The CBB :: View topic - The Village Boy's Tale Part 5 : COMPLETE 30/04/05

The Village Boy's Tale Part 5 : COMPLETE 30/04/05

#1: The Village Boy's Tale Part 5 : COMPLETE 30/04/05 Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 10:39 pm

The guard shook the young man gently. “We’re nearly at Polgarth, you’ld better get your things together.”

“ Thanks.” He replied. “I must have dozed off.”

“You’ve been out cold for the last half hour!” said the guard. “You must have been tired.”

The young man’s face flushed, emphasising the white scar tissue which covered the right side of his face from forehead to chin.

“It’s been a long journey.” He said a little defensively.

The guard withdrew, looking embarrassed and Hugh cursed his sensitivity to any reminder of his weakness. If only he could sleep at night without the nightmares!

He pulled down the little case from the luggage rack and, for the first time looked out of the window. The countryside had changed while he slept. Hills, purple with heather and brown with dried bracken, though he recognised neither, stretched to the horizon. Not a house or person in sight. For a Londoner it was alien country and he wondered, not for the first time, at the advice he had been given.

“You need peace and quiet. Good air. An enclosed community somewhere where people will learn to accept you. There’s more we can do to improve your face but not yet. You need building up. You were going to teach. Why not go back to that for a while?”

Hugh could not imagine the reaction of young boys to the face which he saw in the mirror but protest seemed too much of an effort and he found himself heading for the wilds of Yorkshire for an interview which could only have one result. Rejection. Again!

He had seen it in the eyes of friends when he had paid a brief visit home the previous month. They didn’t know where to look. They couldn’t see the pre-war Hugh behind the damaged face. He had cut his visit short and returned to the hospital early with a spurious excuse that his leg hurt.

Of course it hurt! The tendons were foreshortened and he could not completely straighten it. Walking was still an effort and pulled the damaged tissues. No one said anything in criticism but he felt that he had failed a test in not being able to cope, even with friends.

Now the train was slowing and he limped along the corridor to the nearest door. The guard was before him waiting to open the door for him and, tactfully did not help as Hugh alighted.

Hugh looked back at him and forced himself to speak “Thank you. I’m sorry I was a bit short with you. I was only half awake.”

A beam wreathed the honest face. “That’s all right, young Sir! I’m like a bear with a sore head in the mornings myself.”

Hugh suddenly realised that the guard was looking straight at him with no revulsion and wondered if McIndoe might be right. People who did not know him would see him as he was now, not as he had been. He smiled feeling the scar attempt to stretch for the first time in months.

Heartened, he limped out of the station and looked for a taxi. There were none to be seen. The village was quiet and, to a city bred boy, seemed strange. He found himself in a large open square with stone buildings bounding it, all facing inwards as though in defence and he was caught by the incongruous thought that it resembled a circle of wagons, drawn up against an Indian attack as he had seen them in the Western films when he and Terry Pritchard used to go to Saturday Morning Pictures at the Luxor.

It was some time before he found that this was nearer the truth than he had imagined. This village had once been in the path of armies and the villagers had brought their animals into the centre of town to protect them from pillaging.

He heard the car long before it came into view. A grinding of gears, several continuous discordant rattles and an occasional backfire heralded the arrival of an old bullnose Morris.

He stared in amazement as it lurched into the square. One mudguard was completely missing and the others sported dents and scratches. One of the rear doors was tied with string and behind the wheel was the hunched figure of a man with a pipe clenched between his teeth and his brow frowning with concentration.

Seeing Hugh standing with his small case, he took one hand from the wheel, waved, swerved, and missed a lamppost by a fraction of an inch. Hastily replacing his hand on the steering wheel, he veered across the centre of the square, screeched to a halt and Hugh had to jump back to avoid being knocked down.

“Mr Douglas?” he called, revving the engine in desperation. ”Come on, hop in. I daren’t stop her or she’ll never start again.”

Hugh tried to open the passenger door and failed. The driver leaned across to open it from the inside, the car jerked forward and the engine died. With a sigh of resignation, he unfolded himself from the car, kicked it, and came round to Hugh, smiling with his hand outstretched.

“Sorry about that. I don’t drive much.” He said as he shook Hugh’s hand. “I’m John Wheeler, Head of Chaucer House where you’ll be teaching. I’m so glad you’ve come but how we are to get back to the school I’ve no idea. I can never get cars to start. I don’t think they like me!”

Hugh recovered his startled wits and returned the handshake. John Wheeler was very tall, thin and sported a thick head of black unruly hair. His eyes were of a piercing grey and he had the complexion of a man who spent his life out of doors.

“I may be able to get it going.” Hugh offered. “I’ve some idea of the inside of the engine of this make.” and he stripped off his jacket and went round to open the bonnet. It was quickly obvious that this car had been sadly neglected and Hugh had to get out the toolkit and remove the spark plugs to clean them. After some tinkering, he eventually started the engine and climbed into the passenger seat (after freeing the lock). J

ohn Wheeler climbed into the driving seat and they set off with an almighty lurch. The journey across the square was not too bad, at least there was plenty of room. Once they reached the narrow streets, Hugh took hold of the doorframe and braced himself.

“Streets like these were not meant for cars.” His companion said, cheerily. “If I drive on the left I end up on the pavement so I just go straight down the middle.”

Once out of town, they went along a main road for a short distance and then turned off into a lane, bounded by stone walls. John Wheeler was talking all the while but Hugh was not listening. He was too busy trying not to grab the steering wheel when a wall came too close. Eventually they turned into a wide driveway and Hugh relaxed a little. Too soon!

Making one last turn, the car careered onto a gravel forecourt, skidded, and came to a halt resting against a low stone wall bounding the lawn.

Last edited by patmac on Sat Apr 30, 2005 11:05 am; edited 57 times in total

#2: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 10:53 pm

This looks very interesting, PatMac. I'll look forward to seeing more of Hugh.

#3: Author: Caroline OSullivan, Location: Reading, Berkshire, UK

Posted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 10:57 pm

Thanks PatMac Very Happy

Look forward to finding out more about Hugh (and Reg of course)

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

Posted: Mon Feb 07, 2005 11:21 pm

Lovely -was hoping the next bit of this would start soon - thanks Pat.

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

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 1:09 am

Gosh! Someone who is a worse driver than me! Looking forward to finding out more about Hugh. Thanks PatMac.

#6: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 2:27 am

Thanks Patmac! Have been looking forward to this.

#7: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 5:53 am

Wow, I wasn't expecting this so soon! Thanks. That John's a menace! Sounds as though they'll be VERY glad to get Hugh. (waiting for Reg, though Smile

)

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

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 10:23 am

Thanks Pat, looking forward to hearing more about life at Polgarth!

#9: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 12:37 pm

Excellent - SOOO glad this had started. Have been looking forward to it. Thanks Pat. Very Happy

Looking forward to hearing all about hos Reg gets on at Polgarth, and also learning more about Hugh and John. *giggling at John's driving!*

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

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 12:57 pm

Thank you Pat. Hugh looks interesting as does John Wheeler. Am looking forward to seeing Reg's life at Polgarth.

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

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 3:51 pm

Yay! *happy dance* Very Happy

Thanks PatMac Liz

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

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 5:19 pm

Excellent!!!!Thank you Pat!!!!Looking forward to getting to know Hugh better!

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

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 5:59 pm

Oooh - until I read the bit about being city bred, I wondered if this was going to be Hugh McDonald, couldn't remember if he survived like Jack or not. *Just checked and he didn't Sad

* Hope there's going to be lots more of this, it's so good.

#14: Author: jonty, Location: Exeter

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 6:55 pm

This looks brilliant, looking forward to more!!!!

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

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 7:34 pm

It's back, hurrah! "For she's a jolly good fellow...."

#16: Author: Ray, Location: Bristol, England

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 8:01 pm

Firstly: Yay, it's back. Secondly: I've been driven by someone who drives like John does. It's scary. Thirdly: I'm intreagued by Hugh - can't wait to see how this is all going to affect Reg Smile

Ray *eager for more*

#17: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 8:35 pm

John Wheeler again unfolded his lanky frame, kicked the car affectionately and came round to where Hugh was struggling with the door and, ineffectually, tried to help. “We’ve no one who knows anything about cars now.” He explained as he stood aside for Hugh to get out. “Carter, who loved the things, went into the Navy when war was declared. A pity really because we’ve got boys who would like to learn about them as well.” He spoke casually and Hugh missed the slight smile that came to his lips as he saw Hugh’s face lighten.

As they walked slowly across the gravel, John adjusting his customary lope to match that of the shorter, limping gait of the other man, continued. “We need to change what we teach the boys to fit a changing world. At one time, parents were quite satisfied with a general classical education. Pass Matric and then on to one of the older universities to get letters after their name and then into one of the professions or take over the family estate. Of course a few went into the military but they were nearly always from military families. No one asked the boys what they wanted to do.”

Hugh was looking at the building before them as he listened. It was a rambling stone edifice built in the Gothic style with gables intersecting the roof line. Ivy grew up the walls, unkempt and emphasising the neglect which the war had brought to so many buildings. Broad, shallow steps led up to a once impressive front door, now sadly in need of a coat of paint.

“I know a lot of people are still sticking their heads in the sand and thinking everything will go back as it was before the war, it won’t. I think now that the change started when we had the last war. Men who have risked their lives for freedom are going to want it. There’ll be less of the doffing of caps to the few who just inherited their position and a good thing too!”

Hugh looked at John in surprise. These were not sentiments he expected to hear at a school like this. In fact his political beliefs had played a part in his reluctance to come.

“Oh, you won’t hear any of the fossils agreeing with me. Total heresy! It’s true none the less. Well, they’ll all be gone back into retirement after the war and I expect will be muttering to one another about all this” his voice took on a querulous tone, “newfangled modern rubbish, it’s not like it was in my young days.”

Hugh laughed, “I never expected to hear anyone here embracing change. You’re right though. A lot of the men who joined up have learned new skills and they’ll not be content to going back to menial jobs.”

They paused on the doorstep. Turning, Hugh could see more modern, single story buildings standing to one side; classrooms, he guessed. Looking back, across the wide expanse of lawn surrounded by trees, the valley stretched down to a river and beyond, climbing high above the valley were the hills.

Hugh felt the tension melt from his body and mind. While England held such peace, there was hope for a better future. Perhaps it was all worthwhile after all. His mind brought forth unbidden the words of a patriotic song, long scorned by his socialist sensibilities:

‘I will not cease from mental fight,
Nor shall my sword sleep in my hand
Till we have built Jerusalem
In England's green and pleasant land.’

For the first time he realised, if only dimly, that the future was still his to make. Perhaps he could make a small difference.

A phrase came into his mind. ‘Great oaks from small acorns grow’. That had been his mother’s favourite saying. She had been proud that he had been the first boy in the street – in the neighbourhood even - to go to university. A vision arose of the smoking ruins of the terrace of houses, under which his mother’s broken body lay.

The black cloud descended again and he limped up the steps of the house behind the tall figure of John Wheeler.

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 6:48 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 8:57 pm

Poor Hugh, still at least he can feelmore at ease with how his ideas willbe received. Thanks Pat. Laughing

#19: Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2005 9:26 pm

Wonderful beginning for part 5, thanks, Pat! Had hoped to see more of this soon!

#20: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 12:02 am

Thankyou Patmac - lovely to see Part 5. Looking forward to the next instalment.

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

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 12:41 am

Great to see this back Pat! Hope there is more soon. Poor Hugh.

#22: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 1:53 am

Thanks Pat. Poor Hugh, hope he enjoys teaching. Looking forward to seeing Reg arrive.

