how I feel too. Donna, thankyou for deciding to have a go at this. It promises to be very compelling. *Wibbling along with everyone else*

#29: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 4:48 pm

OK, managed to use the right computer this time, so you can have a bit more! Claire, I can't post in work as I don't have computer access as a supply teacher Sad

Thanks for all the comments everyone!

Len was tossing and turning in her bed, trying to ignore the fly that persisted in buzzing in her ear. “Go ‘way!” she muttered, flapping her hand around her ear. “Tryin’ sleep.” It didn’t help however, and she slowly started to rise from her slumber. As she did so, she suddenly realised that the fly was, in actual fact, the telephone. She made a grab for it, just as it stopped ringing.

“Drat!” She dialled 1471, only to find there was no number stored. Fully awake by now, Len stumbled into her dressing gown and slippers and made her way downstairs and into the kitchen. She grimaced a little as she caught sight of herself in the mirror.

“So many wrinkles! Ah well, at least I know Reg still finds me attractive!” The grimace transformed into a cheeky grin, taking years off her face, but the huge piles of post which still lay on the table where she’d left it in the early hours soon made her groan. “Well Len m’girl, that’s what you get when you go gallivanting for two weeks.” She smiled as she realised she was talking to herself again and was about to deal with the post when she saw the answering machine flashing.

“I’ve only been back a few hours! Who on earth needs me that desperately?” Her curiosity increased as she realised there were seven messages and she pressed play.

“Len, it’s Con. If you’re there, please pick up the phone. Maybe you’re not home yet. Please phone me as soon as you can.”

“Len, it’s Con again. Just checking. Phone me please.”

“Mum, I’ve just seen the news. If you’re home, please phone me as soon as possible. I need to know you and Dad are OK.”

“Len, it’s Steve. Need to hear from you ASAP.” The other three messages followed the same pattern, but showing progressively more concern. Con (and presumably Margot), and the rest of the family were obviously worried and Len couldn’t help but wonder what about. Her first thought was something had happened to a family member, but by the end of the messages it was clear they were worried about her. Well, only one way to find out. She picked up the phone and dialled Con’s number.

“Hello?” “Con? What’s so urgent? I’ve just woken up to find my answerphone full of messages.” There was a short pause on the other end of the line as Con obviously tried to compose herself. When she did speak, there was a catch in her voice.

“Thank God you’re safe Len. We were so worried. Oh, you can’t imagine how glad I am to hear your voice.”

“But why were you so worried? Look Con, I don’t have a clue what’s going on here. I just know I had seven messages asking me to call. What’s happened?”

“Turn on the TV.”

“Which channel?”

“Doesn’t matter.” Len did as she was told, then stumbled to the sofa. She tried to speak, but instead of words, a huge sob forced its way out of her mouth.

“Len! Len, are you OK? Please speak to me Len!” Con could hear the sobs becoming more frequent, and it was some while before Len was able to speak. When she did, her sister was shocked at the change, Len’s usually beautiful voice sounding cold and dead.

“Reg is still out there.”

Last edited by Donna on Tue Mar 08, 2005 10:35 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 5:45 pm

Wibble!!!!!! Donna!!!!! Just when I though everything was going to be okay!!!

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

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 6:43 pm

Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaargh! *Also had been lulled into a false sense of security* Thanks Donna Liz

#32: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 7:01 pm

OMG! I'm sure we all have horrid memories of that day. We spent it at work with the TV on and vainly trying to get through to clients we know well in Washington and knowing we couldn't get through to the others who worked in the WTC. that was a cliff and a half, Donna. PS we all understand RL priorities but we're all wibbling!

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

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 7:07 pm

mutter mutter mutter...Donna's been at that dratted cliff-school run by Lesley! I remember this night all too well...a newsbreak interrupted in the middle of The West Wing. After about an hour's watching I got on the net, and on downloading my email found one from my friend Sonja. She'd sent it at 8.35am NY time. Last email she sent to anyone as far as I could find out later. I was literally on my knees with a rosary for the next several hours, although once the towers went down, I knew I should be praying for her soul rather than her safety. She was in the second to collapse.

#34: Author: pim, Location: Helmel Hampster

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 7:11 pm

*wails and wibbles*

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

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 7:14 pm

ERK.

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

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 7:14 pm

*hugs Sophoife* Liz

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

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 7:37 pm

*also hugs Sophoife*

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

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 7:52 pm

((((Sophoife)))) Can remember days and days when all I did when at home was watch Sky news. All anyone spoke of was the atrocity. Went on holiday to Cyprus the following week and never seen the airport so tense. Donna, thank you.

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

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 8:15 pm

Eeeek..... Shocked

Thank goodness for Jackie's trampolines Smile

*Hugs Sophoife* - I remember everyone on the mailing lists I was on frantically trying to check that all the NY members were safe and well. One person on Girlsown reported that she could actually see all the smoke from her window - that made it feel even realler to me somehow than seeing it live on the TV. Please let Reg be OK - but something tells me that even if he is, we (and Len) are going to be a while finding out... Confused

#40: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 8:39 pm

*chokes* Donna this is beautiful but I'm sorely tempted to follow Vikki's tactics and call you a variety of names. What a cliff!!! Get back asap and tell us what happened with Reg! *hoping he survived, hoping he didn't go up with the firemen after the first tower went*

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

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 8:54 pm

Lisa_T wrote:

*chokes* Donna this is beautiful but I'm sorely tempted to follow Vikki's tactics and call you a variety of names. What a cliff!!!

*indignant splutter!* Oi!!! WHEN did I call Donna any names? *mutters about slanderous Irishers!* Wink

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

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 9:00 pm

remember hearing at work and then going home and watching it for hours on TV - sort of expecting Sylvester Stallone to emerge from the basement with a body under one arm and a machine gun under the other. Took ages to sink in. Cousin trapped upstate and his girlfried only a block or so away from the towers - altho one benefit was we discovered he had a girl!!!!! another cousin ended up flying with the Air Patrols over NY scary stuff

#43: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 9:22 pm

When we were in NY in 1999 my sister and I had coffee in the mall underneath. We were going up to the view point but it rained so there was no view Went up the Empite State instead.

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

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 10:12 pm

You got me as well. I thought everything was going to be alright. *wibbles some more* BTW Helen, I think Jenny has responsibility for the trampolines, I'm the one who does the drabble abseiling training. JackieJ

#45: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 10:20 pm

I didn't say you'd been calling Donna names, Vikki. Only that you call names. One beginning with 'r' being in mind... Wink

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

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 10:52 pm

*Wibbles* Poor Len Confused

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

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 11:09 pm

I was just breathing a sigh of relief because Len was safe and now I'm back to holding my breath again.

