The Village Boy's Tale Part 5 : COMPLETE 30/04/05
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#401:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Tue Apr 05, 2005 6:39 am

Thanks for all the lovely posts! Great touch with the book loving, educator-to-be of a Chalet girl Very Happy. And Reg's return home was especially real.

 

#402:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Apr 05, 2005 8:31 am

Thanks Pat - that was lovely. Very Happy

Hatchards is still there in London.

Liz

 

#403:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Tue Apr 05, 2005 10:26 am

Lovely post, Pat, Smile and how true to life that now he's back home everything seems suddenly so much smaller. Hope it doesn't make him too sad.

 

#404:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Tue Apr 05, 2005 1:52 pm

Lovely post, great to see Reg so happy to be home again. Thank you Pat.

 

#405:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Tue Apr 05, 2005 5:39 pm

The same thing happened to me when I got back from college for the first time - everything seemed very small! However, it was wonderful having my own kitchen, bathroom, and lounge again!

Thanks for the lovely posts, Pat!

 

#406:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Apr 05, 2005 8:38 pm

Hugh spent the evening quietly in his room dipping into first one book and then another and generally relaxing. He retired to bed early with a copy of ‘The Nine Tailors’, an old favourite. Eventually he felt himself dropping off to sleep and, laying the book on the nightstand, he switched off the light and settled himself.

He felt relaxed. It had been a good day out in Leeds and it felt good to have some books again. Since his crash, he had lived with no belongings except his clothes and one snap of his mother and father which sat on his locker in the hospital and on his drawers here.

He hardly remembered his father who had died when he was five. The loss of his mother was a different matter, though he was glad she had not seen him as he was now. She would have found that hard to accept. Now he had some books and he would see if he could get a bookcase to put them in. It felt like a big step back into the normal world to have belongings of his own.

He would go back to Hatcherds one day soon. Perhaps he should write and thank Dorothy and her mother. Perhaps the next time he went, he could ask her to have lunch with him. She was so pretty when she smiled. Turning over he drifted off to sleep.

He spent most of the Saturday happily working on the car. John had asked the staff to work two days at the weekend and take the other two off. They had agreed between themselves that it would be better to take two days off together and get a complete break than to split the days. The boys were up to the Senior School to watch football matches so he had the place to himself.

He had lunch with Matron and the rest of the staff who were staying at school on their days off and then returned to work through the afternoon.

When he had finished, and tidied up, he was pleased with his progress. In addition to working on the brakes, he had mended the rear door lock so that it no longer needed tying with string. The car now had four mudguards and, although paint was needed, the worst of the dents were hammered out.

Across the playing fields he could see the boys streaming back towards Chaucer House and he hurried back into the house to avoid the inevitable questions. Charles had warned him that, if he wanted to get a full day off, he would need to be out of sight of the boys, most of whom were completely oblivious of the staff’s need for a day without their company once in a while.

The sky was threatening rain so his original plan to go for a stroll when he had bathed was put on hold. He would join the school for a cooked supper, which was being prepared for the evening as the boys had taken sandwiches to the football but for the moment he was glad enough to beg a cup of tea from Mrs Newby and return to his room and read for a while.

His room was on the top floor at the front and it was very quiet. He pulled his chair over to the window and, with his book unopened on his knee, gazed out of the window. The rain was just starting and looked as if it might settle in for the night.

He opened his book and read for a while, letting the familiar words wash over him. Eventually he had to close the thick curtains in order to turn on the light. It was the end of October and the nights were drawing in. He sat again and looked round the room. It was not large but plenty large enough for one person. The furniture was large and solid, the bed was comfortable but the room somehow looked unlived in. He could pack all his belongings in his case and leave and there would be no trace that he had been here.

He had been invited to visit Charles one evening for a drink and he had a small spirit stove to make early morning tea. There were pictures on the walls and a bright rug by the bed, instead of the drab brown one the school had provided.

If he was going to stay for a long while (and he was reasonably sure he was), perhaps he could get a few things for his room which would make it feel more like home. Come to think of it, he had not had a room of his own since late in 1939 when he was called up. Four years of institutional living had left him indifferent to his surroundings, till tonight.

Today had brought a change in his thinking and he began to put down roots – only small as yet, but they might well dig deep.

 

#407:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Apr 05, 2005 8:45 pm

Thanks Pat Very Happy

I loved this line:
Quote:
Her face had lit up as she saw him and he realised, for the first time, just how much she thought of him.

So glad he's come to that realisation. Lovely to see him changing from taking her for granted, as all kids do with their parents.

Great to see Hugh beginning to really feel at home too. I do hope your bunny lets himn have a romance with Dorothy, he certainly deserves it!

 

#408:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Apr 05, 2005 10:01 pm

Lovely posts Pat, great to see Reg suddenly realise how much he needs his Auntie, and that Hugh is putting down roots.

Thank you.

 

#409:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Apr 06, 2005 8:52 am

Glad Hugh is starting to feel this could be home

Thanks Pat

Liz

 

#410:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Wed Apr 06, 2005 10:17 am

Glad to see Hugh is putting down roots and starting to feel at home.

Thank you Pat.

 

#411:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Apr 06, 2005 6:03 pm

The weekend passed all too quickly. Reg spent quite a lot of time sitting with Auntie and telling her all about life at school. He made light of his feeling of tiredness, which was lifting now anyway as he was catching up on his sleep.

On the Saturday afternoon, he rode his bike up past Many Bushes and The Witchens, both now empty, though Auntie had told him that Phoebe had let her cottage and new people would be moving in soon. He rode on up the hill and onto the track that led to High Royd. Mr Ormerod was in the yard and directed him up onto the moor itself where Joe would be found. Leaving his bike, Reg climbed till he saw his friend, bending over a sheep. He came up behind him quietly and waited. Joe let the sheep go and it ran off.

“Hello, Joe.” Said Reg.

His friend turned and grinned widely. He looked weather-beaten and broader than Reg remembered, with his shirt straining at the seams.

“I heard you was coming home this weekend.” He said. “I wondered if you would get up to see me.”

“What were you doing with the sheep?” asked Reg, curiously.

“I were checking for ticks. It’s been a bad year for them, though we’ve escaped the worst. We’ll be bringing them down to dip them and feed them up for tupping in a week or so, so Mr Ormerod wanted me to check them before we bring them down.”

“I didn’t bring the kites, I’m afraid. There’s not enough wind anyway.”

“I wondered if you would remember that.” Joe smiled. “Maybe next time.”

He looked round to the West. “I think we’re in for some weather. It’s too still and the sky looks brassy over yonder. Let’s walk down to the farm and we can talk as we go.”

They walked in silence for a few minutes and then Reg asked “Are you happy up here, Joe?”

“Aye, I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. I’ve all this space, just me and the sheep. ‘Tis hard work and long hours but I love it.”

“I see you’re getting well fed.” Joked Reg, punching Joe on the arm. “Ouch, that’s not fat, that’s muscle!”

“The sheep are heavy and you soon get muscles heaving them around. Anyway, what about you? You’re thinner than ever!”

Reg indicated his wrists and ankles, poking beyond his clothes. “I’ve grown again. Everyone says I’ll fill out when I stop going upwards, but goodness knows when that will be. I’m not quite thirteen yet, so there’s years to go.”

“Well, come in and see if Mrs Ormerod has some cakes made. She usually bakes on Saturday.” He cast a practiced eye to the West. “I reckon you’ve time before that weather arrives.”

Mrs Ormerod was indeed baking and welcomed Reg into her large kitchen.

“Sit you down, young Reg. Out you go, Joe, wash your hands at the pump before you even think of sitting down!”

Joe grinned at her, not noticeably upset by what was obviously a regular command.

“How are you getting on at that school, Reg?” she asked as she trimmed the pastry round the edge of a pie. “You’ve grown some, but you’re thinner than you were. Do they feed you well?”

Reg was beginning to feel self conscious about his growth which he had not noticed at school.

“I’m enjoying it, thank you. They feed us right well. We’ve got our own farm so we don’t lack for food.”

“A farm, you say? What do they keep on it?”

“We’ve pigs, mostly Saddlebacks, and Swaledale sheep. We’ve got a milk herd and beef cattle. We all take turns to help out once a week. We help with the vegetables, too.”

Mrs Ormerod stopped in surprise. “Well, I never! I never would have thought it!”

Reg laughed. “Some of the boys come from cities and they don’t all like it but a lot of us do. It’s something we can do for the War Effort and, the Head says everyone should learn as much as they can about lots of things. Then we grow up ‘rounded’. I think he means we don’t think book work is everything.”

“Sounds a sensible man!”

Joe came back in with passably clean hands and Mrs Ormerod cut huge slices of cake for the two boys, exclaiming in mock horror at the speed with which they ate.

After thanking her, Reg set off for home, coasting down the hill with his feet off the pedals, till he felt the first drops of rain and then pedalled as fast as he could for shelter.

On the Sunday, Reg did not attend Morning Service. He was no longer in the choir and he could not face sitting in the congregation and facing the questions about his new life. He particularly did not want to face Mrs Hart. The Vicar had been kind but the Vicaress was another matter.

Auntie had stopped going to Church after Bert had died. For some time she had lost her faith in a benevolent God. How could He (if he existed at all) have taken away her love, her support, her reason for being? The well meaning offers of sympathy just rubbed salt into the wound.

Her eventual regaining of her faith owed nothing to the rituals she had blindly accepted since her childhood. It was grounded more in the cycle of the seasons, the wonder of rebirth. It was a primitive belief which rejected the platitudes of the Church, and she could not have found the words to express it, but was none the less strong.

It being a wet morning, they spent the time quietly in doors and then after dinner, when the sun came out, Reg went a chopped a load of wood. It was getting colder at night now and, though Auntie had some coal, the ration would not last without burning some wood. He stacked it neatly and cleaned the axe and put it carefully away before going back into the house.

Auntie was sitting by the fire, knitting and when she saw him come in, she suggested he might like to go out for a while. Reg looked a little doubtful.

“Are you sure? I have to go back tomorrow and I haven’t had much time with you.”

“No, lad, you get off and enjoy the sunshine. I’m fine now I know you’re all right. Besides, I’m going to turn the heel on this sock and, if we talk, I’ll get muddled.”

“If you’re sure, then I’ll go up to the tops. It’s a grand afternoon now.”

Reg set off up the hill and did not stop till he reached the very top where the view stretched on every side. It was too wet to sit down so he walked along the track, slowly. The next time he came home it would be winter and there might be snow up here. Eventually, he turned and walked slowly back down the hill, unconsciously gaining strength from the landscape. He decided, then and there, that he would never settle in flat country. He needed hills – or better still mountains, like the ones in Austria in the snaps he had seen at the Maynards. Perhaps he would go there someday.

His tummy rumbled and he realised he would be late for tea if he didn’t hurry, so he put such fancies aside and ran the last part of the descent, hoping there would be cake for tea.

 

#412:  Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Wed Apr 06, 2005 6:29 pm

I'm loving this, Pat. Apart from everything else there are so many wonderful little twists - like Hugh meeting someone from the Chalet School!

It's going to take you ages if you really mean to go all the way through to Prefects though. I hope you do, but by my reckoning you've still got about 13.5 years to go!

 

#413:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Apr 06, 2005 7:17 pm

Joey wrote:
It's going to take you ages if you really mean to go all the way through to Prefects though. I hope you do, but by my reckoning you've still got about 13.5 years to go!


I may not last that long! I started posting it in November and am now about 10 months through the first year. that makes about 7 years to go, if I take holidays here and there,

If the bunny lets me, I should be moving forward more rapidly after this part. that means I may be finished before I pop my clogs!

Hugh, I never intended to develop - in fact he came out of the blue with no warning. He has complicated things no end!

The last post in this story is already written - and I didn't write it, but the author has kindly allowed me to use it. I only hope I can do it justice.

Thanks for the encouragement! That goes for everyone who has read and commented. I didn't really expect it to be widely read and is really being written because the bunny bit!

 

#414:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Wed Apr 06, 2005 7:27 pm

Lovely, Pat. Very Happy Very Happy

Keep it going as long as you like. I hate it when I have to say goodbye to well-loved characters at the end of a book. Wink

 

#415: A Village Boy's Tale Part 5 Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Wed Apr 06, 2005 7:57 pm

Pat, I'm just loving the way both Hugh and Reg are developing - please don't let the fact that Hugh wasn't intended to have such a large role deter you from letting us see more of him!

Also good to see that Reg, despite the vast contrast of his new school life, still loves his home, Auntie and his friends there.

Looking forward to more of both!

 

#416:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Wed Apr 06, 2005 8:18 pm

I'm loving this Pat. Will be very happy for you to continue for as long as the bunny bites!

 

#417:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Apr 06, 2005 8:27 pm

Wonderful Pat - thank you.

 

#418:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Apr 06, 2005 9:24 pm

Really lovely Pat.

And keep it going as long as you like - we'll definitely be here to read it Very Happy Wink Very Happy Laughing

 

#419:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Wed Apr 06, 2005 9:37 pm

This is wonderful Pat and I'm glad the bunny bit. It is good to see the characters develop and you have such a sympathy for them and communicate this to us so well that we have developed it as well. It would be lovely to see it carried on until Reg's wedding, or even futher, but 'as the bunny bites'.

 

#420:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Wed Apr 06, 2005 11:16 pm

I really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really love this story Pat. Please just go with the bunny Smile

 

#421:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Thu Apr 07, 2005 12:29 am

Just wonderful Pat



Once you've got us up to Prefects with Reg, you can keep going with him and Len and what happens afterwards.....and then there's Hugh, it would be nice to have his life story too and Dorothy and her mother and the other staff and.....

Very Happy

 

#422:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Thu Apr 07, 2005 1:08 am

Thank you Pat some ovely posts since I last caught up here. Love the scene with Hugh in the bookshop. Hope we see more of him and Dorothy.

Love Reg being at home. Am sure everyone gets that home feeling small thought when they first leave home.

 

#423:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Apr 07, 2005 10:27 am

Thanks Pat - that was lovely.

I loved the way Reg's mind quickly moved from the dreaming of mountains to the practicalities of if there would be cake for tea - so real!

Liz

 

#424:  Author: keren, Location: Israel PostPosted: Thu Apr 07, 2005 11:14 am

I like the mountains referring to his future.
I really like this story too.

 

#425:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Apr 07, 2005 7:44 pm

Dawn wrote:

Once you've got us up to Prefects with Reg, you can keep going with him and Len and what happens afterwards.....and then there's Hugh, it would be nice to have his life story too and Dorothy and her mother and the other staff and..... Very Happy


Dawn! I thought you were my friend Crying or Very sad



Dear Simone,

Thank you for your letter. I am so pleased that you had a letter from your husband and that he is well. It must be so hard when you don’t hear from him for a long time. Don’t worry that Tessa will have forgotten him. I know you talk of him to her and show her his photographs and I am sure she will recognise him when he comes home again. She is very young and I’m sure she will be all right.

Reg came home for half term. He has grown again and looks even thinner. I know everyone says he will fill out when he has stopped growing but he is not quite thirteen and he may go on growing for some years yet.

He looked so tired when I met him in Leeds. I am really worried. He says he is enjoying school and has made some friends but he had shadows under his eyes and couldn’t wait to get out onto the moors by himself.

I am sorry to bother you but I really do not know who else to tell. You see his father was the same. His mother, who was my niece that I’ve told you about, said his Dad needed lots of time alone. She was worried that it was strange for a man but I told her Bert was the same. If he got in crowds of people he would get all yonderly and it was just as if he sort of switched off.

If Reg is the same I don’t know how to help him. When he lived here I just let him go off for the day but I can’t do that now he is at school and they don’t seem to have any time to themselves and I am fretting about it. He looks as if he is outgrowing his strength and I am worrying that he will be ill.

I don’t want to ask Mrs Maynard. I don’t know why but I think she would not understand and would think it a bit strange that he would need to be alone. Should I write to the Headmaster? It sounds like I am making a fuss and Reg would hate that.

I had a nice letter from Lady Russell the other day. They are coming for a short holiday with the new baby next Saturday. She asked me to see Mrs Purvis and arrange for the house to be dusted and aired and to get some food in for them. She says she would like me to go to tea while they are here as we have never met. I have heard so much about her from the rest of you, it will be nice to meet her. I started to wonder what she is like but remembered she is Mrs Maynard’s sister so I expect she looks like her.

I am really looking forward to seeing you again when we come down for Phoebe’s wedding.

Yours affectionately

Auntie Bertha


…………….


Dear Auntie Bertha

Thank you for your letter. I am sure you are right about Tessa. I just worry sometimes. It seems so long since we saw him.

I am sorry you are worried about Reg. I think you are right not to write to Joey about it. She seems to thrive on being with people and that is just as well as she seems to have a houseful all the time. I don’t think I could cope as she does. I need my quiet time as well.

I think Jack would understand. He goes off to his study to work quite a lot and I’ve sometimes wondered if it is because he gets no time to himself. He’s so busy at the San and then comes home to a house full of people. Don’t get me wrong. He’s as big hearted as Joey and happy to help people who need it but I’ve sometimes seen his face go blank as if he’s somewhere else. I like the word ’yonderly’, that’s just how he looks.

If you write to him at the San, that would be the best thing.

The preparations for Phoebe’s wedding are coming on nicely. She is just having the triplets for bridesmaids because she wants to keep it quiet. There will be just us four and our families, you and Reg and, of course, Debbie. Frank's brother, his wife and Archie are coming as well. The dress is finished and it is lovely. She will wear Joey’s veil and we managed to get some nice light shoes by hunting all the shoe shops in Armiford and, just when we thought she would have to get married in her ordinary shoes, Marie went in this little shop and found a pair. Phoebe has very small feet and these had been made for someone before the war and they had never come to collect them. They fit as if they had been made for her. The shopkeeper wouldn’t take any coupons and let her have them for a ridiculously low price. I think he was glad to get rid of them. Jack is very nervous about giving Phoebe away. It is really funny to think that he would be nervous about anything.

Oh, I must tell you something else. Debbie came to tea one day and insisted on starting on our garden. I felt bad at first because I really am no good at things like that and it seemed wrong that she should be doing it for me but she says she is going out of her mind with not enough to do and she really enjoys gardening. I’ve helped her dig the front garden and we have planted some daffodil bulbs which Joey was digging up. She says they get crowded and then don’t flower so you have to thin them out. There, see how I am learning the right words to use! Marie had sowed some wallflower seeds and they have come up so well she is giving spare plants to everyone so I have some of those as well. The weather has been too bad to do any more but I expect she will be back on the first fine day we have.

Lady Russell is not very like Joey as she is a lot shorter and her hair curls but you can see they are sisters. She is much quieter than Joey and, of course, she is quite a lot older. When I first went to the Chalet School she seemed so grown up and now I realise that she was not much older than I am now. I am sure you will like her and little Ailene is a lovely baby.

I must go now because it is Tessa’s bed time. She is counting the days till you and Reg come.

Love from your niece

Simone.

 

#426:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Apr 07, 2005 7:49 pm

Oh Pat those are such lovely letters- you can really see the closeness between the two of them. So right what Simone says about Joey - she does always love having people around her - and what she said about Jack rings true too!

Thank you.

 

#427:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Thu Apr 07, 2005 8:54 pm

patmac wrote:
Dawn wrote:

Once you've got us up to Prefects with Reg, you can keep going with him and Len and what happens afterwards.....and then there's Hugh, it would be nice to have his life story too and Dorothy and her mother and the other staff and..... Very Happy


Dawn! I thought you were my friend Crying or Very sad



But I am Pat - I just worry about you gettting bored with nothing to do all day Wink








ducks and hides as quickly as possible Very Happy







Kiss




seriously - I am enjoying this so much and it would be great to hear more about everyone, but I know you are a very busy person

 

#428:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Apr 07, 2005 10:08 pm

Thanks Pat - they were lovely letters

Liz

 

#429:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Apr 07, 2005 11:44 pm

Oh bless them!

