You certainly know how to get people's attention with the first post of a drabble, Phil! 
| The CBB http://www.the-cbb.co.uk/ | |
| Not really triplets at all... finished 17th Dec 07 http://www.the-cbb.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=12&t=3222 |
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| Author: | Phil [ Sun Aug 19, 2007 11:58 am ] |
| Post subject: | Not really triplets at all... finished 17th Dec 07 |
Freuedesheim was as loud, wild and active as ever. Although the noise had diminished slightly with the departure of the Richardsons yesterday, the "Happy Home" was still very loud, very active and very busy. The doorbell clanged and there was silence. No visitors were expected! If it were one of the brevet Aunts, they simply walked in! There was a scrabble of activity. "I'll get the door, Mama!" "No, I'LL get it!" "I'll get it!" "I am the eldest I will get it!" "Len and Con are older than you Margot, don't lie, you're not the eldest!" "We're triplets so there!" Margot bounded down the stairs with all the grace of a white rhinoceros. Breathless, she reached the door, wrenched it open with a smile and a feeling of smug satisfaction and got the shock of her life. Standing before her with fiery red hair (as red as Sybil or Maeve, thought Margot) was a girl who was the image of her and the same age too. The girl eyed her for a few moments then walked past the astonished Margot into the house. The girl turned. "You must be one of my other quads. Where are the other two?" "Margot, my love, who is it?" Joey's golden voice wafted down the corridor and the lady of the house came face to face with a flame haired version of her triplet daughters! |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Sun Aug 19, 2007 12:13 pm ] |
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| You certainly know how to get people's attention with the first post of a drabble, Phil!
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sun Aug 19, 2007 12:20 pm ] |
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Oooohhh! Now what happened to make Joey think she had triplets? Or has she been deceiving us all this time? |
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| Author: | Jennie [ Sun Aug 19, 2007 2:22 pm ] |
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Lovely, Phil, a real attention-grabber. |
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| Author: | Liz K [ Sun Aug 19, 2007 3:13 pm ] |
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*faints* What's happening here?? |
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| Author: | PaulineS [ Sun Aug 19, 2007 6:09 pm ] |
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An unexpected openning and a Cliff in the first post! 
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| Author: | Liane [ Sun Aug 19, 2007 7:06 pm ] |
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Thanks Phill *ponders, dose induced early onset?* |
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| Author: | Pado [ Mon Aug 20, 2007 3:48 am ] |
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great opening |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Mon Aug 20, 2007 8:01 am ] |
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Pado wrote: :shock:
great opening I'll say. Can't wait for an update |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Mon Aug 20, 2007 5:24 pm ] |
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What a cliff! |
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| Author: | Rosalin [ Mon Aug 20, 2007 9:15 pm ] |
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Well Joey kept that one very quiet
And I thought she couldn't keep a secret. Unless she didn't know. Thanks Phil |
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| Author: | linda [ Mon Aug 20, 2007 11:50 pm ] |
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And where has she been all of their lives???? 
What a start to a story!!! Thanks, Phil |
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| Author: | Phil [ Tue Aug 21, 2007 1:27 pm ] |
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"Great Caeser's bathmat! Who on Earth are you my child?" Joey gasped when she had found her breath. The flame haired young lady seemed to have a great deal of trouble containing her emotions. "Isn't it obvious mother? I have come home!" "But you don't live here!" "But I am your daughter!" "You can't be!" "I am your daughter!" The young lady was quite hysterical now. Meanwhile Margot had been boiling with rage. "How dare you come in here and upset my mother! You're an impostor! Who are you? Answer!" "That's a fine welcome from my sister! My name is Mary Theresa Cartwright, but I was born Mary Theresa Maynard according to my birth certificate. I was born in Guernsey on 5th November, 1939. My mother was Josephine Mary Maynard and my father a Dr John Maynard. I have all the papers here!" "Margot, go into my writing room and telephone your father. Tell him he must come over here at once." Joey had a grim and determined look about her. "I think Mary..." "I prefer Theresa" "Very well, Theresa, you had better come with me. We need to have a talk. Margot! I want you to phone Papa now!" And with a look to command Margot to summon father, Joey swept Theresa to the Speisesaal. Margot slunk away to her mother's writing room. She would show that impostor who's who! She met Len and Con on the way. Both were clutching the latest additions to the family. "Margot who was at the door and what was that scream?" "What's wrong Margot? You look awfully put out!" "I'll say I'm put out! Some impostor has turned up and claims she is our sister! Mum says I'm to call Dad at the San and get him to come over." "What do you mean an impostor?" asked Con. Margot thought for a minute. "Well....I suppose she does look like us, about the same age and her hair is as red as Sybil's or Maeve's." Agog with curioisity, Len and Con sped to the Speisesaal to see if they could offer the unexpected guest and Mama some refreshment. "No Len! Con! Wait! I don't think Mama wants to be disturbed! Oh! I shall have to go and call Dad!" Jack Maynard was not pleased at being interrupted in the middle of a ward round. He had only just escaped the formidable Mrs Gray and as a result the rest of the ward round would be rushed at best. He hated missing out on ward rounds. They were an essential part of patient care and keeping staff morale high. To see the great doctor condescending to come out of his office and bother to talk to patients, nurses, visitors and menials was a popular move by Jack. "Don't worry Jack! It's probably just Joey burnt another cake again!" Joked Phil Graves who would continue the ward round. "I'll give her burnt cakes!" grumbled Jack. Jack yearned for Joey to learn how to bake cakes properly! Grabbing the receiver he barked somewhat irritably, "Yes Joey, what is it?" Margot nearly dropped the phone in fright at the irritation in her honoured parent's voice. "D...D...Dad...Papa..I...something's happened at home, Mama wants you to come over quickly." "Is anyone sick Margot? Anyone injured? Why not use an ambulance? I'm better off dealing with any injuries here! Do you want me to send an ambulance?" "Nobody's sick Dad." "Well if nobody's sick, what's the matter? I do hope this is not some silly prank!" Margot squirmed most uncomfortably. "It isn't Dad! Some girl with red hair has turned up and says she is your daughter! She says she is a sister of Len, Con and me! She's even got a birth certificate! Dad? Dad? Dad?" Jack had hung up. Margot hoped he was on his way. In the Speisesaal, still clutching Geoff and Phil, Len and Con burst in. "Mama, we wondered if you and your guest would like some..." "...refreshment." Len and Con nearly dropped Phil and Geoff in shock. "Thank you. I think we could all do with some strong coffee and some cake. Do you drink coffee Theresa?" "Yes, thank you. These must be my other sisters?" Joey nodded. She had barely spoken to Theresa before Len and Con had rushed in. Theresa examined the little ones and smiled as she played with Geoff's flame red hair. So like her own. "And a baby brother and baby sister too! So there are five in the family?" Len found her voice. "Eleven. There's Steve, he's twelve, Charles is eleven, Mike is eight, Felix and Felicity are six, Cecily is four and these two, Geoff and Phil are two year olds." "What about you?" asked Con bluntly. |
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| Author: | Liz K [ Tue Aug 21, 2007 2:00 pm ] |
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Coo, flip, what a turn up for the books!!!!!!!!!!
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| Author: | Fatima [ Tue Aug 21, 2007 3:12 pm ] |
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If she is a Maynard, how did she get away so successfully? |
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| Author: | Liz K [ Tue Aug 21, 2007 3:13 pm ] |
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How did she escape? |
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| Author: | Rosalin [ Tue Aug 21, 2007 3:55 pm ] |
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What possessed her to come back? Thanks Phil |
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| Author: | Jennie [ Tue Aug 21, 2007 4:44 pm ] |
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The poor girl must be desperate to want to live in that madhouse. |
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| Author: | Rob [ Tue Aug 21, 2007 5:36 pm ] |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Tue Aug 21, 2007 6:25 pm ] |
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Wonder if she's the oldest? That would put Len's nose out of joint! It's obvious both Jack and Joey know of her. Thanks Phil.
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| Author: | Jennie [ Tue Aug 21, 2007 7:43 pm ] |
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So what do people named Cartwright have to do with it? Two posts, two cliffs! |
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| Author: | linda [ Tue Aug 21, 2007 7:55 pm ] |
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What a turn up for the books. How could Mary Theresa have got lost along the way?? Thanks Phil |
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| Author: | Rebecca [ Tue Aug 21, 2007 8:16 pm ] |
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Crikey! I'm looking forward to seeing this explained! |
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| Author: | Phil [ Wed Aug 22, 2007 9:42 am ] |
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Margot quietly entered the Speisesaal to hear Con's question. Since calling for her father, she had been held up once by Anna asking her to help her move a table, twice by Cecily who needed the toilet and finally by Mike who wanted a game of football. She was so desperate to hear what this interloper had to say for herself that she lost patience with Mike, shoved him out the way and he promptly banged his head. Margot told him not to be a sissy and just go away, but Mike was all set on telling Papa how Margot had hurt him. Realising this would never do, Margot engaged upon an act of bribery by giving Mike some chocolate and her profuse apologies. Now at last, she could rejoin her sisters. Margot entered the solemn gathering. "Dad's on his way." Joey nodded. Theresa took a deep breath. "For the last fourteen years I believed I was the daughter of Richard and Mary Cartwright. Mum was a nurse at the cottage hospital in Guernsey where I was born and Dad was killed at Dunkerque. Mum couldn't have children so she took me from you Mrs Maynard." Joey nearly dropped her cup of coffee in horror. "You don't remember nurse Cartwright do you? She had red hair like me." Joey thought back to the time her triplets were born. She did remember a red haired nurse who left quickly and in mysterious circumstances, but seeing as how she had just given birth, she didn't quite have the energy to butt in and sort this young nurse's problems out. Where was Jack? What was Jack doing at the time? She knew he wasn't present at the birth. Men! "Is your mother still alive?" asked Joey tentatively. Theresa had tears in her eyes. "She was killed in a motor accident a year ago. For the past year I have had a so called guardian who didn't really want me. The only time she ever took any interest in me was to trace my natural parents so she could palm me off onto you." The girl spoke with intense bitterness. She continued. "We went to all sorts of places, Somerset House for my birth certificate, the Medical Register to see where Dr Maynard was based. The trail went from Guernsey to Wales to Canada to Wales and the Gornetz Platz. Fortunately I had these to read on the way. My constant companions since childhood." Out of her bag she pulled several copies of Josephine M Bettany's books. With tears in her eyes, Joey leaned forward. "These are your mother's books! I wrote these! I am Josephine M Bettany - my maiden name! Do you like them?" "Oh I love them, but I haven't got all of them and I do so hate missing a title in the series." "I have spare copies! You've only to ask my love!" This tender moment was somewhat spoiled when Con jumped in, "Oh yes! Mama has MILLIONS of UNSOLD copies!" Joey gave her daughter a look to show her that this was not the best thing to say to a famous authoress whether or not she was your mother. Con slunk onto a sofa, dearly wishing the ground would swallow her up. Joey pondered for a moment and felt it more appropriate to stay the interrogation until Jack returned. "Why don't you come to my writing room and see what books I've got. We shall just wait until Jack comes in and then we can have a chat. Theresa looked slightly nervous. "Don't worry my lamb! We're not monsters! We just want to get this sorted out. Now come and have a glimpse at my latest novel!" So it was that Joey, Theresa and her apparent quad sisters decamped to Joey's writing room. Margot fidgeted as she awaited the familiar sound of her father's car in the driveway. She had not long to wait. Bruno was barking, the car was in the drive and there was the sound of size 12s crunching on the gravel. The Lord and Master was home. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Wed Aug 22, 2007 11:36 am ] |
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But wouldn't someone have noticed that four babies were born and only three were living with Jo from then on? *eagerly awaiting more* |
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| Author: | Sal [ Wed Aug 22, 2007 1:17 pm ] |
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At least we know why she came back now, she didn't have any choice! Thanks Phil |
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| Author: | Jennie [ Wed Aug 22, 2007 1:19 pm ] |
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Er, what about Peter Chester? He was there, he might have noticed something. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Wed Aug 22, 2007 4:36 pm ] |
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If she was the eldest and therefore born first then the nurse might have managed it. Pater Chester might have appeared as Joey was giving birth to the second (Len) with Mrs Cartwright disappearing with the first unknown! Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Wed Aug 22, 2007 4:59 pm ] |
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Thanks, Phil. |
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| Author: | keren [ Wed Aug 22, 2007 6:01 pm ] |
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Lesley wrote: If
she was the eldest and therefore born first then the nurse might have
managed it. Pater Chester might have appeared as Joey was giving birth
to the second (Len) with Mrs Cartwright disappearing with the first
unknown!
