The Village Boy's Tale Part 7 28/07/05 twice COMPLETE
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#1: The Village Boy's Tale Part 7 28/07/05 twice COMPLETE Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Jun 17, 2005 5:04 pm

Sorry this has been so long. It has taken a serious tussle with bunny and I think I lost. I've cried in several people's beer over this next part Embarassed

I just hope the bunny was right!

Reg boarded the train at Leeds feeling much more confident. He was able to join his fellow inseparables on the train and, while he had enjoyed his holidays at home, he was quite ready to get back to school. His results at the end of his first term were good enough to ensure that he would move up the school with his friends, which was a great relief. He had so looked forward to going home for Christmas and had enjoyed the first few days, telling Auntie all about school and then meeting up with Joe. It was fun getting out on his bike and feeling free to come and go as he please. Then the weather had closed in and he had felt isolated at home away from his friends. There was a distance growing between Reg and his home which he was, as yet, too young to understand, though Auntie recognised it with resignation.

At his first Maths coaching, Mr Evans told him that, with a little extra effort this term, he might be able to join his own form after Easter. To that end, an extra session of Maths had been scheduled for him each week. Mr Wheeler was similarly encouraging about his Latin. Reg had made up the best part of a year in one term and it was hoped that this would be his last term of individual coaching in that subject too.

There were no new boys this term. Dr Cartwright and John Wheeler had agreed that they could not manage any more boys in either house till the staffing shortage was resolved. Jack Parsons had joined Chaucer House and was taking over some of the Junior teaching for his first term. His subjects were Maths and Science which was a great relief to Charles who had been taking Junior Maths (not his favourite subject) and enabling him to take some of the Junior English classes from Hugh. In the Senior School, however, yet another master had been forced to retire due to ill health. It was not unexpected as he was in his seventies, but still a blow when it came.

By the Saturday of the first week, everyone was back into a routine and Christmas was a dim memory. With no new boys and an extra member of staff, it had looked as if things would run better this term at Chaucer House. Jack Parsons still needed a fair bit of help and encouragement at the present but his confidence was growing and he seemed to be fitting in nicely.

In late January news had come through of the lifting of the siege of Leningrad and the first real withdrawal of German troops on mainland Europe. Spirits were high and it seemed that the end might be in sight, even if some way off.

Hardly had they finished celebrating this than news started trickling in of a new Blitz on London and Copley was called out of lessons one morning and, within an hour, was on his way to his Grandparents’ home stunned by the loss of his mother and younger sister.

John called the inseparables into his study at morning break and broke the news to them privately before Charles told the whole form.

“Will he come back?” Dixon asked.

“I expect so.” Said John. “His father will get compassionate leave and be sent home. Copley will probably stay at home as long as his leave lasts, then he’ll come back.”

“What do we say to him?” Hanson asked, anxiously. “We can’t ignore it. That would look as if we didn’t care but we won’t want to make things worse for him.”

“You’ll just have to be as helpful as you can. He’s going to be sad and different people handle that in different ways. He might not want to talk about it. He might even act as if he doesn’t care. Just try and go along with what he seems to want. If you’re not sure, come and see me and we’ll try and work it out together. The main thing is to show him you are his friends and that hasn’t changed.”

The four remaining friends trooped out of the room, no longer a quintet.

- - - - -

It was ten o’clock at night and John stood up and stretched. The fire had burnt down to ashes and the room was growing cold. He rubbed his hands to warm them and looked ruefully at the in tray which was still piled with paper.

Apart from the never ending bills, requests for application forms, letters from parents, forms from the Government and timetables for the next term, there was a steady stream of letters from Old Boys, sharing news, asking advice or just needing to be in contact with their innocent boyhood days. Eric Cartwright, the Head at Polgarth House had commented on the increase in such letters when they had met earlier in the term. They each struggled, both with the quantity and to find suitable replies. What did one say to a young man who had been maimed for life that wouldn’t sound facile? Or one about to go into battle who just needed to contact someone from a happy time in his life?

Worse still were the letters from parents, telling of the death of yet another young man. Each time John received one of these, he was instantly reminded of that lost soul in happier circumstances. These letters, too had to be answered.

The School as a whole was still short of five staff. Both Heads were doing more teaching just to keep things manageable and the administration was suffering. Eric still had a Secretary but then he had a heavier load. The Senior School had three forms in each year, and so had more staff. John’s secretary had joined up early in the war and he had not been able to find another. It took an unusual woman who would move to an isolated valley and live in the company of around one hundred boys and only two female staff.

As the weeks had gone by he had noticed that the staff seemed to become tired earlier in the term. There was still no news of the hoped for move into Europe, though rumours abounded. Everyone was aware that, when it did come, it would be a hard struggle and there was fear mixed with the anticipation. John wondered if there was anyone in the country now who had not lost a friend or relative. He turned off the lights and left the room. There were lights under the door of the Staff Room and the murmur of voices but he didn’t feel like company tonight, and walked slowly up the stairs with a heavy tread. He lay in bed thinking through the first few weeks of term. Gradually, he drifted off to sleep.

Last edited by patmac on Thu Jul 28, 2005 8:39 pm; edited 39 times in total

 

#2:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Jun 17, 2005 6:22 pm

Yippee! Whohoo! It's back!


Oh, but so sad, poor Copley and (((((John))))) how terrible having to answer those letters.

Thanks Pat - think bunny was right! Laughing

 

#3:  Author: Alex, Location: Hunts, UK PostPosted: Fri Jun 17, 2005 8:52 pm

Good to see part 7 up and running. Thanks, Pat.

 

#4:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Jun 17, 2005 10:02 pm

So glad this is back. A nice surprise to come home to. Very Happy

I do feel for Auntie, seeing Reg growing further away from her like that.

Poor Copley. Crying or Very sad and poor John. The poor man needs a big fat hug with everything he's got to cope with.

Thanks Pat.

 

#5:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Fri Jun 17, 2005 11:18 pm

It's back, I'm so pleased, though that was a very sad post.

 

#6:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 12:36 am

Thanks Pat - good to see this back.

Poor Copley and Poor John - what a burden he carries.

Liz

 

#7:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 11:42 am

So glad this is back, thanks Pat

 

#8:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 12:00 pm

I would have thrown a party to celebrate the return of this PatMac, but the opening proved to be too sad.

You're really bringing home that most families suffered losses and that these losses affected other people as well.

 

#9:  Author: keren, Location: Israel PostPosted: Sat Jun 18, 2005 8:10 pm

I was wondering when this would come back.
Thanks

 

#10:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 2:37 am

What a sad beginning. Crying or Very sad
But I'm so glad it's started.

(I don't suppose you have a secretarial candidate in mind....)

 

#11:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 8:14 am

Sorry I was missing yesterday. We were on our office outing to Royal Ascot. I couldn't resist betting on 'Saintly Rachel' though lost my money!




In the Staff Room, four of the staff were sipping cocoa, poring over the timetable and form lists trying to find an answer to the perennial problem of the endless round of work. Reg was not the only boy receiving coaching and there were some who needed it and were not getting it.

“We’ve been over this so many times. There is just no way to improve it.” Paul threw down his pencil in disgust. “What we need is two extra staff at least and a Secretary for John. Let’s face it, we’re all doing as much as we can. I’m off to bed. I’m supervising before breakfast tomorrow.”

He left the room and the others looked at one another.

“He’s not usually as down as that.” Commented George. “He hasn’t had bad news from home has he?”

“Not that I know of.” Charles looked worried. “I think he’s just tired. We all are. I just hope he’s not coming down with anything.”

“I had an idea in the Christmas holidays. I mentioned it to John in passing but we were busy at the time and I actually forgot it till now. You might think it’s a bit crazy.”

“Well don’t be mysterious, Hugh. We shan’t shout you down. Any idea is worth having.”

“I met a woman teacher from a girls school over New Year and she was saying that they had problems at the start of the war but a lot of married women came back into teaching and there are women coming through college now actually looking for posts. What do you think the school would say to taking on a few more women. Nancy Hulton fits in well and I should think she would welcome another woman or two about the place.” He paused and looked round hesitantly. “Is it worth a thought.”

There was silence for a moment.

“I never considered women teachers. I don’t think any boys’ schools have them except for the very small boys. Just because we’ve never done it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t. You’ve obviously thought about it. How did you see it working.”

“I was thinking of people who could teach the younger boys, Second Form and Lower Third. I mean, really why should it be all men teachers, just because it’s a boys’ school? I’m only suggesting starting with the smaller boys because I can’t see some people accepting women farther up the school. It’s only a suggestion.”

“Go on. It’s certainly radical but it could just be the answer.”

“I’ve another idea. I wonder why we keep so separate from the Senior School. We’ve men here who could teach higher up the school and if we could get staff for the First, Second and Third Forms, it would free people to help up there.”

“I wonder why we’ve never considered women before? One of our strengths has been in not following the traditional pattern. There’d be some resistance from some of the old timers, of course.” Charles put in, thoughtfully.

“Come on! Lets be honest. You’re thinking of Cockcroft!” George added, bluntly.

Charles grimaced. “It has the advantage of making him less indispensable!”

“True! We might even get it through on that basis.”

“There’s something else to consider.” Hugh butted in. “It wouldn’t be right to do this just for the duration. We can’t just take people on as a stop gap and get rid of them when the war is over. I know it’s legal but it already makes me feel insecure and it’s so unusual that women might feel they can’t take the risk.

“You’ll be safe. Not all the men will come back and you are carving your place here already. I don’t know about women though. There’s bound to be some turnover, though. Women get married and leave anyway.” Charles said, easily.

“Not all of them. Nancy hasn’t and she’s well in her thirties. In any case, there may not be enough men willing to come back into teaching. We’d need to regard this as a permanent thing, just like we do with men who come. After all, not all of them stay.”

George had been quietly listening and thinking.

“Carter’s wife was a teacher before she married. She taught history at a good girls school right up to matric. Now her girls are away at school, I think she’d jump at the chance of part time work. If she took over the History in the lower forms, and Hugh took the older boys, it would free John a lot more.”

“Good idea.” Charles was getting enthusiastic.

“I did mention the idea of women to John but he didn’t react. It may not be something the Governors would accept.” Hugh was getting slightly alarmed that his idea was being taken up with quite such enthusiasm. “I thought at the time it was that I mentioned it just before he got a phone call but it might be that he was against it. He’s never mentioned it again. Don’t forget I’m very new and don’t really know how the politics of the school work.”

“They work like all politics.” Said Charles, wryly. “You have to play by the rules, let the Governors discuss it and then think it’s their idea anyway. John’s good at that. He’d get Sir Julian on side and he’d deal with the old duffers. If we could show them that getting the staffing levels up would mean we could take more boys, there’d be no objections to taking on anyone with the right qualifications.”

“I’m not suggesting we take anyone without the right qualifications! Even Oxford accepts women on a par with men now. Hilary, that’s the teacher I met at New Year, was telling me of one of their old girls who is making quite a stir at Oxford and is likely to come out with a First in Classics. I don’t think we’d turn down a man with that sort of background.”

“Leave it with me.” Charles said, looking at the clock. “I’ll sound out John on the idea. Personally, I think it’s a good idea. I wonder if, in the future, we’ll see schools like this taking girls as well as boys. We say often enough that things will change after the war. Maybe this is one of the ways. Let’s turn in now. I’ll talk to John tomorrow.”

 

#12:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 8:22 am

This is fascinating, Pat. Can totally imagine this sort of conversatino taking place. And brings home how much WW2 changed women's role in our society, and the issues that arose when they were supposed to just revert to their 'place in society' when the men came home.

Even now male staff well outnumber females at all boys schools. Though I guess the same can be said the other way round too.

Oh, and have I mentioned how much I like Hugh?! Wink Laughing

Thanks

ETA: Meant to say hope you had fun at Ascot! Very Happy

Last edited by Josie on Sun Jun 19, 2005 8:43 am; edited 2 times in total

 

#13:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 8:25 am

Good for Hugh, and a wonderful way to get shot of that t*rd Cockcroft! Agree with Josie - times have changed so much in such a relatively short time.

Thanks Pat.

 

#14:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 1:16 pm

I'd say that the bunny is well on track, Pat. Thanks.

 

#15: A Village Boy's Tale - 7 Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 2:54 pm

Agrees with all these comments. It really is a reflection on how much things have changed in the last 50 years, though I certainly agree that most all-boys' schools today still have mostly male teachers.

Of course, I am now racking my brains trying to think how many real-life schools like Polgarth, which were all-boys' schools then, now admit girls, at least to their 6th forms if not throughout the school. Also, how many of them also admit day students as well as boarders.

This is certainly well on track, Patmac, and it's great that Hugh now feels so comfortable with his fellow staff room colleagues that he is able to put forward the idea of recruiting some women to the staff, and to have thought things through so fully before doing so. Will be awaiting future developments with great interest.

 

#16:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 8:44 pm

So pleased this is back, I'm sat here grinning like an idiot cos its back!!!

Yay! Very Happy

I'm sure John and the governors will see sense and employ some women teachers

 

#17:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 8:56 pm

Great to see this back again, and with such a strong start as well.

 

#18:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Jun 19, 2005 10:11 pm

Thanks Pat

Hope you enjoyed Ascot.

Glad Hugh has settled in well enough to make suggestions like that in the staffroom.

Liz

 

#19:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 12:00 am

Excellent start to part 7 Pat (part 7 Shocked )

When I was at Leeds Girls there was 1 male member of staff - the bursar (and the handyman - but he didn't count Rolling Eyes ). Shortly afterwards they got a young male dishy physics teacher - he spent most lunchtimes at the pub - presumably because he felt very out of place in the staffroom Very Happy

 

#20:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 4:25 am

Love the assessment of how to cope with school politics! Interestingly I was at an all-girls school in the 70s/80s, with an amazing number of male heads of department...plus a male principal who arrived when I was in Lower Sixth. My year was less than impressed as he followed a most impressive female principal ( and also happened to be the brother of the somewhat unpopular chemistry teacher). I seem to recall that we treated him withj (at best) polite disdain!

 

#21:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 10:26 am

Thank you Pat, great to see this back. Look forward to seeing whether they take up Hugh's idea.

 

#22:  Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 1:07 pm

Hurrah, this is back too!

I'm learning so much about how WWII affected ordinary people from this, Pat. Thank you.

 

#23:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 5:51 pm

We had a good time at Ascot and have just heard from Rachael that she was there as well! It would have been such an EBD coincidence if we had met, though I'm not sure we would have recognised one another all dressed to the nines and wearing hats Wink

some photos are on our family website which is the one linked to my profile at the end of the post.



“What do you think?”

Charles looked anxiously at John, who was leaning back in his chair thinking through the idea.

“In principle, I can’t see anything wrong with it. I think Eric would agree, if we can get it past the Governors. Some of them will be fine but we’ve a few of the old school, if you’ll pardon the pun, who regard any change with suspicion. Mind you, if we lost some of the older staff who couldn’t accept it, we’d be no better off and the unpleasantness of dealing with resentment would be hard on the new women. I did mean to look into it earlier in the term after Hugh suggested it at Christmas but it’s just been so busy and it’s not something to rush. Oddly enough, I thought about it last night.”

“I’ll tell you this, John. There is a rush! If we don’t get more staff, we’ll have to refuse any boys except First Form in September. We’ve some staff who are at the end of their tether, not just because they’re working long days and not getting their rightful time off but because they feel so frustrated at not being able to do their jobs properly. Everyone puts a cheerful face on it when you’re around because they don’t want to add to the problem, but we only want one key person to go sick and the whole school will be in trouble.”

They left it there but, after lessons ended, Charles saw John striding up the hill to the Senior School, a rare event during the week these days. Charles received a phone message asking him to take supper and prayers and John didn’t return till later in the evening, whereupon he went straight to his study and spent a long while on the phone.

Copley returned after two weeks, looking rather pale and, somehow, older. His father brought him back, already in his Naval Uniform for he was on his way to Scapa Flow to return to service. Lieutenant Copley was introduced to the rest of the inseparables and spent some time with John, for he was an Old Boy of the school, before he had to leave to continue his journey North.

Copley settled back in but it would be a long while before he recovered his sense of fun and, despite the efforts of his friends, seemed to somehow stand apart from them.

Half Term was all but abandoned. Easter was early in April and it was decided to extend that break instead. John asked all the staff to stay over the weekend as he expected to have to call a Staff Meeting on the Saturday evening, though he would not reveal the reason. The only person who objected was Cockcroft but John, looking grim, called him into his study to discuss the matter. What was said was never revealed but Cockcroft emerged looking somewhat shaken and retired to his room for the evening.


Paul speculated quietly to Charles that it might have something to do with Hugh’s suggestion of women teachers.

Charles grinned. “Whatever it is, I’m just glad John has finally lost patience with that ass, Cockcroft. John doesn’t often come the heavy Head but he’s quite capable of it, thank goodness.”

John went to a meeting at the Senior School on the half term Saturday and several cars were seen driving up the lane, causing some speculation among both staff and boys. When Sir Julian drove John down to Chaucer House and announced he was staying the night, all the staff were sure something important was afoot. Charles was called into the study and emerged after a good half hour looking bemused but pleased and refused to reveal what had been discussed. The staff were buzzing with excitement.