What gorgeous letters. Love Simone's sign off.



Keep feeding those bunnies Dawn. Shout if you need any more carrots Twisted Evil

(me try and get you back Pat? Never!) *looks innocent*

 

#430:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Fri Apr 08, 2005 4:06 am

Triffic letters Pat.

Love Simone Smile

 

#431:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Fri Apr 08, 2005 6:32 am

Thanks for more lovely long posts. Yes indeed, the longer the better for this series. Very Happy

Can anyone provide the Latin for wallflowers? They often appear in English novels, but not in my garden catalogs -- so presumably they're called something else, or can't take heat and/or drought. Searches give conflicting results (and much more about wallflowers cowering in the rest room during school dances).

 

#432:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Apr 08, 2005 7:46 am

Guess that's up my street! Mine are just coming out now.

Cheiranthus cheiri, family Brassicaceae, related to Erysimum. Technically, a perennial but more often grown as a biennial as they are prone to becoming rather leggy.

I think you grow Erysimum Asperum in America?

 

#433:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Fri Apr 08, 2005 8:06 am

I can't believe it has been so long since I caught up with Reg (and Hugh, what a SLOC!)

This is marvellous Pat.
I hope it doesn't really take you seven years to finish. Laughing

 

#434:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Apr 08, 2005 10:18 am

What lovely letters, Pat. Definitely an *aahhhhhhh* factor. Smile Smile

There are so many different characters' thoughts and feelings in this story. It's wonderful.

 

#435:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Apr 08, 2005 11:15 am

Pat this is lovely please keep posting as long as you like.

 

#436:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Fri Apr 08, 2005 1:28 pm

Thank you Pat those are lovely letters. Glad Auntie was able to write to Simone for advice rather than bottling things up. Also better that she didn't writr yo Jo who would probably have dismissed it as Reg needing to settle down.

 

#437:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Fri Apr 08, 2005 3:27 pm

This just gets better and better Pat! Thank you hunny!

 

#438:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Apr 08, 2005 9:13 pm

Thank you, everyone. Embarassed



The second half of term began with bad weather and the boys were confined to the house for days at a time, which did them no good at all and all the staff agreed that they had to get them out for some exercise before they exploded. John wandered into the staff room one evening for a coffee and was treated to a tirade by some of the staff who were having problems with getting the boys to concentrate.

It was decided that on the Saturday, no matter what the weather, rambles would be organised. The school would split into four groups, with a mix of boys in each, and two masters with each group.

They set to work to plan, putting a few of the youngest boys and some of the older but less fit boys into one group which would take a shorter walk. Hugh, cheerfully volunteered to go with this group as his leg would not cope with the scrambling up hills that was planned for the others. Miss Hulton decided that she would prefer the shorter walk in order to keep an eye on the little ones.

Many of the groups sorted themselves as the Inseparables were not the only close group of friends within the school but there was absolute insistence on the part of the staff that Molyneux and his cronies should be split up.

“He leads that crowd round like a flock of sheep. I don’t mind naughtiness, but they are just nasty at times.” Said Paul. “He thinks he is above such things as sport and just hangs around and spoils the game for the others.”

There was a murmur of agreement.

“He’s never quite rude enough to pull him up for anything. You can take most of the things he says two ways. If you challenge him, he just smiles and always has a plausible explanation. He’s a snob and a bully.” Added George Warner with feeling.

“I caught him sneering at Hatherson. You know he had problems at the start of term. It was just homesickness and that needs encouragement. Well, he wasn’t getting it from Molyneux! He was calling him ‘Mummy’s boy’ and the poor little chap was nearly in tears.” Miss Hulton was quick to add.

“What did you do?” asked Charles, curiously.

“Oh, I just reminded him, in front of Hatherson, that he had been so upset when he started that he had wet his bed every night for the first half term!”

There was a general laugh.

“I’ve kept my eye on him since, though! If I see him near any of the little ones, I go over on some pretext so he doesn’t get a chance to do any harm.”

Hugh sighed with relief. “It’s not just me then. He has that way of looking at you – you know. Almost looking down his nose when you pull him up for something. He’s attracted weaker boys to him and that’s what worries me.”

John was sitting back, puffing on his pipe and listening carefully. They all turned to look at him, expectantly.

He sat up and looked round the staff.

“None of you have told me about any of this. I’ve been concerned that his work is not up to scratch but he doesn’t dare give me any trouble. I know he’s gathered a little group round him of the weaker boys but we do try not to interfere in their friendships. I need to hear about things that go on, particularly bullying. I won’t have it in this school. Why didn’t you tell me about it, Miss Hulton?”

“I dealt with it at the time and I’ve not seen any evidence of it since. It’s only tonight, hearing that other people have problems with him, that I felt it was worth the telling.”

“We’ve all been too busy this term.” John said, looking troubled. “We’re stretched to the limits and we don’t get the time to sit and chat in the evenings like we used to. That’s when things like this come to light. We need to watch him, and I agree we should break that little group up whenever possible. I’ll talk to the boy tomorrow, pointing out that his behaviour is not what we are willing to accept. I’ll make it clear to him that one more instance of bullying and he is out! If I’m not satisfied with his response, I shall write to his parents.

I don’t like expulsion. I always feel we’ve failed if we have to do that, but I’ll not have other boys harmed by one. Split up the group for Saturday, but leave him with one friend, otherwise we’re being unfair to him. “

The groups were sorted out and it was agreed that lists would be put on the Notice Board on Friday evening.

John drained his coffee and stood up.

“You must tell me about anything like this. If we all keep things to ourselves, things can get out of hand. Don’t try and spare me. It’s my job to know what is going on.”

“Have you had any luck with the adverts?” asked Charles.

“Unfortunately, not. I’ve had a couple of replies but one wasn’t in any way suitable and the other wrote the next day to withdraw his application. I suppose he got an offer that suited him better.”

He nodded to them all and left the room.

“I hate to add to his problems.” Said Arthur O’Sullivan. “He’s got enough on his plate at the moment.”

“He’s right, though.” Charles responded. “It’s adding up all the little things that make the whole picture. I’ve found Molyneux pretty objectionable and I just can’t get through to him at any level. Let’s all keep our eyes open and hope that a little trip to the Study to see John will do the trick. I’ve seen him crack harder nuts than Molyneux in the past.”

He looked at the clock.

“Goodness, look at the time. It’s my turn to do dormitory rounds and I’m half an hour late. I’ll have to go.”

They all got up and the cups were quickly cleared and they retired to bed.

 

#439:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Apr 08, 2005 10:13 pm

Hmmm, wonder if Reg has had any problems with Molyneux?

Thanks Pat - lovely to see behind the scenes with the Staff.

 

#440:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Apr 08, 2005 11:54 pm

Lesley wrote:
Hmmm, wonder if Reg has had any problems with Molyneux?.


I think if he hasn't already, then he will have soon!

Thanks Pat. As Lesley said, lovely staffroom scene.

 

#441:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Apr 09, 2005 5:29 pm

Thanks Pat - good to see the staff talking over things and John dealing with the situation.

Liz

 

#442:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Sun Apr 10, 2005 10:49 am

Thanks, Pat. I do like the way the staff interact. That Molyneaux sounds like he'll be an increasing problem, though...

I've now found a wallflower picture in one of my own books, The Gardener's Palette. Embarassed Can't say I've seen it or the American version live, though. The only cultivated Brassicaceae I've noticed hereabouts (not counting cabbages and such) is dame's rocket (Hesperis matronalis).

 

#443:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Apr 10, 2005 1:52 pm

Kathy, we'll need a gardening thread soon Wink

Does this look like your Dame's rocket?

http://www.butterflygarden.co.uk/plants/hesperis.htm

ETA, just thought of this seed catalogue so you can browse!

http://www.johnsons-seeds.com/details/5006.html

Last edited by patmac on Sun Apr 10, 2005 1:56 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#444:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Sun Apr 10, 2005 1:56 pm

Hmmm, really don't like the sound of this boy. Bullying is horrible, and cowardly as well. Let's hope somebody teaches him a lesson!

Thanks for all the lovely posts since I was last here, Pat!

 

#445:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Apr 10, 2005 4:35 pm

The lists were duly posted on Friday after supper and there was much cheering as the boys crowded round the notice board.

The four groups would go in different directions.

The smallest and less fit were going to walk by a footpath through the woods and down to the river which flowed through the valley. Crossing by an old packhorse bridge, they would finish at a local Public House, which had made a room available for them to eat their sandwiches. They would then walk back by a more direct route which led across the playing fields. There would be 23 boys in all. 15 from the First Form and the rest from farther up the school but too frail or unfit to attempt a serious walk on the moors. After some consultation with Miss Hulton, Hugh had met with the older boys and persuaded them that they had been chosen to help with the First Form.

In all except one case, he managed this rather well and the boys were preening themselves at taking responsibility for the ‘babies’. The exception was an undersized boy from Lower four B who wore a built up boot and had a curved spine. Most of the time, he kept up, made light of his problems and had made friends with a group who appeared not to even notice his handicap. On this occasion, he would be separated from his friends who could tackle one of the more strenuous walks and Hugh recognised the scepticism in his expression.

As the boys dispersed, Canning was the last to leave and Hugh called him back.

“I’m sorry you can’t go with your friends.” He said, picking his words carefully. “I’d love to go up on the moors but I can’t, either. My leg isn’t up to it.”

Canning tried to smile but didn’t really succeed. “I know, Sir. It’s just …. Well, sometimes it gets to me. They say there’s another operation I can have later but it won’t sort it all out and it will mean a year in hospital. It’s not fair.”

Hugh put his hands on the boy’s shoulders.

“I know.” He gave a wry smile. “I’m probably the only person here who does really know. Do you sometimes dream that you are running over the hills?”

Canning looked startled. “How did you know?”

“I do, too.” Said Hugh simply.

Canning looked at him in amazement. “I never knew cripples dreamed that.” He looked embarrassed. "Sorry, Sir. I didn’t mean you are a cripple. It just slipped out.”

Hugh gave his lopsided grin. “Don’t worry. I’ve heard worse, and I’ll bet you have too. I’ve never told anyone about the dream either. I just somehow guessed you might have it too. It’s our secret?”

Canning’s face slowly lit up with a smile which came near to breaking Hugh’s heart. He nodded.

“I’ve always thought I was the only one who dreamed that. I know I’m lucky really. Getting to a normal school and everything. When I was first ill, they thought I would never walk again. They thought I didn’t know but I heard things.

I just can’t be thankful all the time and then I feel guilty because there are boys much worse off than me.” He shuddered. “I was about a year in a big sanatorium and some of the boys on the ward were much worse off than me. Some of them died.”

Hugh gestured to his face. “You might not believe it but there were lots of men in the hospital with me who were in a much worse state than this. We’re both lucky. We can walk and I can at least see with one eye. Some of my friends at the hospital can’t see at all or walk and some of them died.”

He hesitated, not sure how much else to say.

Canning looked him straight in the eye. “Thank you, Sir.”

With that, he left the room and Hugh sat down again and put his head in his hands. Pulling himself together, he left the room. After all if a twelve year old could cope, it was the least he could do to follow his example.

 

#446: A Village Boy part 5 Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Sun Apr 10, 2005 5:17 pm

Patmac, this was beautifully handled.

I know the saying 'it takes one to know one' is a hackneyed one, but it's wonderful that Hugh was able to empathise with Canning in this way, even though we might wish that the situation was different for both of them.

It's also wonderful that Canning has such a caring group of friends -boys of that age can be so cruel when they want to be, and the fact that this group don't allow his limitations to get in the way of their friendship is very heartening.

 

#447:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sun Apr 10, 2005 5:24 pm

That was so moving, Pat.

Kathy, do you perhaps know wallflowers by an alternative name such as Gillyflowers? alternatively, use this link below to see them.

Thompson & Morgan Seeds
seeds.thompson-morgan.com

 

#448:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Apr 10, 2005 6:47 pm

Thank you Pat, very moving.Glad that Hugh and Canning have each other.

 

#449:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Sun Apr 10, 2005 7:47 pm

Thank you Pat - so glad Hugh was able to talk to Canning like that and that Canning was mature enough to see it as it was - straight and to the point.

You just keep coming up with more characters for us to want to know more about!!!

 

#450:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sun Apr 10, 2005 8:08 pm

Lovely, moving post, Pat, thank you.

All of your characters are really appealing.

 

#451:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Apr 10, 2005 11:03 pm

What a lovely update Pat. Glad that Hugh can not only understand Canning, but gain some strength from him too.

thanks

 

#452:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Apr 10, 2005 11:54 pm

Thank you for that Pat. It must have been tough for Hugh to open up like that.

Liz

 

#453:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Apr 11, 2005 6:26 pm

The Inseparables were in a group of twenty boys who would attempt to reach the top of a nearby high moor in the company of the Head and Mr Cready, provided the clouds were not too low. It was not a difficult climb, more a scramble in places and both masters had done it with groups of boys many times before and were confident that the boys could manage it.

After some reminders from the Head about safety and a check that all were stoutly booted and carrying waterproofs, they set off across the fields to where the moor began. The hill was not steep at first and the boys set off in informal groups, led by the staff who set a slow but steady pace.

The five friends were near the back of the pack, and wandered along chatting.

“You live not far from here.” Dixon queried of Reg. “Are the moors near your home the same as these?”

“The nearest ones aren’t. We’re on sandstone and they tend to be steeper and the top is more like steep outcrops of stone. Some of them are like cliffs and you can climb them. Not that Auntie ever knew of course! Here it’s limestone and the tops are flatter. You can see ever so far from the tops – at least when the weather is good. I sometimes go up on Grosmont Moor and I can see right across to the sea, which is a long way away.”

“How exciting for a village orphan.” A sneering voice from behind, interjected.

They swung round and saw Molyneux had come up behind them with his crony, Cobb.

Dixon laid a warning hand on Reg’s arm but Hanson stepped forward and, looking more angelic than ever, smiled up at Molyneux.

“Oh, but I hear you’re family lives in the country now, Molyneux.”

To the other boys’ surprise, Molyneux turned a dull red with fury.

“At least we’re not poor like your people. One day, we’ll be back. My father is very clever. He says ……”

A call from the front of the group interrupted him as Mr Cready noticed that the boys had stopped. They set off again and, as they passed the Master, he fell in behind them and the conversation was not resumed.

As they emerged onto a flatter area, the Head dropped back and spoke to Mr Cready in low tones.

“What was that all about?”

“I don’t know. Entwhistle looked ready to fight with his shadow. Hanson had that supremely angelic look which suggests he’s just put the cat among the pigeons and Molyneux looked ready to explode. How did you get on with Molyneux yesterday?”

“Stony silence and what appeared to be utter incomprehension as to the very idea that he could be wrong. I can’t help feeling we’ve failed that boy somewhere, though we’ve tried to get through to him. He’s always had a superior attitude, he gets it from his father. He’s something big in finance and thinks money buys anything. He’s certainly worse this term. Last year I thought he was growing out of it but it seems I was wrong. I know they’ve moved from London to their house in Scotland, perhaps there’s something wrong at home. I’ve written to his father warning him that the boy is in danger of being sent home. Perhaps his reply will give a clue.”

“You know, I’ve heard something about a Molyneux recently. I can’t remember what. Why don’t you see if one of the Governors knows something. Sir Julian might know. He’s in London.”

“I tried to phone him last night but he was out. I’ve a call booked for this evening. I’m glad we brought them out. At least they’re not cooped up in the common Room, arguing.”

Molyneux and Cobb had gone on ahead and the Inseparables relaxed again.

Dixon looked round at the landscape. “It’s funny, you know. These moors are not like the ones at home. I’d not really thought about it before.”

“That’s Dartmoor, isn’t it? Reg queried with interest. “That’s granite, so it’s different rock again.”

“That’s right. We live up on the hills above Plymouth. We can see the sea from the front of the house and the moors rise up at the back. How did you know it’s granite?”

“Mrs Maynard told me in the summer. She was brought up down there and she told me you have pack horse trails, the same as here.”

They started to climb again and Copley groaned. “Oof, my legs ache already! I’m not complaining, mind.” He added as Scotty opened his mouth. “I’m just saying!”

“Try bending you knee as you take each step. It helps.” Reg advised.

They climbed again and now the path narrowed to no more than a sheep track and soon they were scrambling in single file up the last part of the hill. They cam out onto a wide limestone pavement, crisscrossed with crevices. As the last boys reached the top, the clouds lifted and a weak November sun appeared, revealing other moors all round, including some considerably higher than the one they were standing on.

The boys turned and they could see the valley laid out like a patchwork quilt of fields and woods. On the far side, a plume of smoke rose as a train passed and the School was clearly visible beneath them.

“Blimey. It looks like a model railway set!” cried one boy and they were all soon competing with one another in pointing out familiar landmarks.

John and Paul let them have their heads for a few minutes and then swung their rucksacks off their shoulders and produced lightweight rubber sheets for the boys to sit on.

“Let’s have our sandwiches here,” said John “and then you can explore. If we sit on this edge you can see the view while you eat. Unless you’re not hungry, of course!”

There was a general laugh and the boys sat down and opened their lunch boxes. There were cheese sandwiches, cut like doorsteps, a hard boiled egg and an apple in each box. Each boy carried a small bottle of the rather sweet lemonade, made from lemonade powder.

“Cook has done us proud.” Scotty exclaimed with his mouth full. “Why does food taste so much better outdoors?”

John looked at Paul and winked. “I’d like sixpence for every time I’ve heard that comment.” He said quietly.

“I’d be doing quite well if I had sixpence for every time I’ve thought it.” Paul replied.

As the last boys finished eating, John stood up and clapped his hands. “You have an hour to explore. You see those hills over there?” He pointed to the West where the higher moors were. “That’s the way the weather is coming. If you see clouds coming in, you must come straight back. We’ll be watching as well and three blasts on the whistle means you must come back at once. There’s a cairn there.” He pointed to a cairn which dominated the summit. "You must not go out of sight of that. If you do and the weather closes in, you could be lost.

The limestone is drying quickly but be careful because it will be slippery where it is still wet. Don’t run on the bare limestone, if you slip in a crack, you can hurt your ankle, or worse. I don’t fancy carrying anyone down the hill. Does everyone understand?”

There was a murmur of agreement and the boys all leapt to their feet.

“Off you go then. Leave your belongings. They’ll be safe enough here. You have one hour, unless the clouds come down again.”

He sat down again and sighed.

“Why the sigh?” asked Paul. “You nearly blew me off the hill then.”

“I was just remembering how we used to take the boys on the hills regularly. You remember, we used to have weekend camps all through the summer term. These boys haven’t had the chance of that, since the war started. We’re just not staffed up for it now. It just seems a shame that they are missing so much.”

They sat in silence for a few minutes and then Paul suggested they should take a walk themselves.

“Let’s make the most of today. It might be a good idea anyway to show ourselves, less likelihood of mischief if they think we’re on our toes!”

The inseparables walked along the eastern side of the hill, still pointing out landmarks. As they reached the end, they turned west, intending to make a circuit of the pavement and wandered along laughing and talking.

“Hey, look at this.” Copley was looking down a wide fissure. ”You can usually see the bottom of these but this goes down and down.”

“So it does.” Dixon looked round and found a small piece of rock and dropped it into the hole. It ricocheted off the sides a few times and then there was silence.

“Cor, I wonder if it goes right down into the centre of the earth.” Exclaimed Scotty in excitement.

“There are caves under some of the hills.” Added Reg. “Perhaps there are some under here.”

A shadow fell across the ground and the boys turned to see Molyneux and Cobb standing behind them.