Thanks Phil. They expected twins and got 3 (no way would they have expected 4) |
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| Author: | Phil [ Wed Aug 22, 2007 6:08 pm ] |
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Bruno pestered Jack for a walk as soon as he was through the door. Delegating Bruno to Steven was easy. Jack's next task was not going to be so easy. Theresa looked like a startled rabbit as this fair haired giant of a man strode into Joey's writing room. He stopped dead at the sight of her. "Jack, this is Theresa." said Joey quietly. There was an awkward silence. "She's an impostor, Dad!" Margot blurted out. "I AM NOT" screamed Theresa. "How do you account for the fact she is the spitting image of you and your sisters?" Joey asked Margot in a quiet but firm voice. "Come along to the Speisesaal Theresa, we can have a talk about this." Ever the gentleman, Jack smiled and guided Theresa to the Speisesaal. On the way they met Felix and Felicity, both of whom had been engaged in some nefarious purpose and looked sheepish as they avoided Papa. Both twins did a double take. "Len's dyed her hair!" "Matey will be cross" "That's Len, over there! And Con and Margot!" "Then who was that?" The twins scampered away to inform the other family members. In the Speisesaal, Jack had his questions ready. "Do you know anything about the time you were born?" "Mum kept a diary. I have it here" Theresa read out from a small blue leather journal. "There are some pages in the beginning which have been torn out. The last few sentences of the missing entry have always puzzled me... '...and lost my job!' How did Mum lose her job? What had she done? What was wrong?" "Just tell me about the birth" said Jack. Theresa continued. 'Mrs M. was sedated as she went into labour. Dr Chester was called for. Mrs M.'s first baby appeared at 10am! I could not believe it! I had delivered a baby! That would show them how competent I was! I knew Dr Chester was delayed by a road accident. Oh what wonderful good fortune! My own little girl! I hid her. Mrs M.'s labour was not over yet, she would be having twins or something. When that other nurse (dreadful woman) arrived she assumed I had started to try to deliver the babies myself (I had) but had been unsuccessful, so she dismissed me. I took my bundle of joy away and left Guernsey for good a week later! I never saw Dr Chester arrive.' "Ten o'clock! Ten o'clock! Ten o'clock" Len was dancing with rage. "Then I am not the eldest!" Theresa stared at her sister, bewildered. Con and Margot knew what the significance of ten o'clock meant. Len was born at 11 o'clock, Con at half past eleven and Margot at midday. Jack and Joey stared at Len. There were far more important matters to discuss. "Helena! Stop making an exhibition of yourself! Go to the nursery at once! Con and Margot, go with her, we have a lot to discuss with Theresa and we musn't be interrupted." Len's face was black with fury and she stormed out, followed by Con and Margot. The horrid girl! Now she had got Mama and Papa on her side! Len sulked. She did not go straight to the nursery to look after the little ones. Instead she held a conference with her sisters in the garden adjoining the Chalet School. "Horrid, horrid, horrid girl!" she expostulated. "She must be an impostor!" soothed Margot. "She's probably forged all her documents and is trying to extort money from Mama and Papa!" This last proposition from Con formed an idea in Len's wicked thoughts. "Then it's up to us to prove that! We are Chalet School Girls! We can do this!" "What if she turns the boys and the tinies against us?" asked Con with a worried expression on her face. "Oh don't worry, Con! The boys always do anything I tell them to do!" Margot sounded confident. Len shook her head. "Margot, you know very well that any time you 'give orders' to the boys and treat them like servants, they laugh in your face!" Margot was crestfallen. "No, I have a better idea! We show the boys and the tinies what wonderful sisters we are and they don't need quads, they are quite happy with triplets!" Con thought of something. "We definitely do not need Mary Lou! Do we?" "No fear!" said Len. This was war. The thought of forged documents had occurred to Jack and Joey and they were quite open about this. "You realise Theresa, we shall have to check your story and these documents?" Theresa nodded. She realised that too. "I don't even mind you taking a blood test." "Well, we can't just put you up in a hotel, you may stay with us and you had better meet the rest of the family." When Len, Con and Margot stormed in, they heard raucous laughter. A shock! Nobody was in the Speisesaal. Another shock! "Where are they?" muttered Len. They ran to the nursery to find Theresa amusing the assembled tinies, Jack, Joey and the boys! Steve saw them first. "Hi! Glad you three could make it! Ma's always wanted quads, turns out she had them in the first place!" More laughter! Len's face was a picture! It got worse as Jack asked why Len wasn't in the nursery as previously requested by him. It looked like Len had been deliberatley disobedient; something Dr Maynard frowned upon. Steam was almost coming out of Len's ears and Margot and Con backed out of arm's length. Could they deal with this? Maybe it was time to call in Mary Lou after all... |
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| Author: | linda [ Wed Aug 22, 2007 7:30 pm ] |
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Oh dear, Len is not happy at the thought of no longer being the oldest. Thanks for two posts today - I'm looking forward to the next instalment. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Wed Aug 22, 2007 7:37 pm ] |
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It all sounds convincing enough, thanks Phil. More please! |
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| Author: | Jennie [ Wed Aug 22, 2007 8:02 pm ] |
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Thanks, Phil. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Wed Aug 22, 2007 8:13 pm ] |
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Yeah, I was right!
Poor Len, nose well and truly our of joint! Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | claire [ Wed Aug 22, 2007 8:30 pm ] |
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I like Steve's comment but didn't Joey notice having already had one and mention it? |
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| Author: | Rosalin [ Wed Aug 22, 2007 9:07 pm ] |
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| Poor Len. It must be serious if she's thinking of calling Mary-Lou in.
Thanks Phil |
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| Author: | wheelchairprincess [ Wed Aug 22, 2007 10:46 pm ] |
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Unexpected, unusual and... I can't think of another u word for what I was to say so gripping will have to do. I'm not so sure things are so bad they need to consider calling in OOAO tho. |
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| Author: | JackieP [ Wed Aug 22, 2007 11:03 pm ] |
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claire wrote: but didn't Joey notice having already had one and mention it?