The whole staff met with Sir Julian and John in the staff room after prayers. The younger boys were packed off to bed with permission to read and, even talk provided they put their lights out and settled down at their usual time. The older boys were on their honour to go to bed on time so all the staff could attend. Even the staff who lived out and the part time masters had come up to the school, making for a crowded room.

Conversation ceased as John stood up to speak.

“Thank you all for being here, especially those who had other plans for this weekend. You’ve all been aware, I am sure, that there has been a meeting at the Senior School today which was attended by several Governors.

As you all know, we are short staffed. Everyone is working flat out to keep things running smoothly but we have hit a crisis point. We have boys here who, in normal times, would be receiving extra coaching which they are not getting and the same applies at Polgarth House. Equally we have some very able boys who would normally be working above their age group and we can’t give them the extra attention they need.

We have never believed in treating a Form as ‘average’. One of our main strengths has been our ability to cope with a wide range of abilities and let every boy fulfil his potential.

As you also know, there is a national shortage of men teachers. Where we have gone wrong is in assuming, each term, that this war will soon be over. We did the same thing in the first war. ‘Over by Christmas’, everyone said and my predecessor ended up with the same problems.

The trouble is, this war has gone on longer than the first already! We are grateful to those who came out of retirement to help. We couldn’t have got this far without them. However, that was meant to be a stop gap measure and there are three staff at the Senior School who have said they cannot carry on beyond July and would prefer to leave sooner. ”

Sir Julian stood up in what Hugh recognised as a rehearsed manoeuvre. “Clever!” he thought, seeing the whole presentation through politically aware eyes.

“Basically, we don’t know when this war will end. We are certain that we will win it, eventually, and that means it is even more essential that we ensure we are ready when the end comes. It will take a long while to recover from this conflict and boys at Chaucer House today may well be in positions to make a difference in years to come. That alone makes the right decisions now vital.

You know we had a meeting today. We managed to get a quorum of Governors up here and have taken some decisions. Before I tell you what they are, I will tell you what the stakes are.

I am, as you all know, an Old Boy. What you may not know is that I was, before I came here, labelled a dunce! My reports were pretty awful and my father was at his wits end to know what to do with the duffer of the family. My brothers were steaming ahead. My two sisters, denied the opportunity of school, as girls were then, had somehow taught themselves Greek and Latin and were miles ahead of me in Maths. The only redeeming comment on my report was ‘Roper has an enquiring mind but chooses not to apply it within the classroom.’”

He paused, to allow for the round of chuckles at this.

“Fortunately for me, a friend mentioned Polgarth to my father and he sent me here as a last resort. It turned out that I wasn’t a complete dunce after all and, after a lot of coaching, I finally grasped enough to go to Oxford. When I was invited to become a Governor of this School, I made one stipulation in accepting. I would fight my corner in ensuring that all boys entering here received the same help I did.

You’ve all done the best you can. I know you are all frustrated by the workload which means you are struggling to maintain that standard. We have, today, agreed some changes which, we hope, will help.”

He sat down and John stood up.

“We have decided that, in order to maintain our standards, we have to be radical. We are planning to recruit some women teachers.”

 

#24:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 6:02 pm

This is fantastic, I can just see all of them in the meeting.

Look forward to learning the result of it!

((Copley and his father))

 

#25:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 6:04 pm

Yay - excellent


Wonder what Cockcroft's going to do/say - hopefully walk out? Wink

Thankyou Pat

 

#26: A Village Boy 7 Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 6:23 pm

A very skilful way of presenting the idea to the Staff, Patmac - eagerly waiting to see the outcome. And if I didn't say it before - the fact that Hugh was prepared to put the idea to his colleagues in the first place is an enormous measure of how far and how well he has progessed since joining the school.

Glad you enjoyed Ascot in York! I gather from the UK papers that it was enough of a success that it may be repeated next year if the renovations at Ascot itself aren't finished by then. It seems a far cry to me from the days when we had to go for 'runs' round the Knavesmire on days when it was too wet or muddy for hockey or netball, as a change from circuits of our own games fields!! (Well it *was* more than 45 years ago!!)

 

#27:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Jun 20, 2005 7:28 pm

That was terrific, thanks Pat. it's good to see that they are accepting that women can contribute as much intellectually as men.

 

#28:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 12:25 am

Fabulous, Pat, thanks. Well done Sir Julian for fighting the corner, and well done John for dealing with Cockcroft. Am intrigues to see how he'll react here!

Want to wrap Cropley in a great, big hug.

 

#29:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 1:11 am

Beautifully done!

 

#30:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 5:04 am

Excellent Pat. I look forward to reading about the recruitment process!

 

#31:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 7:41 am

Pat - over the last few days I have read this from the start of the first part. All I can say is Phew. I have enjoyed the different styles of writing you have employed and am really enjoying readng about your main characters. Hugh sounds like a very nice guy, and i love the way that one person will meet someone and then after a while they are reintroduced meeting another character - the american soldiers for a start, and to a certain extent Hilary as well. It must be so difficult writing about this time of history, however far back it is now. (Oh and if you ever go back to visit Auntie again, can I come along too?) Wink

 

#32:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 9:17 am

Well doen Sir Julian and John! Glad they've made the decision and look forward to seeing it implemented!

Thank you Pat.

 

#33:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 12:02 pm

Have just caught up on all this from the beginning of Part 7. Am so glad to see you continuing it and educating us all at the same time.

Thanks, Pat

 

#34:  Author: Emma A as guest,  PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 12:31 pm

Lovely to see this back again, Pat. I really like how the various parts have been told from differing points of view. I do wonder how the boys will react to the idea of women teachers - hope the chosen few manage to cope and are supported by the staff. I also like the brief mention of Stacie making a stir at Oxford!

It's ironic that Copley's non-combatant mother and sister were the ones killed, when his father is on active duty. I expect he would have been more prepared for the other eventuality.

Thank-you.

 

#35:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 1:28 pm

Thanks Pat

Wonder what the reaction will be to this statement.

Feel a little sorry for Cockcroft - the world around him is changing fast, and he's not able/willing to keep up.

Liz

 

#36:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 3:03 pm

Love the discussions in the staff room - they make the attitude in those days so much more clear to me. Thanks, Pat, this is a really story, and very informative!

 

#37:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 7:52 pm

Looking forward to the reaction in the Staff Room - and would have liked to see the Study scene with John and Cockcroft.... Twisted Evil

 

#38:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 10:00 pm

Lesley, study scenes are always behind closed doors, aren't they?



There was a sharp intake of breath from some of the staff, though Charles, Paul, Hugh and George were only just keeping straight faces.

“We are, for the duration at least, dissolving some of the traditional distinctions between Chaucer House and the Senior School. By taking on suitably qualified women to help with the lower forms, we will be able to release some of you to help at Polgarth House.

We have always prided ourselves at Polgarth in being in the forefront of progress and we were the first school of our type to prepare pupils for a career in engineering and, more recently, electrical engineering. I regard this as a positive step, keeping pace with the times.”

Sir Julian stood up again.

“We are looking ahead to the future. Over the last few years, as staff have left to go into the forces, we have gradually reduced our intake of boys at all levels. We used to have over 120 boys in Chaucer House and twice that in the Senior School. Even with reduced numbers we are unable to accept most requests where boys will need individual tuition. We charge a premium in fees for the individual attention we can give in most cases and, as a result of smaller numbers, we are only just paying out way. We have always been able to offer a few free places or charge reduced fees for boys who need it. From September, we shall be unable to do that unless we can bring our numbers up..

We are committed to offering any staff who joined up for the services, their jobs at the end of the war. That is the law, even if we did not feel a moral obligation to do so. If we are to keep that promise, we have to cope without them now and still be able to take them back, in addition to staff we take on in the meantime. Taking on new teachers as a temporary measure, which we can do by law is not a good option. If we find good people, we want to keep them.”

He paused and a murmur arose as various staff members made comments to their neighbours. When he considered that they had taken in what he had to say, he began to speak again and silence fell instantly. Hugh realised why this man was in an influential position. He commanded attention without so much as raising his voice.

“You will have time for discussion a little later but let me tell you the rest. The Governors are in agreement that we should start moving now to ensure the post war future of the school. There will be an increase in the need for engineers and scientists, of all kinds. State schools are sure to pick up on this and we cannot be left behind. We will be one jump ahead of most of the other Public Schools who still seem to regard the traditional professions as the only options.

If we can build the school to a level where we have sufficient resources to take all the boys who apply and can change so we offer what they need, the school will continue to thrive. The alternative, put bluntly, is a decline and eventual demise of the school. There will be changes after the war which will almost certainly hit schools of our type. Wars always bring technological advance and this one is no exception. That is where the future is.”

He sat down and John stood up. Everyone had now realised the seriousness of the situation. The idea that the school might not survive the crisis had finally hit home.

Hugh looked round and saw some shocked faces. He realised that, for many of the Staff, the war had been more of an annoyance than a personal experience. They had lost friends, old boys and, in some cases, family but most of them had never experienced the realities of war face to face. The old round, term after term, had slipped by but the changes this war was bringing to the country were not immediate to them. He doubted if most had seen bomb damage except in a newspaper and even less had experienced an air raid.

No doubt they had been as worried as anyone in the early days when an invasion seemed a probability. Then, as the war dragged on, and this threat faded they had put their worries aside.

Sheltered by the remoteness of the School and, to a large extent only marginally affected by rationing because of the self sufficiency in dairy produce, meat and vegetables, most of the long serving staff had no idea of the problems faced in the towns and cities.

No, he was being unfair! They were too tired to think of any problems but their own. They were working long hours and not getting days off. They had tried their very best to uphold the standards of the school and were now realising that their efforts might be in vain. No wonder they looked shocked.

“We have contacted the agencies and received some positive responses. Over the next few weeks, we will be interviewing candidates for positions teaching right through Chaucer House in all subjects. If we can manage to find at least five suitable women, we will be reorganising teaching so that we can release some of the present staff to help in the Senior School. If we can secure the right people for the Summer Term we will be able to have a normal intake in September right through the school and get back to our correct numbers.

We plan to open up the Lodge House for their accommodation. There are three good size bedrooms, two of which will be partitioned to give them a room each and, if we can manage to get another bath from somewhere (they are apparently like gold dust!) we will put in a second bathroom. If we end up with more women in the future, we will convert some of the downstairs rooms to bedrooms. After that, we will have to think again.

If we can get back to our pre-war intake, the Governors have decided that, as soon possible, the stable block at Polgarth House will be converted to form new labs for Engineering and Science. We will also have a new building at Chaucer House. It will house a more useful Library and an up to date Science Lab. The present library will be converted into smaller rooms for individual tuition and the current Science room will be converted into a standard classroom to allow us to increase our intake at the younger end of the school”

“We may have to put up temporary buildings at first down here as there are bound to be restrictions on building. When we have finished this stage of development, “ Sir Julian took up the narrative, “We plan further extensions to accommodate one hundred and fifty boys in total here and two hundred and fifty in the Senior School. These plans will ensure we have jobs available for all returning servicemen who wish to come back without dismissing staff we take on now. I’m sure you will agree that we will attract a better standard of applicant with the offer of a permanent position.

I have just one more announcement. The bulk of the initial changes will be at Chaucer House. Those of you who are asked to divide your time between Chaucer House and the Senior School are familiar with our ways. Taking on at least five members of staff at once in the Junior School is a big challenge and will take a lot of organising. We have decided to institute a new post, that of Deputy Head of Junior School. The Deputy Head will be Charles Evans.”

There was a stunned silence and then the majority of staff erupted in cheers, slapping Charles on the back and crowding round to shake his hand. Only a few people noticed the couple of disgruntled faces among the staff. Cockcroft was no surprise but Hugh was dismayed to see Arthur O’Sullivan looking distinctly down in the mouth.

John had obviously noticed too for he muttered a quick aside to Sir Julian who reached behind his chair and pulled out two bottles of Single Malt.

“Not black market!” he commented. “There was more whisky in my father’s cellar when he died than I’ll get through in a lifetime. I find it makes me welcome anywhere these days and I’d rather it went to a good cause than go to waste! I gather that, despite some speculation as to the source, you have already benefited from my father’s foresight.”

There was a general laugh and, despite there not being enough glasses for the numbers present, soon everyone had a measure, even if some were holding cups or mugs.

Sir Julian raised his glass. “To the future!” he declared, but Hugh noticed his shrewd eyes were watching to see who responded whole heartedly.

The meeting split up into small groups, discussing the plans and arguing, in some cases. John and Sir Julian moved from group to group, answering questions, clarifying, listening. Hugh sat back and watched. He knew where he stood on the matter and enjoying watching the interplay. Jack, who was sitting next to him, spoke quietly, catching his attention.

“Very progressive.” He said with a smile. “It’s nice to be in on the beginning of something like this. To think I expected a minor Public School in Yorkshire to be stuffy and boring!”

“It is, isn’t it.” Hugh returned, equally quietly. “I felt the same last term. My biggest dread was that everyone would just heave a sigh of relief after the war and slip back into the old attitudes.”

“Anyone who tries that is in for a shock. I can’t see the men or women who’ve fought this war coming home and slipping back into their old lives easily. There’s bound to be change. Do you know what Sir Julian does? He impresses me.”

“No idea. Except that he is obviously someone at the heart of things. He called in last term, complete with an army driver. We had trouble with a boy who was bullying. All John would say after he’d been was that he had learned the boy’s father was a Fascist. I think there was more to it than that. All I know is that he’s on the side of the reformers!”

At that moment, Nancy Hulton caught Jack’s eye and he excused himself and went across, leaving Hugh to continue watching the rest of the staff. He was watching Paul talking to an unhappy looking Arthur when someone sat down beside him. Looking round he saw Sir Julian smiling at him, his eyes twinkling.

“Are you enjoying the hornet’s nest, you’ve stirred up?” he murmured.

Hugh grinned back. “To be honest, Yes. I’m glad you were here to present it, though. You’ve picked up a small suggestion and run with it a lot farther than I had thought. Was it difficult to get the other Governors to agree.”

“Carrot and stick. If you can find the right carrot and the right stick, people may bluster but they can’t help themselves!”

Hugh looked across to where Cockcroft and Arthur were now talking, agitatedly, their heads close together.

“Always?”

Sir Julian’s gaze followed his.

“We’re none of us infallible.” He said and, with a grimace, left Hugh and crossed the room to insert himself into the conversation.

When Sir Julian and John judged that there had been enough talk, they made their way back to the fireplace and stood before it. The talk died down and the Staff sat down again in silence, looking at the two men.

“I’ll be off early tomorrow morning.” Said Sir Julian. “I know this is a big change and some of you have reservations but, like it or not, this is the future. Change is uncomfortable at times but there is no way of avoiding it. I know you will all support John and Charles in making a success of this.”

The meeting broke up and the staff gradually left the room. Hugh stayed to help Matron and Miss Hulton clear the glasses and mugs. When they objected, he insisted.

“Why not?” he asked. “We need to change at this level, too. Perhaps someday, you’ll have to insist on helping.”

“Unlikely in my lifetime!” snorted Matron.

Sir Julian had heard this exchange and, as he left the room, he caught Hugh’s eye and winked.

 

#39:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 10:09 pm

Thanks Pat, lovely Staff room scenes - I always like them best.

 

#40:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 10:15 pm

*Sighs with contentment*

Thanks Pat

 

#41:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 10:18 pm

Thanks Pat

Sir Julian is very wise

I hope there isn't trouble from Cockcroft and Arthur.

Liz

 

#42:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 10:33 pm

Love that Pat, staffroom scenes are always good.

I wonder how the changes will go down with the boys.

 

#43:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Tue Jun 21, 2005 11:37 pm

I know that its not the most important part, but I love the ending to that last section. I guess it shows both Hugh and Sir Julian as they are. A great peice of writing, thanks

 

#44:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 3:28 am

I'm also impressed by Sir Julian. Imagine, a coherent plan!

It'll be interesting to see how the women fit in. I like the idea of having five come at once -- much easier than being the token! For the new women, anyhow. (Do I sound jealous?) Maybe not for the more threatened men, though.

 

#45:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 4:17 am

patmac wrote:


Hugh looked across to where Cockcroft and Arthur were now talking, agitatedly, their heads close together.




Uh oh. I smell a conspiracy and ructions ahead.

 

#46:  Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 7:36 am

Fabulous as ever, Pat - that was a wonderful long post. Polgarth sounds even more like just the right place for Reg.

Thank-you.

 

#47:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 11:38 am

I am glad this is back! I do like the fact that the staff are not just thinking in the short term but plan to keep their new staff permanently.

 

#48:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 1:49 pm

Far-sighted, clear-headed policies. Thanks Pat.

 

#49:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 6:13 pm

My dear Dorothy,

It gives me such a thrill to be able to write ‘my dear’. It was lovely to see you last weekend. I miss you more each time I come away and am longing for the day we are together all the time. Don’t worry! I won’t hurry you. I want you to finish your course and spend some time teaching. You deserve your chance to do that. I will wait as long as it takes.

This week has seen a succession of women, some obviously straight from college and some older, appearing for interviews. John and Charles interviewed them together and they were shown round the school by Nancy Hulton.

John thought they would open up more to her and they really do have to fit in. He told her not to gloss over the difficulties. He does make me laugh sometimes with his turns of phrase. He said to her “We need strong women, not ones who will turn into spineless jelly fish at the first problem.”