“I expect you’d know, Entwhistle. Perhaps you live in one?” Molyneux sneered.

Reg balled his fists and would have stepped forwards but Dixon and Copley grabbed his arms. Hanson moved to the front.

“Just the sort of talk we’d expect from you, Molyneux. Like father, like son!”

“Why. you little Jew lover. My father’s worth ten of yours. At least he’s not stupid enough to spend all his money on worthless brats!”

Molyneux was so furious that his voice had risen to a shrill shriek and as he lunged forwards, Hanson took a step back, tripped, and disappeared down the hole behind him.

 

#454:  Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Mon Apr 11, 2005 6:34 pm

Aaargh!

Pat, come back and let us that cliff, quickly!

This is as wonderful as ever. Thank you.

 

#455:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Apr 11, 2005 6:35 pm

OMG a cliff, a veritable cliff on a cliff! Well done Pat! Wink Laughing

 

#456:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Apr 11, 2005 6:45 pm

*wibbles*

Somebody provide Hanson with a trampoline etc, quick.

Thanks Pat!

Liz

 

#457:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Mon Apr 11, 2005 6:56 pm

Come back and let us off quick, Pat.

I do love that you included the CS tip for climbing more easily!! I think somehow we all remember it when we're going uphill.!!

 

#458:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Mon Apr 11, 2005 7:49 pm

A cliff on a cliff!! Thanks Pat.

Although I really never found that that knee bending thing helped...!

 

#459:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! PostPosted: Mon Apr 11, 2005 9:36 pm

I knew it was a silly idea to read up to date !!!!!!!! Now I'm stuck on a cliff! Smile Hope Hanson has fallen into a nice dry soft hole and that Molyneux gets what he deserves ...horrible child!

 

#460:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Apr 11, 2005 9:42 pm

We could always throw Molyneux down the hole.

 

#461:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Mon Apr 11, 2005 10:28 pm

*sharp intake of breath*

Good one Pat.

 

#462:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Mon Apr 11, 2005 11:31 pm

Lolol!! A cliff and a half there! Well done Pat!

 

#463:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 5:04 am

Shocked Shocked Shocked
and no mention of a handy fir tree
*wibbles*

 

#464:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 9:12 am

Agghhh was reading everyone moaning about thw cliff and thought, but they'll have been an update by now, so I wont be on it !!

and you havnt posted any more Confused

 

#465:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 9:28 am

Argh! Pat! What a cliff!

Hope Hanson's ok...poke Molyneux!

 

#466:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 12:26 pm

oooo - good cliff Pat! Hope there was a handy ledge there for him to fall on.

Am curious about what's going on at Molyneux's home, I have to say.

Quote:
“Try bending you knee as you take each step. It helps.” Reg advised.

*g* - see Reg is already well prepared for his life on the Gornetz Platz! Laughing

 

#467:  Author: keren, Location: Israel PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 12:29 pm

I think his father was a blackshirt (or was it brown) like Mosely and like the Master in "The Remains of the Day"

 

#468:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 7:41 pm

There was silence for a moment and then Cobb turned and ran. Molyneux would have run as well, but Reg grabbed his arm. Dixon was looking down the fissure and gave a cry of relief.

“I can see him, he’s on a sort of ledge. Hanson, Hanson!” he yelled down the fissure. He looked up. "He’s not answering and he’s just lying there. You’ve killed him.!” He looked in horror at Molyneux.

“We’ve no time for that now.” Said Reg, letting go of Molyneux’s arm and ignoring him. ”Dixon, you’re our fastest runner, go back round the way we came and fetch the Head and Mr Cready. Don’t go over the top, you could trip. Go ON! Dixon. The Head’s got a rope and we’ll need it. That ledge could give way.”

Dixon set off at a pace he had never bettered and Reg, looked round at his shocked friends.

“I think I can reach him. It’s narrow all the way down and I can see lots of toe holds.” He wriggled out of his boots and socks and took off his coat and pullover.
“I’m just going to see if I can get to him till the Head gets here. He’ll let a rope down to us and pull us both up. It’s too narrow for the Head or Mr Cready to get down. It’ll save argument when they come. Besides if he comes round and panics, he might tip himself the rest of the way down.”

The others all stood round looking scared as Reg sat on the side of the hole and gingerly let himself down. Bracing himself with his feet on one side of the crack and his back on the other, he slowly shuffled his way down. To the waiting boys, it seemed forever till he reached Hanson.

Still supporting himself on the sides of the hole, he wriggled past the ledge on which Hanson was lying with his legs dangling over the edge till he was in a position to reach Hanson. Gingerly, he felt Hanson’s wrist and made a thumbs up sign.

There was a general sigh of relief. They knelt round the edge of the hole gazing down as if by the very power of their gaze, they could keep the boys safe.

Reg was beginning to realise just what a dangerous position he had put himself in. He didn’t dare grasp the ledge on which Hanson was lying in case it gave way and his back felt raw where it had scraped against the rock, the back of his shirt having been a casualty within the first ten feet of descent. He looked up and saw the anxious faces of his friends silhouetted against the sky and then resumed his careful watching of Hanson in case he woke and moved.

Just when his bare feet were beginning to go numb, he heard voices above and two larger heads appeared.

“We’ll let down a rope with a loop on the end, can you get that round both of you so we can get you up?” came the Head’s voice.

“I doubt it, I’d be afraid of him slipping. I can hold him once you’ve taken my weight.” Called Reg in reply. “He’s out cold. He’s only little and he doesn’t weigh much. I should be able to come up the way I came down if you support me.”

“OK. Here it comes.” The Head wasn’t happy about this but was wise enough not to argue and delay things more.

The rope came slowly down and Reg somehow got the rope over his shoulders and round his chest, just under his arms with a sigh of relief. At least he couldn’t fall to the bottom now. He pulled Hanson towards him and grasped him firmly under the arms with his legs dangling between Reg’s.

The rope tightened and Reg began the long journey up again, bracing his legs against the side and walking up the way he had walked down as the rope steadied him and took some of his weight. He gritted his teeth against the pain of the scrapes on his back and the soles of his feet. Despite his declaration that Hanson was little, he was a dead weight and Reg was just beginning to think he could not hold on any longer when he felt hands reaching down to take Hanson from him. He managed to get the last few inches to the top and felt Mr Cready’s hands under his armpits and he was out. He tried to stand up but his legs buckled.

“Sit there a minute while I rub your legs” said Mr Cready, sounding a little shaky himself. “It’s just cramp. Copley, bring his sweater and coat over, he’ll be cold.”

Reg was glad of the warmth of the extra clothes and was soon able to stand. He pulled his socks and boots on, wincing as he did so and took a few tentative steps.

“Good lad.” Said Mr Cready, approvingly. “Do you hurt anywhere apart from the scrapes.

Reg shook his head. “I don’t think so. My shoulder aches a bit. I put it out in the summer, but I can move my arm. Is Hanson all right?”

“The Head has set off down with him. We think he’s just banged his head a bit. He doesn’t seem to have broken anything and he came round after we got him out and could move everything.”

“Good. Can we go now please.”

“Yes, I expect you could do with a cup of tea, I know I could!”

Reg looked round and saw the Dixon, Copley and MacDonald waiting.

“The others are on their way down. We waited for you.” Said Dixon with a shaky grin.

“You mean you flatly refused to go.” Said Mr Cready. “Come on, Let’s go home.”

 

#469:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 7:47 pm

Phew!

 

#470:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 8:12 pm

*Be still my thumping heart!*

Excellent Pat - and good for Reg - he's a hero.

 

#471:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 8:15 pm

Beautifully written and very nerve-wracking. Thanks, Pat

Hope they all get safely back to school - no more cliffs on the way.

 

#472:  Author: Kim, Location: Tipperary, Ireland PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 9:50 pm

and not a doctor in sight. Or is this type of thing a requirement for all aspiring San doctors? I can just imagine the interview. "Tell me, doctor, have you every rescued someone in danger from a cliff, cleft, flood or whatever? You have, then the job is yours. Just the type of chap we are looking for"

 

#473:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 9:52 pm

Wow brilliant post Pat, you had my heart in my throat, and I hadn't even realised I was holding my breath until I got to the end and remembered to breath, excellent !!

 

#474:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 10:12 pm

I hope Molyneux's going to get what he deserves now! Twisted Evil

Thanks Pat!

 

#475:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! PostPosted: Tue Apr 12, 2005 11:25 pm

that reminded me so much of CS escapades!
Thanks Pat great post!

 

#476:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 12:01 am

Thank you Pat, gald that I have been catching up and was able to read the rescue so soon after the fall. Hope Reg recovers quickly and Molyneux get his comeuppance.

 

#477:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 4:59 am

Thank goodness you didn't leave us teetering on the edge any longer.

A Great Rescue in all the best CS traditions.

 

#478:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 5:32 am

Whew!
Well done, Reg. Very Happy

 

#479:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 9:28 am

Thank you Pat!
Well done Reg!

 

#480:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 2:07 pm

Thank you Pat!

Sends soothing ointment for Reg's back and feet - what a hero!

Liz

 

#481:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 5:51 pm

Kim wrote:
and not a doctor in sight. Or is this type of thing a requirement for all aspiring San doctors? I can just imagine the interview. "Tell me, doctor, have you every rescued someone in danger from a cliff, cleft, flood or whatever? You have, then the job is yours. Just the type of chap we are looking for"


Absolutely! What other requirements could there be? Wink




The journey down was slow and painful and in the end, Reg agreed to be carried on Mr Cready’s back. They arrived to find the Doctor’s car parked outside the house and Reg was carried up to the San, where, much to his annoyance, he was subjected to being undressed by Matron.

Hanson was lying in the next bed, looking pale and apparently asleep. Doctor Ward came and examined Reg’s back and feet. “They’ll need cleaning up but they’re shallow. I think you’ll be sleeping on your stomach for a few days, young man. Your feet will probably swell a bit, so better keep off them as much as possible. Do you hurt anywhere else?”

“My shoulder’s a bit stiff. I put it out in the summer, but I can move it, look.”

He waved his arm in a circle, causing Matron to duck, hastily. The Doctor examined his shoulder and suggested he should rest it for a few days.

“Please, Sir. Is Hanson going to be all right?”

“Goodness, yes. He’s got a concussion and will be in bed for a few days, but he’s not broken anything. He’s spoken to me and is making sense so he’ll be fine. He’s asleep again now and will probably wake up feeling much better.”

The Doctor left after a few instructions to Matron and she bustled over to Reg’s bed. “I’ll get you a cup of tea and an aspirin and then we’ll clean you up.” She said straightening the covers for the Doctor had sat on the bed while he talked to Reg.

She soon returned with a cup of weak and milky tea. Reg looked at it with distaste.

“Do I have to drink that?” he pleaded. “I hate milky tea.”

“You either drink it or you can have a cup of hot milk.” Matron replied “Unless I miss my guess, you’ll dislike that even more.”

Reg made a face. “But why can’t I have it strong?”

“The milk will help you sleep and that will help you heal. Come on now. I haven’t got all day.”

Realising he had met his match, Reg drank the tea and meekly swallowed an aspirin.

“Good boy. Now let’s get you cleaned up.” She returned with a bowl of water with Dettol in it and a cloth. “I’ll do your feet first, then you can lay on your stomach while I do your back.”

The Dettol stung and it was all Reg could do not to cry out. By the time Matron had finished, he was shaking and only too ready to follow instructions and lie still till supper time. He heard Matron move across the room and then sleep overcame him.

………………

John and Paul, once they had the Doctor’s assurance that the boys would both be fine, retired to John’s study.

“How on earth did Hanson come to fall down there?” Paul exclaimed as they drank a much needed cup of tea. “He’s as sure footed as they come!”

“Did it occur to you that Molyneux was standing nearby, looking scared?” said John grimly.

“Surely, he wouldn’t have …..” Paul stopped, horrified.

“I doubt it. Something happened up there, though. The other boys would have been sure to say if he had just tripped. I think we’d better find out what really happened.”

He crossed to the door and called to a passing boy to find Dixon, Copley and MacDonald and send them to the study.

“You didn’t ask for Molyneux?” queried Paul.

“No they’ll tell us more without him here. We’ll get his side of it as well afterwards but I want to hear what they say first.”

A knock came at the study door and on the call to enter, three worried looking boys appeared.

“Come right in,” John said, cheerily. “We just want a chat about this afternoon.”

The boys looked at one another and entered, still looking worried and were invited to sit down.

“Please, Sir. Is Hanson all right?” Dixon burst out. “When you sent for us we thought ….” He couldn’t finish the sentence and looked about to burst into tears.


“He’ll be fine. He has a concussion and will be in the San for a few days, but nothing is broken and he’ll be fine in a week or so.”

“And Lanky? I mean Entwhistle?” Copley was embarrassed at using Reg’s nickname but John smiled.

“I knew who you meant. He’ll be fine too, though he won’t be going on any walks for a week or two till his feet heal.”

“He was really brave and he knew what to do.” Added MacDonald. “We just sort of stood there and he sent Dixon off for you because he was the fastest runner and went down the hole.” He gulped. “I couldn’t have gone down there for anything.”

“Entwhistle has done some climbing before, I think and he’s also seen experts climb. What he did is called chimney climbing. We were lucky, he was there. Now, I need to know how this happened in the first place.”

There was silence in the room for a few seconds while the three boys looked down at their feet, obviously unwilling to speak. John thumped his hand on the table, making them all jump.

“Hanson could have died. I know he didn’t just trip or slip – that would have been the first thing you would have told me. You are not going to be ‘snitching’. What if Hanson had died? Would you still refuse to tell me what happened?”

The three boys shuffled their feet and still refused to meet his eyes.

John sat back and looked at them. “I’m waiting and I’ll wait till you decide to tell me what happened. ”

Paul looked at them. “We were only just in time, you know.”

The three looked at him in puzzlement.

“When I pulled Entwhistle out, I looked down. The ledge had gone.”

Dixon looked at his friends. They looked at him and nodded.

“We found this crack and it went down farther than we could see. I threw a bit of rock down and we never heard it hit the bottom.”

MacDonald continued the story. “I made some sort of joke about it going down to the centre of the earth”

“And then Entwhistle said their might be caves down there, and then …” Copley ran out of words and looked helplessly at his friends. “Then Molyneux came up behind us and he, he said things.”

“What things, exactly?” asked John in a conversational tone.

“Well, he’s got it in for Entwhistle and he said perhaps he lived in a cave since he knew about them.”

“And then?”

Dixon looked puzzled. “I didn’t really understand the next bit. Hanson said something about Molyneux being like his father and Molyneux got really mad and called him a Jew lover and said his father had spent all his money on …”

“Worthless brats.” MacDonald filled in. “Then Molyneux went for Hanson. He was really angry and Hanson stepped back and then he tripped and went backwards and ….”

Copley took up the tale. “He disappeared down the crack and Cobb ran away. Molyneux was going to as well but Lanky grabbed him.”

All three boys were near to tears again. John softened his tone.

“Did this have anything to do with the argument you had earlier?”

“Yes. Molyneux called Entwhistle a village orphan and Hanson faced him down. He said something about Molyneux living in the country now and Molyneux got angry and said Hanson’s family was poor and then Mr Cready called out and he stopped.”

“Has anything like this happened before?”

“He snipes at Entwhistle all the time. We know Entwhistle doesn’t have much money. He’s told us that someone called Dr Maynard is paying for him to come here cos his Aunt can’t afford it. As if we care! He’s ever so clever you know.” he added earnestly.

John had difficulty keeping his face straight.

“That’s just Molyneux.” MacDonald replied, with a shrug.. “We avoid him when we can and ignore him when we can’t.”

“It’s not just Entwhistle he goes for.” Added Dixon. “He does it to Canning as well. He calls him a cripple, and he goes for the little ones, when Miss Hulton’s not around.”

“His friends just stand there and snigger. I don’t see what they see in him. He’s so full of himself.”

There was a moment’s silence and then John, his face looking old, said carefully. “I know you don’t like snitching but if someone is as nasty as that and causing other boys to be unhappy, it’s not snitching to tell one of the staff about it. Two boys nearly died today. It could have been avoided. We let you have a lot of freedom. We try not to interfere with your squabbles but bullying is a horrid thing and we need to know when it is happening. You’d better go and think about that .”

He paused for a moment to let it sink in.

“You may not speak to this of anyone.”

The three boys left the room just about managing not to burst into tears.

 

#482:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 6:16 pm

Glad John discovered what is happening - wonder if Molyneux will be staying...


Thanks Pat Laughing

 

#483:  Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 6:59 pm

Hmm. I too wonder whether this will be the end of Molyneux's school career. I hope we get to find out about his background.

Thanks Pat, this is as brilliant as ever.

 

#484:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 8:41 pm

Thanks Pat

John certainly dealt with them faithfully.

Liz

 

#485:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 9:04 pm

patmac wrote:
and then John, his face looking old,

Yep. Molyneux is gorn! But I do hope we find out more about his family...

Pat what a super cliff - I am so glad I had to catch up and therefore read about three pages in one go so didn't have to eeble for long!!

 

#486:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 9:58 pm

I'm glad the boys did say what had happened, and the background, but fear life could be difficult for them if the other boys find out they did. We know they had to, but even we have questioned the difference between sneaking and reporting.

I felt for Reg when the bowl of dettol and water was brought out. My dad used to do that to me when I grazed my knees etc and boy did it sting!

 

#487:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 11:00 pm

Quote:
I can see him, he’s on a sort of ledge.

Excellent! Wink

Well done Reg - what a star! And well done John too. Do hope that he's not going to expel Molyneux though - or not just yet anyway. Get the feeling he has major problems at home.

Thanks Pat - wonderful as ever Very Happy

 

#488:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 11:03 pm

Carolyn wrote:
I felt for Reg when the bowl of dettol and water was brought out. My dad used to do that to me when I grazed my knees etc and boy did it sting!



Ouch yes - so can I - can remember, at the age of 8 or 9, deciding to find out what would happen if, when my bike was resting on saddle and handlebars and i'd spun the pedals so wheel was going fast - what would happen if I put finger into chain! (Yes I know -stupid eh?) Well after chain had taken top of finger off I cried all the way home - mum promptly placed finger in bowl of dettol - had to hold me there so I recall! Laughing

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Apr 13, 2005 11:11 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#489:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 11:10 pm

Wow - just caught up on the last 3 episodes, so glad I was able to read them all in 1 go, so it didn't give me a sleepless night worrying

Lesley - euggh and ow

When we'd been to the beach my dad used to insist on getting the sand off my feet by flicking at them with a towel - whenever we went to the beach I used to dread going home cos it hurt Very Happy

 

#490:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Apr 14, 2005 9:46 pm

Sorry folks, no post tonight as RL has caught up with me and I'm off to bed. I was in work at pre 7.30 a.m. and just want to crash now.

*Love the dettol memories*

 

#491:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Thu Apr 14, 2005 9:50 pm

(((((((Patmac)))))))))

Hope the accounts are finally finished

 

#492:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Fri Apr 15, 2005 4:31 am

Hope you have had a lovely lie in PatMac. You deserve it!

 

#493:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Apr 15, 2005 8:46 am

How difficult it is to get children the understand the difference between when something is just telling tales and when it is more serious and needs the help of a grown-up!

Lovely last post, Pat.

 

#494:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Apr 15, 2005 9:28 am

Thank you Pat.

 

#495:  Author: fluice,  PostPosted: Fri Apr 15, 2005 1:25 pm

I've just found and read part one of this, but can't find parts 2 and 3 to carry on. Can anyone help me please?
Lou

 

#496:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Apr 15, 2005 2:05 pm

Lou,

if you go to Kathy_S index drabbleorum which is stickied at the top of St Therese and then such under patmac there should be links to all parts of this.