Not if she'd been sedated - which is what it says.... More please! JackieP |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Thu Aug 23, 2007 8:12 am ] |
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Poor girls. It will be a hard adjustment for Len not being eldest. I'm kind of hoping Theresa will put Mary Lou back in her place the way the other three can't and I hope Jack and Joey are a little bit sympathetic (if they can manage it). Thanks Phil |
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| Author: | Rob [ Fri Aug 24, 2007 8:08 pm ] |
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How long I wonder before responsible Theresa has had her name shortened and is running round doing Mama's chores? Looking forward to more of this - thanks Phil! |
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| Author: | Phil [ Fri Aug 24, 2007 9:53 pm ] |
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Theresa awoke the next morning. There was a knock at the door and when bidden to enter, Anna did so. Anna was overjoyed at having another "Blumchen" and that the poor "Kinder" had been restored to Mrs Maynard after all these years. The faithful Maynard help told Theresa all about where things such as the bathroom were. Len had been ordered to show her new older sister around the night before, but had coldly refused. So had Margot. Con was on the verge of refusal, but the look in her father's eye told her discretion was the better part of valour and it was wiser to do as she was bid. The look Len gave her as she left made poor Con shudder. At least she would not be facing a tearful interview with Papa the following day! Theresa was ready for Fruhstuck and met a neatly groomed Steven on the way. For such a taciturn boy, he was unusually chatty. However, it wasn't every day you had a long lost sister turn up and he had got used to his triplet sisters. Steven adored Len, but sadly took her for granted and couldn't see how her feelings were being hurt. Every welcome Steve made to the new quad hurt Len deeply. If only he could realise this! Len had always been his favourite triplet: Margot was so argumentative and bossy and Con was frequently in a world of her own. Len was perfect and so apparently, was the new quad. Steven made up for lost time by paying attention to his new sister. A red eyed Len and a subdued Margot appeared at the breakfast table. Dr Maynard came later, a slightly grim expression on his normally kind face. The conversation revolved around Theresa and Len barely ate; until her father had his eye on her. "So, Theresa, where did you go to school?" "A high school in Exeter." "What made your mother choose the name Theresa?" "Apparently she spoke to you Mrs Maynard, sorry, Mama when you were having a check up at the doctor's. You seemed to think if the baby was a girl that Theresa would be a nice name as it was the English form of a friend of yours, a French woman I believe." "Oh my goodness! I remember! Yes my love, you are named after Therese Lepattre! The co Head and eventual Head of the Chalet School. She died just before war broke out. Poor Mademoiselle!" "Tell me more about the Chalet School please!" Joey laughed at the looks of despair on the faces of her long suffering boys who had heard every single detail of the history of the Chalet School whether they liked it or not. "There's rather a lot to tell! Perhaps after breakfast we shall make a start!" Jack agreed. "Yes, I'll get on to Jem and ask him to check out your documents, as we said last night, it's got to be done for everybody's peace of mind." Theresa smiled a Maynard smile at him. Len grimaced. Her grimace grew worse as Steve took his turn to collect the breakfast plates. Usually Steve would go in a strict order of Jack, Joey, then the triplets: Len then Con and finally Margot. Steve never failed in this routine, but on this occasion he collected Theresa's plate first! This unpardonable sin was too much for Len and as Steve came to collect Len's plate, she hit him over the head with her bowl and rushed out of the room in tears. Poor Len, trying to break Steve's head was the most satisfying thing she had done since the arrival of Theresa! She tore out of Freuedesheim, leapt over the gate and made straight for her last sanctuary and refuge, the Chalet School. She knew the school was deserted except for Gaudenz doing some maintenance work. She slipped past him and went to cry in her dormitory. For five minutes she gave vent to her emotions and was only stopped when a firm hand clasped her shoulder. In shock she turned round to see a stern looking Auntie Hilda! "Auntie Hilda!" "Helena! What are you doing in the school? You know very well it is out of bounds during the holidays." Tears rolled down Len's cheeks and she began to have hysterics. Needing to shock her out of her distress, the Headmistress's glare was switched on and so was the "naughty girl" tone of voice. "Helena! Stop this babyish behaviour at once! What is this nonsense? I wouldn't believe it was you if I were told of this! Now answer my question." Shocked to her senses, Len controlled herself. "Auntie Hilda! I'm so sorry I am in school, I had nowhere else to go. Something truly terrible has happened some girl has turned up and says she is my older sister and that Con, Margot and I are not triplets, but quads. She's got all these documents, and Papa is checking them with Uncle Jem and the worst of it is, she is taking everyone from me, especially Steven! He's been all over her and he has ignored me like I don't exist!" Hilda Annersley was speechless at this latest bombshell. "Quads! Quads instead of triplets! Your mother has done it again! She always has to surprise us!" "I wouldn't mind if only Steve would pay attention to me!" Miss Annersley cuddled Len close to her. "Come along Len, let me tell you a bit about men and boys. There are times when they seem utterly heartless, as Steve seems to you. But from his point of view. He can't actually see or understand how he is hurting you. He knows you love him and you know he loves you, so according to Steve, there's no need to say it. Girls and women like to hear it said, and it can be very upsetting when it isn't. Your new sister is novelty value for Steve, he doesn't understand girls' emotions and he does need to if he wants a wife some day." "He's being as thick as two short planks!" Miss Annersley looked shocked, but overlooked the slang. "Tactless, yes but he isn't thick! Look at those scholarships he has won and the common sense he has to display at school and with your brothers. What did you do to him?" "Hit him over the head, hard, with a china bowl." "Well, that might not have helped, oh here's your mother." Joey had rushed into the dormitory. "Hilda! Oh you've got Len! Darling what on Earth's the matter?" Not for the first time, Hilda raised her eyebrows and wondered about Joey. For a girl who successfully got "under the skin" of everyone at school and butted in left right and centre, sometimes she could be remarkably devoid of what was going on with her children, witness Margot and Ted Grantley at Zermatt, Miss Annersley thought ruefully. It was Hilda who saved Len the exhaustive process of explaining to Mama. "Oh angel! You're not jealous of your new sister are you?" Len nodded. The truth was out. "Well I shall talk to Steve about him being tactless and I..." "No Joey, take time to be with Len, put her to bed, she is deeply unhappy. I can talk to Steve if Jack is busy." Miss Annersley's quiet authority told Joey not to argue. As Joey cuddled the unhappy Len back to Freuedesheim, Hilda Annersley followed. Where was Mary Lou when you needed her? |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Fri Aug 24, 2007 10:30 pm ] |
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Well done Hilda - though please don't tell me that she wanted Mary Lou there!
Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Katherine [ Fri Aug 24, 2007 10:48 pm ] |
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Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear! |
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| Author: | linda [ Fri Aug 24, 2007 10:58 pm ] |
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Oh, what a difficult problem this is proving to be. How put out Len is now that she may not be the oldest. She has really had the wind taken out of her sails. Even Stephen has deserted her. What is going to happen next? Thanks for this Phil |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Sat Aug 25, 2007 4:26 am ] |
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I'm sure we don't need Mary-Lou - unless someone wants to hit her over the head with a bowl! Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Sat Aug 25, 2007 8:09 am ] |
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Lesley wrote: Well done Hilda - though please don't tell me that she wanted Mary Lou there!
Thanks Phil. Maybe she did so she didn't have to sort out yet another problem with the triplets especially as Joey seems so dense at time in regards to them. Thanks Phil |
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| Author: | Phil [ Sat Aug 25, 2007 11:07 am ] |
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The unhappy Helena was returned home. Theresa was in tears and Steven had his head bandaged. He gave his sister a reproachful look. Len could barely raise her eyes to meet her brother. Miss Annersley spoke to Theresa. "You must be the new Maynard, welcome to Freuedesheim. I am Miss Annersley, Headmistress of the Chalet School and brevet Aunt to the Bettany, Russell and Maynard clans!" She broke into a welcoming smile, which the relieved Theresa returned. "I must have a chat with Steven, come along." Hilda Annersley herded the young master to a nearby room. "You have been in the wars, haven't you?" Steve nodded. His head ached. "Len is as strong as an ox!" he groaned. "She told me what happened. Steven, listen to your Auntie Hilda. Please try and be aware of your sisters' feelings. Up until yesterday, Len was the eldest. She feels deserted by you, almost betrayed. It is hurting Len more than Con or Margot. Please be aware of this. Give her time to calm down and then go and talk to her. Reassure her. You can do it." Steve nodded. The message had hit home and he had already suffered plenty of criticism from Con and Margot. He retired to his room to rest his injury. Miss Annersley pleaded with Jack not to punish Len. Joey had put Len to bed and with Steven hors de combat also, had sent Con and Margot and Charles to look after the younger ones. Jack was on the phone to Jem. Joey introduced Miss Annersley to the very anxious Theresa. "Miss Annersley was one of my teachers at the Chalet School, founded by my sister." began Joey. Theresa was still worried about Len and Steve. "I shouldn't have come home, but there was nobody else; really, nobody at all. Len hates me now. She always will!" "My dear, just calm down. We can discuss this like sensible people can't we?" The firm gentle tones of the Headmistress were soothing enough for Theresa. |
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| Author: | PaulineS [ Sat Aug 25, 2007 11:54 am ] |
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What a pickle as my gran would have said. All those different emotions, and Jack angry as well. That breakfast would be tough.  
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| Author: | Fatima [ Sat Aug 25, 2007 12:09 pm ] |
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Poor Theresa; I wonder if she knew what she'd be getting into, finding her real family. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sat Aug 25, 2007 2:36 pm ] |
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Feel sorry for Theresa - she's probably wishing she'd never met her family! Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Liane [ Sat Aug 25, 2007 6:53 pm ] |
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Poor Theresa! What an atmosphere to walk in to. |
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| Author: | Phil [ Sun Aug 26, 2007 8:52 am ] |
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Within a short space of time, Hilda Annersely had ascertained that Theresa was a bright, happy and confident girl; the sort of girl who would flourish at the Chalet School. She had excellent school reports and was a clear "all rounder". Unfortunately, her confidence had taken a knock since her arrival at Freuedesheim and especially with Len's reaction to her. Joey had gone to telephone Madge. "Madge?" "Joey baba, how lovely to hear from you!" Joey relaxed. Madge sounded quite maternal. "Madge, do you remember when the triplets were born?" "Yes." "It seems I may have had quads after all." Silence. "Madge are you there?" Silence. "Madge?" "I don't understand Joey." "Yesterday, a girl named Theresa turned up at Freuedesheim complete with official documents claiming to be the quad sister of Len, Con and Margot." "I see." "Is that all you can say Madge?" "Madge, does Jem remember a Nurse Cartwright who may have been looking after me at the time? Apparently she took Theresa as she was the first to be born, she delivered her and took her. Madge, I have to speak to Jem!" "We are coming over Joey. Don't you worry. Jem and I are leaving now." Madge hung up leaving Joey puzzled; clearly Madge knew something! She returned to where Miss Annersley was talking to Theresa about the Chalet School. "Madge and Jem are coming out here as soon as possible." Theresa looked startled. "Who are Madge and Jem?" "My sister and brother in law. Madge founded the Chalet School." For the next couple of days, Jem did a painstaking research on the background of Theresa and her parents. Jem and Madge arrived in Switzerland by the end of the week. During that time there had been an uneasy truce with Len and Theresa keeping out of each other's way and Steve treating Len with unusual gentleness. Miss Annersley agreed to come to help smooth things over if there were any problems. Poor Theresa was a bundle of nerves on the day of her Uncle and Aunt's arrival. She envisaged them as giant, aged, unsmiling figures, products of a Victorian age. She wished her mother had been her real mother and that she wasn't part of this madhouse! Miss Annersley tried to calm the unfortunate girl. "Come along Theresa, you have nothing to fear! Madge Russell is a lovely person. You will like her, I promise." Theresa was ushered into the Speisesaal where Jem was puffing like a steam engine on his pipe; an activity which Jack was pursuing with vigour as well. Joey was showing a very attractive lady with wavy black hair and a fair complexion some documents. "Ah here she is!" Joey smiled. "Good grief! The image of her sisters and her mother!" This from Jem. The lady with wavy hair smiled. "Welcome to the family, I am your Auntie Madge." "You...you've checked my documents?" Theresa stuttered. "Your Uncle Jem has been very thorough." "There has been no mistake!" smiled Jack. Theresa was relieved, but what would Len think? Her main worry was her quad sister. That particular quad slunk into the room. She was still not too well disposed to her new sister. "That first night she came, she said she was born in a cottage hospital! We three were born at Les Rosiers! And why didn't she have the name Cartwright on her birth certificate? Isn't it illegal for two parents of the same name to put another surname on the child's birth certificate?" Theresa nearly fainted under Len's evil eye. "Len! Now look what you have done!" began Jack. "Len! Don't jump to conclusions! A lot can be explained by the actions of Nurse Cartwright immediately after she took the baby!" Everyone waited with bated breath for Jem to finish as he puffed on his pipe. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sun Aug 26, 2007 9:03 am ] |
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Hmmmm, Len is still not happy about Theresa supplanting her as the oldest, is she? And did Jem and Madge know more about it at the time? Thanks Phil.
