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Love and Obedience (complete -- no update!)
http://www.the-cbb.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=2519
Author:  Lisa_T [ 19 Apr 2007, 00:37 ]
Post subject:  Love and Obedience (complete -- no update!)
I've always felt rather sorry for Margot. She's a strong character who in some ways is vilified- admittedly not without justification. This is essentially a series of vignettes tracing Margot through girlhood as she gains in self knowledge, ultimately deciding to train as a medic with the intention of taking vows. This story is set very firmly in an EBD future-verse, so no CGGU scandals here, I'm afraid...

I started this some time ago, and for some reason this particular bunny has bitten hard again.

I hope you enjoy.

*

The new Reverend Mother reached out a hand towards the carved wooden frame of her prie-dieu before levering herself to her feet. Then she looked about her with an almost bemused expression in her forget-me-not blue eyes.

“Who would have thought it?” she murmured with a secret smile as she moved towards the desk that stood in the centre of the room.

Her eye fell on the window and the scene outside, and the amused light in her face and eyes dimmed. She was a doctor; had been a doctor now for more than twenty years and she loved her work passionately. And now she, the most active of women, would spend at least a decade in the purely administrative position of Reverend Mother at this House in the depths of what had once been the Belgian Congo.

All this for the sake of a vow of obedience. The irony was that obedience was Mary Margaret’s sticking point, as for so many medics in religious orders. The tension between obedience to superior and obedience to one’s own professional calling had led many nuns to choose the latter over the former, but she, Mary Margaret Maynard, would not be one of them.

And now it was time to go to Chapel, and to lead her sisters- now her daughters- in the singing of the Office before they returned to their various positions in the schools and hospitals of this impoverished area. Once she had joined them; now, this morning, for the first time, she would remain behind in her study. Eventually, she knew, she would be able to take up her medical work again- but not to the same extent. Now, more than ever, she must be nun first and doctor second.

For a second Mary Margaret felt a flash of old rebellion. Why should this be exacted of her? And yet, as she cast an experienced eye over her fellow nuns in Chapel, she had the sense to acknowledge that she was the only real choice for Reverend Mother General. The only other possibility was the tall grey eyed girl who gave her a glimmer of a smile as she passed her. Yet Sister Helena Entwistle- Mary Margaret’s own eldest niece- was, at twenty-seven, too young and inexperienced for the post. More than that, it was only three years since she had taken final vows, and the Blue Nuns, like other Orders, insisted that a Superior must, if at all possible, have been vowed for at least a full decade.

As Mary Margaret raised her voice- still beautiful, still the admired soprano of her school-days- to lead her sisters in choir and prayer, she found herself going back to the beginning.
Author:  Cath V-P [ 19 Apr 2007, 00:51 ]
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Thank you Lisa, this looks fascinating.
Author:  Kathy_S [ 19 Apr 2007, 02:41 ]
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Thank you, Lisa. :D

(Go, bunny!)
Author:  Alison H [ 19 Apr 2007, 07:47 ]
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Thanks Lisa :D .
Author:  Squirrel [ 19 Apr 2007, 08:37 ]
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This looks very interesting. Thanks Lisa.
Author:  Ruth B [ 19 Apr 2007, 08:56 ]
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Thank you Lisa, can't wait to see more of this!
Author:  MaryR [ 19 Apr 2007, 12:42 ]
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But she wouldn't be human if she didn't kick against obedience, if she had no regrets at being given the *top job*. And in the end being Reverend Mother would prove to bring its own rewards.

Thanks, Lisa
Author:  Lisa_T [ 19 Apr 2007, 12:56 ]
Post subject: 
Glad you like so far!
*
Margot Maynard sat in a small and miserable huddle and refused to meet her mother’s eyes.

“You do see, don’t you, Margot?” Joey Maynard asked, her golden voice tinged with desperation. “Both Papa and Uncle Jem think you haven’t recovered as well as you should have, and Uncle Jem and Auntie Madge have offered to take you to Canada with them. They’re taking Josette, and we all hope that Canada will do a good deal for her. There’s a chance it could help you, too.”

“But I don’t want to go away from you an’ Papa an’ Len an’ Con,” Margot said in a quiet little voice. “Can’t you and Papa go instead of Uncle Jem?”

Joey shook her black head. “Not at this time, sugar-pie. For one thing, we haven’t been invited. The people at this big TB conference have specifically asked for your Uncle Jem, and it would be rather rude, wouldn’t it, if we sent Papa instead.”

“Couldn’t Len and Con come too, if I have to go?” Margot pleaded.

Joey bit her lip. This was harder than she had ever imagined, and as she looked at the little misery in front of her, and thought of the child going so far away, she almost relented.

But then she remembered Jack’s gentle warning: that Margot had been ill, that she had not recovered as much as she ought, that the cold and damp of the English climate was doing nothing to build her up and that, in effect, if she stayed at this point, there was a real danger of her developing serious chest trouble later on.

Joey had spent her adolescent years surrounded by tuberculosis; her husband and brother in law were TB specialists, and her own beloved adopted sister had been threatened with the disease when Joey had been sixteen. Therefore, she’d taken fright at Jack’s words, and the memory of them stiffened her resolve now.

“Not right away,” she said gently. “We couldn’t afford it, you see, and there’s no real need. You’ll have Josette and Ailie,” she went on cheerily, “Won’t that be fun? And since it’s a part of Canada that speaks French think what fun you’ll have when you get back. All the others will be struggling on French days and you’ll have no trouble at all!”

“I hate French,” Margot muttered in a rebellious undertone, and her mother sighed.

Margot didn’t really hate French, Joey thought, she was simply being difficult.

Her exasperation communicated itself to the little girl, and the rebellion died from Margot’s eyes. Difficult and sickly, that was her. If she wasn’t worrying her parents about her health, they were upset because of her temper and her ‘devil’.

That’s what lay behind all this, the eight-year-old decided. Mamma and Papa wanted rid of her. P’raps they thought Auntie Madge could control her better. Auntie Madge, Margot knew, was famed as having been something of a tartar in the days when she had been Head of the Chalet School. As bad as Auntie Hilda or Auntie Nell, Mamma had said once. Margot found that difficult to believe, but it did ‘splain things a little.

It all came down to the same thing in the end. Mamma and Papa didn’t want her ‘cos she was too much trouble. Len and Con never gave anyone any trouble. Well, in that case, fine! She’d go, and she’d have the time of her life, so there! Whereat Margot stopped trying to look rebellious and dissolved in a passion of hysterical tears that so alarmed her mother that the young lady found herself marched off to bed by her father, and dosed with his pet nostrum of hot milk.
Author:  leahbelle [ 19 Apr 2007, 13:08 ]
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Thanks, Lisa. I'm glad this bunny is biting!
Author:  Róisín [ 19 Apr 2007, 13:17 ]
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Oh goodie! Thank you for this!

I wonder what the next episode will consist of. I wonder did she think of the Bettanys being made to leave India as she was herself being made to leave England /muses.
Author:  Ruth B [ 19 Apr 2007, 13:21 ]
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Oh I just want to pick her up and hug her tight! Poor little thing!
Author:  Fatima [ 19 Apr 2007, 15:05 ]
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Thanks Lisa. I always think how hard it must have been for Jo to send Margot off to Canada when she was so young and had been so ill, but I really feel sorry for Margot here.
Author:  PaulineS [ 19 Apr 2007, 16:31 ]
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It makes Margot's rebellions later more understandable. :(
The English did such harm to their children by separating them from their parents. Bowlby and co really only touched the surface of children being separated from their parents.
Jo of course never knew her parents. I wonder how that effected her. :?:
Well done, an interesting view of both Margot and Joey
Author:  Gerrie [ 19 Apr 2007, 18:16 ]
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Hi Lisa
This is great, thanks - looking forward to more!
Author:  Lesley [ 19 Apr 2007, 20:46 ]
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Poor little girl - that's exactly what she would think.


Thanks Lisa.
Author:  LizB [ 19 Apr 2007, 21:28 ]
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Awwwwww - poor kid :(

Thanks, Lisa
Author:  Cath V-P [ 20 Apr 2007, 01:38 ]
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Poor Margot, and poor Jo, trying to do what is best for her daughter.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 20 Apr 2007, 02:36 ]
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Cath V-P wrote:
Poor Margot, and poor Jo, trying to do what is best for her daughter.


It would be heart breaking and in some ways infinately harder than what the four older Bettany children grew up with. They didn't know any different, Margot does and that makes all the difference
Author:  Miranda [ 20 Apr 2007, 05:07 ]
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Poor Margot - she didn't really seem to have a chance to voice her fears before alarming Joey too much and being taken off to bed. Part of that seems to stem from a possible lack of self-control, but even so.

It would explain a lot of things if Margot does leave for Canada still in that frame of mind.
Author:  MaryR [ 20 Apr 2007, 15:22 ]
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How seldom we DO know what children are really thinking, and how very seldom it is what we hope they are thinking.

Thanks, Lisa
Author:  Loryat [ 20 Apr 2007, 16:39 ]
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Like this so far. More please :D .
Author:  Lisa_T [ 20 Apr 2007, 22:05 ]
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H'mm, not so sure about this bit:

Nearly three months later Margot found herself standing in the front hall of La Sagesse in Toronto. Josette Russell stood beside her, her periwinkle eyes scanning the room quickly.

“It’s different, isn’t it,” she observed at last.

Margot, her own eyes wide, nodded silently. Physically, the building was not so very different from Plas Howell, where the Chalet School was currently situated. Plaster and panelling changes little after all. However, the atmosphere and smells were different, and Margot, not realising that they were standing in the corridor that lead to the nuns’ private chapel, felt like she was becoming drunk on the heady scent of incense. For the first time since her mother had broken the news, Margot felt a sense of peace descend on her.

“Mary Maynard and Josephine Russell?” a soft voice asked in gentle French, and both girls started violently at the unexpected sound. In fact, it took them a moment to realise that they were in fact being addressed; Margot had never been called ‘Mary’- except when her mother was angry, and then it tended to be ‘Mary Margaret Maynard!’ which she hated- and Josette was only Josephine when she was in really serious trouble. They turned to face a slender nun of whom Margot’s first confused thought was, ‘Why, she looks like Auntie Hilda!’.

There was certainly some truth in this. Like the current Head of the Chalet School, Mere Marie-Cecile was tall and slender, with well set blue-grey eyes. Also like Hilda Annersley, she had a lovely speaking voice and a smile that transformed her face. There, however, the resemblance ended. Miss Annersley had a ready sense of humour and she projected genuine warmth. Mere Marie- Cecile, on the other hand, was solemn and often cool in her dealings with her pupils.

Josette, meanwhile, and pulled herself together and introduced herself and her cousin to her new Headmistress with a composure worthy of the daughter of the Chalet School’s foundress. Then she took her courage in both hands and pointed out, in French that was as good as she could make it, that, “I’m really Josette and Margot isn’t Mary at all.”

The nun raised a startled eyebrow at this. “You mean there has been a mistake?”

Josette shook her black curls vigorously. “Oh no. It’s only that she’s a triplet,” she explained, rather vaguely.

Mere Marie-Cecile frowned a little. “Please explain more clearly,” she ordered with some severity, and Josette gave her a startled glance.

“Well, you see,” she began confidingly, “Margot’s a triplet. And they’ve all got Mary for a first name. Len is Mary Helena, really, Con is Mary Constance, and Margot is Mary Margaret.”

The frown cleared from the nun’s brow at this explanation, but before she could say more, Margot’s blue eyes overflowed, and Josette exclaimed.

“Margot! What’s wrong?”

“I miss them all so much!” Margot wept. “I want to go home!” and, heedless of her surroundings, she placed her hands over her eyes and sank into an unhappy little heap on the floor, with Mere Marie-Cecile and Josette watching in astonishment.
Author:  Lesley [ 20 Apr 2007, 23:40 ]
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Poor girl. Hope the new Head,istress doesn't continue being all cold.

Thanks Lisa.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 21 Apr 2007, 02:45 ]
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Poor Margot, echoes Lesley's hopes the Headmistress will be a little warmer
Author:  Fatima [ 21 Apr 2007, 05:29 ]
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Or if she wants to continue to be cool, I hope Margot's teacher is sweet and understanding.

Thanks Lisa.
Author:  MaryR [ 21 Apr 2007, 16:59 ]
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Loved the unfavourable comparison to Hilda! :lol: And oh yes, I too know that sensation of being drunk on incense, or at least knocked out by it!
:shock:

Interesting that Margot feels that sense of peace even when homesick and upset.

Thanks, Lisa
Author:  Lisa_T [ 21 Apr 2007, 22:40 ]
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I'm glad you are enjoying. I drafted out the plot for this last night, and there's plenty more to come on my computer at home... so you will get more tomorrow!
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ 22 Apr 2007, 02:57 ]
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Quote:
and there's plenty more to come on my computer at home... so you will get more tomorrow!

Good - I am really enjoying this. It really does make us think about how 'abandoned' Margot would have felt at being sent away as she was, no matter how much she loved Madge and her cousins and no matter how much the time in Canada was expected to improve her health - she was too young to comprehend that side of things.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 22 Apr 2007, 10:42 ]
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Lisa_T wrote:
I'm glad you are enjoying. I drafted out the plot for this last night, and there's plenty more to come on my computer at home... so you will get more tomorrow!


Lisa! How can you tantalise us like this. Can I tempt you with Tim Tams?
Author:  Lisa_T [ 22 Apr 2007, 22:48 ]
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Unfortunately- or fortunately, depending on how you look at it- I remain impervious to tim tams, having somehow missed them completely during our Australian soujourn. But here's more anyway....Besides, I'm rather good at being tantalising, abeit not to Lesley's standards. I don't think I've ever threatened to kill anyone, f'r'instance...

Despite this unfortunate beginning, Margot settled down to school life in La Sagesse with surprising rapidity, at least on the surface. Josette, as her mother’s daughter and thus possibly prouder of her Chalet School background took longer, but after a while she too settled, and Madge reported to her sister with some satisfaction that both girls were gaining greatly in health and strength as well as doing well academically.

For Margot, La Sagesse was a breath of fresh air. Here, she was accepted for herself, rather than because of her relations. She could simply be Margot Maynard, rather than ‘difficult Margot’ or ‘frail Margot’, or, what was just as bad, Joey’s daughter, Madame’s niece, one of the triplets….

For all that Margot missed her family very much, and had repeated fits of weeping for them, she was very much enjoying the opportunity to discover herself as an individual.

In addition, she was fascinated by the glimpses of convent life that she caught from time to time; once, she and Josette had to stay for a few nights because Auntie Madge was ill, and Margot had wakened in the night, and seen the chapel lights glowing from her window. She sat and watched for a long time, or so it seemed, and in fact was only prevented from falling asleep at her post by a sudden mutter in incoherent French from the other side of the room. Startled, and a tiny bit giggly, she quickly climbed back into bed, but the experience was one she never forgot, even though it was many many years before her family ever knew of it.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 22 Apr 2007, 23:16 ]
Post subject: 
Thanks for the update, it was lovely

Quote:
Unfortunately- or fortunately, depending on how you look at it- I remain impervious to tim tams, having somehow missed them completely during our Australian soujourn. But here's more anyway....Besides, I'm rather good at being tantalising, abeit not to Lesley's standards. I don't think I've ever threatened to kill anyone, f'r'instance...

How can you not be tantalised by Tim Tams, Lisa? You don't know what you missed.
And everyone is giving Lesley a lovely reputation, threatening to kill and I remember reading elsewhere that she nearly took over the board at one point, her RCS replacing everyone else's drabble. What gives? :? :shock: :lol:
Author:  Cath V-P [ 23 Apr 2007, 00:51 ]
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That's a lovely series of responses from Margot - appreciation of the space that La Sagesse give her to be herself, homesickness for her family and an underlying fascination with the convent itself.
Thank you Lisa.
Author:  Karoline [ 23 Apr 2007, 11:27 ]
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:heart: Tim Tams (wheres a drooling smilie when you really need one :lol:)

I'm really enjoying this Lisa
Author:  Loryat [ 23 Apr 2007, 12:03 ]
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I like the way you're showing Margot's interest in convent life, very nice.
Author:  Helen P [ 23 Apr 2007, 12:42 ]
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Ooooh, I like this, and have a very soft spot for Margot myself, so I'm really looking forward to reading lots about her. :D

I tried Tim Tams and didn't like them :shock: :shock: :shock:
Author:  leahbelle [ 23 Apr 2007, 13:20 ]
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This is a very refreshing view of Margot which I'm thoroughly enjoying. Thanks, Lisa!
Author:  Róisín [ 23 Apr 2007, 19:12 ]
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Thank you for the updates Lisa. I'm looking forward to more episodes :D
Author:  Lesley [ 23 Apr 2007, 19:16 ]
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Fiona Mc wrote:
And everyone is giving Lesley a lovely reputation, threatening to kill and I remember reading elsewhere that she nearly took over the board at one point, her RCS replacing everyone else's drabble. What gives? :? :shock: :lol:


Fiona I'm as shocked as you - I've no idea where I got such a terrible reputation.




































:twisted:


Thanks Lisa.
Author:  Lisa_T [ 23 Apr 2007, 21:13 ]
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Quote:
And everyone is giving Lesley a lovely reputation, threatening to kill and I remember reading elsewhere that she nearly took over the board at one point, her RCS replacing everyone else's drabble. What gives? Confused Shocked Laughing


..Uh, so reducing the board to total and utter devastated silence for 24 hours, and then (according to Liss :wink: ) putting the whole thing into melt-down shortly after doesn't speak for itself, huh? And let's not forget everything Lesley's done to Hilda and Nell since. They've been shot, kidnapped, smashed up, traumatised, bullied, and-n and I forget the rest. Suppressed it, obviously.....:shock: :wink:

Oh yeah, Lesley's a paragon of innocence who would never dream of leaving her unfortunate readers teetering at cliff edge after cliff edge. There's a reason that trampolines and Bailey's have a following on this board, y'know! :D :D

Annnnyway... on with the um, story.

**
The next day, and over the succeeding months, she watched the nuns with an avidity that escaped most of them. Mere Marie-Cecile, did, however, notice, and commented on it once- and only once.

“Wait a moment, please, Margot,” she instructed as the girl filed past her after their scripture lesson.

Obediently, Margot stopped and waited- the very picture of a good little girl, the nun thought. Amusement tinged the thought; it had not been long before La Sagesse had learnt that Miss Maynard was nowhere near as angelic as her red-gold curls and lovely little face suggested.

“Here is your prep,” Mere Marie-Cecile told her, handing the book back. “It was very good. Well done, my child.” The nun stopped and favoured her pupil with one of her rare smiles, and Margot’s cheeks flushed a little.