#48: Author: Kate, Location: Ireland

Posted: Wed Nov 17, 2004 11:17 pm

Hey! Vikki! Nothing wrong with being Oirish! I'm all wibbly, Donna - this is so real. I heard in school. It was the scariest moment - day - of my life.

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

Posted: Thu Nov 18, 2004 10:35 am

*Joins in the wibbling* I hope Reg will be ok.

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

Posted: Thu Nov 18, 2004 12:14 pm

Kate wrote:

Hey! Vikki! Nothing wrong with being Oirish!

I never said there was!!! But Lisa IS being a bad example!! Wink

#51: Author: Kate, Location: Ireland

Posted: Thu Nov 18, 2004 12:17 pm

We-ell, she's not strictly representative. )

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

Posted: Thu Nov 18, 2004 12:21 pm

*grin* Thank goodness! Imagine more than one of her? Shocked

(love ya really Lisa! Kiss

)

#53: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Thu Nov 18, 2004 12:30 pm

*shivers* Well Len is safe at least (and how awful for the family waiting and wondering, not hearing and not knowing is horrible). Not sure this is better though really, poor poor Len.

#54: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2004 2:13 am

Thought I'd just take the opportunity to apologise for not commenting on other people's drabbles - it's taking me so long to catch up, I don't actually have time to then comment!

“Len, you don’t know that Reg was anywhere near that part of Manhattan, never mind near the Towers. He will be alright.”

Len looked at Con with scorn in her eyes. “If he’s alright, why hasn’t he phoned me to say so? He’d know I’d be worried.” Her two sisters glanced worriedly at each other. Len was still speaking in that dead voice, and they knew from past experience that if she didn’t snap out of it in some way, she’d be heading for a breakdown. Margot tried to reassure her.

“The phone lines are probably down. Even if they’re not damaged, they’ll be jammed with people trying to speak to their families. You need to give him some time.”

“You don’t understand. Our hotel was part of the complex. It was early in the morning over there – he would have still been there!” The last sentence was shouted, giving her sisters a momentary glimmer of hope that her unnatural calm was breaking. The hope was short-lived however, and as Len continued to sit there, unmoving, Con and Margot moved away into the kitchen.

Following Con and Len’s phone conversation, Margot and her sister had immediately rushed over to Len’s house to help and comfort her. So far Len was refusing both, and the other two were nearing desperation. They quietly watched her from their vantage point in the kitchen. Even at nearly 62, Len was still an attractive woman. Unlike Margot, her hair had lost its colour, but her grey locks served to give her a stately appearance and by some coincidence, matched her eyes beautifully. She was still slender, and usually carried herself with authority, something which was left from her teaching days. In contrast, Con always felt rather dowdy. She had not had the same luxuries as her sister, and the strain showed in both her face and her carriage. She had become a moderately successful writer, and still received royalties from the books and television plays she had written, but the long family she had raised had taken its toll. Margot was different again. Like Len, she was still slim, but her figure seemed to add to her frailty. Although she had chosen not to dedicate her life to God, the urge to help others was still present and after she had completed her medical degree she had joined the Red Cross. Her work became well known, and she was even honoured by the Queen, but her own health suffered as a result of her endeavours and Margot had been forced to retire early. She worked hard to keep her medical knowledge up to date however, and now she intended to use it to help her sister if she could.

“She can’t go on like this Con. We have to break that calm.”

“I know. I think it would be simpler if there was some news – even if it wasn’t what we wanted to hear.”

Margot looked at Con curiously. “Do you really think so? I’m not sure it would make a difference. Don’t you remember what happened when…I mean, last time. We can’t let her go through that again.” Con began to reply, then changed her mind. She knew what Margot was referring to – how could she not? She usually tried not to think about it, but under the circumstances, it was difficult to keep it from her mind. She glanced at Margot, and knew that she too was thinking of that awful time.

Last edited by Donna on Tue Mar 08, 2005 10:39 pm; edited 1 time in total

#55: Author: Kate, Location: Ireland

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2004 10:38 am

Thanks Donna. Poor Len! I feel sorry for Con now too, if she had a hard life, I've such a soft spot for her.

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

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2004 11:31 am

Thank you Donna - feel sorry for Con too, and of course extremely curious about the incident that caused Len's breakdown before...

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

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2004 12:11 pm

*Wibble* What happened before?? Poor Con & Margot Sad

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

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2004 12:14 pm

honoured by the Queen? Is Margot Dame Mary Margaret Maynard or is she MM Maynard MBE/OBE? (keeping myself from wibbling by concentrating on the minutiae)

#59: Author: pim, Location: Helmel Hampster

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2004 12:29 pm

*wibbling* *wibbling a lot*

#60: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2004 12:39 pm

*joins the wibblers* Also intensely curious about all the past history.

#61: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2004 2:10 pm

Wibbling vigorously, wanting to know the history as well.

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

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2004 2:18 pm

*wibbling violently* but not too much to ask for MORE! Liz

#63: Author: LadyGuinevere, Location: Leicester

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2004 2:44 pm

Extreme wibbling from me as well! Pretty please with a cherry on top could we have some more? ~LadyG

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

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2004 3:47 pm

*wibbles LOUDLY and begs for more!!!*

#65: Author: Guest,

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2004 4:51 pm

*snickering at Vikki* That was beautiful, Donna. Don't ever say you can't write drabbles again!!!!! *abandons wibbling and resorts to chanting*

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

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2004 4:55 pm

Wibbling from me too! More drabble would be muchly appreciated Very Happy

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

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2004 7:42 pm

*Wibbling* May we please find out either the cause of Len's previous breakdown in the next post, or what has happened to Reg? Very Happy

#68: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2004 10:07 pm

Cazx wrote:

*Wibbling* May we please find out either the cause of Len's previous breakdown in the next post, or what has happened to Reg? Very Happy

possibly, possibly! ) The next section is written, but it needs to be typed up and then I'm waiting for a response to a PM Come on, it would be a very short drabble if I told you everything at once! Smile

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

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2004 10:43 pm

DONNAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA I thought that was going to be more! Liz *still wibbling*

#70: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 1:22 am

argh! BIG BIG wibbles!

#71: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 1:47 am

Excellent drabble Donna - personally I'm going to assume that Reg is dead unless I hear otherwise, that way I won't have to wibble. Also very curious about what happened in the past.

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

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 2:53 am

Argggggh. Wibble. And to think I just wished Reg dead in The Village Boys Tale part 2. I didn't really mean it!!! (much) Like everyone else I am reflecting on 11/9. Matt was at a meeting in Qld, staying overnight at the Officer's Mess. He rang me just as they were locking down the base and going onto high alert. I could hardly believe it when I turned the TV on. I really liked a line in "Gunpowder treason and plot" last night. It was along the lines of "They call themselves martyrs and belive they immediately ascend to heaven. Sounds too easy". Still relevant.