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| Author: | Lyanne [ Sun Aug 26, 2007 11:02 am ] |
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Quote: "That
first night she came, she said she was born in a cottage hospital! We
three were born at Les Rosiers! And why didn't she have the name
Cartwright on her birth certificate? Isn't it illegal for two parents
of the same name to put another surname on the child's birth
certificate?" Whilst I did wonder about Les Rosiers also (Thanks Len for bringing that up!), UK regualtions on birth certificates allow you to put what you want as the child's full name. There's nothing to stop you naming your child 'Elvis Presley'. Unless you think it would be confusing for your child & that it would be better if it shared the parents surname... Quote: What information will the Registrar need about my baby?
The Registrar will need the date and place of your baby's birth. If you have twins or triplets then the time of each baby's birth will be needed as well. You will also be asked for the full name (forenames and surname) in which you intend the child to be brought up. (my emphasis) |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Sun Aug 26, 2007 1:45 pm ] |
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Len's not happy at all, is she? I hope she and Theresa can come to terms with each other. |
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| Author: | Jennie [ Sun Aug 26, 2007 2:18 pm ] |
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Is it still legal for the child's name to be amended if another name is added at the time of baptism? |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Sun Aug 26, 2007 3:11 pm ] |
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I'm also waiting with bated breath for Jem to finish! Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | linda [ Sun Aug 26, 2007 3:38 pm ] |
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I'd quite forgotten about Joey having the triplets at Les Rosiers! Can Jem throw any light on this at all? Poor Len is so distraught. It seems as though Theresa has taken what she has always seen as her rightful place as the oldest of the long family. Thanks Phil |
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| Author: | Phil [ Sun Aug 26, 2007 4:50 pm ] |
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Jem was about to explain all when he was interrupted by the flow of his remaining nephews and nieces of the Maynard clan. Con and Margot quickly moved over to Len. "There you are! We've been looking all over for you...Hello Uncle Jem, Auntie Madge!" Jem cleared his throat; he may as well break the news to the remainder of the family. "Well, all of you have a new sister. When Len, Con and Margot were born, Theresa here was actually born an hour earlier. She was delivered by a nurse who was to face criminal charges for stealing from patients. Although it now appears the perpretrator was the boyfriend of another nurse whom Nurse Cartwright had no love for. Nurse MacLean was a bully, but she did her job well. So did Nurse Cartwright, but it was easy given her sensitive nature and somewhat naive trusting of people to allow herself to be set up for some foolish clinical errors. I remember trying to investigate this at the time. I never found out who was responsible for such bad patient care, but I know it wasn't Nurse Cartwright. Nurse MacLean had an unpleasant tendency to gossip and her character assassination of Nurse Cartwright was sadly effective. The final straw came when Nurse MacLean's boyfriend planted stolen property in Nurse Cartwright's locker and when you, Jack on some leave from your regiment in France, accused her of a terrible blunder that left a child patient in pain." "Me? But what did I say?" "It was a little boy of three. Andy Church. You remember?" "Andy Church...Andy Church...Oh my goodness, he was given the wrong dose of medicine and I thought Nurse Cartwright..." "She was furious with you Jack. She idolised you and if you weren't married, she would certainly have made her feelings known to you." "Great Scott! I would never have dreamed!" "Don't blame yourself Jack. The woman was at the end of her tether. Nurse MacLean also found out about Nurse Cartwright's inability to have children. In the end the bullying and accusations were too much. She wanted your children Jack, she wanted to prove herself competent as a nurse and as a mother, and on the spur of the moment, the instinct to take Theresa and raise her as her own was too much. She registered the baby's birth but could not bear to put a falsehood on the certificate, so she named the correct parents at least. Her husband never knew of her deception. He was killed in action at Dunkerque and was posthumously awarded the DSO." Silence reigned. "Poor Mrs Cartwright." Joey had tears in her eyes. Even Len felt terrible. "How on Earth did that nasty Nurse MacLean find this out Uncle Jem?" "She had an unhealthy talent for blackmail, eavesdropping and bullying. Something I despise." Margot gave a cry and crashed to her knees. At once, Miss Annersley, Jack, Len and Con knew why. It was exactly the criminal behaviour Margot had exhibited not more than a year ago. All attention turned to Margot and she had the face of one whose guilty conscience was revealed. "I'm sorry...I'm so sorry...I'm sorry...Please forgive me...I'm sorry." Margot could only gasp apology after apology. "Margot, what is going on? What's wrong? What's the matter dear? Tell Mama!" Joey was anxious. "Please Joey, don't ask her! Don't ask!" Jack commanded. Joey would not let up. "Is this something to do with whatever it was that your father and Auntie Hilda still won't talk about?" Margot nodded. "Joey, now is not the time!" cautioned Miss Annersley. Sadly, Joey guessed. Margot could barely look her in the eye. She was ashamed of herself. "Margot! What have you been doing? Come on! Our sins find us out in the end!" "Jealous...Ted Grantley...eavesdropping on you and Auntie Rosalie about her expulsion...blackmailed her...bullied her...made her life a misery...Mary Lou caught me...red handed...Sorry! Please! I'm so sorry!" Listening to this amongst the family was young Mike Maynard. He was not an unintelligent boy, indeed he could race through his lessons and be throughly bored while the others caught up. He felt his disgrace deeply when he thought he had killed his mother by scrambling down that ravine. He also realised that had Margot's behaviour come to light earlier, Joey would have been just as ill, if not far worse. In a rage, and he did not care what happened to him, he strode forward. "How dare you be such a beast Margot! If Mama knew she would have been as sick as she was when I jumped down that ravine! And I got all the blame and everyone hated me because Mama was so ill! You don't know what it feels like to be punished like I was! I hate you! I shall never forgive you ever! And you hated me so much when I made Mama ill and really you were a horrid coward, bully and hypocrite all along! I never want to see you ever again!" He ran from the room, Charles in hot pursuit to calm him down. Margot shouted after Mike, "But I've changed Mike! I was punished! Why won't you believe me? Papa wouldn't speak to me for two whole weeks!" she sobbed. Jem walked up to Margot and stared at her, disgust in his eyes. In silence he left the room. Madge came forward. "Hilda, why didn't you let me know? Jack did you know of this? I could have helped! You should have let me help! Joey was in no position to deal with this after the birth of Phil and Geoff. I am disappointed I wasn't asked to help! I helped when Mike went down that ravine!" Theresa looked at her unhappy quad and strangely enough, put her arms around her. "So, you showed the same characteristics of a bully who drove my mother away from her job. I hate bullies, but I forgive you." Len and Con breathed an almighty sigh of relief as Margot wept upon her older sister. Theresa had it within her power to despise Margot for what she had been; but instead Theresa had forgiven her. Joey had been all set to inform Margot of her distress at her daughter's actions, but it was the forgiveness of Theresa which had saved a tense moment. "Well, you seem to have been a very silly and very nasty girl Margot. That this should take place in your Auntie Madge's school! I think you owe her an apology and then we shall close the matter!" "I'm sorry Auntie Madge! I'm a disgrace to the school and to the family." "You are forgiven Margot. I am sure your father and Auntie Hilda dealt with you faithfully." Margot shook at the memory. "Now we shall have no more of these tears. After all, you Len and Con must introduce your new sister to the Chalet School next term! Imagine the outcry that will cause!" Laughter broke the final tension. Con thought of something. "What about Mike and Uncle Jem? Charles looked angry too." "I shall have a chat with them." said Jack. "Dad, may I speak with them? I don't know if it might come better from me, but I would like to try." Theresa asked, and looked anxiously at Len for support. It seemed she had Len's support as that young lady nodded and smiled. "I've been really silly about being jealous." thought Len. "I might not like being the eldest any more, but Theresa's poor mother had a horrible time!" |
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| Author: | Rob [ Sun Aug 26, 2007 5:21 pm ] |
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Two updates ... thanks Phil!! I wonder how long Madge and Jem have known about Nurse Cartright and Nurse MacLean? |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Sun Aug 26, 2007 6:02 pm ] |
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I would like to give Jem a piece of my mind - the matter had been dealt with, and yet he thinks he has the right to dole out more of the silent treatment. 
