The CBB
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An Extraordinary General Meeting
http://www.the-cbb.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=2121

Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sat Jun 30, 2007 10:30 am ]
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“I can’t believe you won’t give even a sniff at what this meeting is about,” grumbled Joey to her sister Madge.

“You know I can’t Joey,” answered Madge a trifle impatiently, “It wouldn’t be fair to any of the other shareholders and I do wish you would stop going on about it. Can’t you give it a rest?”

Joey looked a little shamefaced. “I hate not knowing,” she said in an injured voice. “You’ve never kept the Chalet School business from me before. And you know how much I like being the first to know things.”

Madge smiled. If truth was known she was positively relishing being the only one in the complete picture of all the upcoming extraordinary general meeting of the Chalet School was going to entail.

“That was then and now the school is a company not a family business,” was all she said sedately. “All I can say is you will have a chance to catch up with a few old friends and have a few surprises as well.”

“Humph,” was all Joey said before giving it up as a bad job.

The sisters sat in silence for a few moments before Joey started up again.

“So who will be there?” she asked casually striving to keep the curiosity out of her voice.

Madge hid a smile. “The three Heads,” she began, “Hilda, Nell, and Dollie Edwards.” Joey’s eyebrows suddenly rose at this. “Dollie’s coming out?” she asked feeling slightly breathless. “She’s never been out here has she?”

Madge shook her head, “No,” she agreed, “and when we were discussing the location we decided that we’d have it here in Switzerland as both the school proper and St Millie’s were here and we knew you would be happy to put everyone up if we needed any extra beds,” added Madge mischievously.

“Madge, you didn’t tell me that,” yelped Joey and Madge chuckled. “All the shareholders will be there and most the Mistresses as well.” She stopped and eyed Joey. “Perhaps you should prepare some beds for all the people turning up rather than just sitting there.”

“I’m not moving until you tell me exactly what is going to happen at this meeting,” threatened Joey.

Madge simply smiled. “You wouldn’t want them to catch you out,” she said placidly refusing to rise to the bait. “I can imagine your face when they turn up on your doorstep and you have to run around getting their beds ready while I get to chat with everyone. You wouldn’t want to miss out on that,” ended Madge tantalisingly.

Joey got up grumbling, “You could help,” she said slightly put out. It wasn’t until she reached the door that she was stopped by Madge’s peals of laughter.

“Madge,” said Joey, “I believe you were having me on.”

“Oh Joey,” choked Madge, “your face. Do you really think I would do that to you and Anna?”

“Humph,” snorted Joey.

“What’s so funny?” asked a well loved voice.

“Jem, Jack,” said Madge standing up. “I just tormenting Joey about the meeting this afternoon,” and Madge went into gales of laughter while Joey glowered at her.

Jem’s eye’s twinkled as he winked at Jack and Madge, “you mean she still doesn’t know,” he said in a shocked voice.

Madge shook her head while Jem looked pityingly at his younger sister-in-law. “Well you’re in for a few shocks then,” he said gently and the three of them went into gales of laughter at Joey’s outraged face at the thought Jem might know more than she did in regards to her beloved school.

“Relax Jo, Madge hasn’t told me –much,” Jem said when he stopped laughing.

“You’re enjoying this,” Joey accused her sister.

“Of course,” answered Madge promptly, “the amount of times you’ve teased me, it’s about time I got my own back.”

Joey relaxed at this. “I know she said a little shamefacedly, I’m sorry Madge. I just wish I knew what bomb you’re planning on dropping onto us.”

“You’ll see,” was all Madge merely said an amused smile playing with her lips.



That afternoon the two sisters walked to the school and into the main Hall. Hilda and Nell met them.

“Madame,” said Hilda, “welcome. The Hall is set up as requested and almost everyone is here. Rosalie is caught on the phone but as soon as she arrives we can make a start. She’s agreed to act as secretary for this.”

Madge nodded. “She seemed to be the most apt out of all the secretaries of the school having been here the longest.”

“Madame,” said a breathless voice, “it’s lovely to see you again.”

“And you too, Rosalie,” said Madge warmly. “Well, I think we should make a start.”


Madge walked to the lectern feeling unaccountably nervous. She was fully aware of the bombshell’s she was about to drop and was a little unsure as to how everyone would react, not least her sister Joey.

“I would like to call this extraordinary general meeting to order,” she said faintly. Silence gradually fell in the auditorium and Madge looked around at everyone present. Almost all the entire staff at both Swiss branches and some of the staff from the Carnbach branch were present along with all the shareholders. Madge’s eyes finally fell onto her sister Joey.