#23: Author: pim, Location: the Derbyshire wilderness

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 10:50 am

Hurrah, it's back! Thank you Pat Very Happy

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

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 11:28 am

Thank you Pat! Glad to see that Hugh still has some hope even if it is a little buried at present.

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

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 11:33 am

patmac wrote:

While England held such peace, there was hope for a better future. Perhaps it was all worthwhile after all. ... For the first time he realised, if only dimly, that the future was still his to make. Perhaps he could make a small difference.

So glad Hugh could find some hope. Thanks PatMac. Liz

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

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 11:45 am

Thanks Pat, I really like Hugh!

#27: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 3:28 pm

Thanks Pat. Wonderful.

#28: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 8:22 pm

The hall was large with an enormous oak dresser standing to one side covered with books and papers and a large brass hand bell standing to one end. Ahead stretched an impressive staircase and John led him to a room on the right. “My study.” He explained and Hugh saw a large room with a desk at one end overlooking a side window. Three armchairs stood in the bay at the front and bookshelves stood against every available wall. “Useful, that!” John said, pointing to the desk. “If I’m sitting there, the boys know I can see them coming and going from the classrooms. Keeps them from mischief. Come along and sit over here.” And he led the way to the chairs in the bay window.

He crossed to the fireplace and rang the bell. “Would you rather have coffee or tea? I thought we’d have a drink first and get the business side out of the way and then I’ll show you round”

A maid arrived and John asked for tea and then sat down, a buff folder in his hand. “I already know you have a degree and you did some pupil teaching when you were at school. You are qualified to teach and we need you. I know that sounds a bit blunt but I won’t disguise the fact that we’re stretched to the limit. Suppose you tell me why you want to teach?”

Hugh had rehearsed this bit over the past few days. He knew he should say that he felt he had a vocation, he wanted to pass on knowledge, trot out all the platitudes that would get him the job, but faced with this unexpected man, he just wanted to be honest.

“I don’t know that I do really. I did before the war but so much has happened and everything has changed. I wanted to go and teach in a poor area and give boys like myself a better start in life. If I thought of schools like this at all, it was as backward looking places, trying to keep the old systems going. You know, the plum jobs for the privileged few. Don’t let the workers get above themselves. Now, I don’t know. Perhaps we need to change the attitudes of the people at the top, otherwise we’ll have a revolution sooner or later.

I did think at one time that a revolution would be a good idea but now it seems a waste of lives and effort. We’ll need to pull together to get over this war. I wouldn’t want us to go the way of Russia. The original idea was good but it led to a tyranny which is worse, in some ways, than the situation before.”

“You’re sure we’ll win, then?” John asked.

“Nothings sure, but the tide has turned. I think it will take another two or three years and a lot more suffering before it’s done but, yes, we’ll win. I did think of getting involved with politics but then”, he gestured to his ruined face, “this happened. Now I really don’t know. You know I have to go back for more operations? They’ve done the basics but there’s still more they’d like to do. Especially round the eye. I wear the eye-patch because it’s not a sight anyone should see. They say they can improve that and give me a false eye but I’ve had enough at the moment.”

“Time enough for that later.” John agreed. “We’ve had a few of our old boys in the same situation. Some of them looked worse than you.”

His blunt acceptance was soothing. He didn’t ignore the problem, in fact he faced it head on, quite openly looking at the scars and assessing the extent of the damage. Hugh found it refreshing.

”I expect you’re worrying that the boys might be shocked? If you can stand it, it’ll do them good! They need to know what people have gone through in this war.” He held up a hand against Hugh’s protest. “I hear things I shouldn’t. For some reason, I get visits from old boys who confide things. I suck my pipe and listen, try not to give advice, and keep their confidence. If half what I have heard is true, Hitler is truly evil and the Nazi regime must be utterly destroyed.” His face suddenly looked old. “But the cost…..”

There was silence for a few moments, each thinking of friends who had paid the ultimate price.

John Wheeler was the first to recover himself. “Enough of that.” He said, decisively. “We can’t change the whole world! I only aspire to sow a seed in a few young minds. Most of the boys here have had a privileged upbringing and have never faced the real world. Throughout the Battle of Britain, they were betting on the numbers of German bombers shot down each day, with no thought for the lives that were lost. It’s gradually come home to them as first one and then another have lost fathers, uncles and brothers and now they are confused and can’t see beyond the war.

They need fresh views, fresh skills or they will also be victims when the war ends and they are expecting things to be the same as before. The old masters who have come out of retirement to help us out are stuck with a view that will not work. The boys call them as ‘The fossils’. We need them to see us through but they can’t take us beyond the end of the war. We need new blood. Men who see the world as it really is, face change and help our boys to take their place in a new world.

I’d like you to take a stab at that. Even if you decide later that it is not for you, I am formally offering you a post teaching English in Chaucer House.”

Hugh was dumbstruck. He had assumed his background and his degree from a redbrick university would mean he had little chance of being accepted. He had made his political views plain. This whole trip had been to keep the psychologist happy, not to actually get the post.

John Wheeler sat back and puffed his pipe, his face neutral, while Hugh digested this offer.

After a few moments of silence, Hugh pulled himself together and asked, “What age groups would you want me to teach. Would I be involved in care of the boys? Don’t forget I’ve never been to boarding school myself. All I know is what I’ve read in schoolboy tales and Boys Own comics.”

John’s expression didn’t change. “I know all that. Just as I know you are scared at making a fresh start.” Hugh reddened. “I know because I was the same after the last war. I was what they call shell shocked and with some shrapnel in my shoulder that they couldn’t remove without risking having to amputate. My predecessor persuaded me to give it a try. He had been invalided out of the Boer War with only one leg. Somehow I never left. Now I’m doing the same as he did. I only pray you won’t sit here doing the same in twenty years time. My war was ‘The War to End Wars’. No one is claiming that this time.

I’d like you to take the Second and Third Forms for English, both language and literature. If you feel up to it, once you’ve settled in, I’d also like you to have a go at History with them as well. Poor old Godwin is nearly 75 and he’s come back to help out but he’s told me he can’t go on much longer. His eyesight’s nearly gone and he’s already said this will have to be his last term. The old boy was really distressed at the idea of leaving us in the lurch and he’d be happy to show you the curriculum and go through things with you. Not that you have to follow it too closely, mind. I’m sure you’ll have your own ideas.

I don’t want to pressure you. No, that’s not true, I do! But I know it won’t work that way. I’ll show you to your room and you can unpack and then I’ll show you round. Then you can do whatever you want to till dinner, and I’ll promise not to say anything else about it till tomorrow unless you ask.”

“All right.” Hugh replied, “but I’m not promising anything.”

John smiled, “I know.”

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 6:49 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 8:49 pm

I hope all of the teachers at Polgarth are as nice as John and Hugh!

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

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 9:24 pm

Yay! more! Very Happy

*contented sigh*

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

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 10:12 pm

Really pleased for Hugh, thank you Pat.

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

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 10:33 pm

This reminds me a lot of 'To Serve Them All My Days', one of my favourite books. Look forward to seeing Reg arrive, and think Hugh is probably just the person he needs there. Razz

Good to know that his housemaster will be so lovely as well.

#33: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 10:44 pm

Carolyn P wrote:

This reminds me a lot of 'To Serve Them All My Days',

I'll admit to being influenced by that, which is one of my favourites as well. (Cue plug for all R F Delderfield's books) Hugh is actually, sort of, based on someone I once knew who was badly burned in a Spitfire crash and was one of McIndoe's Guinea Pigs. He wasn't a teacher but went on to be a successful business man. Once you got over the shock of the scars, you didn't see them because his character shone through. He did go through the adjustment that we will see Hugh go through though.

Cazx wrote:

I hope all of the teachers at Polgarth are as nice as John and Hugh!

Unlikely

It wouldn't be 'real' if they were!

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

Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 10:37 am

Thank you Pat - this is looking really interesting and look forward to seeing how Hugh adjusts and to seeing Reg settle in.

#35: Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham

Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 11:20 am

YAY its back !!! Excellent start Pat, am really involved with the new characters already. Was nice to come back to the board and have 3 shiny posts as well Wink

#36: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 11:26 am

Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful Pat. :worthy: You already know my thoughts on this, but just had to make that observation! Really looking forward to Reg getting to Polgarth now. Thanks for such a very shiny drabble - yet again.

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

Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 12:15 pm

Thanks PatMac Wonder if Hugh and Reg will form a bond as they're both "misfits" Liz

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

Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 7:25 pm

thank you Pat!!! Incredible writing!!!

#39: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 9:34 pm

After dinner, Hugh excused himself and went to his bedroom. He was tired but not sleepy and sat by the window, looking out over the countryside. The moon was full and cast a pale, ghostly light. Apart from the occasional bark of a dog in the distance, there was no sound. He sat, massaging the muscles in his leg for sometime, while he thought.

Eventually he got up and went to bed, not expecting to sleep but it had been a long day and the next thing he knew the sun was streaming in and it was morning.

Hugh went to the window and looked out. There was a mist rising from the valley and the lawn was glistening with dew. Autumn was upon them and Hugh wondered what it would be like here in the winter. Somehow in the night, his mind had made the decision and he knew he would accept the post.

As he looked down on the gravel forecourt, his eye was caught by the battered old car. He grinned to himself. “I could at least get that going properly.”

He dressed and went down to the dining room. John was there before him with no less than two eggs on his plate. He gestured to a seat. “Sit down and tuck in.” he said. “The chickens are laying well this year.”

Hugh sat down and poured a cup of tea. He looked at John and smiled. “I’ll give it a go.” He said simply and accepted a similar plate of eggs on toast from the maid with thanks.

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 6:50 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 11:20 pm

Looking forward to Hugh teaching Reg, I guess they'll have a bond as they both will feel like outsiders.

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

Posted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 11:47 pm

Lovely, thanks Pat.

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

Posted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 10:56 am

Thank you Pat. Lovely!

#43: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 1:23 pm

Glad Hugh's decided to take the job! (as if he wouldn't - there's have been no point in introducing him otherwise I guess! Note to self to make slightly less dumb comments in future! Embarassed

)Thanks Pat.

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

Posted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 1:49 pm

Also glad Hugh's taken the job. Now wondering how long until the boy's come back to school. Thanks PatMac Liz

#45: Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England

Posted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 10:46 pm

Looking forward to Reg meeting Hugh.

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

Posted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 7:17 am

Just read all this at once. Again, PatMac, WOW!!! And yes, I too read the first post as Davy arriving at Bamfylde, then as you produced more, I now see John as both Davy and Archie, with Hugh as the "new" Davy - or as Earnshaw, who appears at the very end of the book!

#47: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 3:18 pm

The next two weeks seemed to go by in a flash. Hugh travelled back down to East Grinstead and packed his meagre belongings. He saw Mr McIndoe, who suggested he should come back for a review in January, though he did not expect to start more surgery till the following summer. He also saw the psychologist who had prodded him into going for the interview and was amused to note that he was visibly restraining himself from saying “I told you so.”

On his final evening, everyone who could walk, went down to the local pub and toasted Hugh in many pints of beer finishing with the Guinea Pigs Anthem, sung by those who remained able to sing and accompanied by a cacophony from those who were now beyond speech.

We are McIndoe’s army,
We are his Guinea Pigs.
With dermatomes and pedicles,
Glass eyes, false teeth and wigs.
And when we get our discharge
We’ll shout with all our might:
“Per ardua ad astra”
We’d rather drink than fight

John Hunter runs the gas works,
Ross Tilley wields the knife.
And if they are not careful
They’ll have your flaming life.
So, Guinea Pigs, stand steady
For all your surgeon’s calls:
And if their hands aren’t steady
They’ll whip off both your ears

We’ve had some mad Australians,
Some French, some Czechs, some Poles.
We’ve even had some Yankees,
God bless their precious souls.
While as for the Canadians –
Ah! That’s a different thing.
They couldn’t stand our accent
And built a separate Wing

Of the staggering back to the hospital, those who could still stand up, supporting those who could not, Hugh remembered nothing and found himself, when dawn broke, still fully dressed, lying on top of his bed with no memory of how he got there. Of the journey to Polgarth the next day he recalled little, except the drive in the battered old Morris from the station to the school. That was guaranteed to bring anyone to their senses.