The image is irresistible. There was a woman in her fifties who would have certainly melted to jelly within a week. She happened to come through the hall as the Third Form were surging out to morning break and, as Nancy put it, she ‘twittered’ with alarm.

She wasn’t the worst. There was a young girl, wearing rather a lot of make up and with the most obviously peroxide hair, who quite blatantly asked Nancy which of the masters was eligible, topped this off with asking if John was married and exclaiming that the boys were “little angels”. We all hooted when Nancy told us.

There were some promising applicants, though. One young woman had lost her fiancé and, having taught in a Day Prep School, was looking for a new start. She was quite frank about it, and said that teaching was the only thing that had kept her going over the past year. I can understand that. I felt like that till I met you.

The most surprising was someone about to graduate from Oxford. Although she could not start till the Autumn Term, John had decided she was rather too good to miss. Charles had doubts. He thought she was overqualified and would have problems bringing herself down to the Junior level. John wanted to see her though as she was the only person with a Classical background who applied.

I sat next to her at dinner and I liked her. She is a really no nonsense type. I liked the way she said she wanted to see if she could pass on her love of Classics to a few other people and also to put something back into society for the education she has had. I think she will go back to Oxford eventually. She’s certainly capable of doing a PhD from what I saw of her but she’ll be an asset if she comes. She was a prefect at her old school and couldn’t see any problems in keeping order, in fact she told us some stories of what their younger girls got up to that had us in stitches.

Funny thing is, she reminded me of Hilary and you in a strange way. Not that she looks like either of you. It was more just something in the way she spoke. I can’t quite put my finger on it. She’d be about your age, I think, perhaps a little older.

I have to finish now or I’ll miss the post. I’m counting the days till I see you again.

All my love

Hugh

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

My darling Hugh,

It was lovely to get your letter and I had a good laugh at the predatory blonde! She’d better not make eyes at you or I’ll be up there like a shot.

It’s a very exciting thought that you are breaking such new ground up at Polgarth and I’m so proud that it was your idea. Clever you! What did your Oxford graduate look like? I imagine her with scraped back hair and little glasses on the end of her nose, but I’m probably wrong.

Mum and I have been talking about things and I’m thinking of applying to Leeds to finish my training. What do you think?

Who knows how long the war will last and it means I can get back to college sooner. I don’t feel I can leave Mum alone till Dad gets back. She’d find it hard to cope with the business and the worry and I feel if I go away, I’m tempting fate and something will go wrong. Am I being silly?

All my friends have left college now anyway so going back wouldn’t be the same. This way, I’ll still be at home for her and can help a bit in the shop, at least on Saturdays. It wouldn’t have been possible but one of the girls who used to work for us has been invalided out of the ATS. There was an accident and she broke her leg. For some reason it didn’t set straight so now she limps. She was so pleased we could offer her a job again. I don’t think Mum could have coped with training a new assistant but Mavis has fitted right back in.

My turn to run to catch the post now. I just have time to say I love you and miss you so much.

All my love

Dorothy

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

My Darling,

Your letter came just this morning and I had to wait till break to read it. Never has a lesson gone so slowly.

Your idea of going to Leeds sounds a really good one. I suppose you would start in September and I can’t honestly see the war being over by then so it would put you ahead. I am sorry about Mavis and her bad leg but I’m feeling selfishly glad that her misfortune gives you this opportunity.

More news from here. Mrs Carter accepted the offer of part time teaching with enthusiasm and, once again, the timetable has been changed as she took over Junior History from Second to Third forms so I could take the Fourth forms from John. I think I enjoy teaching the older boys better than the little ones. Most of the staff are feeling more positive now that the end of the staff shortage seemed in sight and some are hoping they will get a chance to teach at the Senior School as well. I don’t expect I will as I’m so new. The only people still disgruntled are Cockcroft and O’Sullivan.

Cockcroft resents Charles’ position as Deputy. It’s nothing new as he has resented John being Head. Understandable, really. He’s in his fifties and he’s not likely to get further promotion now. Between you and me, he’s not cut out for promotion anyway.

Charles says it’s not a problem. He said the man is such a pain, he’d be worried if he liked him. Cockcroft was always miserable, but he is unsettling Arthur. All this talk of expanding engineering teaching is making Arthur feel insecure. I wonder if he thinks this makes woodwork sound rather trivial. He’s a bit long in the tooth to start retraining now and he loves what he does.

I do hope John can sort it. Arthur’s really good with the boys and you’d be amazed at what they make. We’ve got really good models of aircraft strung from the ceiling in the Fourth Form common room. The detail is really good. The latest new thing is whittling. I’d never heard of it but young Entwistle learned it from an old man in his village. He makes really lifelike animals and birds. He tells me that the old man’s son has a stall on Leeds Market and takes them to sell there. We’ll have to look for it next time we are there.

I wish I could see you and hold you. I have the photo you gave me on my nightstand and I kiss you every night. I’m counting the days till Easter now when I shall see you again.

All my love to my precious darling

Your own Hugh


~ ~ ~ ~ ~

 

#50:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 6:17 pm

lovely - thanks pat Smile

 

#51:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 6:22 pm

Awww, what lovely letters - so good to see them both so obviously in love.

Hmmm, so who is the Oxford grad then? Are we going to see more of them? Trying to remember thoses of similar age to Dorothy - failing! Rolling Eyes

Thanks Pat.

 

#52:  Author: Trinka,  PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 6:52 pm

Eustacia?


Just a thought. And how fun!!!

 

#53:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 6:59 pm

I wonder if it is Stacie!

Thanks Pat, lovely insight into both Hugh's and Dorothy's feelings

 

#54: A Village Boy Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 7:24 pm

Lovely letters, Patmac, and it's good to see the new ideas for Polgarth being put into shape, too.

My money is also on Stacie as the Oxford graduate - she certainly proved herself a good teacher when she helped out in one of the later Chalet books - think it was Challenge, but I'm too lazy to go downstairs and look!

More soon, please.

 

#55:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 8:42 pm

Thanks Pat

I'm guessing Stacie is the Oxford graduate as well.

Those were lovely letters - romantic but with practical news in as well. Heart Smile

Liz

 

#56:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 22, 2005 9:29 pm

Thanks Pat, love the description of the different prospective teachers. I thought of Stacie as well when I was reading it.

 

#57:  Author: Alice, Location: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 8:36 am

I immediately thought of Stacie as the Oxford graduate. Lovely letters between Hugh and Dorothy.

 

#58:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 9:34 am

Lovely letters! Thank you Pat. I was also thinking Stacie bt have no idea if the ages fit...

 

#59:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 2:12 pm

That was wonderful, Pat, thank you. Also thought of Stacie.

 

#60:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 10:09 pm

Eustacia? Who is she? Wink



By the end of March, everything was coming together. Five women were engaged to join the staff at the start of the Summer Term and the Classics graduate from Oxford would join them in September. A second hand bath had been acquired from someone in the village where it had been languishing in an outhouse for years, and the Lodge House had been prepared for occupation. The timetable had been revised, yet again, and everything was as near ready as it could be.

The older boys at Chaucer House had caught on very quickly that something was in the wind. As Charles put it, “If you don’t want them to know something, don’t even think about it.” There had been some wild speculation about all the women appearing in the school, especially as most of them stayed for supper and overnight. Fortunately, when nothing happened immediately the talk died down.

When Mrs Carter started teaching, her presence was accepted without comment and John was relieved at this. To make an announcement that they would have women staff seemed to point this out as a strange happening and he felt that the less fuss made the better.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The staff had not lost sight of Copley’s loss. He had become increasingly isolated, despite all efforts to help him. He would not talk about what had happened to anyone and it was causing concern in the staff room. Matron was worried because he wasn’t eating and threatened to bring the matter to a head.

“I know we think he should work through this naturally and choose who he speaks to but he’s not talking to anyone and he’s altogether too wound up. In any case, I can’t ignore the fact that he’s not eating. I don’t think he’s sleeping well either. I look in on him most nights and, although he has his eyes shut, I can tell he’s not asleep. If I think it is seriously harming his health, I’ll take him into the San. I don’t like dosing the boys but he can’t go on like this and at least I can make him eat and see to it that he sleeps.”

The inseparables were also uncomfortably aware that Copley was struggling with the loss of his Mother and sister. They were doing their best but he didn’t respond to any overtures and the strain was beginning to make them fractious.

“I wish he would buck up!” exclaimed Macdonald one morning when Copley wasn’t with them. ” I feel as if I’m walking on eggshells. He can’t see a joke any more.”

“Try and put yourself in his shoes! You don’t know what you’re talking about, you oaf.”

The other three stared at Reg in amazement. He rarely disagreed with anyone and this seemed most uncharacteristic from the least fiery of the five.

“What’s got you’re goat?” Scottie fired back.

“Just what I said. You’re talking out of your backside. Copley’s not going to get over it any time soon. I don’t think you’re much of a friend to talk like that.”

MacDonald had stalked off, feeling abused and on his dignity, refusing to speak to the others and Reg had withdrawn into a distance which no one could reach. Hanson and Dixon stuck together but looked so miserable that everyone avoided them.

Word quickly got round that there was a rift between the five boys. The staff were concerned. No one knew what had happened but it very quickly had an effect on their work. Copley had already been falling behind but now all five boys were upset and their usual enthusiasm in lessons was lacking.

“I hadn’t quite realised how much those five set the pace for the form!” lamented Hugh one evening as he finished marking essays. “MacDonald is surly, Entwistle has just gone into a shell and Hanson and Dixon look as if they’ve lost a guinea and found sixpence! I know we agreed to give Copley space to choose who he talks to, but the whole form is being affected. There isn’t a piece of work here worth reading.”

“It’s the same in Maths. It’s almost as if they are not listening. They’re not up to mischief, just miserable. If they don’t pull their socks up, we’ll have none of that form ready for Senior School in September.” George put his gripe in.

Charles looked up. “There’s some big rift there. I think MacDonald and Entwistle have fallen out over something and it’s affecting the other two. Copley, I can’t get through to yet. He’s bottling up his feelings too much.

We’ll just have to watch for our chance to step in. We can’t haul them in and demand to know what’s wrong. They’d just clam up and we could make things worse. I think you’ve got more chance with them than anyone, Hugh. That crowd have all taken a shine to you.”

“Me? I haven’t a clue how to go about it. If I get an opening I’ll try, of course, but I can’t imagine how well I’ll cope.” Hugh looked worried but Charles was adamant.

“If you can’t deal with it, then no one can. They trust you in a way they don’t trust anyone else.”

Hugh went off to bed feeling rather inadequate. He had no idea how he could help the inseparables, and Copley in particular. He lay awake a long while thinking about it and woke the next morning with no inspiration. And then the matter was taken out of his hands.

 

#61:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 10:19 pm

Thanks Pat

I think Reg was right, but it's a shame it's caused a rift between the boys.

*wibbling about what might happen next*

Liz

 

#62:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 10:22 pm

Did I spy a little cliff there? Laughing

Thanks Pat - feel sorry for Copley and the rest of the five.

 

#63:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 11:50 pm

Of course, Reg would understand how Copley is grieving; he receives so much from the Maynards, that I tend to forget how much he had lost in the first place. Hugs for all of them.

 

#64:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 2:56 am

Attempts to see "taken out of his hands" cliff as a promise (kids straightening things out between themselves?) rather than a threat....

Very realistic scene, Pat.

 

#65:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 8:18 am

Thank you Pat. Sad to see the boys arguing like this hope that the little cliff/promise is good rather than ominous...

 

#66:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 8:28 am

*wonders about how the matter is 'taken out of his hands' before deciding to shelve it for the moment*. A wonderful peice of writing Pat. The fall out is so realistic, and the effect it has had on the rest of the class as well.

 

#67:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 8:55 am

Love this - ((Copley)) ((Reg)) ((the others)) Sad
Love the Matron not liking to dose the boys! Laughing
*Snuggles Hugh*
So pleased it looks like the boys are going to accept women teachers however I wouldn't be surprised if some of them don't... Neutral
*wibbles about what's going to happen*

Last edited by Mia on Fri Jun 24, 2005 9:21 am; edited 1 time in total

 

#68:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 9:20 am

Just caught up on a whole heap of this - thanks so much Pat, it's wonderful.

Those letters were soooooo lovely. Am joining the ranks of those who think the Oxford Grad is Stacie.

So sad that the boys have fallen out, but so realistic. Hope it doesn't take anything too extreme to bring them close again.

Like Mia, I had a chuckle at Matron not liking to dose them! Laughing

 

#69:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 11:55 am

Thanks, Pat. I hope that Hugh has his thinking cap on, to get him off the cliff you've left him (and us) on.

 

#70:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 5:47 pm

It was Saturday morning and lessons had just finished for the weekend. Saturday lunch was always sandwiches with soup available in the winter. The boys straggled in and helped themselves as they finished lessons and some had prep to finish first so came even later. Reg arrived just as Copley, looking heavy eyed and pale was leaving. He seemed not to notice Reg as he came in and Reg watched him walk past, his shoulders hunched and his head down, looking neither to right or left.

After a brief struggle between his hunger and his concern for his friend, Reg followed him to the cloakroom where a scrum of boys enabled Reg stay out of sight. He donned his coat and outdoor shoes and followed the sad figure out of the front door. Keeping well back, he followed Copley as he turned and made for the woods at the perimeter of the lawn. Not pausing, Copley disappeared among the trees and Reg ran to follow him. He heard the shuffle of the dried leaves ahead of him and followed, ignoring the fact that the woods were out of bounds.

Reg trod carefully, trying to avoid dried twigs and branches which could have given him away and encouraged by the occasional glimpse of Copley in the distance. He had no idea what he would do when he caught up but he seemed drawn on. Then the footsteps stopped and silence fell. Reg stopped, and listened. The footsteps did not restart and he moved quietly forward towards where he thought they led but could not find a trace of Copley.

He was now in a part of the woods he did not know, well off the track which led to the edge and the old drove road leading down to the lane. He hesitated, unsure of what to do next.

He was on the point of returning the way he had come, hoping no one in authority would see him emerging from the woods when he remembered going into the woods with Sybil and seeing the hideaway she had retreated to when life became too much to cope with.

He was standing in a small clearing, overgrown with brambles at the edges and at one side, ivy and old man’s beard hung down from a Hawthorn tree. Reg hesitated and thought for a minute. Copley had to be somewhere near. He would have been really cross if anyone had found him when he hid in the old shed at home. He only went there when he was really upset and, from what Sybil had said, she had felt the same about her den in the woods.

This was different though. Sybil still had her parents, even if she had been at odds with them. With a flash of insight, he realised that Copley’s problems were worse than he had ever faced. He didn’t even remember his mother and he had got Auntie. Copley was on his own. His father possibly in danger and no one near to care.

He took a deep breath and knelt down where he thought there should be an opening. Pulling aside the fronds, he peered inside and saw Copley, sitting hunched up, dry eyed and deliberately sticking a large pin into his arm.

 

#71:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 6:17 pm

Oh how sad! Crying or Very sad

*hoping Reg can help, or will at least tell someone in authority*

Thanks Pat.

 

#72:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 6:52 pm

Oh, poor lad. Crying or Very sad Hope Reg can help.

 

#73:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 7:17 pm

Thanks Pat = Hope copley can open up to Reg, and that Reg is able to offer his help sensitivly

 

#74:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! PostPosted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 9:47 pm

Crying or Very sad ((((((Copley))))))) Poor kid

 

#75:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Jun 24, 2005 10:02 pm

The poor boy. Crying or Very sad Hope that they can all work through this.



ETA, since there isn't a link to the thread in this forum, here is the relevant entry from the COT helplines thread for anyone who wants to see it.
BRISTOL CRISIS CENTRE
Support and help for those who self-harm.
0117 925 1119 (Fri, Sat 9pm to 12:30am, Sun 6pm to 9pm)
http://www.users.zetnet.co.uk/BCSW

 

#76:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 12:02 am

Oh poor baby (((Copley)))
I do hope Reg can help... Crying or Very sad
I have tears in my eyes

 

#77:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 9:56 am

Poor Copley

I hope this hasn't been going on for long. I hope Reg can help him.

Thanks Pat

Liz

 

#78:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 4:50 pm

Thank you Caroline for putting the link to the helpline in. I'm sorry if that was upsetting for anyone but I couldn't write it any other way, though I tried. I think Copley is reminding me rather too much of a boy I knew in a similar situation.


He seemed in a daze and didn’t notice the movement of the ivy. Reg gasped and Copley looked up, his eyes strangely unfocused.

When he saw Reg, gazing in horror at him, he cried out “Go away. I don’t want you here! This is my place. Go away!”

Reg gulped and wriggled farther into through the fronds. “I can’t leave you. I can’t just go away! Copley! Please! You’re my friend. I can’t just go away and pretend I didn’t see you! Please let me help.”

Seeing Reg on the edge of tears, Copley pulled down his sleeve and gestured to him to come inside. He crawled in and pulled the ivy down to cover the entrance and sat opposite Copley, looking very worried.

There was silence for a moment and then Reg spoke, hesitantly.

“Does it help?”

“Does what help?”

“You know. What you were doing.”

“It stops me crying and making a fuss. I can’t talk about it. No one understands.”

“Try me.”

“I can’t.”