‘She was the reason I started this school,’ she thought, ‘just so we could be together and I could raise her.’

Madge shook herself mentally and unfolded her notes, placing them on the lectern and began again in a stronger voice. “I would like to welcome you all here today and thank you for coming to this meeting. There are several items that I will be discussing which pertain to the future of this school and so I would appreciate it if we could address each item separately and in its entirety.”

“But, first of all I would like Rosalie to go through the minutes of the last meeting before I start. Thank you Rosalie.”

Rosalie smiled at Madge and sedately walked to the lectern and started to read in her clear voice.


Madge sat down on the chair beside the lectern and gazed out at each of her shareholders. All of them had had a connection with the school and she had been touched when so many of them had wanted to buy shares of the school which had done so much for them. Joey and Dick were foregone conclusions as both had been involved with the school from its conception.

‘And if anything,’ thought Madge, ‘Joey loved the school even more than she did, never quite leaving and always being involved on a day to day basis. But then Joey had always seen the school as being her extended family; and Dick.’

Dick had been her closest ally as child growing up; always looking out for his twin. If anything they had grown closer through the years of Madge caring for his four oldest children and being the emotional support for him when Mollie had been so ill. For Dick investing in shares of her company was his way of being there for her. As he once said it would mean she had more shares to vote with and he planned on leaving his shares to whomever Madge chose as her successor. Madge gazed at her brother fondly while he winked at her nearly causing her to laugh out aloud more from sheer nerves than anything else. Madge quickly coughed and looked away, not wanting to interrupt Rosalie’s reading of the minutes of the last meeting.


Madge hastily looked away from Dick and caught Emmie Linders whispering to Biddy Courvoisier. Those two had been best friends from the word go.

‘How many school assemblies had those two been caught whispering in. All it would need now is for Nell Wilson to turn and glower at them,’ thought Madge amused, ‘and it would really seem like old times. Who could ever pick which pupils the school would leave its indelible print on?’ She wondered, ‘and it certainly had with these two.’

She knew how heartbroken Biddy had been to lose her closest friend when all German and Austrian girls had to leave her school and had believed that she would never see Emmie again. It was one of the few times Madge had ever seen Biddy so down in the dumps but Emmie had insisted they would meet again and somehow Emmie’s unswerving faithfulness had paid off despite the insurmountable odds she faced. Madge knew Biddy had prayed every night for Emmie to be safe from harm in Germany and that God would bring her best friend back to the Chalet School. Both girls had insisted on buying shares; for Biddy the school had been her home for so many years. The entire Linders family had bought them en masse, but after the close entanglements between the school and this family, Madge half expected it.


The school had inspired them to stand up in Nazi Germany and not follow the crowd. Karl Linders himself had defied his superiors and enabled Bruno Von Ahlen and Friedel Von Gluck to escape the concentration camp they were in. Madge looked at the three Linders sitting together. Karl had stayed in England after the War refusing to return to his native country Germany. He met and married one of Biddy’s closest friends at school: Mary Shaw and the two lived in England. Mary had only laughed and said she was destined to never return to her home country America though the two had returned for a brief visit shortly after they married. Mary understood Karl didn’t want to live too far away from either of his sisters and seemed happy enough in England.


Joanna was still the same, much quieter than Emmie ever was; Joanna had become the Carnbach branches’ Singing and Music Mistress when the school divided between Carnbach and Switzerland. She had become a much loved Mistress inspiring her students in a way Grizel Cochrane had never been able to. Her gentle ways drew out musical talents the girls themselves never realised they had. It was a bitter grief to her pupils when she married the local Anglican Vicar in Carnbach.

‘Our loss was the churches gain,’ reflected Madge, ‘she’s done wonders for their choir.’


Her gaze finally rested on Emmie. Emmie was the only one in her family who returned to her home in Germany. Emmie became a Nurse on leaving the school and at the end of her training, joined the Red Cross. She returned to Germany with them at the end of the War wanting to help the people in her home country. Madge could only imagine the difficulties she faced in her work thought it did bring unexpected blessings especially when she met with old girls of the Chalet School and was able to help them. For Emmie it was her way of thanking the school for it had done for her and her family during the War.


Madge sighed and shifted slightly in her chair. ‘Was it just her or did the last minutes seem to drag on?’ she wondered. She knew this was the correct way of doing things but was it necessary and who really cared?


Madge noticed Grizel laughing a little at her discomfort and smiled back affectionately. Grizel was sitting with Juliet O’Hara. Madge had been more thankful than she could say at Grizel’s marriage to Neil Shepherd.