“I-I-it just- well, it kind of wrote itself,” she confided in her own language, surprising even herself. “I just thought an’ thought about it, what it would mean to give your life to God.” She raised her blue eyes to the older woman’s face, and that lady smiled again.

“Which is exactly what I wanted you to do,” she said briskly, also speaking in English. “However, you seem to have thought about it with more care than we have come to expect of you, my child!”

Margot looked startled and smiled faintly as she recognised that the austere nun was making a little joke.

“Papa says I’m the cleverest in my family when I chose to be,” she said with simple indifference.

It was not vanity, Marie-Cecile noted; just stating a fact.

“If that it true, my child, then you are blessed. And you know, do you not, that you must use your brains for the glory of God?”

Margot blinked. “But how can I?” she asked, puzzled. “Does God just want my normal work? I mean,” she continued nervously, “I’m only eight. It’s years an’ years before I could really give myself to Him. And,” she went on with downcast eyes, “I’m not even very good most of the time.”

Mere Marie-Cecile sat back in her chair and looked at the child before her for a long moment.

“Trying to do the best you can, and being the best you can be- at everything- is the surest way of glorifying God, especially at your age. As you grow up, I believe you will be guided towards the right path for you. That could,” she said evenly, “mean marriage; or professional work of some sort.”

“I don’t think I want to be a teacher,” Margot said decidedly.

Mere Marie-Cecile astonished both herself and her pupil by laughing out loud at that.

“It is not such a bad thing to be,” she said, “although it is not easy! But there are other professions opening to women. You could be a nurse- even a doctor! Your uncle is a doctor, is he not?”

“Yes, ma Mere. Papa too.”

“There you see. Also, there is law. Or you may marry, as I said; that too is a way of serving God. Or-“

“I could be a nun,” Margot finished baldly.

Mere Marie-Cecile looked at her again and smiled to herself. On the face of it, this gay, vivacious child with her delicacy and her temper, was a most unsuitable nun. But she was young; she had great intelligence and potential… Perhaps in the future, she would indeed take vows. Only time would tell.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 23 Apr 2007, 21:56 ]
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That was lovely Lisa. Am really enjoying reading about Margot's time in Canada :D
Author:  Cath V-P [ 24 Apr 2007, 00:51 ]
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I enjoyed that. And Mere Marie-Cecile put that in exactly the right way for a child.

Thank you Lisa.
Author:  Kathy_S [ 24 Apr 2007, 04:07 ]
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This is fascinating. I hadn't thought of Margot being influenced by the time at La Sagesse, but it makes a lot of sense.

I had to laugh about the odor of incense, which as a child I associated more with church and fainting. The convent, on the other hand, smelled of cookies the one time I visited as a small child. And they shared. That's when I first realized that nuns were actually people. (This was in the aftermath of a detention for throwing a pencil at someone: very Margot.)
Author:  Lesley [ 24 Apr 2007, 07:09 ]
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That was lovely - just the type of person margot needed - and how telling that she is revelling in just being herself.


Thanks Lisa.
Author:  Ruth B [ 24 Apr 2007, 11:07 ]
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Kathy_S wrote:
(This was in the aftermath of a detention for throwing a pencil at someone: very Margot.)


ROFL!

Thanks Lisa, this is a luffly drabble.
Author:  Mrs Redboots [ 24 Apr 2007, 17:25 ]
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I did like that, thank you so much!
Author:  Lisa_T [ 25 Apr 2007, 01:35 ]
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Wee bit more...

Reverend Mother turned to lead her community from Vespers, and the sisters filed after her, their eyes downcast. It was a rather straggly file as several sisters were currently elsewhere, on medical rotas and duty.

An observer watching them walk past, dressed as they still were in their traditional full habits- although of white cotton, in this case- would find it difficult to believe that several of these medievally-garbed women were leading experts in their own fields. At this moment they were simply nuns, hearts and minds still bound by the words and meaning of the Office.

Once back in her own office, Reverend Mother sank thankfully into the chair, noting with amusement that this chair was lightly padded. No doubt out of respect for the fact that most Reverend Mothers were well over sixty, which made Mary Margaret something of an oddity as she was still under fifty.

She placed her missal on the table and stared as a handful of worn photographs dropped out onto the floor; they had not accompanied her at her entrance, she knew, for her own novice mistress had been a remarkably strict woman with firm ideas about allowing the outer world to impinge on the early days of a vocation.

In the years since her own entry, things had mellowed considerably, and it had been in the light of that later softness that Mary Margaret had been able to retrieve- many through her sister Len- the handful of snaps now on the table before her.
Author:  Cath V-P [ 25 Apr 2007, 01:38 ]
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You're up late, Lisa!

Thanks for the update, and the making of the point that these women are both highly qualified professionals and nuns.

Interesting comment on the way in which some things in the order have changed - hence the photographs.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ 25 Apr 2007, 02:37 ]
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You threw me there for a minute, Lisa - both because of the time you posted! and because I had to go back and skim from the beginning, since I'd become so engrossed in the child Margot at La Sagesse that I had forgotten how this started. And I don't think I commented on your last post, but I really liked Margot's flashes of insight and hints at the future there - some quite profound comments for a child of her age.

I echo Cath V-P's comments both on the fact that 'modern' nuns are highly qualified professionals as well as members of an order, and on the changes which have taken place over the years so that now it's all right for Reverend Mother Margot to possess those family photos.
Author:  Lesley [ 25 Apr 2007, 06:41 ]
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Nice to see that the years have brought changes that allow Margot to have family photos. Also liked the comment about the nuns being professionals in their fields.


Thanks Lisa

(Anyone else having difficulty swapping from this to the story 'A Change of Heart'?)
Author:  Dawn [ 25 Apr 2007, 12:04 ]
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Lesley wrote:

(Anyone else having difficulty swapping from this to the story 'A Change of Heart'?)


Most definitely


this is lovely Lisa - Margot feeling so at home in the convent as a child and then accepting that she is the best to do the job now, even if she personally doesn't want to
Author:  Lisa_T [ 25 Apr 2007, 13:03 ]
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Thanks for your comments!

Now, I have quite a bit more of this written, but am having some misgivings.

One is the fact that I'm not entirely happy with the POVs- rather oddly, the Reverend Mother sections are from Margot's POV, but the flashbacks are from the perspective of whoever she's talking to. I'd like to claim this was carefully planned by me, but it wasn't- part of this story was started years ago! So since I've started that way, I may as well go on and see if I can make something deep (!) out of that approach. But I know it's odd :lol:

The other is the degree to which I allow Vatican II to impact Margot's life in the 'present'. Do I stick with a EBDish view of convent life with only an comment now and then to show that things aren't as strict as they used to be, or do I go for accuracy? Personally, I prefer the former, but being a historian I have little niggles telling me I should make sure of my facts!

I'm also uncertain about the flashback approach- is it working? Should I take a DABCD route or continue a DADBDCD-nearly D narrative line?

H'mm, decisions, decisions.

Next bit:

Margot approached Miss Annersley’s study with lagging steps. Several years had passed since her Canadian soujourn, and she was once again at the Chalet School.

A few days previously Margot had been in this room for the most severe ticking-off of her entire career thus far, and only her own anguished repentance and fear had prevented the Head from expelling her- that and the knowledge that Joey Maynard was perilously near her confinement. Informing Mrs Maynard that her third daughter had admitted to blackmail and consequently could not be kept in school would not, the Head thought, be conducive to a pleasant delivery.

However, in making the decision to keep Margot in the school, Hilda Annersley had ignored to an extent the dictates of her own conscience. Almost any other girl would have been suspended at least, and Margot had very nearly had to face that, regardless of the state of her mother’s health.

It had only been prevented by a series of interviews with Margot herself, the Head Girl, Mary-Lou Trelawney, and the girl Margot had so wronged: Ted Grantley. All in all, Ted Grantley had proved extraordinarily understanding, and it had been in light of that understanding that the Head had been able to follow her innate preference for tempering justice with mercy.

Now, two days later, Margot was summoned to the study again. Timidly, she knocked on the door and heard the brisk command to enter.

“Ah, Margot. Come and sit down.”

Margot glanced up at her Headmistress through lowered lashes, trying to gauge her mood. The Head’s face was grave, and Margot’s heart shuddered uneasily down to her shoes.

After an unendurable few minutes, the Head finally put her pen down and looked straight at her pupil.

“I’ve spoken to your father,” she said with a stern gentleness that startled her hearer. “I’ve told him the full story, and he has agreed to permit you to keep the clock that triggered this disgraceful episode. However-“

“Is- is he furious with me?” Margot asked hesitantly, with wide frightened eyes.

Her brevet aunt gazed on her with more compassion than she thought wise to show openly. Jack Maynard had been so angry with the girl that it had taken Hilda a good hour of hard talking before he’d calmed down and agreed to leave his third daughter’s punishment in the hands of her headmistress. Margot had inherited her temper from her father- although his appearance of placidity rather belied this- and the Head had no wish for the child’s fragile sense of security to be shattered absolutely by a careless word from him. Bad enough that he still refused to talk to her.

Miss Annersley roused herself from her slight reverie- Margot, she was alarmed to see, had turned very white- and made herself reassure the girl.

“Well, he certainly isn’t happy about the way you’ve behaved, but you expected that, didn’t you?”

ETA: thanks to Mary R for pointing out some eejit typos. :wink:
Author:  leahbelle [ 25 Apr 2007, 14:04 ]
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Poor Margot. I think she was a very unhappy child.
Author:  Mrs Redboots [ 25 Apr 2007, 15:25 ]
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Yes, I do think your approach is working, Lisa! It's excellent, in fact.

In my Margot story, I did allow the post-Vatican II reforms to impinge, but (after initial disastrous experiments) tinged with common sense!
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 25 Apr 2007, 15:31 ]
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Really am enjoying this. Not being Catholic my knowledge about the 1968 vatican changes are vague to the extreme other than there were a lot and it rocked the church, so I won't know the difference! :D
Author:  PaulineS [ 25 Apr 2007, 16:00 ]
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Reflect the Changes. Margot would never have been able to stay in the pre Vactican II order, it must have been difficult enough as it was.
I am enjoying reading this.
Author:  Tan [ 25 Apr 2007, 21:18 ]
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I am enjoying this as well. I think it would be interesting to see how a strong character like Margot views the Vatican II changes. I know what you mean about trying to historical accuracy in drabbles ... :wink:
Author:  Lisa_T [ 25 Apr 2007, 21:33 ]
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Eeeep. Not sure that's quite the direction this drabble is gonna go! I'm more interested in how she got to the point of deciding that vows were for her and why she stuck with that path than in exploring her responses to Vat II...

...which would probably mean a certain amount of research that I don't have the time for at the moment! :shock:
Author:  Cath V-P [ 26 Apr 2007, 00:56 ]
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A very personal and inward narrative then? In which the Vatican II changes were more of an external acknowledgement that made her decision more comfortable?

I liked the last update Lisa - the careful balance that Hilda had to maintain between justice and mercy. And I liked the way you emphasised that Ted's understanding and compassion made this possible; it would be easy to overlook the fact that what Margot attempted could have ruined her life.

And the reference to Margot's 'fragile sense of security' is very telling.
Author:  Lesley [ 26 Apr 2007, 07:12 ]
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Like Miss A's tact in pointing out just how angry Jack is!

Thanks Lisa.
Author:  meerium [ 26 Apr 2007, 11:50 ]
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Lisa_T wrote:
I'm not entirely happy with the POVs- rather oddly, the Reverend Mother sections are from Margot's POV, but the flashbacks are from the perspective of whoever she's talking to. I'd like to claim this was carefully planned by me, but it wasn't- part of this story was started years ago! So since I've started that way, I may as well go on and see if I can make something deep (!) out of that approach. But I know it's odd :lol:


I kinda like the approach. It reminds me of a fab book I read that's a fictionalised account of Rudolph Nureyev's life, which switches between other people's recollections and his internal POV. So it's working for me!
Author:  Lottie [ 26 Apr 2007, 12:33 ]
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I just found this, and I'm loving these snapshots of Margot's present life interspersed with the flashbacks. I think it's working well. Thanks, Lisa_T. :D

I've just finished reading Antonia Forest's Marlows, including her views on Vatican II. It might be interesting to see Margot's views on some of the changes - perhaps the more modern and Protestant-like servivces, but not if you don't have time for it. Just keep posting some more, please! :halo:
Author:  Róisín [ 26 Apr 2007, 12:52 ]
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Thank you Lisa :D This is now officially my lunchtime reading so keep it coming! lol
Author:  MaryR [ 26 Apr 2007, 14:20 ]
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Lottie wrote:
It might be interesting to see Margot's views on some of the changes - perhaps the more modern and Protestant-like servivces,

I'd never thought of my services as being *Protestant-like* :lol: Just not in Latin!! And certainly at the moment, under the new Pope, we are bringing back things like incense (grr!) and trying to do away with guitars. Hmm!

Lisa, this is great but also very poignant. And I think you should include the changes in the church. I'll be glad to give you some more of my thoughts on those, if you want.
Author:  Lottie [ 26 Apr 2007, 15:08 ]
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MaryR wrote:
I'd never thought of my services as being *Protestant-like* :lol: Just not in Latin!!

I may have got the wrong end of the stick - I had to read the AFs quite fast so that two of them could go back to my daughter's library! :roll: But I do remember that the Merricks weren't at all keen on the changes, and actually had a priest come to the chapel at their house to say the Mass in Latin for them and any friends and neighbours who cared to join them. I thought I remembered Patrick describing it that way when he was telling Nicola about it, but I'm quite prepared to be corrected by someone who knows better.
Author:  Lisa_T [ 26 Apr 2007, 17:12 ]
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Quote:
I'd never thought of my services as being *Protestant-like* Laughing Just not in Latin!! And certainly at the moment, under the new Pope, we are bringing back things like incense (grr!) and trying to do away with guitars. Hmm!


I think abolishing the guitars sounds sensible. I like a little dignity in church services, so I often find the very relaxed approach of Pentecostal services (which is my own background) mildly embarrassing..

More of this later this eve. Just realised I forgot to post more last night... :shock:
Author:  Ruth B [ 26 Apr 2007, 17:20 ]
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Lisa_T wrote:
Quote:
I'd never thought of my services as being *Protestant-like* Laughing Just not in Latin!! And certainly at the moment, under the new Pope, we are bringing back things like incense (grr!) and trying to do away with guitars. Hmm!


I think abolishing the guitars sounds sensible. I like a little dignity in church services, so I often find the very relaxed approach of Pentecostal services (which is my own background) mildly embarrassing..

More of this later this eve. Just realised I forgot to post more last night... :shock:


Glad I'm not the only one!

I like Incense. :oops:
Author:  MaryR [ 26 Apr 2007, 19:23 ]
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Ruth B wrote:
I like Incense. :oops:

Unfortunately it renders me unable to breathe - some might say that's a good thing! :lol: Our priest had the bright idea of burning frankincense and myrrh one Epiphany (said he couldn't find any gold to burn!) and there was so much smoke that the altar was invisible. He hasn't done that again! :D

Guitars are very useful to sing with when there is no one in the parish who can play the lovely organ! :cry:
Author:  Tamzin [ 26 Apr 2007, 21:03 ]
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Lisa_T wrote:
Quote:
I'd never thought of my services as being *Protestant-like* Laughing Just not in Latin!! And certainly at the moment, under the new Pope, we are bringing back things like incense (grr!) and trying to do away with guitars. Hmm!


I think abolishing the guitars sounds sensible. I like a little dignity in church services, so I often find the very relaxed approach of Pentecostal services (which is my own background) mildly embarrassing..


I agree Lisa. I am a complete heathen, worse than Naomi from the Chalet POV. I wasn't brought up in any religion at all and am a complete agnostic. However if a law forced everyone to at least pretend to be part of a religion I'd choose the old-fashioned Catholic one. If you are going to have a religion let it be full of incense and mystery and dignity. The Latin services, the incense, the old music and the "otherworldliness" of the whole thing would be what spoke to my heart and sent shivers down my spine. All this relaxed, happy-clappy, pared down and dumbed down religion for the masses that people seem to like nowadays just seems too mundane to me. I'd want to be uplifted into the realms beyond our ken by a religion and to feel that the centre of my belief was something unknowable and beyond human understanding. I would not want my faith dragged down into the everyday and banal by the guitars, the plain English bible verses and the idea that "God" is your friend and just a regular guy like the rest of us.

You can probably tell I've had nothing to do with organised religions as I'm sure I've made loads of mistakes about services and offended every practicing member of a faith by my comments. Please believe that I mean no offense - it's just my opinion on what sort of spiritual ritual would speak most strongly to me and help to turn my mind towards the big questions of existence. I doubt I would approve of the changes Vatican II made to the Catholic Mass if I knew anything about the matter. Unfortunately I appear to be swimming against the tide on this one and as an agnostic perhaps I have rather a cheek to even speak of what sort of religious ceremony would work for me.

Anyway I'll shut up now. let's just say that I synpathise strongly with the views of Patrick in "The Attic Term" which I have just read even though I would never join his religion.
Author:  Lisa_T [ 26 Apr 2007, 21:09 ]
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No offence taken here. My dad was brought up RC, and I've been to a number of RC services. The most beautiful service I've ever attended was the funeral of my very devout great aunt, Mary. It took place on the Boxing Day of that year, and the church (which was rather lovely, as many Catholic churches are) was still lit up with candles and decorated for Christmas. I think Aunt Mary would have loved it.

Anyway.. a lickle bit more...:D

*Note to self: the preview button is my friend...

Margot nodded, and her eyes dropped to the ground. “Does Mamma know?” she whispered.

“No. You know your mother isn’t very well at the moment, and we didn’t want to worry her at this time. I may tell you,” the Head continued evenly, “that I have no intention of telling her of this sorry episode later on. What your father does is, naturally, up to him.”

“I should’ve thought about Mamma sooner, shouldn’t I? Only I didn’t. I only thought about me.”

Miss Annersley nodded gravely. “Unfortunately, Margot, in this case I am forced to agree with you. Your behaviour has been abominable- but you already know that, so there’s no point in going over it again. I sent for you simply to let you know that your father has been informed and that you may keep Emerence’s gift- but not, I must add, in School. It must stay at Freudesheim.”

“I don’t want it now anyway,” Margot muttered. “Can’t- mayn’t I give it back?”

“And hurt Emerence so badly- when she is leaving?”

Margot bit her lip. “I’m being selfish again.”

“Why do you not want the clock?” Miss Annersley asked, ignoring Margot’s statement.

Margot wiped her hand her across her eyes. “I just don’t want to see it again, that’s all. It’ll- it’ll remind me.” For the first time in a while, she lifted her eyes to meet the Head’s squarely.

“Remind you of what?” the Head prompted gently.