“Please try. I might understand. I don’t remember my mum but I dream about her sometimes. Not so much now but I used to wake up crying.”

Reg could not think of anything more to say. He just sat, not looking at his friend but willing him to speak. There was absolute quiet for several minutes and Reg was getting desperate when Copley suddenly started talking, very quietly at first and Reg had to strain to hear him..

“When I got to Granddad’s, he wouldn’t tell me how it happened. He said I shouldn’t ask so many questions. I was frightened. He looked so old.

Grandma was in bed. She’s my Mum’s mother and she has something wrong with her heart. The doctor kept coming in to see her. They said she mustn’t be upset any more and wouldn’t let me ask her anything. She’d have told me, I know, but they wouldn’t let me ask her.

They wouldn’t tell me how it happened.” He said again. “It was days and days till Dad got home. I hadn’t seen him for about three years. He didn’t recognise me. I knew it was him but he looked older, not the same. At first, he was upset as well. He cried and my Granddad kept telling him to pull himself together.”

“Did you go to the funeral?”

“Yes. Granddad said I was too young but Dad said if I was old enough to want to go, I should be allowed. It was horrid but I’m glad I went. It rained and it was cold.

Dad held my hand and he squeezed it so hard when they put Mum’s coffin in the ground that it hurt. That seemed to help. My sister’s coffin was tiny. She was only four.

Stupid bomb!” He burst into noisy tears, sobs racking his body as he let out his grief for the first time.

Reg shuffled round the small space and, awkwardly put an arm round his shoulder, feeling helpless.

Eventually, the sobs died down and Copley reached in his pocket for his hankie. Reg waited till he was a little calmer and, hesitantly began to speak.

“I was seven when my Dad died and I only remember bits about him dying. My Dad’s sister was looking after us after my Mum died. I don’t think she liked me much. Mum died when I was born. After Dad died, she wrote to Auntie Bertha, she’s my Mum’s Auntie so she’s really my great aunt, and said if she couldn’t take me, she’d send me to an orphanage. I didn’t know anything about it. Just one Saturday she packed my things, told me I was going to live with Auntie Bertha and took me to the Market Square and handed me over. I remember being frightened and ever so miserable.

I had a hidey hole too. It was an old broken down shed and I climbed into the rafters and hid there when I was upset.

I know it’s not the same, but I do remember feeling scared that everyone else would die. Auntie Bertha seemed old then. I was only little.”

He hesitated. “Is that part of it. Your Dad going back to the war?”

“Yes, I suppose so. What if anything happens to him? He doesn’t know when he’ll be back, he’s on a ship somewhere.” The tears flowed again and Reg didn’t know what to do or say. He fished in his pocket and passed over his grubby hanky.

When the storm had passed, Reg removed his arm from round Copley’s shoulder to ease the cramps which were making it tremble.

“Could you talk to anyone else?” he asked. “I mean a grown up. No, I won’t tell anyone about your den or what you were doing” he added hastily as Copley turned to him, terror in his eyes. “I just don’t know what to do to help.”

“Who?” said Copley, bitterly. “Who would understand? Anyway, Granddad says it’s girlish to make a fuss.”

“That’s rot! You’re not making a fuss. You’ve every right to be upset. Mr Douglas would understand. I heard Mr Evans telling Mr Cready. I couldn’t help overhearing. Mr Douglas’s Mum was killed in an air raid. He hasn’t got anyone at all now and he’s got those awful scars. He used to look sad all the time when he first came. He’s cheered up now most of the time but I’m sure he will understand.”

“I’ll think about it.” Copley was still dubious.

“We have to get back. It must be horribly late and we’ll be in real trouble if anyone misses us. They’ll ask where we’ve been. Come on.”

He crawled out of the den and waited for Copley to join him. They made their way through the wood and managed to get to the school without being seen and Copley sat in a corner with a book till supper, while Reg tried to act normally with the others.

At supper, Reg went in with Copley and noticed that his friend ate rather more than he had done for a while, though he still looked heavy eyed. After supper, Copley said he had a headache and went off to bed.

Reg was troubled and went off to his own hidey hole, behind the farthest bookshelves in the library to think it through. He had been shocked and frightened by the sight of Copley sticking a pin into himself.

He had promised he wouldn’t tell. His tummy rumbled and he felt a bit dizzy and sick.

Suddenly he heard the door open and footsteps crossed the room. The curtains swished as they were closed and then the footsteps moved back towards the door. Suddenly the lights came on. Reg realised that he recognised the footsteps. Only one master limped like that.

He peeped round the corner of the shelves and saw that Mr Douglas was sitting in a chair looking straight at him.

“Come on out, Entwistle. I want to talk to you.”

 

#79:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 5:05 pm

Hope Hugh can help Reg. Crying or Very sad

And Copley's Grandfather deserves to be shot! Poor lad, told he shouldn't grieve. Mad

 

#80:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 5:15 pm

I'd like to give Grandad a good smacking.

Thanks for that, Pat. Unfortunately, that sort of attitude was rife during the War.

 

#81:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 5:56 pm

This is terribly sad, I feel so sorry for Copley and his father and Reg too, he seems so sensible that you forget that he's only a young boy.

I expect the Granddad is only trying to suppress his own grief and is resorting to the 'stiff upper lip' behaviour.

Crying or Very sad Thanks Pat for lovely update

 

#82:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 7:55 pm

*agrees with Mia about Copley's Grandad.* Very much a generational thing, the British stiff upper lip in these circumstances - I'm sure he's doing what he thinks is best. I'd imagine he fought in WW1 so had seen some pretty horrendous things in his time, so his attitude is bound to be different, even for his own daughter/daughter -in-law (sorry, being lazy and can't remember which he is - I presume he's the maternal grandfather?). Plus he has a very sick wife, and is probably terrified the shock will push her over the edge. I just feel so sorry for all of them. There's just no do's or don'ts when it comes to death - everybody handles it in such different ways. This is a very vivid illustration of how the destrution caused by the war touched people's lives in so many different ways, and occasionally drove families apart. Crying or Very sad

I'm so glad Reg got Copley to open up to him, and even more glad that Hugh just found Reg in the library. Here's hoping Hugh can help.

Thanks Pat. Don't know if I'm reading too much into it all with my waffling on above, but you draw your characters so vividly, even the minor ones, that I can't help getting involved! Embarassed

 

#83:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Jun 25, 2005 8:13 pm

Thanks Pat, that was very well done. Feel so sorry for the while family.

 

#84:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 4:14 am

Poor Copley. I'm glad Reg was able to get through a little -- and have high hopes for Hugh. Interesting that Hugh knows about Reg's hidey hole....

 

#85:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 10:17 am

Thanks Pat

I'm glad Reg was able to help Copley. I hope he can now talk to Hugh without breaking his promise.

Liz

 

#86:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 1:23 pm

So glad that Reg followed and got him to talk

Sadly there are still people who think children shouldn't be told what has happened when someone dies, especially if it was a traumatic death

Hope that Hugh can get Reg to talk, and even more importantly can listen to what Reg isn't saying and put the pieces together from that

Thankyou Pat

 

#87:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 4:48 pm

Reg came out and Mr Douglas gestured to the chair beside him.

“I saw you turn and leave after Copley at lunch time, without having any lunch and neither of you appeared for tea. By the fact that you appeared together for supper and Copley ate his but you didn’t, I guess something happened this afternoon. I also saw Copley go up to bed early. I popped in on him and he owned to a headache so I asked Matron to give him an aspirin without asking any questions.”

He held up his hand to stall Reg’s denial.

“I’m not asking you to betray confidences. I’m not asking where you went or what happened. You don’t need to break any promises. We’re all worried about Copley and about the other four of your crowd. Copley won’t say anything to any of us. He just insists he’s all right when we ask, when he’s obviously not. His father said he hadn’t cried once after his mother and sister were killed and he was worried too. If he doesn’t let go soon, he could be ill, so it’s important I find out if there’s anyway I can help. I’m hoping you can give me a clue.” He paused and waited.

“I’ve got to think for a minute. I haven’t sorted it out in my head yet.” Responding to Hugh’s matter of fact manner, Reg replied in kind.

“Take as long as you need. I’ll go and fetch a cup of tea for both of us and a sandwich for you, then we don’t need to hurry.”

Hugh left the room and called in at the staff room on his way to the kitchen. Spotting Charles, talking to Paul by the fire, he went over.

“I’ve got Entwistle in the library. I think he’s broken through Copley’s calm. Copley’s gone to bed with a headache. Matron knows so you can leave him to her. I don’t know how long it will take to sort but I’m keeping him till I’m satisfied that he’s all right and I’ve found out anything I can to help Copley. He may be late to bed.”

He then went to the kitchen and returned with two steaming mugs and a rather thickly cut sandwich. Placing the tray on the table by the chairs, he went across to the door and turned the key in the lock.

“I don’t suppose anyone else will come here tonight but I wouldn’t want someone bursting in on us. Come on, eat up. I’m sorry the bread is cut a bit wonky but I’m no good at cutting bread.”

Reg smiled. “Neither am I. It looks just as if I’d made it myself.”

Reg took a sip of his tea and then tucked into the sandwich. Hugh leaned back in his chair and forced himself to look relaxed sipping his tea while not looking directly at Reg.

When Reg had finished, he picked up his tea again and taking a long drink, put the mug carefully on the table and looked at Hugh.

Hugh put his mug down and looked directly at the lanky youth opposite, preparing himself to listen very carefully.

“I can’t tell you where we went or much about what happened.” Reg began, slowly, obviously choosing his words carefully.

“Understood.”

“Will you keep what I tell you secret? Copley would hate it if he knew I’d told anyone anything. He might hate me too and that would be awful.”

Hugh thought for a moment. “I can promise that I won’t let Copley know you’ve told me anything. If I can’t help Copley, I may have to pass on what you tell me to Mr Wheeler to see if he can handle it.

Mr Evans seems to think I would be the best person to deal with Copley’s problem and I promised I would try if I got a chance. That’s why I was watching Copley and saw you follow him.”

“I think you can help him. I told him so today.” Reg replied, surprising Hugh.

“Why do you think I can help?”

Reg looked embarrassed. “I heard something.”

“What?”

“I wasn’t eavesdropping but I heard someone say you’re mother was killed in an air raid.”

“Ah, I see. Yes, it’s true.”

There was silence for a few moments and then Reg began to speak.

“His grandparents, where he went after his mother and sister were killed are his mother’s mum and dad. He said his Granddad wouldn’t tell him how it happened. He told him not to ask questions. He reckons his Grandma would have told him but she was in bed with a bad heart and he wasn’t allowed to ask her anything. He told me it was days and days before his Dad got home.”

Reg stopped and swallowed.

“When his Dad came, he didn’t recognise Copley. He hadn’t seen him for three years. His Dad cried and his Granddad told him to pull himself together.”

He looked at Hugh very seriously.

“You know, I feel sorry for his Granddad. He was hurting inside and he couldn’t cry, I suppose. Copley’s Grandma was quite ill I think, ‘cos Copley said the Doctor kept coming round. He must have been worried about her. He probably needed someone to help him and there wasn’t anyone. Then when Mr Copley came home, he was upset as well.

My Auntie is like that. I don’t think she’s ever had anyone to really talk to since Uncle Bert died and that was ever so long ago, before I was born even.

When anything happens, she gets all brisk and keeps busy. She takes all the mats out and beats them, whether they need it or not.”

Hugh nodded. “I know what you mean."

“Anyway, I’m not sure if anyone did ever tell him exactly what happened. I think he’s imagining all sorts of things and the not knowing is the worst. You know his little sister died as well.”

Hugh nodded again, not trusting his voice.

“He said how small her coffin was. He went to the funeral you see. He said his Dad held his hand and …..” there was a long pause. Hugh did not break it.

“He said his Dad held his hand so tight that it hurt. Then he said, that helped.” Reg paused and looked worriedly at Hugh.

Hugh was silent for a moment, trying to read into that last sentence what Reg obviously couldn’t say. Then he worked it out and his heart sank. He needed time to think this through and come up with an answer for the obviously distressed boy sitting next to him, let alone for Copley.

He was about to attempt an answer when he realised that Reg hadn’t finished.

“He cried after he told me his sister was only four. It was scary crying. You know, all sobs and gulps. I think he’s afraid his Dad will be killed as well. Then he’d have no one of his own.”

Hugh quickly decided to leave some of the issues to another day when he had time to think. It was getting late and Reg looked exhausted.

“I’ll have to think through what you’ve told me before I can decide how to handle it. I can hardly go up to him and bring the subject up out of the blue. That would give you away, in any case. Fortunately, you’re not in the same dormitory so he won’t know you’re late to bed.

Just one more thing before we both go upstairs. What did you say to him when he told you all this?"

"He started off telling me to go away and I said I couldn’t. Then I tried to get him to talk and he said no one understood. I said I might ‘cos of not having my Mum. I think I told him I used to dream about her and wake up crying.

I just sat there then and waited. It seemed ages before he started to talk but I wasn’t going to leave him like that and I didn’t know what else to say, so I just sat.

After he’d finished, I told him a bit about what happened when my Dad died. I told him I used to be scared my Auntie would die because she seemed so old.

Oh yes, I remember now! I asked him if that was part of it. You, know. His Dad going off to the war again. He said he supposed so and then he cried again.

Then I said he needed to talk to a grown up and I suggested you. I told him about your Mum dying in an air raid. Was that alright?”

“Definitely! You’ve done better than any of us at getting him to talk. Can we leave it there for tonight. We can’t do anything till tomorrow. Oh, one more thing. Has he had any letters from his father since he went back?”

“I don’t know. He’s not said anything and I haven’t noticed.”

“I’ll find out. Mr Evans will know. He puts the post out on the table each day. Come on, let’s call it a day.”

Hugh picked up the tray and led the way out of the library, turning the lights out.

“I’ll just pop these into the kitchen. You go up and get ready for bed quietly. I’ll call in before I go to bed myself.”

Leaving Reg to make his way to bed, Hugh went to the kitchen and left the tray on the draining board. Then he climbed slowly up the stairs to Tennyson Dormitory and checked Reg who was nearly asleep.

“Thank you.” Said Reg in a low murmur. “It’ll be alright now that you know.”

He closed his eyes and was asleep before Hugh had left his cubicle, leaving Hugh to make his weary way to bed, hoping he could live up to Reg’s faith in him.

 

#88:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 5:19 pm

I love the way Hugh can talk to Reg on his level and I have a lot of faith he can help Copley.

Thanks Pat

*extra tight hug for Copley*

 

#89:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 5:43 pm

Thanks Pat. I hope Hugh can help.

 

#90:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! PostPosted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 6:53 pm

So glad that Hugh is prepared to help both Copley and Reg. Poor Copley.

 

#91:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 7:10 pm

Hugh is so good for Reg - just the person he needs to speak to.

Thanks Pat.

 

#92:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 7:49 pm

Thanks Pat

Glad Reg was able to explain things to Hugh without breaking his promise. I hope Hugh is now able to help Copley.

Liz

 

#93:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sun Jun 26, 2005 7:51 pm

So glad that Reg managed to tell without telling. I have a lot of faith in Hugh and the other staff to help now.

 

#94: A VIllage boy Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 12:14 am

Echoes everyone else's thanks here - Reg did really well to tell Copley's story without breaking his strict confidence on the one thing. I think that Hugh will now be able to help - and perhaps, if he can, then Copley will gradually regain some self-confidence and trust, feel that he can express his grief openly, and cease to self-harm - please.

Thanks Pat - I don't think I've commented too much on this latest part of the story, but it's as wonderful as ever.

 

#95:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 12:26 am

i'm so impressed by Reg's sensitivity and maturity here; he can keep a confidence, but knows how to give Hugh the important ideas and impressions. He'll be a good doctor.

 

#96:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 5:21 am

Cath V-P wrote:
i'm so impressed by Reg's sensitivity and maturity here; he can keep a confidence, but knows how to give Hugh the important ideas and impressions. He'll be a good doctor.


So...how does such a nice boy grow up to be the drippy Reg so loathed by DREGS?

 

#97:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 7:00 am

Thanks for the comments, I was a bit unsure about it. I've tried not to get too heavy and I promise it does cheer up soon!


Miss Di wrote:
So...how does such a nice boy grow up to be the drippy Reg so loathed by DREGS?


Because the 'drippy' Reg is just as imaginary as this one Wink

I've done my share of (insert EBD character almost at will) bashing for fun but underneath I've an affection for most of them, having lived with them on and off for over 50 years.

Thanks to Josie for reassurances and support, on and off board.

 

#98:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 7:46 am

Patmac - I've just caught up on all that I missed over the weekend. Whew, talk about an emotional wringer! That Grandad, product of his time and finding it hard to deal with the situation or not is a real pain. I hope with the efforts of both Reg and Hugh do help Copley. Thanks

 

#99:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 9:00 am

Miss Di wrote:
So...how does such a nice boy grow up to be the drippy Reg so loathed by DREGS?


*hides head in shame of own woeful ignorance*

What is DREGS please? Neutral

 

#100:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 12:05 pm

I'm glad that Hugh and Reg could talk as they did. I alo hope that they can get Copley to cry, it would help him.

 

#101:  Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough PostPosted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 12:13 pm

This is still so good, Pat. Really enjoying it. Hope Reg and Hugh can help Copley come to terms with his mother and sister's death, and can grieve properly.