‘She was probably one of the most badly damaged girls I ever taught,’ thought Madge, ‘and she deserves to have someone cherish and adore her as Neil does.’

There had been such a hunger for love in Grizel despite the hard shell she protectively place around herself and Madge had always been aware that Grizel desperately wanted someone to love her first and best, but very few seemed to be able look past the outer shell Grizel showed. Madge was more thankful than she could say when Juliet had taken Grizel under her wing when Grizel had finished her course and convinced her to work at the Annexe. Grizel had been so happy living on the Sonnalpe; it wasn’t until she left for England and the close knit group of Juliet, Grizel and Gertrude was no more that Grizel slowly change.

‘She seemed to hold it up through the War,’ reflected Madge, ‘but afterwards when the dreary days of continually teaching and her closest friends were all marrying or being able to move on and do things they loved, she seemed to become more bitter. It was only after Len caught on fire from her cigarette that Grizel swallowed her pride and accepted the help that had always been offered.’

The Chalet School was Juliet’s and Grizel’s first real home and so Madge hadn’t been surprised when both girls applied to buy shares into the school.


Wanda was sitting between to Grizel and Frieda Von Ahlen. At first Madge was surprised when the pair had applied for shares but both girls explained that after what Karl Linders had done to enable their husbands to escape from the Concentration Camp due to in large part of the Peace League and the school’s ethos, they wanted to invest even more into the school that had returned their husbands to them. Madge’s eyes rested on Wanda; gentle, quiet Wanda was one girl she had regretted never promoting to Prefect, ‘but how many things would I do differently if I could do it all over again and she had always seemed too quiet and gentle,’ wondered Madge.


Madge shifted in her chair and caught Joey’s glare on her. Madge nearly giggled but stopped wriggling.


“And finally,” concluded Rosalie, “I would like to invite our founder and largest shareholder Madge Russell to speak. Madge stood and walked to the lectern. Thank you, Rosalie.” She said. “I would like to start by discussing the following…”

  • Retirements of certain staff members
  • Changes to the school that have been finalised and set up in place
  • And finally, my own retirement and whom I will be leaving the bulk of my shares to

Madge looked up and smiled, “The following people have approached me a said they would like to retire after so many years of service to the school. Some of you are aware of them others of them you aren’t.”

Madge paused for a moment before finally continuing, “It is with this in mind that I decided a clean break should be made and that the torch should be passed onto the younger generation. Many of whom have shown extraordinary vision and drive.” Madge almost laughed out aloud at the moment as Joey’s face so clearly said to her, ‘Well get on with it woman and stop dragging it out’


Madge relented and continued, “The following people announced their retirement at the beginning of the school year: Hilda Annersley, Head of the Swiss branch; Helena Wilson, co-Head and Head of St Mildred’s; Matron Gwyneth Lloyd, Head Matron at the Swiss branch and Miss Karen Pfeifen Head of Housekeeping and Kitchen of the Swiss Branch. All four women started at the school in Austria and have shaped the school into what it is today. I know all four women will be greatly missed; they have invested not only their time and hard work into this school. Miss Annersley took over from Mademoiselle LePattre as its Head, Miss Wilson joined her as co-Head when Miss Annersley was in hors de combat in England after her accident and later became Head of St Mildred’s and Matron Lloyd or Matey as she is affectionately known became Head Matron after Matron Webb left-Madge’s lips twitched at the thought of Matron Webb-‘at least I can laugh now years later,’ she thought fleetingly, “and Karen who succeeded Marie Pfeifen as Head of Housekeeping and Kitchen.”


Madge continued gravely, “I know people have waxed lyrical about the Abbess, Bill and Matey but I don’t think anyone has about Karen or realised the extraordinary loyalty and hard work she has given the school in running the Kitchen as smoothly as she has done.”

Madge caught Karen’s eye at the back of the room and the two looked at each other for one long moment.

Madge could remember the arguments she had had with Karen over ensuring Karen would become a shareholder when the school became a public company. Karen had been unable to afford the shares and Madge had wanted to buy her some; as she said the Pfeifens had helped the school from the very beginning and Karen had deserved to be a shareholder as much if not more than anyone else and she wanted to ensure Karen had a comfortable retirement. Karen refused believing it was charity to do it then. Madge had pleaded with her stating she could only do it now as there was no guarantee shares would be available when she retired. Karen had still refused, so Madge had bought some on her behalf and reinvested the dividends, presenting the results to Karen on her last day at the school. She gave Madge a nod of acknowledgement and smiled a rare smile. Madge smiled back before continuing, “Karen is usually the first to rise and one of the last to retire and I’m sure she will be sorely missed.” The women present rose as one clapping and cheering at her words.


