The CBB :: View topic - A Pharmacist on the Gornetz Platz

#1: A Pharmacist on the Gornetz Platz Author: Alex, Location: Manchester, UK

Posted: Sat May 07, 2005 2:43 pm

I have started this drabble in an attempt to rectify what I see as a sad lack in the staffing situation at the San. I've put it in St Agnes, although I'm not sure if it really fits as it's probably not going to be that much about the school. It's set at the same time as Althea and Prefects. However, I don't have a complete plan for where it's going so we'll all just have to wait and see...

Chapter 1 - Kate

Kate Miller folded the last of her blouses into the trunk. “I think that’s everything,” she said to herself. Looking around the now bare room which had been her home for the past two years, she gave a small sigh. She wondered what her new room would be like. Hospital residences were pretty much the same the world over, she supposed. She would soon find out. Lost in her thoughts, she jumped when a head appeared in the doorway and a cheery voice asked, “Are you all packed up then?”

“Emma! What are you doing up? I thought you were on nights this week!” Emma Lazenby was a nurse in the same hospital where Kate was a pharmacist. They both lived in the nurses’ residences.

“I am,” replied Emma, “but I couldn’t let you go off to Switzerland without saying goodbye, could I? This is just like staying up very late.” She paused. “I still think leaving the country is rather extreme.”

Kate turned and faced her friend. “We’ve been through this enough times, Em. I probably wouldn’t have left the country if this job hadn’t been exactly what I wanted.”

“You wouldn’t be leaving the hospital at all if it wasn’t for…” Emma looked at the expression on Kate’s face and broke off. “I’m sorry, Kate, I didn’t mean to upset you. I know that it’s better for you to be away from here.”

Kate frowned. “You do believe me when I say this isn’t 100% running away? It is about the job as well.”

Emma nodded, then grinned suddenly, “I don’t know why I’m complaining. I’ve got somewhere good to go on holiday now, haven’t I!”

“I’ll hold you to that, mind,” said Kate, with a relieved smile. “I think we’ve got time for a cup of tea before my taxi arrives.”

ETA Well spotted Lesley! Embarassed

Last edited by Alex on Sun Dec 18, 2005 6:43 pm; edited 56 times in total

#2: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Sat May 07, 2005 2:53 pm

Good start Alex, although you don't quite seem to have posted enough...!

#3: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat May 07, 2005 3:33 pm

Echoes Kat, that wasn't nearly enough. Complains about the early cliff, too.

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

Posted: Sat May 07, 2005 3:49 pm

Ooooh! Looking good!

Is her name Kate or Katrin though?

Thanks Alex. Laughing

#5: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Sat May 07, 2005 4:31 pm

I like this Alex! I echo the others in there not being enough yet though!

(incidentally, one of my best friends is called Kate Miller - got a bit of a shock to see her name in a drabble! Smile

)

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

Posted: Sat May 07, 2005 5:23 pm

A smidge. As you asked so nicely and I'm skiving off revising.

Emma yawned her agreement, so they left Kate’s room and headed for the tiny kitchen which they shared with four others. They were still in the kitchen when the doorbell rang. Kate looked at Emma ruefully, “Time to go.” Impulsively, Kate hugged her friend.

“Thanks for everything, Em. I honestly don’t know how I would have got through these last few months without you.”

If Emma was surprised at Kate’s uncharacteristic display of affection she had the wisdom not to say so, instead she hugged her friend tightly in return. “Take care of yourself, Kate. Let me know how you get on.” Kate merely nodded, suddenly she did not trust herself to speak.

In the taxi on the way to the station, Kate contemplated the events leading up to her departure, turning over the events in her mind as she had done regularly. I am doing the right thing, she thought to herself. She repeated the words out loud, more firmly, as if trying to convince herself. “What’s that, love?” asked the taxi driver. Kate shook her head. “It’s a long story,” she said.

#7: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Sat May 07, 2005 6:10 pm

OOOOOOH Nice. More please! Smile

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

Posted: Sat May 07, 2005 6:27 pm

This looks interesting! Very Happy

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

Posted: Sat May 07, 2005 6:56 pm

Thanks Alex - you don't really need to revise, do you? Wink

#10: Author: Liane, Location: Manchester

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 7:06 am

This looks good, please post more!

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

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 7:40 am

Yes this does look good! Thank you and more please!

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

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 10:15 am

Alex wrote:

“It’s a long story,” she said.

Ooooooh good - I like long stories.

Thanks Alex. Looking forward to more when you need another break from revising (you are aware you should take frequent breaks aren't you Wink

)

Liz

#13: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 2:33 pm

*Nids and agrees with Liz*

Frequent breaks are vair necessary!

Wink

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

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 2:41 pm

more more more

please?

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

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 2:58 pm

I've got a biology test tomorrow, an exam on Tuesday and a biochemistry test on Friday. After that, the "official" exam period begins.

I only have pbs of Althea and Prefects. "The Bachofen girl" is mentioned in Prefects but I've invented her first name. If there's more info about her in the hb that I don't have please excuse any inconsistencies.

Chapter 2 – Joey

Jo Maynard had spent an unproductive morning working on her latest book. A welcome interruption had come in the shape of her friend Hilda Annersley, who had persuaded her to look after a new Chalet School pupil before the beginning of term. After lunch, Joey had struggled with her work for another few hours, during which time she had succeeded to write the grand sum of one paragraph, which she had then decided was no good and had scratched it out. Giving work up as a bad job, she had decided to oversee tea in the nursery for her youngest children: the twins Phil and Geoff, and her youngest ward Claire. This task was normally left to the co-adjutor, and for once Jo wished she had left it to her. Master Geoff was in a thorough temper for some reason and Joey had wound up by sending him to bed early. He was still awake when she tucked the other two into bed later, but was most repentant and soon settled down to sleep.

After tea, Jo had attempted to speak to the youngest triplet, Margot, who had been behaving rather oddly lately. Jo had her own suspicions as to the reason, but Margot refused to be drawn. By the time Dr Maynard arrived home at 20 o’clock, Jo was rather hungry, having waited to have supper with him, and equally disgruntled.

“Bad day?” Jo asked her husband at the sight of his weary face. “New patient,” he said. “Anya Bachofen. The poor girl is dying, we could have done something for her if she’d come to us, even three months ago, but I really think it’s too late. The reason she didn’t come before is because her parents fear she might be kidnapped and they didn’t think the security could be managed. Now, they’ve finally realised that she is far more seriously ill than they believed, although they haven’t quite realised how ill she is. She really deserves to be told the truth. On top of that, a pipe has burst in the new staff accommodation chalet and the place won’t be habitable for a fortnight.”

#16: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 3:14 pm

Yay, Nice to see another post. Very Happy

Good luck with the tests and exams. And remember, when you need a break from revision, what better way to do it than to prepare and post another bit of shiny drabble! Seriously though, its great.

#17: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 3:35 pm

Thanks Alex!

Hope your tests and exam go well this week!

#18: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 3:44 pm

Lovely Alex, thank you!

good Luck with your exams and tests! Of course that means that once they're done you can write lots and lots yes??

Hannah

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

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 3:58 pm

I'm really enjoying this Alex, thank you.

Good luck with your tests and exams.

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

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 4:00 pm

Thank you Alex. Laughing

#21: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 5:05 pm

I've just found this shiny new drabble!

Good luck with all the nasty tests and things.

Looking forward to more.