“Of what a beast I’ve been.“

“Don’t you think that could be a good thing?” Miss Annersley queried, for once passing over the forbidden slang. “If it helps you to stop and think-“

“I already know I’m a bad person,” Margot put in, simply. “I don’t need the clock to remind me.”

“Oh, my dear. Margot, come here.” Miss Annersley rose and crossed the room to the sofa. She sat down and beckoned the girl to join her- which, the Head noted, she did with some reluctance.

“Now, let’s get one thing clear. Your behaviour has been bad- very bad. I’m not going to lie to you about that. But that’s not the same thing as saying that you are bad. Do you understand?”

“But I must be bad!” Margot burst out. “They made me go away, and now even Len and Con don’t want me anymore-“

Hilda Annersley sent up a quick prayer for guidance. This was more complicated than she had dreamed.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 26 Apr 2007, 23:05 ]
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This is great Lisa and am glad Margot is finally talking to Hilda about it all. It fits so well with the HB version of Theodora with the hint of her becoming a Nun is discussed with Hilda I can't remember the exact comment but it goes along the line of You know what I've always hoped for (Margot to Hilda). Thanks for the update. Absolutely love coming on and finding a writer has just posted and update!! :lol:
Author:  Cath V-P [ 27 Apr 2007, 01:48 ]
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That was very sad and painful - Margot believes that she is bad, and this has become part of her thinking. Possibly this is the first time someone has said to her that while her benaviour is bad, this doesn't necessarily mean that she is.

Thank you Lisa.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ 27 Apr 2007, 02:35 ]
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Quote:
Hilda Annersley sent up a quick prayer for guidance. This was more complicated than she had dreamed.

But at least Margot has finally admitted where the base of her problem lies, hasn't she - and just why she 'attracts' trouble - her self-esteem is so non-existent that it's frightening in itself. Hilda has clearly realised this and will do her best to resassure the girl - and despite her qualms, I'm confident she will indeed help Margot.

Thanks for this deeper 'look' into the real Margot, LisaT - and for the hope for her future which is emerging so clearly here, too, despite her present despair.
Author:  Kathy_S [ 27 Apr 2007, 02:49 ]
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Very believable!

Thank you, Lisa.
Author:  Fatima [ 27 Apr 2007, 04:41 ]
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It's so sad to think that she still feels bad about having been taken to Canada.

Thanks Lisa.
Author:  Lesley [ 27 Apr 2007, 07:54 ]
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And here we also see that Joey isn't quite as good at 'reading' others as everyone thinks - otherwise why would she consistently not see why this was at the base of everything? But then she always did label everyone. :cry:


Thanks Lisa.
Author:  wheelchairprincess [ 27 Apr 2007, 10:56 ]
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Thanks Lisa, I'm really enjoying this.
Author:  MaryR [ 27 Apr 2007, 13:25 ]
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Hopefully Hilda will receive an immediate answer to that prayer.

Thanks, Lisa
Author:  Lisa_T [ 27 Apr 2007, 22:23 ]
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Ooops. Thought I'd posted more, and obviously not...

“Are you referring to Canada?” she asked carefully.

Margot nodded.

“But- my dear child, you know that was because of your health! You had been ill, and your parents were worried about you. They sent you away because they love you, not because they wanted rid of you!”

Margot turned anxious forget-me-not eyes on her Headmistress. “Is that really and truly what it was?”

“Really and truly, Margot. Come, child, do you think I’d lie to you?”

Margot looked at her for a long moment and then shook her head, allowing her eyes to drop once more. “N-no, Miss Annersley. I know you wouldn’t do that.” She glanced up at the Head through her long lashes. “I’m sorry,” she offered.

“Don’t worry about it,” Miss Annersley told her quietly. “Now, tell me why you think Len and Con don’t want you anymore.”

Margot’s hands twisted in the gentian-blue of her uniform. “They don’t need me any more, you see,” she explained, looking suddenly very young. “’Cos of Canada. I was away, and it was just them. Like twins, instead of triplets. And when they came to Canada I was so happy to see them, and at first it was just like it used to be. But it wasn’t, really. We weren’t triplets any more, not like when we three were little.”

“I understood that you liked it that way, Margot,” the Head said. “I thought you had made many friends at La Sagesse- as, indeed, Len and Con did.”

Margot shrugged. “They were just people to talk to. I didn’t think I’d need them when Len an’ Con came.”

“But what about Josette?”

“I didn’t see much of her, ‘cept at home with Auntie Madge. And Auntie Madge- Auntie Madge was always fussing over Josette, and worrying about Sybs being left here-“ Margot’s voice trembled a little. “I didn’t think they wanted me either,” she finished, very quietly.

“And then?” the Head prompted, sensing that this was the first time Margot had spoken these thoughts aloud.

“And then Mamma and Papa and everyone came, and I was so happy! I wanted to show them how grown up I was. I wanted them to like me. But I sort of wanted it to be like before as well, you know? Only it wasn’t. At La Sagesse it didn’t really matter, I’d been there longer.”

A pause. “That was nice. I was the responsible one. I got to show Len and Con around, ‘cos I knew the place. And at least they were there, so it was better. Then when we came home, we were put in different forms, so it was still like La Sagesse, but different when we were at home, ‘cos it was still Len and Con against me. Th-that’s why I liked Emmy so much. It didn’t matter if Len and Con didn’t want me. She wanted me.”

“And now she’s leaving,” Miss Annersley supplied, very gently.

Margot nodded, and her blue eyes overflowed for the first time. “Yes. I-I thought that if I got rid of Ted and Ros and Odette, Len and Con would want me again. We could be triplets, and then I wouldn’t miss Emmy so much when she left.”

“You know, now, that that was a very wrong thing to try to do,” the Head said, the compassion in her tone belying her words. Truth to tell, she was feeling a little guilty: whilst she had suspected that insecurity lay at the root of Margot Maynard’s troubles this term, she’d never imagined that the insecurity ran so deep.

“Y-yes, Miss Annersley. I’m sorry.”
Author:  Pat [ 27 Apr 2007, 22:29 ]
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Brilliant Lisa! Poor Margot.
Author:  Lesley [ 27 Apr 2007, 22:30 ]
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Poor child. Yes she's done a terrible thing - but you can see her reasoning - especially as, on her return to the CS she was immediately reprimanded because she was in a lower class than her sisters - the fact that Margot was actually in the correct class for her age doesn't seem to have registered.


Thanks Lisa.
Author:  Dawn [ 28 Apr 2007, 01:37 ]
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Lesley wrote:
And here we also see that Joey isn't quite as good at 'reading' others as everyone thinks - otherwise why would she consistently not see why this was at the base of everything? But then she always did label everyone. :cry:


Thanks Lisa.


But it is always much harder to "read" your own family than other people. You can see what has gone wrong/right with other families and their relationships, but it is so much harder to do with your own children (and I've made some awful mistakes with our three)


Margot being open about her insecurities for the first time ever, and the way Hilda is reacting is so interesting. And after this, it would explain why she didn't get expelled after the great book end incident - Hilda would have an extra concern about her insecurity and what being expelled would do to that.

(dawn who isn't thinking very clearly, but knows what she means and hopes other people do too :oops: )
Author:  Fatima [ 28 Apr 2007, 06:22 ]
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Absolutely; now I can see why she was given another chance because expulsion would have been the worst thing possible in this case. Very plausible. Thanks Lisa.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 28 Apr 2007, 08:44 ]
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I love the depth you've gone into this and the thought process Margot has followed about being sent to Canada without her family. It certainly is very plausible and highly likely. I also tend to agree with dawn, it is a lot harder to read your own family than everyone elses
Author:  Kathy_S [ 28 Apr 2007, 18:11 ]
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I can definitely see it happening that way.

Thank you, Lisa.
Author:  MaryR [ 28 Apr 2007, 20:58 ]
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It must be such a relief for Margot to be able to pour all this out to someone, a someone she knows will help make sense of it all for her.

Thanks, Lisa.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ 28 Apr 2007, 23:55 ]
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It's rather wonderful that Margot has been able to reason all this out for herself and once she has opened the flood gates, to be able to pour it all out to Hilda, who is, indeed, as MaryR says, the one person who will best be able to help her make sense of it. Although she will still fail from time to time - witness the bookend incident with Betty and the hockey incident in 'Challenge' - I've often felt that this chapter in Theodora was really the turning point in Margot's life.

Your 'expanding' of the situation told there, LisaT, only confirms this. Thank you for helping us to see these depths to her character.
Author:  Cath V-P [ 29 Apr 2007, 03:36 ]
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The extent to which this insecurity has become part of Margot is truly alarming. However, at least she has been able to tell Hilda, and hopefully move on.
Author:  Lisa_T [ 29 Apr 2007, 17:32 ]
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Elder in Ontario wrote:
It's rather wonderful that Margot has been able to reason all this out for herself and once she has opened the flood gates, to be able to pour it all out to Hilda, who is, indeed, as MaryR says, the one person who will best be able to help her make sense of it.



Is it a little unbelievable that she is doing this? She's not necessarily presented as particularly insightful/thoughtful in the books- and given her age, is she coming across as a bit of a prodigy?
Author:  Mrs Redboots [ 29 Apr 2007, 18:26 ]
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I don't think it's at all unbelievable. If anything, she's coming across as slightly younger than she is - which is understandable, given that she is unearthing long-buried fears from her childhood.
Author:  Lisa_T [ 29 Apr 2007, 22:38 ]
Post subject: 
That's ok, then... Here's the rest of that scene.. :wink:

There was a hopelessness in the young girl’s voice that made Miss Annersley glance at her sharply.

“Margot, look at me.”

Unwillingly, Margot did.

“I have an idea,” the Head continued. “I think it might help if you told Len and Con some of this, don’t you? Now, I know they’re probably still angry about everything that’s happened, but neither of them hold grudges- and I can promise you that they won’t hold a grudge against you.”

“Are you sure, Miss Annersley?”

Margot sounded doubtful and uncertain, and the Head realised anew just how shattered the girl’s self-esteem was.

“I’m sure. You see, Margot, they still think of themselves, and you, as triplets. I’m sure they’d be very sorry to hear about how you’ve been feeling- and in any case, it’s only being fair to yourself to let them know the full story, isn’t it?”

“Do I deserve them being fair, though?”

“Yes. Yes, you most certainly do. What you did was wrong, make no mistake about that- but since so much of your behaviour was tied up with your emotions, they need to know how you have been feeling and why. We’re all human, Margot. You know you need to work on controlling your temper, for example-“

“Yes. My devil.”

Miss Annersley hid a smile at this matter-of-factness and went on. “And from what you’ve told me today, I think that Len and Con have unintentionally been insensitive to you and your feelings. That’s something they need to work on as well, but they can only work on it if they know about it!”

“Oh. I never thought of that.”

“No, I don’t suppose you did. Well, here’s my suggestion. You can’t go home for a few days yet, but tomorrow afternoon I’ll invite the three of you to my salon for Kaffee und Kuchen. We haven’t done that this term, have we? Karen has been baking a tray of delectables for your mother, so we’ll steal a few of them and have a little treat. That will give the three of you some talking time. What do you think?”

The look of despair on Margot’s pretty face had begun to fade as the Head spoke. Now she looked at her with disbelief.

“Honestly, Auntie Hilda?” For the first time during that interview, she sounded like herself.

Her brevet-aunt nodded slightly. “Honestly, Margot. You’re really a very lucky girl, you know. Your family loves you very much- and I’m including myself and your Auntie Nell in that as well. I’m sorry if you have been feeling unwanted and insecure, and hopefully we’re now on the way to putting that right, and then you won’t have to worry about that any more.”

“Do you really think it will work?”

“I’m sure of it! I wouldn’t suggest it if I thought it was a bad idea. Now, it’s time for you to take yourself off. I’ll send Aunt Rosalie for the three of you tomorrow afternoon, so you may tell Len and Con not to make themselves too difficult to find. And in the meantime, I want you to take out that clock and think very carefully about everything that’s happened this term and why it’s happened. It’s a beautiful gift, my child- both in itself and what it represents.”

“What do you mean?”

Miss Annersley thought for a moment. “That clock was not cheap, Margot,” she said softly. “Emerence spent a lot of money buying it for you. No; don’t look like that. I haven’t finished. Do you know why she was willing to spend that amount of money? It was because she thought it was worth it- she thought you were worth it. I want you to keep that clock- keep it, and every time you look at it, remember two things: listening to your devil doesn’t ‘pay’ as you girls would say, and you are loved. Understood?”

The Head rose as she finished and Margot rose with her.

The girl nodded. “Yes, Auntie Hilda. I understand. I’ll remember. A-and, thank you!” –and to Miss Annersley’s surprise, the usually self-possessed Margot flung her arms around her headmistress in a tight and rather desperate embrace.

After a moment, Hilda Annersley ran a hand lightly over the coppery curls that were not so very far down, now. “Better?”

Margot stood back. “Yes. Thank you.”

“Good. Very well then; off you go! Try and keep out of trouble until tomorrow!”

Margot returned the Head’s smile with a beam of her own, and left the study looking in many ways a different girl.
Author:  Lesley [ 29 Apr 2007, 22:46 ]
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Awwww, Hilda working her magic again. Poor Margot - she sounds so bereft - think Hilda's idea will help.


Thanks Lisa.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ 30 Apr 2007, 00:07 ]
Post subject: 
This seems to me to be a very good idea - I think that Len and Con will be more than a little shocked to realise how unwanted Margot has felt. And once again, Hilda has shown her capacity for getting 'under the skin' of her pupils.

Referring back to your comment on what I said in my previous post, Lisa, I don't think that Margot's ability to reason things out for herself was unbelievable there. Quite apart from knowing that her parents considered her to be the cleverest of the triplets when she chose to apply herself, she was also at that stage of being 16 going on 4 going on a hundred, and while she more often chose to show her more childish side, she clearly was capable of mature thinking, too.

Thanks LisaT - I will be looking forward to seeing how Len and Con react.
Author:  Dawn [ 30 Apr 2007, 00:08 ]
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That was lovely - and I love how she pointed out to Margot that Emmy thought she was worth spending all that money on. Although quite materialistic, it will help her self confidence and help her remember that Emmy loved and valued her so much
Author:  Cath V-P [ 30 Apr 2007, 00:56 ]
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Fascinating to see Hilda explaining Margot to herself as it were, but how sad to see the girl's level of insecurity.

And how intriguing to have the clock symbolise two things - the things that have happened and the esteem in which Emerence holds Margot.

I agree with Elder's comment too - Margot really is that mixture of maturity and childishness that characterises midle adolescence, and with a bright and questioning brain as well.
Author:  Lottie [ 30 Apr 2007, 09:47 ]
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Poor Margot. Thank goodness Hilda both understands her, and can help her to overcome her difficulties. I look forward to seeing the triplets tea party with Hilda.

Thanks, Lisa! :)
Author:  Lisa_T [ 30 Apr 2007, 10:50 ]
Post subject: 
Actually, I haven't written that scene- but if people want it I can do? I admit that as a reader it's the kind of thing I'd like to read myself... so ..?
Author:  Helen P [ 30 Apr 2007, 10:55 ]
Post subject: 
Lisa_T wrote:
Actually, I haven't written that scene- but if people want it I can do? I admit that as a reader it's the kind of thing I'd like to read myself... so ..?


Yes please Lisa! :D Thoroughly enjoying all of this, thank you!
Author:  Lesley [ 30 Apr 2007, 10:57 ]
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Definitely - very interested in how Len and Con react.
Author:  Cath V-P [ 30 Apr 2007, 12:10 ]
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I'd also like to read that, Lisa.
Author:  Loryat [ 30 Apr 2007, 14:28 ]
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I'm really enjoying this. I always thought Margot got a bit of a raw deal being always the bad one, and I like that you're getting under her skin.
Author:  MaryR [ 30 Apr 2007, 17:33 ]
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How Hilda delves into people's psyche and probes their weak spots - then applies the soothing plaster. :lol:

Thanks, Lisa.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 30 Apr 2007, 22:32 ]
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I'm so glad Margot was able to talk things out and hope it goes well with Len and Con
Author:  Lisa_T [ 01 May 2007, 00:42 ]
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Okey doke. I'll write that scene, but you'll need to give me a day or two to do it! :D
Author:  Cath V-P [ 01 May 2007, 01:50 ]
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Splendid! Have some inspirational chocolate!
Author:  Róisín [ 02 May 2007, 13:16 ]
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Just caught up, thank you Lisa.
Author:  Lisa_T [ 04 May 2007, 03:00 ]
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Part of the next scene is written, and I had intended to post it...



....completely forgetting that it's on a separate hard drive. I'm having a geeky moment and decided to dual boot xp/linux on my main laptop, and so backed up all my documents onto a different drive as a precaution. As I'm still OS fiddling, I haven't put the stuff back on again.

But yes, part of the Hilda/trips bit is indeed done...
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 05 May 2007, 00:40 ]
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How can you tantalise me like that Lisa?
Author:  Tara [ 06 May 2007, 23:17 ]
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Just caught up with this, RL having been a pain recently, and I love that scene with Margot and Miss Annersley, it's just right, and expands and explains so much. The clock as a testament to Emmy's love as well as a reminder to keep Margot on the straight and narrow is spot on, too. Looking forward to the scene with Len and Con.

BTW, having missed out on much of the previous discussion, may I slip in a word of support for modern forms of worship! Just on the lines that there is an alternative pov, I hate incense and, although I love stately and mysterious language in itself, when it comes to something that deeply affects my life, I quite like understanding what I'm reading. :D Some of my more profound spiritual experiences have happened in a very informal setting, so - chacun a son gout.
Author:  Lisa_T [ 10 May 2007, 23:16 ]
Post subject: 
I'm not a great fan of the scent of incense myself. It makes me a bit choky, like in a smoky atmosphere. Which is no longer a problem in NI, hurray.

And while my nice new OS is still not completely tweaked to my satisfaction, it's stable enough for me to have loaded my files on again, so here you are....

*
It was a hot afternoon and Len and Con were sprawled under a conveniently shady tree with a book they were reading together. There Margot found them, having been advised by Miss Dene that the Head was awaiting the triplets in her own quarters.

Len looked up as Margot’s shadow fell across the book. She rolled on her back and grinned, rather tentatively, at her sister.

“Looking for us, Margot?”

Margot nodded and shifted from one foot to the other. Len could not see her face, which was blackened from the sun behind her, but she knew her triplet’s body language well enough to guess that the younger girl was nervous. Scrambling to her feet, Len placed a hand on Margot’s sunburnt arm.

“Margot?” Len’s violet-grey eyes were anxious.

Margot shook her head with a trace of the old defiance. “Aunt Rosalie sent me to get you,” she began abruptly. “Auntie Hilda wants to see all three of us in her salon.”