“You know,” murmured Grizel to Juliet, “I don’t think anyone but Madame would have acknowledged Karen like that.”

Juliet nodded, “I know but she was always like that.”

Karen blushed, such a fiery red at such an acknowledgement and Madge noticing her discomfort raised her hand before continuing.


Madge continued, “There are some impending retirements during the next two years and the following of the Carnbach branch are: Miss Dorothy Edwards-Head of the Carnbach branch and Miss May Phipps-Head of Kindergarten; of the Swiss branch the following are retiring: Mademoiselle de Lachenais-Head of Modern Languages, Frau Anna Meiders the Domestic Science Mistress, Mr Tristan Denny-Singing Master, Miss Sarah Denny-Language Mistress; of St Mildred’s, the following are retiring: Mademoiselle Julie Berne-Modern Languages Mistress, Miss Grace Nalder-Games and Music Mistress and Matron Gertrude Rider. I know they will all be sorely missed when they leave their respective school.”

Madge paused and gazed at Miss Edwards. Miss Edwards gazed back steadily enough but Madge noted the ravages of grief still finely etched on her face. Ivy Norman, Dollie Edwards’ long time friend and Deputy Head had died unexpectedly of a heart attack nearly twelve months earlier. Miss Edwards realised a lot of her heart in the school had died along with her friend and decided it was time for her move on. Madge understood, having grieved for her own long time friend and partner Therese LePattre

“You’ll be missed Dollie,” she had said when Miss Edwards had first broached the subject with Madge, “but I can understand. I know this school has never been the same for me since Therese LePattre had died, but it was a little piece of home for all of us during the War,” at this Madge shrugged, “but I want you to know how important you have been to the success Carnbach branch is. I doubt without you and Ivy, the school would never have regrown and become as popular as it is. Thank you Dollie, thank you for all of it,” Madge had finished close to tears.

“Thanks for understanding Madge,” whispered Dollie, near tears herself. She had struggled to continue leading the school in its time of grief but had bravely continued, however two old girls of the school and current mistresses: Nell Randolph, the school’s English Mistress and Nita Eltringham the Kindergarten Mistress showed extraordinary support, compassion and leadership during this time and ensured the pupils and other Mistresses were able to move through their grief.


Out of all the pupils, Joyce Linton’s, daughter Jocelyn had been the most distraught over the loss of Miss Norman. Jocelyn was an endearing girl who had adored Miss Norman ever since her first homesick term at the school. Joyce Linton had been badly embarrassed when she realised Jocelyn’s favourite mistress was the ‘dreaded’ Miss Norman. ‘Mind you Ivy, wasn’t much better, though it did show her how much Joyce had changed,’ thought Madge amused at that particular twist, life threw at the two. Neither Ivy nor Joyce had wanted to spoil Jocelyn’s open hearted adoration of her favourite mistress and had finally put their own animosity completely behind them. Jocelyn had returned as Junior Mistress, inspired by her favourite mistress.


“It is with Miss Edward’s strong recommendation,” began Madge quietly, “I have decided to promote Miss Nell Randolph as the new Headmistress, with Miss Nita Eltringham as her Deputy. Both girls have been pupils here at the Chalet School, Nell Randolph joining the first year St Mildred’s started and Nita Eltringham joining when the school reopened in Guernsey. Both girls returned as Mistresses, Nell after she finished her degree and Nita trained at the Carnbach branch as a Kindergarten teacher soon after leaving St Mildred’s. I’m sure both girls will be successful in there new roles.”

“In order for the transition to go smoothly, both girls will work together as co-Deputy Heads until Miss Edwards retires. This position hasn’t been filled since the death of Miss Ivy Norman however both Miss Randolph and Miss Eltringham have tried to fill the position admirably and Miss Edwards felt that these two would be the most ably suited for their new positions,” finished Madge.

Both girls saw Miss Edward’s grateful smile pointed in their direction and realized it was her way of acknowledging all their hard work the previous year.

Everyone else looked in Nell and Nita’s direction and clapped while the two girls blushed at the attention. Miss Annersley looked at her cousin while Nell gave her an almost imperceptible shrug in response. It seemed the torch was being passed on through more than one family.


“The next appointment I would like to announce is for St Mildred’s,” Madge paused and took a deep breath. When she looked up she saw her daughter-in-law Kathie Russell nee Ferrars looking at her encouragingly. Madge smiled back.