Nell

 

#497:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Apr 15, 2005 2:06 pm

They're still in St Therese - down on page 3, I expect. They've not been archived yet.

Oops, jsut remember I haven't reformatted them since the board was moved! sorry.

 

#498:  Author: fluice,  PostPosted: Fri Apr 15, 2005 3:42 pm

Thank you - found them now!
Lou

 

#499:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Apr 15, 2005 10:22 pm

I have a slight problem with this section. I don't believe Sir Julian would have broken the official secrets act so I have difficulty in giving the background.

The 'Right Club' is something which only came became widely known after WWII - and appears to be forgotten by many historians. Members of the Right Club included William Joyce (Lord Haw-Haw) and Lord Redesdale (the Mitford girls' father).

I am told that writings by Archibald Ramsey, the founder, are still read by the KKK in America.

Also members were 5th Duke of Wellington , Duke of Westminster, Marquess of Graham, Lord Sempill, Earl of Galloway. Several Members of Parliament were members as well.

The leaking of documents was private correspondence between Churchill and Roosevelt which was leaked by a US cypher clerk Tyler Kent. He was arrested and charged under the Official Secrets Act, tried secretly late in 1940 and sentenced to 10 years in prison.

I've added links in a post below for anyone who wishes to know more.



John looked at Paul and his face was haggard.

“I’ve failed them.” He said, with a catch in his voice. [I] “I nearly lost two boys today and it would have been my fault.”

Paul looked at him with compassion but his voice was bracing.

“We didn’t lose them, thanks to Entwhistle. You can’t be everywhere at once.
Damn their stupid schoolboy honour! Why didn’t someone tell us?”

At that moment the sound of a car approaching the school, caused them both to look up. A tall figure emerged, almost before the car had pulled to a halt and both men hurried to the front door.

“Julian! What are you doing here?”

“Hello, John! I can’t stop long. I’m on my way to Scotland but I just had to stop by. Can you get us a sandwich organised, then we won’t have to stop again?”

The driver of the car emerged and John and Paul were surprised to see that the figure in khaki was a young woman. She saluted smartly and John made haste to invite them both in.

“Mr Cready, would you mind taking my driver, Corporal Barbour, to have a cup of tea and a sandwich. I need to speak to Mr Wheeler and we have to be on our way within the hour.”

With no further ado, he swept the whole party into the house and he and John entered the study. Sir Julian firmly closed the door.

“I’m sorry to be so peremptory, John. I really am in a hurry and what I have to tell you can’t be said over the phone. I didn’t realise Molyneux’s son was here or I would have been in contact earlier.”

John gestured to the seats by the window. “You’d better sit down and tell me. It all came to a head today anyway.” And he proceeded to outline the day’s events.

“Hanson? You don’t mean Jacob Hanson’s son?” Sir Julian exclaimed and John nodded. “If he’s anything like his father, I’m not surprised he reacted to Molyneux’s views like that!” He took a deep breath.

“I can’t tell you everything and this is strictly sub rosa but have you heard of ‘The Right Club’? ”

John nodded again, his eyes wide. “Archibald Ramsey and that nonsense about a Jewish conspiracy. I assumed it had disbanded when he was arrested.”

“Unfortunately, not. We suspect that quite a few important people are involved, but it would cause too much scandal to arrest them on suspicion. In any case, we’d be as bad as the Nazis if we did. We’ve got a partial list of members, thanks to three brave women. We keep an eye on them, though and thwart them when we can. Molyneux Senior has joined Ramsey and some others in Brixton Prison. We discovered evidence that he was up to no good and he was involved in passing secret information to the Italian Government early in the war.”

John looked even more shocked.

“So that’s at the root of it! How does Hanson’s Father come into it?”

“You’ve heard of the work that was done before the war, getting Jewish children out of Poland and other countries?”

“Yes. You remember Salomon? He was in your form. He was involved in that.”

“I remember him, though I didn’t know he was involved. Hanson’s father spent most of the family’s money on supporting that effort and other similar schemes. His mother was Jewish but married out. They practically ruined themselves in support of it. Jacob Hanson is one of the most brilliant men in the country. For the duration, he’s working for the government and just living on his salary. I know it’s been a struggle to keep young Christopher here.”

He stopped abruptly as there was a knock at the door. John called “Come in.” and Mrs Newby herself appeared with a tray with tea and sandwiches on it. She beamed broadly at the Sir Julian.

“I’ve done ham and sliced egg, just as you liked it when you were a boy. I don’t expect you get many eggs, living in the town, like you do, so I’ve packed some more for you to eat on the way. It’s Thompson’s bread, cut good and thick and Miss Barbour has it all ready for when you go. Now, don’t you worry about her. We’ll look after her till you’re ready.”

Sir Julian had risen to his feet smiling, when Mrs Newby appeared.

“It’s really kind of you, Cook.” He said, enveloping her in a hug. “Fancy you remembering.”

“Oh, I remember boys that like their food! You look like you need a bit of feeding up now. You’ve lost weight since I saw you last.”

Sir Julian laughed. “Now I know I’m back at school. When this war is all over, I shall come back for a holiday and your bread and butter pudding! You can fatten me up to your heart’s content.”

Mrs Newby left and the John poured tea while Sir Julian tucked into a sandwich. When he had finished his first, he drank his tea and continued to talk.

“I’m sorry I can’t tell you everything, John. To be honest it would be a relief to get it off my chest. I sometimes think I’m bursting with information I can’t tell anyone. Molyneux is a nasty piece of work and I don’t doubt his son has been taught to be the same. Quite frankly, I doubt if you can change him.”

“I have to try, though. You do see that, don’t you?”

“Yes, of course, but I equally don’t want to see weaker boys go down the same path - or able boys discouraged. We’ll need that generation to rebuild the country in ten years time.”

“Ten years! You don’t think this war is going to last that long do you?”

“No. I mean it will take that long to rebuild Europe into something approaching normality. So much has been destroyed and the only nation with any money left is going to be America. Make no mistake, the British Empire will be finished.”

John grimaced. “I’m not sure that will be such a bad thing. You know, I hear things I shouldn’t quite often and the old way had such injustices, I could almost become a Socialist.”

“There are a lot of us feel that way! I might have guessed you would see it. Churchill is what we need to see this war out but he won’t last beyond that.”

“We’ve a new Master this term. Ex Spitfire pilot and badly injured. He comes from the East End of London – local grammar school, Redbrick University. He admitted to me at interview that he once thought a revolution was the only way forward but had come to wonder if the same effect could be achieved by changing views at the top. I wish you had time to meet him.”

“I hope he’s right!” said Julian, grimly. ”If not, God help us. Either Europe goes Communist or becomes a satellite of America.”

He looked at his watch. ” I have to go. Sorry it’s been so short and I’m sorry to leave such a quandary on your shoulders. We have to support boys like Hanson and Entwhistle – even boys like Canning, it’s brains that will build the future, not brawn. Otherwise we just won’t have the right calibre of leader in the future. I know you feel so passionately about each boy, but this is too important to risk.”

He got to his feet and smiled.
“I’d give a lot to go back to the age when parsing Latin was all I worried about. “

The two men went out to where the car was waiting. Corporal Barbour saluted John with a smile and, closing the door after Sir Julian had climbed into the car, went to the drivers seat and expertly drove off.

John stood and watched them go until they had left the grounds and went back into his study to decide what to do next.

Last edited by patmac on Sat Apr 16, 2005 7:24 am; edited 1 time in total

 

#500:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Apr 15, 2005 10:40 pm

Slight spree for anyone who wants to know more of the background to this.

http://www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk/2WWrightclub.htm

http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/features/holocaust/kindertransport.shtml

http://www.bfi.org.uk/sightandsound/reviews/details.php?id=400

*Lest we forget*

 

#501:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sat Apr 16, 2005 9:27 am

That was breathtaking in its breadth, Pat.

And what a conundrum for the Head to sort out. Crying or Very sad

Thank you.

 

#502:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Apr 16, 2005 12:09 pm

Serious stuff, Pat, the problem spreads through the whole of society.

Marvellous, thank you.

 

#503:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Sat Apr 16, 2005 12:17 pm

Gosh, I'm impressed with all the historic background, thanks for explaining! I know loads about WW2 in Germany (the benefits of a German education, it was rammed down our throats at every occasion), but I know very little about extreme right-wing people in Britain - that was certainly an eye-opener.

And I've just realised that Molyneux is the same kind of person as Draco Malfoy: influenced by his father's nasty views, a bully, and a coward to boot! Let's hope the school can change him, I don't envy them the job!

Thanks, Pat!

 

#504:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Apr 16, 2005 3:02 pm

If his father's in prison, there may not be the money to keep him at the school. That would be a real humiliation for the little snob.

 

#505:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sat Apr 16, 2005 4:36 pm

Unfortunately, Jennie all the members of the Right Club who went to prison, somehow seemed to keep their money - friends in high places!



A knock at the door heralded the arrival of Paul and Charles.

“We’ve got progressive games organised for the Third and Lower Fourth this evening. Hugh and George are with Lower Fourth now organising the common room. We thought it would be as well if they didn’t have time to talk.

Copley, Dixon and MacDonald were coming under pressure to say what happened and are flatly refusing to say anything. Cobb has gone to bed with a headache, caused by crying his eyes out by the look of his face!

A lot of the boys are making wild guesses about what happened. They saw you come down with Hanson and then saw me carrying Entwhistle. One rumour had them both dead and when Sir Julian arrived, they thought he had come to arrest you! We’ve scotched the rumours and just told them Hanson fell down a hole and Entwhistle helped rescue him.

Molyneux has been gathered in a corner with some of his cronies, till Hugh split them up to help move tables and chairs. He’ll see they stay apart till you’ve seen Molyneux.

Oh, and I’ve checked with Matron. Both boys are fine.”

John thanked them and asked Charles to take supper in his absence. “Give me ten minutes to sort my thoughts and then send Molyneux here. I have to get that over with before I phone Hanson’s father and Doctor Maynard. Entwhistle’s aunt doesn’t have a phone and I need to consult with him about the best way to tell her. Would one of you ask Matron to have the isolation unit ready, please. If I can’t get through to Molyneux, he will be going home as soon as we can arrange an escort.”

When Molyneux entered the room, he found the Head sitting formally behind his desk and was not invited to sit down.

“First of all, I would like to hear your version of what happened on the walk this afternoon.”

Molyneux did not meet his eyes and remained silent.

“I am giving you a chance to put your side of the story. I ask you again. What happened this afternoon?” John said, pariently.

Molyneux looked up “I didn’t push him.”

“I know that but I didn’t ask what you didn’t do.”

“My father says …”

John held up his hand. “I have no interest in what your father says. I want to know what happened this afternoon from your side.”

Molyneux seemed to come to a decision. He squared his shoulders and spoke in a rush.

“I was only taking Entwhistle down a peg. He’s just a charity boy and he thinks he’s as good as anyone else. Everyone makes such a fuss of him and I can’t see why. He’s only a village boy, after all. He’ll never amount to anything.”

“And you think you will?” said John, dryly. “and where does Hanson come into this.”

“He had a go at me, so I had a go back.”

“Why did he do that?”

“Because he’s too stupid to see through Entwhistle. Anyway, his father wasted all their money on Jewish children. I’ve written to my father and asked him to take me away from here. He wouldn’t want me to be with village boys. You wait till he comes to fetch me. He’s got powerful friends and he’ll get this whole place closed down.”

John ignored the last part of this. “Do you really believe that you are better than a boy from a village or a boy who’s father helped rescue children from a dangerous situation.”

Molyneux looked defiant. “Of course. Some day we’ll get rid of all the Jews and get the right people in power. They started this war, you know.”

“Are you telling me, categorically, that you believe that the British people are somehow better than any other?”

“Yes, of course we are.”

“And that boys from a poor background cannot ‘amount to anything’?”

“My father says they should know their place.”

“I didn’t ask what your father says. Do you believe that?”

“Yes.”

John looked grim. “What about people who are handicapped? You’ve been nasty to Canning. Do you think you are better in some way than them?”

“Naturally. They weaken the race.”

John rose to his feet.

“We do not accept such views here. I have explained that to you several times, the last one being about twenty four hours ago. Entwhistle risked his life today to save another boy who was put in danger because of your actions. Hanson is probably the cleverest boy in the school despite your views on the Jewish race. You have shown yourself to be a bully and I cannot risk you infecting other boys.

You will be taken to the isolation unit in the San till we can make arrangements to have you escorted home. I will phone your mother as your father is away at present.”

“You can’t do this! My father will not allow you to.”

“I think you will find that I can. Come with me.”

With that, he escorted Molyneux out of the study and, finding Mr O’Sullivan crossing the hall, asked him to escort the boy to the Isolation Unit and arrange for his belongings to be delivered there.

In silence, Mr O’Sullivan marched the still defiant boy up the stairs and delivered him to Matron.

 

#506:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Apr 16, 2005 4:49 pm

Wow, that was telling the nasty little piece of work.

 

#507:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Sat Apr 16, 2005 6:38 pm

dackel wrote:
And I've just realised that Molyneux is the same kind of person as Draco Malfoy: influenced by his father's nasty views, a bully, and a coward to boot! Let's hope the school can change him, I don't envy them the job!


That's exactly how I see him - although I find Molyneux the more sinister of the two because his extremist views were actually shared by a considerable number people at the time and are still held by some today, whereas Malfoy is a character from a fantasy series and his beliefs have less bearing on RL.

What do you mean, Molyneux isn't real either? Wink Thanks Pat!

 

#508:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Apr 16, 2005 8:35 pm

Very, very powerful posts Pat. Don't think there is anything else John could do - sometimes all that is possible is to remove the cancer so the rest of the body remains healthy.

Thank you.

 

#509:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sat Apr 16, 2005 8:49 pm

I agree with everything said above, Pat. These ideas all seem to be re-appearing now, when once we thought they had been demolished forever.

Powerful stuff. Sad Sad

 

#510:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Apr 16, 2005 9:10 pm

Thank you Pat, that was very decisive action and the right course of action for him to take. It is a orrid situation because John must feel the school have failed to make an impression on the boy, to teach him a better view of the world, but his upbringing and loyalty to his father's views are too strong.

 

#511:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Sun Apr 17, 2005 1:29 am

Scary Molyneux -- father and son! I wasn't aware that the right had so much influence at the time -- very interesting background. And it wouldn't surprise me if their material is still used by the KKK and/or neonazis.

Poor John! He must feel so badly, but really expulsion was the only way to go.

 

#512:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Apr 17, 2005 6:28 pm

“This is a rare treat,” said Jo Maynard as she poured coffee.

She passed a cup to Jack and sank thankfully into a deep armchair, kicking off her slippers and stretching her toes towards the heat from the fire.

“Saturday evening and you’re at home for once. I can’t remember how many weeks it is since that happened.”

“It does make a change and I’ll admit I need it. In fact, I’ve a feeling I shall doze off over my book.” He admitted. “For once, everything is under control at the San and Jem is on call so I can even ignore the phone if it goes. It’s bound to be for you if it does ring so you can answer for once.”

Jo made a face. “Much as I love friends and family, an evening off would be nice. Let’s hope no one calls.”

They both picked up their books and began to read, the only sound being the crackle of the logs on the fire. Jo looked up a few minutes later and saw that Jack had indeed fallen asleep, his book sliding dangerously near to falling on the floor and his head back and mouth open. She carefully reached over and rescued the book and settled again to her reading.

Her own head was beginning to nod for the fire was warm enough to make her drowsy when the phone began to ring.

Jack was half way out of his chair on the second ring but Jo stopped him.

“You’re not on call tonight! It’s probably for me and if it is the San, I’ll put them onto Jem. I know you and you’ll end up going up there, if you answer!”

She slipped her feet into her slippers, crossed the room swiftly, and went out into the hall, pulling the door to behind her. It did not quite close and Jack could hear her side of the conversation clearly.

“No, I’m afraid Dr Maynard is not available at the moment. Sir James is on call tonight. Do you have his number?”

“Oh, I see. I’m sorry, I thought it was the San. I’m Mrs Maynard, his wife. Can I help you.”

There was silence for a moment and then Jo exclaimed “What! Is he all right?”

There was a longer silence and then she spoke again quite crisply.

“We don’t blame you. We had similar things happen in my sisters’ school.. Short of wrapping them in cotton wool, these things will happen. What about the other boy. Is he all right?”

“Well, that’s a relief. Hold on a moment while I call my husband. He’ll want to speak to you and it will save another call.”

Jack appeared at the drawing room door, his eyebrows raised.

“It’s Reg’s Headmaster. He rescued a boy from a hole on the moors this afternoon. He’s all right but a bit grazed. He wants to know if he should contact Auntie.”

Jack took the phone. “Hello, Mr Wheeler, Jack Maynard here. Tell me about it.”

There was a long pause and Jo took the opportunity to take the coffee cups to the kitchen and make a fresh pot. When she came back, Jack was just putting the receiver down.

“Come on. It’s cold out here. I’ve made fresh coffee. He is all right, isn’t he?”

“Physically, yes. Nothing a few days rest won’t cure. I’m a bit concerned though. It was caused, indirectly by a boy having a go at Reg for his origins. Another boy stepped in to support Reg and somehow fell down the fissure during the argument. Reg kept his head and went down after him till the Head and another master arrived with a rope and pulled them up.

Apparently the bully was on warning that one more incident and he would be expelled. He has a history of it and has some very fascist ideas – looks down on the ‘lower classes’, Jews and handicapped people. He sounds like he comes from one of these right wing families.” Jack made a face. “As if we haven’t got enough problems dealing with German Fascists, without being troubled with it over here. It does concern me that Reg should have to face that sort of thing, though.”

Jo looked thoughtful. “Don’t be too hard on the school, Jack. Remember the Thekla von Stift affair. That was similar. Mademoiselle kept her for two terms and tried everything she could to change her attitudes before she sent her home. And since then, we’ve had Betty Wynne Davis. They’re bound to have similar problems. What are they doing about it?”

“He’s being expelled immediately. I must say, Reg seems to have come off lightly and quite the hero. I didn’t quite understand but the Head said he somehow climbed down to where the boy was stuck on a ledge. The boy was unconscious and Reg went to make sure he didn’t move if he came round. It was lucky he did. The fissure was too narrow for a grown up to get down.”

“It’s called chimney climbing. He told me about it in the summer. He’d watched climbers go up and down a cleft in the rock and worked out how to do it. You put your back against one wall and sort of walk down. He wanted to demonstrate but since his Auntie didn’t know he went climbing, I thought he’d better not! Did you recommend the school should tell Auntie? I should think it would scare her out of her wits. On the other hand, she has the right to know. She is his legal guardian.”

“No, I told him to leave it with me. I’m calling tomorrow morning to make sure all is well and, if he’s all right, I’ll get Jem to tell her. They go up to Garnham on Monday, remember.”

“Brilliant idea! He can tell her the bare essentials and I’m sure he can do his Sir James act to reassure her. Now drink your coffee before it goes cold. There’s nothing else we can do tonight.”

Use of the word 'handicapped' is deliberate. It is the least offensive term which would have been used at the time!

 

#513:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sun Apr 17, 2005 6:45 pm

It's interesting to also see the event from Jack and Jo's side, and that they are so matter-of -fact about it, having seen incidents galore at the the Chalet School.

And as Jack says, they had enough of the Fascists while they were in Austria and they didn't expect it to follow them to England. Having to face these things will make a stronger character out of Reg - though he seems pretty strong to me already.

A very interesting chapter. Thanks, Pat

 

#514:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Apr 17, 2005 7:14 pm

Thank you for that Pat - very nice seeing it from Jack and Jo's angle -and at least they had experience in how quickly things can go pear-shaped, even at the most well-run school! Laughing

 

#515:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Apr 17, 2005 11:47 pm

Fascinating posts, Pat.