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

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 9:57 am

*Also wibbling* Please reveal the past history Donna very very quickly!!

#74: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 10:02 am

A whole weekend and only one post?!! You're too cruel, Donna! *joins those waiting with bated breath to find out what happened previously*

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

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 8:56 pm

This is great Donna.

#76: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 10:46 pm

Thanks to Lisa_T for looking this over for me

1959

“What’s wrong?”

Jack Maynard had happened to glance up from his own mail to see his wife reading a letter with a rather queer expression.

“Nothing’s wrong,” Joey replied. “It’s just a letter from Con and…well it reminded me how much I miss all three of them. I know they’ve been away for over a year now, and I know they’re back every vacation, but they’re still my babies Jack! And the house seems so empty at the moment – even Claire has started nursery now. You know how I like having lots of people around.”

“Well in a few more months you’ll have plenty to occupy you!” As Jack spoke, he moved round to Joey’s side of the table and placed his hand protectively on her stomach. There was quite a bump there by now, and as he crouched next to his wife, Jack felt the baby kick. “See, even the baby’s warning you!” They both laughed and Jack got up. He had a busy day ahead at the San and he wanted to get started.

“Right, I’m off. I can’t be sure what time I’ll be back – hopefully in time for Abendessen, but you know what it can be like. I rather think old Mr. Keating is in for a tough time.” He looked at Joey and saw understanding in her eyes.

“Is it bad then?”

“Looks that way. We’ll know more after today.” Jack bent and kissed his wife. Married to a doctor for more than twenty years, Joey knew better than to keep him with questions. She was worried all the same. Mr. Keating had a grand-daughter at the School, and they were all in all to each other. Lorna would take bad news hard. With a sigh Joey stood up and began to clear the breakfast table. She was shooed away by her faithful Anna, who was horrified that her mistress should even attempt any work in her condition.

“Alright Anna, I’m going! I promise to sit quietly for the rest of the morning. I have proofs to be correcting anyway, though goodness knows I’ve put it off for long enough. Oh, how I hate proofs!” The familiar plaint brought a smile to Anna’s face as she began her work, and Joey took the hint, departed to her study and got down to those detested proofs.

Last edited by Donna on Tue Mar 08, 2005 10:41 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 11:17 pm

OoooH!!! THAT was an unexpected twist......

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

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 11:30 pm

*shouts loudly for Uto to come and deal with Lisa......*

#79: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 11:30 pm

*Imagination running overtime* Could be a cunning plot to divert us? *wibbles to be on the safe side*

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 5:12 am

Thanks Donna! Very Happy

#81: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 5:49 am

Donna! How about relieving some of this tension-stress? (Thanks for the post though!)

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 9:25 am

*Confuzzled* But nice to see a flashback all the same!

#83: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 9:57 am

*echoes the above* Looking forward to the next instalment Donna!

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 10:36 am

Thanks Donna *wibbles about what may happen to the baby*

#85: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 5:47 pm

Just cos you asked so nicely! Thanks once more to Lisa_T *runs and hides*

She was still hard at it three hours later when Hilda Annersley entered the room. Joey looked up quickly to see who it was and greeted her friend with a cheery ‘Hello! Be with you in two shakes,’ before she looked back to her work.

“Joey.” There was a note in Hilda’s voice which made Joey look up sharply. When she did so, she noticed that her old Headmistress had obviously been crying and ran over to her.

“Hilda, what on earth is it? Is there something wrong at school? It’s not, not Nell is it?”

“No Joey, there is nothing wrong at the School.” Hilda spoke very quietly and Joey, close as she was, had to strain to hear her. “Sit down please Joey. I have something I must tell you.” Joey did as instructed with a strong sense of foreboding.

“I had a telephone call from Reg Entwhistle ten minutes ago, and he told me there had been an – an accident. Joey, I, I don’t know how to say this.”
But she didn’t have to. Joey, with a sudden understanding of Hilda’s news had let out a long, low moan and was rocking in her seat with her arms around herself. She barely heard Hilda’s next words, or noticed when she came closer to Joey.

“They don’t know what happened Joey. When Jack didn’t arrive for work they checked here with Anna and then went to see if they could find him. They found the car off the road. They think he,” Hilda paused before she said one of the most difficult things of her life, “…died instantly. Joey, I’m so sorry. Reg thou…” She had to stop there, as Joey flung herself out of her chair and launched herself at Hilda, fists flying.

“Why are you saying this? It’s not true, it can’t be true! You’re lying! You’ve always been jealous of us because we’re so happy together and you’re stuck alone at the School. I don’t believe it! I don’t believe you! I don’t! I don’t! I, I can’t!” With this last Joey collapsed against her friend, and Hilda enfolded her in her arms, holding the sobbing woman close. The sobbing continued for half an hour, during which time Hilda persuaded Joey to sit down again. It seemed obvious to Hilda that if Joey was to continue she would make herself ill and realised she must do something to stop the younger woman from becoming hysterical.

“Hush Joey. You must stop this crying.” The voice from her schooldays somehow registered, and Jo did her best to obey. Hilda found a handkerchief which she passed to Joey before continuing.

“I know it is difficult – the most difficult thing you’ve ever had to face, but you must be strong for the children and the new baby. Jack is with God now – and God is there for you, to help you through this loss.”

“God?” Joey’s voice was harsh. “What use is God? I don’t want Him, I want Jack. Was it not enough that He took so many of my friends during the War? Not enough pain when He nearly took Jack in 1942? Or when Phil was so ill only a few years ago? God means nothing to me anymore, as I mean nothing to Him. Nothing!”

“Joey…”

“I don’t want to hear it Hilda. Now I’d like to be on my own for a while.”

“What about the children? Yours and Jack’s children. They have to be told. I’ll tell the girls at school if you wish, but they will need their mother.”

“I can’t deal with it now Hilda. Tell Madge and she can do it.” With that Joey left the room and walked slowly up the stairs. Hilda heard her enter the bedroom and lock the door.

Last edited by Donna on Tue Mar 08, 2005 10:45 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 6:22 pm

aaaaargh!!!! Wibble!!! I did NOT see that coming!!!!!

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 7:08 pm

Picks herself up dazedly from the bottom of the cliff

#88: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 7:13 pm

totally gobsmacked! I never thought of that either. thank you. I think!

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 7:28 pm

Just when everything was so nice. Hate to say it, but poor Joey.