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| Author: | PaulineS [ Sun Aug 26, 2007 9:52 pm ] |
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I am glad Len and Theresa are starting to make friends |
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| Author: | Jennie [ Mon Aug 27, 2007 3:13 pm ] |
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Thanks, Phil. I'm glad that Len has behaved like a normal girl at last. |
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| Author: | Phil [ Mon Aug 27, 2007 7:48 pm ] |
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Margot looked shocked at how much contempt, disgust, betrayal and hatred was in an eight year old boy as she passed Mike on the stairs on the way to bed. Charles simply shook his head and looked mortally stricken. Had she warped them for good through her own sickening actions? Len and Con took Margot to her little sanctuary, where Emerence's gift of a clock stared judgementally at her. Theresa followed but stopped to catch up with Mike and Charles. Mike had tears in his eyes as he went to his room with his brother and sister. He collapsed on his bed and sobbed. "Everyone hating me! I thought I had murdered Mama and I love her so much! Nobody spoke to me! I know I deserved it, but all the time, Margot was getting away with whatever she had done at the Chalet School. Anyone else would have been expelled! She didn't make Mama ill, but what she did would have hurt Mama! I hate Margot! She can go to the devil!" "Mike! Come on, don't use language like that!" "Don't care, Charles! I hate Margot!" Theresa sat next to Mike and cuddled him. She motioned to Charles to sit on her other side and she put an arm round him. "I can see how hurt you are. But do you think Mama would want you to be in such pain? Do you think she would want you to hate Margot? Besides, she is desperate for you to forgive her. Didn't you see the look she gave you both as you passed her on the stairs. She is so very sorry at what she did and it must be worse for her because Mama and the rest of you did not know until tonight what she had done. She has kept this in her for a very long time. At least when you did something wrong Mike, the punishment was over. Yes it took a long time, but from what I heard from Con, Margot had a cruel punishment too." "What happened?" hissed Mike through tears. As long as justice was done, he might forgive Margot. Auntie Hilda was going to expel Margot. The first words she said to Papa after he heard what Margot had done were, "Give me one good reason why I should not expel your daughter." Mike and Charles were shocked. "Papa talked about Mama being pregnant, then he said he couldn't actually give a good reason. Margot broke his heart and Margot knew. She thought Len and Con would never speak to her again, her best friend had gone back to Australia, she was so sick, she was in isolation for four days, which made her feel worse. Even when term broke, Papa would not speak to her for two full weeks. She kept pleading and begging him, she cried herself to sleep every night until she had sunk into despair. She had given up any hope of Papa ever loving her again. Then and only then did he speak to her. Please Mike, believe me! Margot was punished. Just because Mama did not find out until now and neither did you doesn't mean she didn't suffer. She did. Put yourself in her position. She is so very sorry." Charles seemed to weep silently for his troubled sister. "Margot!" Mike was speechless. "Margot." "I can't leave her like this, I can't!" Charles ran to his sister where a loud sob of relief was heard. Theresa cuddled Mike. "It sounds like both you and Margot have doen some very silly things. You have both had the most horrific punishments and you are both still suffering. Come to Margot, Mike. A problem shared is a problem halved!" Shaking, Mike went with Theresa to Margot's room. Charles held Margot's hand on one side of the bed where she lay like a stricken whale. Len and Con on the other side armed with handkerchiefs. Margot ran at Mike at the sight of him. He was no longer full of hatred. SHe cuddled him. "Oh Mike! I'm so sorry for what I did and I am sorry I took my anger out on you after you did what you did." "I deserved it." came a muffled reply. "I'll see to Uncle Jem." Theresa whispered to Len and Con. Theresa found her Uncle simmering in Jack's study. "Dreadful behaviour!" he gasped. "If it weren't for her mother's health, Jack should have removed her and sent her to a strict convent! Hello Theresa, my dear!" "Uncle Jem, Margot's sorry." "Ha!" "Please Uncle Jem!" "After all your mother went through! The poor girl had to start a whole new life! She couldn't tell you where you born, she just couldn't bring herself to do so! She said you were born in a cottage hospital, because if you found out about Les Rosiers, you could have easily traced the previous owners! That poor girl, having to enter a world of deception! Bullied by that MacLean thug! Exactly the behaviour Margot has exhibited! Poor Joey must be devastated." "Mother seems to be taking it well. It happened a while ago and Dad dealt with it! Please Uncle Jem I know Margot is sorry. She has wanted to explain to mother for some time, but she didn't want to make her ill." Jem paused. Perhaps he had been too hasty. "I'm sorry Theresa, I have fond memories of Nurse Cartwright, very fond memories. She helped care for my dying sister. She was originally stationed in the Sonnalpe with me for the last few months it was open. Then my sister died and was buried out there. As Madge was in Guernsey, I had nobody to talk to. I can't tell you how much I grieved for Margot, my sister. Your mother was the best comfort a man could have. I would have done anything to protect her. I never took advantage of her. I knew she was married. When I think of Nurse MacLean getting away with bullying, it makes my blood boil, and when I think Margot who was named after my dear sister has been up to such appalling crimes..." Jem broke off. "I remember when she disappeared. It was the same day I registered the birth of the triplets. The registrar was a lovely chap and kept insisting he had already registered a Maynard baby. I was puzzled, but still able to register your sisters. That old registrar was losing his marbles sadly. I speculated with Madge if Joey had quads and if she had mislaid one. It would be just like Joey. She has always gone on about wanting quads. Almost as if she knew she already had them." "Uncle Jem, Margot needs to know that you forgive her." "Yes of course! Don't worry. I won't make the same mistake I did with my daughter Sybil." Jem leapt up the stairs and promptly and tenderly forgave his niece. When normality returned, Theresa Maynard returned to where Joey, Jack, Jem, Madge and Miss Annersley were. "All cured, forgotten and forgiven!" she joked. Her smile was so like Joey's. "And we must see about enrolling you at the Chalet School, term starts next week!" was Joey's rejoinder. Theresa looked apprehensive, but excited. "Just think! Quads at the Chalet School!" |
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| Author: | Liz K [ Mon Aug 27, 2007 8:33 pm ] |
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Flippin' heck, my head's spinning after what's been happening, I'll have to go and have a lie-down!
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| Author: | Fatima [ Tue Aug 28, 2007 3:26 am ] |
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Theresa is very like her mother, sorting everything out and helping those who need it. I would love to see her at the CS - would she be HG instead of Len?! |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Tue Aug 28, 2007 11:16 am ] |
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Thanks Phil. This is great |
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| Author: | Jennie [ Tue Aug 28, 2007 12:36 pm ] |
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Thank you, Phil. I do find Mike's reaction to be realisitic, because what he suffered as a very young boy was all out of proportion to his offence. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Tue Aug 28, 2007 4:52 pm ] |
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thanks, Phil. This is fascinating. |
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| Author: | Phil [ Tue Aug 28, 2007 4:58 pm ] |
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Josette Russell frowned in the mirror. Her reflection frowned back at her with equal severity. She was Head Girl now. There would be trouble. That disgrace of a sister Ailie would no doubt dream something up; and when she did, she would wish she had never been born! Josette was terrified of accusations of favouritism and came down hard on her cousins and especially her sister. One unfortunate girl had tried to stand up to her and tell her not to be such a brute. A detention later and with tears rolling down her cheeks, the girl had apologised. This was mother's school and Auntie Joey was the first pupil. Josette had to ensure rules were obeyed to the letter. They were clearly printed in black and white in the school rule book. Josette finished scowling and strode into her sister's room. "Aline! You will behave yourself this term. I expect to see a better report and an improvement in your conduct. Slovenliness will not be tolerated." She strode out; Aline looked at her retreating back with tears in her eyes. She didn't like school anyway and Josette made it worse! She was a dictator. A ray of hope appeared. The front door opened to admit a tired Jem and Madge. The twins ran to greet them first. David and Sybil were at friends' houses; Josette walked down the stairs with calm and dignity. "Kevin and Kester! Don't knock mother and father over!" "Oh Josette, really! Mummy is pleased to see her baby imps, aren't I darlings?" Josette took her parents' coats. "Aline! Aline! Come and help with mother and father!" Aline appeared sulkily. "Where have you been you idle little thing? Take mother and father's coats, brush them down and hang them up, then take their baggage to their room, try and be a good girl." Josette had hissed this in Aline's ear so Madge and Jem would not hear. The boys were whooping for joy. Aline's expression went unnoticed. She knew better than to ask Josette why Rosa couldn't take mother and father's coats. She had a brief kiss from her mother. That two second intimate contact nearly brought the girl to tears. "Thank you, Ailie darling!" "Ailie, what's the matter are you ill?" Jem strode over to his daughter. "Of course she's OK Dad, too much lying on her bed doing nothing!" Josette joked, but underneath Ailie caught the message: Josette did not like malingerers. "Oh Ailie, you silly sausage! Exercise is good for you! Go out and climb a big tree!" Jem hugged his daughter. She desperately wanted to hold on to him, but Josette would only scold her for being babyish. She knew why Josette was such a bully: sadly Ailie was a slack worker and although energetic, did not find the team games interesting. She thrived on naughtiness and would not channel her energies into hobbies or anything but wicked sauce. She always defaulted on her library fines, which were usually paid for by a smouldering Sybil and she had already had several uncomfortable interviews in Miss Annersley's study. All of this was shielded from Madge by Josette. She was terrified of her mother being upset or disappointed. As far as Josette was concerned Aline was a disappointment and needed a firm hand. Ailie felt uncommonly like Cinderella. Sybil was a beast whenever she raised the subject of library fines and Josette was a beast, full stop. She was always treated as a skivvy and in her view lived the life of a slave. Even inviting her bosom friends Janice and Judy had to be justified to Josette and when the trio where present at the Round House, they had to play a game of "cat and mouse" with Josette, which was no fun at all. It wasn't as if Josette was only nasty to her, she cracked down hard on the Maynard cousins and could be ruthless in her criticism of Maeve Bettany. The Cinderella of the Russell House wearily hung the coats on the hatstand and was about to take the heavy suitcases upstairs when Madge said, "Stop! You have a new cousin! Auntie Joey has quads now!" "Shouldn't that be new cousins mother? Len said nothing about Auntie Joey having babies in her last letter!" Josette frowned again. "Well, these quads are fifteen years old and three of them are called Len, Con and Margot!" "Oh I see! She's adopted somebody else!" "No dear, she genuinely had quads when the trips were born, but the first baby was delivered early and well, abducted sad to say, but she has come home and she will be in the Chalet School as of next term!" "Come along we shall tell you the whole story!" Intrigued, the Russell children followed their parents to the drawing room. As they reached the door, Josette stopped Ailie. "I thought you were taking the bags upstairs?" "But Josette!" "Upstairs!" Josette nodded her head towards the bags. This time Ailie did cry. "I hate you!" Josette showed no emotion. As the Russells sat down, Madge asked, "Where's Ailie?" "Just taking your bags up to your room!" Josette volunteered. "Such a good girl! Well, we shall wait for her." Ailie came down. She had washed her face. Josette would be angry if it came to light that she had been weeping. "Good! Now let's begin!" Madge told the tale of Theresa and how she had been stolen away at birth. Ailie wished she had been taken away! She looked wistful and sleepy. Jem stopped. "Ailie, dearest you don't look at all well, I think you should lie down." Ailie took her father's advice, but her blood ran cold at Josette's next words. "Don't worry Dad, I'll look after her!" "You are so sweet, Josette!" complimented Madge. Ailie stifled a sob upstairs. If only Mummy knew the truth, but that would mean telling her what a bad girl she had been at her school! Josette entered the room and made this point. "You little fool! Do you want mother and father to know what you have been doing at school? Shall I tell them about all those Head's Reports you were on? Shall I?" Ashen faced, Ailie shook her head. Ailie dreaded school. Ailie dreaded Josette. Josette would be even worse now she was Head Girl. This new Maynard cousin must be warned about her at all costs! Days later on arrival at the school, Ailie stared in wonder at her triplet cousins who were now joined by a quad; such lovely red hair! Just like Sybil. The quads were giggling wildly and pointing different people out on the buses. Josette grabbed Ailie's hand as she was moving towards Janice and Judy. Josette had deliberately separated them all throughout the journey. "Come along Ailie! Time to meet your new cousin." Ailie felt cross. It looked like the Head Girl was dragging her around like a toy. "I can walk Josette!" she snapped. "Don't be insolent Aline!" "Theresa, we are your cousins on your Auntie Madge's side, I'm Josette, Head Girl this year and this little monster is my wicked sister Aline or Ailie. An imp of mischief if ever there was one." Len Con and Margot laughed with the august Head Girl. Ailie looked humiliated, it was something Theresa noticed straight away. Theresa started to have a dislike of her cousin Josette. What sort of girl pillories her sister in public even if she is annoying? Theresa had not had brothers or sisters until she was returned to her real family. She valued them, but Josette appeared to have no value for her sister. Theresa was disgusted. Ailie briefly looked at her cousin's face and mistook the look of revulsion for disgust at her. Oh no! Not another Maynard! She was allowed to go and unpack, but not before Josette had given her a final warning about better behaviour or else. This was shouted across the playground. Ailie could bear this no longer. She would get even with Josette! |
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| Author: | PaulineS [ Tue Aug 28, 2007 5:30 pm ] |
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Me thinks Josette is in for a suprise. Poor Ailie, hope she has a better term. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Tue Aug 28, 2007 5:40 pm ] |
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Theresa is very perceptive. I hope she can help Ailie. I like the way you always have Josette as such a monster in your stories, Phil! |
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| Author: | Liz K [ Tue Aug 28, 2007 6:02 pm ] |
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There's no way I can express my opinion of Josette; I'd be banned for life from The CBB if I did!