The next week was spent in familiarising himself with his new surroundings and sessions going through the term’s work with Mr Godwin, who was delighted to shed some of his load and the prospect of going back into retirement at Christmas. Hugh developed a liking for the man, though he was dismayed by the antiquated teaching methods employed. Godwin, who was nobody’s fool, advised Hugh to make changes gradually.

”I know they call us fossils behind our back.” He said, ”but I retired ten years ago and you can’t teach an old dog new tricks. I started teaching fifty years ago. You will bring in new ideas but just make sure you don’t throw out the baby with the bathwater. Some of the boys will lap it up but there’s always the rump – those boys who just coast by and need constant prodding to do any work at all.”

Talking this over with John Wheeler one evening as they walked in the grounds after dinner, he found the Headmaster inclined to agree. “Just make haste slowly”. John advised. “You need to play yourself in. Godwin will leave at Christmas, happy that you’ve listened to him. He may be a fossil, but he’s been doing his bit in the War effort by coming out of retirement. You can give him his reward by listening patiently for one term.”

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 6:52 pm; edited 1 time in total

#48: Author: Shander, Location: Canada

Posted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 3:39 pm

This is great Patmac! I've got to ask where the song came from? It was very good, and it gave me a bit of a chuckle.

#49: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 4:02 pm

Shander, here is their website.http://www.gpigs.fsnet.co.uk/

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

Posted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 5:48 pm

Thanks for the link Pat, it was very interesting to read.

#51: Guina pigs Author: Sue, Location: Tunbridge Wells

Posted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 6:02 pm

The Guinea Pig club is still there, right next to the E Grinstead hospital (my local) and they still have regular reunions and sing the song.(And there are Canadian and American Wards, aimed after the countries which sponsored them for the surgery of all burns victims. It's still an important centre of excellence for plastics and burns patients. A little off topic, but I thought some might be interested.

#52: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 6:15 pm

Thanks, PatMac. It was lovely to see the school from the teachers' side as well.

#53: Re: Guina pigs Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 6:45 pm

Sue wrote:

I might have known we'd have someone in E Grinstead. Razz

I knew they still met but didn't know the club was still there.

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

Posted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 7:53 pm

Excellent, thanks Pat!

#55: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 12:58 am

Thanks Pat. Lovely interchange between the staff. Hope Hugh is very happy there.

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

Posted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 2:49 am

Excellent post Pat & thanks for the info on The Guinea Pig Club

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

Posted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 10:59 am

Thanks PatMac. Hope Hugh is soon settled in. Liz

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

Posted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 11:06 am

Thanks Pat, loved the info on the Guinea pig club!

#59: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 12:17 pm

Thanks Pat, wonderful. I'd heard of the Guinea Pig Club, but never really knew anything about them so thanks for the link. It's fascinating stuff.

#60: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 4:05 pm

I knew a bit about the The Guinea Pig Club through someone I once knew, now sadly, dead. through him I met some other members and they were all so matter of fact and cheerful about everything that I always admired them. He sang the song at a drunken evening once and I remembered bits of it.

Leeds Station was very crowded on this September afternoon. Once again, troops were on the move and trains delayed. Hugh stood on the platform with a list of boys who were to join the train here and gradually ticked them off on the list. Some curious glances came his way but most boys were now aware of the price paid by Spitfire pilots in the Battle of Britain and some of the looks were more in awe than curiosity. Finally he only had one boy missing, Entwhistle. A new boy John had mentioned to him as a potential candidate for his new approach to English and History together with a probable need for pastoral care.

“He’s lived all his life in a small village up on the moors. For some reason, he came to the attention of a Dr Maynard who has a holiday home there. He was impressed enough to offer to pay for the boy’s education. He’s going to need a lot of coaching, but I’ve spoken to his old Headmaster who was most enthusiastic about his potential. His parents are both dead and he lives with an elderly aunt who has some reservations about his change in fortune. You might watch out for him? He’s nearly thirteen and may need some encouragement. From what Dr Maynard and his Headmaster have said, he’ll find the first term or two a bit difficult. He’s been a loner and used to being with adults so boarding school is going to come as a shock. I’m told he’s always got his nose in a book, though what type of book, I don’t know!”

The train was coming round the bend to the south of the station when he saw what could only be his missing pupil coming up the platform. He was tall for his age and with the awkwardness of adolescence which gives the impression of extra joints in the arms and legs. His brand new uniform, a little on the large size for his bony frame, and a tense expression on his face confirmed the identification.

With him was a wiry woman in her fifties. With a jolt of recognition, Hugh recognised the expression on her face as identical to that on his mother’s when she first saw him off to university. Pride, mingled with anxiety and a fear of making a fool of herself showed clearly to Hugh and he found himself anxious to put her at ease. Checking her name on the list, he greeted her.

“Mrs Thirtle? It’s a bit chaotic here today. The train is just coming so, if you’d like to say goodbye to your nephew now, we’ll get him on board as soon as it arrives. Don’t worry. He’ll be fine.”

He turned to admonish two boys who were chasing around a lamppost. “Hey, you two! The train is coming. Pick up your cases.”

The train pulled in and screeched to a halt. Boys appeared at the windows of the end coach, shouting and waving and a tall man with red hair leapt off. He shook hands with Hugh and quickly waved the waiting boys into the carriage. I’m Charles Evans. Pleased to meet you. Let’s get this horrible horde aboard.”

Hugh turned to see that the new boy had joined the line waiting to board the train and he went across to Auntie. “Don’t worry, he’ll be fine. You’ll get a letter in a couple of days. The boys all write home to say they have arrived safely.”

Auntie was left standing on the platform as the train pulled out. Lots of boys were waving but she couldn’t distinguish Reg as her eyes were unaccountably blurred.

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 6:53 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 5:24 pm

Poor Auntie! I hope she finds something to take her mind off everything.Thanks Pat.

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

Posted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 5:46 pm

*sends hugs to Auntie*Thanks Pat - nice to see the boys were looking in awe and recognition of why Hugh had the injury. Hope that will help him in coming to terms with it.Liz

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

Posted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 7:08 pm

(((((Auntie))))) Good start for Hugh - glad Reg has him there.

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

Posted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 9:16 pm

Thank you Pat!!!Wonderful and moving posts!

#65: Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England

Posted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 10:35 pm

Poor Auntie, let's hope the rest of the CS clan look after her so that she isn't lonely!

#66: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Mon Feb 14, 2005 1:04 am

Oh, I want to give Auntie a big old hug, poor love. Sad

Nice to see the boy's reactions to Hugh, too, though somehow think there'll be one or two who are not quite so magnanimous! Confused

Thanks Pat. Looking forward to Reg's first impressions of Polgarth...

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

Posted: Mon Feb 14, 2005 12:35 pm

Thank you Pat.

#68: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Mon Feb 14, 2005 5:23 pm

Thanks Pat lovely update. Poor Auntie hope she feels better soon.

#69: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Tue Feb 15, 2005 4:59 am

Thanks, Pat! *impressed by the Guinea Pigs, and a bit teary at Auntie's farewell*

#70: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Feb 15, 2005 9:10 pm

As the train pulled out of the station, Reg found himself shepherded into a carriage by a tall young man with a badge on his tie, which he recognised from Archie’s description as that of a prefect. “In here! This lot are all in Chaucer House.” he said. “Shove up, you lot. Move those books off the seat, Alcock. We’ve got to fit everyone in.” He turned to Reg. “What’s your name?”

“Reg Entwhistle.” Said Reg.

“Right. Dixon, keep an eye on Entwhistle here and make sure he’s ready to get off at our station. Remember, the train can’t stop for long there. Don’t forget to get your things together in plenty of time.” And he disappeared, looking slightly harassed leaving Reg alone to face the curious eyes of eight other boys, some of whom were quite a bit younger.

Dixon, who seemed to be about Reg’s age, shoved his neighbours along and patted the seat beside him. “Come and sit here. It’s always a scrum by the time we get to Leeds, but it’s not far now. Do you know what form you’re in?”

“Not yet,” said Reg, as he sat down. “I’ve got to do tests when I get to school.”

A fat boy sitting opposite rolled his eyes. “Sooner you than me!” There was general laughter.

“Poor old Kelsey. He’s never passed a test in his life.” Kelsey did not look in the least put out by this comment and grinned.

“If you pass tests, you have to do harder work. I’d rather not, thank you.” And he sat back, his cheek distended by a boiled sweet.

“Do you know who the new Master is?” Dixon asked.

Reg looked puzzled. “You know the one with the eyepatch and the scarred face. He got on with you at Leeds.”

Reg’s face cleared. “His name is Mr Douglas. I didn’t even know he was new.”

“I bet he was a spitfire pilot” guessed another boy. “My father says a lot of them get burnt if the fuel tanks are hit. The burning fuel just goes straight back into the cockpit. Poor chap.”

The conversation passed on to the summer holidays and Reg sat quietly and listened, taking it all in.

He was remembering his last chat with Dr Maynard.

“Stand back at first and listen and watch.” He had said. “If you seem quiet, you’ll be accepted more quickly. Listen to the boys you meet and work out which ones are likely to make good friends. It’s not necessarily the ones who seem to be leaders who make the best friends. Some of them just want followers. Ask questions if you don’t know how to do something. Everyone has to adjust at first. Schools make rules about doing things in certain ways so the whole set up runs smoothly. If the rules seem silly to you, there’s probably a good reason for them. Make sure you stand up for yourself if you need to, but always count to ten first.”

Reg shrewdly noticed what slang was being used and that the accents seemed varied. He had been rather afraid that his Yorkshire accent would be laughed at but, hearing Dixon’s Devon burr, and another boy whose nickname was Scotty, speaking with what he guessed was a Scottish accent, he felt quite relieved.

In fact there was only one boy who seemed in the least bit stuck up and the others ribbed him mercilessly about boasting about his father’s importance.

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 6:54 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Tue Feb 15, 2005 9:37 pm

I'm glad the boys seem to be nice, only hope that they stay nice!

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

Posted: Tue Feb 15, 2005 10:34 pm

Glad Reg is off to a good start. Thanks Pat.

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

Posted: Tue Feb 15, 2005 11:08 pm

Ooh! Ooh! Is the stuck-up one the one who was told to move the books? Alcock? (still dragging Delderfield into this) This story is so very good

#74: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Wed Feb 16, 2005 1:01 am

Glad Reg managed to remember Jack's advice. He seems to be in with a nice crowd, though I suppose they won't all stay like that.

#75: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Wed Feb 16, 2005 2:55 am

So far, so good! Reg seems to be fitting in nicely. Thank you, Pat.

#76: Author: pim, Location: the Derbyshire wilderness

Posted: Wed Feb 16, 2005 11:12 am

Glad Reg seems to be settling in so far. Thanks Pat Smile

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

Posted: Wed Feb 16, 2005 11:37 am

Glad Reg is settling in ok so far. Thank you Pat.

#78: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Feb 16, 2005 5:36 pm

Lovely Pat, thanks. Nice to get the first glimpse of Reg's schoolmates. Love Jack's advice too. Very shrewd.

#79: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Feb 16, 2005 9:46 pm

As they passed over the Ribblehead Viaduct, they started to pack away books and magazines and put on their jackets, and by the time the Prefect came back to check, they were all ready. He glanced round the carriage and was evidently satisfied with the result.