*want to hug them all*

 

#102:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 2:15 pm

I want to hug all of them, and especially Copley. Poor child, being more or less told that it was weak to mourn!

 

#103:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 3:56 pm

Reg is so insightful for such a young boy, isn't he?

Hugh is just wonderful - that best thing for both Reg and Copley. I love the way he spoke to Reg as an equal there, getting him to trust him. Have every faith that he can help Copley now.

thanks Pat. Kiss

 

#104:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 9:49 pm

The next morning, being Sunday, breakfast was later than in the week. In good weather the boys walked up to Polgarth House for a service at eleven o’clock. Today was fine so the boys were all lining up outside ready for the walk when Hugh noticed that Copley was not yet with them. Thinking quickly, he spoke quietly to Charles and went back inside. Copley was coming down the stairs, still looking heavy eyed.

“How’s the head?” He said casually. “Is it better?”

Copley mumbled something which could be taken for agreement.

“You still look rough to me. How about coming for a quiet stroll while the others are at Chapel. The organ is so loud, it’s likely to set your head off again. I’ll be quite happy not to go. It’s a bit far for me to walk and we’ve no petrol for the car at the moment.”

Copley nodded.

“We’ll wait here while the others get off.”

Hugh sat down on the stairs and pulled Copley down beside him. They sat side by side in silence till the sound of feet crunching on gravel told them the rest of the school were leaving and then Hugh stood up and Copley had no choice but to do likewise.

They left the house and Hugh paused. “Woods or fields?” he queried. “You choose.”

“Fields, please.”

“Good choice. We’ll be in the sun.” They walked down the drive and crossed the lane, climbed over a stone stile and set off across the fields towards the bottom of the valley.”

Neither spoke for some time until Hugh glanced at Copley and saw that he looked a little less tense.

“You know, I’d never been to Yorkshire till I came to Polgarth last year. I was brought up a city boy and when I was a boy, Southend was the farthest I got. I always wanted to see the real country. While I was at University, I went on a couple of walking holidays but never up here.”

They walked on.

“You lived in London, didn’t you?” Copley ventured.

“Yes.” Said Hugh, cheerfully. “Down in Canning Town, near the docks. You come from London, too, I believe.”

“Yes.”

There was a pause.

“We lived in Greenwich.”

“South of the river, then. Did you ever walk under the Greenwich Tunnel?”

“Yes, once. I pestered my Dad to take me. It was a bit scary thinking the river was up there. When we got to the other side, it seemed funny looking back. We could just see our house through the trees. Did you ever go under it?”

This was the longest speech Copley had made since his return and Hugh hoped he was on the right track.

“Yes, A friend and I used to go off on Saturdays and in school holidays and we’d sometimes go through the tunnel and into Greenwich Park.” Hugh laughed at the memories. “It seemed like a great adventure. We used to scare one another by saying we could hear the roof creaking.”

Copley laughed. It was a half hearted laugh, but a laugh, nonetheless.

They walked on in silence for a few minutes. Hugh looked at his watch.

“We’ve time to walk right down to the river. I can manage that far and back, if you’d like to. I’m gradually trying to walk a bit farther each time I go out.”

“Yes. I don’t mind.”

They climbed another stile and into a field of sheep who looked at them incuriously and returned to their grazing, unmoved by the cares of humans.

“I’d never walked through a field of sheep till I came here.” Remarked Hugh.

“Me, Neither. Did you know Entwistle has a friend who is learning to be a shepherd?”

“Really? I didn’t know that.”

“It’s a boy he went to school with. They were best friends. He said Joe, that’s his friend, is really happy. He’s gone to live on a farm right up on the moors. He’s only a bit older than Entwistle and he’s left school and moved away from home for good. They’ve only got a tiny cottage and his sisters used to sleep in with their Mum and Dad. Entwistle goes to see him every time he goes home.”

“Good for Entwistle! People are all different and if Joe is happy that’s good. If no one wanted to be a shepherd, we’d be in a right mess. No pullovers and no lamb chops!”

“H’mm. I suppose so. But what if he didn’t want to be a shepherd?”

“Then that would be a pity. There are lots of people who don’t get the chance we’ve got. Most of my friends from school didn’t.”

Hugh couldn’t work out where Copley’s mind was going. Still, he was talking which was a step forward.

They crossed one more field and reached the river bank.

Hugh sat on a log and massaged the muscles of his leg. Copley sat down beside him and watched him.

“Does it hurt?”

“It’s more an ache than anything. It’s a lot better than it was. I couldn’t have done this walk when I first got here. The doctors didn’t think it would get as well as this but I’m obstinate.” Without thinking, he continued, “My mother always said I was first cousin to a donkey, I was so obstinate!”

Copley looked at him curiously.

“Is it true what I heard?”

“Depends on what you heard!”

“That your mother died in an air raid.”

“Yes, it’s true.”

Copley spoke again so quietly that Hugh had to strain to hear him.

“How did you get over it?”

Hugh looked across at the stream. It rippled over the stones, swirled round larger boulders, unheeding of the two sitting on it’s bank. A branch was being carried along and Hugh thought that it was like life, carried along with no choice. Smash against a boulder here, swirl dizzily into an eddy there, rest for a few minutes by the bank, and then on again. Always inexorably moving on, always another smash. His throat was tight and his eye pricked.

“I’m sorry.” Copley had spoken again while Hugh tried to collect his thoughts. “I didn’t mean to upset you.”

Hugh put his hand on the boy’s shoulder.

“You didn’t. I was just trying to think how to put it into words.” He paused again and felt the tension in Copley’s shoulder.

“I don’t think you do ‘get over it’ in the way lots of people think. You learn to live with it and then it becomes a dull ache, like my leg. Then, I’m not sure how long it takes, it is probably different for everyone, but other things, other people or new experiences start to get your attention and the grief fades.

Again, it’s rather like my leg. When it first happened it was horribly painful and I could hardly cope with it. The doctors put it in plaster and that hurt like mad while they were doing it. They wouldn’t let me walk on it to give it time to heal. The nurses had to look after me. Then, gradually it hurt less. When they let me start walking again, it hurt like mad and it seemed I had to go through it all again. Then it got stronger and now it aches but not enough to stop me doing things. And it’s still getting stronger. Some day I’m going to walk right to the top of the moors.”

He looked at Copley and smiled.

“First cousin to a donkey, that’s me! It’s a bit like that when someone dies. You think you can’t bear the pain and the more you try to be brave the worse it is. You need to give it time to heal a bit before you try to cope. You have to let other people help, like the doctors helped my leg. If they hadn’t put it in plaster and made me rest, it would never have got better.

Then, one day, you suddenly realise you haven’t thought of it for a few hours, then a day and, eventually it only hits you when something brings it to mind or you’re really tired or don’t feel well.

You realise that they are not gone. Yes the body has gone and you can’t see them any more but something is still there. It took me a long while to realise that. Eventually, you can remember the good times again and, although you’ll always be sad about it, you can mention them – like I just told you what my Mother used to say and I could laugh at the memory.

Is this making any sense to you? It’s just how it was for me.”

Copley nodded. “I think so. How long ago did she …”

“She died in 1941, so it’s over two years. It does take a long while, I’m afraid. Shall we walk on? If we follow the stream along to that bend there, we can join the lane back up to the school.”

Copley nodded again and they walked on.

They had just reached the lane when Copley turned to Hugh.

“I didn’t really know my Dad when he came home. I knew it was him, of course but It was like meeting a stranger. He didn’t even recognise me at all. He’s all I’ve got now and I don’t feel I know him. Now he’s gone again.”

“How long was it since you last saw him?” Hugh didn’t want Copley to know Entwistle had talked to him.

“Three years.”

“That’s a long while. He’s probably had a hard time in the war and it does change people. You’ve changed as well. It probably upset him too. He’d have had a memory of you as about nine. You’ve grown rather a lot since then.

“I hadn’t thought of that, but Mum used to send him snaps.”

“I don’t think snaps make a person come alive. We remember how people move, and when we remember something they said, we can remember how they said it, not just the words. It’s like when I told you what my Mother said. You just heard the words, I could see her standing with her apron on in the kitchen and I could hear her voice.

Your Dad was shocked as well. He’d just lost his wife and his little girl and he probably felt bad because he wasn’t there. It doesn’t matter that he couldn’t have been there. He’d still feel he should have been. When you’re hurting, you can’t stand aside and work out why things are. Have you written to him since you got back.”

“No. I didn’t know what to say. I can’t tell him how I feel. It wouldn’t be fair when he’s so far away.”

“Have you heard from him?”

“Yes, I’ve had one letter but he doesn’t mention it, really. It was just general things like funny things that have happened on the ship. He’s never written a lot anyway. They can only send letters when they get into port somewhere. It was my Mum who wrote every week.”

“He’s probably afraid of upsetting you. Can you write him a letter like you used to? It would help him. After all, you’re all he’s got now as well.”

“All right, I’ll do that.”

They walked back to the school, mostly in silence and the subject was not mentioned again.

That afternoon, Copley wrote a letter to his father and brought it for Hugh to see.

“Do you think it is all right?” he said anxiously.

“It’s fine. It will help him to hear from you.”

”I’ve written to Granddad and Grandma as well. Grandma is ill.”

“Will they be looking after you while your Dad’s away?”

“Yes, and I think, after what you said, they must be hurting too.”

“I’m afraid they definitely will be. They may find it as hard to talk about it as you did.”

“I think Granddad does.”

“Perhaps you can help one another.”

“I’ll try.”

“Good boy. If it gets too much any time, just let me know and we’ll take some time out again.”

“Thank you. I talked a bit to Entwistle yesterday.” he looked down and went red.

“I’m glad you did. He’s been through it as well.”

Hugh took some time later to hunt out a poem and copy it out for Copley.

“This is a poem that helped me. I think sometimes other people’s words are what we need when we can’t say things.” He said when he handed it to him that evening.

‘Death is nothing at all,
I have only slipped into the next room
I am I and you are you
Whatever we were to each other, that we are still.
Call me by my old familiar name,
Speak to me in the easy way which you always used
Put no difference in your tone,
Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow
Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together.
Play, smile, think of me, pray for me.
Let my name be ever the household word that it always was,
Let it be spoken without effect, without the trace of shadow on it.
Life means all that it ever meant.
It is the same as it ever was, there is unbroken continuity.
Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight?
I am waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near,
Just around the corner.
All is well.’


It took a long while for Copley to recover and he would never be the heedless boy he had been, but gradually, he let both Reg and Hugh get closer to him and his need to disappear to his secret place in the woods grew less.





The poem was by :
Henry Scott Holland
1847-1918, Canon of St Paul's Cathedral

 

#105:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 10:51 pm

That was lovely patmac - so touching and so true. I just love the gradual way that Copely slowly comes to trust, first in Reg, then in Hugh. The poem was also great. Thanks once again.

 

#106: A Village Boy Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Mon Jun 27, 2005 11:21 pm

That was indeed lovely - thank goodness that Hugh was able to be open with Copley in this way, and in turn, that Copley was able to talk to him about what had happened to his family.

I think that in drawing the analogy between his leg injury and grief, Hugh used a comparison which Copley could well understand. Without saying much about it, too, Copley was able to make it clear that he had also confided in Reg.

It's good to hear that Copley does gradually get over the worst elements of his loss, and that he's able, from the safe distance of school, to realise something of what both his father, and his mother's parents, must be feeling.

Well done, Hugh - and thanks, Patmac.

 

#107:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 6:36 am

Beautifully done, Hugh! (and Pat, of course Very Happy)

And thanks again to Reg, for opening the way for Copley's question.

 

#108:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 7:39 am

Thanks Pat - that was beautiful

Liz

 

#109:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 9:07 am

Thanks Pat, I agree it was lovely

 

#110:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 10:55 am

It's hard to type through the tears. Thanks, Pat.

 

#111:  Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 12:01 pm

You've brought tears to my eyes yet again, Pat.

Thank you.

 

#112:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 2:13 pm

Swallowing hard - poems can always move me to tears. Thank, Pat, that was beautiful.

 

#113:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 6:31 pm

The term had another shock in store for Reg. It came as he was singing in the choir one Sunday morning towards the end of term when his voice suddenly came out as a croak. Fortunately, he was not down to sing a solo so he just kept quiet for the rest of the hymns.

“Have you got a cold?” asked Hanson, as they took their robes off afterwards.

Reg didn’t get a chance to answer as Mr Reed came over at that point and marched him away. He took him into the now empty chapel and demanded that he sing a scale. It came out perfectly, much to Reg’s surprise.

“H’mm. Not a sore throat then?”

Reg coughed, experimentally. “No, I feel all right. It just came out like that.”

Mr Reed looked resigned.

“No you haven’t got a cold. You’ll not be singing at the end of term Service though.”

“Why not?” Reg sounded confused.

“Your voice is breaking.”

“Breaking?”

“You’re growing up, lad!” With that, Mr Reed thumped Reg, reassuringly on the shoulder and stalked off.

“Growing up?” said Reg in a daze.


~ ~ ~ ~ ~


The last day of term brought a much more welcome shock, this time for Copley. His grandparents had decided that he should not go to them for Easter as bombing was still continuing. His Grandfather had written to the Head, in a shaky hand, explaining the situation and asking him to tell his grandson.

Copley himself seemed relieved that he would not be going and, as it turned out, several parents had written with the same request and there would be ten boys staying at school for the holidays.

“What worries me, “ said John as he put the situation before the staff, “is that they all sound so resigned. One parent even wrote ‘Here we go again’. I’m sorry, I’ve got to ask for volunteers to help over the holidays, yet again. Charles and I are covering the last weekend when the new staff arrive, but we can’t cope with the boys the whole time as well. We both need a break, too.”

Eventually, a rota was worked out which allowed everyone to have a reasonable amount of time off but everyone noticed that John’s mouth set in a tight line as Cockcroft refused to co-operate.

“What is the matter with the man!” Hugh muttered to Charles. “Does he enjoy being a pariah?”

Charles grinned. “Wait and see. All will be resolved” He muttered in return.

Hugh and Charles were taking the first few days’ duty and the ten boys staying at school stood on the steps with Charles and John, who was leaving later, watching the home going boys board the coaches, when a loud engine noise was heard from the lane. A strange green vehicle swung into the drive and accelerating, swung onto the forecourt, with a flourish, conducted a tight handbrake turn and skidded to a halt in a cloud of gravel.

All activity ceased as the dust cleared and an excited buzz arose as the large star on the bonnet became visible.

“Cor, it’s a Yank!” came a squeal from Kelsey, who was the school authority on military vehicles.

A figure in Naval uniform with a bandage round his head climbed out of the passenger seat and came round to the front, looking round, anxiously.

“Dad!” Copley came stumbling down the steps and ran across to his father. “Oh, Dad! You came!” he cried as he fell into his father’s outstretched arms. Lieutenant Copley held him for a moment and then, his arm round his shoulder, walked across to John.

“I’ve come to take my boy off for a few days if we can find somewhere to stay.” He explained. “I’ve got a week’s sick leave.” He gestured to his head. “It’s nothing serious, or even heroic. I just slipped on the icy deck and hit my head on a stanchion. A few stitches sorted it but, as we were coming into port anyway, the MO decided I needed a break. We’re in dock for some heavy repairs so it works out well. I thought Ernest was going to his Grandparents?”

“They’re still getting air raids in London. Your father in law wrote and asked us to keep him. Most of the London boys are staying as well. Come on in and we’ll see what we can sort out. I just need to get these coaches off or they’ll miss the train. Copley, take your father to my study and then go to the kitchen and ask for coffee.”

Copley nodded, too overcome to speak, and led his father indoors.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

John turned back to the forecourt and saw the driver of the jeep get out and stretch, removing his leather helmet as he did so and was faced with a grinning rather rugged face and shock of fair hair.

“Where’s Hugh Douglas? I haven’t missed him, have I?” he said, standing with his hands on his hips and obviously enjoying the excitement he was causing.

“Dutch!” To everyone’s surprise, Reg dropped his case and ran across to the stranger. “What are you doing here?”

Dutch turned in surprise. “Hallo, young Reg! I didn’t know this was your school. I’ve come to see one of your teachers, How’s Auntie?”

“She’s fine. Oh, dear. I’ve got to go on the coach or I’ll miss my train.”

“I’ll write you, now I know where you are. You go. You’ll see me again soon.”

He slapped Reg on the shoulder and Reg reluctantly returned to the coach which had already started it’s engine. As the coach pulled out, he was frantically waving from the window.

“Tell Auntie I can sew buttons on now.” Dutch shouted after him as Reg was pulled down into his seat as the coach turned onto the drive.

Dutch turned to face the school and John came forward.

Before he could speak, a voice called from above. “Mike! What are you doing here?”

The stocky airman waved to Hugh who was leaning out of his window.

“Come on down and I’ll tell you.”

Dutch looked at John and smiled, engagingly.

“I’m sorry to cause a riot but this poor sailor was trying to hitch down to see his son and when he said where he was heading for I just had to bring him! I really wanted to see this school I’ve heard so much about from Hugh. I badgered right up to the Colonel and he gave in. He knows one of your boss men. A ‘Governor’ if I heard him right, name of Roper. I think he’s a Lord or something.”