 Please don't ban me please!
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| Author: | Lesley [ Tue Aug 28, 2007 9:11 pm ] |
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Josette deserves everything that's coming to her this term - I do hope it's lots - and that Theresa will become Ailie's ally. Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Rosalin [ Tue Aug 28, 2007 9:25 pm ] |
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I like Theresa, she seems to have the Maynard family under control already. I've always rather liked Josette too, but she's quite nasty here. Ailie didn't deserve all that, but Josette is trying to shelter her mother, and as the first Russell head girl she would have to tread carefully to avoid claims of favouritism. Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Wed Aug 29, 2007 12:04 am ] |
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I could never understand why the Head Girls were so scared of being accused of favouritism. It isn't if they get the same punishment as everyone else but is a kind of inverse favouritism if the get more. Hope Theresa sorts out Josette as well as she's help everyone else. She's just being a bully there |
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| Author: | Jennie [ Wed Aug 29, 2007 12:04 pm ] |
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Josette is certainly evil in this drabble. Thanks, Phil. |
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| Author: | JackieP [ Wed Aug 29, 2007 1:37 pm ] |
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Lyanne wrote: There's nothing to stop you naming your child 'Elvis Presley'.
Alas - for their is an Elvis Presley Smith in my fair city.... But enjoying this, Phil - although Josette seems overly fussy. JackieP |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Wed Aug 29, 2007 5:01 pm ] |
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I don't like Josette here at all. Thanks, Phil. |
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| Author: | NineLivesBurra [ Wed Aug 29, 2007 6:44 pm ] |
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I don't know how Josette will cope as HG if she is like this but I understand the idea of being accused of favouritism. My sisters and I all went to the same school and when I was a senior, one of the once tried it on with me. She expected to get away with her rule breaking.....lol....she only tried it the once...;p I do like this story though. It's very good. Is there more, Phil? |
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| Author: | Phil [ Wed Aug 29, 2007 8:36 pm ] |
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The quads had been asked to take Kaffee und Kuchen with the Head Girl. Theresa half expected the poor downtrodden Ailie to be present dressed only in rags and serving the confections and beverages whilst Josette screamed at her. "Then Dad says I can go to the LSE after Millies, what about you Theresa, oh must we call you Theresa?" "Mother suggested Terry, but she didn't like that at all! I actually think Mum enjoyed being stood up to!" giggled Margot. "Theresa is just fine. I would like to go the University of Wales, Cardiff to study medicine. Margot is planning for Edinburgh, Len and Con for Oxford, Dad's old ground, so I think Wales needs a Maynard." "You could try Cambridge!" Theresa laughed. "I caught a terrible cold in Cambridge once! I wanted to see all the historical bits and the Fens, but I was laid up for a fortnight! No, I think I will give Cambridge a miss, fascinating though it is!" "Josette, my I ask a personal question? It's just I don't know all of my real family yet and..." "Ask away, my child" The remark was intended to be humorous, but Theresa found it patronising, so she asked the next question with confidence. "You don't seem to like your little sister, why's that?" The other three quads froze. This was just not talked about. Josette's smile disappeared and she put her cup down on the saucer with a definitive bang. "Aline is no Chalet School girl. She is lazy, ill mannered and lives solely for naughtiness. She has absolutely no sense of decorum or honour let alone responsibility. I end up shielding a lot of her mischief from mother and Auntie Joey. If they knew everything that little goat got up to, they would be worried sick. She is frequently brought before prefects' meetings and Miss Annersley. Your sisters have helped me maintain this vow of silence to mother and Aunt Joey and I must ask that you do the same. Sadly my little sister will come to nothing in the world. She cannot be reformed. Luckily once Miss Annersley finishes punishing her, that is the end of it and no more is said to mother or even Aunt Joey. Not even Auntie is privy to matters of school discipline." Something was badly wrong here! How on earth could Mum and Auntie Madge not know about Ailie? So they didn't know about Ailie's misdeeds, yet! "But surely Josette, Auntie Madge msut have some idea? Is Ailie really as bad as all that?" Josette acted as if she had been stung. "You don't know how much of a monster she is! I shall never forget her first time in Church, she screamed at the vicar crying "It's a ghost!" then if you please, mother, Ailie and I were on a bus in Armiford and an elderly African man got on. Do you know what Ailie said? "Mummy, why is that man all black?" I could have died of embarrassment! "How old was Ailie at the time?" interrupted Theresa. "Three." Josette paused. "Oh really Josette!" "She was so embarrassing! She loved to pretend to be a monkey and made silly monkey noises in public, she had imaginary friends who she always blamed if she was in trouble and her school career has consisted of three Head's Reports! Do you know what I had to do to cover up for her? I had to accidentally drop her school report in mud so that it blotted out Miss Annersley's report and the notice about punishments! I had to lie to Miss Annersley to say mother did not wish to discuss the matter, but had dealt with Ailie! I am so sick of her! All this to protect mother's reputation! She is the founder of this school. I have to protect mother at all costs!" Josette was shaking with emotion now. "I don't think there is any more to be gained by this discussion. Len, Con, Margot, it was good to see you. Please come round to my way of thinking Theresa. I would welcome another pair of hands!" To Theresa it was obvious. Josette was cracking up, both with the strain of schoolwork in the tough LSE exams and with what she saw as her duty to protect her mother. As she left she thought she could hear a stifled sob in the room. Her quad sisters had moved away with alacrity. "Wait you three! Can't you see this isn't right! 'The truth will out' or something like that. It is clear to me Josette is not very well and she is bullying Ailie! Now if Ailie is being a problem, I think we should sort it out. Josette cannot manage; she's incapable!" The other three looked horrified. Loyalty to Josette looked like it had gone too far. They had felt awful about not revealing Ailie's shortcomings to Joey; besides, she would probably react as Madge would. What were they to do? "Oh come on! You've got me now! Your effectiveness is now quadrupled and I am a fresh pair of eyes!" This convinced the doubting trio. "Mum's not going to like this, but we have to tell!" said Con. "There's going to be fireworks!" agreed Margot. "I feel dreadful about butting in, Mary Lou warned me off in very strong terms last Summer because I was butting in with Con and Margot!" Len mumbled this sadly. She had not recovered fully since Mary Lou's post Zermatt warnings! Theresa put an arm around her. "Come on Len! Whoever this Mary Lou is, she's gone for good! You spread your wings and flourish! You don't have to live your life by what somebody from history said to you!" Len giggled at this; being cheeky about Mary Lou was fun! Theresa was quite a sister. The quads had meandered down to the fields. In the meantime an angry Josette was searching through Ailie's untidy locker. Josette mentally awarded her sister an order mark. She wanted to inspect the marks for Ailie's holiday work which she knew her sister had received. The marks were not good. Plenty of red ink was dotted over the latin exercises. The maths was below standard and the geography! Ailie would have to do this again. When the whole school were watching the prefects' entertainment at the weekend, Aline Russell would be doing the corrections. Josette felt dizzy as she slammed the locker shut. She felt even more dizzy as she tried to stumble away. She sat down to rest. She felt so sleepy. She couldn't sleep! She was on duty! She was no spineless jellyfish! She had to prove herself as Head Girl, keep discipline, work hard! Prove she could be as good as Mary Lou. Please couldn't she lie down? Just for five minutes...Five minutes...five minutes...five.... |
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| Author: | Phil [ Wed Aug 29, 2007 8:44 pm ] |
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Ninelivesburra wrote: Quote: My
sisters and I all went to the same school and when I was a senior, one
of the once tried it on with me. She expected to get away with her rule
breaking.....lol....she only tried it the once...;p
I am so tempted to ask what she did! Perhaps I shouldn't (grins) |
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| Author: | NineLivesBurra [ Wed Aug 29, 2007 9:48 pm ] |
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hmmmm, do you want to know what she did wrong or what she did to try and get me to let her off?.....*giggle*........either might give you sub plots....lol. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Wed Aug 29, 2007 10:10 pm ] |
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Theresa seems to have s great deal of backbone - well done! Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Wed Aug 29, 2007 10:39 pm ] |
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Part of me feels sorry for Josette cos she is trying to protect her sister but she needs to let her face her Mothers wrath. It might change her far better than a bossy older sister. Thanks Phil. Am loving the dynamics of the quads. Theresa is certainly keeping them on their toes and please can we see Theresa mmet OOAOML |
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| Author: | Phil [ Wed Aug 29, 2007 10:47 pm ] |
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NineLivesBurra wrote: hmmmm,
do you want to know what she did wrong or what she did to try and get
me to let her off?.....*giggle*........either might give you sub
plots....lol.