“Wait here, till you’re called.” He said “And no shouting or larking about when we get off. Remember, we don’t want to upset the locals.” And he was gone about his duties. Soon the train was slowing and all the boys stood up ready to join the line of boys making their way along the corridor. Dixon pulled Reg into the line ahead of him.

“We get off and go straight out to the coaches.” He explained. “A lot of people used to come by car but with petrol rationing, most use the train now, so it’s a bit of a scrum as so many of us arrive at once.”

The train stopped and the boys started to leave the train, each carrying a small case. Shepherded by Prefects, they marched out of the station in orderly lines. When Reg and his companions emerged into the square, a line of coaches was waiting. The front one pulling away as soon as it was full. Reg noticed that the bigger boys were being directed to certain coaches and all the boys his age or younger were being loaded into just two.

“Why do they split us up?” He asked Dixon.

The older boys live up at Polgarth itself.” He explained. “We’re on the other side of the playing fields and we go a different way.”

There was no delay and Reg found himself being hustled on to a coach, swinging his case onto the overhead rack and pulled down into a seat by Dixon, who seemed to take his duties seriously.

The Master who had greeted Reg and his Auntie at Leeds boarded last and, did a quick headcount and report on numbers to another master Dixon identified as “Mr Evans, my Form Master and a ‘good sort’, provided you try.”

The coach pulled away and Dixon sighed. “I’ve travelled all the way from Plymouth today.” He said. “We left at six this morning and I can’t wait to have supper and get off to bed.” The coach rumbled across the setts and through the narrow streets to the edge of town and along the road down the valley. Soon the coach turned into a narrow lane and crawled along, taking up the whole width. Then into the gates of the school and the boys were soon piling out of the coach in front of a large house. Another coach pulled up behind and soon the gravel area in front of the house was filled with boys all laughing and greeting friends.

Standing on the steps was a group of boys who had arrived earlier and a tall dark haired man, talking to an elderly man who was nearly bald and wearing very think glasses. They were joined by the two escort masters. “The tall one’s Mr Wheeler.” Said Dixon. “He’s the Headmaster. The old one with him is Mr Godwin. He teaches history and English.”

Once the empty coaches had driven off, Mr Wheeler came to the front of the steps and called for silence.

“Welcome back, everyone. I hope you all had good holidays and have come back ready to work hard?” There was a chorus of replies and a few groans at the reminder that holidays were over.

“Take your cases to your dormitories and then go straight to the refectory. After supper, we meet in the main hall for the usual beginning of term announcements and it’s early bed for everyone tonight. New boys wait here and we’ll soon tell you where to go.”

“I’ll see you at supper. Look out for me and I’ll save you a seat on my table.” Said Dixon hurriedly and was gone in the surge into the house.

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 6:58 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Wed Feb 16, 2005 9:56 pm

Thanks Pat! I'm really enjoying learning about Reg's schooldays!

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

Posted: Wed Feb 16, 2005 10:38 pm

Dixon sounds a good sort - thanks Pat.

#82: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Wed Feb 16, 2005 10:40 pm

Thanks, Pat, this is superb.

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

Posted: Wed Feb 16, 2005 10:41 pm

This is great Pat, looking forwrd to seeing how Reg gets on.

#84: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Feb 16, 2005 11:38 pm

Have you set Polgarth near Giggleswick School Pat?

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

Posted: Thu Feb 17, 2005 12:35 am

Thanks Patmac. That was good advice from Jack and I'm glad Dixon is being friendly to Reg. Liz

#86: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Thu Feb 17, 2005 12:36 am

Thanks Pat. Looking forward to hearing more about Reg at school.

#87: Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham

Posted: Thu Feb 17, 2005 11:43 am

Am really enjoying it all Thanks Pat Kiss

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

Posted: Thu Feb 17, 2005 12:18 pm

Pat you are a legend Smile

#89: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu Feb 17, 2005 3:00 pm

Wonderful. Am liking Dixon. thanks Pat. This is so well written I can picture every scene.

#90: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Feb 17, 2005 8:34 pm

RL is doing nasty things to me at the moment and I'm barely keeping ahead. It does mean the next few posts may be a little short but I'm hoping Saturday will be kinder.

Reg was left with a small group with ten other new boys who had also travelled by train. He was easily the tallest though he thought a couple of them were around his own age. Most of them looked as scared as he felt.

Mr Wheeler looked round the small group and smiled. “Welcome to Polgarth.” He said. “This is, as you will have gathered, Chaucer House. I’m Mr Wheeler, the Headmaster and these are Mr Godwin, Mr Evans and Mr Douglas, some of the masters who will be teaching you. They’ll take you to your dormitories now and hand you over to your Dormitory Prefects who will show you what to do. We try to keep everything as simple as possible on the first night. As I read out your names, come forward and we’ll be able to see who is who.”

He read out three names and the boys went forward and were taken into the house by Mr Godwin. Another four went with Mr Evans and last of all he read the names of those who were to be taken in by Mr Douglas. Reg began to wonder if his name was on the list as he was the last to be called and heaved a sigh of relief as he heard his name.

The last four boys followed Mr Douglas into the house and, although it was the biggest house Reg had ever been in, he could not see how all the boys fitted in. As they passed through a passage to the rear of the house, it became clear that the original house had been extended by a long wing at the back. Double doors stood open revealing a large room with long tables and benches extending in two rows down the length. Gingham cloths covered the tables and three maids were bustling round putting jugs of lemonade and milk on the tables ready for the boys.

“The refectory.” Confirmed Mr Douglas. They ascended a staircase to the upper floor and passed several doors which stood open and revealed boys milling about as they greeted friends and exchanged news. The noise was deafening and Reg wondered if it would always be like this. He was reassured by a comment from a passing Master to Mr Douglas. “Thank goodness there’ll be none of this tomorrow. We always let them get it out of their system the first night!”

“Armstrong and Collins you are in here.” Said Mr Douglas. “Just wait here, you two.” And he entered one of the dormitories to hand the two new boys over to the prefect.

At the next door he took the other boy in and then came out to Reg. “You are in the one right at the end.” He explained. “Sorry you seem to be last each time!” and he smiled reassuringly at Reg. “The dormitories are all named for famous poets," he explained as they walked along. “You’re in Tennyson.”

As they entered the room a pillow hit Reg full in the face and, not expecting it, he staggered. As the boys saw the Master standing in the doorway, a deathly silence fell.

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 7:58 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Thu Feb 17, 2005 8:40 pm

Oooh dear. Thanks though, Patmac - looking forward to seeing how he reacts!

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

Posted: Thu Feb 17, 2005 9:11 pm

Oooops! Poor Reg =- hope he's OK! Thanks Pat. poke

#93: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 1:10 am

Thanks, Pat! I hope RL improves shortly. Surely no one would blame Reg for getting the dorm caught at pillow-fighting.... Confused

#94: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 1:26 am

Oops! How will they both handle this one? Worried we're about to see the return of sulky Reg - he had problems taking a joke sometimes, didn't he? Hope I'm wrong anyway. Thanks Pat.

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

Posted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 5:33 am

Do they believe in corporal punishment at Polgarth PatMac? Hope the lads get off lately as it is first night!

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

Posted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 10:58 am

Thanks Pat, hope RL becomes nicer soon!

#97: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 11:05 am

I hope Reg manages to join in the schoolboy fun. poke

RL for PatMac with new, specially sharpened poking stick.

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

Posted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 11:46 am

Poor Reg - what a way to be greeted to his dormitory. I hope the pillow fight is taken as first-night fun and he soon settles in.Hope RL improves for you soon PatLiz

#99: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 2:56 pm

Hope RL is better soon Pat. Poor Reg what a welcome to the dorm Hope Mr Douglas put it down to first night exuberance as they seem to do with the noise.

#100: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 7:45 pm

Hooray! It's Friday. Anyone would think I didn't enjoy work. I do really, even though I moan Wink

Hugh realised in an instant that Reg, already keyed up, was about to throw the pillow back without thinking. He grabbed the boy’s arm in a pretence at steadying him after his stagger and Reg came to his senses and let the pillow fall to the floor.

One of the smaller boys came forward, very red faced. “Um, I’m awfully sorry, Sir. I didn’t see you come in.”

“That’s fairly obvious.” Said Hugh, dryly. “Which of you is Prefect here?”

A startled gasp from the doorway gave him the clue he needed and he ignored the presence behind him. “I would have thought you should be old enough to be trusted for a few minutes while your Prefect is out of the room. It seems I was mistaken.”

His tone gave no hint of the laughter which was bubbling up inside. Their faces were so stricken, he could hardly keep a straight face. “Right, Entwhistle, give this boy his pillow back so he can get his bed tidy before Matron sees the state of it. Oh, and what is your name, young pillow thrower?”

“Hanson, Sir.”

”Thank you. That’s a name I shall remember.” Hanson turned even redder and squirmed.

Hugh turned to the prefect, standing behind him and looked at him enquiringly.

“I’m Daley, Sir. I just ran over to Matron with the Health Forms. She likes to get them all in on the first night.”

“That’s all right, Daley. You weren’t to know these little boys would start a pillow fight the minute your back was turned. I’ve just brought a new boy to join your Dormitory.” He gestured to Reg. “His name is Entwhistle and he is probably wondering what he has landed in. If you could bring this lot back to order and get them all down to the Refectory in about ten minutes?”

He nodded to the Prefect, who stood aside to let him leave the room and limped down the corridor, wondering if he had handled the matter adequately.

As soon as he had gone, Hanson came over to Reg. “I’m frightfully sorry. It wasn’t aimed at you.”

Reg grinned. “I’m glad to hear that. It was a bit of a shock and I very nearly threw it back!”

There was a general laugh and the atmosphere lightened. Daley showed Reg his cubicle and instructed him to unpack his case quickly, calling Hanson over to show him where to put his belongings in the chest of drawers and cupboard. Hanson, helped him and rattled off so much information that Reg only took in part of it.

“You can have two photos on the chest of drawers and any books you’ve brought have to be shown to your form master. That’s been the rule since one boy brought a copy of Lady Chatterley’s Lover to school and there was a frightful stink, though I can’t see why. It’s boring. You put your washing things in here and hang you jacket up on this peg. Hang your shirts here when we unpack trunks which will be tomorrow morning and put your pullovers in here. Sports things go in this drawer. Underclothes in this one. You’ll hang your trousers next to your shirts and ties in this drawer. Change into your house shoes and put your outdoor shoes in here for now. We keep them in the cloakroom normally with outdoor coats but tonight we just put them away here. Pyjamas, under your pillow, dressing gown on this peg. Towels on this rail so they dry. We have a list for bathers in the morning and we have to be pretty quick to get everyone through.”

He ran a practiced eye round the cubicle and declared it would meet Matron’s inspection. As he had reeled all this information off in, apparently, one breath, he took a deep breath as he finished and Reg, who had been lost half way through, took one too and wondered how he would remember what went where.

Daley came over to check all was well. “Since you’ve given Entwhistle here such a warm welcome, you can help him out in the Dorm till he gets the hang of things, Bubbles.”

He turned from Hanson to Reg [/I]”Do you know the name of that new Master?”[/I] He asked “He seemed very much on the spot, though I got a shock when he turned round. I presume he’s just out of the forces.”

“All I know is that he’s called Mr Douglas. He met us on Leeds Station and I didn’t even know he was new till a boy called Dixon told me on the train.”

Daley grimaced. “Poor bloke. I wonder what he’ll teach. Do you know what form you’re in?”

Once again Reg explained his background. “I’m twelve, nearly thirteen. I’ve no idea where that would put me normally.”