Her son David’s wife Kathie was one of the nicest women Madge could have ever hoped her son would marry. She had been one of the most popular mistresses’ at the school and Ailie, the one who perhaps could have been the most affected by her brother seeing one of her mistresses had easily been the most enthusiastic and understanding. The changes at St Mildred had mostly been inspired by David and Kathie.

David had met and fallen in love with Kathie whilst caring for Kathie’s Aunt and Uncle at St Thomas Hospital in London. After seeing each other for a few years they finally married and moved out to the Platz so Kathie could still teach at the Chalet School while David worked at the San on the Orthopaedics Ward. One day David had chatted with one of the Swiss cleaners Katia and discovered the girl had longed to be a nurse however her family weren’t able to keep her at school and so she was never able to do her nurses training. David had mentioned it to a bored Kathie who was on Maternity leave after having twin girls and Kathie offered to teach her Maths and Geography along with help from Biddy Courvoisier who taught her History and Languages, whilst Daisy Rosomon was roped in to teach her the Sciences. They had discussed it with an understanding Hilda Annersley and Katia was able to sit her exams at the Chalet School.

Shortly after that Kathie, Biddy and Daisy suggested that something more permanent be set up with adult learning finding allies with staff such as Rosalie Dene, Nancy Wilmont and Ruth Derwent. Rosalie Dene suggested putting forward the proposal to the Heads and Nell Wilson leapt on the suggestion with enthusiasm; numbers had been falling at St Mildred as more and more girls didn’t require a year in a finishing school. When the proposal had been given to Madge, Madge had insisted that all Kitchen and Housekeeping staff be allowed to pursue further studies if they so desired for free. Many of the staff took the school up on its offer especially as it didn’t cost them anything but their own time.

Kathie and Biddy had both refused to be in charge of the new version of St Mildred’s as neither wanted to work full time and both felt Ruth Derwent and Nancy Wilmont as full time Senior Mistresses at the Chalet School would be better suited.

“I won’t go into detail of the many changes that have taken place at St Mildred’s, as everyone is aware of them, suffice it to say Miss Nancy Wilmont and Miss Ruth Derwent will be the co-Head’s of St Mildred which is now officially the adult learning centre,” said Madge Russell. “Many of the retired staff such as Mademoiselle de Lachenais, Matey, Miss Denny and Mr Denny will teach short courses at the school for a term at a time for as long as they wish. Miss Rosalie Dene and Miss Gillian Culver will also teach the secretarial course offered. I am sure you will also join me in wishing the St Mildred’s all the success in the world.”

Everyone clapped and cheered at this causing Ruth to blush while Nancy smiled in her most easy going manner. Both were popular choices, being long time mistresses of the school.

“Both Nancy and Ruth have completed further studies in order to be able to undertake this new venture and I’m sure they will do us proud,” finished Madge looking bright eyed.


“Finally,” continued Madge, “it is time to announce the Head of the Swiss branch of the school proper. After much discussion with all those involved we decided to find someone young enough who would be interested in leading the school for a good many years to come. Fraulein Josefa Von Wertheim has been Deputy Head here at the Swiss branch and has suggested and made many innovative changes here. So we would like to announce that she is promoted to Headship here.”

No one was too surprised at the announcement. Josefa had joined the school as a little girl and had remained at the Carnbach branch of the school. She later became its Head Girl. She studied teaching at a University in Vienna and later taught at a school in Geneva. When the school advertised for a new Maths Mistress Josefa applied and was accepted.

Hilda Annersley herself was thrilled to have someone who not only had links with the school but also had an outsider’s perspective. Josefa suggested many new changes not least that the school develop an even more international perspective and girls could take final examination from any country. When the suggestion was raised about becoming co-ed, Josefa suggested a more palatable alternative and the Chalet School had a brother school in Interlaken. She also brought back many old customs such as Guides and allowing Senior’s more freedom. The Sixth formers were allowed to go to Interlaken without Mistresses while the Fifth formers could go into the local village or into Interlaken with other Sixth formers.

Josefa was exceedingly pretty like her Mother and also had Marie’s natural charm and was a popular mistress with the girls and mistresses alike. It was also due to her natural charm that had smoothed the way for many of these changes to take place.

Madge looked up at everyone while they all clapped at the appointment. Madge saw Marie Von Wertheim beam with pride at the news of her eldest daughter’s appointment and smiled at her.


Madge raised her hand the clapping stilled almost straight away.

“It is now time to move forward and I along with the other major shareholder have decided to bequeath our shares and hand over ownership of the school to our successors,” said Madge slowly, knowing her news would be a shock to everyone there.