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

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 7:09 pm

Good luck with all the tests and exams and everything, Alex. *crosses fingers*

#23: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 7:18 pm

Good luck with the exams and loving the drabble.

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

Posted: Sun May 08, 2005 9:41 pm

Thanks Alex. Hope all goes well with the tests, exams and other horrible things

Liz

#25: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 1:21 am

Thanks, Alex. Most interesting! Is it Kate's putative accommodation that's under water?

Good luck with exams and such-

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

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 11:55 am

Joey immediately felt guilty about her own mood and bent all her efforts to comforting Jack. “Come and have some supper. You’ll feel better then.” He followed her into the kitchen where she retrieved two plates of food which were being kept warm in the oven. “There’s half a bottle of wine in the fridge if you’d like a glass?”

Jack found the bottle himself, and placed two glasses on the kitchen table. They ate in silence for a few minutes. “You’re right,” said Jack, eventually. “I do feel a lot better.” He eyed his wife uncertainly. Joey had known him long enough to pick up on this.

“Spill,” she directed him.

“It’s the staff chalet,” he said slowly. “It’s not too bad, as there isn’t anyone living there, and most of the new staff aren’t starting for a month, but the pharmacist is coming tomorrow, and the other staff chalet is full to bursting.”

#27: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 12:08 pm

Oooooh. Joey looking nice so far. What a nice change Smile

*wonders how the drabble is going to progress... Decides to wait and see*

#28: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 1:18 pm

Is Joey going to offer Kate a place to stay at Freudesheim? (sp?!)

Thanks Alex!

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

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 4:14 pm

Thank you Alex, will Katie want to stay at the house of the Director of the hospital? Shocked

#30: Author: keren, Location: Israel

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 6:11 pm

This is a nice drabble

#31: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 7:02 pm

Thank you for the glittery drabble, Alex. I hope the tests/exams went well today.

#32: Author: Liane, Location: Manchester

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 8:07 pm

Thank you for the update. Hope the exams went ok.

#33: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 8:40 pm

A shiny new drabble and I hadn't even seen it! That'll teach me to go away for a weekend Smile

Thanks Alex! I hope the exams and everything aren't too stressful

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

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 9:47 pm

I hope Joey's nice in this drabble!!!!

Otherwise Kate's time at Freudesheim might be interesting.

#35: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Mon May 09, 2005 10:39 pm

ooo, excellent!
More please! Very Happy

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

Posted: Tue May 10, 2005 11:42 am

I'm sorry this is progressing so slowly, I have got a bit more written but I'm struggling to put anything down at the moment as I am so angry - my flatmate's stalker seems to think he'll stand more of a chance with her if he hassles me as well. If anyone wants to read a very entertaining email...

As for Contergan (see below), this was nearly a very different drabble but I couldn't make the dates fit where I wanted them to. Google has plenty of information - given Jack's tendency to sedate his wife I think we can only hope that they didn't have any more children.

“It seems we’re to become a home for waifs and strays!” exclaimed Jo with a chuckle, and then filled him in on the situation with Althea Glenyon. “What does the San need with a pharmacist anyway? You don’t sell medicines.”

“Pharmacists do more than just sell medicines,” he said with a smile. “Healthcare is becoming more about professionals other than doctors working together for the patient’s benefit. You know that anyway, from Phil’s physiotherapy. There are so many new medicines coming onto the market, it’s impossible for me to keep track of them all, so it makes sense for me to employ someone who can. Why, only this morning I had some post from a German company about their new wonder-drug, something called Contergan.”

“So you want us to look after this pharmacist. What time does his train get in?”

“Her train is due in Interlaken at about 11 tomorrow morning. Reg Entwhistle is going to meet her. I imagine she’ll be here in time for lunch.”

ETA: I've had one test and an exam so far and they seem to be fine. Last test is on Friday (wibble) and then the official exam period begins, during which time I have SEVEN exams. For some reason my lecturers seem to think that it's helpful to quote the failure rate for their module.

#37: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Tue May 10, 2005 12:23 pm

Interesting! I'm wondering how Joey is going to take to having a female professional working at the san...!!

Thanks Alex Smile

(And lecturers do seem to have a habbit of pointing out the most useless and unhelpful information they know Rolling Eyes

Shouldn't they be more concerned about how crap they must be as teachers if their fail rates are so high?! *Hugs to keep you going*)

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

Posted: Tue May 10, 2005 12:27 pm

Thanks for the update Alex.

Hope you can get rid of the stalker without a load of hassle.

Glad the tests/exams are ok so far - hope the continue to be.

Liz

#39: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue May 10, 2005 12:32 pm

This is fab - please write some more!
Also hope exams are ok - good luck! Smile

#40: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Tue May 10, 2005 12:43 pm

the stalker!!!! Hope you get the chance for a break soon. and lecturers Rolling Eyes

sometimes I wonder about them! I seem to be relatively lucky with my lot this year. good luck with the exams, and if the drabbling is another thing on top of it all rather than a nice break from it then dont worry about it til after it is done. Shiney though it is, more than willing to wait Very Happy

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

Posted: Tue May 10, 2005 7:36 pm

Thanks Alex - also interested in Joey's reaction to a female professional working at the San.

And hugs for your ordeal with stalker - hope you can get something done soon.

#42: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Tue May 10, 2005 8:07 pm

Thank you Alex- Have I got a wicked mind or does Jack have an ulterier motive inviting her to stay? Twisted Evil

#43: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Tue May 10, 2005 8:15 pm

Nikkie! This is not Anonybunny's drabble!!! Laughing

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

Posted: Tue May 10, 2005 10:23 pm

Nikkie, I am shocked! That had never occurred to me. And it wasn't what I meant about originally planning a different drabble.

#45: Author: keren, Location: Israel

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 7:35 am

Alex wrote:

As for Contergan (see below), this was nearly a very different drabble but I couldn't make the dates fit where I wanted them to. Google has plenty of information - given Jack's tendency to sedate his wife I think we can only hope that they didn't have any more children.

Why, only this morning I had some post from a German company about their new wonder-drug, something called Contergan.”

“.”

ETA: I've had one test and an exam so far and they seem to be fine. Last .

For English people that drug is the one we know as:
Thalidomide

creepy, to think, it says on google it was a sleeping drug.
He could have easily have given her the newest drug against nausea, in the 50s or 60s................
And you would indeed have had another drabble!

#46: Author: Liane, Location: Manchester

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 7:39 am

Thanks for the update. Hope Joey will be OK with a woman at the san. *huggles* and don't worry to much about your exams, poke

to the stalker (I had one once) and as for appologising that this is going too slow, it's going faster than some drabbles so don't worry. I'm going to shut up now and let someone else talk!

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

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 11:06 am

Chapter 3 – Kate arrives

The abridged Maynards, consisting of Joey, Jack, Margot, Felicity, Cecil, the second twins, Erica-Jane Standish and little Claire, had their breakfast at their usual early hour. Once everyone had been equipped with coffee, porridge, toast, honey and whatever else they might require Jo enquired after their plans for the day.

“I need to finish my holiday task,” announced Erica-Jane rather gloomily.

“The Mayor of Casterbridge, isn’t it?” asked Joey.

“It’s fearfully depressing,” said Erica. “Nothing goes right for any of them. Why did the stupid man have to sell his wife anyway?”

“You’re more than half way through now, aren’t you?” interrupted Joey firmly. “You can finish it by the weekend if you persevere.”

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

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 11:12 am

Thanks Alex really liking this so far

#49: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 12:17 pm

I'm liking Joey here.

the ref to thalidomide is very apt! Shocked

I hope the stalker problem is sorted soon. That sort of thing is very unsettling.