“Probably in Lower IV, then. There’s two divisions A and B and we’re generally in the last year in Chaucer. They like to keep us with boys our own age where they can and coach us up where we have problems. There’s always the odd prodigy like young Hanson here. He’s only ten but they had to put him in Lower IVA. You might not think it but he’s a whiz at maths and not bad at most other things. As you’ve already gathered, he’s no angel, despite his looks!”

Reg looked at the younger boy in some surprise. He was small for his age and with big blue eyes and, indeed looked almost pretty, with long eyelashes and curly fair hair which stood out from his head like a halo. On the strength of Hanson’s non-stop chatter and the thrown pillow, he had not expected to hear he was clever.

Hanson shrugged. “I can’t help it. I look like my Ma and get the maths bit from my Pa.” He grinned engagingly and Reg found himself smiling back.

At this moment, footsteps were heard in the corridor and Dixon appeared. “Come on you lot, we’re all going down now.”

There was a general rush to the door as everyone remembered how hungry they were. Reg let the mob go past and joined Dixon who had waited for him.

“I’ve just had a shock.” Said Dixon. “I’m Dormitory Prefect of Milton this year. Molyneux thought he would get it and he’s pretty sore that he didn’t. I could really do without the responsibility.” He sighed in an elderly way. “Molyneux’s a real ass. Just because his Dad is rich, he thinks he’s really someone! Come on, let’s catch up with the others. I’m starving.”

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 7:59 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 9:07 pm

Looks like Reg should be ok with Hanson and Daley, although it sounds like Dixon might be in for a rough ride and I presume Reg will get caught up in that. Love the way they have to be as neat and tidy as a CS girl. Laughing

Do they have to hump matresses as well?

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

Posted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 9:22 pm

Excellent Pat - love all the detail for clothes etc.

#103: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 11:51 pm

Thanks Pat. A lovely post setting out the detail of dorm life. Reg seems to be with a nice set of lads.

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

Posted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 12:17 am

Thanks Pat - although I'm beginning to think that your Reg deserved better than Len, rather than the other way round! Shocked

#105: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 6:54 am

Well handled Hugh! That should earn him some respect...though can see both he and Reg may be in for a rough ride with Molyneux. Thanks Pat. I love the details you put in that paint the picture. Am sure I've said it before, but I find myself really picturing every single scene - Polgarth has come alive for me already Very Happy

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

Posted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 11:05 am

Thanks Pat! This is really good! Very Happy

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

Posted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 11:47 am

Thanks Pat - lovely to see Reg making some more friends - although I've a feeling Molyneux might need a close watch! Hope you enjoy the weekend Liz

#108: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 9:03 pm

Auntie had made the journey back to Garnham with a hollow feeling, mingled with pride. It was all very well saying she would get a letter, but that wasn’t the same as having Reg at home.

She wondered about the poor young man who had tried to reassure her. She supposed he had been a pilot. She was suddenly glad that Reg was only twelve. At least this war should be over before he was old enough to go and fight.

She changed, thankfully, into comfortable clothes and shoes and made her way down the garden to see to the animals. The three cows were waiting by the field gate and she opened it to let them into the barn for milking. Then there were the chickens and pigs to be fed. The piglets had grown and were nearly big enough to go to the butchers.

Standing by the stye and scratching the sow after the familiar chores were finished, she gave herself up to a few minutes sadness for the inevitability of change. It was bound to come, sooner or later, but it always seemed too soon. She knew that things would never be the same as before. The Reg who came home at half term would not be her boy, but a new Reg, however subtle the changes.

”Only six weeks to half term.” she thought. “”Forty two days.”

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 8:00 pm; edited 1 time in total

#109: Author: Caroline OSullivan, Location: Reading, Berkshire, UK

Posted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 9:10 pm

Thank you Pat. Really appreciate that you've added to this having seen from COT what RL is like at the moment.

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

Posted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 9:55 pm

Poor Auntie, she must be so lonely - hope Simone and Phoebe and the others keep in contact. Thanks Pat.

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

Posted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 10:06 pm

Awww poor Auntie! I hope the other villagers are nice to her and make sure she doesn't get too lonely.

#112: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 1:45 am

Thanks Pat. Aren't Madge and Jen supposed to be going to the cottage when Madge recovers from Ailie's birth? Hope she goes to visit and that Aunty gets lots of nice chatty letters from the quartette and Phoebe.

#113: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 11:36 am

Quote:

she gave herself up to a few minutes sadness for the inevitability of change. It was bound to come, sooner or later, but it always seemed too soon.

So true.

Would be lovely to see the others visit her while Reg is at school. Thanks Pat.

#114: Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham

Posted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 1:07 pm

Wonderful posts Mummy Pat,sorry RL is being such a pain, Megan sends hugs and kisses for her granny *g*

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

Posted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 2:49 pm

Thanks Pat Hope Reg will always be Auntie's boy, no matter what changes happen in his life. Liz

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

Posted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 9:35 pm

Thank you Pat!!! Hope Reg will write to Auntie lots!!!

#117: Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England

Posted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 10:02 pm

Poor Auntie! At least Reg seems to be getting on aat school all right so far. I love all the deatails, thanks Pat!

#118: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 10:25 pm

LizB wrote:

Hope Reg will always be Auntie's boy, no matter what changes happen in his life. Liz

That's the only thing the bunnies seem to agree on. Confused

Apart from that, it's "nature red in tooth and claw" way.”[/i]

Dixon and Reg followed the others down the corridor. “Gibson is saving seats for us. He got here earlier with the other people from the North so he was already unpacked. Just for tonight, we sit where we like. We always have a light supper the first night because sometimes trains are late. I remember one year some people didn’t get in till the next morning because the train had to keep stopping because of bombing.

Mrs Butler, she’s the cook, always makes cakes for first night. We don’t have them except at weekends normally because the sugar ration won’t run to it.”

By now they were entering the Refectory and Dixon led Reg down the room to where Gibson was saving their places by the simple expediency of laying along the bench. He sat up when he saw them and Reg and Dixon slid into their places beside him. The tables each seated eight boys, four at each side and were set in two rows down the room.

At the far end was a long table on a slightly raised platform where the staff were chatting as they waited for all the boys to come in. Reg recognised Mr Douglas, Mr Evans and Mr Godwin and guessed that the small grey haired woman in the crisp nurses uniform must be the matron. Dixon was just beginning to name the others when Mr Wheeler, who sat at the centre of the staff table, stood up as the last boy slid into his place and he stopped abruptly.

Everyone stood and there was a moments silence before Reg was startled to hear the Latin grace he had learnt from the Maynards and their friends. Once everyone was sitting again, the maids entered with trolleys laden with plates heaped with scrambled eggs and toast. Large plates with extra toast were placed on the tables and the boys were soon all busy eating.

“Thank goodness we’ve got our own farm.” Said one boy, sighing with pleasure at his heaped plate. “We only get one egg a week on the rations at home.”

Once they had taken the edge off their hunger the boys all started talking again. Dixon introduced the other six boys who all seemed of a similar age by pointing at each one and rattling off his name.

Pete Gibson, who had saved them seats was sitting at Reg’s other side and beyond him was the boy with the Scottish accent who was referred to as ‘Scotty’ though his real name was Malcolm MacDonald. A dark skinned boy who Dixon named as ‘Greek’ and whose real name, Reg discovered later to be Heraklis Fourakis was sitting opposite Reg and beside him were Chris Hopkins, Julian Alcock and Ernest Copley.

“And this is Reg Entwhistle.” He finished, taking another slice of toast and reaching for the milk to refill his glass.

Reg wondered if he would ever get the names fixed in his head. The boys seemed friendly enough, though they had obviously known one another a long while. He quietly ate and listened to the chatter,

The plates were soon emptied and Reg followed the example of his neighbours in passing them along to the top of the table where they were neatly piled ready for the maids to remove.

Soon the maids appeared again with trolleys laden with plates containing slabs of cakes to muted cheers from the boys. The cakes were placed, two plates on each table and the dirty plates and cutlery were removed.

“Coo! Chocolate cake. Cook has done us proud.” Exclaimed Gibson, reaching for a slice. “We each get two pieces, tuck in.” He explained to Reg.

As soon as the boys were finished, Mr Wheeler stood up and the chatter died away.

“Clear the tables quickly and then go straight into Hall. Any boys who do not know your forms, just go with someone you know for tonight.” He sat down again and there was a general clatter as the boys rose to clear.

The boys quickly passed their plates along and Reg saw that the two boys at the top of the table had folded the cloth back at their end and were piling the plates and dirty glasses on the bare table. Other boys were removing the cruets and he noticed that each table had a small dresser standing against the wall behind it and the cruets were being placed on this. The tablecloth was quickly folded and placed in the cupboard.

“We keep the same tablecloth so if we’re messy we have to live with out own mess.” Said Dixon. “The tablecloths are supposed to last the week, though if we have a really bad accident, they change them sooner. But we hear about it from Matron if we’re careless so we’d rather not! Come on. Sit with us in hall, you’re probably in our form anyway.”

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 8:02 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 11:45 pm

Thanks for a lovely long post Pat! Very Happy

#120: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 2:10 am

Thank you Pat it is so nice to hear about Reg's early days at the school. It must have been a really big change for him and probably an effort to go into the refectory with the others.

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

Posted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 4:41 am

Thank you Pat that was very shiny of you after your week - then again possibly such a lovely domesticated post is a relief for you? :ahhh: patmac

#122: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 5:18 am

Thanks Pat! Glad to see Reg's first day hasn't been terribly traumatic. Feeling much more sorry for Auntie.

Quote:

"nature red in tooth and claw"

*wibbles*

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

Posted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 10:10 am

Thanks PatMac - it was so comforting to see Reg have something he knew - the Latin grace - and to see some similarities between Polgarth and CS.Also liked the lying along the bench to save seats!Liz

#124: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 2:04 pm

Thank you, it's so reassuring to see that most of the others are just ordinary small boys.

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

Posted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 7:23 pm

Thank you Pat - lovely.

#126: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 11:27 pm

Quote:

"nature red in tooth and claw"

is actually 3 bunnies fighting out the details, rather than a picture of Polgarth. It's quite a battle!

The boys trooped down the corridor towards the front of the house and entered a very large room which was obviously part of the original mansion. On one side, windows reached the height of the walls and the ceiling was ornately plastered. The floor was parquet and rows of chairs stood facing a dais with a lectern in the centre and rows of chairs for the staff. At one side stood a piano.

There was a low hum of chatter as the boys took their seats, youngest at the front the front and oldest at the back. which ceased as the staff filed in.

Mr Wheeler stood up to the lectern and looked round the room. “Welcome back to a new term and a new School Year.” He began. “Those of you who were here last year, already know which forms you are in. The new members of the first form” He smiled at the eight year olds sitting at the front, “already know their form. All other new boys I will see tomorrow morning. For tonight stay with the boys you already know.

We have one new member of staff this term. Mr Douglas, who will be teaching English for the second and third forms and also taking them for History to relieve Mr Godwin. He will also take teach current affairs for the Lower Fourth forms.

Remember that you must still carry your gas masks with you at all times. Although we have never had any bombing near here, we must be prepared. Make absolutely sure that the blackout is maintained. We will have an air raid drill tomorrow to be sure everyone remembers what to do.

Matron will be calling you out of class in groups for unpacking trunks. Please be sure you have the keys to your trunks in your pockets tomorrow so we can get it done smoothly. Now, the news you’ve all been waiting for. The Head Boy of Chaucer House this year will be Simon Herrick.”

Simon, who was sitting at the end of the back row, rose to clapping from the boys and went forward to receive his badge and returned to his seat, very red in the face.

Mr Wheeler went on to name the other Prefects.

“Second Prefect, Edward White. Games Prefect, Peter Gibson. Music Prefect, Charles Hobbs.”