“I’m John Wheeler and I’m the Headmaster here. Welcome to Polgarth. You’ve done us a big favour bringing Lieutenant Copley.

“Pleased to meet you, Sir.” Said Dutch, shaking John’s hand firmly. “I’m Mike van Alden. Sorry for the unconventional arrival but the Lieutenant was sure he’d miss his son if we didn’t hustle! When he saw the coaches, he was panicking a bit, so I stepped on the gas.”

By this time, the boys who were staying were clustered round the jeep, admiring it and commenting excitedly.

Dutch, grinned at John.

“If you could lay on a cup of coffee for a tired and thirsty airman, I’ll give these boys a spin in the jeep. I guess I could get five of these little shavers in at a time, though they’d be packed tight. It looks as though they’re not going home for the vacation and they deserve a treat. What do you say, Sir?”

John knew a determined man when he saw one and, in any case, the boys had heard the offer.

“One condition,” He said, his eyes twinkling.

Dutch looked a query.

“Then you take me for a spin as well.”

 

#114:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 7:54 pm

Hurrah - Mike's back Very Happy

Thanks Pat, two wonderful updates. I had the biggest lump in my throat reading the first one - I'm so, so glad Hugh was able to help.

And I'm even more glad to see Copley's Dad turn up in the second one.

(Edited because five-year-olds can spell better than me Embarassed )

Last edited by Josie on Tue Jun 28, 2005 8:58 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#115:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 8:12 pm

Thanks Pat, absoplutely perfect way for Hugh to approach Copley - and then for his dad to arrive!

Looking forward to Cockcroft getting his come-uppance!

 

#116:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 8:45 pm

That was two lovely installments, and a perfect contrast between the tender grief in the first one, and the riotous Dutch in the second.

 

#117:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 9:16 pm

Thanks Pat. The poem brought tears to my eyes. The contrast with the second post was great.

 

#118:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! PostPosted: Tue Jun 28, 2005 10:10 pm

Thanks Patmac! Smile

 

#119:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 12:08 am

Wow - you've just made me cry and then you made me laugh with the handbrake turn - bet it wasn't just that they were rushing, but a bit of exhibitionist Mike as well Very Happy


Lovely to see how things are working out - apart from Cockcroft, but I'm eagerly awaiting developements on that one

 

#120:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 12:50 am

Oh, brilliant - I can just see all those boys surrounding the jeep in a convulsing crowd!

 

#121:  Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 4:21 am

Once again I'm too late to make any original and insightful comment - but like evey one else, I think you're wonderful PatMac, you've taken me from tears to mad giggles today.

 

#122:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 8:02 am

Lovely Pat! Thank you

So glad Copley's father could come and take him off for half-term.

And good to see Mike "Dutch" van Alden! Glad he can sew on buttons - I'm sure Auntie will remember him.

Liz

 

#123:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 8:46 am

Wonderful, thank you Pat!

 

#124:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 8:47 am

So pleased for Copley...

Thanks Pat, I echo all the above comments!

 

#125:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 8:50 am

I really shouldn't read drabbles at work. I've just caught up and now I have distinctly watery eyes... Crying or Very sad

Thank you Pat. Hugh and Reg were both absolutely wonderful in their dealing with Copley. They acted exactly as they should do and, bearing in mind that this is the 1940s when counselling, self harm and child protection wouldn't have been so well publicised as they are today, it demonstrates just what thoughtful, insightful and well-drawn characters they are. I don't suppose Polgarth is in need of a school librarian, is it? Wink

Good to see Dutch again!

 

#126:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 1:14 pm

Two lovely posts, thanks Pat.

 

#127:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 2:22 pm

Mike von Alden's very funny, makes it even more clear why he and Corney were meant for each other! That was very funny!

 

#128:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 3:44 pm

I'm really glad that Copley's dad has turned up and hope tht the time they spend together will allow them to cement their relationship further. It's also great to see Dutch arriving and that not only does Reg remember him and that they are going to start corresponding, but he also knows Hugh, and seems to be getting on well with the Head. Looking forwards to more when you can, Thanks Pat

 

#129:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 5:41 pm

Again, thanks to Josie for approving of my portrayal of Mike TM


Hugh appeared at the door just in time to see the jeep disappear down the drive with a five wildly yelling boys on board and pursued by four more who were quickly left behind but ran down to the gate anyway to wait for their turn.

John looked at Hugh resignedly.

“There is nothing about you which suggests you are a trouble maker or a disturber of the peace. In fact I would have said you were a quiet and thoughtful person, yet somehow, you’ve stirred us up more than anyone for years.

I can’t believe I’ve just let five of the boys go off with a complete stranger – and a madman to boot! Reassure me please that they will come back in one piece.”

Hugh caught the twitching of John’s lips and tried not to laugh.

“I can’t vouch for his driving, but he can stand up after consuming more beer than anyone I’ve ever met. We met by chance in a pub in Leeds at New Year. He nearly drank me under the table. We’ve written to one another a few times since but how he comes to be here today, I’ve no idea.”

“I forgot you missed that. He brought Copley’s father. Apparently when Lieutenant Copley said he was trying to hitch to Polgarth, he was determined to bring him and see you!

His Colonel (who has my full sympathy, by the way) knows Sir Julian. I think he called him one of our ‘boss men called Roper’. He seems to think he’s a Lord!”

Hugh caught Charles’s eye and it was too much. They both collapsed on the steps with shouts of laughter.

John was heroically keeping a straight face, though only just. When the laughter had subsided, he continued,

“He also knows Entwistle and his Aunt. How, I don’t know, but he sent a message to her that he can sew buttons on now. Have you any idea what that means?”

The only reply was a further outbreak of laughter which was stemmed by the unmistakeable sound of the jeep returning up the lane.

Five boys were deposited at the end of the drive and the other four climbed in and the jeep took off again.

Four of the five boys started haring up the drive and then slowed to allow Canning to catch up. When they arrived at the front of the house, they all spoke at once.

“That was spiffing.” “You’ll never guess where we’ve been!” “We’ve been right down to the village.” “We went right round The Square.” “Really fast!” “Twice!” “Everybody rushed out to look.” “We waved at them.” “You’ll love it, Sir. It’s so exciting.”

Hugh and Charles collapsed again. After a moments struggle, John joined them. When they had all recovered, John suddenly remembered Copley and his father.

“Charles, can you go and tell them they can have the Lodge for the week. It only needs the beds making up and I know Ted has the range alight all the time to air it, so if the fires are lit, it should be fine for them. See if Mrs Newby is still here and organise some food for them. They can be quite private down there and I know Lieutenant Copley has no transport so it could be ideal. Offer it, anyway. Apologise for me, I’ve got an appointment to keep.”

Hugh looked puzzled.

John gave him a boyish grin. “It’s my turn next to scare the locals. I knew it was a good idea to have a Deputy.”

Charles went off to deal with Copley and his father while the rest waited for the return of the jeep. Eventually, the now familiar roar was heard and Hugh winced.

“He’s over revving it. That won’t do the engine any good.”

“We’ll it’s not his and I suppose the Americans can afford another one if he writes it off!” replied John, equably.

The jeep pulled up and four excited boys piled out to join their friends.

Dutch looked at John, quizzically. “Are you sure?”

“Yes. Absolutely. I have a reputation to uphold.” Replied John, folding his long legs into the jeep.

Dutch was puzzled and looked at Hugh, one eyebrow raised.

“Just don’t let him drive the thing, Mike. Not if you want to get back to base, anyway. He’s famous in the village for near misses.”

Dutch looked at John in admiration. “Sounds kinda fun. A man after my own heart!” and they took off, both laughing and whooping with excitement.

Hugh looked at the boys who were all watching the jeep disappear down the drive and clapped his hands.

“They’ll be a while, I guess. Let’s go and have milk and biscuits. We’ll hear them easily enough when they get back.”

 

#130:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 6:03 pm

Excellent - thanks Pat! Laughing

 

#131:  Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh PostPosted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 9:24 pm

Those were wonderful posts, thank you.

 

#132:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 10:11 pm

I have a warm glowy feeling inside!

Thanks Pat Very Happy

 

#133:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Jun 29, 2005 11:38 pm

Lovely Laughing

What a wonderful start to half-term for those who were left-behind.

Thanks Pat

Liz

 

#134:  Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 12:24 am

A lovely set of posts, Patmac - and how wonderful for Copley that his father could get that unexpected leave.

It's good to see Mike Van Alden again, too.

 

#135:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 12:53 am

i'm now warm and glowing on a cold wet day. Smile

 

#136:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 5:04 am

Absolutely marvelous way to lighten the mood! And I love the way your Mike meshes with Josie's.

 

#137:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 9:41 am

Thanks Patmac! They were lovely posts *also too late to say anything original or insightful!*

 

#138:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 9:45 am

Wonderful. Dutch is great and its lovely to see the staff relax. I'm now sitting here with a great big grin on my face.

Thank you Pat.

 

#139:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 9:49 am

Thanks Pat - lovely Very Happy

 

#140:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 3:17 pm

That was great, thanks.

 

#141:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 7:26 pm

Oh, now that brought a smile to face Pat, thanks.

 

#142:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 8:08 pm

I suppose the previous post should have had the usual warning of 'Don't try this at home, children!' Packing 5 boys into a jeep with no seatbelts would probably stike fear into the heart of most parents today. It was based, however, on several exciting rides I took in USAF jeeps when I was young - totally sanctioned by my uncle, who was an Inspector in the Police, leaving a lifelong desire to drive 'really fast'! How times change!




Not for worlds would John have admitted that sitting on the off side of a vehicle with no steering wheel in front of him was quite terrifying. Then he realised that, having climbed in over a narrow lip lower than the seat, there was no door. The tarmac, speeding by in a blur looked alarmingly close. There was also nowhere to hold on. Clutching the sides of his seat, he found his foot twitching in an attempt to stamp on a non-existent brake.

Mike took the lane at speed. He had been down here twice before and instinctively knew where to brake and change gear. At the end of the lane, he stopped.

“Do you want to go into the village and scare the locals or would you rather go somewhere else a bit less public, Sir?”

John hesitated and then some long suppressed inner demon surfaced. He sighed.

“Much as I think it unwise, I just have to go round the Square! I can’t resist being one up on Hugh and Charles. Did the locals really come out and watch?”

“Oh, yes! And the boys waved to them. Second time, they waved back so I guess they weren’t too upset!”

“Right. The village it is. Am I right that this vehicle can go up rough tracks?”

“Yep! It can go most anywhere. It’s got four wheel drive.”

“Spare me the technicalities! I’ll show you a different way back.” He glanced at his watch. “Plenty of time before lunch. Are you all right for petrol?”

“There’s two cans of gas on the back, all I’ve got to do is fill her up and I can do most anything. If I get stuck going back, someone will come out and fetch me. I don’t reckon anyone on base knows how far it is to Polgarth and I’m here on the Colonel’s orders.”

They set off on the main road, running down to the village, Mike accelerating and moving up through the gears with effortless expertise, John was still holding on to his seat and closed his eyes as they overtook the occasional vehicle.

Soon they were swinging into the streets of the village, slowing down slightly and following John’s preferred line of the middle of the road. When they emerged into the square, it was obvious that the inhabitants had heard them coming. Shopkeepers erupted from doors, upper windows were flung up and it seemed the whole village was watching.

“We’re going to have to stop and explain.” Shouted John, over the noise of the engine. “I think you are going to get quite a welcome!”

Mike nodded as he concentrated on guiding the jeep over the setts. “Where do you want to stop?”

“Right in the middle?”

“OK!” and they swept into the centre of the square, coming to a halt with an abruptness that had John clinging on for dear life.

An excited crowd gathered round and John stood up in the jeep.

“Sorry to scare you out of several year’s growth.” He proclaimed, smiling round at the crowd. “This is Mike van Alden. He’s an American airman and he’s brought young Copley’s father to see his son. I think most of you know Copley lost his Mother and sister in an air raid a few weeks ago.”

A murmur ran round and there was a surge forward to shake Mike’s hand, led by Mr Thompson, the baker.

“That were real kind. We know the lad were grieving sorely. Seeing his Dad will likely set him to rights.”

It seemed everyone wanted to shake the stranger’s hand. After all, this was not only a man who had left his safe home to help them in time of need but one who had gone out of his way to help a lad from the school up yonder.

Mike was more than willing to shake everyone’s hand and it became obvious that he needed to make a reply to John’s introduction.

“I’m real proud to be here. Some day, I hope I can come back in more peaceful times and meet you all properly.”

Seeing Mike was rather overcome by his welcome, John took a hand.

“I’m sorry we can’t stay. We have to back at school soon or they will be sending out search parties.”

Everyone laughed and stood back as Mike revved the engine and took off again to applause.

As they left the square, they missed the rather late arrival of Constable Porter, who rushed up, slightly out of breath and his helmet askew, to the centre of the crowd.

“What’s going on here? What was that noisy car? That’s the third time I’ve heard it. Driving dangerously. Who was it?”

The crowd melted away, leaving only Mr Thompson and a few of his neighbours.

“What noise? We just came out for a chat.” Said Mr Thompson, with a bewildered look on his face. “We was just enjoying the sunshine and having a chat. There’s no law against that, is there?”

Constable Porter spluttered. “I heard a car going far too fast, and not for the first time. Who was it?”

“’Twas probably one of those airplanes going over. I ain’t seen no car. Have you?” Bill Osborne looked round at his neighbours who all shook their heads in agreement,

Baffled and sure he had been duped, the constable had no choice but to admit defeat and leave the square. As he turned the corner, he heard the sound of laughter and decided to wait for the errant vehicle to return. After all, he reasoned, it had been here three times already and was bound to come back once he had gone.

He waited and waited. Eventually, he gave up and went home to an overcooked dinner and annoyed wife, who was waiting to go and see her daughter-in-law who had no idea how to bring up a child and really needed a visit every day to check on her. Now she would not be able to fit it in and get to the Mothers Union meeting in time.

Annie, who had been dreading her visit was greatly relieved as the time went by and she realised she had a day’s reprieve.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~


“Which way now?” asked Mike as they left the village.

“About half a mile on the left, there’s a track, it goes up the hill. The road goes right and the track is straight on.”

“That one?” asked Mike as they approached a bend.

“Yes, that’s it.”

To John’s alarm, Mike did not immediately slow down as they left the road and took to the track with a change of gears which had the engine screaming.

The hard seat of the jeep jarred John’s rear with every bump – and there were many! He gripped hard to his seat and braced his legs, expecting to be bounced out at every jolt. The track became steeper and the jeep slowed but kept going. The crested a rise and the pace quickened as they ran down into a small valley. Then they were climbing up onto the moors themselves.

John stole a glance at Mike and saw that he had an expression of unholy glee on his face. They climbed, twisting and turning till, suddenly they came out onto open ground.

“Stop here!” shouted John. Mike obligingly slammed on the brakes.

“Now look behind you.”

Mike turned in his seat and then switched off the engine and they both climbed out and walked to the back of the jeep.

Before them, the valley looked perfect in the spring sunshine. The grass was fresh, the trees were at their brightest green and the little village stood peacefully in the centre with the river flowing through, sparkling in the sun.

“Gee. That is perfect. How long has there been a village here?”

“We know there was a settlement here in Viking times, perhaps even earlier.”

“How long ago is that?”

“It was around 865.”

Mike’s eyes grew round. “Long before America was even discovered.”

They stood drinking in the scene for some minutes, then Mike stirred.

“I’ll remember this forever.”

They climbed back in and Mike turned the jeep and drove down till John indicated a turn off to the left. As they left the track and joined the lane to the school, Mike turned to John.

“I guess we’d better arrive back in style. Wouldn’t do to admit we’ve been standing admiring the view.”

“True enough. It would spoil your tough guy image for a start!”

Mike laughed. “Can’t have that, can we.”

He swung into the drive and, sounding a fanfare on the horn, accelerated up the drive and slammed to a skidding halt outside the house just as the excited boys surged from the house to greet them.

 

#143:  Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 8:40 pm

Beautiful, Patmac - I can just imagine Mike thrilling the locals with these performances!! He gets nicer every time we meet him.

And how lovely that John took him home by way of 'the tops' to show him the view; I forget what part of Yorkshire you've set Polgarth in, though I think I remember some question of it being modelled on Giggleswick School?

 

#144:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 8:41 pm

Awwww, that's lovely, Pat/

Really liked that the policeman was duped,
Excellent way the villagers all welcomed Mike
loved Mike's 'tough guy' image being shattered.

Wonderful.

 

#145:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 9:41 pm

That was all so wonderful Pat

loved the whole image of not just the constable, but his family slipped neatly into the middle there.

And the rest was fabulous too - thanks

Liz

 

#146:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 10:28 pm

*g*
Lovely Pat.

Especially like the villagers duping the constable, and of course anything to do with Mike - but then I do have a soft spot for him! (and also a huge soft-spot for John, who is very lovely!) Laughing

Last edited by Josie on Thu Jun 30, 2005 10:46 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#147:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Jun 30, 2005 10:39 pm

That was a great update Pat, thanks Kiss

 

#148:  Author: Alice, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 7:35 am

Thanks Pat, I loved the little interlude with the policeman, his wife and daughter-in-law.

 

#149:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 8:55 am

Thank you Pat. Lovely. Mike is great - I love him not wanting to ruin his image! And the welcome from the villagers!