As Squirrel says, we can wait for more while you deal with the dreaded exams. Good luck with them.

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

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 12:17 pm

Thanks Alex, this is looking vair interesting so far.

And thanks Keren for the explanation.

Good luck with the exams Alex.

JackieJ

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

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 12:33 pm

I like the description "the abridged Maynards" Very Happy

Thanks Alex

Liz

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

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 3:40 pm

*seconds LizB*

Loving this so far, Alex. Best of luck with the exams!

#53: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 3:54 pm

keren wrote:

For English people that drug is the one we know as:
Thalidomide

Does this apply to the Scottish, Welsh, Irish etc too? Sorry, being a pedantic arse I know! Laughing

Thanks for the update Alex Very Happy

#54: Author: keren, Location: Israel

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 8:40 pm

Kat wrote:

keren wrote:

For English people that drug is the one we know as:
Thalidomide

Does this apply to the Scottish, Welsh, Irish etc too? Sorry, being a pedantic arse I know! Laughing

Thanks for the update Alex Very Happy

Sorry sorry sorry
grovel grovel grovel.
I have not lived in England for over 20 years, so I am less sensitive to these nuances/PC stuff.
I should have said british, but there might have been something wrong with that too Smile

#55: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 8:42 pm

We call it thalidomide as well. Very Happy

Really liking the Maynard interactions so far! It'll be interesting to see how Kate fits into the madhouse, though. And whether Joey et al will winkle out whatever prompted her running away (OK, not 100% running away) to Switzerland.

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

Posted: Wed May 11, 2005 8:59 pm

We call it thalidomide too (Australia). My mum had one dose and said no more as it made her feel nauseous. Luckily.

Keren, I really like this!

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

Posted: Thu May 12, 2005 11:54 am

Thalidomide is the non-proprietry name of the drug (as in ibuprofen vs nurofen) that was marketed as Distaval, Tensival, Asmaval, Valgis and Valgrainein the UK and as Contergan in Germany. In total it was marketed under 51 names in Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and America between 1957 and 1962.

Thalidomide was marketed as being safe for use in pregnancy and is often cited by anti-vivisectionists in arguments that animal testing does not prove safety. However, although thalidomide was tested on rats and mice it was not tested on pregnant rats and mice at that time. Later tests demonstrated that birth defects resulted when given to pregnant rodents.

The thalidomide tragedy led to changes in licensing of medicines (UK Medicines Act 1968). Thalidomide is still used for research and has been used to treat leprosy.

Sophoife, I'm glad you're enjoying it! Wink

Erica nodded glumly. It transpired that the rest of the family were free for the day once they had finished their chores.

“Margot, will you help me prepare the room opposite yours, when you’ve finished.”

“Of course, Mother,” was all Margot said, although the rest of the family immediately clamoured to know who the visitor was to be.

“There’s a problem with the new staff accommodation at the San,” explained their father, “so Miss Miller, the new pharmacist, is going to be staying with us for a couple of weeks. I must be off.” Dr Maynard kissed his wife, reminded her that Reg and Kate would arrive at lunchtime, declined to kiss any sticky offspring and departed.

#58: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu May 12, 2005 12:00 pm

Thanks Alex.

I loved

Quote:

declined to kiss any sticky offspring

If I had been subject to morning sickness, I might well have been prescribed Thalidomide under one of it's proprietory names as my elder daughter would have fitted that time period. Scary thought.

#59: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Thu May 12, 2005 2:22 pm

keren wrote:

Kat wrote:

keren wrote:

For English people that drug is the one we know as:
Thalidomide

Does this apply to the Scottish, Welsh, Irish etc too? Sorry, being a pedantic arse I know! Laughing

Thanks for the update Alex Very Happy

We'll forgive you Keren! Laughing

Thanks for the update Alex!

#60: Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough

Posted: Thu May 12, 2005 5:06 pm

This is very interesting, Alex. I loved Erica's summary of The Mayor of Casterbridge Wink

Thank-you.

#61: Author: Rachel, Location: West Coast of Scotland

Posted: Thu May 12, 2005 6:18 pm

Alex, this is fascinating!

I think some of your explanations about Thalidomide are almost as interesting as the story! But more story is always most welcome Wink

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

Posted: Thu May 12, 2005 7:45 pm

Thanks Alex - interesting reading about Thalidomide too!

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

Posted: Fri May 13, 2005 5:04 am

Just found this. Alex, I hope your exams have all gone brilliantly so you can write some more for us. I'm looking forward to it when you can!

#64: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri May 13, 2005 12:45 pm

Hope that the exams are going well, and that you can relax after them.

Loved the Abridged Maynards, BTW!

#65: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Fri May 13, 2005 4:18 pm

The Abridged Maynards got a big smile from me too, great phrase!

I hope exams are going ok and not getting you too stressed Alex *offers tea and cookies to aid revision*

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

Posted: Fri May 13, 2005 5:10 pm

This is about all I've written so how regularly it comes from now on is going to be a bit of a lottery. This week's tests and exam were fine apart from this morning's which was a bit on the tricky side Confused

but not too bad. Official exam period begins next Thursday, so I should get something written, especially as the stalking situation appears to have had a line drawn under it. Here's hoping. Rolling Eyes

Meanwhile, Kate had arrived in Basle, been through Customs, had breakfast - including delicious black cherry jam - and caught her train to Interlaken with ease. She alternately read her novel and dozed, having slept badly on the overnight train. Eventually the train slowed for the approach into Interlaken. When it drew to a halt Kate stepped down onto the platform and looked around for her escort.

The platform was virtually deserted. Apart from a young woman, who almost immediately ran forward to greet a young man, removing any ideas Kate might have had that this was the person she should be meeting, the others present were all clearly waiting for another train for whatever reason. Gathering her coat and her case together she headed for the main concourse of the station, but before reached it she was intercepted by a tall stranger.

“Miss Miller? I’m Dr Entwhistle.” Kate shook the proffered hand. They gave each other a quick once over, each hoping the other didn’t notice. Reg saw that Kate was quite young, in her early twenties perhaps. He admired her smart attire and air of confidence; her petite build and closely cropped dark hair gave her a pixie-like appearance. He also noticed the shadows under her eyes, they looked darker than being merely the result of one interrupted night on a train. Kate had to look up to Reg, he was much taller than her, but it was difficult to estimate height from her vantage point. She thought he looked kind, but there was something about his expression which suggested preoccupation. Probably just the result of having to take time out of his day to fetch a new staff member, she decided.

#67: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Fri May 13, 2005 6:03 pm

Thanks, this is a great drabble! Very Happy

#68: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Fri May 13, 2005 6:18 pm

hmmm...i'm sensing potential trouble...

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

Posted: Fri May 13, 2005 8:16 pm

I'm sensing the same!

Thanks Alex.

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

Posted: Fri May 13, 2005 9:18 pm

oho! love interest here....maybe....

we'd love more when you get the time, alex. but no pressure!

#71: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Sat May 14, 2005 2:18 pm

Preoccupation? That doesn't sounds great and we already know there's something going on with Kate.

Thanks Alex, people who drabble with exams close are amazing in my books!

#72: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat May 14, 2005 2:35 pm

Mmmmmmmmmm!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! There may be trouble ahead, but while there's..............................

#73: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Sat May 14, 2005 3:01 pm

Thank you Alex! I am muchly enjoying this drabble!