He paused between each name and the boy named went to the front to collect his badge.

“The other Prefects are : Joseph Marlow, Kevin Kelsey and Malcolm MacDonald.”

When the last boy had returned to his seat, the Head held up his hand for silence.

“Now we come to Form Prefects. For the First Form, we usually wait a few days till be get to know you, so you will now go with Miss Hulton, who will be your Form Mistress. Miss Hulton, who was a pleasant woman in her thirties, rose and collected the seventeen smallest boys for a game in the garden before bed.

After they had left, Mr Wheeler read out the names of the Form Prefects, starting with Form II, and, as each collected his badge, he added the name of each member and the form left with their Form Master. Finally, sixteen boys were left, including Reg, who had remained with his new friends.

Mr Wheeler smiled at the group. “Last but not least! Form Prefect for Lower Four A is Christopher Hopkins.” From the applause, Reg gathered this was a popular choice.

“Your Form Master is Mr Evans.” Mr Evans rose and led his form out of the room.

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 8:07 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Tue Feb 22, 2005 12:13 am

Thanks Pat *hopes the fight isn't too gory - we want all your bunnies to survive* Liz

#128: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Tue Feb 22, 2005 1:17 am

Thanks Pat. Lovely detail - hope the bunnies survive.

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

Posted: Tue Feb 22, 2005 5:52 am

Thanks Pat.

#130: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Feb 22, 2005 11:21 am

Lovely Pat, thanks. *sends first aid kit and restraining leads for bunnies - though not too restraining of course Wink

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

Posted: Tue Feb 22, 2005 2:11 pm

Lots of lovely posts! Thank you Pat especially considering Rl and whta its been throwing at you.

#132: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Feb 23, 2005 7:36 pm

Finally, lying in bed with the unaccustomed sounds of other boys around him, Reg took stock of the day. He was tired and the highlights whirled confusingly in his head.

He saw his last view of Garnham for six long weeks as the bus turned the corner at the end of the street.

He remembered the shock of seeing the ruined face of Mr Douglas, tempered with the kindness he had shown in going across to speak to Auntie.

Auntie, looking lost and bewildered as she peered after the train.

His first view of Chaucer House and then the sinking feeling of being the last called to enter the House,

The shock of the pillow hitting his face and his instinctive reaction which could have been disastrous if it hadn’t been for Mr Douglas’s quick intervention.

Hanson’s face as he realised what he had done. What did they call him? Bubbles? A vague memory of a picture of a boy who looked like Hanson but in a velvet suit came to mind. Where had he seen that? On a chocolate box? Yes, the one Auntie kept in the dresser with her writing paper in.

His mind spun and as he dropped off to sleep, a small girl's voice said clearly, “And God bless my Weg.”

"Tessa", Reg murmured.

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 8:08 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Wed Feb 23, 2005 8:26 pm

Pat, this is just so wonderful - love the whirling thoughts he's having - so true to life. And

Quote:

His mind spun and as he dropped off to sleep, a small girl's voice said clearly, “And God bless my Weg.” "Tessa", Reg murmured.

just bought a lump to my throat

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

Posted: Wed Feb 23, 2005 8:28 pm

Thanks Pat! Very Happy

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

Posted: Wed Feb 23, 2005 9:13 pm

Ahhh, lovely!

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

Posted: Wed Feb 23, 2005 11:32 pm

That was two lovely posts Pat. Thank you, you are capturing this beautifully.

#137: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Thu Feb 24, 2005 12:15 am

Thanks, Pat! It's been quite a day for Reg. *hopes the bunnies continue to shred each other rather than poor Reg & Auntie* Smile

#138: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu Feb 24, 2005 2:15 pm

Superb Pat, thanks. Can just imagine Reg's head spinning like that after the day he's had. Interesting how his main connection at this point seems to be to Tessa as opposed to Len.

#139: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Thu Feb 24, 2005 4:52 pm

Thanks Pat this is just so lovely. Reg is so realistic.

#140: Author: keren, Location: Israel

Posted: Thu Feb 24, 2005 4:58 pm

Josie wrote:

Superb Pat, thanks. Can just imagine Reg's head spinning like that after the day he's had. Interesting how his main connection at this point seems to be to Tessa as opposed to Len.

Tessa, Sybil, or anyone but Len, As far as we know, she suddenly happens in the later books. Maybe if Sybil had not gone to Australia, then he would have got to know her instead. Maybe we will hear something from someone of a story line like this. In one of the previous episodes of this drabble, we see that after the very traumatic events Sybil experienced, Reg was someone who was nice to her.

#141: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Feb 24, 2005 9:39 pm

It's the chief bunny who is insisting on Tessa at this point! I am inclined to think that, if he had a close relationship with Len when she was small, he would probably have had some difficulty in seeing her in a romantic light. Although the bunnies are fighting over some of the details, I think we will see more of Sybil later.

Hugh limped into the staff room a little diffidently.

It had been a busy day and he was tired. In spite of the lack of comments on his scarring, he had been uncomfortably aware of shocked and curious glances throughout the day and he would have preferred to go to his room rather than face the rest of the staff en masse. He was very aware, however, that he was embarking on a close relationship with these strangers and he certainly didn’t want to be thought of as stand-offish.

Charles Evans looked round from the table where he was pouring a large pot of tea and smiled a welcome. “How do you take it?” he asked, adding a cup to the row lined up.

“Just milk, please.” Hugh replied, coming across to take the cup as Charles poured. He took the cup and drank thankfully. Several other men were sitting in the battered easy chairs and one beckoned to a chair beside him.

“Come and sit here.” He invited. Hugh crossed the room and sat down. “I’m Paul Cready. Call me Paul. I teach Sport and physical training but I double up on woodwork. I’ve already heard on the grapevine that you’re called Hugh Douglas. The first day is always a bit mad. The boys are revved up and it’s easier to let them get it out of their system.”

“It makes sense.” Replied Hugh. “I somehow assumed it wasn’t like this every day!”

There was a general laugh and a small dark haired man who Hugh guessed was in his fifties sat down near them. “I’m George Warner and I try and drum Science and Maths into their thick little heads. It’s an uphill struggle with most of them. Charles here does Maths with the younger boys. I’ve never had the patience with the younger boys.” He shrugged.

Charles sat down and grinned. “I know enough to teach the basics up to Lower Third but I’m quite happy to leave the older ones to George. Geography is really my main subject but most of us teach two. It works quite well, though the timetable gets a bit tricky sometimes.”

A tall gaunt man with greying hair strode into the room, somehow exuding an air of impatience. He looked round irritably and took a chair a little apart from the others.

“Welcome back, Mr Cockcroft” said George Warner. “Good vacation?”

“At least it was peaceful!” was the curt reply. Mr Cockcroft looked at Hugh. “So you’re going to cover English and History. Where did you teach last?”

Hugh was rather disconcerted at this and felt a flush rising up his face. “This is my first post. I went in the RAF when I finished college.”

“Really. Wheeler is really scraping the barrel.” And he opened a copy of the Times and ignored the whole room.

Several of the staff rolled their eyes and Charles Evans mouthed “Ignore him.”

“Do we have many new boys, apart from the first form?” queried George “Anyone know?”

“There’s a few, about half a dozen.” Replied Charles, “though I don’t know anything about them. I gather we’re meeting after school tomorrow. We’ll have the test results in by then so we’ll have a better idea.”

The talk turned to school matters and Hugh was content to sit and listen as he grew gradually more sleepy.

He was brought back to wakefulness on hearing his name.

“Hugh, you look as tired as I feel. I’m turning in. Coming?”

Hugh responded with some thankfulness. “I think I will, Charles.”

They said goodnight and left the room. “Take no notice of Cockcroft. He’s a sour soul. He’s good at his job, though the boys learn more through fear than interest.” Charles said as they climbed the stairs. “It’s not you personally he doesn’t like. He’s like it with everyone. He thought he’d be appointed head when old Cruikshank retired. He didn’t stand a chance, of course. Apparently he’s always been like this. I think he’s been crossed in love!”

Laughing at the thought, they parted at the junction of the corridors and made their ways to their own rooms.

Hugh thankfully retired to bed and was asleep within minutes.

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 8:10 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Thu Feb 24, 2005 9:54 pm

Old misery Cockcroft! At least the others were able to reassure Hugh. Thanks Pat.

#143: Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England

Posted: Thu Feb 24, 2005 10:21 pm

Thanks, Pat, great as usual - all the characters are so real in my mind!

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

Posted: Thu Feb 24, 2005 10:56 pm

That as great Pat, thanks. Love the staffroom, always among my favourite scenes in any school story.

#145: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Fri Feb 25, 2005 1:02 am

Thanks Pat. That was a nice scene, Glad Hugh is being accepted by the staff.

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

Posted: Fri Feb 25, 2005 12:53 pm

Thanks Pat Wonder if there might be problems to come with Cockcroft, but I'm glad the other staff seem nice. Liz

#147: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Feb 26, 2005 7:19 pm

Reg woke early and lay thinking about the previous day. Generally, the boys had been friendly and he was relieved. Then he remembered that he would have to do tests this morning and his stomach churned at the thought.

Gradually he heard other boys stirring and suddenly an alarm clock rang and there was a thud of many feet hitting the floor. He quickly scrambled out of bed and wondered what he should do first. Thankfully he heard Chas Daley’s voice calling.

“Hanson, see to Entwhistle will you. I’ll look after young Hatherson.”

The next moment Hanson’s face appeared between his curtains, his hair tousled. “Grab your wash things and put your dressing gown on, quickly. We’ll get first baths. Come on.”

Reg obeyed and followed Hanson at a trot down the corridor. “We only have a quick splash, explained Hanson over his shoulder. Don’t make a mess and run the bath for the next boy while you dry. Only five inches of water, don’t forget, and watch it, the hot tap is really hot.”

Entering a room to one side, he saw a row of cubicles and heard the sound of splashing coming from within. Two doors opened and two slightly damp figures emerged. Hanson pushed him towards one of them.

“In there, quick.”

Reg, who had never lived in a home with a bathroom, was slightly bemused. He was used to a strip wash in the kitchen each evening and splashing his hands and face in the morning. Baths meant bringing in the bath from the shed on Fridays and carrying buckets! At least it had meant a long, leisurely soak. He had been surprised that the Maynards were so keen on bathing and he hadn’t quite realised it was a general thing, assuming it was an idea they picked up in Austria. Mrs Maynard had explained that they had to restrict the water in the bath to save fuel when he had first stayed with her. As in her house, a line was painted round the bath at the limited level.

Hanson was waiting for him, quick as he was, and rushed him back to the dormitory.

“Get dressed and I’ll show you what to do with your bed.” He said, giving Reg a little push. Reg dressed as quickly as he could and was waiting when Hanson reappeared, his tie a little crooked but his hair well brushed.

“Turn all the covers back over the chair at the end. We open the windows wide and let the whole place air while we have breakfast and then we come up afterwards to make our beds.” He suited action to words and said “Come on. Breakfast now!”

After Breakfast, they returned to the dormitory and made their beds. Then it was “Come on!” yet again to go to the Hall (as Hanson called the large room where they had assembled the previous evening) for prayers.

Each boy took a hymn book from a pile at the door and quietly made their way to seats. A grey haired man was playing the piano while they settled “Mr Reed.” murmured Hanson. “He teaches music.”

As the last boy entered, the staff filed in and Mr Wheeler stood at the Lectern to say a short prayer asking God’s blessing on the coming term. They then stood to sing a hymn and Reg was delighted to realise it was one he knew well. When it came to the chorus -

“Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Let the earth hear his voice!
Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Let the people rejoice!”

he sang out lustily and then realised that curious looks were coming his way from around him. Mr Reed was turning round to see who’s voice he could hear above the others. Embarrassed, he stopped singing and wished the floor would open up. Of the rest of the short service, he remembered nothing.