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 8:18 pm

Poor Joey, but surely she will have to be there for the children? Remembering how badly she reacted in Highland Twins - it's likely she'll fade away herself, she and Jack were everything to each other, to the detriment of even their children. Crying or Very sad

#91: Author: Alex, Location: Manchester, UK

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 8:45 pm

Will Joey lose the baby? Not surprised you ran and hid Donna! Get back here!

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 9:37 pm

*wringing out a soggy tissue and wiping eyes again* Thanks Donna Liz

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 10:19 pm

*Stunned* That was brilliantly done, very steep drop, sudden and unexpected and excently written as well. Jack and joey were all in all to each other weren't they. Will she cope with this or will she fall to pieces, and how will she deal with the children's reaction, is this what caused len to breakdown?

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 10:47 pm

Wow that was unexpected! Looking forward to seeing the consequences of Jack's death.

#95: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 10:52 pm

*snickers at all the panic* you poor things.... How does it feel to be on someone else's cliff for a change, Lesley....? Very Happy

#96: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 11:16 pm

This isn't just a cliff! It's the twin towers, AND whatever traumatized Len before, AND whatever might go wrong with the baby, AND killing off Jack :crying:. I think Donna's taking lessons from Ellie as well!

#97: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 11:20 pm

*Decides to point out that Lisa_T is gloating and calls for Uto*

Short update - I do have more, but someone persuaded me to leave you all hanging on the cliffs. Smile

Wise in her generation, Hilda decided to leave Joey be and went to make the difficult phone call. The result was that Madge, after she had got over her initial shock, agreed to break the terrible news to those members of the family who were in England and fly over to Switzerland with them as soon as possible. She agreed with Miss Annersley that it would be best for Joey if her children were close to her. A second phone call ensured that the Maynard children at the School would be told as gently as possible before being brought over to Freudesheim – if they were in a fit state to do so - to be with their mother. Her first thought had been to ask Nell Wilson to travel to school, but the St. Mildred’s girls were on a trip to Berne with their head and wouldn’t be back until late. Wishing her friend was with her now, Hilda took a chair upstairs and sat vigil outside Joey’s room.

Last edited by Donna on Tue Mar 08, 2005 10:46 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 11:25 pm

*wibble* Oh, and I have poked 'someone' on MSN on behalf of all of us!!!!!!!!

#99: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 11:34 pm

Well, i still know what's coming next...... Crying or Very sad

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 11:35 pm

Thanks Donna And, Thanks Vikki *passes over stick-sharpener in case it's needed* Liz

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

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 4:52 am

Lisa_T wrote:

*snickers at all the panic* you poor things.... How does it feel to be on someone else's cliff for a change, Lesley....? Very Happy

Good Lisa - I always enjoy cliffs. tongue

Feel very sorry for Joey, but even more so for those around her - her grief is such that she abrogates all responsibility for her family. Lets someone else deal with it.

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

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 10:09 am

I hope you post what you wrote soon Donna, it's mean keeping us dangling like this!

#103: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 10:41 am

Fabulous cliff, Donna Shocked

Definitely wasn't expecting that one!! Poor, poor Joey ... Sad

#104: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 10:44 am

gosh, completely fell head first into that one *gets up rubbing head* poor joey, esp as there is to be a new baby *echoes hopes that she doesn't lose it*

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

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 11:52 am

You killed Jack!! *wails* Poor Joey, I hope she and the baby will be ok

#106: Author: pim, Location: Helmel Hampster

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 12:05 pm

*sobs* Donna! Not Jack! Poor everbody... Sad

#107: Author: Guest,

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 12:11 pm

Just caught up with this. Poor Maynards - they really have had a time of it haven't they. Poor Joey Sad

thanks Donna

#108: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 12:15 pm

Sorry, that was me. Could've sworn I'd logged in! Embarassed

#109: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 1:04 pm

Poor poor Joey, it's Highland Twins all over again but I guess this time he's not coming back. *huggles Joey and the other Maynards*

#110: Author: Kate, Location: Ireland

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 2:29 pm

*wibbles*

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

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 3:59 pm

Oh 'eck! Now that was a cliff! Please post some more soon Donna!

#112: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 4:06 pm

Suggest that Donna has taken her cliff-building lessons far too seriously. I hope Jo is not going to be selfish enough to leave her grief-stricken children to cope emotionally for themselves, not after all the lectures she's given to 'problem girls'.

#113: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 6:24 pm

An hour later, a scream ripped through the silent house. Hilda jumped out of her chair with a start and ran to the door. She tried the handle again and again, but it wouldn’t give.

“Joey! Open the door! I can’t do anything out here! Joey, you must let me in!” All she could hear from inside the room were moans of pain and, knowing that if her ‘Headmistress’ voice didn’t get through to Joey, nothing would, Hilda looked around in desperation for something with which to break down the door. Luckily, at that moment, Anna, hearing her mistress’s terrible cry had hurried upstairs with the master key and was able to unlock the door. Once they were inside the room they could see Joey writhing in pain on the bed.

“Anna! Go and phone the San immediately. Tell them we need the ambulance urgently. Then phone the school and tell them to keep the children there.” Anna rushed off to do as instructed and Hilda was left in the room, alone with Joey.

“Joey dearest, can you tell me where it hurts?”

Joey turned a tear-stained face to her. “It’s my baby!” she sobbed. “But it’s too early! It’s too early Hilda!” Another scream tore from her lips and Hilda Annersley was lost as to what to do. This was so far outside the realms of her experience that she began to panic slightly. Her instincts took over quickly though. As Anna returned to the room with the news that the ambulance was on its way, Hilda sent her off again, this time to get a bowl of water and a cloth. She then tried to make Joey more comfortable but as Hilda moved her friend into the centre of the bed she was terrified to see fresh blood staining the sheets where Joey had been lying. She did her best not to show her concern however, and her brisk, businesslike manner helped calm Joey down. Inside, Hilda was quaking and sent more than one prayer for help.

The prayers were answered within five minutes as the ambulance arrived and Dr. Entwhistle and Dr. Courvoisier pounded up the stairs. Their faces were grave as they took in the situation and immediately began to get Joey downstairs and into the ambulance. Anna refused to leave her mistress and travelled with her, while Hilda was to follow in the school’s runabout, after passing on an update to her recently appointed deputy.

“Oh, those poor children,” was Nancy’s first response. “And poor, poor Joey. It’s just not fair.”

“I know. How did the children take the news about Jack? And did little Claire arrive?”

“As badly as you’d expect. Matey is taking care of them at the moment, although she’s devastated herself. Claire is here, but we’ve kept her apart from the rest for now. Should we tell them the latest?”

“No, I don’t think so. I would very much doubt if they knew that Joey was expecting and it would only upset them. Look Nancy, I must get off to the San, but someone needs to pick up Madge and the triplets at the airport. Jem can’t get here until tomorrow, but Madge will be arriving soon. Could you arrange something? The triplets will need to be told everything of course. They would never forgive us if we hid anything.”