I too spy trouble ahead with Mr Entwhistle admiring her

Quote:

smart attire and air of confidence; her petite build and closely cropped dark hair gave her a pixie-like appearance.

hmmmmmm....

Goodluck with the remaining "dooms" as Pim would say! Very Happy

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

Posted: Sat May 14, 2005 6:06 pm

Thank you Alex! I too spy trouble ahead Smile

Good luck with the exams!

#75: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Sat May 14, 2005 6:22 pm

Thank you for posting more and good luck in the exams.

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

Posted: Sun May 15, 2005 3:55 pm

You lot do have nasty suspicious minds. Incidently, we seem to have seen off the stalker. Not much I'm afraid, Colloidal Dispersions is beckoning.

“I hope you had a good journey,” Reg inquired, as they set off to arrange for Kate’s trunk to be transported the Platz.

“It was fine, thank you,” said Kate with a smile. “I can’t believe I’m really here.” As Kate and Reg both spoke fluent German the arrangements were easily made, and Kate’s luggage would arrive the following morning on the mountain train.

“Interlaken,” said Reg, waving a hand generally, once they were outside the station. “I’m sure you’ll have plenty of opportunity to explore at weekends. The car’s this way.”

Kate obediently followed him to the car, where she was soon settled comfortably. They drove through Interlaken and its outskirts before beginning the ascent to the Platz. Reg was a good driver and negotiated the winding road with ease.

“Is this the only road up?” asked Kate, after they had travelled some distance in silence.

“This is the old road, there’s a newer one which the ambulances use,” explained Reg. “It shouldn’t be long before we reach Freudesheim now,” he added.

“Freudesheim?”

#77: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun May 15, 2005 4:03 pm

Good news about the stalker, but what are Colloidal Dispersions? They sound very painful.

#78: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Sun May 15, 2005 4:17 pm

Thanks Alex... another sensing love between Reg and Kate.... poor Len!! Twisted Evil

#79: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Sun May 15, 2005 7:07 pm

Alex wrote:

“Freudesheim?”

Uh-oh No one warned her?
Thanks Alex

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

Posted: Sun May 15, 2005 7:19 pm

Thank you Alex. Hope Joey isn't too overwhelming for Kate.

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

Posted: Sun May 15, 2005 8:11 pm

she does know where she's going, doesn't she?!!!

thank you, alex. good luck with exams and revision

#82: Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge

Posted: Mon May 16, 2005 8:24 am

I'm also amazed that you're managing to drabble at exam time, Alex.

I hope the colloidal dispersions aren't as painful as they sound.

#83: Author: Emma A, Location: The Soke of Peterborough

Posted: Mon May 16, 2005 11:55 am

This is very interesting, Alex. Looking forward to more when you can spare the time.
Good luck for your exams (amazed that you can drabble and revise at the same time!). How can you have an entire paper on dispersion of colloids? A bit of detergent usually works fine! Wink

#84: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon May 16, 2005 2:21 pm

Yes, I just wonder how Jo will react to a professional woman who isn't a nurse, given that she expects all good CS girls to give up their careers whan a man hoves into view.

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

Posted: Mon May 16, 2005 2:57 pm

A colloid (or colloidal dispersion) is a system consisting of two phases (ie solid, liquid, gas), one dispersed in the other. Colloids of pharmaceutical relevance include aerosols (solid/liquid in gas eg. inhalations), emulsions (liquid in liquid) and solutions (solid in liquid eg. antibiotic liquid). However, colloids you might be more familiar with are milk, salad dressing, sponges (gas in solid) and foam (gas in liquid). I bet you're really glad you asked now aren't you. Doom 1 (which is really Doom 2) is said Colloidal Dispersions and is on Thursday but I won't carry on as it's starting to sound like my exam timetable was published by Armada.

“Dr Maynard’s home. I should have mentioned it earlier. I’m afraid there was a flood in the new accommodation, where you are to live, and it won’t be habitable for a fortnight. So Dr and Mrs Maynard are going to put you up. There really wasn’t anywhere else.”

Kate bit her lip at this news. All the initial complications of starting a new job would now be compounded by the fact that she would be living with her employer.

Reg saw the expression on her face but misinterpreted it.

“Don’t worry. It’s no trouble at all, Joey – Mrs Maynard – always says the more the merrier. Most of the children are away at the moment so there’s plenty of room.”

Kate nodded mutely. It was clear that Dr Entwhistle thought very highly of the Maynards and regarded them as friends. Oh well. She would just have to make the best of it, and it was only for a fortnight after all.

#86: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Mon May 16, 2005 2:59 pm

Eek poor Kate, hope everything is ok for her at Freudesheim...

Stoopid Reg!

#87: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon May 16, 2005 3:44 pm

Which sort of Jo are we to see in this drabble? A lot depends on that.

I must admit moving in with your boss when you start a new job does NOT appeal!

#88: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Mon May 16, 2005 4:39 pm

Thanks Alex.

*wibbling on kate's behalf*

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

Posted: Mon May 16, 2005 4:48 pm

*would not like to have to move in with boss when starting new job*

Thanks Alex

Liz

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

Posted: Mon May 16, 2005 7:10 pm

Feeling sorry for Kate - not a good start to her new job.

Thanks Alex.

#91: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon May 16, 2005 7:43 pm

Thanks, Alex, for more drabble and for explaining colloids in a way that I can understand.

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

Posted: Tue May 17, 2005 3:55 am

LizB wrote:

*would not like to have to move in with boss when starting new job*

Would not like to move in with the boss At All.

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

Posted: Tue May 17, 2005 6:47 pm

“Where did you work before?” asked Reg, interrupting her thoughts.

“London,” said Kate briefly. “I was at university there, and I did my pre-reg year at a hospital nearby and then they offered me a permanent contract.”

“Pre-reg?” asked Reg.

Kate explained, “To qualify as a pharmacist, you have to complete a pharmacy degree – a BPharm – and then one year of pre-registration work, where you learn how to actually do the job, at the end of which you have to take an exam and if you pass you can register with the RPSGB, sorry, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society. You can only practice pharmacy if you’re on the register. As I said, I did my pre-reg and then they offered me a job, so I was there for four years altogether. It’ll be strange to be somewhere else, but I am very excited about setting up the pharmacy.”

“I’ve been at the San for some time now, I’ll be happy to give you a hand if you have any problems at first,” said Reg.

“Thanks, Dr Entwhistle,” said Kate, touched by the unnecessary offer.

“No problem, and you’d better call me Reg. Everyone else does.”

“Kate,” said the owner of that name with a smile.

Note: The BPharm is now an MPharm and takes four years to complete rather than three, except at Bradford University where it takes five years as they complete their pre-reg in two 6 month blocks during their course.

#94: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue May 17, 2005 6:52 pm

Excellent, more! Thanks for posting, you have cheered me up!! Very Happy

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

Posted: Tue May 17, 2005 7:50 pm

Thanks Alex Very Happy

Liz

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

Posted: Tue May 17, 2005 9:01 pm

lovely, thank you alex - i know nothing about pharmacy so this is very educational and informative!!!

#97: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Wed May 18, 2005 2:44 pm

Thanks Alex!

At least Reg will be a friendly face for Kate if she finds it hard living at the Maynards.

#98: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Wed May 18, 2005 3:36 pm

Too friendly maybe?! Twisted Evil

Thank you Alex - and for the ad-info!