Con, most incongruously, managed to look both suspicious and oddly guilty. “Why? What have we done?”

Len nudged her. “Don’t be a goop, Con. If it was school stuff Auntie Hilda wouldn’t want us in the salon. I know!” Len’s eyes shone. “Maybe the babies have been born!”

Margot shook her head, causing her red-gold curls to bounce around her face. “I don’t think it’s that at all,” she said. “And,” she added, as Con opened her mouth to say something, “if we don’t all scram now we’ll all be in trouble!” Whereat she turned and began to march in the direction of the house.

Seeing no help for it, Len and Con followed her silently. Their fears vanished, however, when they were met by their brevet aunt with the kiss on the cheek that they were accustomed to receiving from her out of school, but their suspicions remained. What was going on?

“I was starting to wonder if you’d forgotten about me,” Miss Annersley told Margot, laughing a little. “Now, come along, all of you, and sit down. Miggi will be here in a moment with some of Anna’s biscuits and,” the Head paused impressively, “English tea.”

Delighted, the triplets grinned at each other. English tea was a treat at any time, and Anna’s prized biscuits even more so.

“Lemon biscuits, Auntie Hilda?” Con queried eagerly.

The Head laughed. “Still a sugar baby, Con?” she teased. “Yes, it’s lemon biscuits. It would be more than my life’s worth to not provide them! Now sit down, do, and stop looking like you’ve been sent for and couldn’t go!”

“We were!” Len pointed out with a smirk, curling up in her pet armchair by the window. “Do you not want us to set the table, Auntie Hilda?”

“Not at all. Miggi is bringing everything. And here she is!”

The maid who waited on the staff lumbered- there was no other word for it- into the room and put down the tray laden with small cups and saucers, a pot of tea, and a plate of biscuits. Len moved to help Miggi unload her burden and was tempted to wonder how anyone so clumsy could manage trays with such unexpected grace.

Finally, Miggi stepped away from the new-set coffee table, smiled shyly at her mistress, and vanished. Her footsteps could be heard advancing down the hall, and it was not until they faded completely that Len and Con turned expectant faces to Miss Annersley.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 10 May 2007, 23:50 ]
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Lisa!!! I was tap dancing with glee at the idea of an update until you left me hanging like that. "Not happy, Jan" (For the non-Aussie's that's a quote from an Australian add) Runs off laughing :lol: :lol:
Author:  Lesley [ 10 May 2007, 23:51 ]
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Good to see more of this - thanks Lisa.
Author:  Miranda [ 11 May 2007, 02:47 ]
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Quote:
Con, most incongruously, managed to look both suspicious and oddly guilty. “Why? What have we done?”


:lol: :lol:

I hope their tea goes well!

*laughing at Fiona and her 'not happy Jan!' - I haven't seen that ad for ages!*
Author:  Karoline [ 11 May 2007, 10:05 ]
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Glad to see more of this Lisa :)
Author:  MaryR [ 11 May 2007, 11:35 ]
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Lisa T wrote:
The Head laughed. “Still a sugar baby, Con?” she teased. “Yes, it’s lemon biscuits. It would be more than my life’s worth to not provide them! Now sit down, do, and stop looking like you’ve been sent for and couldn’t go!”

How human she is, and how lovely. (I know, I know... :oops:)

You did have to leave us on a cliff, didn't you, Lisa? :twisted:
Author:  Lisa_T [ 11 May 2007, 12:53 ]
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I think you must have mixed me up with someone else, Mary. Me, do cliffs? The reason for the abrupt stop is simple- that's as far as I'd got before computer tinkering! :D More forthcoming when I've written it. I had parts of it in my head last night, but then fell asleep...
Author:  Catherine [ 11 May 2007, 13:11 ]
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Lisa_T wrote:
I think you must have mixed me up with someone else, Mary. Me, do cliffs? The reason for the abrupt stop is simple- that's as far as I'd got before computer tinkering! :D More forthcoming when I've written it. I had parts of it in my head last night, but then fell asleep...



It was very selfish of you to go to sleep without writing anymore...! :wink:
Author:  Lesley [ 11 May 2007, 18:27 ]
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Can't understand why anyone would do cliffs myself. :wink:
Author:  Pat [ 11 May 2007, 19:41 ]
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Lesley wrote:
Can't understand why anyone would do cliffs myself. :wink:


Wouldn't be anything to do with having a 'devil' would it Lesley? :halo:
Author:  Lesley [ 11 May 2007, 20:56 ]
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Pat wrote:
Lesley wrote:
Can't understand why anyone would do cliffs myself. :wink:


Wouldn't be anything to do with having a 'devil' would it Lesley? :halo:


:lol:
Author:  Cath V-P [ 12 May 2007, 02:37 ]
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Why would she need help?! :lol:
Author:  Tara [ 13 May 2007, 23:09 ]
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Lovely. Thanks, Lisa.
Author:  Lisa_T [ 14 May 2007, 01:18 ]
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:P @ Catherine :wink:

And more.... this scene is growin' wisibly... but just a liddle bit for now...

*
That lady sipped her tea slowly, her eyes passing over the three girls. Len, now seated with Con, her grey eyes trustingly fixed on her brevet-aunt’s face. Con- so often overlooked, but possessed of acuity beyond her years. She looked wary. Margot, sitting alone apart from her sisters, seemed as isolated as she probably felt at this moment.

Well, I can do something about that immediately, the Head thought. She extended her hand to the youngest of the triplets. “Come, Margot. There’s no need for you to sit across the room like that.”

Hilda Annersley noted that for a split second, the girl’s face lit up. Once Margot was comfortably settled again- complete with a refilled cup of tea and a second biscuit- the Head thought it was time to begin. She placed her cup gently in its saucer.

“I’m afraid I still haven’t heard anything from your father, girls. It looks like we’ll all be waiting on those twins for a little longer!”

The faces of Len and Con fell.

“They’re taking so long!” Con said, opening her brown eyes very wide.

“I thought maybe that was why you wanted to see us,” Len added, rather wistfully.

“Babies take their own sweet time about arriving, as you should know by now! As soon as I hear anything, I’ll let you know. That’s a promise. In the meantime, I hope the ‘English tea’ and lemon biscuits are some consolation! I know it has been a difficult term for you- for all three of you.”

Miss Annersley was interested to note that Len and Con blushed as furiously as Margot at her words. She made a mental note to find out what, precisely, Mary-Lou Trelawney had said to them. Evidently, it had made an impact.

“I’ve been trying to let Con and Margot look after themselves a bit more,” Len confided, unwittingly providing Miss Annersley with a partial answer to her unasked question. “It’s nice not to feel guilty about spending time with Ros and Ted, but it’s odd.”

Con glanced at the Head through her long lashes, lying in dark semi-circles over her pink cheeks. “I know. I know I mustn’t forget what Mary-Lou said, either. I don’t want to become like she said, and I don’t like hurting people. There’s another advantage,” she added, brightening a little, “’cos if I think before I speak I’ll be less embarrassed.”

The Head failed to suppress her smile. “As in Daniel and the lions, Con?”

Con, nearly purple now, nodded vigorously. “Exactly that, Auntie Hilda. Oh, I know it was funny- but I was just a kid then and people do keep on and on about it.”

Miss Annersley laughed. “I know. We’re not very good about letting our legends drop, are we? Your Auntie Nell still likes teasing your mother about the time your mother hurled verbal abuse at her when they went camping!”

At this, the triplets giggled- even Margot, the Head was pleased to see.

“I’m pleased to see that you and Len have both been thinking over the events of the past term,” Miss Annersley continued. “I know it’s been horrible for all of you, but I think, at the end of the day, you will find that you have gained much from the experience. I’d like to add one thing to what Mary-Lou seems to have said to you: this episode came about because, rightly or wrongly, Margot felt excluded from your tripletship. Whether that is true or not is beside the point,” the Head went on as Len and Con exchanged quick glances. “How Margot perceived it, however, is exactly the point.”
Author:  Lesley [ 14 May 2007, 04:32 ]
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*Thinks the Spanish Inquisition has nothing on Hilda's brand of questioning.*

Thanks Lisa!
Author:  Lisa_T [ 14 May 2007, 19:35 ]
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whoops, just realised I left a few lines out. Duh. Will add them in later as am at uni now...
Author:  MaryR [ 14 May 2007, 19:56 ]
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Lisa_T wrote:
I think you must have mixed me up with someone else, Mary.

Oh, I could never do that, Lisa. You're far too unique. :mrgreen: :mrgreen: Witness the missing lines. :twisted:

Miss Annersley's style is also unique - don't ask any questions, and in the ensuing silence the answers will come tumbling out. :lol:

:popper: I note missing bit is now added - was it a mad scramble, Lisa? :mrgreen:

How lovely Hilda is to Margot, how perceptive. And how Margot appreciates it.
Author:  Lisa_T [ 14 May 2007, 20:04 ]
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H'mm, I have to admit I wasn't sure about that bit, but.... she does have a record for doing something along those lines. And Lesley, don't say things like that. I really don't want to be inspired to write a holocaust-style drabble with Miss Annersley taking that comment a little too literally. I know just enough about the Spanish Inquisition to make it deeply unpleasant...

Mary, the missing lines is what happens when you write'n'post on the one evening, and forget exactly where you'd got to.... :wink: :D

And I'm procrastinating. I need to run across to the library and print out 78 pages worth of Samuel Whyte's ideas on female education in Belfast in the late 18th century. That'll cost me at least a fiver. Bah.
Author:  Catherine [ 14 May 2007, 20:16 ]
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Missing lines?!

And to think I thought I'd missed a post or part of a post and went hunting for it! :roll:

I dread to think what Miss Annersley would have to say about such carelessness ... :wink:
Author:  Jennie [ 14 May 2007, 20:25 ]
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And there's no more of Dr. Venables.
Author:  Tara [ 15 May 2007, 00:00 ]
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Miss Annersley is splendid here, and a very sane approach to the constant harping on old 'funnies'.

I'll be interested to know why Margot's face lit up, though, when the lost lines have been reclaimed!
Author:  Lisa_T [ 15 May 2007, 00:12 ]
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I'm quite happy to post more Venables, but I thought people had lost interest. Am adding missed lines now...
Author:  Cath V-P [ 15 May 2007, 02:29 ]
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Hilda's use of open-ended questions cunningly disguised as observations is so masterly.

Thank you Lisa.
Author:  Smile :) [ 15 May 2007, 19:44 ]
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Just read all of this, it is great, thank you Lisa.
Author:  Kathy_S [ 16 May 2007, 05:29 ]
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Thank you, Lisa. :D
Author:  Tan [ 16 May 2007, 11:56 ]
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I'm looking forward to how Hilda handles this situation.
Author:  Dawn [ 19 May 2007, 15:19 ]
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Just caught up on this Lisa and looking forward to some more - please?
Author:  meerium [ 23 May 2007, 11:40 ]
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No more yet? Oh well, will just have to wander off again *Whistles innocently, not at all hinting for more*

I'm liking this very much - it's nice to read a convincing version of how Margot gets to where we know she gets to!

(What a confusing sentence! Chalk it down to brain fade)
Author:  Lisa_T [ 26 May 2007, 01:01 ]
Post subject: 
Well, here's a little more as a reward for your patience! :wink:

Margot shrugged. “I didn’t know how to,” she admitted. “Besides,” honestly, “I thought that it was only because we were always in different forms. I thought- no, expected- it to change once we were all together.”

“But we’re triplets!” Len protested. “Did you think we were going off and leaving you?”

Con looked up. “She could be right,” she pointed out, startling her hearers.

Margot’s blue eyes widened, but it was Len who spoke.

“Right? Oh, Con!”

Con’s dark eyes appeared unseeing as she talked her ideas out. “Look at earlier, f’r’instance. We were free. We could have been together, but we weren’t. You and I, Len, were reading our book.”

“But Margot doesn’t like the books we read!”

“Maybe not, but I’d still have liked to have been asked!”

There was silence.

Margot continued. “I’m always the odd one. Even at home. Len’s the responsible one. Con’s the imaginative one. Me- I’m the sick one, or the naughty one, or the difficult one. It’s always you and Con, Len! Ever since Mamma and Papa sent me off to Canada that time with Auntie Madge-“

“But that was because you were ill!” Len returned, evidently close to tears. “I remember Mamma telling us, Meg, and she cried! Don’t you remember? She didn’t want you to go. She cried! We all cried!”

“But Canada was the break,” Con put in, seeming to the watching Miss Annersley curiously detached. “Margot had to learn to be independent without us- and you know, Margot, you did. We thought you liked that.”

“That’s what Auntie Hilda said,” Margot whispered. “But don’t you see, Con? You all came over and kept talking and talking about things at home- in England, I mean- and I didn’t know what you were talking about. No-one seemed really interested in what I was doing- just me, me apart from Josette and Ailie. No-one wanted to know about La Sagesse, really, until you found out you would be going there too.”
Author:  Cath V-P [ 26 May 2007, 02:23 ]
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Interesting - especially Con, who seems able to grasp this point of view surprisingly swiftly. Has she prehaps been thinking things over for herself?

Thaank you Lisa.
Author:  Lesley [ 26 May 2007, 07:08 ]
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Con is very perceptive - it's a pity that most of the time it was put down as being tactless.


Thanks Lisa.
Author:  MaryR [ 26 May 2007, 14:05 ]
Post subject: 
But then Con, like Hilda, has plenty of imagination and can walk in another's shoes. She probably feels that separateness that Margot saw as a wall between herself and the two others when they all met up again in Canada. How little we really know of the inner life of even those we love. :cry:

Thanks, Lisa
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 26 May 2007, 21:43 ]
Post subject: 
Cath V-P wrote:
Interesting - especially Con, who seems able to grasp this point of view surprisingly swiftly. Has she prehaps been thinking things over for herself?


But Mary Lou did say in Theodora was that Con was quite perceptive. She said something along the lines of Con tends to sit back but then bang she'll say something that indicates she has noticed everything going on. I think Con was always dismissed as being dreamy that not many people realised or paid attention
Author:  Catherine [ 27 May 2007, 14:33 ]
Post subject: 
Lisa_T wrote:
Well, here's a little more as a reward for your patience! :wink:

Margot shrugged. “I didn’t know how to,” she admitted. “Besides,” honestly, “I thought that it was only because we were always in different forms. I thought- no, expected- it to change once we were all together.”



Slightly confused ... what is it that Margot didn't know how to do/think/act? :?
Author:  Lisa_T [ 04 Jun 2007, 19:06 ]
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Miss Annersley, still watching closely, saw Con’s dark eyes drop and Len bite her lip- but not before they exchanged a fleeting glance that was in itself testimony to Margot’s words.

Finally, Len looked up and met her sister’s eyes. “Honestly, Margot- we never meant it to feel like that. I –we- never thought you felt it like that.” Her voice grew quieter. “We’ve been awfully selfish, haven’t we? We just never thought. Like Mamma says, you need to look beneath the surface of people, and we didn’t do that with you, Margot.”

Margot flushed. “Maybe not, but you’re better at it than I am, Len. You’re like Mamma and Mary-Lou-”

“I don’t see how!” Len protested, managing to go even redder than the youngest triplet.

“But-”

Miss Annersley decided it was time to intervene. “Margot’s right, Len. You do have a genuine gift for empathising with others. I know you didn’t realise what was going on with Margot, but we often don’t see what’s happening to the people closest to us. I don’t want this session to turn into a round of self-incrimination. It only wastes time and helps no-one- but I think, after this, you’ll all be more sensitive in your communications with each other.”

Con looked slightly alarmed. “D’you mean we have to be together always and- and gush?” she demanded, sounding comically horrified.

The Head laughed. “Really, Con, can you see me telling anyone to ‘gush’, as you put it? Not at all. You’re growing up, girls, and you’re starting to branch off and develop your own friends and interests. That’s as it should be- but never forget that close, unique tie between you, and don’t take it, or each other, for granted. Prize your own individuality, girls- but share, too. Share each other, and share yourselves. Do you understand?”

To Miss Annersley’s amusement, the triplets nodded, almost as one. She smiled at them again.

“And that’s all the preaching I’m going to do for one afternoon. Let’s talk about something else. Have you thought about names for the twins yet? Len, go and put my percolator on and we’ll have another drink. I don’t know about you three, but I’m parched!”

*
Author:  Lesley [ 04 Jun 2007, 19:25 ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Lisa - good to see more of this.
Author:  Pat [ 04 Jun 2007, 20:12 ]
Post subject: 
Oh good. More. Thanks Lisa.
Author:  Lisa_T [ 04 Jun 2007, 20:46 ]
Post subject: 
And there's loads more to come. That bit was effectively a fill in by request- I've written considerably more scenes. :D
Author:  Pat [ 04 Jun 2007, 20:51 ]
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So post them!!!! Stop procrastinating!
Author:  Lisa_T [ 04 Jun 2007, 21:09 ]
Post subject: 
What, and find myself having to write more in a hurry? Uh uh. Besides, I couldn't post more if I wanted to. I'm in my office and supposed to be writing up a chapter, but I'm procrastinating...

..but not in the way you mean.

:twisted:
Author:  Tara [ 05 Jun 2007, 00:08 ]
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That was alovely interview, full of insight and common sense. Hilda handled it so well, and that united head-nod from the triplets said so much!
Author:  Sal [ 05 Jun 2007, 11:41 ]
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Thanks Lisa, loved the united head nod from the triplets.
Author:  MaryR [ 05 Jun 2007, 19:48 ]
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Miss Annersley gush? God forbid! :lol:

Thanks, Lisa.
Author:  Lisa_T [ 08 Jun 2007, 00:39 ]
Post subject: 
*g* Thought you'd appreciate that, Mary...

Here's a wee bit more..
*

Reverend Mother’s eye fell on a snap that had been taken the year she’d left school. The year before, in the Chalet School’s jubilee year, Miss Dene had suggested that each June a photograph should be taken of that year’s outgoing Sixth formers with their own form-mistresses and the Heads. Everyone had fallen on this idea with glee, and a new tradition was founded.

The snap Mary Margaret now held showed her own cohort with Miss Annersley, Miss Wilson, Miss Derwent and Mdlle de Lachennais. All three of the triplets, like the other prefects, were gathered towards the front row, and Reverend Mother, her memories of school renewed, noted that she herself was seated next to Ted Grantley, and looking supremely comfortable there. How things could change in a few short years, to go from threats of blackmail to comfort and friendship! A smile lingered as she glanced closer and saw that, surreptitiously, each of the triplets was clasping the hand of another. How things could change, indeed…

The clock episode had given her a sharp shock, and Reverend Mother devoutly hoped now that never again had she been so maliciously selfish. Her temper, however, continued to be her bugbear- only the day before, she had had to absent herself from a meeting with her Prioress, who could be a most annoying woman- but the years had granted her some self-control.