“Of course I’ll organise something. Kathie will go I should think. What do we tell the staff? Only Matey and Kathie know about Jack. Should we tell the others?”

“Yes – they need to know. And don’t forget about St. Mildred’s once they’re back. I think we should keep it from the school at large though. The Maynards don’t need that sort of attention at the moment.” Both mistresses looked grave as they thought of the large family.

“Nancy – will you pray for them? And for myself – I think I’m going to need Him.”

Nancy nodded and left to speak to Kathie and the rest of the staff. Hilda, left alone, sighed and went outside to the car.

Last edited by Donna on Tue Mar 08, 2005 10:50 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 7:03 pm

waaaaaaah!!!! Donna! What are you doing to us?????

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

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 7:09 pm

Poor everyone! Crying or Very sad

:crying:

#116: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 7:15 pm

:crying: :crying: :crying: :crying: This is awful. You won't kill them all, will you? Promise? Please let Joey be alright!

#117: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 8:09 pm

I did warn you! And Donna, I warned you too when I read the above for the first time.... Laughing

More soon please. Even better if it's a preview.. *smirk*

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

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 8:12 pm

joey can't die!!! she's the foundation stone of the school!!! **goes into a corner to cry**

Last edited by francesn on Mon Nov 29, 2004 11:06 pm; edited 1 time in total

#119: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 8:15 pm

Forgot to say above that I am very grateful to Lisa_T for beta-ing! I'm also sorry that this coming along so slowly - despite having a large chunk of this written, I've been finding it difficult to actually type it up as I've done something to my back (which is why I'm not in work now) and can't stay sat in one place for too long. As soon as it's typed and beta-ed, you shall have the next part! Smile

Thanks again for all the comments!

#120: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 8:17 pm

have you got a mic and some speech rec software? (you can get the software free on line, assuming you have a mic)

#121: Author: pim, Location: Helmel Hampster

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 8:21 pm

*hides under the desk wibbling* Donna what are you doing to us?!?!?! Hope your back gets better soon hon Sad

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

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 9:17 pm

Donnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnaaaaaaaaaaa *wibbles*

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

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 9:32 pm

Hope your back feels better soon Donna. Love the cliffs!

#124: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 10:51 pm

Thank you Donna. You are the master or should i say mistress of cliffs. Have you been having lots of lessons at Lesley's school?

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

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 11:25 pm

I think my wibbles are wibbling! Hope your back is better soon Donna. Liz

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

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:22 am

Donna!!!! please let Joey be ok!! *wibbling and wobbling*

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

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:45 am

Please let some sort of miracle occur and Joey and the baby will be ok.

#128: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 11:18 am

I do hope your back is better soon Donna. ((((hugs))))

#129: Author: Lisa_T being lazy,

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 5:44 pm

Wait til you see the next bit. It's soooo good...oh sorry. Have I been gloating again? What a shame ROFL

#130: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 8:41 pm

Lisa_T being lazy wrote:

Wait til you see the next bit. It's soooo good...oh sorry. Have I been gloating again? What a shame ROFL

You are so evil to gloat Lisa! Donna, please post more soon

#131: Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 9:13 pm

(hope your back heals quickly Kiss

)

#132: Author: Uto,

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 9:29 pm

Lisa_T being lazy wrote:

Wait til you see the next bit. It's soooo good...oh sorry. Have I been gloating again? What a shame ROFL

You're trying far too hard Lisa!

#133: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 12:48 pm

Sorry think mI posted my comments in the middle of quoting Lisa. Was trying to say that she was evil to gloat!

#134: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 5:40 pm

TRy too hard? Don't be absurd. You may think it's too much, Uto, but judging by everyone else's reaction.............................*g* Anyway, shall we start chanting?

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

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 8:08 pm

Donna - can we possibly have an insy winsy update. I'm rather precauriously balanced on the edge of this cliff!

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

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 9:24 pm

Poor Donna - hope the back is better soon anyone got a gag?? sorry Lisa Wink

#137: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 4:45 pm

Sorry it's late - this was supposed to be up Saturday! Thanks again to Lisa_T (though you're very naughty for gloating! Smile

)

“How is she, Reg?” Hilda had just arrived at the San, to be greeted by a very tired Reg Entwhistle.

“It’s not good Miss Annersley. We couldn’t save the baby but – well Joey still had to deliver it – him. She knows this, and that knowledge, on top of everything that’s already happened – I don’t know if she’ll come back from this. She’s already very weak from loss of blood and I don’t know if she’ll have the strength to fight for life. I’m sorry to be so frank,” he added as he saw the horrified look on Hilda’s face, “but I felt it would be better for you to know everything.”

“I - I see. Thank you Reg – you were quite right to tell me everything. May I see her?”

“Not at the moment I’m afraid. Miss Annersley – does Len know?”

“Lady Russell is bringing Len and her sisters home now – they should be here soon. She will have told them about Jack.”

“And the boys?”

“Sir James is travelling with them. He had to collect Margot from Edinburgh first so she could travel with the others.”

“That’s good. They may be able to help Joey.” Reg turned away to return to his duties, but Hilda stopped him before he could leave.

“Reg – you look exhausted. You should get some rest.” Hilda spoke gently, and Reg could see the wisdom in her words, but he felt unable to do as she suggested.

“I can’t – not yet. I have to take care of Joey. I owe it to – to Jack. And if the worst does happen, I must be here for Len and the others. You know how Joey and Jack helped me – I wouldn’t be here without them. So I have to stay.” Hilda placed her hand on the young doctor’s shoulder.

“I understand Reg. Nevertheless, you will be no use to anyone if you continue in this way. Take a break.” Hilda was implacable and, escorting Reg to a small room, she found a nurse who would bring some food and watched while he ate it. After his meal, Reg seemed content to rest for another half an hour, so Hilda left him and went to await the triplets and their aunt.

Last edited by Donna on Tue Mar 08, 2005 10:52 pm; edited 1 time in total

#138: Author: Robin, Location: London

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 5:25 pm

beautifully written stuff donna, although very sad. poor hilda having to deal with it all, and poor joey. hope the arrival of madge and the trips helps her.

#139: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 6:06 pm

Feeling sorry for Reg (well I would, wouldn't I!) He's just lost his mentor and a good friend and can't grieve because he's fighting for Jack's wife's life. I'm really glad he told Hilda. She needs to know as she will be a support for the family - but feeling sorry for her as well. Thank you Donna. *Wibbling about the possibilities of this drabble*

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

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 6:06 pm

Liz

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

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 8:06 pm

Thought it was coming - poor Reg and poor Hilda - both of them having to cope and not able to grieve properly because others are relying on them.