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

Posted: Wed May 18, 2005 5:42 pm

“Kate it is,” agreed Reg. “Almost there now. This is the school.” He indicated the buildings they were passing. “Freudesheim is just beyond.”

“A school!” exclaimed Kate.

“It’s not as bizarre as it sounds. The School and the Sanatorium were established here together – the girls are often here because they have relatives at the San. It means they can be near their family, and also their health can be kept a close eye on, just in case. In fact, some of them come here because they have poor health and they can be under medical supervision, and of course, get plenty of fresh air and exercise.”

“I remember now, the school was mentioned in the information Dr Maynard sent me when he offered me the position.”

“Actually, there’s another school up here as well, on the other end of the Platz at St Cecile.”

As he said this, Reg brought the car to a halt outside a large house with many windows.

“This is Freudesheim,” he said. “Your home for the next couple of weeks.”

#100: Author: Rachel, Location: West Coast of Scotland

Posted: Wed May 18, 2005 5:42 pm

I am learning so much from this drabble!

Hope Kate doesn't find life too tricky at Freudesheim - and try to remember WHICH forum we are in people! St Agnes doesn't go in for kinky stuff!

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

Posted: Wed May 18, 2005 7:40 pm

Another school!!! What's the why of that then? Confused

#102: Author: nikkie, Location: Cumbria

Posted: Wed May 18, 2005 7:54 pm

Alice wrote:

Another school!!! What's the why of that then? Confused

My thoughts too. Confused

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

Posted: Wed May 18, 2005 7:56 pm

That would be St Hilda's. EBD put it there, not me.

#104: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Wed May 18, 2005 9:07 pm

*giggles*

Thanks again Alex - can't wait to see her response to Joey!

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

Posted: Wed May 18, 2005 9:38 pm

I never thought about the staff at the san finding the school odd!!!

Thanks for the update, Alex!

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

Posted: Thu May 19, 2005 6:09 pm

Alex wrote:

That would be St Hilda's. EBD put it there, not me.

Love that reply!!!! Laughing

Thanks Alex verrrrry interesting.

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

Posted: Thu May 19, 2005 9:21 pm

Kate climbed out of the car, stretched her arms and legs, and found herself yawning, much to her embarrassment and Reg’s amusement.

“Sorry,” she said, flushing. “It’s all that sitting down.”

Reg laughed. “Don’t worry about it. This way.” He picked up her case and led her round the side of the house to the stairs which led up to the front door of the house. A tall lady with dark hair in a most unusual style, which nonetheless suited her (Kate realised this with some surprise as her initial reaction had been one of bewilderment at all the plaits), was at the door to greet them.

Joey Maynard, in her role as Mrs-Maynard-the-wife-of-the-Head-of-the-Sanatorium, shook hands with Kate when Reg had made introductions. “Welcome to Switzerland, Miss Miller, and to Freudesheim. Please come in. Are you staying to lunch, Reg?”

“Thanks, Joey, but I need to get back to the San,” said Reg. “I’ll see you tomorrow, Kate.”

“Thank you for meeting me, Reg,” Kate smiled at her new friend who departed cheerfully.

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

Posted: Thu May 19, 2005 9:36 pm

That seems a very formal Joey - unusual!

Thanks Alex.

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

Posted: Fri May 20, 2005 3:56 am

Does that mean she is wearing her pearls with her lime green twinset?

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

Posted: Fri May 20, 2005 6:48 am

But this is her husband's employee she's welcoming, so maybe she should be formal at least for a little while.

By the time Kate's been bowled over by Bruno I'm sure they'll be on first name terms Very Happy

Thanks Alex

Liz

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

Posted: Fri May 20, 2005 8:54 pm

LizB wrote:

By the time Kate's been bowled over by Bruno I'm sure they'll be on first name terms.

Thanks, Liz, I was wondering how to get Jo to relax a bit but you inspired me!

Chapter 4 – Settling In

Dear Emma,

I’ve been here a nearly a week now, so I thought I should write and tell you all about everything, before it starts to get really hectic.

The journey here was fine, I was met at Interlaken by one of the doctors, Reg Entwhistle (what sort of a name is that? But he seems like a nice guy so I’ll let him off!), who drove me up to the Gornetz Platz where the San (as everyone call is) is. Unfortunately something is wrong with the staff accommodation so I am staying with Dr and Mrs Maynard for a couple of weeks until it is sorted out. I was not terribly thrilled when Reg told me about this little change in plans, but it has worked out better than I expected. Mrs Maynard was clearly on her best behaviour at first and trying to be proper (which it turns out is not something she does very well) and even raised her eyebrows a little when I called Reg ‘Reg’ instead of ‘Dr Entwhistle’. However, I’d literally just walked in the front door when her massive St. Bernard launched himself at me. For such an enormous dog he moves very quietly and I didn’t hear him coming. I noticed my shoelace had come undone so I crouched down to tie it up just as Bruno took off, the result being that he sailed clean over my head and skidded along the polished wooden floor and just managed to bring himself to a halt before he hit the wall, with the most confused look I’ve ever seen on a dog’s face. Mrs Maynard just burst out laughing – apparently I looked nearly as surprised as Bruno – and now we are Kate and Jo. Bruno has not quite forgiven me and looks at me with suspicion every time we meet. Dr Maynard still calls me Miss Miller, very properly, so I call him Dr Maynard, equally properly.

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

Posted: Fri May 20, 2005 9:06 pm

Awww! Poor Bruno! Very Happy

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

Posted: Fri May 20, 2005 9:21 pm

LOLOLOLOL!

Awwww Poor Bruno!!!

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

Posted: Fri May 20, 2005 9:21 pm

Nice that it broke the ice though!

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

Posted: Fri May 20, 2005 11:15 pm

Alex wrote:

Reg Entwhistle (what sort of a name is that?

at all of it, but particularly that comment!

Thanks Alex (and glad to have been of help)

Liz

#116: Author: Rosie, Location: Huntingdonshire/Bangor

Posted: Sat May 21, 2005 1:14 am

Awww, poor Bruno!!!! I can just imagine his look of bewilderment!
Cheers Alex!

#117: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sat May 21, 2005 5:41 am

Perfect, Alex!
Good to see Kate settling in, and comfortable with Jo. Hope Bruno recovers soon. ROFL

#118: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sat May 21, 2005 7:32 am

That last post was brilliant! Laughing

Thank you Alex!

#119: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat May 21, 2005 1:17 pm

Thanks, Alex. I love the letters.

#120: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Sat May 21, 2005 11:08 pm

Very glad she's on first name terms with Jo already, should make life better for her. Also love the comment on Reg's name- it is a bit much really!

Thanks Alex

#121: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun May 22, 2005 7:26 am

Lovely! We're so used to Bruno bowling people off their feet as an ice breaker that it's nice to see a different way of using it!

Poor old Reg. Everyone seems to find his name funny.
Entwistle is a grand old Lancashire name and his family came from here:

http://www.entwistlefamily.org.uk/local_history.htm

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

Posted: Sun May 22, 2005 11:30 am

It's the Reg part I'm not so keen on myself....Anyway, here is some more of Kate's letter to Emma.