Am glad you've brought the Right Club and the British fascists into this. I did a lot of research on them and people like the Moseleys a while back for a book a friend is writing on Diana Moseley, and it's actually terrifying how much of a hold they had in certain parts of society at that time, isn't it? And how far from ithese views 'coming back' in recent times, as seems to be the common conception, it never really went away, just went underground. It's so realistic that there would have been boys like Molyneux at most public schools.

Fab to see Jo & Jack's opinion of the incident too.

I do love this drabble. Have I said that before?! Wink Laughing

 

#516:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Apr 18, 2005 11:18 am

Thank you Pat.

 

#517:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Mon Apr 18, 2005 4:54 pm

Thanks, Pat, lovely to see jack and Jo's side in all this, too.

Poor John, what a decision to have to make - but as with Thekla, it seemed the only way.

 

#518:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Apr 18, 2005 7:46 pm

A lot of the info about the Fascist Right in England comes from teaching 20th Century History in Adult Education years ago. I had to delve into the byways of situations because most of the students had lived through WWII and needed considerably more than the obvious! I found it fascinating, though horrendously scary as it went (goes?) right up to the top in some circles. No, I'm not a trained Historian, just a JOAT who is interested in lots of things and has a flypaper mind.

John duly made his phone call to Mrs Molyneux, ignoring her blustering, quickly followed by tears, and arranged that the school would escort her son to Edinburgh the next morning, where he would be met.

He then rang Jacob Hanson and explained what had happened. Mr Hanson was shocked at how nearly he had come to losing his son but thankful to hear that he was not seriously injured.

“I had hoped he wouldn’t meet this at school but it was bound to happen sooner or later. We’ve never kept things from him. He’s so bright, he puts two and two together anyway so I’d rather he got the whole picture from us. Tell him I’m proud of him because he stood up for his friend. I’d like to meet Entwhistle some day to thank him. In the meantime, I’ll write to him.

Don’t blame yourself. There are a lot of people like Molyneux around, as I know only too well. There was no way you could get through to his son after what he has been taught at home.

Please call in the morning to let us know how things are going – and, of course, phone any time if there is a change. If he is recovering well, we won’t come up to see him at once. It would be rather difficult for me to get away at present and might make him think he is worse than he is, but we would come at once if we are needed of course.

I’m reasonably sure my wife will want to come up during the week to reassure herself he is well. We’ll let you know.”

John put the phone down with a sense of relief. Every one who had to know had now been called.

……………………………

Eventually, the boys were all in bed and, after checking with Matron yet again, John made his way to the Staff Room.

The room was very quiet when he entered. All the staff were tired and shocked by the events of the day and most were just sitting back and thinking privately. They all sat up and looked expectantly at John. Paul hastened to fetch a tray which was waiting on the side with a plate of sandwiches on it and Hugh brought him a cup of coffee.

John thanked them and sipped the coffee appreciatively but he pushed the plate of sandwiches away.

“I’m not hungry, I’m afraid.”

Charles looked at him sternly. “You have to eat something.” He chided. “You had no tea and no supper. We can’t afford to have you ill. Come on, eat at least a little.”

John saw the sense of this and took one of the sandwiches and ate it, despite the heavy feeling it left in his stomach.

“I’ll eat the rest later. Don’t tell Matron but I’ll eat them in bed when we’ve finished here.”

His comment produced a quiet chuckle and lightened the mood. He proceeded to tell them about his interview with Molyneux and the outcome. Skating carefully round the confidential parts of his conversation with Sir Julian, he explained what he had learned of Molyneux’s background.

There were murmurs of shock and disgust as he told them and then a moment’s silence.

“I heard quite a bit about that sort of attitude just before the war began, including the idea that we should be uniting with Germany to fight against the Soviet Union, not the other way around. There were a lot of big names involved. Once the war started, I suppose they just went underground.” Hugh commented, thoughtfully.

“Bullying for whatever reason is disgusting. What will you tell the boys?” queried Arthur.

“I have to think about that. They have to be told Molyneux has been expelled for bullying but I don’t think any of his victims will thank me for publicising the details. What I do need to do is to persuade them to stamp on it themselves when they see it.”

“What about Molyneux’s group of followers? They may have picked up some of his attitudes. Will you talk to them?”

“Yes. None of them are natural leaders and I should think they will be fairly devastated about the whole thing. The other thing I need to be sure of is that they are not victimised by boys who are disgusted at Molyneux. Oh, and I’m going to need a volunteer to escort Molyneux to Edinburgh tomorrow. I want him out of here as soon as possible. We can’t start to rebuild till he’s gone and it’s not fair to him to be sitting in isolation for too long. After all, he’s been indoctrinated at home. He might have been different if he’d had a different upbringing.”

It was decided that Charles and Hugh would go together with Molyneux. The idea of the long journey with Molyneux promised to be unpleasant and more bearable with company.

“Let’s get off to bed.” Arthur stood up and stretched. “Tomorrow promises to be another hectic day.”

 

#519:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Mon Apr 18, 2005 7:56 pm

I guess the whole thing leaves everyone with a nasty taste in their mouth.

And like the Chalet School they appreciate how much one's upbringing influences who and what we are.

Smile Smile Thank you, Pat

 

#520: A Village Boy Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Mon Apr 18, 2005 7:56 pm

Thanks for this Patmac - that's twice in a row that I've logged on and found that you have just posted the latest instalment.

The details about the Fascist Right bear repeating, unfortunately, given today's climate in far too many countries.

Also very revealing to see how the school dealt with the bullying aspect, especially given the time at which the story is set.

Looking forward to the next.....!

 

#521:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Apr 18, 2005 8:32 pm

Wonderful, Pat, thanks.

 

#522:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Apr 19, 2005 9:26 am

Thanks Pat.

Don't envy Hugh and Charles having to make that trip with Molyneux - wonder if his mother's as bad as his father? Confused

 

#523:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Tue Apr 19, 2005 9:29 am

Thank you pat!

 

#524:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Apr 19, 2005 8:45 pm

The next morning, Jack rang the school and heard that Reg, apart from being sore, was much better and had tucked into his breakfast with great gusto. Unfortunately, the same could not be said for Hanson, who was running a fever and had been sick. Although the local doctor had seemed to expect it, John Wheeler was worried. He related the results of his phone call to Hanson’s parents the night before.

“He’s obviously a bit shaken by how nearly his son came to losing his life, but resigned to people like Molyneux making trouble, which is more than I am.” John had said. “I’m dreading ringing him this morning to say his son has a fever.”

“Believe me, we fully echo your views. My wife and I had to flee from Austria after one of her school friends tried to save a Jewish man from a mob. It was not a pleasant experience. We had to move the School and the Sanatorium out as well. You’ll find no fascist sympathisers here!” Jack promised him with feeling.

“I’ll call again this evening, to see how young Hanson is. There often is some sickness and fever after a concussion but if you need a second opinion, I’m sure I’ll be able to recommend one.”

Jem had been more than willing to take on the task of telling Auntie.

“It’s the least we can do. I’ll be right on the spot. Let me talk to Madge and I’ll be right back.”

He phoned back fifteen minutes later with the offer to call at the school on his way to Garnham.

“It’s not that far out of our way. If we leave earlier, we can stop off there and still get to Garnham before dark. Madge hasn’t met Reg yet, you remember, and she’s keen to. Young Sybil thinks he’s the bees knees. She’s certainly come out of herself since the summer and Jo seems to think Reg played a part in that. Besides which if I tell Mrs Thirtle that I’ve seen him, she’s less likely to fret.

Will you call the school and ask if it’s all right to visit about two o’clock. It could be half an hour either way. If Hanson is still not recovering, I could take a look at him, if the Head agrees.”

Jack called back an hour later.

“Mr Wheeler will be delighted if you could call in. He’s positive Reg is recovering nicely but, reading between the lines, he’s concerned about young Hanson. Both the local doctor and the matron are sure he will be fine but a second opinion will be most welcome.”

Jo saw Simone, Frieda and Marie at Mass and passed on the news as they gathered afterwards for a chat. They were shocked that Reg should have been in danger and even more shocked at the tale she related about Molyneux.

“But that is terrible.” Cried Simone, dropping into her native language at the shock. “Is nowhere safe from this evil!”

Jo ignored her as she saw Frieda go white and sway alarmingly.

“Frieda, liebling, don’t look like that! It can’t happen here. These are just a few people. Most English people don’t feel like that. You know they don’t!”

“I do know, Jo, but I can’t forget what Bruno suffered in the concentration camp. I just couldn’t bear for it to happen again. It makes me worry for him and also for Gerard and Louis.”

“It won’t, Frieda, It can’t. Too many people in this country are opposed to it.”

“That is what our Austrian friends said before the Anschluss.” Said Frieda faintly, leaning against Marie.

Jo looked round for Jack who was engaged in conversation with a group of staff from the San. He happened to look across at the friends and, catching Jo’s agonised glance, he made his excuses and strode across to where the four friends were standing, Marie with her arms round Frieda, who looked ready to faint. Jo explained what was upsetting her and Jack quickly took charge. “Get her over to the gate. I’ll go and fetch the car. The sooner she is home the better.”

He hurried away and Jo, Marie and Simone somehow got Frieda to the gate. Jack pulled up and urged them to get her in. ”Simone, you come with me. Jo, can you manage Louis, Tessa and Gerard?” Jo nodded silently, biting back her tears, and Jack leapt back into the car and drove off, leaving Jo with the task of conveying seven children home.

“We’ll come with you, Jo. Wolferl, hold Len and Cons’ hands. We don’t want them to run into the road. Margot, come here and help me push Gerard’s pram. Jo, put Stephen in with Gerard so you can look after Tessa. Louis, come help push the pram. Mutter is a little faint and Onkel jack is taking her home. Come now, help us walk to Tante Joey’s house.”

Jo was so shocked by Frieda’s reaction to her news that she did not argue with Marie’s offer and they set off to walk home.

By the time they arrived home, Jo had recovered and, aided by Anna and Rösli, they fed the nine little ones then settled the younger ones for a nap and sent Wolferl and Josefa to play quietly in the day nursery. Jo and Marie, gathered in the kitchen with Anna and Rösli for a rather belated lunch and explained to them what had happened.

Rösli was inclined to be upset by the thought of fascists in England but Anna took it in her stride.

“There are wicked people everywhere. The Nazis are being beaten. Once this war is over, they will have no power. Come, Rösli, we are safe here. All these wicked people can do is talk. Go and sit with Wolferl and Josefa while I make coffee for everyone. I will bring our coffee and join you. We can wash up later when there is time.”

She shooed Jo and Marie off to the drawing room and presently appeared with a tray of coffee.

“Now do not worry. We will take care of the little ones. Frau von Ahlen will be well with Doctor Maynard to care for her.”

She departed to the murmured thanks of the friends and bustled off to join Rösli.

Jo gave a shaky laugh as she poured the coffee. “Thank God for Anna! She’s a tower of strength. Nothing seems to quench her spirit. She doesn’t know how most of her family are faring under the Nazis and yet she still seems to have more faith in divine providence than any of us. I was really scared when Frieda went white like that. I thought she was going to faint.”

“I think this is just a delayed reaction for Frieda to the strain of the past few years and when Bruno was in the concentration camp before they all escaped. She was so strong then and Gerard is not yet a year old.” Marie sighed. “I wonder if things will ever be the same again.”

“I don’t think they will.” Jo replied, sombrely. “We will come into a new world with new challenges when this war is over.”

 

#525:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Apr 19, 2005 10:52 pm

Oh poor Frieda! Crying or Very sad

Quote:
“We will come into a new world with new challenges when this war is over.”


Never was a truer word spoken

thanks Pat.

 

#526:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Wed Apr 20, 2005 4:32 am

Lovely to see Anna make an appearance. And what a tower of strength she is too.

Thanks for all the thoughtful updates.

 

#527:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Wed Apr 20, 2005 12:39 pm

Thank you Pat.

 

#528:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Wed Apr 20, 2005 1:10 pm

[quote]She doesn’t know how most of her family are faring under the Nazis and yet she still seems to have more faith in divine providence than any of us.

How many people there were during the war who found the only thing to cling to was divine providence - and how that still holds true today.

A very moving post, Pat

 

#529:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Wed Apr 20, 2005 3:49 pm

Thank you for that, Pat.

How very true that the world had changed almost beyond recognition. People would never have as much trust in the goodness of humanity again. Look at the philosophers and theologians before the Wars, and then look at what they wrote about the nature of humanity afterwards. Quite an eye-opener.

Anna reminds me of Susan in the "Anne" books. She's the same sort of person - always there for her 'mistress' and always absolutely reliable.

 

#530:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Apr 20, 2005 9:42 pm

In the event, Jack decreed that Frieda should stay in bed for a couple of days and Debbie moved in to look after her. The children were to stay with the Maynards till she was fully recovered.

“She’s rather run down and I’m going to make her up a tonic.” He said when he and Simone arrived back a couple of hours later with two large bags of clothes for the children. “We’ll keep the children here and she can have complete quiet.”

Simone and Marie departed with their children and things settled back to normal for the rest of the day.

When Jack rang the school, he heard from a relieved John Wheeler that Hanson’s fever had subsided and there had been no more sickness. Reg was fine and Matron thought he would be able to walk in slippers by the next day.


…………………


Hugh and Charles arrived back late from their journey to Scotland, having been held up on the way back by delays on the line. They reported that Molyneux had said little on the way up and his mother had been waiting with a chauffeur to take him the rest of the way home. They had handed her the official expulsion letter and departed as quickly as they could as they were catching the same train back.

“We were polite but that was as far as it went.”

They had missed John’s talk to the school, which he gave after morning prayers.

“Looking round, I think most of the boys were shocked at the very idea of bullying. Certainly, we should have no more of it with this group of boys. John was most comprehensive. He was saying he will include it in his talks to new boys in the future.” Paul told them.

“Molyneux’s cronies came out of the study with their tails well and truly between their legs.” Added Arthur. “I should think they’ll sing very sotto voice for the rest of term.”

…………………

The next morning saw Madge and Jem on the road before first light with Ailene safely stowed in her Moses Basket on the back seat and wedged in, not only with the their suitcases packed for the week, but also with items which Jo and her friends had found lacking during the summer. The boot was packed tight and Jem was heard to comment that they had enough luggage to last a month as he attempted to stow some saucepans in a corner.

“It’s good to be off on our own. It seems so long since we did anything like this. Come to think of it, we’ve never done it in England.” Said Madge, relaxing for what seemed like the first time in years.

“We’ve only lived here a few years.” Jem responded. “When this is all over we’ll travel the country. I’d like to see Devon again and to show you my old haunts.”

“It can’t come soon enough for me! It seems to have gone on forever.”

There was silence for a while and when Jem glanced across at Madge he saw she was dozing. He concentrated on his driving and, they passed through the quiet streets of Worcester in the dark. Once out of the town he was able to make better speed as dawn broke and they made good time as they climbed the hills into the Peak District to cross the Pennines.

Madge woke as Ailene stirred. Jem pulled in to a hotel in Leek for coffee and to give Madge a chance to tend to Ailene, then they were on the road again, passing through Buxton and Glossop as they headed for Leeds.

Twelve o’clock saw them pulling in to a hotel on the A1 where Jem had booked lunch and an hour later they were on their way again, following the Great North Road till they came to the turning leading across the moors to Polgarth.

They pulled up in front of Chaucer House and, they crossed to the front door which stood wide open. A tall rangy man appeared from a door to the side.

“Hello, Sir James. I’m John Wheeler, the Head of the Junior School. Do come in.”

 

#531:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Wed Apr 20, 2005 9:49 pm

Thank you for a bit of several strands here, Pat, and lovely to see Jem and Madge just as a young, happy couple. Smile

Keep up the good work!

 

#532:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Apr 20, 2005 10:10 pm

Lovely Pat - also like all the strands - especially the one about Frieda - it's easy to forget that she had just as bad a time as Joey and the others.

 

#533:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Apr 20, 2005 10:44 pm

Lovely Pat, thanks. Very Happy

Not surprising that Frieda's finally broken down - it all had to come out sometime, the poor thing.

Looking forward to Madge and Reg meeting.

 

#534:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Thu Apr 21, 2005 8:23 am

Wow-how-how-how-how!

Caught up on pages and pages - you do such lovely long posts Patmac! - and am mightily pleased I got so much at once! Thank you!

 

#535:  Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Thu Apr 21, 2005 6:13 pm

Thank you, Pat. I am awed by the depth & breadth of this drabble.

 

#536:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Apr 21, 2005 7:53 pm

John had been watching for the visitors to arrive as he sat by the window, marking. As soon as the big car swung into the drive, he went to put the pile of marking on his desk. As he turned back to the window, he saw a tall fair man, younger than he expected, emerge and go round to the passenger side to open the door and help a younger woman emerge with a baby in her arms. Her hair was dark and curly and as she looked up at the building, she turned to her husband, he heard a merry laugh, which was echoed by her husband.

John arrived at his study door just as they entered the hall and greeted them.

Jem introduced Madge and they all went into John’s study where John led them to the comfortable chairs by the window.

“I’m sorry you had to come out of your way. I assume Dr Maynard has told you the whole story?”

“He has indeed.” Jem replied. “You must have had a terrible weekend.”

“If Entwhistle hadn’t been quick thinking, it would have been worse. I wouldn’t have let him go down there, if I’d seen it happen and it was too narrow a cleft for a grown man. Do you know he told the boys with him that he would go down straight away to save argument!”

Jem laughed. “That sounds like Reg. We only met him in the summer. My wife’s sister and her friends were staying in Garnham and got to know him through a young woman who lived opposite. He’s a funny mix. Sometimes he sounds so mature but he’s been sheltered in other ways. Is he doing well?”

“I’d like six more like him! He’s settled in well and made friends. He works hard but he plays hard as well. This business with Molyneux was most distressing, though Entwhistle seems to have coped with it quite well. The fact is, he shouldn’t have had to! I’ve had Molyneux up for bullying before but I just don’t seem to have got through.”

“I don’t know if you know, but I ran a girls’ school before my marriage.” Madge said, with some sympathy. “I don’t teach now, of course, but my sister and I are still close to it and involved. We had to expel a girl for very similar views when we were in Austria She refused to speak to one of the other pupils because her father was ‘in trade’ if you would believe such nonsense. Our Head at the time tried everything for a long while before it came to a crisis. It’s never an easy decision to take.”

“We’ve had our share of dealings with the Nazis as well.” Added Jem. “We’ve had to move twice, once from Austria and once from the Channel Islands. In my job, I get to hear things and I know there are Nazi sympathisers over here, too. You can hardly give every potential parent a quizzing on their political sympathies!”

John gave a short laugh. “I suppose not. The nub of the matter is that we are incredibly short staffed. One of our old staff who had been retired nearly ten years came back at the start of the war and died of a heart attack earlier this term. We’re doing the best we can but ….”

“We’re the same,” replied Jem, ruefully. “We all just do the best we can but it catches up with us in the end. That’s why we’re snatching a few days now.”

“Which reminds me, I mustn’t hold you up too long. I’ll fetch him along to you and give you a little while on your own. Hanson seems to be doing well. Our local Doctor came out this morning and thinks he can get up for a little while tomorrow. He did say if you had time to look at him, he’d be happy for that. I’d certainly like to tell his father that we have had a second opinion.”

“I’d be glad to. Just give us fifteen minutes with Reg and then fetch me to see Hanson. That will give my wife some time with him as they haven’t met before, thanks to this young lady.” He gestured to Ailene who was sleeping contentedly on Madge’s lap.”