#142: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 8:09 pm

Thank you for another sad but lovely post.

#143: Author: auntie karry, Location: Stoke on Trent

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 8:32 pm

OOOOOOOH!!!!!! Wibbles still more! Poor Joey, poor baby! Crying or Very sad

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

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 9:23 pm

Poor Joey, I hope she does pull through. Crying or Very sad

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

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 10:56 pm

This is heart wrenching, but good. Crying or Very sad

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

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 1:12 am

Oh Donna - this is very sad ... Poor Jo and baby, hoping she pulls through.

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

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 9:54 am

Poor Joey and poor Hilda and Reg, I hope they have time to grieve as other will be relying on them.

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

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 11:00 am

:crying: thankyou Donna

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

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 1:47 pm

:crying:argh! Thank you, though.

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

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 2:42 pm

Wibble!!!! Poor all of them!

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

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 10:59 pm

This is so sad Crying or Very sad

I've got a horrible feeling we are going to lose Joey as well as Jack - and can well understand Len's breakdown if that is to be the case... Sad

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

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 11:33 pm

But perhaps, in some ways, it would be better if Joey didn't make it, because from what we've seen she would take Jack's death very badly indeed. Struggling to explain that in a way that doesn't sound terribly cold-hearted, but I mean it in the best possible way.

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

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 11:42 pm

Actually Emily, I agree with you - and don't think it sounds cold hearted at all. I just feel so sorry for all their children who are probably about to become orphans Crying or Very sad

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

Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 1:25 pm

Gah, I'm playing catch up, am expecting to find out whether Reg is in the towers or not, and get here to find Jack and an unborn baby dead, and Joey on the edge. *wibbles* JackieJ

#155: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Fri Dec 24, 2004 11:22 pm

Have just caught up on all of this and was hoping to avoid cliffs. How wrong can I be? Hope to see some more of this sad but wonderful story soon Donna.

#156: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Tue Jan 04, 2005 9:53 pm

First of all apologies for the lack of updates - I just haven't been able to sit here and type it up. Secondly, a warning that I'm not entirely happy with either this bit or the next, but I can't think of anything else to do with it and I thought you'd probably waited long enough! Smile

It was some hours before the triplets arrived with their aunt. Their faces were white and drawn, and Len was still crying. The other two had managed to compose themselves for the sake of their mother. Kathie Ferrars had picked them up from the airport and apart from the mistress passing on her condolences, the journey had passed in silence until Con had realised they had passed Freudesheim and were on the way to the San. Her exclamation had been answered by an apologetic Kathie, who had assumed the small group had already been informed of Joey’s current whereabouts. As the reason for Joey’s stay at San had not been divulged to Kathie, however, she was unable to offer any further explanation.

Hilda met them at the door of the San, but refused any queries until the girls had eaten something. Once they were settled, Madge moved away with Hilda for a quiet word. The old worries about her younger sister had resurfaced and there was a look of panic on the usually dignified face of Lady Russell.

“What else has happened Hilda? Why is Joey up here? It’s something more than just peace and quiet, isn’t it?” Hilda Annersley faced her friend and steeled herself to once again break some bad news.

“The baby came early, Madge,” she said quietly. “Now Joey is seriously ill and she’s not fighting it. I don’t think she wants to carry on without Jack.” The look of deep sadness on Hilda’s faced changed suddenly to alarm as Madge stumbled, then sat heavily on the nearest chair.

“The baby?” The question was answered by a shake of Hilda’s head and Madge gripped the arm of the chair as she fought the urge to cry.

“Auntie Hilda, what’s wrong with Mamma?” Neither adult had heard the triplets approach and as Con spoke they looked up suddenly. All three sisters looked lost and alone, the impression enforced by the use of the baby names which they had left behind so many years before. At the sight of them, Hilda straightened up and enveloped all three in an embrace.

“Oh my poor girls! You’ve been through so much already, but I’m afraid you need to be brave for a little longer.” With those words she led the girls to the nearest group of chairs and explained everything.

“May we see her Auntie Hilda?” Margot asked. She seemed to be the most composed, perhaps because of the medical training she had begun. Con still looked very white and alarmingly close to fainting, while Len was very quiet and wide-eyed. Although the Maynards were a very close family, Len, as the eldest, had perhaps been closest to her father and had taken the news of his death very badly. The latest news seemed to barely register with her and she moved almost mechanically.

“Yes, of course you may.” Hilda caught the eye of a passing doctor who immediately came over to escort the family members to Joey’s room. They met Reg as he was leaving the room and he ran to Len and caught her up in his arms. Len failed to respond. Nevertheless, Reg was reluctant to let go.

“Oh my darling. I’m so sorry. More sorry than I can say.” Len just stood there, unmoving, and Reg eventually admitted defeat and let her go. He showed the triplets and Madge into the room, then stood by the door in case he was needed.

Last edited by Donna on Tue Mar 08, 2005 10:55 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Tue Jan 04, 2005 10:17 pm

this is so moving i don't think there's anything you could have done to make it better, Donna

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

Posted: Tue Jan 04, 2005 10:43 pm

So sad. Thank you for continuing this Donna.

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

Posted: Tue Jan 04, 2005 10:56 pm

wow.Thanks Donna. Crying or Very sad

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

Posted: Tue Jan 04, 2005 11:16 pm

Oh this is so sad... Sad

Thankyou very much for the update, Donna. Please please post the next bit soon - especially as we know you've written it!

#161: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Tue Jan 04, 2005 11:46 pm

As you asked so nicely Helen! Smile

There was a bed against the far wall of the room and Joey’s face was just visible above the covers. She looked very small and pale as she lay there and her breathing was so faint that her visitors could barely see her chest rising and falling. As the triplets ran over to their mother’s bedside Madge turned to Reg with a horror-stricken look on her face.

“I didn’t realise it was so bad! Oh, I wish Jem were here!” She was speaking in a low undertone and Reg replied in the same way.

“I wish Sir James was here as well. I don’t know what to do – she just doesn’t seem to want to live. I’m hoping the girls will change that.” Madge sensed the desperation behind Reg’s words and unable to put her thoughts into words, squeezed his arm gently. Reg gave her an appreciative smile and they stood and watched the triplets as they crowded round the bed.

“Mamma! Please wake up! We’ve come to see you.” Con was clutching Joey’s hand as she spoke. Margot moved to join her.

“Yes Mamma! The three of us are here and we want to speak to you. Will you talk to us?” They watched as the long, black lashes fluttered and Joey began to open her eyes and wake from the unnatural sleep in which she had spent most of the day. Len had been standing back but now she rushed over in time to hear her mother speak.