She replaced the photograph and rested her head on her hands. What, she wondered, had become of the clock? It had not been among the things sent to her by her sister Len. Perhaps Sister Helena knows, she mused- and then repressed the thought. The clock- however ostentatious- had served its purpose well three decades before. Assuming it still existed, assuming that one of the rambunctious young Entwistles had not smashed it- even then she would not ask for it. She was vowed to poverty, after all…

Reverend Mother rose and moved towards the window, her hands folding automatically within her wide sleeves. An ostentatious clock, she thought again, a smile tugging at one corner of her mouth. Her eyes roved the scenes outside: clean, but arid and dusty and suffocatingly hot. Even she was warm in the cool darkness of her study.

Perhaps the clock could serve one final time, she thought, and returned to her table to pen a letter to her sister, her memories dipping into the past as she wrote.

*
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 08 Jun 2007, 04:13 ]
Post subject: 
That was lovely. I especially liked that Margot always had a temper but that she had learned some self control with it. I always thought her friendship with Ted was good to have developed. They were never portrayed as best friends but they did seem to get along well
Author:  Lesley [ 08 Jun 2007, 06:15 ]
Post subject: 
Very realistic - that she never totally lose that temper, but instead learn to control it.

Thanks Lisa.
Author:  Helen P [ 08 Jun 2007, 06:25 ]
Post subject: 
Absolutely lovely, thank you Lisa. :)
Author:  Sal [ 08 Jun 2007, 11:33 ]
Post subject: 
A lovely reflective scene, thanks Lisa
Author:  Lisa_T [ 08 Jun 2007, 19:43 ]
Post subject: 
And still more...

**
Len Maynard pulled off her skiing paraphernalia and sighed deeply. Emulating Mary-Lou, she felt, was no simple thing. True, the Head hadn’t eaten Len- but then, she hadn’t given Len the reassurance she’d been after, either.

“What did you expect, anyway?” she muttered under her breath as she pulled on her house slippers. “Even out of school, a school question has to be answered by the Head, not Auntie Hilda. But oh-“

Len bit her lip and went to seek her sister. Sensitive and empathic by nature, she had been deeply upset by Margot’s revelations in the Head’s salon the year before. Len was intensely clannish, and the mere implication that her sister- her triplet, no less- had been feeling so excluded from their much-treasured tripletship had devastated her and left her confused.

Mary-Lou’s advice had been to back off and let her triplets make their own messes- but how, Len had wondered, did she do that without upsetting Margot further? In one way, the fact that Margot had remained behind in Vb the following academic year had been a blessing in disguise. The younger girl had fewer opportunities to interfere in her sisters’ friendships- even if she had wished to do so- and Len at least made the effort to ensure that the time the sisters did spend together was time well spent.

Judging by Margot’s request that morning, the ties binding the triplets had been repaired. Even a year before, proud Margot would never have made such a request of her sister. And now Len had to face her without the reassurance that Margot so longed for…

“What did she say?” Margot demanded breathlessly as she burst into the room.

Len grimaced and shrugged slightly. “She said she meant it. Which is no surprise really, but-“

Margot’s shoulders slumped. “I thought she meant it. Oh Len, it’s not fair. I’ve tried so hard!” The blue eyes fixed themselves on Len’s grey ones. “Len- you do believe I’ve tried, don’t you? After last year-“

Len gave her sister a friendly shove. “Don’t be more of a ninny than you can possibly help! ‘Course I know how you’ve tried. Your marks speak for themselves, my love. And as for the other- well- I know you’ve tried in other ways, Margot. You’re not the person you were last year, honestly.”

Margot relaxed. “I’m glad. I’m glad you think that, Len. But what will Mamma and Papa think when they hear what Auntie Hilda said? Maybe they’ll think-“

Len reached out and gave Margot a slight shake. “Wait a minute. I haven’t told you everything. You were right- Auntie Hilda did mean what she said about turning you into Inter V next term if the form doesn’t pull up. She- she said that she was sorry that she’d frightened you and others who do slog, but if the average doesn’t go up-” Len shrugged.

Margot’s pretty mouth set in a firm line. “Then we’ll jolly well have to make sure that the form average does go up. I’m not going to be demoted to Inter V when I’ve slogged all year just because people like Prue Dawbarn and-and the rest of them can’t be bothered!”

“I thought you said you couldn’t make the rest of the idiots slog if they don’t want to?” Len put in, remembering Margot’s earlier complaint.

“I know. I don’t think I can, but I’ll have Rue and Francie and Pen to back me up. Priscilla, too. Goodness knows, if she can’t make Prudence hoe in then no-one can!”

Len beamed. “You do that and you’ll have nothing to worry about. That was one of the things Auntie Hilda suggested to avoid the other thing- she said that you were popular and a leader, and if you used your influence wisely then the form should improve.”

Margot was scarlet. “Did she really say all that?”

“And how! And you know, she’s right. She also said something about all of you had to work for the form as well as yourselves. To-to think of the whole rather than just the part.”

“Oh.” Margot grimaced in her turn. “It doesn’t sound like much fun. It’s been such a time just to get myself working hard always without resting, never mind having to worry about the rest of them!” She heaved a sigh. “I suppose, though, that was Auntie Hilda’s point. We’ve been selfish as a form, and not thought about how our individual marks could affect everyone.”

Len nodded her chestnut head vigorously. “Got it in one. That’s exactly what she did say.” She nudged the other girl. “You see, Margot? You can think this stuff out for yourself when you try.”

Margot sighed again, so gustily that the ends of Len’s braid moved. “Yes, but I need to be prodded into it! It just comes naturally to you and Con.” Margot’s voice was wistful. “I don’t think I’ll ever-“

“What?” Len prompted when the moment lengthened.

But Margot only blushed rosily again, and her sister could get no more from her. Fortunately for Margot, Anna rang the bell at that point, and they had to go.

*
Author:  Lesley [ 08 Jun 2007, 21:19 ]
Post subject: 
Poor Margot - why should she have to force Prudence and the others to work? Surely that should be the teachers' jobs?


Thanks Lisa - nice to see Margot thinking deeply.
Author:  MaryR [ 08 Jun 2007, 21:26 ]
Post subject: 
But different forms do have different characters, often quite markedly so, and can only really change from within. They've got to want to change for their own sake, not just because it is forced on them.

Love the secret peeps into Margot's mind as a nun - and am wondering just what she wants with that clock.

Thanks, Lisa.
Author:  Tara [ 08 Jun 2007, 23:38 ]
Post subject: 
Hard on the girls who are working, especially when Margot has tried so hard to make good.

I, too, wonder what she wants with the clock. The reminiscences are lovely.
Author:  Kathy_S [ 11 Jun 2007, 03:53 ]
Post subject: 
Thank you, Lisa. You have been nice and busy while I was away. :D
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 11 Jun 2007, 10:01 ]
Post subject: 
Really enjoying the expanding of scenes in the books
Author:  Lisa_T [ 14 Jun 2007, 21:23 ]
Post subject: 
Not so sure about this bit. It feels a bit like poaching in Mary's territory! :D

**

*

Reverend Mother smiled to herself as she set aside the finished letter to Len and lifted an unopened missive that still awaited her attention. She recognised the writing, and had saved this letter until more formal business was done, for it was pure pleasure for the nun.

Fifteen years before, a small olive-skinned maid was handed into the care of the Blue Nuns- and an unexpected bond had formed between the child and the young Sister Mary Margaret. Veronique had conceived a great admiration for the nun, and Sister Mary Margaret had relished the company of the little girl. Not until then had she realised quite how deeply she missed her own younger siblings, or her resentment at missing the growth of her nieces and nephews.

When Veronique was old enough, Mary Margaret suggested, with some diffidence, that the child be sent to the Chalet School on the Josephine Bettany scholarship. Rather to Mary Margaret’s own surprise, the suggestion was deemed good- and now, nearly ten years later, Veronique was a Sixth former and a prefect at Mary Margaret’s own old school.

The correspondence had begun shortly after Mary Margaret’s election to Superior. As the new Reverend Mother, it had been Mary Margaret’s duty to correspond with the current Head of the Chalet School on business relating to Veronique’s education. In fact, the idea for the correspondence between nun and girl had come from Mrs Entwistle, who had been secretly amused by Veronique’s evident attachment to Mary Margaret.

Despite slow beginnings, the exchange grew and flourished, becoming a source of sustenance for both nun and girl, and Mary Margaret found in their correspondence a certain symmetry. Many years before, when Mary Margaret had been only a little younger than Veronique was now, she had tentatively initiated a similar correspondence with the woman she still thought of as ‘Auntie Rob’, despite the fact that by that time Robin Humphries was fully professed and thus known as Soeur Marie-Cecile.

That correspondence, Reverend Mother remembered now, had been inspired by a rare conversation with her godmother- one Grace Nalder- in the aftermath of Mary Margaret’s final major row at school.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 14 Jun 2007, 21:32 ]
Post subject: 
Really liked the update. Thanks
Author:  Lesley [ 14 Jun 2007, 23:22 ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Lisa.
Author:  Cath V-P [ 16 Jun 2007, 14:06 ]
Post subject: 
That was very satisfying, especially the chain of Veronique writing to Margot, who in her turn had written to Robin.
Author:  Sal [ 16 Jun 2007, 19:43 ]
Post subject: 
That was lovely thanks Lisa.
Author:  Kathy_S [ 16 Jun 2007, 20:14 ]
Post subject: 
Hope we get to hear the details!
Thank you, Lisa.
Author:  Lisa_T [ 18 Jun 2007, 23:19 ]
Post subject: 
Which details, Kathy?

Thanks for all the comments, and here is more. Someone send my bunny more chocolate as this is the last flashback I have written!- but there's a lot of it, so you'll be kept going a while yet.

**

Grace Nalder was enjoying a snatched moment of leisure in the pretty Staffroom at St. Mildred’s. For once, the room was empty, and also for once, she was up to date with her paperwork. Consequently, Grace had turned on the wireless and curled up in the most comfortable armchair next to the window for a pleasant snooze.

The sound of the door opening roused her from her light doze, and she smiled as Gillian Culver entered.

“On a break, Gill?”

Miss Wilson’s secretary- and an Old Girl of the Chalet School- snorted. “Hardly. No, there’s a call for you in the office. It’s Miss Annersley.”

Grace’s eyebrows rose. “Hilda? What does she want with me at this hour?”

Gillian shrugged. “Not knowing, can’t say. But I’m sure you’ll find out if you can exert yourself!“ and Gillian disappeared through the door before the PT mistress could exact her vengeance.

Laughing quietly, Grace followed the younger woman back to her office, where she picked up the phone.

“Hilda? It’s Grace. Gill said you wanted to speak to me?”

“Yes. I’m sorry to disturb you like this, Grace, but-“

“Don’t be ridiculous. You’d never disturb anyone! Is there a problem?”

There was a slight pause. “You could put it that way. How would you feel about undertaking some of your godmotherly duties?”

Grace gaped at the receiver, inadvertently causing Gillian to chuckle. “Uh- my what?!”

“Your duties as a godmother!” Hilda Annersley repeated, her beautiful voice slightly crisper than was its wont. “In other words, I’d like you to have a word with Margot Maynard.”

“Certainly, but-. Hilda, what’s all this in aid of? If Margot’s having a problem, why not send her to Joey? She is next door, after all.”

“Joey’s too close. Margot needs someone to listen to her for a while- someone to offer her advice and support, and preferably someone who is not in authority over her. Do you see?”

“Ah. Like that, is it? Very well, Hilda, I’ll do it. Like you say, I am the kid’s godmother. Are you going to send her over now?”

“Yes. She’s been in my salon most of the morning, so I’m sure she could do with a change of scene. She’s got a bad toothache too, so go gently. However, I think she needs you more than the dentist right now!”

“All right. I’ll see what I can do.”

“Thank you, Grace. I appreciate it. Margot will be with you shortly.”

Thoughtfully, Grace returned the receiver to its cradle. Hilda Annersley’s hints had been intriguing, to say the least. Why was Margot in the salon during school hours, toothache or no toothache? Why did Miss Annersley not want to send the girl to her mother? And what did Margot need to discuss so desperately?
Author:  Lesley [ 19 Jun 2007, 00:02 ]
Post subject: 
Nice to see Grace again - love her conversation with Hilda.

Thanks Lisa :lol:
Author:  Kathy_S [ 19 Jun 2007, 01:45 ]
Post subject: 
Lisa_T wrote:
Which details, Kathy?

The ones in the upcoming posts, of course! :lol:

Thank you, Lisa.
Author:  Cath V-P [ 19 Jun 2007, 13:00 ]
Post subject: 
Most intriguing, and lovely to see so many of Margot's interactions with other people.
Author:  Tan [ 19 Jun 2007, 16:57 ]
Post subject: 
Nice update, sending the left over Black Magic chocolates in our office to tempt your bunny :lol:
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 21 Jun 2007, 02:09 ]
Post subject: 
Toothache??!! That would put it after the episode with Betty. Wonder what Grace will say to her
Author:  Lisa_T [ 27 Jun 2007, 17:06 ]
Post subject: 
Well, now you'll find out.... :D

She did not have long to consider before Margot arrived, and Grace was shocked at the girl’s pallor.

“Margot, my dear! What have you been doing with yourself? You look like something the cat’s brought in!”

Margot smiled faintly, but Grace noted that the smile did not reach her eyes. “Thanks for letting me come, Auntie Grace.”

Grace smiled up at her. At over five foot nine, her goddaughter was considerably taller than Grace’s own five foot three. “It’s a pleasure. Now come and sit down and tell me all about it.”

Margot’s shoulders stiffened and then relaxed at this. “What did Auntie Hilda tell you?” she asked, her tone cautious.

“Very little, beyond mentioning your toothache and the fact that you need to talk to someone. If your face is anything to go by, my dear, your tooth is pretty bad. Have you had something for it?”

Margot nodded, one hand going up to hover near the swollen cheek. “Matey gave me something a while ago. It’s easier now.” She dropped her hand and then clasped both hands tightly, her knuckles turning white.

Grace looked at her and took in the position of Margot’s hands. The still-stiff shoulders. The darkened eyes. Something was clearly very wrong here. Grace leaned forward and placed her small brown hand over the girl’s.

“Margot?” Her voice was very gentle.

A long pause, and then, “Auntie Hilda nearly expelled me this morning.”

Grace’s hand tightened around Margot’s. “Why?”

A tear dripped from Margot’s blue eyes, and then another, and another. “I lost my temper. Again. But this time-“ Margot’s voice broke.

Grace waited, knowing that patience would serve her best.

“This time,” Margot continued, her voice shaking, “I nearly killed Betty Landon.” Margot raised her eyes to her godmother’s face. “Oh, Auntie Grace, I didn’t mean to, honestly I didn’t, but it was hurting so much, and then Len-. And Betty- she doesn’t mean any harm, but she said the wrong thing at the wrong time, and I-I just exploded!”

“What happened?” Grace prompted, deliberately keeping her voice level and soft.

Margot’s eyes dropped again. “I picked up one of my bookends. One of my heavy wooden carved ones,” she emphasised, “and threw it at her. It hit her on the side of the head and- and she went down.”

“How badly was she hurt?”

Margot wrenched a hand from under Grace’s and rubbed her eyes. “Not very badly, thank goodness. Len said- Len said that Papa joked about spoiling Betty’s beauty when he had to shave her head. To check the wound, you see. It bled so much….. Auntie Hilda said that if the bookend had struck slightly differently, it would have killed Betty.” The tears dripped again.

Grace stared at her goddaughter. She knew Margot had a temper- she’d always known it- but she’d thought, like everyone else, that the girl had it under control these days. Disappointment welled within Grace, and she fought to suppress it. It would do Margot no good.

“I see.”

Margot went on as if she had not heard. “And Auntie Hilda was so disappointed in me- but at least she didn’t expel me.” She shuddered. “Imagine if she had. Me- Mamma and Auntie Madge would be so ashamed. I’d be ashamed- if I can be more ashamed than I am already.”

“Oh, Margot.”

“I know. I know, Auntie Grace. I’m such a disappointment. Auntie Hilda gave me another chance after what happened three years ago with Ted Grantley. I’m not stupid,” Margot added, her blue eyes flickering to Grace’s and then away again, “I know how wrong it was, to try and blackmail Ted. Any other headmistress in any other school probably would have expelled me. And I’d have deserved it. You know, she’s never even told Mother about that. I’m glad…. And as soon as I got enough sense to realise Auntie Hilda had given me another chance, I swore I wouldn’t waste it. I really wanted to do better. And now…”

“Margot, you have done better. Look at you! You got a double remove, remember? You’re a sub-prefect, aren’t you?”

Margot’s laugh was tinged with bitterness. “Yes, I’m a sub-pree, for all it’s worth. I’m surprised Auntie Hilda didn’t strip me of it, now I think of it. She said herself that even Felicity would not behave like I did.” She was silent for a moment. Then, “She forgave me- Auntie Hilda, I mean. I’ve got to apologise to Betty- but that’s no punishment at all! I nearly killed Betty!”
Author:  PaulineS [ 27 Jun 2007, 17:24 ]
Post subject: 
Poor Grace, what a problem to land in her lap. :(

Margot has shown some understanding and remorse, but does she need to be critised or built up? :banghead:

I have had some difficult situations as a lecturer, but this would be challenge, send support to Grace. :)
Author:  Lesley [ 27 Jun 2007, 17:34 ]
Post subject: 
Think Grace has been handed a very hot one here!

Yes Margot is very remorseful - but the fact remains she got no punishment for it - as she said Miss A didn't even strip her of the sub-prefect post.


Thanks Lisa
Author:  Kathy_S [ 27 Jun 2007, 19:19 ]
Post subject: 
Thank you, Lisa. I don't envy Grace this one -- though I'm still glad Margot was given another chance.

Interestingly, I just read in Eleanor Roosevelt's autobiography that her best friend was expelled from English boarding school for throwing an inkwell at the German mistress, though I suppose the public disrespect factor puts that a notch higher on the misbehavior scale.... (Eleanor tried pleading with the headmistress but failed to make an impact.)
Author:  Cath V-P [ 28 Jun 2007, 00:09 ]
Post subject: 
I wonder - did Hilda take a calculated risk here in not punishing Margot? She obviously seems to have expected it, but in not following that path did Hilda's response jolt Margot into a greater awareness and thinking about what she'd done? And in trying to work out how to prevent it happening again?

Thanks Lisa.

Edited because my spelling had an off-day... :oops:
Author:  MaryR [ 30 Jun 2007, 16:33 ]
Post subject: 
Having just caught up on all this, Lisa, I think I agree with Cath. Punishing her might well have been counter-productive. This way she is punishing herself. Being ashamed is better than being beaten.

Hope Grace can find some words of wisdom and understanding to build on Margot's shame.