“I’m sure you’d be glad of a cup of tea, so I’ll organise that as well.” With that, John left the room and reappeared with Reg, who shuffled along in his slippers, looking a little apprehensive. Jem strode across and met him just inside the door.

“Don’t look so scared! We’ve not come to scold you. We’re on our way to Garnham for our holiday and I need to tell your Auntie that we’ve seen you and you are no worse for your adventure.” He led Reg across to the seating area, with a hand on his shoulder.

“I’m sorry, I can’t get up, Reg. I don’t want to disturb Ailene. Come and sit beside me.” Madge smiled gently at him and indicated the chair next to her.

Reg went scarlet but he sat down and attempted a smile. “It’s nice to meet you, Lady Russell.” He said a little shyly.

Madge laughed. “I still look round to see who this ‘Lady Russell’ is when anyone calls me that. I’m so glad to meet you Reg. I missed out on the summer holiday and, as you can see, I’ve been rather busy since.”

Madge had lost none of the charm which had won her support from many people when she had started the Chalet School with three pupils years before. Reg was immediately won over and smiled back more wholeheartedly.

“Suppose you tell us what happened on Saturday.” Jem asked. “We’ve heard the bare essentials but I’d like to hear it from you.”

Reg went scarlet again. “You’ve heard about Molyneux? He was always trying to get my goat but I wouldn’t let him.” He spoke looking down at his feet, unconsciously twisting his hands together in his distress. “I knew there might be people who would look down on me and I’d thought about it a bit before I came. I decided I wouldn’t hide where I come from. I’ve made some really good friends and they don’t care. Miss Phoebe said that lots of clever men didn’t have any education, like George Stevenson and lots of other people and I remembered that.”

He straightened his shoulders and looked up.

“Hanson was standing up for me and he didn’t have to. None of the others knew what to do or I expect they would have done what I did. I could see that the hole was too narrow for Mr Wheeler or Mr Cready to go down, and I knew they’d say it was too dangerous for me. So I climbed down so they couldn’t argue when they came. I couldn’t just leave him there.”

Madge reached out and laid her hand on Reg’s, stilling his hands and her voice was comforting.

“That is what real friendship means, Reg. He helped you and you helped him. Neither of you thought of the consequences. You just did what you thought was right.”

Reg looked at her. “I should have stood up for myself earlier, then it wouldn’t have happened.”

“Nonsense.” Said Jem, bracingly. “He was bullying other boys as well. Even if you had confronted him earlier, he would have gone after other boys and sooner or later something similar would have happened.”

He changed the subject, seeing that Reg would not welcome more discussion of the incident.

“Are you enjoying school?”

“Yes. It’s easy to learn when everyone else is working. I’ve made some really good friends and we have a lot of fun out of school. Mr Evans, that’s my form master, says I’m doing well. I’m half way up the form now and I was at the bottom when I started. I sometimes miss home and I worry a bit about Auntie being on her own but she writes every week and she was fine at Half Term.”

“We’ll be seeing her this week,” Madge said encouragingly “and it’s only two weeks to Phoebe’s wedding. You’ll see her for a couple of days then.”

“I don’t mean I want to go back.” Reg said anxiously. “I really do want to stay and I’m getting used to it. It’s just sometimes …..” his voice trailed off.

“You wish you were free to wander and do things in your own time?”

Reg looked at him in puzzlement. “How did you know?”

Jem smiled. “I’m sorry. That’s part of growing up. We all feel like that.”

John came back at that moment and Jem left to examine Hanson while Madge made the most of her opportunity to get to know this boy who had helped her daughter through a difficult period in her life.

 

#537:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Apr 21, 2005 8:23 pm

That's a lovely post Pat, so nice to see Jem and Madge in such a supporting role.

Thank you.

 

#538:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Apr 22, 2005 9:31 am

Lovely, thank you Pat. Madge and Jem are great here.

 

#539:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Apr 22, 2005 10:31 am

Oh I do like your Jem and Madge!

Thanks Pat. Kiss

 

#540:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Fri Apr 22, 2005 12:28 pm

Thanks, Pat, lovely as usual!

I agree with all the above that's it's nice to see Madge and Jem as a happy couple here.

 

#541:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Apr 22, 2005 7:52 pm

Jem and John came back after a short interval and the Russells rose to leave. Jem ruffled Reg’s hair and slipped a coin into his hand. “We’ll see you in two weeks.” He said with a grin and, once Aline ne was settled in her basket again, they drove off. As they turned to go back indoors after waving to the Russells as they drove away, Reg looked at the coin.

“Half a Crown!” he exclaimed excitedly. “Isn’t he ripping!” He stowed the precious coin in his pocket and turned to the Head.

“Can I get my maths books and do some now. I can’t see why I can’t. It’s my feet and back that are sore, not my head!”

“We’ll see what Matron says tomorrow. She said no work today and even I wouldn’t argue with her!”

Reg went off to read Picts and Martyrs till his friends had finished lessons and John returned to his marking, wondering about Reg’s friends. They all seemed so down to earth despite their many adventures. He felt he would like to know more about them.


…..


Jem and Madge set out across the moors to Garnham. As the crow flies, it was not far but the road twisted and turned and they went over bleak, windswept moors before being swept down by the twisting road to lush valleys with fast flowing rivers and then, up, up, up they climbed, only to plunge down again.

Eventually they were running through Garnley and on the last lap of the journey. As they entered Garnham, Jem slowed and pointed out places he knew from his visit in the summer.

“That’s Mrs Thirtle’s cottage.” He said, pointing to a small but trim cottage, standing slightly apart from the others. “The Church is over there. It’s very old, there are Norman pillars I gather and a story of an even earlier church on the site. I didn’t go in, in case I ran in to the Sodger.”

“The what!”

“It’s what the village people call the Vicar’s wife. Didn’t Jo tell you about her encounter with the woman?”

“That’s one tale, I’ve not heard!”

“Oh, she managed to put Jo’s back up with stupid comments about Sybil’s looks. She retreated rather fast when she heard the rest of the party were Catholics. Then she tried to warn Mrs Thirtle about the dangers of Reg associating with ‘Papists’. I gather the good lady retired defeated and the whole incident was witnessed by some of the locals. Jo reckons it did their standing a great deal of good in the village.”

Madge laughed wholeheartedly. “I wish I had been a fly on the wall!”

Jem changed down to a low gear to negotiate Tedders Bank and soon they pulled into The Witchens.

There was till just enough light to see the sturdy stone building, standing four square to the elements and Madge turned to see a pale moon shining over the sleeping village below.

“Jem!” she said, reaching for his hand. “This is truly a place apart. I’m glad we came.”

Jem put his arm round her shoulder and they looked out onto the valley. An owl flitted across the garden, looking ghostly in the moonlight. Madge shivered, and nestled closer to Jem.

“The war seems so far away, it seems unreal.”

They stood for a moment and then a stirring from the car as Ailene awoke, recalled them to the present moment.

Madge lifted Aline from her basket and held her close.

“Look, Aline. This is Reg’s home.”

Last edited by patmac on Wed Apr 27, 2005 7:44 am; edited 1 time in total

 

#542:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Apr 22, 2005 8:00 pm

Ahhh, lovely, great that Madge didn't know about the 'Sodger'!!!!

Thanks Pat.

 

#543:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Apr 22, 2005 8:03 pm

This is such a lovely drabble... one of my favourites! Thanks

 

#544:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Apr 22, 2005 10:05 pm

Are Jem and Madge going to meet the Sodger as well?

Love this Pat, hope they can make auntie proud of Reg without worrying her.

 

#545:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Apr 22, 2005 10:43 pm

Oh I do hope that Madge is going to meet 'The Sodger!' She'd be equally as cutting as Joey was, but in her polite Lady Russell way!

I really like Madge and Jem in this. It's so lovely to see them as a proper loving couple Very Happy

thanks Pat Kiss

 

#546:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 5:17 am

What Josie said about Madge and Jem.

Thank you Patmac!!!

 

#547:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 6:08 am

Thanks again, Pat. I do like Madge and Jem here! Also the way John refers to them as 'Reg's friends.'

And Reg's reading material. Very Happy I think that one's my favorite, after Winter Holiday.

 

#548:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 12:05 pm

Great, Pat, thanks. Wibbling about how Auntie will take the news about Reg, but I bet she's proud of him for standing up for himself and his friends.

 

#549:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 12:28 pm

Just caught up on about a week's worth of this.

Thanks Pat - it's all so excellently brilliant I can't pick out a favourite bit.

*sends hugs for Frieda*

Liz

 

#550:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 4:35 pm

The next morning after breakfast, Jem set off to visit Mrs Thirtle, while Madge finished the unpacking and settled the new belongings into The Witchens. It was a bright, crisp morning, with a hint of winter in the air and he whistled as he strode along.

He knocked at the front door and, after a moment, Auntie came to the door and invited him in.

“I didn’t expect you so early.” She said anxiously. “Is everything all right?”

“Everything’s fine. Reg had a little adventure on Saturday and we called in at the school yesterday on the way here to check on him. Don’t worry, he’s only got a few scrapes and he’s perfectly well.”

Auntie’s face paled.

“You’d better sit down and tell me. It can’t have been a ‘little’ thing if you went to see him.”

Jem told her everything he knew while she kept her gaze on him, her face blank and sitting bolt upright in her chair.

When he finished, there was silence, except for an occasional creak of the beams in the old cottage. Jem waited, patiently, for her response. He could see, despite her firmly controlled features, that she was thinking and weighing his words carefully in almost a detached way.

He guessed that this was her defence against adversity and he wondered where she had learned it. Something in her past must have come near to destroying her and she had only coped by distancing herself from the situation, as he guessed she was doing now.

Tentatively, he said “If you want to see him, I could take you to the school. I’d need to go and fetch the car but it wouldn’t take me long.”

Her eyes at last focused on him.

“No.” she said, sadly. “It would only embarrass him to have me there. I can’t go to the school. You say he did it for a friend?”

“Yes.”

“Then I’ll just be glad it was no worse and that he has found a good friend in his new life.”

He searched for the right words to reassure her and he suddenly remembered a scene from his own childhood.

Looking round, he said conversationally, “This is very like my Gran’s cottage. I used to go there for holidays sometimes when I was a boy.”

He leant back in the chair and reminisced, trusting his instincts.

“Gran just accepted me. I ran wild, played in the woods at the end of her garden, went fishing for tiddlers in the brook, She mended my torn clothes and washed my grazes and scratches. I slept in a little attic and could see the stars at night. I went back every year for a holiday even when I was at college. I must have bored her to tears with my tales of school and college, but she just sat and knitted and listened.

In my final year of training, I overworked and became run down. I had a cold that I just couldn’t shake off and was told to take two weeks away. I didn’t feel I could go home because it would have worried my mother and my father probably wouldn’t have understood. He was very ambitious for me. I’d not have had the peace I got with Gran. I just turned up on her doorstep. She didn’t ask any questions. She just fed me up and let me rest. I suppose I was selfish because I didn’t worry one jot about Gran being upset. I never thought of that at the time, she never showed it. I was pretty self centred then, I think. Most young people are.”

There was a pause.

“Was she your father’s mother?”

“No, my mother was her daughter. My father was what they call a self made man and he and my mother moved up in the world. They moved to London but Gran wouldn’t go with them, though I know she was asked. She hated big towns. She said she couldn’t breathe with so many people around.”

“Ah, I know what she meant.”

“I thought you might.”

“Is she still alive?”

“No. She’d be ninety three now. She came to my graduation. She was the only person I really wanted there. My parents came of course but that was taken for granted. I’m not criticising my parents! They did the best for all of us that they could and I was fond of them but, somehow, I never got close to my father. I think I wasn’t very promising material till I discovered I wanted to be a Doctor. Then I buckled down and worked, but I think my father thought it would be a passing phase. Fortunately it wasn’t!

She lived long enough to see me qualify as a Surgeon. I’m glad of that. I probably wouldn’t have got there without her.”

Auntie stirred. “I’ll make a cup of tea, if you’ve time.”

Doctors, like Vicars, know it is part of their job to accept a cup of tea and Jem thanked her.

As she bustled round, he saw that the blank look had gone from her face and was relieved. They did not speak again till both had a cup of tea. Jem noticed that the cups and saucers were fine bone china and wondered if there was a story behind the tea service displayed on the dresser. He guessed they were not for everyday use. He drew his attention back to Auntie (as he was thinking of her now) as she began to speak.

“I’ve learned a lot of new things this year. I don’t mind telling you I was against Reg going to a posh school. I’ve never held with people going above their station in life. I worried that he would get jumped up and think himself too good for his old Auntie and a little village. I was afraid he wouldn’t want me to go to the school. It seems I didn’t have the right of it. I can’t share his new life or help him with his learning or how to deal with the bigger world, but I can give him a rest from the harder things. I saw that at half term. He had dark shadows under his eyes and he was thinner. I know he had grown, but I was worried he was working too hard. He seemed glad to be back and I wondered if he was regretting going. He said not but I did wonder. He went back looking better but I have fretted about it.

What you’ve told me about your Gran makes me realise that I have got a job to do for him and I’m glad.”

“It’s true, Reg will get tired and sometimes it will all seem a bit much. That won’t get any easier as he moves up through the school and especially when he goes to college. He’s a proud and determined lad and won’t want to be behind anyone. He’s half way up his form already and I’ll bet he’ll get to the top within a couple of years, if not sooner. We’ll all support him out in the bigger world but you give him a place he can just be himself and he’ll need that from time to time.”

Auntie nodded. “I see that now.”

“Would you like me to take you to the school to see him? I’m quite sure he would be happy about it.”

“No, I don’t think so. I don’t want to seem to fuss. You’ve been straight with me and you’ve seen him. I’ll trust your word, you’re a Doctor.”

Jem finished his tea and rose to leave. They arranged that the Russell family should come to tea on the Wednesday and as he went out of the door, down to earth Sir James Russell was, for the first and only time in his life touched with a little prescience.

“I shouldn’t wonder if he will come back here to live some day, probably when you and I are long gone. It won’t be till his life’s work is done but he will want to rest here, home in the hills.”

*thank you Ray for the inspiration for the last paragraph*

It refers to Ray's short drabble 'Home in the Hills'

 

#551:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 4:58 pm

Pat, I have tears in my eyes, that was such a lovely interlude. And I absolutely love Jem, for managing to make Auntie feel that what she had to offer was so important, so necessary.

Thank you.

 

#552: A VIllage Boy Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 6:01 pm

Pat - Lesley isn't the only one with tears in her eyes at the end of this post. Jem has definitely done a great job with 'Aunty' there, assuring her that whatever ensues, she will always have a place in Reg's life.

And l loved that last para too.

Waiting eagerly for more.

 

#553:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 9:24 pm

That was a really beautiful post Pat! And you have made Jem very human and real, too!

 

#554:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Apr 23, 2005 10:18 pm

That was lovely Pat. Jem seems so understanding, with a real flair for seeing what was needed and providing it.

The last bit brought a tear to my eye. Beautiful, and what a lovely hope to give Auntie.

 

#555:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Apr 24, 2005 12:24 am

That was lovely Pat - I love that Jem started to call her (at least in his mind) Auntie. And that he could share his experience so naturally with her.

Liz

 

#556:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Sun Apr 24, 2005 2:17 am

*echoes everyone else*
a lovely, sensitive post....

 

#557:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Apr 24, 2005 3:43 pm

Jem walked back up the hill and arrived back at The Witchens in time for lunch. Madge had enjoyed the morning on her own, pottering round the house while Ailene slept.

“I’m sorry I’ve been so long, honey.” He said as he entered the kitchen and landed a quick kiss on her cheek

“That’s all right. I’ve had such a peaceful morning. It’s not that I mind having Dick’s children as well as our own but, what with all the alarms and excursions of the past few years, I don’t know when I last had a whole morning just to myself, knowing no one would interrupt. I’ve usually got Josette with me all the time, poor babe.”

“I really think it will do Josette good to be away from you for a few days, she’s become much too clingy and she plays on your sympathy, you know. It will certainly do you good.” Said Jem calmly, reaching for a sandwich.

“I know you are right but I can’t help worrying about her.”

“The time for worry is over, dear. We’re quite sure she will be fine with time and she’ll have to go back to school eventually.”

“I know, I know! Then I shall start complaining about having a quiet house!” Madge laughed. “Don’t I sound right whinger.”

“Not really, it hasn’t been easy for the past five years and you really weren’t well in the summer. Come on, have a sandwich to fatten you up and I’ll tell you all about Auntie.”

“Yes do. Hang on while I pour tea and then I’ll be all ears.”

Jem told her the whole tale and Madge was sombre when he finished.

“That is just so sad. He’s all she’s got and she can see him moving away from her.”

“I know this is strictly Jack and Joey’s doing but I really think Reg has got it in him to go far and I admire his Auntie. I’d like to us to help all we can.”

“Of course! We’ve shared all the burdens with them. Don’t forget they took Robin, Daisy and Primula who were, strictly speaking our responsibility. We’ve shared all the sorrows and joys with them. You never told me about your Gran. I don’t think I’ve ever heard you mention her.”

“Odd that. I’ve no idea why. I thought we had shared just about everything! I suppose she’s been dead about sixteen years. I missed her till I met you and then you became my family so I suppose I stopped missing her so much. I still think of her though. It was just sitting in that little cottage brought it all back. She had that same no nonsense attitude and I don’t think I appreciated her till she had gone.”

A small cry from upstairs, had Madge on her feet and, draining the last of her tea and taking a half eaten sandwich with her, she started towards the door. “I’ll see to Aline, if you’ll clear and wash up. Let’s go for a walk this afternoon. I’d like to see something of the area while it’s fine.”

“Fair enough. Wrap Aline up warm and I’ll carry her. We can get part way up to the tops and back before it gets dark.”

They set off, well wrapped up against the chill and walked along chatting idly. They turned along a pack horse trail which led up the hill and gradually climbed up onto the high moors. Eventually, the stone walls ended and the wide open moor lay beyond them, as they turned round the side of a hill, still following the great stones with their worn centres, they paused and turned to look back at the view. Below them, they could see The Witchens, set among the trees which surrounded the garden with a lazy wisp of smoke rising into the still air from the chimney. Farther down the valley, they could see the little village, the stone houses, huddling round the Church and, beyond the village the hills rose again, occasional farmhouses seemingly clinging to the hillside.

They stood for a few minutes, just drinking in the view. “It looks like a painting.” Madge commented. “It’s difficult to believe that ordinary people have their life and death problems here, just like everywhere else. It looks frozen in time.”

After a few more minutes, they moved on and Jem pointed to a farm down in the valley. “If we cut down the track towards the farm there, we can walk back down the lane again. That will probably be as far as we can manage today and still get back in the light.”

They left the pack horse trail and set off down the hill. Soon were walking along a wide grassy track with stone walls on each side. Stopping at a gate to look into a field which contained sheep, contentedly grazing, they were hailed by a stocky young boy who came across the field towards them. His broad face held a welcoming smile and he called out. “Hello. ‘tis a grand day for a walk. Have you come far?”

“We walked up the pack horse trail from the top of Tedders Bank and are cutting back down again now. Are we on the right track?” Jem responded.

“Aye. You keep on down and you’ll come to High Royd. Then you just walk down the gravel track. It’s a bit rough mind. Are you staying at the Witchens?”

“Yes, we’re just staying a few days.”

“I brought your milk and eggs down yesterday morning so I knew you was coming. I’ll walk down to the farm with you. Mrs Jaycott has some bacon for you. If you take it with you, you’ll have it in time for breakfast tomorrow.”

They set off again and Madge asked him “Did you go to school with Reg Entwistle?”

“Aye, he’s my best friend. He came to see me when he was home at half term. I had a letter from him last week. I haven’t written back yet. I’m not much good at writing. I can never think what to say.”