 

#150:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 10:45 am

Thanks, Pat. I'm sure that bit of excitement did wonders for the morale of all concerned. Isn't Mike a hunny?

 

#151:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 6:02 pm

I may not get any posted over the weekend. It looks like a busy one!



Mike joined the boys and staff for lunch.

“When do you have to get back?” asked Hugh.

“So long as I’m back by around noon tomorrow, I’ll get away with it.” Mike replied with a wink. “After all, everyone knows your dinky little roads mean you have to drive slowly. The Colonel was real keen to do your Lord Roper a favour for some reason, so there’ll be no problem. We’re on stand down at the moment, anyway. Orders from on high. More than that I can’t say, though I hope it means what I think it means, if you take my meaning.”

“You’re welcome to stay tonight.” Said John. “I’m supposed to be leaving this afternoon but I’m sure Hugh and Charles can entertain you this evening. I do have a bottle of whisky I could provide that would pass the time.”

Mike’s eyes lit up. “Sounds like real fun. Do you have to go today, Sir? It seems a pity not to share it.”

“I’m due to meet some friends in Newcastle tomorrow morning, so I’m afraid so.”

“That’s North of here, so it’s on my way. How about if we left real early?”

“Can you get me to Newcastle by eleven o’clock?”

“What are you betting?”

“A bottle of Glenfiddich?”

“Done!”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~


After lunch, Mike and Hugh went out for a walk. Mike looked appreciatively at the surrounding countryside.

“This is real pretty. Your Head had me drive him right up the hill this morning and I was dumbstruck. We’ve been flying out of Duxford in Cambridgeshire and that’s quite different, all flat and what you really notice is the sky. This is just so different.”

“Where are you based now?”

“Up in Northumberland, for a break and some training. They pulled us out for a few weeks.”

Hugh knew this probably meant that their losses had been heavy enough to mean a re-organisation and asked no more.

They walked on in companionable silence till they came down to the river in the valley bottom and then, sitting on the same log where he had sat with Copley, Hugh told Mike about Dorothy.

“You’re the first person I’ve told.” He said when he had recounted how they had met and the story to date. “We’re not officially engaged yet anyway and it will be at least two or three years before we can get married. I really want to be sure of my future here before we start setting dates and I’ve some saving up to do before I can set up house. Anyway, she wants to finish her training first and teach for a while before she settles down.”

Mike was delighted. “That’s real good news. She sounds just right for you. I can’t see any woman falling for me! I’ve a younger brother, Richard, who’s real good with the girls but I don’t seem to have the knack. I’ve got two left feet on the dance floor and I always seem to say the wrong things. Besides, I’ve not met any girl who appreciates my sense of humour. At best, they look blank at me!”

“You never know!” and Hugh told him about Hilary wanting to spit on the steps of the Men’s PE College.

Mike laughed. “I wish I could have seen that. I expect she’s spoken for?”

“I’m afraid so! Perhaps we could introduce you to one of their friends from school. There were even some Americans there.”

“Perhaps you should. Only kidding! I wouldn’t even think of getting involved with anyone till this is all over. Too risky. I wouldn’t like to put any girl through that worry.

If I get back home in one piece and can’t find anyone, I might just take you up on that, though I expect they’ll all be taken by then. The girls at home aren’t as spirited. They bore the pants off me to be honest. If ever I get married, I want a partnership, not a simpering little ninny who is only interested in the latest fashions and gossiping. My Mom is keen for me to settle down. Trouble is she keeps throwing me at empty headed gigglers who think I’d be a good catch. That’s one of the problems of coming from old money.”

“I didn’t realise you had that sort of class system in America. ‘Land of the Free’ and all that!”

Mike shrugged. “I guess people are the same the world over. If they get to the top of the tree, they want to stay there. I’ll tell you, this war has taught me a lot about different folk. You met Chuck. He’s my best buddy and he’s a coal miner from Alabama. I’d never have got the chance to meet him but for the war.”

They stood up and walked on along the river bank and back up the lane.

“You won’t say anything, will you?” Hugh asked. “I had to tell someone and I was going to write about it in my next letter, but I don’t want to say anything at the school yet. I don’t know why, really, but it seems too soon.”

“I’m proud you told me. Strange how you can meet someone by accident and become good friends so quickly. This is only the second time we’ve met yet I feel real close to you. When you think of all the people you meet and just pass on.”

“It is strange. Which reminds me, how do you come to know Reg Entwistle and his aunt. I wish you’d seen John’s face when you went off with the first lot of boys. He was stunned that a mad American appeared, demanded to speak to one of his staff and then also knew one of the boys! Charles and I were sobbing with laughter on the steps. On second thoughts, wait and tell us tonight, otherwise you’ll have to tell it twice. We’re just in time for tea, now. Oh, I forgot. Would you rather have coffee?”

“We drink tea at home. Have you never heard of the Boston Tea Party?”

 

#152:  Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 6:10 pm

Thanks, Patmac - what a wonderfully upbeat piece, despite the fact of the war still very much in the forefront of both men's thoughts. I can well imagine the contrast Mike found between the country round Duxford and this part of Yorkshire, as well as with Northumberland, where he is currently based.

Will wait in patience for the next post -have a good weekend, even if it is a busy one.

 

#153:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 7:17 pm

I forgot to post earlierin reply to guesses about the locations.

Polgarth has elements of Giggleswick as Pat guessed. It's not far from here and is in a beautiful valley with the right railway nearby.

Polgarth is a lot farther North, though. It's up beyond the Ribblehead viaduct and in wilder country. It's on limestone, of course, whereas Giggleswick is on the edge of the limestone country. I was tempted to place it by the sea as that would be my ideal location but the bunny wouldn't have it!

Garnham is not that near Helmsely but nearer Grosmont and a little east so it is easy to see the sea from the moors - purely because I know it well and love it! I did take some time tracing old railways on the map and know the areas I am describing well - even if they are an amalgam.

"Any resemblance to real places is purely co-incidental and the locations exist only in my imagination"

 

#154:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 7:28 pm

Lovely post Pat - and why did the name Cornelia Flower pop into my head when Mike was describing the type of woman he wanted as a wife? Laughing

 

#155:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 8:05 pm

Thaks Pat, I missed a post or so so it was good to catch up. I think this laptop has been playing tricks on me! lol, That was loverly anyway, and Yes, Corny is the complete antithesis of the kids of girl that Mike wants to avoid, I could never imagine her as "a simpering little ninny" never mind any of the rest of that! A great post, with such a nice mixture of reality and dreams mixed in with it

 

#156:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Fri Jul 01, 2005 8:20 pm

I love the country around Ribblehead - it's so wild. It was where we did the last long walk with our dog too.

 

#157:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 12:46 am

Thanks Pat - lovely to see them relaxing and getting to know each other a bit better

*waiting to see if Mike earns that Glenfiddich!*

Liz

 

#158:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 9:15 am

I'm betting he will Liz!

Thank you Pat! A lovely post - great to see how quickly Hugh and Mike have become friends.

 

#159:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 10:15 am

I love catching up with this... also love the way Dutch and Hugh are becoming such close friends! Thanks Pat, interesting to hear the geography as well!

 

#160:  Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Sat Jul 02, 2005 11:36 pm

I only just saw your post about the geography Patmac - I too love the area beyond Ribblehead - a beautiful, wild part of Yorkshire which I haven't visited for close to 20 years. The last time was via the train from Skipton to Carlisle and back, so I can't say we really got very close to Nature, but the views from the train were fabulous.

As for the Grosmont area - we're just on the edge of Heartbeat country aren't we? I know that Aidensfield is supposed to be Goathland, but it's still the same area and the same train route, isn't it? You'd be surprised how many expat. Brits here are waiting eagerly for the next Heartbeat series - I'm not sure if it's for the story, the characters or the scenery!

T

 

#161:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 11:34 am

Thanks, Pat. The Yorkshire Moors are one of my favourite parts of the country.

 

#162:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 12:51 pm

They went in and had tea and afterwards Mike and Charles went out with the boys to initiate Mike into the mysteries of Soccer. Hugh followed them after a little while and sat with Canning to watch and shout rude comments.

It grew dark early still and soon they were all indoors, the boys retiring to the Fourth Form Common Room which had been turned over to them for the holidays while Charles and Hugh took Mike round the school.

“It’s not that much different from my Junior School.” Mike commented as they went round. “That was a converted house with parts built on to it. How old are the boys when they leave?”

“Thirteen, or thereabouts. They go on up to Polgarth House which is the Senior School. We’ve got the odd ones who are ahead of their age and, if they are comfortable with their form and we are sure they can handle the work, they go up through the school ahead of their age. They end up quite often doing an extra year in the Sixth and taking extra subjects.

We share the chapel with Seniors and go to watch the school teams play sports so it’s not completely new to them when they go.”

Mike idly picked up a book with a dull green cover from a desk. “Kennedy’s Latin Primer! I remember the torments of that.” He shuddered and laid it down again. “All those lists to memorise.”

Charles and Hugh both laughed. “We try every way we can to make it more interesting but they still have to get the basics in somehow!” commented Charles, ruefully.

When they had finished, Mike collected his knapsack from the jeep and Hugh showed him to the room where he would be sleeping.

“It’s reserved for visitors, usually Governors or an occasional parent.”

“You’ll have to explain how that Governor thing works. I don’t really understand it. I thought Mr Wheeler was trying not to laugh when I mentioned Lord Roper, did I say it wrong?”

“I don’t know how the Governor system works, either. You forget, I’m new to this sort of place. You’ll have to ask John that. Oh, and he’s not a Lord.” Explained Hugh. “He’s a ‘Sir’. We refer to him as Sir Julian.”

“Gee, that sounds disrespectful to use his first name, like that! Is that above or below a Lord?”

“Actually it’s below. I hope that won’t put you off sleeping here. Sir Julian was the last visitor to use this room.”

“A few stiff whiskies and I’ll sleep like a baby, Lord or no Lord.”

Mike unpacked his knapsack and brushed his hair into some semblance of order and they went down for dinner.

Mrs Newby was well on her mettle and had scurried the maids round the kitchen directly after lunch in a flurry of instructions.

“We’ll not have a foreigner saying we can’t cook good food. Elsie, you go and see Mr Newby and get him to cut me a good big piece of topside. There’s a carcase hanging. Then when you come back, start mixing the Yorkshire. It’s a good job the hens are laying again. Don’t be stingy with the eggs, now. Doris, go and pull me some young cabbage and then fetch the carrots and parsnips from the cellar. Get plenty, now.”

Elsie and Doris rushed round to do her bidding, excited at the prospect of such an unusual visitor, while Mrs Newby launched into a positive orgy of baking interspersed with supervising the efforts of her assistants.

The result impressed Mike, though Hugh had to explain the custom of eating Yorkshire pudding before the main course and when the roast beef was brought in, the effect was rather spoiled by the cheers from the boys and the very audible comment from one of the younger ones.

“Why are we having beef? It’s not Sunday!”

“It’s because Dutch is here, you dummy!” came the equally audible reply.

The pudding of apple pie and custard was equally well received and Mike declared himself fit to burst.

The boys cleared the tables while the adults had a cup of coffee and then went off happily to get on with their hobbies with the promise that Mike would come and join them soon.

“You’ve made a real hit there!” said Charles, as he accepted a cigarette from Mike.

“They’re a grand troop of kids.” Returned Mike. “It’s been great to see some normal life for a change. I think I’d lost my sense of perspective over the last few months.”

When they had finished coffee, Mike insisted in going through to the kitchen to thank Mrs Newby.

“I’m going to kidnap you and take you back to base!” he exclaimed, enveloping her ample form in a big hug. “I haven’t had a meal like that since I left home.”

Leaving her blushing and the maids giggling, he then demanded to be taken to the boys’ common room, where he duly admired all their hobbies, declaring that he could never have made anything half as good and then regaled them with tales of his schooldays, which, if half the stories he told were true, were filled with pranks and general mayhem.

 

#163:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 1:10 pm

Thanks again, Pat. that was lovely. It's good to see that we can impress one of they furrin visitors with our food, even in wartime.

 

#164:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 1:17 pm

Love that the boys comments wrecked the impression that is was just normal too!

Thanks Pat - but it's football you know - not soccer! Wink

 

#165:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 1:19 pm

This is fab, love seeing Mike interacting with the boys and staff. He's a great character.

 

#166:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 3:25 pm

Thanks, Pat, that was great! It's lovely being home, I can laugh loudly without disturbing anyone who's trying to work! What a perfect man for Corney - and she certainly couldn't be described as a "simpering ninny"!

 

#167:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 5:28 pm

Lovely - thanks Pat Kiss

 

#168:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! PostPosted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 9:04 pm

Thanks Pat - thats great!

 

#169:  Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 9:59 pm

Thanks for another great episode, Patmac -it's lovely to see Mike having chance to relax away from the tensions of the War. And what a lovely meal Mrs. Newby put on, despite all the rationing etc. - clearly it helps to live in a country area and have 'friends in the right places' when it comes to obtaining foods which are in short supply.

But I did have to laugh over the names of the two maids - how true to the period! My only problem was I had visions of Elsie & Doris Waters as "Gert and Daisy" every time I read their names - talk about dating myself royally!

 

#170:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sun Jul 03, 2005 10:14 pm

Thanks Pat, that was lovely and you really bring Dutch to life.

 

#171:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 1:27 am

Oh, I love Dutch!!! And what a lovely set of posts! Thanks for sorting out the location;I thought that's where it was - one of my favourite bits of the world, but i expect it's changed since David and I were last up there.

 

#172:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 10:14 am

Thank you Pat, lovely. You paint such a clear picture of the school and of Mike and the boys.

 

#173:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 12:33 pm

Thanks Pat

I bet "the half-term Dutch was here" will go down in the annals of the school as one to remember!

Liz

 

#174:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 9:20 pm

Hugh, watching the boys’ eyes light up and hearing the laughter, sat quietly enjoying the scene and thinking that Mike would have made a good teacher. Eventually, bed time came and Mike, to Hugh’s relief, backed him up and refused any more tales.

“No, no more! Your Headmaster will give me lines to do if I keep you up any later. I’ll write to you and maybe someday you’ll come to America and see me.”

“Can we write to you, too?”

Mike laughed. “You both can and may. Why don’t you give your letters to Mr Douglas and he can send them on in a packet all at once. Come on! Bedtime now!”

The boys all shook his hand as they left the room except little Michael Brooks, who was only eight and the youngest of the boys spending Easter at the school. He impetuously flung his arms round Mike’s waist and hugged him. Mike was quick to return the hug and looked across at Hugh, his feelings clear on his face.

Collecting himself, he gently disengaged the little boy and smiling, said “Come on, I’ll give you a pick-a-back.” Hoisting the lad on his back, he set off out of the room and up the stairs, making a loud roaring noise.

At the top of the stairs he stopped. “You’ve got to steer. You’re the pilot.” Shrieking with laughter, Brooks pointed along the corridor and Mike took off again.

“Stop, stop. This is the dormitory.” He cried as they reached the dormitory where all the boys were sleeping for the holidays.

“Airplanes can’t stop that suddenly.” And Mike ran the length of the corridor before turning and coming back.

“Which bed?” he asked as he entered the room.

“That one.” Brooks replied, pointing.

Mike tipped Brooks gently onto the bed and sat on it, panting. “I guess I’m not as fit as I thought I was.” he exclaimed to Hugh who had just reached the dormitory.

Brooks sat up and grabbed Mike round the neck and hugged him tightly.

“Will you come and see us again?” he pleaded.

“I’ll try, but I don’t know for sure if I can. I’m going to be busy for the next little while. I have to go back to work, you know.”

Brooks sat back on his heels, his face serious.

“Be careful, Dutch. I’ll write to you.”

Mike gathered the small boy in his arms for a moment and held him close.

“I’ll write to you too.” He said in a gruff voice.

He gathered his self control with an effort. “Say, when you grow up, you come to Boston and see me. Is it a deal?”

“It’s a deal.” And Brooks, with the innocence of youth, was satisfied.

Mike managed to say farewell in a cheerful tone to all the boys and left the room, leaving Hugh to settle them for the night. As he reached the top of the stairs he paused to collect himself. This was what he was fighting for. That boys like Brooks could grow up unafraid.

He remembered that he had heard that the Nazis were trying to develop an airplane capable of bombing his home. Even that far away, people were practising air raid drills ….. just in case. **

No matter the losses, even that of his own life, this was a worthwhile struggle. By the time Hugh came out of the dormitory, Mike had recovered his customary control and was again, Dutch, joker extraordinaire.

Hugh understood and the two men exchanged a glance which spoke volumes before Mike said. “On with the Show!” and led the way downstairs.
.




**
Below are a couple of links to some info on this for anyone interested. We do know that Hitler was very keen to develop such a capability, but there are three separate versions of the tale of the ‘Amerika Bomber’. It is likely that the plan was to drop one atomic bomb on America – things would likely have gone very differently had this succeeded.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amerika_Bomber

http://www.otal.umd.edu/~vg/amst205.S97/vj23/project5a.html


Certainly air raid precautions were initiated as far inland as Cincinnati – though some argument can be made that these were actually intended to bring the reality of war home to the population in order to boost patriotic fervour.