Thank you.
Author:  Elle [ 03 Jul 2007, 07:51 ]
Post subject: 
For some reason I have only just started reading this, but having started I was unable to stop!

Thank you Lisa, this is excellent.
Author:  Sal [ 05 Jul 2007, 17:16 ]
Post subject: 
Ouch what a situation for Grace to have thrown at her.

Thanks Lisa
Author:  Jennie [ 06 Jul 2007, 11:54 ]
Post subject: 
Poor Grace, what a situation to be in.
Author:  Abi [ 09 Jul 2007, 15:19 ]
Post subject: 
Lisa, I've just read this all the way through and it's absolutely beautiful. I've never really thought a lot about why Margot would behave in the way she did but you've got so far into her character, I feel as though I'm reading something EBD wrote.
Author:  roversgirl [ 04 Nov 2007, 23:07 ]
Post subject: 
as a newbie, have been going throuh all the drabbles slowly. am really enjoying this one too :) am loving following margot's path through school to her chosen path.
Author:  Lisa_T [ 28 Mar 2008, 21:38 ]
Post subject: 
Thanks, folks. This is not an abandoned drabble - I will return to it. I'm kinda floating around fandoms at the moment, so this may be updated sooner rather than later. Besides, I'm tempted to send it to Ruth at GGB since she asked to see some of my non DT stuff, so I do plan to finish it. Only I stupidly lost the notebook with the plot notes in it, grr.
Author:  Lisa_T [ 02 Apr 2008, 23:42 ]
Post subject: 
Heh. I have just made an embarrassing discovery. I had actually written all of this scene between Grace and Margot, but forgot to post it all! So for those of you who were following this, there's a few bits more. Note, however, that once we come to the end of the Grace/Margot bits I haven't got any more written, although posting the rest of this chunk and seeing your comments may inspire me. This is one story that I really want to finish, eventually!:roll:

You may need to remind yourselves of the last post, however!



“Perhaps Miss Annersley felt that conventional punishment wasn’t appropriate in this case,” Grace suggested. “After all, Margot, you’re sixteen years old. The school equivalent to putting you to bed without supper wouldn’t do any good, would it? What else did the Head say?”

Margot’s pale cheeks flushed. “She said to pray,” she whispered. “She said to pray for help in fighting my bosom enemy. But prayer- seems somehow wrong. Especially from me.”

“What do you mean?”

The flush deepened. “You know how I’m going in for medicine?”

Grace nodded, wondering where this was going.

“That’s not the only thing I’m aiming for. I-I was thinking- hoping- that eventually I might join the Blue Nuns and work as a medical missionary.”

Grace only just managed to suppress her gasp of surprise.

Margot’s face flamed even more, if that was possible. “Oh, I know. You think it’s impossible- for someone like me. Len would be a good nun, wouldn’t she? She’s so thoughtful, so helpful. She’s always in control of herself. Even Con. I could see Con as a nun- she’s quiet. But me?”
Author:  Lesley [ 03 Apr 2008, 04:58 ]
Post subject: 
Good to see more of this.


Thanks Lisa.
Author:  roversgirl [ 03 Apr 2008, 09:07 ]
Post subject: 
Thanks for the update! Looking forward to the rest of the conversation. :)
Author:  Catherine [ 03 Apr 2008, 10:36 ]
Post subject: 
Nice to see an update.

Any chance of some more? :wink:
Author:  PaulineS [ 03 Apr 2008, 13:50 ]
Post subject: 
Good to see more of Margot and Grace. EBD forgot the godmothers role and it is nice to see it developed in the different drabbles.
Author:  leahbelle [ 03 Apr 2008, 16:55 ]
Post subject: 
Thanks, Lisa. Good to see an update.
Author:  MaryR [ 03 Apr 2008, 17:12 ]
Post subject: 
My excuse is old age! What's yours, young lady? :shock: Forgotten you had it indeed! :P

No, Margot, it doesn't work like that! God wants a willing heart, a feisty spirit - and someone who hears Him calling.
Author:  Lisa_T [ 03 Apr 2008, 23:13 ]
Post subject: 
Well, it wasn't I forgot I had it. I simply forgot to post it. Or thought I had. And age is such a nice handy excuse, isn't it, Mary?
*contemplates drabbling MaryR*

**

Grace started to smile. “Oh, Margot. How long have you had this idea?”

Margot seemed to relax a little. “For years. Off and on. The idea came when we were in Canada that time.” Margot’s blue eyes became uncharacteristically dreamy. “The sisters at La Sagesse all seemed so peaceful, so holy. I liked that. I wanted to be that. But my devil didn’t like it.”

“Didn’t he?” Grace did her best to keep a straight face.

A glimmer of a grin appeared on Margot’s face. “It sounds mad, doesn’t it? But I don’t think he did. I’m not like that, you see- quiet and peaceful and holy- and every time I tried to be it, my devil got me worked up. Angry and frustrated- and then it all came out. And besides,” she finished honestly, “part of me didn’t want to be it either. It’s so hard being nice and unselfish all the time. It’s much easier to do what I want- what my devil wants. I suppose that means I shouldn’t even think about-“

Grace laughed, and Margot looked at her, evidently startled.

“You know,” the mistress began confidentially, “my sister is a nun. She entered when she was twenty one, and we- my family- were all so surprised. She wasn’t like the general idea of a nun at all. She was loud and bossy and she loved dancing and sport. She hated being still. When she told us she was going in, we laughed at her. We told her she’d last six weeks. And then six months… but we were wrong. She’s still there. She’s still bubbly and I’m sure she can still be argumentative- but now she has inner peace as well. I’ve seen it in her eyes. Nuns aren’t all alike, any more than anyone else!”

“I suppose it would get boring if they were!” Margot agreed, but her eyes were wistful.

Grace leaned forward again. “I’ll tell you something else. They’re not perfect, either. And they don’t want perfect people. I’ve heard my sister talk. Some girls enter who seem ideal for the life on the surface- they’re quiet and gentle and they can follow all the rules. And,” Grace added with a grin, “there’s a lot of rules in religious life, especially at first! But even those people have trouble- and they can decide it’s not for them and leave. It takes strength and determination and character to pursue the life of a religious- and I can assure you, Mary Margaret Maynard, that you have all three in abundance.”

Margot blushed again, but Grace knew it was a happy blush. “Do you mean that?”

“Of course! Here’s something else to think about it, if this really is something you’re considering for the future. You have a nun in the family. Why don’t you write to her- and ask her about the life?”

“Auntie Rob, you mean? I do. I mean, we all do.” Margot sounded confused.

Grace shook her head. “No, I mean you write to her privately, not as part of the family. Write and tell her what you’re thinking of. Ask her about the reality of convent and community life- and what it really means to be vowed to poverty, obedience and chastity in today’s world.”

*
..and yes, I know I am dribbling this out...
Author:  Pat [ 03 Apr 2008, 23:21 ]
Post subject: 
What a wonderful picture that conjures up - dribbling it out!!!

Thanks Lisa. Hope there's a lot more of it when I get back from the G!
Author:  Lisa_T [ 04 Apr 2008, 00:58 ]
Post subject: 
Oh that's right, you're all a-gathering. That means I needn't bother posting til Sunday night.

:twisted: :twisted:
Author:  Lesley [ 04 Apr 2008, 06:59 ]
Post subject: 
Good advice there from Grace - though she really should talk to Margot about her 'Devil' too - she's too old to be using that as an excuse still.


Thanks Lisa
Author:  roversgirl [ 04 Apr 2008, 07:56 ]
Post subject: 
Oh, that was lovely. Thanks :)
Author:  Catherine [ 04 Apr 2008, 09:10 ]
Post subject: 
Lisa_T wrote:
Oh that's right, you're all a-gathering. That means I needn't bother posting til Sunday night.

:twisted: :twisted:


That's just an excuse to be lazy! :evil:

Could you not have found a better description than 'dribbling it out'!! :shock:
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 04 Apr 2008, 12:47 ]
Post subject: 
I didn't realise I had missed on the two previous post to this update so have had a wonderful time catching up. Can understand why Ruth wants to read more of your work if this is anything to go by I can't wait to see DT

Thanks Lisa
Author:  MaryR [ 04 Apr 2008, 20:03 ]
Post subject: 
Quote:
*contemplates drabbling MaryR*

Funny you should say that, Lisa. :twisted: I do have some members of the board as naughty Middles in 'New Dreams'. Care to join them? :witch: You could make a trio with the terrible Twins and come up with something to rival their toilet paper shenanigans. :P

Wise words, Grace - keep drip-feeding her those thoughts and you might convince her. Not sure Robin is a good idea as a role model, though, as she was always a good child, on the whole, not given to breaking rules, even if she did have a strong character underneath.

Thanks, Lisa. :D
Author:  Lisa_T [ 04 Apr 2008, 22:45 ]
Post subject: 
That's a good point, Mary - without the toilet paper. And Robin, as Anne Seymour points out to Jo, was often too frail to be anything but good. She showed enough of a rebellious streak to insist on going with the social stuff against everyone's advice... hey, there's a thought : Robin Humphries, Rebel. But I'm not trying to dig too deeply into Robin's past here - and I do think it's perfectly in character for the CS to refer Margot to a nun aunt, although if you can think of another candidate, let me know! :lol:

And drabble me if you like, Mary dear. I do have a fun drabble running at the moment, and as several people can tell you, I am more than capable of doing something ... interesting... in revenge! :wink:
Author:  Catherine [ 05 Apr 2008, 10:58 ]
Post subject: 
Lisa_T wrote:
And drabble me if you like, Mary dear. I do have a fun drabble running at the moment, and as several people can tell you, I am more than capable of doing something ... interesting... in revenge! :wink:



Putting it mildly, I'd say! :roll:
Author:  PaulineS [ 05 Apr 2008, 17:05 ]
Post subject: 
Just because some people are away it does not mean the rest of the board do not want updates!!

Please can we have some more?
Author:  MaryR [ 05 Apr 2008, 20:29 ]
Post subject: 
Lisa_T wrote:
I do think it's perfectly in character for the CS to refer Margot to a nun aunt, although if you can think of another candidate, let me know! :lol:

Welll, since you're asking.....one with a great deal more humph, and her own rebellious streak, into the bargain! Ask Hilda for the address. :mrgreen:

Lisa T wrote:
And drabble me if you like, Mary dear. I do have a fun drabble running at the moment, and as several people can tell you, I am more than capable of doing something ... interesting... in revenge! :wink:

Not in Revenge, you're not, my dear! :P :twisted:
Author:  Lisa_T [ 05 Apr 2008, 20:59 ]
Post subject: 
*g* True, but this needs to remain strictly canonical as it may be sent to Ruth at some point. so... :P yourself! :lol:

Here's the last bit I have written. Also, what should come next?
-Margot and Hilda
-Margot as RM
-Margot writing or visiting Robin..? (just so that I can funky her up a bit, just for Mary... :wink: )

**
Margot looked thoughtful. “I could, couldn’t I? I’d have to tell Aunt Rosalie to post my letters separately. I know she sends them in a bunch- to save on postage, even though Auntie Rob’s still in France. I could give Aunt Rosalie the extra, couldn’t I?”

“I don’t see why not.”

Margot rose. “Thanks, Auntie Grace. You’ve helped more than I can say, but I think I’d better go now- it’s nearly time for Kaffee und Kuchen.” The new light in Margot’s lovely face dimmed a little. “It seems later, somehow.”

Grace reached up and squeezed the girl’s shoulder. “It seems that way because it’s been an emotional day,” she said kindly. “And one final word of advice, Margot? It might be an idea to tell your Auntie Hilda some of what we’ve discussed. She is very wise, and I think you will find her helpful- especially since she’s easier for you to get to than I am.”

Margot looked down and then back up again, almost shyly. “Yes. I-I’ve been thinking about talking to her, off and on- but I didn’t know where to start. I-I need to report to her when I get back, before I go to Matron again. Perhaps I’ll tell her then.”

Grace stood on tiptoe and kissed Margot on the cheek. “Take your time. Well, child, I’m glad if I’ve been some help. You may find that today will work for good, in the long run. I’m sure a shock such as today’s will help you in your fights with your devil. Somehow, I think you’ll find him easier to ignore from now on.”

Margot nodded. “I hope so. I’ll do my best, anyhow, and saints can’t do more!”

Grace laughed and put a hand on Margot’s back to guide her to the door. “Indeed they can’t- and neither can would-be saints! Now, off with you. Good luck with Auntie Hilda, and carry on fighting the good fight. Bless you!”

With that, Grace gave her furiously blushing goddaughter a gentle shove towards the door, and stood watching as the girl walked swiftly back in the direction of the school. A smile hovered on her lips as she noted that Margot’s easy carriage had returned- a sure indicator that their talk had done some real good.

Grace closed the door, still smiling, and went to seek her own Kaffee with the assurance of a job well done.
Author:  PaulineS [ 05 Apr 2008, 21:50 ]
Post subject: 
Margot and Hilda is next in sequence but it could be a reflection on it by Margot as RM who we have not seen for sometime. Thanks for the update.
Author:  Sal [ 05 Apr 2008, 23:39 ]
Post subject: 
Great to see this back, thanks Lisa
Author:  Lesley [ 06 Apr 2008, 07:44 ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Lisa.
Author:  roversgirl [ 06 Apr 2008, 09:20 ]
Post subject: 
Thanks - I think Margot as RM might be good next :)
Author:  MaryR [ 06 Apr 2008, 15:54 ]
Post subject: 
I'm afraid I've made a choice - all three! :lol: But since you insist, it would have to be Hilda, wouldn't it? My own preference, obviously, :roll: but also Grace told her to, so must have an inkling of how much Hilda could help. And Grace herself is so lovely and so loving.

Thanks, Lisa.
Author:  Celia [ 06 Apr 2008, 17:44 ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Lisa, I 've just read this right through, and look forward to
whatever comes next :!:
Author:  Catherine [ 07 Apr 2008, 09:36 ]
Post subject: 
I'd like Margot and Hilda, please. You could though, have Margot describing what happened with Hilda, in a letter to Robin, which might kill two birds with one stone ...


Whatever you choose and however you choose to do it, I'm enjoying this ... and looking forward to being able to nag you in June ... :wink: :D
Author:  Lisa_T [ 07 Apr 2008, 13:10 ]
Post subject: 
*splutter* I bet you are! I like the Hilda/Margot scene idea too, but I may include a RM retrospective first. If only I could remember what I did with the notebook that had this story plotted out!
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 07 Apr 2008, 14:11 ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Lisa. I have a bit of a soft spot for Margot
Author:  Chris S [ 09 Apr 2008, 14:58 ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Lisa. I have just read this through at one sitting and really enjoyed it. It is beautifully written. I do wonder though why Margot stayed a nun when she seems to miss the outside world so much.
Author:  Mrs Redboots [ 09 Apr 2008, 15:45 ]
Post subject: 
Thank you Lisa - how lovely to see this updated (I am only visitng the Board about once a week, so had a lovely surprise when I came on!).
Author:  Kathy_S [ 10 Apr 2008, 02:36 ]
Post subject: 
I've always seen Margot-as-nun as a logical progression, but Grace was a bit of a nonentity. Good job bringing the pair of them alive!
Author:  Lisa_T [ 11 Apr 2008, 03:19 ]
Post subject: 
Next bit:

*

Reverend Mother shook her head a little as she finished her rounds. She deliberately avoided the hospital these days, not wanting to be distracted from what she now considered her main calling, but she still liked to circulate about the school and hospital wings at least once a day. She was about to leave the hospital wing for the convent proper when a voice stopped her.

She turned, her hands primly folded in their sleeves. “Yes, Sister Helena?”

The young nun who reminded Reverend Mother so achingly of how her sister Len had looked as a girl smiled. “I promised I would talk to you, Mother,” she began, falling into step with the older nun. “Marie Vernier has been talking to me whilst she's been here on placement. She believes she had heard the Call, and is considering pursuing it with us. And yes,” the young woman continued with a quick, radiant smile, “I have told her that we will not even consider her as an entrant until she has at least finished her degree. I thought that perhaps you could have a word?”

“Of course,” Reverend Mother agreed easily. She always enjoyed talking to the interns. “What about yourself? What do you think of her, Sister?”

That quick smile flashed again, and Mary Margaret had to blink back sudden tears. It was an unexpected and unlooked-for grace to have her own niece so close, but it was also a challenge and a reminder, spoken with the voice of Mary Margaret's old novice mistress: We must not be singular. We must give our love to all.... and it was so hard not to be singular, for Helena combined her mother's sense of responsibility and intelligent empathy and a passion that matched the young Mary Margaret's with a charm that was all her own.

“I like her,” Sister Helena said confidently. “She has much love, and she gives it intelligently. I have no doubts about her faith, or her determination, but - “

“Yes?”

Helena's hands lifted. “I think that she might be having a hard time at university because of her faith,” she said. “I am not totally certain that she does not look on religious life as a haven and a refuge.”

“I see. Well, university life is often a time of testing and struggle.” Mary Margaret's lips twitched a little as she remembered some of her own struggles. “All right, then, Helena. Tell Marie that my door is open to her should she wish to talk to me. And no,” she added with a smile as her niece opened her mouth to protest. “I will not order that she comes. It could be an important conversation for her. She must come willingly and with an open mind, or she will not hear what I say.”

Sister Helena inclined her head in acceptance. “Thanks, Mother. I'll pass that on. Excuse me, please. I'd better get back and see what Sister Anne is doing to my patient!”
Author:  roversgirl [ 11 Apr 2008, 06:22 ]
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Whta a lovely update - I can understand how hard it must be to have her niece so close. Thanks :)
Author:  Lesley [ 11 Apr 2008, 07:07 ]
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I think it must be lovely to have her close - even though she must continually ensure she's not guilty of favouritism.


Thanks Lisa.
Author:  Catherine [ 11 Apr 2008, 09:23 ]
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Thank you very much, Lisa.
Author:  abbeybufo [ 11 Apr 2008, 10:19 ]
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Thanks Lisa - that must be a very difficult and continuing test for RM - lovely update :D
Author:  PaulineS [ 11 Apr 2008, 11:35 ]
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Thanks Lisa a poistive update
Author:  Alex [ 11 Apr 2008, 23:25 ]
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I'm so glad this is back Lisa, it's brilliant. Long may your inspiration continue!
Author:  MaryR [ 13 Apr 2008, 17:15 ]
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It might be hard for her not to show favouritism but it must be very moving to find that she has family around, to find that what we give away often is returned to us with blessing.