“We’ll be seeing him next week at Miss Wychcote’s wedding. I’ll tell him we met you.”

“That would be grand. I’m glad Miss Phoebe is getting married. I used to go and help Reg with the garden at Many Bushes sometimes and she were real nice. Is she a lot better now?”

“Quite a lot. She can walk with sticks a little way now.”

“I don’t know if she would remember me, but tell her Joe wishes her well.”

“We’ll do that.”

The arrived at the farm and Mrs Jaycott insisted they should come in and have a cup of tea and a slice of cake before going on. Aline had woken during the last part of the walk and, once she had them settled, Mrs Jaycott took her and indulged in an orgy of baby worship.

“Our Bert was getting married last month but he went for a soldier in the spring.” She sighed. “I was hoping for a grandchild by next summer. I love babies. Goodness knows when we’ll see him again. This war seems to go on forever.”

“Perhaps it won’t be too long. They do say we’re getting the better of them now.” Madge comforted her.

Madge thanked her for the precious bacon and soon they were on their way, Jem again carrying Aline.

“What kind people.” Said Madge when they were out of earshot. “Don’t they brew their tea strong, though.”

“I’m glad Reg went to see Joe at half term.” Jem commented “It shows he’s still got his feet on the ground. I’d better warn you though, Mrs Thirtle brews her tea even stronger, and …” He paused and added dramatically, “You’ll have to drink at least two cups! You’ll need all your strength tomorrow.”

Madge laughed and he put his free arm round her shoulder. “Come on, let’s be really naughty and have bacon and eggs tonight with fried bread. This fresh air has made me peckish.”

“Let’s do that. The chops will keep till tomorrow.”

With his arm still round her shoulder, they strolled, in relaxed harmony down the hill.

Last edited by patmac on Wed Apr 27, 2005 7:48 am; edited 2 times in total

 

#558:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Apr 24, 2005 3:49 pm

Oh lovely - thank you Pat. Laughing

 

#559:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Apr 24, 2005 7:05 pm

Thanks so much, Pat. Two fab posts. It's so nice to hear more of Jem's life pre-meeting Madge, and I loved the way he related to Auntie.

And it's such a pleasure reading about your Madge and Jem! Very Happy Love the comments regarding 'yorkshire tea'!

Just wonderful.

 

#560:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sun Apr 24, 2005 8:12 pm

Josie wrote:


And it's such a pleasure reading about your Madge and Jem!



They have a wonderful relationship in your story, Pat.

I have just caught up with several episodes of this, having been lost to the board since Fri, so have had a lovely time reading it all. Smile Smile

 

#561:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Sun Apr 24, 2005 9:48 pm

Lovely posts, Pat. It's good to see Jem less as an authority figure and more as a human being.

 

#562:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2005 10:09 am

Thank you Pat. I love your Madge and Jem!

 

#563:  Author: keren, Location: Israel PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2005 12:30 pm

You paint the picture of the scenery so beautifully.
I feel like going away on holiday myself!

Last edited by keren on Tue Apr 26, 2005 9:47 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#564:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2005 6:13 pm

*joining keren on her hols!*

Thank you Patmac - the last two posts were simply great!! And as so many have said - so nice to see Madge and Jem this way!

 

#565:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2005 6:41 pm

I love to see Madge and Jem's relationship here - they seem more like a young couple, rather than two people weighed down by the worries of the Scool and the San.

And I love what you've written about the countryside *joins the holiday party* Very Happy

 

#566:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2005 7:19 pm

By request!



The next morning, Madge decided to walk down to the village for some fresh vegetables. The weather still held, though there was a mist on the moors and she strolled down the hill, her hands in her pockets and a shopping basket over her arm. She found the shop easily enough from Jem’s directions and loaded her basket with locally grown produce.

On the spur of the moment she decided to walk over to the church and see if it really did have Norman origins. She wandered slowly through the graveyard, reading the tombstones. She wondered as she came across one with a headstone dedicated to ‘Albert Thirtle, 1884 – 1928, Gone Ahead’. There was a space beneath for a further inscription. If this was indeed Mrs Thirtle’s husband, she had been widowed for fifteen years. Madge shuddered at the thought. Why, he had only been forty four when he died. No wonder Mrs Thirtle had learned fortitude.

As she stood reading another Headstone, a woman’s voice addressed her from behind.

“Good morning, my dear. I don’t think we’ve met. Are you visiting someone in the village?”

Madge turned to behold a woman of indeterminate age, wearing a brown knitted suit, the hem of which sagged alarmingly at the back, with a frilly silk, ecru blouse beneath and the most extraordinary hat with long feathers adorning the crown. Her face held the heightened colour Madge recognised in women who laced their corsets too tight.

Madge herself was wearing a navy wool coat over an old blue twinset which had seen better days, with a heather tweed skirt and a simple navy beret. In her simple clothing, with a shopping basket carried casually over her arm, there was nothing to indicate her identity as Lady Russell.

She guessed that this was the Vicar’s wife and certainly did not want to have to waste a precious afternoon of the holiday, being polite to her over tea so she determined to be as vague as possible.

“Good morning. My husband and I are here for a few days. I have just been to the shop for vegetables and wandered over to look in the Church. I hear it is very old. I’m afraid, I got distracted by reading some to the headstones.”

“I am Mrs Hart, the VICAR’S WIFE. Nobody told me there were visitors in the Parish!” said the woman. “Where are you staying?”

“Oh, on the edge of the village, up the hill.” Madge replied, waving her arm vaguely towards the village behind her and deliberately not offering her name. “It’s very quiet here. I don’t suppose you get many strangers visiting.”

“We had a large party here in the summer, though they really weren’t our sort of people. Foreigners and papists. They unsettled the village people with their IDEAS.”

“Really?” Madge replied, suppressing her amusement. “That must have been distressing for you. You have some very old gravestones here. Are there any of particular interest?”

“I’m afraid I have no idea. I think they are all just village people. I don’t think anyone of consequence has ever come from Garnham, it’s just a farming community.” She shrugged. “Very uncouth, most of them. I do my best but it is an uphill struggle.”

“Really?” Repeated Madge in a tone which would have warned any of her former pupils that they should be extremely careful what they said next.

Mrs Hart carried on regardless. “We did have Nicholas Wychcote living here for a while, you may have heard of him?”

“Yes. I’ve heard the name.” Said Madge, dryly. She could hardly believe anyone could be so tactless with a complete stranger. An imp of mischief, long suppressed by the strain of the past few years, bubbled to the surface and with a perfectly straight face, she asked.

“He was a cellist, wasn’t he? Did he play for village concerts?”

“No he did not. He was most rude and would not co-operate with my attempts to bring some culture to the village. His daughter stayed on after he died. She was crippled. The people up at The Witchens had her moved to a hospital. Best place for her, I should think. She obviously wasn’t going to get better.

We get the occasional one who gets ideas above their station. There was one village boy who got mixed up with those people up at The Witchens. They’ve paid for him to go to boarding school and he thinks he will be able to train to be a doctor. I went to see his aunt but she wouldn’t listen. It will end up with him coming back when they find out it is beyond him. Whoever heard of a village boy being a doctor.” Mrs Hart was well into her stride now.

“They were most peculiar people, but then I suppose Papists are. My father, THE CANON, says they believe the most peculiar things. They had one little girl with them who was Anglican, some relative, I believe. She was the daughter of Sir James Russell, the TB specialist. What her parents were thinking of I don’t know!”

Madge decided this had gone far enough.

“For your information, Sybil happens to be my daughter. Mrs Maynard is my sister and the other ladies staying with her are my former pupils. My husband and I visited Reg at his school yesterday. He is doing very well and I will be seeing him again next week when he comes to Miss Wychcote’s wedding. I have to go now as we are going to tea with Mrs Thirtle this afternoon.

Oh, I forgot to give you my name. I am Lady Russell. Good day.”

With a cool nod, she turned and walked regally out of the churchyard.

 

#567:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2005 7:41 pm

Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing

Good for Madge!!! And what an old cow that woman is - fancy saying all that to a complete stranger?

Thanks Pat.

 

#568:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2005 8:38 pm

Bravo, Madge. what a snob the old *********** is!

Loved the bit about lacing her corsets too tight!

 

#569:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2005 10:31 pm

Wonderful! What a lovely set-down! Thanks Pat.

 

#570:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2005 10:51 pm

Laughing Serves her right! Thanks Pat, I thoroughly enjoyed that post!

 

#571:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Apr 25, 2005 11:25 pm

Go Madge!

Nice hat, Sodger!

Thanks Pat - that was great fun Laughing

 

#572:  Author: JoW, Location: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 8:09 am

I am enjoying this SO much. It is such a lovely way to start the day - catching up on my favourite drabbles.

 

#573:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 1:11 pm

Wonderful! Thank you PAt! Go Madge!

 

#574:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 4:17 pm

That was great, Patmac, good for Madge! Very Happy

 

#575:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 5:20 pm

Whooo hoo!!
Nice one Madge!!!


Thanks Patmac!!!!

 

#576:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 9:54 pm

“You’ve been a while. Aline hasn’t stirred and lunch is nearly ready.”

“I met that Vicar’s wife.”

Jem raised one eyebrow. “You look as if you are about to burst. Is she really as bad as they say?”

“Worse.” Madge took the tea he poured for her and sat at the kitchen table. As she told him the story, he stopped filling sandwiches and leaned against the sink.

“Why the ….”

“Sodger!” Madge completed and burst out laughing. “Oh, Jem. You should have seen her face when I told her to whom she was speaking. As Jo would say, she looked like a stranded codfish.”

“Even so, she’s a menace. She must cause a lot of problems.”

“Well, at least she won’t be turning up on our doorstep. I honestly thought when you told me about her on Monday that it had to be an exaggeration.”

After lunch Madge fed Aline and then changed for tea with Mrs Thirtle, while Jem prepared the vegetables for dinner.

At three o’clock they set out with Aline in the folding pram and walked down the hill. Auntie was watching for them, having been ready for at least an hour in case they arrived early.

She was still a little wary with strangers but Madge soon won her over. They talked about Reg and his progress at school. Madge learned a little of Auntie’s history and told her a little of her own. After about an hour, Jem suggested they would need to leave soon if they were to get home before dark and they left with the assurance that they would meet again the following week at Phoebe’s wedding.

“We’ll just pop in again before we leave for home,” promised Madge ”and then we’ll have time to talk when you are down next week.”

As they walked back up the hill, Madge was in a pensive mood.

“Penny for them.” Said Jem “You’re miles away.”

“I was just thinking how you can meet a lot of people and not care if you never see them again and, just occasionally, you meet someone you really do want to know better. Mrs Thirtle is one of those.”

“Good.” He replied. “I feel the same way.”


……

The next day was wet and they spent the day in the house. Jem mended a door handle which was loose and Madge painted an old but shabby chair which was languishing in the scullery. Apart from that, they lazed in front of the fire and read, while Aline lay on the thick rug and gurgled in between naps and feeds.

After dinner, Jem poured two glasses of wine, they listened to a concert on the wireless and were in bed and asleep by ten o’clock.

The Thursday started off misty but by lunchtime had cleared and they walked again on the hills, coming home to another relaxed evening by the fire.

The Friday morning was spent putting the cottage to rights for the next visitors and packing for an early start the next morning. After lunch, they walked down to the village again to call on Mrs Purvis and arrange for her to visit the cottage every couple of weeks and ensure all was well. She was delighted to do so and when Jem paid her up to Christmas, with the promise of another postal order in January, she was almost tearful with gratitude.

“It means we can have little extras.” She explained. “We’ve enough for every day but Lily can’t go to work and I have to be with her all the time. Mrs Hart says I should put her in a home, and then I could go out to work but I couldn’t do that.”

“Of course not.” Said Madge, with sympathy. “She’d no right to say that.”

“Oh, I told her so. We don’t take any notice of her round here. She’s a bit touched herself, I reckon.”

Seeing that Mrs Purvis was really not bothered about the comments, Madge said no more and they left.

They called in at Auntie’s cottage as they passed to say goodbye as they would be leaving early next morning and then went home for their last evening in Garnham.

They left at first light for the long drive home feeling rested and relaxed and ready to face whatever life might bring.

Madge put her hand on Jem’s knee as they left the village. “It’s been a lovely week. When you suggested going to Yorkshire in November, I couldn’t imagine what we would do with ourselves, but I’ve really enjoyed it.”

Jem glanced across at her and saw that she had colour in her cheeks and her eyes were sparkling. After all the worries of the past year, he had regained the girl he had married.

“You know what the locals call Yorkshire?” he asked.

“No, what?”

“God’s own County!”

Last edited by patmac on Wed Apr 27, 2005 7:50 am; edited 1 time in total

 

#577:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 10:41 pm

Awww! Love that no one in the village take notice of the old Sodger!

Thanks Pat.

 

#578:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 11:00 pm

Lovely to see they way Madge and Jem fit in while the Sodger doesn't, and love the way they ignore her!! Twisted Evil Laughing Twisted Evil

 

#579:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 6:21 am

Lovely interlude Pat. I've just caught up about 5 pages! It's so charming (as others have said) to see Madge and Jem as a young(ish) couple rather than the serious guardian figures.

 

#580:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 7:32 am

Two lovely posts, Pat! Love the corset line, love the set-down, love just seeing Madge and Jem as such lovely people! (is that enough love?)

 

#581:  Author: Guest (MaryR),  PostPosted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 8:48 am

Two beautiful episodes that I have just caught up with, Pat.

It's lovely to see Jem and Madge in such different surroundings, revealing such a different side to their characters.

Thank you. Smile Smile

 

#582:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 5:00 pm

Lovely Pat, thank you so much.

Jem and Madge's description of Auntie is just wonderful. And I love that last line and Jem's recognition of the effect that Yorkshire has had on Madge.

 

#583:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 8:02 pm

Just had a mega catch up session on this Pat and it's been fabulous

So good that the boys are recovering well after the accident and it was lovely to see Madge and Jem relaxing and meeting everyone from the village (including The Sodger Twisted Evil )

 

#584:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 8:46 pm

Dear Reg,

I do hope you are better now. Jo told us all about your adventure. It sounds as if you did just the right thing and I’m only thankful that you and your friend are all right. I actually feel sorry for the boy who started it. What terrible things he has learned at home.

I like the sound of whittling. We had a Hobbies Club at school but I don’t remember anyone doing anything like that. Some of the local people did what I think translates as chip carving which sounds the same. I remember watching one man take a piece of wood and hold it, turning it round and round in his hands before he started to work on it. One of the girls asked what he was doing and he said he could tell by the feel what bird or animal was in the wood. I didn’t understand at the time but when he started working it, you could see he knew just what he was doing and he made a beautiful wren.

It has been frantic here, as you might expect, preparing for Phoebe’s wedding on Saturday. I’m having Archie to stay here and you and Auntie will stay with Frieda. Phoebe and Debby are staying with Jo and Frank and his best man are staying with Marie. Frank’s parents are coming and they are staying with Jem and Jo.

The triplets are to be bridesmaids and have new dresses which will then become their best dresses. I have made Tessa a new dress as well.

I’m really looking forward to seeing you and Auntie again.

Tessa sends her love.

Love from Simone


…………


Dear Phoebe,

Thank you for your letter.

I am quite well and back in lessons again. There are still a few scabs on my back which itch like anything but I can walk all right, though not very far. Matron says I should be fine by the weekend.

Hanson is all right as well. After Sir James came and looked at him, Matron let him get up for a little while and he started to get a lot better then. He can’t come to lessons this week and he’s awfully fed up about that. He’s with us out of lessons and sleeping back in the dormitory.

I can’t wait for the weekend. I know you will be too busy to talk but just to see you will be nice.

Love from

Reg

………

Dear Reg,

Thank you for your letter. I went home on Sunday for the day and Mummy told me all about your adventure. It sounds like the tales Auntie Jo tells of when they were in Austria.

Nothing like that happens here. In fact it is just boring.

I am coming to the wedding on Saturday. Phoebe sent an invitation just for me because she said I was one of her friends. I am really excited and everyone here is jealous because most of them have never been to a wedding.

I will see you on Saturday. I can’t wait.

Sybil


… … …


Dear Auntie,

I am so excited that we shall see you at the weekend. I wish we could have you to stay here but, as you know, we only have two bedrooms and so are having Archie to stay and Tessa will come in with me.

We are all so thrilled for Phoebe. She positively glows. She will walk down the aisle with only one stick and holding on to Jack’s arm. Frank doesn’t know that yet. He is so protective and so sweet.

We have the surprise organised for Reg. I hope he is not too embarrassed, but it was Phoebe’s idea and we can’t deny her anything as it is her wedding.

Tessa is so excited that only the threat of staying away from the wedding is getting her to sleep or eat.

I am counting the days

Love

Simone


… … …

Dear Auntie,

I’m sorry if you were upset about the things that happened last week. I didn’t think about the danger, only what might happen if Hanson woke up and moved. I know Doctor Jem (he said I could call him that) came to see you and told you all about it. I do hope you weren’t upset. I’m sorry but I had to do it. He had stood up to Molyneux for me. I’m a bit sorry, I didn’t manage to thump Molyneux, but Mr Evans says if I had I would have been in the wrong and made things worse.

I don’t really understand it all but Hanson’s father spent all his money helping Jews get away from the Nazis and they are really poor now. He never talked about it before but he’s told us – that’s Dixon, MacDonald, Copley and me – a bit about it and we were very proud of him and his Dad. We are known as the inseparables in the school because we all go round together. I do like having friends.

I will see you on Friday. I can’t wait.

Reg

… … …

Dear Mrs Thirtle

I am sorry I have been so long replying to your letter. It has been a busy two weeks here as I am sure you have heard. Thank you so much for the butter for the cake. Anna was at her wits end to know how we would manage. There was enough over to make some of her delicious lemon biscuits. I am very firmly not asking how she got the lemons! I think she must have sold her soul, they are so scarce. The triplets had never seen one before.

Oh, and thank you for the chicken as well. That was a lovely surprise. Anna roasted it with some herbs and made a lovely sage and onion stuffing. Jack carved it at the table just like old times and we stuffed ourselves till we couldn’t move. Then I picked the carcase over to get all the meat off and we had that in sandwiches the next day. Then Anna boiled the bones and made a delicious soup from them. I think we should keep some chickens. The eggs would be so good for the children. Do they need lots of work to keep them?

Madge told me all about their holiday. She looks so much better for the rest. I’m really glad she met you. You know she really brought me up and, although she is my sister, she has been a mother as well. I’m going to be really cheeky now and ask if you could possibly call me Jo and allow me to call you Auntie. I’ve never had an Aunt that I knew and really feel the lack of one. If you don’t feel it is right, I shall understand.

Love from

Jo Maynard

 

#585:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 9:18 pm

Ahhhh, how lovely, and somehow right that Joey too feel she should call her Auntie. Laughing

Thanks Pat.

 

#586:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 9:18 pm

What absolutely fabulous letters, Pat, showing so much love.

I especially liked the request from Jo to call her Auntie - that was so moving and sweet. Smile Smile

Are we going to get a description of the wedding or are you leaving it to our imaginations? Here's hoping.................

 

#587:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 9:29 pm

I wonder what the suprise for Reg is that Pheobe is planning?

 

#588:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 9:49 pm

Lovely, lovely, lovely Very Happy Very Happy (I'm getting very repetitive with my adjectives when it comes to this drabble!)

Bless Jo, that's so sweet and heartfelt. And I especially liked Sybil's letter, especially this bit:

Quote:
Nothing like that happens here. In fact it is just boring.

Of course nothing like that ever happens at the CS. Wink Laughing

thanks Pat Very Happy

 

#589:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 10:13 pm

Awwwwww!!! Lovely letters PatMac!