Both please! Yes it would give me an idea for subplots. I use a lot of my school experiences for stories I have written (see archived threads) and from what friends and family have told me. For instance the bit about Ailie, Madge and Josette on the bus and Ailie sees the African gentleman is based on when my three year old mother saw her first coloured gentleman in 1946. This was on a bus and she said something similar to Ailie and apparently the man burst out laughing. My grandmother was embarrassed. |
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| Author: | Rosalin [ Thu Aug 30, 2007 1:21 am ] |
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Josette seems to be another Len here, but with out the Zermatt incident to restrain her. Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Jennie [ Thu Aug 30, 2007 11:44 am ] |
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Thanks, Phil. This does really raise the question of whether Josette is fit to be Head Girl, doesn't it? |
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| Author: | Sarah_K [ Thu Aug 30, 2007 12:47 pm ] |
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Actually right now I want to shake Madge and Joey for letting Josette get herself into such a state! All that insistence on watching out for younger siblings and the proud position of Head Girl and Josette is clearly exhausted! After all she's trying her best even if she is incredibly misguided; surely someone should have told Madge about Ailie's behaviour if it's been bad! Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Phil [ Thu Aug 30, 2007 10:08 pm ] |
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Josette awoke in the San. How on Earth did she get here? The last thing she remembered was going through Ailie's locker. She was not alone, Matey was standing over her. Somehow she managed to mix a grim expression on her face with that of a kind one. Something only school matrons could achieve! "Right, young lady will you kindly tell me why you saw fit to pass out in the junior locker rooms? You gave Miss Ferrars a terrible shock! It's a mercy Guadenz was close by to carry you here! Thank your lucky stars none of the girls saw! The main thing is you. Why have you been overworking? That's what this is down to. You can't pull the wool over my eyes." Josette sighed with relief! Nobody, save Gaudenz, Miss Ferrars and Matey and probably Miss Annersley knew about her faint. She could retain her authority. "I've been very silly, Matey. I have been so worried about being Head Girl and going to LSE after Millies. I have been working too hard. It won't happen again." "So I should hope not! If it does, I shall telephone your father and you know what that would mean!" Josette gasped. If Dad thought she was overworking and making herself ill, he might do a paternal U-turn and forbid her going to university! Faced with this choice, Josette meekly submitted to Matey and spent the rest of the day in bed. Matey briefed Miss Annersley who in turn briefed the prefects. That evening, the second prefect performed Josette's duties, the excuse given was that she had a bad headache. "Josette never has headaches!" said Con suspiciously. Len was thinking the same thing. "Are you sure?" asked Theresa. "Positive." Margot nodded. Len went to make further enquiries, but was firmly rebuffed. Ailie seemed to be enjoying herself but under Maeve Bettany's glare she started to behave. She had been playing with a peashooter which she had found in the attics of the Round House. Her intention was to rag the Head Girl. Theresa eyed her suspiciously. Maybe her little cousin did have a naughty side to her! "What's she up to?" asked Con, motioning to Ailie. "I've no idea, except it didn't look like anything lawful." "How do you know?" broke in Margot. "I was captain of Mddles at my last school I know when there is contraband in a kid's pocket." She pointed at Ailie. Len smiled as she saw the peashooter. Ailie saw her Maynard cousins eyeing her like hawks. She still hoped to get the red haired one on her side! Divide and rule! Divide and rule! Ailie retreated out of sight. She wandered round to the San and saw through an open window, her sister lying on a bed, sleeping like a baby. Here was her chance. She loaded and took aim with the peashooter. Josette was going to love this! |
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| Author: | Sarah_K [ Thu Aug 30, 2007 11:28 pm ] |
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When Ailie says Josette's going to love this... hopefully she'll take one step too far and the authorities will get involved at least a little! Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Rosalin [ Thu Aug 30, 2007 11:29 pm ] |
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Hmm, less sympathy for Ailie here, but I can see why she wants to get back at Josette. Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Thu Aug 30, 2007 11:45 pm ] |
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Not got much respect for Matey there - jumping to conclusions or what? Ailie sounds like a typical Middle - perhaps, rather than trying to protect her and save madge from finding out, everyone should just allow her to feel the full consequences. Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Fri Aug 31, 2007 6:31 am ] |
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Yes, my sympathies are swinging now, too. Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Jennie [ Fri Aug 31, 2007 8:20 am ] |
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Mind you, I'dlike to point out that a lot of Ailie's misbehaviour is Josette's fault. She wouldn't be so bad if Josette wasn't screaming at her all the time and trying to turn her into some sort of clone. |
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| Author: | Phil [ Fri Aug 31, 2007 7:37 pm ] |
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The pellets were fired in rapid succession and were deadly accurate. Josette awoke with a roar as she felt the irritating stings in her neck and one went down her ear. Poor Josette looked a sight, dancing around with her head on one side and trying to shake the pellet out of the ear. "OOOOOH!" the Head Girl roared. The pellet made the wise decision to leave Josette's outer ear canal. "Red handed!" A terrified squeak. "Aline! Whatever were you doing with this?" "Why, the window to the San is open!" "You weren't shooting at your sister were you?" Josette heard the quads. She rushed to the window, pellets in her hand. Choking her rage down, she beckoned to her sister who was held in Theresa's firm grip. Aline wriggled and squealed. "Did you do this?" Josette's voice was hoarse. Ashen faced, Ailie nodded. "Miss Annersley's office! This instant! Report yourself at once! I have had all I can take of you!" "No, please! Not Miss Annersley! No! Think of mummy, Josette! Think of mummy!" Ailie knew this was a valuable piece of emotional blackmail. Josette paused. She looked like she might just punish Ailie and not send her to the Head after all. "Very well, since your cousins caught you, I shall leave it to them to deal with you! You have my authority to punish Ailie appropriately. keep me informed, you four!" With that the exhausted Josette went back to bed. The quads eyed the defiant Miss Russell. "Now. What can we devise?" asked Len. "Something suitable.." began Con. "...And lingering." finished Margot. "How about letting me go free?" Ailie was insolent. Theresa eyed her with cold disdain. "I have an idea." "Have you?" asked Con, looking at Theresa. "It isn't a nice one." warned Theresa. Ailie looked worried. Her new quad cousin was an unknown quantity. "Ailie! From my view, I saw you as being a victim of your sister's bullying. There are two sides to an argument however and whilst I think Josette has been at fault in some ways, so have you! Josette may be worried about taking you to Miss Annersley, I am not!" Grabbing Ailie by the wrist,she took her unwilling prisoner in the direction of Miss Annersley's office! |
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| Author: | Rosalin [ Fri Aug 31, 2007 11:28 pm ] |
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I think Theresa has the right idea. There's too much going on for the quads to sort out by themselves. Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Sat Sep 01, 2007 5:30 am ] |
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And we know that Miss Annersley will deal faithfully with Ailie! |
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| Author: | Liz K [ Sat Sep 01, 2007 7:52 am ] |
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Go, Theresa, go!!!! |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Sat Sep 01, 2007 9:55 am ] |
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Think Theresa's idea is the best of the lot. Thanks Phil |
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| Author: | Phil [ Sat Sep 01, 2007 8:11 pm ] |
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Miss Annersley was being entertained in her office by Joey who had brought a letter from Mike. That young man was aggrieved at the injustices of school, which were clearly designed to torture small boys. "The girls don't have to put up with this Mamma! They have the Chalet School, where everybody is nice and kind and understanding, the rooms and dormitories are warm and the food delicious and Auntie Hilda there to look after you..." "Oh poor Mike! The grass is always greener on the other side isn't it Joey!" "Indeed! He doesn't seem to realise that girls get worked up into tears at the sight of a maths exam paper or that things go wrong with the heating!" There was a knock at the door. "Herein!" Joey rose to go. "I'll go to the staff room now Hilda." "Oh mother I am so glad you are here too!" Theresa strode in with a captive Ailie and a guard of Len, Con and Margot. At the sight of Miss Annersley, Ailie wanted to curl up and die, but at the sight of Auntie Joey! Oh dear! "What is the matter girls?" The Abbess was intrigued. This was clearly no family social gathering. Theresa laid the peashooter on the desk and Len supplied the pellets. Ailie flinched and succeeded in bolting but was caught by Con and Margot. "Stay where you are Aline! What is the meaning of this?" Miss Annersley's voice was dangerous. "Shall I tell her or shall you?" Theresa was about to tell Miss Annersley the whole story. Ailie paused. "Very well" Theresa said. "Miss Annersley, I went to find Ailie because I thought she was being bullied and we caught her..." "Allright! Allright! I'll tell her!" shrieked Ailie. "I found this peashooter in the attic at home and I used in on Josette when she was sleeping in the San. She caught me!" Ailie glared at the expressionless Theresa. "Miss Annersley, I should let you deal with this school matter in private..." began Joey. Hilda knew her Joey and knew she was agog with curiosity. She was in loco parentis for Ailie and Josette and this matter clearly involved her own quads. Miss Annersley allowed her to stay. "Why did you use the peashooter on Josette?" Ailie tried silence. It did not work. "Answer!" It was not often Miss Annersley shouted and on this occasion she did to great effect. The quads and their mother fairly jumped out of their skins. Ailie collapsed sobbing, her resolve broken. "She's always being so nasty to me! It's every day at school and at home! Always commands, treating me like a slave and if I refuse she says the most horrible things about how I'm a disgrace to mummy and I would never make a proper Chalet School girl. She says she protects me from mummy and daddy being cross and she is in a way, she doesn't tell her about the Head's Reports and the letter you sent last term and she is so cross all the time! I just don't like work! I admit it! I don't like it!" Margot took charge of the sinning cousin and put her onto a chair which Con had brought forth. Miss Annersley was shocked at this information. So too was Joey. The expressions on the faces of the quads told them it was true. "Con take Aline to Matron. I shall speak to her later." Con left the room having to practically drag the fainting Ailie. Miss Annersley guessed at something Len, Con and Margot had to say. "Girls, did your parents know anything about this?" Out of the corner of her eye, Joey could be seen vigorously shaking her head. "Why not?" "We were doing it to help Josette. She swore us to secrecy. She is terrified of Auntie Madge falling ill or being upset or getting into trouble. She doesn't want to be a failure in Auntie Madge's eyes if she cannot control Ailie." confessed Len. "She also wants Ailie to be the sweet daughter Auntie Madge never had so as to make Auntie happy." testified Margot. "What sort of excuse is that?" ejaculated Joey. "So, by deceiving your Headmistress and your parents and Aunt and Uncle, you have displayed a very dishonourable trait of untrustworthiness. This has also been apparent of my own Head Girl, who was my own choice, her mother had nothing to do with my decision." "Miss Annersley!" "No Theresa! You were not here at the time, so you are excused. I will have to suspend Josette..." "Oh no Miss Annersley!" "Please don't Miss Annersley!" "...suspend Josette from her duties as Head Girl and allow someone else to take over. As for you, I shall deal with you appropriately once I have discussed this with your mother! Wait outside!" Two glum Maynards departed. The third decided on a last ditch plea for her sisters and her sick cousin. |
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| Author: | Liz K [ Sat Sep 01, 2007 8:20 pm ] |
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Coo, I'm glad I was sitting down when I read this latest instalment. I'm ashamed to say I haven't even started to THINK of my own drabble regarding the Robin yet, I MUST get going.