Thanks, Lisa. They are both lovely here.
Author:  Lisa_T [ 26 Apr 2008, 02:19 ]
Post subject: 
Not too many more sections now, although I don't know how long each section will be! :lol:

Glad you are all enjoying. Remember, I have taken the 'easy' option, and Vatican II is not making a major impact on this story. Consider that it takes place in a near parallel universe, not unlike the CS itself, actually... :wink:

Next bit:

Reverend Mother watched with a smile as the younger woman returned to the hospital, her movements quick but not rushed. Her smile lingered as she returned to her office, and found an anxious Marie waiting for her.

“Sister Helena tells me you wish to speak with me, my child,” Mary Margaret said in the fluent French that was a permanent legacy of her schooldays. “Come in and be comfortable, and you can tell me all about it.”

Her heart went out to the girl as she listened. Her determination. Her fear. Her shame. Her joy. All of these emotions were familiar to Mary Margaret and she remembered her own difficulties in accepting the reality of her vocation. Helena was right; Marie was indeed struggling in the secular atmosphere of university, and Mary Margaret sympathised. Medical students were notorious for the vivacity of their social lives, and she remembered her own attempts to compromise her desire to join in with the others with her wish to be true to her Call.

“Should I not board at a convent?” Marie was asking. “Halls are so – so… wild, almost. I do not wish to be exposed to temptation.”

“But that is the whole point,” Reverend Mother told her gently. “You must test your vocation. Do not turn away from the others, but join with them as far as you feel it is right to do. We are not an enclosed order, my child, and if you join us you must be able to move in the world when it is necessary. You cannot minister effectively if you have spent your entire life behind convent walls.”

Marie seemed to relax a little. “I never thought of that.”

Mary Margaret’s lips twitched. “We rarely do. Others try to tell us, but I think this is something we must learn from experience. Live life to the full, but according to the dictates of your conscience, and you will be all the better prepared for our life if you should choose to pursue that course.”

When Marie left the small study, her back was straight and her eyes alight with purpose and hope. Reverend Mother watched her go with satisfaction; that one would make a good nun, if she chose to enter, but in the meantime she could experience life to the full. She did not want girls who entered because they felt they were good for nothing else; sour grapes, of whatever sort, were as unpleasant in a convent as they were anywhere else.

She leaned her head on her hands and thought of the conversation she’d just had, and her own similar conversation, many years ago, with an ‘Abbess’ of a very different kind.
Author:  Lesley [ 26 Apr 2008, 08:34 ]
Post subject: 
Lisa_T wrote:
She leaned her head on her hands and thought of the conversation she’d just had, and her own similar conversation, many years ago, with an ‘Abbess’ of a very different kind.



Now who could that be? :lol:


Margot was lovely with Mary there - and it is very true, you cannot know if something is true unless it has been tested.


Thanks Lisa.
Author:  abbeybufo [ 26 Apr 2008, 09:57 ]
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Some very telling points there, Lisa - in particular

Quote:
You cannot minister effectively if you have spent your entire life behind convent walls


Quote:
sour grapes, of whatever sort, were as unpleasant in a convent as they were anywhere else


Thanks, looking forward to learning about her conversation with the
Quote:
‘Abbess’ of a very different kind


:D
Author:  MaryR [ 27 Apr 2008, 19:10 ]
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Margot might have had her troubles as a child and teenager, but she is using all that experience well, and is able to guide the aspiring postulants with great wisdom and understanding. Lovely scene, Lisa.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 27 Apr 2008, 21:33 ]
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Thanks Lisa. As difficult as Margot sometimes Margot grappled life, it certainly helped her live it to the full which helps her now as a nun
Author:  Lisa_T [ 28 Apr 2008, 23:50 ]
Post subject: 
Next bit:

Hilda Annersley paused at the door of St. Mary's, relishing the last moment of coolness before being assaulted by the wall of heat that she knew she would encounter once she left the porch of the small Anglican chapel behind. It was half-way through May, and already very warm, despite being only a few weeks into the summer term.

Her eyes lingered on the small group of prefects who clustered outside the neighbouring Our Lady of the Snows. Ted, Francie and Ruey had their heads together. Len was standing, slightly away from the others, and talking with young Reg Entwistle, her face bright and her hands moving animatedly. Her triplet sisters were also near: Con was apparently listening to the lively conversation, but her brevet-aunt was more than familiar with the dreamy expression on the girl's face, and knew that Con's imagination had taken her eons away from the Platz.

And then there was Margot. The youngest triplet, oddly, was not taking part in her compeers' discussion, and she seemed as lost in a world of her own as Con. This was sufficiently uncharacteristic for her headmistress to look more closely. Margot, Miss Annersley realised, was watching her triplet sisters, and the Head was startled by the deep sadness she could see on her lovely face.

I think it's time I organised those chats, the Head told herself mentally as she nodded at Miss Wilmot and Miss Ferrars in a silent signal to muster their charges and begin the three-mile walk back to school. She usually made time for all of the sixth formers in their last term, and this year would be no exception, but she would be the first to admit that sadness would mingle with pride as she arranged the talks for this year's outgoing Sixth. It was incredible that already the triplets were leaving school, incredible that those three redheaded babies were now wonderful young women preparing to embark on the beginning of the rest of their lives....

In between talking to various staff members and pupils on the walk back, the Head found herself thinking again and again of Margot.

“Hilda!” a mildly irritated voice broke into her thoughts, and Miss Annersley roused herself and smiled at her great friend and co-head, who had the exasperated look of one who has been calling repeatedly and fruitlessly.

“Nell,” she greeted lightly. “I see you finally managed to join me.”

“You can blame Jack Lambert for that,” her friend told her, smiling broadly. “She and that Jocelyn child were arguing about some fixture or other for the car. I thought I'd better step in and squash them before it got out of hand, even if Jack is a relatively sensible fifth former these days.”

“She's a good girl,” Hilda Annersley agreed affectionately. “I'm tempted to make her a sub-prefect next year. With a few exceptions her work has pulled up so much that she really deserves to go into Va in September and it wouldn't be the first time we've chosen sub-prefects from amongst the fifth.”

“Especially when there's been a total clearout the previous year,” Nell Wilson concurred, “and I do believe that our budding engineer turns sixteen this summer in any case. Now tell me, why were you so abstracted I had to practically shake you to get your attention? New worry?”

Hilda only raised an eyebrow at her friend's exaggeration before saying, “No new worry. I was thinking of the triplets, and that I must make time to talk with them all before they leave us.”

“It's hard to believe they're grown up now, isn't it?”

“Just a little, but let's not pursue that line of thought, Nell! You can become maudlin later if you like. In the meantime, do you know if anything is worrying Margot Maynard?”

“Leaving school and starting a whole new life away from her family – and, more especially, her triplet sisters – doesn't count?” Nell Wilson returned with more than a tinge of her trademark sarcasm.

Miss Annersley ignored it. “I think it's more than that. And there she is now – might as well get it straight from the horse's mouth, as Joey would say. Margot!”

Margot, who had just walked past in silent company with the still-dreamy Con, turned. “Yes, Miss Annersley?”

The Head gave her a reassuring smile. “Will you leave Con for a moment, my dear? I'd like to speak to you.”

“I think it would be safe enough,” Miss Wilson added solemnly, but with a twinkle in her grey eyes. “This far back it's highly unlikely that even Con could walk over the edge.”

The sad look that Miss Annersley had noted earlier on Margot's face dissipated, and the girl grinned, even while Hilda herself simply rolled her eyes at her friend's comment. “I have a better idea,” she said sweetly. “Nell, go and join Con and keep her on the straight and narrow while I have a word with our third triplet, there's a dear.” A gentle push sent her co-head on her way, and the Head turned back to her new companion.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ 29 Apr 2008, 03:28 ]
Post subject: 
A lovely (and lively) lead up to what will probably be one of the most vital interviews in Hilda Annersley's entire career. There were some great exchanges between Hilda and Nell there.

I'm sure that whatever Hilda has to say to Margot will provide the girl with the encouragement to go ahead with her plans, and, even more importantly, to do so secure in the knowledge of Hilda's faith in her ability to succeed.

Thanks, Lisa T - I'll look forward to learning about that interview in due course.
Author:  Lesley [ 29 Apr 2008, 06:52 ]
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Oh that was lovely, so nice that the Head can be so relaxed with the Triplets - though poor Con will never get over being dreamy.


Thanks Lisa. :lol:
Author:  Liz K [ 29 Apr 2008, 11:29 ]
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Just read this through in one sitting, absolutely excellent.

Thanks Lisa.
Author:  Abi [ 29 Apr 2008, 14:30 ]
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I love the way Hilda thinks of the triplets - EBD so rarely gives us a personal view of Hilda.

This is lovely, thanks Lisa.
Author:  MaryR [ 29 Apr 2008, 15:08 ]
Post subject: 
So Nell insisted on some screen time and it's all Revenge's fault, is it, young lady? :lol: I'll set Hilda on you! :twisted:

That was lovely, and sums up the fact that Hilda and Nell are brevet-aunts to the triplets and so very comfortable with them. Still, Hilda must be crossing her fingers and saying her prayers that she gets this chat right. A Headmistress has a daunting responsibility towards her charges.

Thanks, Lisa.
Author:  abbeybufo [ 29 Apr 2008, 20:56 ]
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Lovely prelude to Hilda/Margot's talk, Lisa - Thanks :D
Author:  Lisa_T [ 29 Apr 2008, 23:14 ]
Post subject: 
Ooops. The serious-talk bunny didn't want to play, so both this post and the next are more relaxed. :oops: :oops: Hilda-fans should be happy, though...:wink:
“How are you, Margot?”

She was amused to see that Margot was eyeing her rather apprehensively. “I'm fine, Miss Annersley. How are you?”

Hilda's eyes danced a little at the formality, even though she'd instigated it herself. “Very well, thank you. How are you feeling about this being your last term at school?”

Margot grimaced. “I don't know. It's – odd.” The forget-me-not blue gaze dropped, and when she looked up again Hilda was surprised to see the wetness gleaming in the girl's eyes. “I'm happy and sad and excited and terrified – oh, Auntie Hilda, i don't know how I feel! I'm so confused.”

“What about the others? Do they feel as you do?”

“Len and Con, do you mean? Or all of us?”

“Both, I suppose, but primarily the three of you.”

The sadness returned and glimmered. “They're sad about leaving school, of course they are – but mainly, they're excited. But you see,” Margot continued, her eyes meeting her brevet-aunt's and then flickering away again, “it's easier for them. They know what happens next.”

“So do you. You're going to Edinburgh to read medicine, just as you wanted.” Privately Miss Annersley wondered, as had all the staff, at Margot's decision to follow in her father's footsteps, but then she remembered the events of several years before, and how heartbreakingly low the girl's self-esteem had been ... “Medicine is what you want to do, isn't it?” she asked, putting subtle emphasis on the 'you'.

Her brevet-neice looked surprised. “Oh yes. I'm certain of that.” Very quietly, she added, “If nothing else, I'm sure of that.”

The Head's brow wrinkled. “Margot, tell me, what are you doing this afternoon?”

Margot shrugged. “I was planning on doing some tennis coaching this afternoon, but I rather think it's going to be too hot for that? After that, I thought I'd help with putting together some of the stuff for the Sale.”

Miss Annersley hid a smile. How far she has come, she thought. “Yes; I think the coaching will definitely have to go,” she said firmly. “If it's cooler this evening before Abendessen, we'll see, but certainly not until then. In the meantime, would you like to join me for Kaffee in the salon at around fifteen?”

“Just me?” Margot asked, sounding surprised.

This time, the Head allowed her smile to show. “Just you. I will make time for Con another day, and I see plenty of Len as it is by virtue of her Head Girlship.”

Margot still looked startled at being singled out. “Okay. Er,” as she remembered that this was term time and she was a prefect, “sorry, Miss Annersley! Thanks very much for the invitation and I'd love to come.”

“I'm delighted to hear it. Very well, my dear, off you go – and please, I implore you, do try to refrain from using slang!”

Margot grinned, and Hilda was pleased to see that the familiar wicked twinkle was back in the very blue eyes. “'Okay' isn't slang, Auntie Hilda,” she said, with a hint of her old mischief, “and anyhow, you're always telling us that you don't expect us to talk like Jane Austen young ladies.”

The Head laughed at this carrying war into the enemies' camp. “Sometimes I despair! I'll grant you that most of you young people don't consider it slang, but I'm afraid I do. So if you must use it, spare my ears and my sensibilities and use it elsewhere – so off you go, shoo!”

Margot's only answer was to laugh in reply as she departed to join her friends for the remainder of the walk back, while the Head found herself drifting into chat with little Jeanne de Lachennais who had come up alongside her. Margot, she thought, would keep until later.
Author:  roversgirl [ 30 Apr 2008, 05:41 ]
Post subject: 
Lovely two updates - Thank you :)
Author:  jilianb [ 30 Apr 2008, 06:03 ]
Post subject: 
This is soo good. Thank you
Author:  Lesley [ 30 Apr 2008, 06:36 ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Lisa.
Author:  abbeybufo [ 30 Apr 2008, 16:53 ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Lisa that was lovely
Author:  Lisa_T [ 01 May 2008, 20:17 ]
Post subject: 
What do people think of Margot's characterisation here/so far? Is she ageing believably, but still recognisably herself?

And next bit:

Later that afternoon found Miss Annersley in her own private salon, arranging her pretty tea set on a low table in expectation of her visitor. When Margot did appear, it was with a light tap on the big French window, and her brevet-aunt shook her head as she crossed the room to pull the pane back and allow the girl entry.

“What's wrong with the door?” she asked with a twinkle as Margot grinned, sat down on the armchair next to the window, and then proceeded to take off one of her shoes.

“I was going to do the proper thing and be polite,” she explained as she poked about the interior of said shoe, “but then I managed to kick something into my shoe and I couldn't shake it out. It was uncomfortable and I didn't fancy hobbling round the other way. I didn't think you'd mind if I took a – er – short cut, because otherwise I'd have been late.” With a muffled sound of triumph, she extracted the small but sharp stone responsible for her difficulties, and quickly pocketed it for later disposal.

“I think that's what you call a social quandary,” the Head returned, much amused. “Enter through the window but be on time, or come through the door and be late!”

“And since punctuality is the politeness of princes, or so we're always being told in this establishment, I chose the former,” Margot added, somehow managing to keep a straight face.

Hilda Annersley laughed outright, and began to pour the drinks. “I'm glad to hear that your education has not been a complete waste, my dear! Now, I thought we'd have tea instead of Kaffee, since I know you don't usually get it during term time. Karen has sent up some of her special buns, so we're well provided for.”

“Yum,” said Margot appreciatively, causing her brevet-aunt to laugh again. “We're lucky, aren't we, Auntie Hilda? The boys are always complaining about the horrible food they get at their schools. We've never had that problem here.”

“English boarding school food is notoriously bad,” Miss Annersley agreed cheerfully after serving both Margot and herself. “Fortunately for us, your aunt elected to start the school on the Tiernsee. If she'd been inspired to begin it in Newbury, for example, we may have been less blessed in the culinary way.”

“Fishfingers for breakfast and rock hard roast potatoes,”* the girl suggested airily as she bit into her bun. “Yum. Sorry, Auntie Hilda, I know I'm being repetitive, but they really are!”

Hilda Annersley took a sip from her own cup and smiled, her blue-grey eyes twinkling at the teasing. “I'll let it go this time! Now, the reason I've called this little tete-a-tete is to talk with you further about the future. This is something I like to do with the outgoing members of the Sixth every year; it gives me a better idea of where you're going to end up, and hopefully gives you the opportunity to ask any questions that may be haunting you, so to speak.”

Some of the laughter fled from Margot's eyes. “And you thought questions might be haunting me, after this morning.”

“Precisely. So, Margot, is there anything you would like to tell me?” The Head's voice was very gentle as she spoke.

Margot's slender fingers traced the gentle curves and fluid lines of Miss Annersley's Belleek tea cup, and there was a long moment of silence before she looked up again. “Last year, after the incident with Betty, you sent me to Auntie Grace, remember?”

*Actually, the fishfingers for breakfast were delicious. Honestly. I'm not kidding about the roast spuds, though...*shudders*
Author:  Lesley [ 01 May 2008, 20:25 ]
Post subject: 
Lovely relationship between Margot and Hilda - not seen so much as EBD seemed to concentrate more on the relationship between the Head and Len.


Thanks Lisa.
Author:  abbeybufo [ 01 May 2008, 20:44 ]
Post subject: 
Thank you Lisa

I like the relationship showing between Hilda and Margot - and yes, I think the older Margot as Mother-Abbess is still the same recognisable character :D
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ 01 May 2008, 22:41 ]
Post subject: 
Echoing Lesley and Abbeybufo on both counts, Lisa - I am really enjoying this, and look forward to the rest of this interview.
Author:  MaryR [ 02 May 2008, 21:19 ]
Post subject: 
Oh, I loved Hilda's *social quandary* line. :lol:

Fascinating conversation - as will the rest be, I'm sure.

Thanks, Lisa. :D
Author:  Catherine [ 03 May 2008, 12:59 ]
Post subject: 
Thank you, Lisa. I do so like your scenes between Hilda and the triplets ... be it all or one of them!

Margot is very much herself ... struggling to reconcile her past and current self with the person she thinks she will need to be in the future.

Looking forward to your next update ...
Author:  PaulineS [ 03 May 2008, 18:44 ]
Post subject: 
Lisa I can see this may be tough to write bit the characterisation and relationships are good and well within possiblity.
Looking forward with the others to more.
Author:  Kathy_S [ 04 May 2008, 03:42 ]
Post subject: 
Thank you, Lisa.

Yes, this Margot is very much as I like to imagine her. :D
Author:  Celia [ 05 May 2008, 21:14 ]
Post subject: 
I love the easy camaraderie between Hilda and Margot here, such a good way to lead up to the serious point of their meeting.

Thanks Lisa
Author:  Lisa_T [ 06 May 2008, 00:50 ]
Post subject: 
Eeek! I'm glad you're enjoying, but the high expectations are freaking me out slightly. Anyway, here's the rest of what I've got. I love writing Hilda, so I could just let this go on and on ..... but I'm also tempted to let this post be the natural end of this section. What do you all think? Although there's some tightening that could be done, I think.

*

Miss Annersley’s mind flew back to the events of that morning, and she shuddered inwardly at how close she had come to expelling one of Joey Maynard’s daughters. If the girl had been less penitent, less horrified … Sending Margot to speak to her godmother had been a sudden inspiration. Sometimes, as Hilda Annersley remembered from her own girlhood, speaking to someone who was close, but not too close, could be invaluable. And so it had proved. The Margot who had returned from that talk with Grace Nalder was not the beaten and despairing girl who had left Hilda’s salon an hour or so before. She had often wondered what had happened during that conversation between godmother and goddaughter, but had never asked.

Now she simply inclined her head and refilled Margot’s cup in an attempt to distract her from fiddling with the fragile cup.