There was an audible gasp from the audience as it could be said no one was expecting Madge to say that. There were many looks directed at Joey Maynard as many of those present assumed she was the other major shareholder. Joey on her part was thinking furiously as to who the other major shareholder could be. She knew she owned a goodly portion but could never consider her 7% as being major. Madge noticed what was happening in the audience and smiled inwardly her eyes seeking out her silent partners.

She leaned on the lectern and went on almost dreamily, “I started this school so that my younger sister and I could remain together and so she could also be educated. Mademoiselle Therese LePattre was an old family friend and agreed to become my partner as she also wished to educate her cousins Simone and later Renee Lecoutier. Mademoiselle LePattre and I remained partners until the day she died and before we left Austria she discussed with me whom she had decided to leave her share of our school to.”

“Simone and Renee were made sole beneficiaries of her share in the school. Before we left Austria we sold the building of the school to Mr Flower and as a result although we lost some money we didn’t lose everything. Therese and I discussed what we wanted to do with the money and Therese made it very clear that she hoped the school would reopen again. It was her dearest wish that she would be a part of that. Without her I doubt this school would have even begun, as I would never have been able to begin it in the first place, on my own. And, so honouring her wishes we both reopened the school together in Guernsey.”

“Upon Therese’s death her two young cousins inherited her share in the school and, honouring their wishes, this was never made public knowledge. Latterly the school became a limited public company and seventy percent of the shares were divided between me and Madame Simone de Bersac and Mademoiselle Renee Lecoutier, with thirty-five percent given to me and the other thirty-five percent shared equally between Simone and Renee. The remaining thirty percent was sold to any of those whom wished to invest in the school.”

Simone and her sister Renee smiled at each other while the audience were buzzing around them and many threw looks into their direction.

Joey looked stunned. She could not believe her sister or her closest friend had kept such a huge secret from her.

Madge took a sip of water, her throat feeling parched from talking so long. “Many of you will wonder,” continued Madge quietly, “why this information was kept from you? Both Simone and Renee felt that the Chalet School was their cousin’s school and although both were touched that she left her interest in the school to them, both felt they owed it to her memory that it remain very much mine and Mademoiselle’s school. As Simone said to me when I retire then our successor to the school can be announced and it can be a joint venture between two friends once more, but in the meantime she never wanted Mademoiselle LePattre to be forgotten.”

“It is the joint wish of Madame de Bersac and Mademoiselle Lecoutier for Theresa de Bersac to be the sole beneficiary of their joint shares of thirty-five percent. The school has always been owned by women and they wished it would continue to do so. Both Simone and Renee feel that as Tessa is the sole daughter of Simone and-as Renee never had children-that Tessa should inherit their financial share of the school. Mademoiselle Tessa de Bersac has been employed as chef at a well known restaurant in Paris. She has agreed to leave and will be in charge of the Kitchen and Housekeeping Department at the Swiss branch, replacing Karen. It is the role she feels most suited to.”


Madge took another sip of water, feeling nervous with what she was about to say. Now she said, “I have discussed this in great detail with my three daughters Sybil, Josette and Aline and both Josette and Sybil felt the school should be left to one person and both felt the ownership of the school should go to Ailie as she is its PT Mistress. So Miss Aline Russell will be the sole beneficiary of my shares in the school. It is with that in mind that both Miss Aline Russell and Mademoiselle Theresa de Bersac will be the new co-Deputy Heads here at the Swiss branch of the Chalet School. Neither of them wishes to lead the school at this time as neither feel they have the experience for the job. Both wish to make it clear that they will support Fraulein Von Wertheim as its Head and are only wishing to take on the role as Deputy Head in order to gain insight and better understand the running of the school.”

“Both Miss Russell and Mademoiselle de Bersac will spend time at all three branches to experience and learn the way each branch operates with Miss Russell moving to Carnbach to teach PT and Mademoiselle de Bersac to St Mildred’s to teach Cookery and enable others to become chefs. When they do this another will be appointed as Deputy Head at the Swiss branch. Now I think the final thing I will do is invite the new co-owners of the Chalet School to speak to you their share holders.”

Everyone sat stunned at Madge’s news though they did clap at the end of her announcement. Tessa and Ailie walked to the lectern together. Ailie managed a weak grin to Tessa.


“I knew they would be shocked,” she murmured, “but I didn’t expect this.”

Tessa raised an eyebrow. “Let just say your Mother has managed to surprise everyone especially Aunt Joey.”

Ailie gave a quiet chortle. “She looks like a stranded codfish to use her favourite expression,” she said good-humouredly. “We think Aunt Joey looks a bit faint Mums,” murmured Ailie.