The Maynards have a vast family! Eleven children! Fortunately they weren’t all there when I arrived as four of the five boys have gone back to school in England and two of the triplets were away (yes that’s right I did say triplets) so there were only five of them left and the second twins are very small. In addition to this there are two more girls – one in her teens and the other a toddler – who are wards of the Maynards, and I’m assured that there are four others around somewhere (three of whom are actually related to each other) although I have yet to meet them. Anyway. The triplets are all 18 and about to begin their last term at school (which is next door, conveniently). Margot was the only one at home when I arrived and she doesn’t seem to be very chatty. I’m not sure that this is usual for her, more that she’s doing some very serious thinking (been there, done that, know the look). She went away for the weekend and Len and Con turned up yesterday, Len had brought a new pupil for the school – Althea - with her from Paris. That makes it sound like Len found Althea wandering the streets of the French capital which obviously isn’t what I met. I’m not sure why Althea had to come before term started (I’m told the big day is tomorrow) but as Jo says, “the more the merrier.” Len and Con are helping me practice my French which has turned out to be not quite up to the task (there are quite a lot of Swiss-French working at the San as well as some patients). My German is holding up well, I’m picking up the medical jargon quickly enough.

On Thursday (sorry, I got a bit distracted trying to relate the family), Jo showed me my room with intermittent giggles over the dog incident. At lunch I met those of the family who were present. I kept getting all their names mixed up at first but apart from occasionally calling Geoff ‘Phil’ (which is embarrassing as Phil is a girl!) I seem to be coping much better. Dr Maynard wasn’t home until dinner, but I met him when he interviewed me so I half knew what to expect.

#123: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun May 22, 2005 11:36 am

Wow, another installment, thank you Alex.

BTW: how are the dreaded exams going?

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

Posted: Sun May 22, 2005 1:20 pm

Thank you, love Kate's ideas on the Maynard family. Laughing

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

Posted: Sun May 22, 2005 1:36 pm

Thanks Alex - lovely to see an outide adult's impressions of the Maynard family.

Liz

#126: Author: macyrose, Location: Great White North (Canada)

Posted: Sun May 22, 2005 4:00 pm

I'm enjoying this story as my father is a pharmacist.

I'm missing a ward, though. I assume the teenager and toddler are Erica and Marie Claire and three of the other four wards are the Richardsons but who is the fourth ward?

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

Posted: Sun May 22, 2005 4:27 pm

Adrienne I think.
Really enjoying this Alex! Very Happy

#128: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Sun May 22, 2005 4:48 pm

Thank you Alex!

Vair shiny! Very Happy

#129: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Sun May 22, 2005 6:15 pm

Love the updates Alex, thank you!!

#130: Author: Mollio, Location: Ireland

Posted: Mon May 23, 2005 1:40 am

Enjoying this. Bet she gets her doctor in the end! (not Reg, though. He's spoken for.)

#131: Author: macyrose, Location: Great White North (Canada)

Posted: Mon May 23, 2005 2:20 am

Thanks Cazx. How could I have forgotten Adrienne?

#132: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon May 23, 2005 6:44 am

Lovely Alex. I like how she sees why Margot is preoccupied. I can also understand the confusion over Phil's name.

I'm glad you've given her a nice Maynard family. It would have been pretty awful for her if you hadn't.

#133: Author: keren, Location: Israel

Posted: Mon May 23, 2005 7:46 am

macyrose wrote:

Melanie?

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

Posted: Mon May 23, 2005 1:20 pm

Yes, the fourth ward is Adrienne who I'd forgotten all about as well, until I saw her mentioned in someone elses drabble (although I can't for the life of me remember whose is was), but there's no mention of her at the beginning of Althea so I'm assuming she's away visiting or similar.

There is a slight lull in exams at the moment. The next one is Cellular Biology and Biochemisty on Thursday. After that there's a gap until Tuesday at which point begins a run of 5 exams in 9 days. How much drabble will get written then is anybody's guess.

On Friday I went to the San with him, to do paperwork and meet everyone which I was rather scared about. They all turned out to be lovely (although all the doctors are men and all the nurses are women and I got the impression that some of them, doctors AND nurses, aren’t sure if I rank with the doctors or the nurses or if I’m some strange kind of hybrid breed) even the Matron is a sweetie, so there goes your theory about them all being dragons and not having names apart from Matron – her name is Helen. Jack got Reg to show me round and do introductions and I very firmly used the first names of everyone who called me Kate and the surnames of those who called me Miss Miller. The San is a beautiful building and the patients all seem well cared for. The doctors are all hugely dedicated – I suppose you’d have to be to work up here, as it is a little isolated in some ways. The pharmacy situation is no better than I expected – they do have a little room they call the dispensary which has a sink, they also have a slab and a balance - but the stock was all higgledy-piggledy and half of it seems to be several years old. There is a large room leading off it at the back which was full of junk, but I’ve nearly cleared it out now. I plan to make it into the store and have a corner for my office. I told Dr Maynard I would need more space for storing paperwork. He said he would find somewhere, but for a start I can have half a draw in the filing cabinet where they keep the rest of the records. Then I upset him by saying I wanted to have complete control of the dispensary keys until I’ve set up a system, because at the moment anyone can walk in and help themselves to whatever medicines they want. He agreed in the end (I was charmingly persuasive) that it was impossible to achieve stock control with a system like that.

Am I boring you yet, Em? It’s all so exciting and I don’t really have anyone else to tell. I didn’t mean for this to turn into such an epic!

#135: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Mon May 23, 2005 1:24 pm

This is great, I love the style of the letter. Thanks Alex

Eek 5 exams in 9 days... best of luck with them!

#136: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Mon May 23, 2005 1:28 pm

excellant. Heck that is a heavy timetable. Good luck with it.

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

Posted: Mon May 23, 2005 1:28 pm

Good for Kate, insisting on control over the dispensary -bet the doctors have been used to just helping themselves in the past. Love the way she decides on how to address people!

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

Posted: Mon May 23, 2005 1:46 pm

*grin*

Wonder why Jack was SO reluctant to not having access to the dispensary...... Wink

(sorry, guess I've been reading too much of Annonybunny's drabble.....) Wink

#139: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Mon May 23, 2005 5:01 pm

Lovely post - can picture exactly how the rooms are looking!

Can see Kate getting her way quite alot... hehe.

Thanks Alex!

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

Posted: Mon May 23, 2005 5:13 pm

Thanks Alex

Liz

#141: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon May 23, 2005 7:32 pm

Did Kate mention a bed in her letter? perhaps this drabble has good Jack, not wicked Jack.

A thought: how did he reconcile all his affairs with his Catholicism?

#142: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Mon May 23, 2005 8:57 pm

He thought he was doing them a good service Wink

#143: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon May 23, 2005 9:23 pm

Quote:

or if I’m some strange kind of hybrid breed

Ah! How well that expresses the position of a woman with some authority in a patriarchal system Wink

I think her way of addressing people is great!

thank you Alex.

#144: Author: Mollio, Location: Ireland

Posted: Mon May 23, 2005 11:08 pm

Lovely update. Thanks.

#145: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Mon May 23, 2005 11:10 pm

Thanks, Alex!

Best of luck with the cell and biochem. Such lovely subjects. Very Happy

Quote:

perhaps this drabble has good Jack, not wicked Jack.

This is St. Agnes's Jack. Of course he'll be good. Won't he?

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

Posted: Tue May 24, 2005 10:11 am

You all have such nasty suspicious minds! There is NO BED in the dispensary, ok!

Anyway, I’ve made a list of jobs that need to be done in my little pharmacy and we’ll take it from there. Tomorrow morning I need to ring the wholesaler they use and see if they supply equipment (I’m not sure how they’ve been managing even the basics with NO MEASURING CYLINDERS!) and if not can they recommend anyone who does. It would have been helpful to have known that at the start but I’ve been sorting and investigating. There’s no point in even attempting a stock take until I’ve got somewhere to put it all. At the same time I’ve still been dispensing and once I’ve sorted everything out a bit, I’m going to try and persuade the good doctor that I need an assistant for ward supplies and possible the basic dispensing and then I can do something about teaching his staff to write prescriptions properly, but I probably won’t put it quite like that.