“My girls? You’re here?” She was very quiet and rather hoarse, but she was unmistakably Joey. The girls smiled as they heard her voice, and tears ran down their faces.

“Yes Mamma. We came to see you.”

“That’s Con! And I heard Margot. Is Len here? Len!” The sound of her name jolted the eldest triplet out of her melancholy and she answered immediately.

“I’m here too Mamma. And Auntie Madge is here as well.” Joey began to cry, quietly at first but progressing to loud sobs as she remembered everything that had happened. The triplets made soothing noises, explained that everything would be all right but it wasn’t until Madge moved over to the bed that Joey began to calm down. The familiar voice, uttering the old familiar words that had helped in so many situations in her youth did what the children could not, and Joey fell into a deep, but natural sleep. Madge continued to repeat ‘hush Joey baba’ over and over again until it was obvious even to her that Joey’s breathing was stronger. Reg went over to join the women and one glance at Joey told him what he needed to know. He nodded to Madge and it was with great relief that he announced to the girls that Joey was now much stronger. The smiles on their faces were all the reward he needed and the doctor tried to persuade them to get some sleep. The triplets refused to leave the room however, so Reg found them chairs and placed them around the bed. Madge went to find Hilda to pass on the good news before she returned to the room herself.

Last edited by Donna on Tue Mar 08, 2005 10:57 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Tue Jan 04, 2005 11:56 pm

awwwww so lovely to see madge comforting her sister just like she did in the early books*hopes joey will now pull through*

#163: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Wed Jan 05, 2005 12:26 am

wonderful. thanks.

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

Posted: Wed Jan 05, 2005 6:59 am

Thank you Donna, so realistic too - that Madge be the one to help Joey - after all she looked on her as a mother for so long. Crying or Very sad

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

Posted: Wed Jan 05, 2005 9:16 am

I'm glad Madge was able to help but it all so sad *sniffles* Thank you Donna

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

Posted: Wed Jan 05, 2005 11:42 am

Thankyou Donna! Kiss

What a relief that it looks as though Joey is going to pull through, at any rate.

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

Posted: Wed Jan 05, 2005 2:56 pm

Ooooh, that gave me goosebumps. Thank you.

#168: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Jan 05, 2005 5:16 pm

Thank you Donna. That was lovely :crying:

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

Posted: Wed Jan 05, 2005 6:10 pm

Heaves a huge sigh of relief thankyou Donna

#170: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Thu Jan 06, 2005 12:03 am

Thank you Donna - glad Jo is getting better. Still feel sad for the triplets though.

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

Posted: Thu Jan 06, 2005 9:20 pm

Thank you Donna!!! Can't help being worried for Len though!

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

Posted: Sat Jan 08, 2005 5:25 pm

Thanks Donna Crying or Very sad

Liz

#173: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 4:56 pm

I am so sorry that this update has been so long in arriving - basically Algernon decided he didn't like the rest of the story as I'd written it and insisted they were changed when I typed them up - and then he ran away! RL events have also made me reluctant to write this next bit, but here it is finally.I'm sorry it's all been a bit depressing - I think there's light at the end of the tunnel!

It was the early hours of the morning when Joey woke again. The triplets and Madge were sleeping in their chairs, exhausted by the events of the previous day, and it wasn’t until her mother squeezed her hand that Len roused. She made to wake her sisters, but Joey stopped her.

“No, let them sleep. I want to talk to my eldest girl.” She smiled weakly at Len before continuing. "You know I love you, don’t you Len? I love all of you, very much, but you’ll always be my first-born. Sometimes I wonder if I’ve put too much pressure on you, forcing you to be a second mother to the rest – and now, now I’m going to make that harder – will you forgive me?”

“There’s nothing to forgive Mamma – I was happy to help. Now we just need to get you better…” Len broke off as Joey shook her head.

“I don’t know if I can – I need your papa so much and now he’s, now he’s, now…” Joey started to sob quietly again and Len didn’t know what to do. Then she realised with alarm that Joey’s breathing was becoming more laboured, and the shaking of the bed was no longer caused by Joey’s sobs, but by her pain. It wasn’t until she heard her mother whisper Jack’s name with the little breath she had left that Len found herself able to move and call for help. The others had woken up by now, only to be ushered out of the room by the doctors and nurses who had arrived, and they began a bewildered wait in the corridor.

Con tried to find out what had happened from Len, but her sister seemed shut off from the world. She sat there, repeating, over and over again, “I thought she was going to be OK. They said she’d be OK.” Eventually, Con just placed her arm round Len’s shoulder and sat there to await the doctor.

It was Neil Sheppard who came out to speak to them. As Madge looked at his face, she knew what he was going to say, even as she hoped against hope that she was wrong. He seemed to stand there for hours before he began to speak gently.

“Len, Con, Margot, Lady Russell – I’m very sorry to have to tell you that Joey died a few minutes ago. We did everything we could to save her, but she was haemorrhaging a great deal of blood and there was nothing we could do. I’m so sorry. Is there anyone we can call for you?” Madge started to shake her head, knowing that Jem would be on his way already, until she remembered Hilda had gone back to school.

“Hilda- at the school. She needs to be told. And…where’s Reg? He has to know as well.”

“I’ll see to it. We finally persuaded Reg to get some rest, but he’s still here. I’ll send him along if you want?” Madge nodded gratefully as Dr. Sheppard, realising the family needed some time alone, began to leave. Madge then turned her attention to her nieces, holding back the tears she was desperate to let go.

Last edited by Donna on Tue Mar 08, 2005 10:59 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 5:27 pm

*sobs* Poor everyone, Joey's death will affect so many people. Im so glad you have come back and written more and I love the title. Very Happy

#175: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 5:40 pm

:crying: :crying: :crying: I really thought she was going to get better! Thank you Donna. I'm not surprised you delayed writing that!

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

Posted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 5:40 pm

Glad you've come back to this, Donna, such a sad scene - even when expected. Crying or Very sad

Thank you.

#177: Author: Cecilia, Location: Brum

Posted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 6:27 pm

You won't believe how pale i must be now, I'm gripping the edge of my seat! I just read it from the beginning... It's Amazing! The only word that really describes it is... WOWZERS! I am really impressed! Is there any more? Sorry to be so greedy! Neutral

#178: Author: Eleanor, Location: Eastbourne

Posted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 9:10 pm

Just found this, read all of it. It's not many things that can bring tears to my eyes, but this just did. Thank you.

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

Posted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 9:10 pm

That was so sad Crying or Very sad

Poor Triplets and Madge, what's going to happen to the younger children?

#180: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 11:29 pm

Thank you for the update Donna. It is very sad but worth reading. looking forward to the next part.