After a few instructions at the end, the boys filed out quietly. Hanson, still faithful to his task, took Reg along to a small classroom, set out with desks and chairs where the tests would be held, chattering all the way. “You’ve got a great voice,” he said. “Mr Reed will be all over you for the choir. Good luck. I’ll see you at break.”

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 8:11 pm; edited 1 time in total

#148: Author: keren, Location: Israel

Posted: Sat Feb 26, 2005 7:37 pm

great, pleased you did not make them have cold or lukewarm baths!.

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

Posted: Sun Feb 27, 2005 8:44 pm

Wonderful post Pat! Loved that Reg's voice is considered good.

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

Posted: Sun Feb 27, 2005 11:15 pm

Lovely Pat - can understand Reg's embarassment when everyone looks at him singingThanksLiz

#151: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Mon Feb 28, 2005 12:02 am

Wonderful - am off to bed all happy now!

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

Posted: Mon Feb 28, 2005 5:31 am

Hot Baths. Ohhh wot luxury. These boys just aren't as tough as the girls of the Chalet School! Looking forward to First Lessons.

#153: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Feb 28, 2005 3:56 pm

Young boys need hot water to scrub off all the dirt.

#154: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Mon Feb 28, 2005 10:55 pm

Thank you Pat. Love the description of the early morning not too different to the CS then.

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

Posted: Mon Feb 28, 2005 11:12 pm

Thanks for the updates Pat! Very Happy

#156: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 12:36 am

When Reg emerged from the classroom, it was with mixed feelings. The spelling had been easy. The history, not too difficult and the geography was, luckily identifying countries from maps, which he had always enjoyed. The maths had been another matter. Long division held no terrors but some of the questions had been completely beyond him. Mr Godwin, who had supervised the tests, had explained that they would not even try him in Science as he had done nothing but a little biology.

He went along to the refectory and found Dixon and Hanson waiting for him. “Come on.” Said Hanson, “Grab a glass of milk and some bread and butter. We can go outside as soon as you’re finished.”

Reg was soon finished and the three went out to the front of the house where boys were playing or talking in groups. Crossing the gravel in front of the house, they led him across the grass to where an old roller stood and perched on it.

“How did it go?” asked Dixon.

“The maths was awful. Lots of the questions I didn’t even understand. As for the rest, I think it was OK but I’ll have to wait and see. Mr Godwin said we’ll know soon after break.”

“At least they don’t keep you waiting. I came in the First Form so I never did tests like that. Oh, we had tests of course, but we knew which form we were in whatever the results.”

Suddenly a loud rattling noise came from the house where a small boy was vigorously swinging a football rattle.

“That’s the end of break.” Sighed Dixon, getting to his feet. He saw Reg looking puzzled. “Bells are only used for invasion or parachutists so the Head came up with this. I think he got fed up with people pretending not to hear someone call us in.”

The boys went their separate ways. Reg to the main house to hear the results of this tests and the others to the classrooms at the side.

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 8:12 pm; edited 1 time in total

#157: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 12:53 am

Love the football rattle - haven't seen of them for years! Glad the boys are so nice to Reg and that his test results mean he is with them in form. Also glad he didn't find them all too hard.

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

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 3:24 am

Wot's a football rattle? (I can't do long division either but I don't care 'cause I have a computer to do it for me)

#159: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 4:02 am

Excellent taste of school life Very Happy

. Also curious about the football rattle. It sounds rather like a "noise maker." It has a handle with a sort of ellipsoid part that can be twizzled around the handle to make a loud ratcheting noise. The neighbors had them for New Year's Eve, and kindly gave them and a few other sound-producing objects to us kids one summer day when we decided to dress up in crayoned newspaper and have a parade. My parents were not amused. Laughing

#160: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 8:30 am

Yes, I think that's right, Kathy. There's one on this site : http://www.musiccorner.co.uk/index.php?cPath=2026 as they are used in percussion as well. All small boys had them when I was young and the noise at a football (soccer) match had to be heard to be believed!

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

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 10:18 am

Has fingers crossed for Reg!

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

Posted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 3:23 pm

Thank you Pat!

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

Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 12:35 am

Thanks Pat - hope Reg can pick up the Science quickly - he'll need that to be a doctor. Liz

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

Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 1:24 am

patmac wrote:

All small boys had them when I was young and the noise at a football (soccer) match had to be heard to be believed!

I can remember on of the presenters from Blue Peter (kids tv programme) showing you how to make one in their Annual one year. I think it was Peter Purvis who made it Rolling Eyes

#165: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 6:00 pm

Also crossing fingers that Ned does well in his exams and gets to be with his new friends! Thanks Pat Very Happy

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

Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 6:08 pm

Josie wrote:

Also crossing fingers that Ned does well in his exams and gets to be with his new friends! Thanks Pat Very Happy

Ned? Think Jo is getting her drabbles confused!! Wink

#167: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 9:12 pm

A little more. The bunnies are running riot with another stage at the moment and I'm having to be very harsh with them to get any of this stage written. I've threatened them with being Mac's dinner so that should do the trick Twisted Evil

He lined up in the hallway with the other five new boys who were to enter the school above the First Form. He was quite a bit taller than any of the others and thought he was at least a year older.

After a few minutes. Mr Wheeler came to his study door and called the youngest boy in. Reg realised with a sinking heart that he was probably going to be last yet again. It was all he could do not to fidget, as some of they other boys were doing, as he waited.

After a couple of minutes, Simon Herrick, the Head Boy appeared and waited with them. It was a good ten minutes before the first boy came out of the study and was taken off by Herrick to join the Second Form.

The next boy went in and they all settled to waiting again. The Head Boy duly reappeared and departed with the next boy. The process was repeated till Reg was the only boy waiting, looking and feeling more and more worried. Herrick punched him on the arm.

“Cheer up! They think the older you are, the more waiting you can cope with. We’ve had second formers who’ve been in floods of tears at this point, thinking they’ve made a mess of the test. At least at our age, we don’t do that.” He said. “Anyway, the wait’s nearly over now.”

Reg returned the smile a little wanly. “It can’t be soon enough!” he said with a heartfelt sigh.

The study door opened and Mr Wheeler announced “Marlow is for Lower Four B, Herrick. Come in Entwhistle.”

Reg followed the Head into the room and across to the desk. Mr Wheeler sat behind his desk and opened a folder with Reg’s name on it.

“Sit down,” he said, “I’m sorry you were last, yet again. It’s that your name was last on the list yesterday and you are the oldest today. Most things here end up in alphabetical order so you should be farther up the list from here on.

Now you already know I’m Head Master here. That means that in the last resort, you come to me if you have problems you can’t solve. I would expect you to do your best to sort things out yourself but, if there’s anything bothering you, I’m usually here from the end of school till supper.

As you expected, your standard is patchy. From your last Head Master’s report, it seems you pick up things quickly and want to learn – which is what matters. We’ve decided to put you in Lower Four A. It’s partly because the boys in the A form are generally good workers so that will make it easier for you to work hard. We’ve also noticed you’ve already palled up with Dixon and Hanson. They’re both good sorts and will help whenever they can.

We hope we can bring you up to scratch to stay with the people who move on to Polgarth Senior School next year. That will keep you with your own age group and also get you to Matric at the right age.

A lot of that will depend on you, of course, but we think you can do it. I don’t want you to work yourself so hard you make yourself ill. That would just put you back more, but we’ll have to fit in extra coaching in Maths and you haven’t done any Latin or classics at all. I think we should forget you learning any other languages for the moment.

There’s no point in doing science till you have the Maths for it so we’ll give that a miss this term as well. That means that when the others have Maths, French or Science, you’ll be coached in Maths and Latin. We’ve got to work out who can fit it in but we’ll do it somehow. We may be able to fit in other sessions as well but we can’t skip some things.

You must get exercise but, unless you’ve a great yearning to do Art, we could drop that. What do you think?”

“I was never any good at Art. It was something I just had to do. To be quite honest my drawings were always terrible.”

Mr Wheeler laughed. “In that case let’s spare both you and Mr Drummond the pain. You’ll get at the very least Art Appreciation in Senior School. That gives us some more time. Some of it will have to be working on your own, of course. Whoever is coaching you will set you work based on the previous lesson and you’ll work in one of the smaller rooms in the main house.

I don’t want you to miss practical things like woodwork. It’s light relief from the more academic subjects and useful too. I would advise you to be careful which clubs and societies you join for a while. You don’t want to stretch things too far.”

Reg’s face dropped.

“I didn’t say don’t join any! Just be selective. What have you got your eye on?”

“Bird watching.” Reg replied, eagerly. “I love watching them. It’s one of the only things I can remember doing with my Dad and Dr Maynard is keen as well so I’ve been out once with him. I really would like to join that.”

“Of course you can. It’s a healthy outdoor activity as well so it will be a good relief for you from lessons. You’ll join your form for the rest of the day and we’ll have a timetable sorted by tomorrow morning. Good luck, Entwhistle.”

They both rose and the Head accompanied him to the hallway where Herrick stood patiently waiting.

“Lower Four A for Entwhistle. Thank you Herrick.”

And the two boys set off to their formroom at a smart pace.

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 8:15 pm; edited 2 times in total

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

Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 10:29 pm

How nice - funny that they are not teaching Science yet,considering that he's going to be a doctor - but understandable as he will need Maths first - good that they go into it so thoroughly. Thanks Pat.

#169: Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England

Posted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 11:28 pm

Thanks, Pat, a lovely new bit of drabble. I like the school (hot baths!!!), and the head, he seems really approachable.

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

Posted: Thu Mar 03, 2005 12:50 am

poor Reg being last again Glad that he's with his friends though and can do the bird watching Mr Wheeler seems lovely

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

Posted: Thu Mar 03, 2005 1:43 am

Thanks Pat - Hope Reg soon catches up with the rest of his form Liz

#172: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Thu Mar 03, 2005 1:47 am

Poor Reg he must have felt awful having to wait around like that but glad he is with his friends.

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

Posted: Thu Mar 03, 2005 11:46 am

Thank you Pat! Glad Reg is going to be with his friends and that they are trusting him to work so he can go up at the right time. Mr Wheeler seems really nice.

#174: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu Mar 03, 2005 2:47 pm

I do like Mr Wheeler, he's the perfect headmaster! Thanks Pat, loving Reg's schooldays *(note to Nell - got the name right this time!! Razz

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

Posted: Thu Mar 03, 2005 4:02 pm

Josie wrote:

*(note to Nell - got the name right this time!! Razz

Well done hon! You know I love you really!

#176: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Mar 03, 2005 6:43 pm

Nell wrote:

Josie wrote:

*(note to Nell - got the name right this time!! Razz

Well done hon! You know I love you really!

and I wasn't bothered, having done the same thing to someone else a few weeks ago!

#177: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Mar 03, 2005 8:03 pm

As they entered the room, all eyes turned to Reg. Hanson and Dixon grinned at him, as did several other boys he had met but there were a few who looked surprised to see him there.

Herrick marched him to the front of the class and Mr Evans thanked the Head Boy and sent him to his seat.

“Right, Entwhistle, let’s find you a seat.” Dixon and Hanson were both waving their hands frantically. “All right, you two.” Said Mr Evans, dryly. “I can see the empty seat between you. Go and join them Entwhistle before they explode! We’re just finding out how much of last term’s Geography sank into people’s heads at the moment as people are being called out to unpack.”

At that moment there was an interruption as three boys entered the room. “All unpacked? Who’s to go now?” asked Mr Evans.

“Hanson, Kelsey and Gibson, please Sir.” Was the reply.

“Ok, off you go. You three sit down and we’ll carry on. Right, next question.”