I think that’s enough for now, I hope everything’s ok with you and the other girls in the flat. Has someone moved into my room yet? Write soon and tell me all the gossip.

Love,

Kate xx

PS I really did the make the right decision in coming here. It’s so beautiful (I’ll save raving about the scenery for another occasion) and peaceful and I really do think this job is perfect for me. K xx

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

Posted: Tue May 24, 2005 10:18 am

Really enjoying this Alex - and learning a lot too about pharmacy

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

Posted: Tue May 24, 2005 10:42 am

Lovely to catch up with this. Glad Kate's enjoying herself. Thanks Alex.

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

Posted: Tue May 24, 2005 11:56 am

Also glad to hear Kate is enjoying it - makes you wonder how on earth they've been managing if the dispensary was such a mess - had there been any accidents or near-misses that prompted Jack to get a Pharmacist?

Oh, and thanks Alex.

#150: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue May 24, 2005 12:03 pm

It certainly makes the San look hopelessly out of date! I wondered like Lesley if mistakes had been made - or are they just 'losing' a lot of drugs?

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

Posted: Tue May 24, 2005 12:52 pm

Thanks Alex - I'm glad Kate feels she did the right thing to go there.

Liz

#152: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Tue May 24, 2005 6:33 pm

The san pharmacy sounds like the one on my first placement! Laughing

Thanks Alex!

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

Posted: Wed May 25, 2005 4:53 am

Jennie wrote:

Did Kate mention a bed in her letter? perhaps this drabble has good Jack, not wicked Jack.

A thought: how did he reconcile all his affairs with his Catholicism?

Isn't that the Good Thing abouto Catholicism for the norty ones?

You go and confess, do your penance, and everything is OK!

But seriously, I am enjoying this, and I laughed out loud at Bruno!

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

Posted: Wed May 25, 2005 9:46 pm

Miss Di wrote:

Isn't that the Good Thing abouto Catholicism for the norty ones?

You go and confess, do your penance, and everything is OK!

Missed a step, Di. Go and confess, promise not to do/think it again, do your penance, and everything is OK. If you make your confession with no intention of stopping whatever your sin is, it's not a proper one and even the harshest of penances won't get you out of it!

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

Posted: Thu May 26, 2005 3:31 am

Ohhhh. Bugger.

Oh well, it's not like I was going to convert! Us footwashers you know...

(What about if I get very keen on Sunday mornings and really really think I'm not going to think about/do it again and whoops, slip up?)

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

Posted: Thu May 26, 2005 6:05 am

Didn't know you identified with Mary Magdalene, Di!!!!!!! Surely in my line of business that's my prerogative! Wink

(Oh, and if you really really think you won't do/think it again the first couple of times, it'll pass, but I rather think a priest would start to smell a rat about the third or fourth time of confessing the Same Old Same Old....)

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

Posted: Thu May 26, 2005 10:45 am

I'm afraid I'm a bit stuck at them moment, need to sit down and plan where this is going and I've got an exam this afternoon so tomorrow or Saturday is when the next bit'll be there, if you're lucky.

#158: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Thu May 26, 2005 11:54 am

No probs Alex - hope exam goes well! Smile

#159: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Thu May 26, 2005 3:01 pm

Sophoife wrote:

Didn't know you identified with Mary Magdalene, Di!!!!!!! Surely in my line of business that's my prerogative! Wink

But isn't it a secret confession? So how would the priest know that it is the third or fourth time of confessing the Same Old Same Old?

#160: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Thu May 26, 2005 4:03 pm

Best of luck on the exams, Alex!

Chelsea wrote:

But isn't it a secret confession? So how would the priest know that it is the third or fourth time of confessing the Same Old Same Old?

Nowadays, at least here, confession (aka "sacrament of reconciliation") is face to face, but even back when we were in confessional booths, regular confessors got to know their penitents. However, whether the priest knows is beside the point: you know, and are obliged to keep trying to overcome your besetting sins, says she who has been confessing things like "lost my temper" for lo these many years.

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

Posted: Fri May 27, 2005 8:28 pm

The only good thing about my parents' parish church no longer having its own priest but having one sent up from the monastery in town once a week is that they're different and don't get to know the regular penitents!

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

Posted: Sat May 28, 2005 9:57 pm

I know it's only just still Saturday but it's here as promised, and I also have something approaching a plan now.

Chapter 5 – The New Chalet

A few days later Kate was in the dispensary counting aspirin tablets, of which there were many (for some reason there were twelve bottles open each with assorted amounts in). There was no possibility of combining any of the bottles as each had a different expiry date. It also seemed that the Sanitorium staff were the sort of people likely to put an empty milk bottle back in the fridge. As Kate reached 547 there was a knock at the door, which was open.

Kate looked up to see Jack standing there. She held up her hand, “Hang on one second,” scribbled something down on the bottom of a sheet of paper, picked up the counting triangle and expertly tipped the contents back into the bottle.

“What can I do for you, Dr Maynard?” she asked with a smile.

“I have good news and bad news,” said Jack. “The bad news is that you will no longer have the pleasure of the company of the Maynard family every night over dinner. The good news is that the Staff Chalet has been…er…sorted out, and I’m assured that there is no chance of a repeat incident. You can move in as soon as you wish.”

ETA: I'm spending time in the san! How appropriate.

#163: Author: Mollio, Location: Ireland

Posted: Sun May 29, 2005 1:28 am

More, pretty please. And thank you.

#164: Author: Mollio, Location: Ireland

Posted: Sun May 29, 2005 1:32 am

Have just noticed that the clock on the CBB in 1 hour slow. Maybe Evvy has been around?........

#165: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun May 29, 2005 6:21 am

Quote:

It also seemed that the Sanitorium staff were the sort of people likely to put an empty milk bottle back in the fridge.

Love that line. It expresses the casual attitude so well! I think we all know people like that Confused

Thank you Alex.

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

Posted: Sun May 29, 2005 7:59 am

Also love how many aspirin there are - wonder why that is? Laughing

Thanks Alex.

#167: Author: Miriam, Location: Jerusalem, Israel

Posted: Sun May 29, 2005 12:02 pm

Mollio wrote:

Have just noticed that the clock on the CBB in 1 hour slow. Maybe Evvy has been around?........

I thinks it's actually because no one has updated it run on British Summer Time - it still thinks we are on regular GMT.

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

Posted: Sun May 29, 2005 2:21 pm

Miriam wrote:

Mollio wrote:

Have just noticed that the clock on the CBB in 1 hour slow. Maybe Evvy has been around?........

I thinks it's actually because no one has updated it run on British Summer Time - it still thinks we are on regular GMT.

You have to adjust it yourself - go to your profile and change the time to GMT + 1 hour. (Or whatever you are running to in your part of the world!)

#169: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Sun May 29, 2005 3:46 pm

Thanks Alex! Love the way Jack reveals that the satff accom. is fit for use again!

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

Posted: Sun May 29, 2005 5:41 pm

Thanks Alex

Hope Kate soon feels at home in the staff chalet.

Liz

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

Posted: Sun May 29, 2005 6:53 pm

Not sure how much I'm going to get written this week - 3 exams including Extreme Doom on Tuesday.