#181: Author: Cecilia, Location: Brum

Posted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 10:15 am

Every time you read it through.. it gets SADDER! Crying or Very sad

I hope there is a 'light at the end of the tunnel'for the triplets after all! Well done

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

Posted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 11:09 am

Oh Donna! I've just been back to read it all, and as Cecilia says, it just gets sadder the more you read it. I'm guessing Len's breakdown is going to be triggered by Joey's giving her the responsibility for the rest of the children?

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

Posted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 1:31 pm

Thanks Donna. Hope RL is improving. Liz

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

Posted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 8:32 pm

Thank you Donna!! That was anamazing post!

#185: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 5:21 pm

sorry everyone - not an update as RL still stinks and I think the bunny has run off in disgust. Just bumping this so it can be moved into the right forum. Thank you to the nice mods!

Last edited by Donna on Sat Mar 05, 2005 9:42 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 11:06 am

Hope RL soon smells rosier for you Donna *sending hugs for Donna poke

for RL and treats for bunny* Liz

#187: Author: tiffinata, Location: melbourne, australia

Posted: Mon May 02, 2005 7:16 am

I was taking bets with myself earlier-Will she/wont she die?

Donna, hope RL is getting better- roses and chocolate bikkies on the way. Sending out a search party to track down the bunny and lots of top quality lettuce leaves to tempt it home.

Funny actually, there is an old saying in parts of Australia when people remark slangily 'the rabbit's dead' they are refering to someone being pregnant.

Is that saying occur anywhere else?

#188: Author: Liane, Location: Manchester

Posted: Mon May 02, 2005 7:50 am

wow Donna this is amazing. I have just found this and read it straight through. Of course I'm sad aboout it but it's really well written and I really hope you manage to post more soon.

#189: Author: Guest,

Posted: Fri May 06, 2005 3:13 pm

This is so sad, hope you can post more soon
RY

#190: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Fri May 06, 2005 5:08 pm

I am so bad. I'm so sorry it has taken me over two months to update this again. Algernon II (the plot monkey) has obviously been working hard however, and here it is!

On a serious note, there is a part of this update that some people may find disturbing. If it wasn't part of a drabble already in another house, it probably should belong in St Hild's. However, it is only a brief mention, and I don't plan for it to be a part of this story in the future. If that changes (and I hope it doesn't, because I really don't want to write it!) I'll move the drabble.

Oh, and I also know that it would be very unlikely that Con's request would have been granted in 1959, but I wanted the scene that will follow!

Con and Margot were sobbing, Con’s arm still round Len’s shoulders. Len, however, was rocking in her chair, saying nothing, but with eyes as wide as saucers. She had made no attempt to share her grief with her sisters, and already Madge was worrying about her. As her aunt approached though, Len began to speak.

“It was my fault. I made her cry, and that made her bleed and that’s why she died. It’s all my fault. My fault. My fault.” She continued to repeat the words again and again, and nothing Madge did or said could dissuade her. Any attempts to embrace her were shrugged off, as if Len felt she had no right to comfort. By this time, Con and Margot had calmed their own tears, and had realised something was wrong with their sister. Con tried to make Len see it wasn’t her fault, but to no avail. Suddenly, Margot realised that there was blood falling from Len’s hands and was shocked to discover that Len had been clenching her fists so hard, her fingernails had pierced her skin. When Margot tried to attend to the wounds, however, Len startled them all with her vehemence.

“NO! I deserve this! I deserve this pain. I killed Mamma!”

“You did not kill your mother Len.” The family looked up in surprise when Reg spoke, as they had not realised he’d arrived. “You know that. Stop being silly, and come here to me,” but even this matter of fact treatment had no effect. Eventually, Reg was forced to administer a sedative, and Len was admitted to a private room in the San. While he was gone, the remaining family members sat in silence for a few moments, before Margot spoke.

“What about the others? They won’t know yet – will they?” She turned to her aunt who shook her head wearily.

“They know about your father, but not this, no.”

“Then we must go and tell them. But – I’m scared. We’re only twenty – how can we look after the children? They’ll want to know what’s going to happen and I don’t know!”

“Why, we’ll look after you of course! We wouldn’t – couldn’t! - leave you to fend for yourselves and eight younger children!”

“Oh, Auntie Madge!” With a fresh storm of tears Margot and Con embraced their aunt, until Con pulled away. Her next question surprised Madge.

“Auntie Madge, d’you think we – could we - see the baby? It would seem wrong somehow if we just buried it – no, not it,” she broke off and looked questioningly at Madge, but that lady was unable to help. Luckily, at that moment Hilda arrived and after she had embraced the three women and passed on her sympathies, the question was posed to her and she was able to answer.

“Him. He was a baby boy.” Con smiled before replying.

“Thank you. I want to see the baby you see Auntie Hilda, so we don’t just bury him without seeing him. It would feel wrong. So could we?”

“I don’t know if that will be possible Con, but I shall go and ask,” Hilda answered. She came back a few minutes later. “I found Eugen Courvoisier and he says that although it’s highly unusual, he will allow it. He’ll be along in a moment to take you to the baby.”

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

Posted: Fri May 06, 2005 5:44 pm

Thank you Donna, glad you've written more of this.

Poor Triplets Crying or Very sad

Len looks as though she's heading for a nervous breakdown, and as for the children. bawling

#192: Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire

Posted: Fri May 06, 2005 5:59 pm

Very moving indeed, Donna. Thank you.

In the long run they will feel so much better for holding the baby.

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

Posted: Fri May 06, 2005 6:36 pm

*sniffles*

Thank you Donna! This must be very difficult to write!

#194: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Fri May 06, 2005 6:54 pm

Thanks sp much for the update, Donna.

Crying or Very sad

Poor, poor Len.

I want to give them all a big hug Sad

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

Posted: Fri May 06, 2005 7:22 pm

Thanks Donna.
Poor all of them Crying or Very sad

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

Posted: Fri May 06, 2005 7:23 pm

That was beautifully written Donna, Im glad they will get to see the baby and I hope its helps them in the future, even if its painful now. I hope Len doesnt continue to blaim herself *wibbles*

#197: Author: pim, Location: Helmel Hampster

Posted: Fri May 06, 2005 7:32 pm

Thank you Donna Crying or Very sad

(nice to see Algernon the Plot Monkey/Bear at work Wink

)

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

Posted: Fri May 06, 2005 10:44 pm

Donna, that was so moving and weepy. I really hope it mkaes them feel better, but I'm worried that it might make them feel even worse

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

Posted: Sat May 07, 2005 9:15 am

Thanks Donna

*sends treats for Algernon II*

Liz

#200: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat May 07, 2005 4:15 pm