Aunt Madge nodded, “I think so to. I don’t think I’ve ever seen her so flabbergasted,” said Madge with a suspicious quiver to her voice. Now that the announcement was complete Madge felt like laughing. All the pent up tension and stress of the past few weeks was bubbling close to the surface.

Ailie gave her mother a sympathetic smile. “We’ll keep it short,” she said, “my guess is everyone is dying to be free to discuss the entire bombshell’s you’ve dropped on them and I can see Auntie Jo dying to talk to you.”

“I know,” said Madge almost with a sigh. “I can just hear it now, so don’t hurry through your speech on my account. I rather put off the fateful day.”

“Don’t be a spineless jellyfish Mums,” teased Ailie, while her Mother grimaced at her daughter. Ailie squeezed her mother’s arm and nodded for Tessa to go first, “Age before beauty,” she quipped.

“Dirt before the brush,” retorted Tessa used to Ailie’s teasing ways.

“Together then?” asked Ailie, refusing to be diverted. Tessa nodded.

Madge stood to the side gazing at the two girls. They had been friends almost from the word go, not what she called close friends. Ailie had chummed up with Janice and Judy while Tessa seemed closer with Thyra and yet they both were part of a larger group of friends. Tessa was always so serious and Ailie so light hearted that Madge knew they were good for each other and seemed to balance each other out. ‘I’m glad these two are taking over,’ thought Madge.


“And finally we would like to thank everyone for their patience. I’m sure everyone is dying to talk about all that Madame,” Ailie gave her mother a mischievous look, “has announced so without any more ado I would like to declare this extraordinary meeting over.”

Everyone clapped and cheered partly to release the pent up feelings that were running riot. Joey made a beeline for her sister

“Well Joey?” asked Madge when her sister reached her “was it worth the wait.”

“It wasn’t what I was expecting,” admitted Joey, “but then I was never really sure who you would leave the school to and Ailie was the only one whom became a teacher. Sybil went into Needlework and Josette became a Radiologist and anyway they both live in Australia.”

Madge nodded. “I did discuss it with them when Josette had her wedding in England and both Josette and Sybil thought the more sensible thing was to leave it to Ailie. If she hadn’t wanted the responsibility then I would have considered one of the nieces but I must admit,” Said Madge with a smile, “I was relieved Ailie leapt at the idea of owning the Chalet School. I did like the idea of passing it onto one of my daughters.

I’m glad Simone and Renee did what they did said Joey quietly, “It was a lovely gesture, though I don’t know why you didn’t tell me about it,” added Joey in an injured voiced.

“Because I didn’t want anyone to be hurt, cherie said Simone joining the group with her sister and daughter and Ailie. “If I told you then someone else would be hurt that I didn’t tell them.

“Madame did explain it, weren’t you listening,” said Tessa sweetly. “You must be losing your hearing in your old age.”

Joey’s face was a study. Ailie, Madge and Renee tried to stifle their laughter at Joey’s face, while Simone gave her daughter a look.

“Well I for one think it was swell of them to keep it as Madame and Mademoiselle’s school,” said a fresh voice joining the group.

“Corney!” exclaimed Renee.

“Hi Renee, how’s the piano playing going?” Asked Corney, submitting, to a double French kiss, from her old friend.

“Good,” exclaimed Renee. “I play piano at the French Opera House and love it.” Corney gave her old friend a keen look. Renee Lecoutier had fallen in love with a fellow music student at the Conservatory of Music in Paris. Pierre had been a budding conductor when War broke out and died while fighting in the French resistance. Renee had never fallen in love again after Pierre died and she had been touched beyond words that her sister Simone had named her eldest son after her dead fiancé. Renee was devoted to her niece and two nephews.

“I’m glad,” was all Corney said.

Evvy joined the group and while everyone was busy catching up on all the news, Joey turned to one of her oldest friends.

“You and Tessa are right,” she said quietly. “I’m sorry Simone.”

“That’s alright, cherie,” said Simone with a smile. “I know how much the school meant to you and that a part of you would be hurt that Renee and I were co-owners with Madame.”

Joey nodded shamefacedly, “I always felt the school was mine, more so than Madge’s even though she owned it. I was a part of its everyday life.”

“Maybe it’s time to let go, Joey,” said Simone gently. “So many of the old staff are moving on, maybe it’s time to as well. Let Tessa and Ailie make this school their own.”

“I should,” said Joey almost inaudibly, “but oh Simone you don’t know how hard it will be to do that. My whole life has been tied up with the school.”