“Oh,” said Kate, a little surprised. “I didn’t think it would be ready so soon. Um…whenever is convenient I suppose. Tomorrow evening?”

“Tomorrow evening it is,” said Jack. He turned to go.

“Before you leave,” said Kate. “I’ve got a list here of things I need, and I’m quite happy to order them myself, but I thought you might prefer it if I mentioned it first.”

She retrieved the list from a small pile of papers and handed it to Jack, who scanned it and then nodded.

“Seems reasonable to me,” he said, handing it back. “Anything else?”

“I don’t suppose there’s any chance of a phone in here?” asked Kate. “I think it might get a bit difficult to run this place if I have to lock up and go down to the office every time I want to make a call, or whenever anyone phones me?”

“I’ll see what I can do,” promised Jack.

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

Posted: Sun May 29, 2005 7:41 pm

Thanks Alex - good luck with the exams.

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

Posted: Sun May 29, 2005 7:54 pm

Thanks Alex

Hope the exams go well

Liz

#174: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Sun May 29, 2005 8:38 pm

I think Kate sounds lovely!

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

Posted: Sun May 29, 2005 9:15 pm

This is really nice Alex! Very Happy

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

Posted: Sun May 29, 2005 9:29 pm

Lovely Alex, thank you!

Best of luck for "extreme doom"

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

Posted: Mon May 30, 2005 1:28 am

Thanks Alex!

Good luck with the dooms!!

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

Posted: Mon May 30, 2005 6:18 am

Thanks for the updates Alex. Grrrr to all people who put empty milk bottles back in the frig.

Oh and Sophoife - I always thought Mary M sounded like more fun than Mary the V. And she got to sing some cool songs! ;-)

#179: Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge

Posted: Tue May 31, 2005 10:56 am

Hope Extreme Doom goes / went well today, Alex.

I think Kate's going to be a shock to all those slackers at the San!

#180: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue May 31, 2005 11:11 am

Nice to see Jack being so helpful though! I wonder if he will stay like that when Kate brings in more changes? Thanks Alex - hope exam went well too Smile

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

Posted: Tue May 31, 2005 1:05 pm

Exam went better than I thought it would (although everyone else seemed to think it was horrendous so maybe I'm missing something) but still no more of this as I have another one tomorrow.

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

Posted: Tue May 31, 2005 1:07 pm

That sounds like you've done well rather than badly Alex! Hope your exam tomorrow goes just as well.

#183: Author: aitchemelle, Location: West Sussex

Posted: Sun Jun 05, 2005 7:50 pm

Hi Alex!

Hope the exams are going/ have gone well! Just caught up on this and am really looking forward to you having more time to update it!

Hannah x

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

Posted: Mon Jun 06, 2005 4:30 pm

I'm almost finished in terms of exams but I'm a bit stuck. More some time this week, I hope.

#185: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Jun 06, 2005 7:53 pm

Let's hope the rest of the exams go well for you. Looking forward to more of this.

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

Posted: Mon Jun 06, 2005 8:56 pm

Hoping the rest of the exams go well

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

Posted: Tue Jun 07, 2005 3:49 pm

Best of luck with the remaining exams!

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

Posted: Sun Jun 12, 2005 6:41 pm

A little bit, as I have no excuses left.

That afternoon, Kate made her first independent excursion to one of the wards. The notes were necessary to check the reason that the medicine had been prescribed, which in some cases affected the dose. Kate could make an educated guess at what was wrong with the patient from the other drugs they had been prescribed, but it was never a good idea to make guesses, even educated ones, where medicine was involved. Kate gathered the patient’s chart and shoved a notepad and pen into the pocket of her white coat and set off for Ward 8. Jack Maynard had always intended to give the wards more interesting names, but there had been so much heated debate as to what lines they should run along that it had never been done. Opinion was divided between mountains and wild flowers, so the numbers remained.

The sister (who Kate had been introduced to on her first day, although she had completely forgotten her name) was sat at her desk near the entrance to the ward.

“Good afternoon, Miss Miller,” said the sister, putting Kate at a complete disadvantage.

“Good afternoon, Sister,” said Kate, relieved that she could fall back on this slightly impersonal mode of address and not lose face. “I need to have a look at some notes.” She glanced at the chart in her hand, “for Anya Bachofen.”

“Miss Bachofen is in side room B,” said the sister, “her notes are there as well, in the second drawer.”

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

Posted: Sun Jun 12, 2005 6:59 pm

yay for the update!!!!

thank you, alex

#190: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jun 12, 2005 7:49 pm

Thanks Alex Very Happy

Anya Bachofen is the millionaire's daughter from Challenge isn't she?

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

Posted: Sun Jun 12, 2005 8:39 pm

Thanks Alex

Liz

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

Posted: Sun Jun 12, 2005 9:56 pm

Excellent - thanks Alex.

Hope this Sister isn't hostile.

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

Posted: Mon Jun 13, 2005 11:04 am

Mia wrote:

Anya Bachofen is the millionaire's daughter from Challenge isn't she?

Is she mentioned in Challenge? I don't have that one. In Prefects Miss Annersley tells Mary-Lou, "The Bachofen girl is up here at the San; her people are staying in one of the guest houses. He is the big millionaire shipbuilder from Denmark, and they've been afraid for some time of kidnappers... [She's in the] Last stages of TB, though her parents won't believe it, and what she knows I haven't the least idea." (pb, pp 148-9). I made up the Anya part. I'm afraid I'm going to do an EBD, now I've got this far, and ignore anything else that might previously have been said about her!

The door to side room B was ajar and Kate peered in. A girl, to Kate’s eye not more than 18 years old, very pale and thin, lay asleep in the bed. A few books lay on a table beside her bed, and a vase of flowers stood among a few cards on a chest of drawers opposite. A large window led onto a balcony, but it was too cold still for it to be open. Kate walked softly into the room, afraid to wake her, and headed for the chest of drawers. Fortunately the second drawer opened smoothly enough and Kate retrieved the notes, checked the name on the front against the chart, sat down in a chair and began to read them, starting with the most recent ones which were found at the back. As she had already been able to tell from the drug chart, the girl was gravely ill, from the notes it appeared she was in a very advanced stage of TB. Kate only had to decipher a couple of pages of scrawl, which was fortunately in English, to find the information she needed and she annotated the chart appropriately. Another paragraph caught her eye.

Patient’s parents again requested that the patient not be told of the seriousness of her condition. They themselves refuse to be persuaded of the magnitude of the situation and this is the reason they will not allow her to be told. Patient is reported to have asked nursing staff on several occasions to tell her “the truth”.

That wasn’t fair, thought Kate, the girl was clearly dying and if she wanted to know, she should be told. It was her life, after all. Her parents probably believed they were protecting her, although it did sound as if they were somewhat in denial.

Kate sighed, and closed the notes. She stood up and jumped slightly. A pair of blue eyes, very much open, regarded her calmly from the pale face of the patient in the bed.

#194: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Jun 13, 2005 11:30 am

Thanks, Alex. What a wonderful cliff you've left us on.

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

Posted: Mon Jun 13, 2005 11:47 am

Thanks Alex

*wondering if Anya has managed to get hold of her notes and read them herself in they're left in her room*

Liz

#196: Author: Liss, Location: Harrow, London

Posted: Mon Jun 13, 2005 11:51 am

This is great, Alex - looking forward to how Kate deals with Anya.

#197: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Jun 13, 2005 1:04 pm

An ethical cliff, no less Shocked