 

#590:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Wed Apr 27, 2005 10:13 pm

Great letters, thanks, Pat! Also wondering what surprise they are planning for Reg...

 

#591:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 1:31 am

Thanks, Pat. I do like the interactions between Auntie and the others! Also shamefully satisfied by Madge's squashing of the VICAR's WIFE. Twisted Evil

 

#592:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 9:57 am

Wonderful letters - especially Jo's request, very sweet.

Thank you Pat.

 

#593:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 11:40 am

Quite a bundle of letters!

Super as always Pat! Thanks!

What's Reg's surprise???

 

#594:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 5:38 pm

Sophoife wrote:
What's Reg's surprise???


As we say in our family -'Wait and see pie' Twisted Evil


It was Friday morning and Archie and Reg jumped off the train at Leeds, followed rather more sedately by Hugh Douglas. Auntie was waiting, a suitcase and two shopping bags by her side.

As the three approached, Hugh tipped his hat to her politely and held out his hand. They shook hands and he introduced himself.

“Mrs Thirtle, I’m pleased to meet you. I’m Mr Douglas, one of the masters from the school. I was coming into Leeds anyway, so I brought the boys.”

“Thank you. I remember you. You took Reg at the start of term and I saw you at half term.”

Archie picked up Auntie’s case and Reg took one of the shopping bags and they set off up the stairs to cross to their platform, while Hugh, with a polite goodbye, left for the station exit.

The journey down was uneventful. The two boys regaled Auntie with a bewildering account of the term’s events, at which she smiled and made appropriate comments, while wondering what on earth they were talking about. It seemed they lived in a different world.

Fortunately, she had packed a substantial lunch for them and they were silent for very nearly twenty minutes of the journey while they ate that.

To their surprise, they were met in Armiford by Sir James in his big Napier.

“I had to come in to the bank, so it made sense to pick you up at the same time.” He explained as he stowed their cases. “Have you had lunch?”

They assured him they had and set off for Howells where he dropped Archie at Simone’s cottage and then took Auntie and Reg to Frieda’s before driving off to the San in his usual hurry.

They were greeted rapturously by Frieda and Louis and were soon unpacked and drinking tea round the kitchen table.

“We’re all going to Jo’s for tea.” Explained Frieda. “Phoebe is staying with her and she particularly asked to see you today. It will be a bit busy tomorrow. This was going to be a small affair but it sort of grew. Jack is going to bring us back tonight and take all our spare cutlery and crockery to Plas Gwyn for tomorrow. We’ll have to manage by washing up as we go along till Sunday.”

Gerard, who Reg declared had grown yet again, woke and, when he was fed and changed, they all set out for Jo’s house with Reg clutching a small parcel.

They were greeted by Jo, who looked in her element with all the excitement and ushered into the drawing room to be greeted by an elated Phoebe.

“Oh, it’s so good to see you!” she exclaimed. “I was in an agony of worry that you might not be here. I couldn’t possibly be married without you here. Come and sit beside me and tell me how you are.” She held her hand out to Auntie. “Mrs Thirtle, it is so nice to see you again. Thank you for coming.”

They sat each side of her and Jo, taking Frieda and her children with her, left them for a few minutes private conversation.

“Bless her.” Said Phoebe. “She knew I would want a few minutes with you alone. There’ll be no time tomorrow.”

“I just wanted time to tell you that I’m so happy and I probably wouldn’t have ever got here if it hadn’t been for you Reg. I was so lonely and, I realise now, too ill to cope with those feelings. You didn’t make a fuss of me as an invalid. You just accepted that I was a real person trapped inside a body that didn’t work very well. You seemed to understand in a way that Debby couldn’t. I know now that it was because she was so tired from looking after me and so worried about me that all she could do was cope. She’s so different now she doesn’t have the worry. You are my oldest friend and I hope we stay friends forever.”

She turned to Auntie.

“You’ve done such a good job of making Reg what he is. I know it’s been hard letting him go away. I’m sure you have been worrying all the time, this term. I’m know he will do well and we will all be proud of him some day. ”

She smiled and the dimples which she had so longed for were much in evidence.

“I know Simone and Jo have both asked to call you Auntie. We all think of you by that name. Will you be my Auntie, too.”

Auntie’s defences lowered another notch. Despite the danger of the unbearable pain of losing people you love, she was realising that the risk of that pain was worthwhile. Her heart had stayed frozen for too long and the thawing was an almost physical hurt but the rewards were too great to dismiss.

She put her arm round Phoebe’s shoulder and kissed her cheek. Reaching out a hand to grasp Reg’s, she murmured.

“We’re family, Phoebe, love. I thought blood was all that counted but I was wrong.”

For a moment, Phoebe rested her head against Auntie’s shoulder and then the two women saw that Reg was beginning to look embarrassed at the display of emotion and Phoebe sat up straight.

“What is the package you are holding so carefully, Reg?” she queried, with a mischievous smile.

Reg held it out. “It’s a little present for you.” He said, reddening. “I made it and it seemed right for you. I remembered how you used to watch them in the evening.”

Phoebe took the carefully wrapped package and opened it. With a cry of pleasure, she held in her hand a baby rabbit. One ear was a little bigger than the other and, a perfectionist might have criticized the anatomical proportions but Reg had captured the very spirit of the baby rabbit sitting alertly erect which had been hidden within the wood.

“You really made this, yourself?” she queried in wonder.

“Yes. I’m not very good at it yet but I wanted you to have something I made.”

“It’s perfect.” Phoebe sat admiring the gift for a few moments and then collected herself.

“I shall treasure this, Reg. It is my own little bit of Garnham. Let’s go through to the dining room. The others will be waiting for us so they can start tea.” Phoebe stood up and with the help of two sticks, walked to the door. Auntie and Reg followed and they passed through into the dining room where the table was laid for tea.

 

#595:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 5:43 pm

Pat this is pleasant, agreeable, delightful and perfect.

*Wot? Me look up different words for lovely in a thesaurus?Never! Wink *

 

#596:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 6:43 pm

That jsut made me cry Pat - just seeing how much they mean to each other and
Quote:
Despite the danger of the unbearable pain of losing people you love, she was realising that the risk of that pain was worthwhile. Her heart had stayed frozen for too long and the thawing was an almost physical hurt but the rewards were too great to dismiss.



Also loved the boys being quiet for almost 20 minutes while eating lunch - so typical

And do we get to see who Hugh is meeting in Leeds? Wink

 

#597:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 9:36 pm

It's hard to see through the tears, Pat.

 

#598:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 10:04 pm

*reaches for tissues!*

Pat, that was just beautiful!
Thank you!

 

#599:  Author: dackel as guest,  PostPosted: Thu Apr 28, 2005 10:10 pm

That was very moving, Pat, thank you!

*joining the general trend not to say 'lovely', though of course, it is Very Happy *

 

#600:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 8:54 am

Pat, that was incredibly moving, especially the words that Phoebe uses to express her thanks to Reg. What a lovely thing to say.

And Auntie here is experiencing all sorts of emotions - but is realising that even pain can bring blessings.

Absolutely beautiful!! Smile Smile

 

#601:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 12:00 pm

Have just caught up on pages of this. Glad Reg was such a hero and not too badly injured. Poor Molyneux - he didn't stand a chance with a father like that. Love the way Jem and Madge were so nice and normal in this drabble and the way Madge routed the 'Sodger' silly woman she should know better. The scenes between Madge & Jem and Jo and Jack and all the letters were fabulous. It is is just such a wonderfully happy drabble, though I have had tears in my eyes.

 

#602:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 4:05 pm

The dining room was full of familiar faces. Sitting round the table were Jo, Jack, Simone, Frieda, Marie, Sybil and Debby with the small children, spaced between them Stephen was there, sitting in his high chair and thumping the tray energetically with a spoon. Even Gerard was present, sleeping on an easy chair set to one side.

As Reg entered the room, Tessa ran from her seat to Reg, but was beaten by one of the triplets. Jo stared in astonishment as Len, usually the least demonstrative, ran forward, shrieking with excitement and held up her arms to be picked up. Tessa faltered and her face fell but Reg crouching down with his arm round Len, beckoned her to him. Lifting the two little girls up, one in each arm, he kissed them both soundly on the cheek and stood beaming.

“Oh, this is wonderful! Everyone from the summer is here, what could be more perfect!”

He hardly noticed as Jack ushered him to the head of the table and he sat down with a bit of a thump, a little girl on each knee while Auntie and Phoebe were placed each side of him. Jack took his place at the other end of the table and everyone bowed their heads, as he said the simple Latin grace without which no meal commenced in this household.

“Benedic, Domine, nos, et haec tua dona, quae de tua largitate sumus sumpturi. Per Christum Dominum nostrum.”

(Bless us, O Lord, and these Thy gifts, which we are about to receive from Thy bounty. Through Christ our Lord.)

They all replied with a heartfelt ‘Amen’ and a tide of conversation rose and drowned Reg. He sat, his arms round the two little girls and watched as sandwiches and savoury tarts were passed round, tea was poured and everyone except the three at the head of the table, began to eat.

Jo paused in her conversation with Debby and looked across at Reg who was still cuddling the little girls, who had their arms round his neck and realised that he looked overwhelmed.

“Len, Tessa! Come and have your tea. Reg can’t eat with you on his knee. Come on, he’s not going to run away!”

The two little girls obediently climbed down and went to their places. Reg took refuge in filling his plate and, as he ate, the conversation began to make sense. Everyone was reminiscing about the summer holiday. Jo’s encounter with the burglars, the first picnic by the stream, walks on the hills were recounted amid much laughter. Reg sat quietly listening, and his eye caught Sybil’s. She grinned conspiratorially and he smiled in return.

Eventually no one could eat any more and, at a signal from Jo, all the children, except Stephen and Gerard, scrambled down from the table and ran out of the door, giggling.

They returned a moment later, each clutching a carefully wrapped oblong parcel.

Jo stood up and looked down the table at Reg.

“Tomorrow is Phoebe’s wedding day. It is also Reg’s birthday. There won’t really be time to celebrate that tomorrow so we thought a birthday tea a day early would have to do for this year.”

She signalled to the children, who had formed a line, headed by a joyful Sybil, and each came forward and handed Reg the package they carried. When Tessa, who came last by virtue of her age, had given Reg her gift and returned to her seat, Jo rose to her feet.

“We’ve all been blessed this year with new friends and new family.” She paused and smiled at Auntie. “For some of us, our time in Garnham was a renewal, a respite from worries. We had some adventures.”

“We always do with you around, Jo” Marie broke in, her face alight with amusement.

“No heckling, please!” Jo rounded on her friend. “Now where was I?”

“Having adventures?” ventured Jack, a wicked twinkle in his eyes.

Not a whit put out, Jo bowed to him. “Thank you, kind Sir, I’ll deal with you later!”

By now all the adults and Reg and Sybil were laughing and the little children followed suit, even though they didn’t understand.

“I give up!” said Jo plaintively. “I had such a nice speech planned and you are a load of Philistines so I shan’t waste it on you. Reg, the presents are all books, as you’ve probably guessed by the shapes. We all hope you enjoy them! Auntie, welcome to the family. Phoebe, this was your idea, on your head be it! Let’s have a toast!” she lifted her teacup and waved it wildly round her head, causing Frieda to duck.

“To New Beginnings, especially for Phoebe and Reg!”

Everyone stood and held up their cups.

“To new beginnings!”







That should be the end of 'New Beginnings' but there will be one more post tomorrow to round it off.

 

#603:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 4:11 pm

What a gorgeous scene... I love the Tessa/Len/Reg moment! I'm so sad that there's only one post left of this, Sad I've enjoyed it so much, Thanks Patmac!

 

#604:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 5:01 pm

We're all going to miss this, Pat.

Come back soon and Happy Birthday Reg!

 

#605:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 5:46 pm

What what what?!?!?!?! Only one more to come???

Pat I'm sorry to inform you that the hutch you pretend to keep your bunny in is a lot bigger and more secure than you think - it projects a force field round your entire property and we will be seeing more of Reg - soon!!! Twisted Evil Twisted Evil Twisted Evil Twisted Evil Twisted Evil Twisted Evil

 

#606:  Author: JoW, Location: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 6:08 pm

No - these are my friends. I need to see more of them. Please, Please, Please continue Reg's story soon.

 

#607:  Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 6:34 pm

Hmm. I've loved this - but also interested to see the next part, whenever you have time to do it (or the bunny bites!)

I never thought this would last so long when you started Part 1, Pat - I'm sure you didn't either!

This has been wonderful, from beginning to end. Thank you so much.

 

#608:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 7:58 pm

That was lovely Pat...it would be nice to know what books they had chosen for him...oh and to see the wedding , or is that the last post in Part 5? Razz Razz

Look forward to the start of Part 6! Twisted Evil

 

#609:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 9:25 pm

"So when does Part 6 begin then, Pat?"

*Ducks to avoid computer monitor flung with some force!!! Wink *

Lovely post - glad Tessa wasn't upstaged.

 

#610:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Fri Apr 29, 2005 10:19 pm

That really was lovely!!


I can just see Reg sitting there with Len and Tessa on his lap!!!!

 

#611:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 9:47 am

Gorgeous posts, both of them.

Also had tears in my eyes at Reg and Pheobe together - you've brought that relationship to life so well. And I loved that last post. Nice to see the very beginning of Len and Reg's friendship, and I adore Reg and Sybil.

And how very Joey - even down to her almost whacking Frieda over the head with her teacup! Laughing

Looking forward to the last post - and part 7 of course Wink

 

#612:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 11:04 am

Phoebe Wychcote looked up at the man standing beside her. “It’s all right.” She said, with amusement in her voice. “You’ll be fine and it will soon be over.”

Jack gave her a quick grin. “Sorry. I should be soothing your nerves, not the other way round.”

“Just think of it as practice. You’ve got three daughters to give away remember!”

The organ, which had been playing soft music while everyone assembled, suddenly went quiet.

Jack took a deep breath. “Are you ready, Phoebe”

“Oh, yes! I’m ready.”

The familiar notes of the bridal march rolled out and Phoebe and Jack set off slowly down the aisle, the triplets walking behind with serious faces, as befitted the occasion.

The church was full of beaming faces. They passed staff from the San who had played a part in making this day possible, interspersed with patients who had become friends with Phoebe.

They walked on and there, craning their necks, were Nell Wilson with Gwynneth Lloyd, Dolly Edwards and Marjorie Durrant, all of whom had become friends as they had visited Phoebe in the last few months.

In front of them sat Jem and Madge with Anna and Rösli.

Then they came to Simone, Frieda, Marie and Jo, with all their children and Sybil.

In the very front row, as befitted family were Debby, Auntie and Reg.

Frank’s brother and his wife, with Archie, sat on the other side of the aisle in the front row.

At the very front, stood Frank and his best man.

As her eyes focused on Frank, the rest of the congregation became a blur and Phoebe moved gladly forward to join him, her face ablaze with happiness.


THE END OF PART 5

 

#613:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 11:10 am

Oh I welled up then!! What a lovely ending Very Happy And loved Pehobe teasing Jack at the beginning there! Laughing

Thanks so much for this Pat, I have enjoyed it immensely from beginning to end - a wonderful tale and perfectly written. Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy

Am counting the days til the next bit begins.

 

#614:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 11:23 am

Perfect, utterly perfect, Pat. Smile Smile

You do realise that no one is going to stop hounding you for the next part!!

Rolling Eyes Rolling Eyes Rolling Eyes

 

#615:  Author: Kim, Location: Tipperary, Ireland PostPosted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 1:15 pm

MaryR wrote:


You do realise that no one is going to stop hounding you for the next part!!


echoes MaryR - more please, soooooooon


really enjoyed this entire drabble

 

#616:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 3:01 pm

Absolutely beautiful Pat - thank you so much. Kiss

 

#617:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 4:31 pm

Please, please Pat, this isn't the absolute final end, is it? There will be another part in the very near future, won't there?

Thank you.

 

#618:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 4:48 pm

It's not the end by any means but I've been writing it solidly since last November and could do with a slight break to catch up on other people's drabbles and also gather my thoughts about the next part which I've not started yet.

Bunnies are still fit and well but squabbling among themselves at the moment about how the next part should go! Sooner or later, the opening sentence will be whispered in my ear and then I'll be off again.

Thanks for all the encouragement. I didn't know I had 120,400 words in me! Rolling Eyes

 

#619:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 5:46 pm

Well done you! And thank you so much for all of them. I'm afraid I'm another eagerly awaiting the next bit - but enjoy your break! Very Happy

 

#620:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 6:43 pm

Very glad to hear that more will be forthcoming Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy

This has been wonderful, Pat. No doubt Miss A would tell me to find some new vocabulary, but this one fits so well I keep reiterating. Think she'd feel better if I used Celia's version from As You Like It to describe the birthday dinner? It fits! Very Happy

 

#621:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 7:45 pm

Thank you Pat!!!
That was a perfect finish to THIS installment!!!

 

#622:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Sun May 01, 2005 12:49 am

Thanks Pat! Another wonderful couple of episodes. The tea was perfect as was wat we saw of the wedding.

Enjoy your break though I am looking forward to the next part.

 

#623:  Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under PostPosted: Sun May 01, 2005 8:39 am

Thank you Pat! I welled up too reading the last few lines.

*wanders innocently round to the force-field monitor - yep, it's still working Twisted Evil *

 

#624:  Author: JoW, Location: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sun May 01, 2005 10:33 am

Thank you Pat for a lovely story, beautifully written. I look forward to more, when you're ready. I wouldn't dream of nagging ..... but don't let it be TOO long.

 

#625:  Author: keren as guest,  PostPosted: Sun May 01, 2005 10:53 am

oh dear me, another lovely drabble has finished

 

#626:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Sun May 01, 2005 8:59 pm

Pat, that was a perfect end to this installment. I must admit, I'm starting to worry about the potential Tessa-Reg-Len love triangle...

Thank you, and enjoy your break - you deserve it! (see, I can do patience... Wink )

 

#627:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Sun May 01, 2005 9:37 pm

Thankyou for a perfect ending to thins part Pat - I have enjoyed reading this so much and will try to learn patience for the next part

But you do deserve a rest after all the effort you've put into this

 

#628: A VIllage Boy's Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Mon May 02, 2005 2:46 am

Thanks for this wonderful ending, Pat and for all your hard work in writing this. Will await the next part with as much patience as I can muster, though I do understand that you need a break first!

 

#629:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon May 02, 2005 12:24 pm

Thank you for a lovely ending to a wonderful drabble Pat. Very Happy

Take as long as you need for a break - you deserve it.

Liz

 

#630:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Mon May 02, 2005 6:27 pm

Echoes all the above - perfect ending, and so lovely!

 

#631:  Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Tue May 03, 2005 2:59 pm

Thank you so much for this, Pat.

Take a good long break now - you deserve it!

 

#632:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Wed May 04, 2005 6:10 am

A belated posting to let you know how much I've enjoyed this part of Reg's story (how exactly does he grow into the twit in Prefects?). Enjoy your break.



Can you believe it is now Wednesday Afternoon and I haven't been online since last Thursday. I'm doooooomed. I am NEVER going to catch up!

 

#633:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Wed May 04, 2005 11:19 am

Thank you Pat. Wonderful - am looking forward to part 6, when you're ready!

 

#634:  Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh PostPosted: Wed May 04, 2005 11:51 am

I really enjoyed this Pat, thank you. Will look forward to the next installment.

 

#635:  Author: keren, Location: Israel PostPosted: Sat May 07, 2005 8:35 pm

Enjoyed this one very much.
there was just aprogram on TV here about an English person who had spent his money on saving Jewish children before the war, so it reminded me of this drabble.
Obviously too much on this board as I ahve read 2 more things in the paper that kept reminding me of the CS.

 

The CBB -> Ste Therese's House


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