Reg listened quietly. This was very different from the village school! His new form mates were interested in the questions, eager to show they understood.

His previous classmates had scratched their heads, picked away at their noses and generally did the things children of that age do instead of their classroom work when they were bored. They had regarded lessons as something to be endured till reaching fourteen and being released into a man’s world. He had been the odd one out.

He was by nature a loner, not lonely, but not, somehow fitting in with the village children. So school had been a confusing and noisy experience. The other children were an independent lot, adventurous in spirit and not always willing to do as the teacher asked. He soon got used to their harum-scarum ways, but always remained a bit of an outsider, an onlooker rather than a participant.

The first glimmer of feeling that he might eventually belong in this world took root. The friendship of Dixon and Hanson and other boys was reassuring but this ……. This was different.

The door opened again and Hanson, Kelsey and Gibson reappeared. Hanson looked rather flushed. “Copley, MacDonald and Entwhistle next Sir.” Gibson volunteered.

“Right, off you go.”

The three boys set off. “Matron has us three at a time to unpack our trunks.” Explained MacDonald. “She checks what we’ve got against the list of what we should have. Then we have to take them to our cubicles and put them away tidily.”

The climbed the stairs and entered a large room. Trunks were piled at one end and three trunks stood on the floor beside tables. Matron, in her starched uniform, carrying a list and pencil and two burly man, who looked as though they would be happier outdoors, were waiting. Reg recognised his trunk and fished in his pocket for his key.

“Unpack your trunks and place the contents on the table.”

Reg produced his key and proceeded to unpack. Matron came across as soon as he was done and checked the contents off her list. She saw that everything was labelled and then instructed Reg to put his belongings into a large wicker basket which stood beside the table.

One of the men assisting Matron removed Reg’s trunk and placed it on the pile at the end of the room and by the time Reg had finished Matron had checked the other boys’ contents.

“Go with George to your dormitory and put it all away. Then come back with the empty basket.” Instructed Matron. “And no hanging about.”

One of the men lifted the wicker basket as if it was filled with feathers and Reg led the way to his dormitory. George dumped the basket on Reg’s bed and turned to leave.

“Thank you.” Called Reg at the departing figure and was rewarded by a slightly surprised smile from the man.

He was relieved when MacDonald appeared, accompanied by Matron’s other assistant. He put things away as best he could and then asked MacDonald to check he had done it right.

MacDonald pronounced that it would pass inspection and the two boys went into the corridor to wait for Copley. He emerged from his dormitory looking flustered.

“What’s up?” asked MacDonald. “You look like someone who caught the rough edge of Matron’s tongue.”

“There’s been a mix up. Some of Doug’s stuff was in my trunk so I suppose some of mine is in his! I can’t think how it happened. Matron was not amused. Anyway I’ve no socks and no shirts till someone can be sent over to Polgarth House to sort it.”

“Who packed your trunk?” asked MacDonald.

“My older sister. Mother won’t let us do them again after the trouble there was last year when I forgot to pack my shirts and Doug forgot his pullovers.”
MacDonald laughed. “I should think your sister is as bad as you two.”

They walked quickly along the corridor and ran as soon as they were out of the front door.

“Come on, I’ll race you.” Called MacDonald, as he outpaced the other two. “We don’t want to miss more than we have to.”

The entered the form room more sedately and Copley announced that Matron said all the trunks had now been unpacked but could Mr Evans please just check that no one had been missed.

“Anyone not unpacked?” asked Mr Evans to the class in general.

Receiving no reply, he waved the boys to their seats and asked a question about contour lines on maps.

A few minutes later, the lesson ended and the boys were dismissed to lunch.

Once outside, Reg obeyed the familiar cry of “Come on!” from Hanson and, together with Dixon raced over to the Refectory.

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 8:17 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Thu Mar 03, 2005 8:12 pm

Ahhhh! That's lovely - nice that Reg feels that he will belong there.

#179: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu Mar 03, 2005 8:22 pm

Lovely. So pleased that Reg has found his place in such an unexpected world. Thanks Pat

#180: Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England

Posted: Thu Mar 03, 2005 8:38 pm

Good to see Reg settling in, and seeing that there is a place for the more intellectually minded in this world!

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

Posted: Thu Mar 03, 2005 11:19 pm

Glad that Reg is beginning to settle in! Very Happy

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

Posted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 11:23 am

Glad Reg is starting to settle in and find his feet! Thank you Pat!

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

Posted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 2:17 pm

Thanks Pat - lovely to see Reg realising that in some ways he will be less of an outsider here than in his last school. And of course, we knew Auntie would make sure his trunk had everything it should! Liz

#184: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 11:00 pm

After lunch, the boys were let loose for half an hour and there was football and tag and various other games going on. Others were wandering round the lawn in groups, talking and laughing. A few were perched on the wall edging the lawn, reading. A couple of Masters were sitting on a bench at the front of the house to ensure all was well.

Reg was drawn into a group comprising Dixon, Hanson, Copley and MacDonald. They wandered across the lawn to the far side, chatting amiably.

“What games do you play?” MacDonald asked Reg.

“I’ve only ever played soccer and a bit of cricket.” Replied Reg. “Do we have to choose straight away?”

“No, we have to have a go at everything till we get to the senior school. Then we choose. If we get picked for a School team then we get extra practice anyway. I’ll stick with Soccer ‘cos it’s what I’m best at.”

“I shouldn’t think I’d stand a chance in a team. I’m not sure they’d let me even if I turned out to be really good, which isn’t likely. I’ve got to have extra coaching to catch up so Mr Wheeler warned me off joining too many things at first.”

“What coaching will you be having?” Hanson asked.

“Maths and Latin to start with. I’ve never done Algebra or Trigonometry and my geometry is not up to scratch. I’ve got to start Latin from scratch.”

Copley made a face. “I’m still below standard in Latin so I have extra lessons in that. I don’t think I’m cut out for it and I can’t see what use it will ever be.” The others laughed.

“I’ll have to get my head round it.” Said Reg, without thinking. “I want to be a doctor and they use Latin all the time.”

“Phew, you must be clever!” exclaimed MacDonald. “How come you know what you want to do? Does it run in your family?”

This was the question Reg had been dreading. These boys had been friendly but would their views change if they heard his tale.

“My Grandfather was. I never knew him ‘cos he died before I was born. My Dad wanted to but there wasn’t the money for the training so he became a teacher instead. Then he died when I was seven, and, as my mother was already dead, I went to live with Auntie. She’s really my Great Aunt. There wasn’t enough money for me to train for anything.

Now Dr Maynard is paying for me to come here and then do my doctors training.”

There was a few minutes silence as they walked on. The three boys had not expected such a wholesale confession and they were a bit embarrassed.

“I say,” said MacDonald a little shyly, “We didn’t mean to pry.”

This broke the ice and Hanson chipped in with, “Bully for you! I hope you get what you want. If I can help with Maths, just ask. As I told you last night, I can’t help being good at that. It just seems to come naturally. I only wish I was as good at History. I just don’t enjoy that and can’t wait till I can drop it.”

The talk turned to other subjects and Reg was back into listening and taking in all the information he was picking up about Masters and other boys. As they walked back towards the house, he learned that the next order of the day was to write letters home to assure their families that they had arrived safely.

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 9:55 am; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 8:12 am

How nice that the boys could just accept Reg's history. Thanks Pat.

#186: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 8:19 am

Thank you, Pat! It's great to see Reg finding that his attitude to classes will be seen as relatively normal. And yay for the welcoming classmates!

#187: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 9:19 am

I want to give Reg's classmates a great big hug. I'm so glad he's settling in so well. Obviously it isn't all going to be so smooth, but I was worried that he would get there and feel completely like a fish out of water. Thanks Pat. Lovely as ever.

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

Posted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 12:43 pm

Thanks Pat. I'm glad Reg told them about his background, so there's no misunderstandings where he's coming from. So pleased his friends accepted it as well and offered help/commiseration with his extra lessons Liz

#189: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 6:14 pm

Thanks Pat nice to see the boys are so understanding Of Reg's background and that he is beginning to find his feet a little.

#190: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 6:52 pm

The postmen were kept busy.

21st September 1943

Dear Auntie,

I arrived safely and have settled in and made some friends already. The Headmaster is really nice and is arranging for me to have extra coaching in Maths and Latin.

Guess what! The school has a farm and we all have to help with it. Tell Joe if you see him. He will laugh at that. I hope you are well.

Love Reg

21st September 1943

Dear Reg,

I hope you arrived safely.

All is well here and the pigs are going to the butcher tomorrow. He says I will get a good price for them so they were worth the work. One of the chickens that stopped laying last week is going with them.

The weather has stayed fine and I made five pots of gooseberry jam yesterday from the gooseberries at the Witchens. It was all the sugar I could spare. I am putting one jar aside for Mrs Maynard.

Mr Hart called yesterday and sends his best wishes.

Love Auntie

22nd September 1943

Dear Reg

I hope you have settled in at school and are liking it. We have been thinking about you and I have had to make a calendar for Tessa to mark off the days till you come to Phoebe’s wedding.

We have been busy making jam. Sybil showed us the bushes at the edge of the wood at the back of Frieda’s garden and we all gave some sugar from the rations and made twelve pounds. We have put one jar aside to give to Auntie and we shared the rest.

Sybil has gone back to school now and I probably will not see her till half term but she said she was going to write to you so you will hear more of her news than I do.

Phoebe continues to make progress. She said she would be writing as well. She has made a beautiful wedding dress and is embroidering it. I go to see her most afternoons, leaving Tessa to play with the triplets at Plas Howell, and we sew together.

Gerard has had a cold and Frieda has kept him away from the rest of us for the past few days. I do hope none of the other children get it.

Tessa sends a big kiss.

Love Simone.

24th September 1943

Dear Simone,

Thank you for your letter and the snap of Tessa. I have put it in a frame and it is on the mantelpiece where I can see it every day.

I saw Reg off on the train from Leeds. A very kind teacher was so reassuring that I felt a bit better. Poor man, he was all scarred. I expect he was one of those pilots one hears about.

It was still hard to see him go but I got a letter this morning and he is settling in.

There is not much change here except that the pigs went to the butchers this morning as well as one of the chickens which had stopped laying. I have more eggs than I need now with Reg away. I am putting some down in Isinglass and, if they would help this winter, I could ask Sir James to bring some back when they come to The Witchens in November. With all the bairns, you can always use a few more and you can share them as you need them.

Give my love to Tessa.

Yours affectionately,

Auntie Bertha

Last edited by patmac on Wed Mar 09, 2005 9:50 am; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 8:28 pm

Awww!!!!!! Lovely PatMac! Specially Auntie's letter!!!

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

Posted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 8:56 pm

I loved those letters PatMac! Very Happy

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

Posted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 9:45 pm

Lovely letters Pat. Very Happy

#194: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 10:12 pm

Thanks Pat those were lovely letters.

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

Posted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 10:52 pm

Awww those letters were lovely Patmac. Just caught up on a load of us and still loving it. its so nice to see that Reg's friends are bothered by his background/ambitions.

#196: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 11:25 pm

I've been catching up too and this is so good, Patmac! Thankyou very much - especially the letters, I love stories told in the form of letters.

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

Posted: Sun Mar 06, 2005 3:10 pm

They were lovely letters - I'm so glad to see Simone and Auntie are corresponding - and that they put jars of jam aside for each other! Thanks Pat Liz

#198: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Mar 09, 2005 7:45 am

Wonderful letters Pat, thanks.

I love the relationship between Auntie & Simone Very Happy

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

Posted: Wed Mar 09, 2005 10:36 am

Lovely letters, thank you Pat - love the way they show the relationships developing between Auntie and Simone.

#200: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Mar 09, 2005 6:15 pm