“Did Auntie Grace ever tell you what we talked about?” the girl asked.

“Of course not,” the Head responded promptly as she replaced the teapot on the table. “That was a confidential conversation between yourself and your godmother, Margot.”

To Hilda’s surprise, Margot looked disappointed. “I wish she had. This would be much easier.”

Miss Annersley decided to try a different tack. “May I ask what made you decide to pursue medicine?”

A rueful giggle. “That surprised everyone, didn’t it? No-one thought I’d be the one who would want to help others, did they, after all the trouble I’ve caused.”

“There’s no reason why you should be penalised – or penalise yourself – for having a temper,” the Head said firmly. “The important thing is that you keep it under control.”

Margot’s lips twitched. “Control. That’s become my magic word, hasn’t it, Auntie Hilda? First I had to learn to control myself, to discipline myself, to work hard and steadily. And then I had to learn to control my devil – my temper, that is – as well.” This time the glance Miss Annersley received from Margot was unwontedly shy. “I – I hope you think I’ve done better, this past year.”

“Immeasurably. As I told you at the start of the year, you’ve come on in leaps and bounds over the past months and years.”

“Not before time, either,” Margot said, her voice edged with bitterness that the Head chose to ignore.

“Learning self control will help you in the future, dear. I’m sure your father has told you that patients can be very annoying people!”

Margot relaxed and laughed aloud. “Yes, I’ve heard him contemplating violence a time or two.” A pause. “I know he has a temper too, you see. No-one’s ever said, but I think that’s where I get it from. He’s had to learn to control his temper as well.”

“Undoubtedly. Here, have another bun. Karen is always most offended if I send the plate back ornamented by anything other than crumbs.”

“Thanks.” Margot munched her sweet for a moment. “You know,” nervously, “I don’t want to be controlled just because I want to be a doctor.”

Miss Annersley sipped her tea and smiled as warmly as she could. Margot evidently took some courage and reassurance from that smile, for she inhaled deeply and then continued.

“These past few years, especially, I’ve wanted to do as well as I could in everything,” she said, sounding both anxious and shy to her brevet-aunt’s ears. “In everything, Auntie Hilda – languages, sewing, art, singing… Becoming a better person. Learning to control myself. Because I’ll need it all, and not just as – D.V. – a doctor.”

“What, then?”

Margot bit her lip and then spoke with quiet intensity. “After I’ve got my MB, I want to join the Blue Nuns. I – I’m hoping that I’ll then be able to specialise in tropical medicine and work with people in the countries who need it most….”

Hilda found herself blinking back unexpected tears at the sudden radiance in the youngest triplet’s face. “If that’s really what you want, Margot, if that’s what you feel called to do – then you’ll achieve it. I’m certain of it.”
Author:  Lesley [ 06 May 2008, 04:59 ]
Post subject: 
Well done Hilda - Margot must have been very reassured at that instant response.

Thanks Lisa.
Author:  roversgirl [ 06 May 2008, 05:28 ]
Post subject: 
How lovely - thanks :)
Author:  Catherine [ 06 May 2008, 12:15 ]
Post subject: 
Thank you, Lisa.

Please write some more of Hilda and Margot ... their relationship is never really explored in the books.
Author:  MaryR [ 06 May 2008, 13:31 ]
Post subject: 
Like writing about Hilda? :lol: Join the club, my dear! When do I ever stop? :roll:

This is wonderful, but that must have been a bit of a shock for Hilda, even knowing Margot as she does.

Loved the comment about sending the plate back only with crumbs ornamenting it. :lol:

Thanks, Lisa.
Author:  KatS [ 06 May 2008, 14:48 ]
Post subject: 
Quote:
Because I’ll need it all, and not just as – D.V. – a doctor.”


Feeling very ignorant - what does D.V. mean?

I absolutely adore this story - you have such a lovely Margot. I feel as though this is the girl she could have/should have been.
Author:  MaryR [ 06 May 2008, 16:04 ]
Post subject: 
KatS wrote:
Quote:
Because I’ll need it all, and not just as – D.V. – a doctor.”


Feeling very ignorant - what does D.V. mean? .

Deo volente, Kat - God willing. :wink:
Author:  PaulineS [ 06 May 2008, 18:51 ]
Post subject: 
Thank you. I am not sure Hilda or Margot will let you stop, but does seem it is a good place to complete this part.
Author:  Kathy_S [ 07 May 2008, 01:49 ]
Post subject: 
Thank you, Lisa.
The last paragraph was especially telling.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 07 May 2008, 13:54 ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Lisa. I'm reall enjoying all this
Author:  Lisa_T [ 19 May 2008, 03:03 ]
Post subject: 
Update. 'Nother in-between bit...

*
Reverend Mother sat next to her prioress during the evening meal, and once again mentally cursed the powers that be who had ordained that it was unnecessary to have two convents in this part of the country, especially when entrance numbers were dropping. Thus the school that Mere Amalie had once ruled with the proverbial rod of iron had been moved into the much larger convent that was attached to the hospital. Now the school that was run under Amalie’s direction was primarily for the families of long term patients in the hospital, a fact that gave Reverend Mother no little amusement when she wasn’t fighting the urge to strangle the other woman. Amalie, Mary Margaret knew, resented having to be under obedience to her, partly because she was the latter’s junior by some years, but also because the post Mary Margaret now filled was one that was traditionally held by a Frenchwoman.

With an ease born of constant practise, Mary Margaret tuned out the sound of Amalie’s perpetual complaints and reports – she knew she would receive them in writing, for Amalie was a great believer in bureaucracy – and watched the younger nuns with the interns at the bottom of the table. During Mary Margaret’s own time as a young nun, silence had been the usual rule at table, but this house traditionally encouraged laughter and talk at refectory, with the proviso that everyone should feel included. This was harder than it sounded, Reverend Mother knew, but she was happy to observe that Marie’s soft voice and musical laughter blended with the rest.

“-and next week we lose Celine and Josefa and Lizette,” Mary Margaret heard Amalie say, and she roused herself.

“Lose them, Mother?”

Amalie sniffed. “But yes, ma Mere. We are nearing the end of the academic year, and Celine is sixteen and Josefa and Marie are eighteen. It is time for them to go into the world.” Amalie’s tone was disapproving, and Mary Margaret repressed a smile that she knew the older woman would not appreciate.

“But this is a good thing,” she said mildly. “They are not children; it is time for them to discover who they are and choose what path they will take. It is a time for celebration and not sorrow, Mere Amalie. Tell me, what have you planned for them?”

“Planned, Mere Marie-Marguerite?”

Mary Margaret forced the smile to remain on her face; she hated Amalie’s insistence on addressing her by the French version of her name. “Too many syllables!” she’d once complained in a letter to her sister Con. “Yes, Mother, planned. If you haven’t already organised a little party for them then we must do so. As I said, it is a time for celebration.”

Amalie sniffed again, and Mary Margaret tried not to sigh in frustration. All the same, she was determined in this. Leaving school was an important turning point in one’s life, and she wanted the three girls to cherish the memory of the event in the same way she did herself.
Author:  roversgirl [ 19 May 2008, 06:29 ]
Post subject: 
Thanks - definitely the right apporach form Margot :)
Author:  Lesley [ 19 May 2008, 06:57 ]
Post subject: 
Couldn't she just strangle her in the dead of night? :wink: What a terrible person to have running a school. Margot has definitely become more patient over the years!


Thanks Lisa.
Author:  MaryR [ 19 May 2008, 12:38 ]
Post subject: 
What a wonderful description of two very different characters - with a spot of jealousy thrown into the mix! :lol:

Margot has gained so much from her vocation.

Thanks, Lisa.
Author:  PaulineS [ 19 May 2008, 13:39 ]
Post subject: 
Now why do I feel more sorry for Sister Amalie, than Mother Mary Margot??

I am sure the end of school party will reflect Mother's love of life rather than the Prioress's limited view of the world.
Author:  Catherine [ 19 May 2008, 14:48 ]
Post subject: 
Thank you for updating, Lisa.

Margot has grown much more perceptive and self-controlled.
Author:  Celia [ 19 May 2008, 19:36 ]
Post subject: 
Margot's vocation has matured her in many ways, but I guess she can
be very stubborn still in getting what she feels is right and necessary.
We shall see :)

Thank you for the update Lisa
Author:  Abi [ 20 May 2008, 15:01 ]
Post subject: 
Thank you Lisa! Am so much enjoying seeing the adult, mature, sensitive Margot.
Author:  abbeybufo [ 20 May 2008, 20:52 ]
Post subject: 
Thanks for a great post, Lisa. That gave a lovely new insight into Margot's character, and the crosses she has to bear.
Author:  Kathy_S [ 21 May 2008, 05:08 ]
Post subject: 
Thank you, Lisa.

Nice that Margot can find Amelie amusing now and then. What a person to work with.:evil: Good thing the students have Mere MM on their side! *wonders what they call her -- and how Amelie would react if she heard it*
Author:  Lisa_T [ 27 May 2008, 22:53 ]
Post subject: 
Next bit. I'm guessing there's only two more scenes to go!

**
Con Maynard stood with her triplet sisters and watched as Miss Annersley and Miss Wilson moved together to close the big front doors. The school had just departed on their way home for the summer holidays, and now only the Maynards remained in the hall that was suddenly dark and quiet. Con, ever imaginative, shivered. There was something almost eerie about the sudden stillness which only moments ago had been so full of life…

She was roused by the sound of Len heaving a sigh that hitched on unshed tears, and quickly placed an arm around the other girl’s shoulders.

“So that’s the end of our school days,” Len said, sounding folorn.

Con squeezed the shoulder she still held, and felt her sister lean in towards her. Of course, it would be Len who would grieve the most for the loss of school. Len who had seemed, from babyhood on, to be the perfect Chalet School girl. Con herself had enjoyed her school days, but she knew she’d always kept something back. Now she was glad of it, seeing Len’s pain. And Margot…

Margot stood in oddly composed quiet, and her copper curls gleamed brightly from the sun that streamed in through one of the high windows. The forget-me-not blue eyes were downcast, and her hands were quietly folded.

Con frowned. Such stillness was most unlike the volatile third triplet, but then she remembered Margot’s confession a couple of weeks ago. Margot, beautiful, brilliant, vivacious Margot, wanted to be a nun. Con was pleased her sister finally had some idea of what she wanted to do with her life, but at the same time, the idea seemed almost incongruous.

When she thought of nuns, she thought of Auntie Rob, with her gentle ways and angelic beauty. Or of Luigia di Ferrara, who had been one of her mother’s contemporaries at school and who had become a Poor Clare before finally dying with the children she had tried to rescue in a Nazi concentration camp. But Margot was neither angelic nor heroic in her sister’s eyes, and so Con had been … puzzled.

But now, seeing this sudden stillness, Con wondered, with some embarrassment, if Margot was praying. Suddenly, the idea of Margot as a nun seemed less incredible. On the other hand, it hurt. Margot had always been alone, since Canada, and this choice meant that she would forever be alone, in one sense…

“Con,” someone said, the voice finally penetrating through the fogs, and Con blinked. She felt her face flame at the looks of knowing amusement on the four faces surrounding her.

“Dreaming again, Con?” Miss Annersley asked.

“Dreaming about getting out of here,” Margot told their brevet-aunt saucily and Con tried not to gape, her recent thoughts about Margot clashing with the reality and momentarily confusing her.

Miss Wilson – Auntie Nell – laughed. “That wouldn’t surprise me in the least,” she said. Then she became serious. “So, girls, this is it. When you walk out of school today, you leave forever as schoolgirls. How does it feel?”

Con put her head on one side, considering the question. “I don’t know. It’s not real yet.”

Len was wiping her eyes. “At the moment? Heartbreaking and terrifying. Oh, Auntie Nell, I don’t want to go! I’ve loved being here so much.”

Margot simply gave a strange little smile and said, “It’s a beginning.”

Con saw Miss Annersley return the smile. “It is indeed, and that’s how you should all be looking at it. You know that, Len. Come, you’re nearly nineteen – would you really want to stay a schoolgirl for much longer?”

Len looked faintly embarrassed. “I suppose not,” she admittedly grudgingly, “especially when I’ve just got unofficially engaged as well.”

Con couldn’t help grinning at the scarlet tinge on her older sister’s cheeks, and judging from the laughs coming from the aunts, she believed they shared her amusement.

Miss Annersley reached out and laid a hand on her soon to be ex-head girl’s shoulder. “Exactly. That’s growing up with a vengeance, isn’t it? Come along now, you three. It’s time you were running home. It’s not as if you won’t see anything of either the school or your Auntie Nell and I, after all. We’re all going to the Tiernsee together next week, so I’m sure you’ll be delighted to escape us by the end of the summer.”

Taking the hint, Con picked up the bag of books she’d discovered in the prefects’ room that morning. She’d left them there the previous evening just before the prefects had their own private end-of-school party (supplied, as was traditional, by Matron) and had forgotten to lift them again. She then rejoined her sisters at the door. Len had already gone on, but Margot was still talking to the Head, and as Con said a temporary farewell to Miss Wilson and came up behind her sister she overheard the end of their conversation.

“ –you know I told you what I hoped for,” Margot was saying. “If I get it, a lot of it will be due to you, Auntie Hilda. I just wanted to say ‘thank you’ for putting up with me, through all the years of being a brat, and then all those horrible rows - ”

“Oh my dear,” Con heard Miss Annersley begin, but Margot continued.

“I mean it. Even everything you said about the clock, back in Inter V – remember? – even that helped. Every time I look at the thing, the memory of your words then helps me carry on.”

Con was sure she saw Miss Annersley blink back tears, and frankly she wasn’t surprised. Or rather, she was startled to hear Margot, who rarely opened up emotionally to anyone, being so frank with their headmistress.

“Then it was all worth it,” she heard their brevet-aunt say firmly. “You have a dream, Margot, and a worthwhile one – go forth and grab it with both hands. I’ll be watching your journey with interest, just as I’ll be watching yours, Con, and Len’s. It’s been a pleasure to see all three of you grow up, and don’t forget, any of you, that Auntie Nell and I are always here if you need us.”

“Hear, hear,” Miss Wilson said from where she’d been standing by the window. “And while I hate to break up this touching little scene, Hilda, I’ve just seen Joey do a rather good impression of a drowning man from the garden. I have an idea she wants her daughters back.”

Con and Margot exchanged a glance and grinned. “We’d better go on, then,” Con said cheerfully as she hoisted the bag of books on her shoulder. “Come on, Meg!”

And with that they were off, out into the bright sunshine and the beginning of the rest of their lives.
Author:  MaryR [ 28 May 2008, 02:00 ]
Post subject: 
That was a ost beautul and touching post, Lisa, delineating so clearly the differences in the three girls and how they are all now ready to move on.

And Hilda, so suddenly faced with just how much she has done for Margot, a difficult child who has made good, finds just the right touch for all three of them.

Thank you, Lisa.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ 28 May 2008, 02:58 ]
Post subject: 
That was indeed a beautiful post, Lisa, and you caught each of the triplets so accurately as each in turn bade farewell to their school days. Margot's sincere appreciation of all that Hilda Annersley has done for her was particularly moving and so revealing of just how much she has learned - a good omen for if she does eventually follow what she feels to be her call and becomes a nun.

Thank you
Author:  Lesley [ 28 May 2008, 07:19 ]
Post subject: 
Awww, lovely - and I wonder just how many of the girls think to thank any of their teachers for all they have done - must be a special moment for Hilda too. Like that Con is looking forward to the next stage too - but can't someone comment that she is thinking not dreaming? :roll:



Thanks Lisa.
Author:  Catherine [ 28 May 2008, 09:50 ]
Post subject: 
That was lovely, Lisa - and IMO, an accurate reflection of how each of the three felt on their last day, thank you.
Author:  abbeybufo [ 28 May 2008, 14:20 ]
Post subject: 
Thank you Lisa - that was a really insightful post on the different reactions of the three :D
Author:  roversgirl [ 28 May 2008, 19:49 ]
Post subject: 
That was beautiful - thanks very much :)
Author:  Abi [ 29 May 2008, 15:25 ]
Post subject: 
That was lovely Lisa. Thank you.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 30 May 2008, 13:24 ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Lisa. Love the insight into the triplets last day and I agree with Lesley, can't people differentiate between dreaming and thinking. There is a difference between the two
Author:  Sandra [ 31 May 2008, 16:51 ]
Post subject: 
I've just read this from start to finish and it is excellent. I now want to hear about some of the other characters in the same way!! Con maybe or Verity or Vi - any chance of the bunny biting?
Author:  Lisa_T [ 04 Jun 2008, 00:38 ]
Post subject: 
LOL! I don't know. I'll have to think about that one. This story has been several years in the making, one way and another.

Hopefully another two or three posts should finish it!
Author:  mel-mel [ 04 Jul 2008, 10:25 ]
Post subject: 
Thank you for this; I'm loving it and looking forward to the rest
Author:  Cazo3788 [ 10 Sep 2008, 15:43 ]
Post subject: 
Recently found this - and love it! Hope to see some more soon...
Author:  Lisa_T [ 03 Oct 2008, 00:20 ]
Post subject: 
Thank you. I half think that this story could finish there... although I also think it perhaps needs a couple of more posts! Grrr. Decisions, decisions.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ 03 Oct 2008, 10:36 ]
Post subject: 
Would love some more, pretty please
Author:  Abi [ 04 Oct 2008, 12:06 ]
Post subject: 
Would love to see the couple more posts, Lisa. :)
Author:  JellySheep [ 03 Mar 2009, 17:25 ]
Post subject:  Re: Love and Obedience
Is this to be continued at some point? I hope so, because I've just read the lot and am hooked - I think it's great, very thoughtful.
Author:  Lisa_T [ 09 May 2009, 02:48 ]
Post subject:  Re: Love and Obedience (complete -- no update!)
Just a line to confirm the revised title - this story is complete as it stands and can now be archived.

I may do a follow-up - I love writing Hilda/triplet interactions and I may do the final scenes I was envisaging for this as a separate story at some point. I rather want to see Hilda and Nell go back to the Tiernsee with Joey & Co. in tow.
Author:  Pat [ 09 May 2009, 19:30 ]
Post subject:  Re: Love and Obedience (complete -- no update!)
Welcome back to the board, stranger!
Author:  Kathy_S [ 10 May 2009, 01:47 ]
Post subject:  Re: Love and Obedience (complete -- no update!)
What do you mean, complete, with Amelie still unsquashed?? (Not that the triplets' last day at school wasn't a good ending for that bit.)

Welcome back, though!
Author:  Lisa_T [ 11 May 2009, 12:52 ]
Post subject:  Re: Love and Obedience (complete -- no update!)
LOL! Maybe I should do a spinoff called "The Squashing of Amalie" just for you, Kathy!
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