 

#175:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 9:43 pm

Wow, that was wonderful Pat, it was the comment towards the end that got me,

Quote:
Mike managed to say farewell in a cheerful tone to all the boys and left the room, leaving Hugh to settle them for the night. As he reached the top of the stairs he paused to collect himself. This was what he was fighting for. That boys like Brooks could grow up unafraid.
...
No matter the losses, even that of his own life, this was a worthwhile struggle. By the time Hugh came out of the dormitory, Mike had recovered his customary control and was again, Dutch, joker extraordinaire.


It is very sobering to see him like that, and rounds out his character.

 

#176:  Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 9:55 pm

That comment got to me too, Patmac - thank goodness Dutch had had this day with the boys as an antidote to the tensions of his normal activities. And what a hit he made with them, too.

Thank you - you convey the atmosphere so well.

 

#177:  Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline PostPosted: Mon Jul 04, 2005 10:07 pm

Wow, thanks Pat - you change the atmosphere from fun to the realities of life so well. I feel sorry for the adults as they struggle to give the children a childhood. Thanks once again for this insight.

 

#178:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 1:55 am

Oh, Pat, that's just so moving. And I think Dutch is even more gorgeous!

 

#179:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 7:06 am

*increasingly impressed by Mike*
And, as usual, the atmosphere is so deftly handled. Very Happy

Definitely true about the precautions in the U.S., post Pearl Harbor. My mother was an air raid warden in Washington, D.C. They feared they'd be a likely target.

 

#180:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 7:19 am

Thanks Pat

Hope Mike didn't then have a whole queue of boys wanting to pilot an aeroplane!! Laughing

Liz

 

#181:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 9:02 am

Awww what a gorgeous scene, thanks Pat Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy

 

#182:  Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough PostPosted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 12:11 pm

Pat, I've just caught up on a few posts - I'm running out of superlatives to describe this. The characters are just so well-drawn and believable, and the war-time atmosphere is important to the story yet doesn't overwhelm it. *sighs in contentment*

Thank-you.

 

#183:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 6:25 pm

Thank you Pat, that was a wonderful scene - what a dedicated man Mike is. And in the school he could see exactly what he was fighting for - probably the one thing which kept all the pilots going, seeing how many of their comrades failed to make it back to the air bases every time they were sent out.

 

#184:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 7:20 pm

Thanks Pat. Mike is absolutely great - but there isn't any chance we could witness his romance with Corney, is there? *hopeful*

 

#185:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 7:30 pm

Laura wrote:
Thanks Pat. Mike is absolutely great - but there isn't any chance we could witness his romance with Corney, is there? *hopeful*


You will, Laura, but it'll be me writing it as a spin-off from A Second Chance. It's already half written - I started it when I first mentioned Mike and wrote about their meeting near the beginning of A Second Chance, I just haven't got round to posting it yet. Embarassed

Thanks Pat, that was a really lovely round off to Dutch's visit. I hope some of the boys do manage to get to visit him in Boston one day. Kiss

 

#186:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 7:58 pm

Mike's character is courtesy of Josie - her visualisation and borrowed, with permission and prior approval. Her 'Mike' bunny appears from time to time for a little holiday and runs riot through the local warren located in my study, producing lots of little hybrids!

I have, however, stealthed a couple of does back 'down south' and who knows what may happen in the future!




Hugh led the way to John’s study, where they had decided to spend the evening. As they entered, laughing, John was building up the fire with apple wood and Charles was pouring whisky into small glasses.

A few side lamps were lit and the main light turned off, giving a cosy glow, four large armchairs were gathered round the fire. Mike looked round the room, appreciatively.

“Say, this is just how I imagined an English gentleman’s study would look. Books everywhere!” He sank into a chair and accepted a glass of whisky, taking a sip. His eyes widened.

“Laphroaig, 15 Years old?”

Charles looked at the label on the bottle. “Right first time. How did you know?”

“My Pop is a whisky buff, He taught my brother and me to appreciate whisky as soon as we were old enough, I’d rather have this than cocktails any day!”

John raised his glass.

“You’ll be pleased to hear this came from our ‘boss man’, Sir Julian Roper, His father was a whisky enthusiast, too.”

“Wait till I tell Pop I drank Laphroaig in a Headmaster’s study in England. He’ll be so impressed.”

They all sat for a few moments, savouring their drink, then Mike handed round his long American cigarettes and they lit up and settled back in their chairs.

“I’m not going to relax till I hear how you come to know Entwistle and his Aunt. They live in a tiny village on the moors How on earth did you meet them?” asked John.

Hugh and Charles looked with interest at Mike. It seemed so unlikely.

Mike chuckled. “We’d only landed in Plymouth the day before. No one seemed to know where we should be going. I think there was what you call a ‘flap’ on. We heard later there’d been an air raid only the previous night.

We were put on a train to London and then it stopped in a tunnel for an hour or so. No one told us what was going on, but we heard later that it was another air raid. Eventually we set off again and then we were shunted into a siding. It was dark outside and they turned all the lights out. We pushed the blinds up so we could see out, but it was just all black. We heard this awful wailing, I know now it was an air raid siren, and then we saw the flashes from the ack-ack guns firing. We’d no idea what was going on, though we guessed. and then, suddenly there was an awful whooshing sound and then an almighty crash and the train shook.

I guess we weren’t really prepared for the reality of what we’d gotten into. It seemed so simple in training. Get in your plane, navigate to the target, drop the bombs and fly back. Oh, they taught us about jinking to avoid the anti aircraft guns and watching out for fighters as so on, but the real thing was something else. No one had told us we might get bombs dropped on us! We could see the flames coming from a nearby town and every now and then another bomb dropped nearby. I’d never been so scared in my life.

When it finished, the train started moving again and we just sat there till we got to a station in the middle of nowhere and waited again in total darkness. Then someone came along the train and told us to pull all the blinds down so they could put the lights on.

Then these two women came along the corridor pushing a trolley with coffee and sandwiches. I’ll tell the world we were ready for that coffee!

We set off again, but not to London. I don’t know why. Maybe the line was hit. We must have gone across country because by the time the sun came up, we could see hills and we were on a single track line. We’d been shunted into sidings and waited at more stations, every time, wondering if there was another raid on. I think I must have fallen asleep then because the next thing I knew, we were pulling into this big station and we all got out to wait for another train.

All they’d told us about the English was a bit about the difference in language. You know – a sidewalk is a pavement, A fag means a cigarette, odd things like that. We’d really no idea about the people or what to expect.”

He paused to take another sip of whisky.

“We’d have been no better in America. If I thought about it at all, I suppose my typical American would be riding a horse and singing, like Gene Autry!” commented Charles.

“Or Chicago gangsters!” added Hugh.

Mike laughed and set his glass down again.

“We hung around for a bit and then settled down to wait. A truck pulled onto the platform and two more women in uniform got out and pulled down the side to make a kind of coffee stall. You know whenever we’ve been stuck somewhere, some of these women appear with their great urns of coffee. It’s as if they’ve got a crystal ball to tell them when we’re coming. Often they’re Red Cross but there’s another outfit wearing green.”

“That’s the WVS, Women’s Voluntary Service. They were set up just before the war.”

Mike nodded. “I’ve heard a lot more about them since. There was a Welcome Club on our base and I’ve heard about their work with refugees and helping with evacuation. Some of the guys started to get in line and we decided to wait till the rush was over.

Then we saw a little train pull in and this lady got off with a boy. He’d got his arm in a sling so Chuck and I went across to help with their suitcases. The poor souls looked so bewildered when they heard their train was delayed that we took them across to the Captain who was talking to the Station Master. The Station Master explained they would have to wait till our train went through and she was real upset.

I don’t think Mrs Thirtle had travelled much before and she really didn’t know what to do. Anyway, we took them over to where our own buddies were sitting and sat her down. Chuck took Reg off to get drinks from the stall and we started talking, you know, just who we were and where we came from. Then she saw I had a button hanging off my tunic and told me I needed to sew it on again or I’d lose it.

When I said I didn’t know how, she whipped out a little sewing kit and showed us all how to sew a button on. By the time Reg and Chuck got back with the drinks, we were calling her Auntie and the best of friends! We’ve been thankful for that lesson since and we always remember her when we’re doing our mending.”

John laughed. “I’ve not met the redoubtable Mrs Thirtle but I imagine she’s one of those women with a stern exterior and a heart of gold! She’s made a good job of young Entwistle, anyway. He’s doing really well.”

Mike looked a little puzzled. “Maybe I shouldn’t ask but they didn’t seem the sort who could afford boarding school. I got the impression they were not exactly rich.”

“They’re not. A Doctor who met them in the summer is paying for Entwistle to come here. He and his wife were impressed enough to pay for him right through school and, as he wants to be a doctor himself, they’re paying for his Medical Training as well. He’s a bright lad and should do well.”

“That’s swell! There are some good people about. Now I know where he is, I’ll write to him. Auntie and Reg were the first English people we really spoke to and I’ve remembered them when the going got tough.”

The talk turned to the school and Mike’s respect for John grew as the evening wore on. Only once did they touch on the subject of the war and, not wanting to spoil the evening for Mike, the conversation was deftly turned. Once Charles slipped upstairs to check on the boys and came back saying they were all sound asleep and about ten o’clock, Hugh went to the kitchen returning with a pot of coffee and some home made biscuits which Mrs Newby had left out for them.

“She’s left a note.” He said smiling widely. “There’s two packs of sandwiches for you to take in the morning because you’ll be leaving early, a thermos for you to fill with tea or coffee and a tin of buns for Mike to take back to base. She says they are for the ‘poor young gentlemen away from home’.”

They retired at about half past ten. John and Mike would be leaving by seven next morning and Mike had already had a long drive that day.

“I’ll fill the jeep with gas before we leave.” Said Mike. “Don’t let me forget, and I’m relying on you to get me back to the main road. I’ll be lost otherwise with no signposts.”

John nodded. “Don’t worry. I know the way.”

Charles and Mike shook hands in farewell as they left the study. “I might be awake and, if I am, I’ll come and see you off but I’ve drunk more tonight than I’m used to so I’ll make no promises.” Said Charles, with a wink.

Hugh went with Mike to his room to see he had all he needed.

“I’m glad you came.” Said Hugh, as he left the room. “To be honest, I never expected to see you again.”

“I’m glad, too. It’s been great for me, too. I’m sure we’ll meet again someday, though I’ve no idea when or where. I’ll see you in the morning.”

 

#187:  Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent PostPosted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 8:21 pm

Some lovely posts Pat - and nice to see the meeting with Auntie and Reg from a different POV.

 

#188:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 8:26 pm

Thanks Pat.

I pictured every scene of Mike's journey then, and I love the way they all recognise Auntie for exactly what she is - tough, redoubtale and with a heart of gold.

Looking forward to the day when Mike and Hugh do meet again (you will let them, won't you?!)

patmac wrote:
Her 'Mike' bunny appears from time to time for a little holiday and runs riot through the local warren located in my study, producing lots of little hybrids!

Oh, and they always come back very merry with life - do you let them get at your Laphroiag?! Wink Wink

 

#189:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 8:31 pm

*I* don't have a Sir Julian, unfortunately Evil or Very Mad

Glenfiddich is my tipple of choice - with just a little ice. Judging by what I hear, they are quite prolific on that Wink

 

#190:  Author: Mia, Location: London PostPosted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 8:39 pm

Thanks Pat, I really enjoyed that update! Very Happy

 

#191:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! PostPosted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 10:32 pm

great Pat thanks

 

#192:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 11:22 pm

lovely Pat

Thanks Smile

Liz

 

#193:  Author: Elder in Ontario, Location: Ontario, Canada PostPosted: Tue Jul 05, 2005 11:34 pm

That was a lovely scene, Patmac - such a relaxing interlude for all the men, but especially for Mike. And nice to see the story of the meeting with Reg and his aunt from Mike's angle.

Love the idea of his father being a conoisseur of Scotch - he was clearly a good teacher on his topic, too.

Like everyone else, I hope you allow Hugh and Mike to meet again even, to quote Vera Lynn (and very appropriately too, given the period of this story!) 'don't know where, don't know when!'

Looking forward to more of this please.

 

#194:  Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW PostPosted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 12:57 am

Oh, lovely , lovely, lovely! And Dutch is a well-educated Scotch drinker, bless the boy.

 

#195:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 1:47 pm

Thank you Pat! (and Josie for loaning the Mike bunny!)

This is wonderful!

 

#196:  Author: MaryR, Location: Sale Cheshire PostPosted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 1:59 pm

I haven't commented for a while, Pat, but I am still enjoying it all immensely.

Than you.

 

#197:  Author: dackel, Location: Wolfenbuettel, Germany/Cambridge, England PostPosted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 5:04 pm

That was wonderful, Pat, as always. Thank you so much for this drabble!

 

#198:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 6:10 pm

Mike woke early in the unaccustomed silence and padded across the room to look out of the window. It was still dark and he could only see shadows so he closed the curtains and put on the light. Glancing at his watch, he saw that it was only five o’clock, too early to go for a bath or he might wake someone up.

Looking round the room, he noticed a bookcase and went across to find a book to read for an hour. He wrinkled his nose as he saw the predictable rows of Tolstoy, Dickens and similar classics and continued searching along the shelves. He was relieved to see some lighter novels and his hand was poised to extract a copy of ‘The Inimitable Jeeves’, when his eye was caught by a book lying askew on the top of the shelves. A crudely drawn and illustrated map adorned the cover and he picked it up, intrigued.

Looking inside the front cover, on the inside flap, he read :

‘This is a story of two families of children, with a couple of sailing boats on a lake. There is a camp on an island …..’

He returned to his bed and, pulling the covers up, began to read.

He was still reading and chuckling from time to time when a knock came at the door. Returning to the present, he looked up as it opened and Hugh appeared carrying a steaming mug of tea.

“It’s six o’clock. I think you’d better get moving. I’ll have toast ready in the refectory by the time you get downstairs.”

He caught sight of the book in Mike’s hand.

“So that’s where it went! We’ve looked for that everywhere – I knew we were a copy short.”

Mike flushed. “It was on the top of the bookcase and I couldn’t face Tolstoy at this hour of the morning!”

“You’re in good company then. I reckon Sir Julian must have been reading it when he was last here. It’s good isn’t it. All the boys love it.”

“I guess I’m going to have to find a copy somewhere. It may have been written for children but it’s got a freshness about it I like.”

“Take it with you and send it back when you’ve finished it. We’ve several copies. There isn’t time now but I’ll tell you about where it is set when I write next.”

Mike put the book carefully by his knapsack. “Thanks. I’ll take care of it.”

Hugh left him to get ready and Mike was downstairs in short order and, after wolfing down a couple of slices of toast, went out with a torch to fill the jeep.

Hugh went out with him and, watched as he unhooked the jerry can from the back, looking round the vehicle in puzzlement.

“Where’s the filler cap?”

Mike tapped the side of his nose, mysteriously. “You’ll never guess.”

He took the pad off the seat and Hugh’s jaw dropped as the filler cap was revealed.

“You’re sitting right on top of the petrol tank!”

“I guess they thought it was the safest place. A direct hit on the tank wouldn’t worry the driver much anyway. He’d have bought the farm as it went through him. I’ve plenty of gas to get me home. The other can is still half full.”

At this point John came out wearing his walking boots and plus fours with a large rucksack on his back.

“Good morning. Are we all right for petrol?”

“No problem. Are you all set?”

John slung his rucksack onto the back seat and climbed in. “I’m ready. I’ll be back on Sunday, Hugh. You’ll be gone by then but Paul should arrive Friday before you leave. Have good holidays.”

“I will. You have a good break, too.”

Mike turned to Hugh. “I’ll send the book back safely. You take care now.”

“And you. It’s been great to see you.” They were just shaking hands when the front door opened and nine boys, clad in dressing gowns and slippers, came running down the steps, followed by Charles, similarly attired and looking distinctly drowsy. Charles closed the door and followed them down the steps.

“Keep back you lot. You said goodbye last night. We’re only here to wave them off. We mustn’t delay them.”

The boys stood in a group, grinning at the surprise on Mike’s face.

Smiling broadly, he pulled his leather helmet on and saluted them. Receiving a decidedly ragged salute in return he turned and leapt into the jeep, gunned the starter and drove off, muttering to John “Let’s get out of here before I burst into tears.”

They set off down the drive with Mike sounding a cacophony on the horn and cheers following them as they went.


And so we say farewell to Mike and despatch the Mike bunny back to his rightful owner, staggering slightly and clutching a shopping bag laden with Scotch. Hopping along behind are two quite young little does (similarly laden) and eager to nibble at Josie's toes with tales of Hugh and Reg as soon as they are old enough.

 

#199:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 6:11 pm

Josie wrote:
Laura wrote:
Thanks Pat. Mike is absolutely great - but there isn't any chance we could witness his romance with Corney, is there? *hopeful*


You will, Laura, but it'll be me writing it as a spin-off from A Second Chance. It's already half written - I started it when I first mentioned Mike and wrote about their meeting near the beginning of A Second Chance, I just haven't got round to posting it yet. Embarassed



I look forward to it!

Thanks Patmac, for another great installment Very Happy

 

#200:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Jul 06, 2005 6:29 pm

Thanks Pat

That was a lovely end to Mike's visit

*hope he gets safely back to Josie with those does*

Liz

 

The CBB -> Ste Therese's House


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