“Your life has been tangled with the people, your friends. You will always have them; you always have,” said Simone gently, “and as a wise friend once told me the more you share your friends the more you get to keep them,” finished Simone with a wicked twinkle, repeating Joey’s words to her when the were both at school together.

Joey chuckled, “thanks Simone, I’ll think about what you said, truly I will.”

Simone wisely said no more and allowed Marie to pull her away.


“Congratulations Simone,” said Marie bubbling. “I think it was lovely allowing Mademoiselle to be remembered as the owner of the school. She would have been so proud.”

“I agree,” said quiet Frieda with a gentle smile. “And congratulations to you both, Tessa and Josefa have done you proud.”

“She is so excited,” bubbled Marie, “nervous but excited. I don’t think she was fully expecting to be promoted above so many others but as Miss Annersley has said she is suited for the job.”

Simone smiled, “Tessa is.”

“She’s happy taking over Karen’s role?” asked Marie quietly.

Simone nodded. Madame, Ailie, Renee, Tessa and I all discussed this. Tessa loves cooking. It’s all she’s wanted to do. As much as she’s agreed to do this and take it on, I think she would be miserable if she couldn’t cook and she has no desire to teach Domestic Science, which is the only subject she could teach. I know she will teach cookery at St Mildred’s but it will be different teaching those wanting to specialize in Cookery and those only doing it as a subject at school,” finished Simone quietly.

Frieda smiled, “I’m glad she’s found what she loves doing,” she said softly.


“Congratulations, on your promotion Nell and Nita,” said Nell Wilson eyes twinkling, whilst talking to two of her old students. “Just when the school thought it was safe from the Hilda Annersley glare her cousin’s takes over her mantle.”

“Nell Wilson, will you stop talking rubbish,” said Hilda trenchantly and she glared at her old friend and ex-co-Head.

Nita bit her bottom lip in an effort not to laugh because Nell Wilson was right Nell Randolph had a very Hilda Annersley type glare and her gentle irony.

“Congratulations my dear,” said Hilda to her cousin’s daughter. “I am more proud than I could say of you being promoted; of both of you taking on Headship at Carnbach.”

“Thanks you, Miss Annersley,” said Nell and Nita both going red.

“By the way don’t you girls think it’s about time you called us Nell and Hilda?” suggested Nell and nearly gurgled at the abject look of horror on both their faces. “Surely it can’t be that bad girls?” said Hilda gently, but with the inflection both Nell and Nita knew well.

“No worse, than when I, suggested you both drop the Madame, and call me Madge,” said Madge with a chuckle as she walked up to the group.

Nell and Nita looked positively delighted when both Nell and Hilda blushed at that reminder.

“Madge that’s not fair!” complained Nell. “You have no idea how intimidating you could be.”

At those words Nell and Nita convulsed with laughter, neither having found Madge intimidating.

Hilda’s own eyes twinkled, she had almost forgotten those days when she was so new and nervous.


“Well, Madge,” Joey said later when the two were alone, “are you happy with the decisions you made?”

Madge smiled and nodded. I’m glad Ailie and Tessa are carrying on with the school she said quietly. Simone’s right it’s time for two friends to own the school together once more and I am happier than I can say that it is staying in the family the way it’s done: my daughter and Therese’s cousin. What about yourself.”

Madge looked at her sister closely.

Joey was silent for a moment, “Well I must admit I hoped one of my daughters had wanted to teach at the school and maybe become its Head, but none of them have,” admitted Joey, surprising herself and Madge with her honestly, “and if I was completely honest part of me wishes the school was bequeathed to me. I love it so. But it was your school and in my heart of hearts I knew your daughters would inherit it.”

Joey turned to Madge, “Ailie has a real gift with teaching and has inherited your mantle there, more so than Sybil or Josette. Tessa has Mademoiselle and Simone’s gentle kindness and faithful loyalty. I couldn’t imagine two better people to lead it in the future.

“I must say I am relieved, Joey,” said Madge gently, “I always thought you would take it hard.”

Joey shook her head, “I’m trying to be sensible about it,” said Joey slowly, “and you don’t know how hard that is. Joey grinned, “But being the fabulously, wonderful person that I am…” Joey said leaving Madge breathless for a moment. “I’m happy for Ailie and Tessa,” said Joey still smiling, “and Madge I think starting the school is one of the best things you’ve ever done. I hope it brings them as much happiness and fun and everything thing that it did us.”

“Well, I hope it doesn’t give Ailie as many gray hairs’ as it did me, but then you’re not a pupil at the school any more so I think she’s safe,” quipped Madge.

“Madge!” wailed Joey, “I’m trying to be nice here.”

Madge just chuckled and the two started to walk away.


THE END


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