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| Author: | linda [ Sat Sep 01, 2007 8:57 pm ] |
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O dear, things have gone from bad to worse. What will Madge say when she discovers that Josette has been suspended from being head girl. And what will Miss Annersley do about Len, Con and Margot's part in all this? Thanks for this great story Phil |
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| Author: | Rosalin [ Sun Sep 02, 2007 12:22 am ] |
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Miss Annersley was quite harsh there. I think Madge and Jem need to be examining how they are bringing their children up if Josette is left thinking like that. Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Sun Sep 02, 2007 1:52 pm ] |
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Thanks, Phil.
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| Author: | Phil [ Sun Sep 02, 2007 9:25 pm ] |
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With the sinner in isolation and awaiting redemption from The Father, The Son and The Holy Ghost, Con returned to see Len and Margot standing woefully outside Miss Annersley's office. The poor lambs looked like they were booked for an appointment with the Lord High Executioner. "Whatever's happened?" queried the third quad. "The Abbess and Mum know about us covering for Josette." "Con, Miss Annersely says she will suspend Josette from being Head Girl!" Con was horrifed. "But we didn't mean to do anything wrong!" "But it was deceitful! We thought we could handle it!" wailed Len. The door was wrenched open and Miss Annersley motioned the woeful trio in. The Headmistress eyed the unhappy girls in silence until all of them felt they would scream. "Your sister Theresa has launched a very passionate defence of you and your cousin. She has managed to do what no girl has ever done before, not even Mary Lou. She has persuaded me to revoke my suspension of Josette and my proposed Head's Reports for all three of you. Instead, you, Josette and Aline will explain your deception to your father and your uncle and aunt who are visiting at the weekend. I will also be present. Since this did not involve Theresa, she is excused and may go on the ramble planned for the weekend." Theresa felt awful. She moved to her quad sisters. "Miss Annersley, please, I stand with my sisters! I want to take their punishment with them. We are quads." Miss Annersley looked as if her patience had been tried enough by Theresa. That young lady wondered whether she had gone too far. Instinctively, she clutched at Margot for support. "Very well. Now all four of you leave this office at once. I am deeply disappointed in you. I have no wish to see you here again!" The quaking quads left. Miss Annersley turned to Joey. "Never would I have expected such wrong headed thinking from your girls or Josette for that matter." "It's been hurtful Hilda, but I think you did the right thing. I shall speak to Jack and Jem and Madge. That will soften the blow and give them a chance to be forgiving." "And I will speak to Josette and Aline." ------------------------------------------------------------ Miss Annersley strode majestically along the corridors. A junior seemed to be trying to sniff some flowers on the window sill. Miss Annersley gave the child a curious look and walked on. The junior gave a sigh of relief as the Abbess passed. At least she didn't see her very inky face! In the San, Miss Annersley was being firm but gentle with Josette. "Do you think such deception is appropriate in a Head Girl?" asked Miss Annersley. Josette's sobs told the Abbess her reply. "Rest now dear, we are all going to explain this to your mother and father at the weekend. Now don't worry I will be there to help you." The quads came for comfort as soon as she was gone. "We're sorry Josette!" "It's my fault Josette, I took Ailie to Miss Annersley and everything got uncovered! I am so sorry." Theresa was crying. Josette hugged her. "Oh it's all right now. It's all out in the open, you've probably done Ailie and I a big favour. At least mum and dad will have to do something now!" What would the weekend bring? |
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| Author: | patmac [ Sun Sep 02, 2007 9:32 pm ] |
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Quote: Your
sister Theresa has launched a very passionate defence of you and your
cousin. She has managed to do what no girl has ever done before, not
even Mary Lou.
Good grief! Theresa is such a paragon of virtue - outdoing Mary-Lou! This is great, Phil. |
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| Author: | Rosalin [ Sun Sep 02, 2007 10:59 pm ] |
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What is Theresa's secret? Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sun Sep 02, 2007 11:19 pm ] |
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Thanks Phil - very entertaining.
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Mon Sep 03, 2007 8:54 am ] |
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Poor Josette. She was trying to protect her parents and what were Madge and Jem thinking of That was lovely of Theresa
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| Author: | Phil [ Mon Sep 03, 2007 9:30 pm ] |
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A phalanx was formed of Theresa, then Josette gripping a gibbering Ailie, then three of the glum Maynard quads. The formation moved with grim and slow determination in the direction of Freuedesheim. At least they were spared the sight of the other girls watching the march of doom which they were undertaking. None were looking forward to the parental meeting, but Ailie in particular felt she may come off the worst. They were allowed entry by Anna, who cast a reproachful glance at them. What had they been up to this time, the wicked Kindern? The tidal wave of guilt sweeping over the girls was incredible as they were sat in front of reproachful looking parents and Auntie Hilda. Ailie whimpered and bagan to clutch at Josette for support. It seemed there might be some scope for a proper sibling relationship to develop. "Well?" asked Madge. "I have never heard of such behaviour in all my life..." Madge had begun to scold. The girls, including the innocent Theresa, burst into tears. "You may well cry. That one of my daughters deceives me by not telling me about the wickedness of my other daughter is bad enough, but that her cousins should also engage in that deception and try to pull the wool over Miss Annersely's eyes is outrageous!" "Please mummy, we're very sorry." sobbed Josette. "You have made yourself sick with worry over AIlie, haven't you Josette? You have properly punished yourself for maintaining this deception. I have been told about you fainting and I have also been told about your methods of disciplining Ailie! Everything was totally unacceptable." Josette had never been spoken to like that by her mother in her entire life and it was a terrible shock. "I just wanted Ailie to be good and she wouldn't do it! I wanted to please you! Nothing worked with Ailie..." "And you think that justifies bullying your little sister?" Josette shook her head wildly. Ailie was moved by the distress her sister was in. Josette had been covering for her all the time! She moved over to cuddle her sister. Then it was her turn for the scolding. "As for you, young lady! Three Head's Reports, deliberate lack of attention in class, homework not done, laziness, excuses to get out of games and enough insolence and cheek to make a saint blush! Really Aline! And you have made your sister ill! "Sorry Josette!" wept Ailie. "I have to reconsioder sending you to the Chalet School. If your work and attitude do not improve drastically over the next term, a place will be booked for you at Corbin's boarding school." Ailie was breathless with shock! "Corbin's!" Josette looked shocked too. "Not Corbin's mummy! I'm sure Ailie will be good now! I shall help her!" Corbin's boarding school ran a particularly repressive regime from a remote island off the coast of Wales. It was not recommended by anyone. Ailie collapsed onto Josette, who held onto her little sister. "Please forgive us! Please!" cried Josette. Madge drew her breath. Perhaps she had been a little harsh. The truth was she had been so angry with herself for being an inadequate mother that she felt she did not want to be taken advantage of by her children. Jem stepped in with a sententious saying, "Oh what a tangled web we weave when first we practise to deceive!" "Both of you girls have hurt us deeply through your behaviour and lack of honesty. We don't need protecting, all we need is honesty! Good old fashioned honesty! Now there will be no talk of sending either of you to Corbin's! We are very disappointed in you, but we still love you. Now never do that again! Ever!" Jem spoke firmly but gently. He remembered the last time he had exploded at one of his daughters. On that occasion, Sybil had sunk into a deep depression and at one point her breathing had stopped; long enough to make Jem realise Sybil nearly died of a broken heart. He would not make the same mistake twice. |
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| Author: | Rosalin [ Mon Sep 03, 2007 10:49 pm ] |
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I'm still feeling rather sorry for Josette. Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Mon Sep 03, 2007 10:56 pm ] |
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Well at least Madge realises that she's not been a good mother - after all, continually wishes that at least one of her daughters had become a proper, feminine girl is going to start them on the road to inferiority complexes before they're thirty!
Thanks Phil |
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| Author: | Phil [ Sat Nov 03, 2007 10:11 pm ] |
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Can't believe it has been so long since an update . Apologies. I have changed jobs and the depression reoccurred! Theresa fitted into the Maynard household like a hand in a glove. She had made a great impression on her siblings and her Russell cousins. The tentative rebuilding of a relationship between Josette and Ailie was starting to work. Josette was finding out how pleasing it was to have a sister who wanted her affection and Ailie glowed in Josette's praise for her efforts in school. Theresa felt somewhat nervous as she met the countless brevet Aunts and finally her Bettany relatives. Len, Con and Margot had played a prank on her about how strict Uncle Dick was. Theresa was quite shocked to find Dick Bettany was the most laid back man she had ever met! She then saw her grinning quads and proceeded to scrag them. As term wore on Theresa relaxed. Her peace was about to be shattered in the most rude way possible. Mary Lou Trelawney, with the best will in the world had acquired a patient for Uncle Jack. Having helped at the Chalet School, she found she could never really leave the place alone and was determined to help both at the school and the San. So she acquired a patient; a homeless man suffering from amnesia begging on the streets of Paris. Apparently he had been begging for fourteen years, possibly fifteen. The poor fellow was in need of a good shelter and medical attention and Mary Lou had taken her captive to the Gornetz Platz irrespective of whether Jack wanted him or not. she admitted the unfortunate to the hospital and after bearing down upon the nurses and using Jack's name several times to reinforce her authority. she set off for Freuedesheim. She walked straight in, fully expecting to be waited upon. Instead one of the triplets viewed her with astonishment. Theresa looked exactly like Margot when she was astonished. Her blue eyes sparkled. She still was not used to people just walking in. Especially this strange girl. At once her arm was grabbed in a vice like grip. "Margot Maynard! You've dyed your hair! How dare you! What on Earth will Matey say? She will make you wash your hair at once! Wait until Aunt Joey hears about this! Uncle Jack will be so cross!" "Let go of me you mad woman! I tell you I am not Margot! She is my sister!" The scolding stopped and Mary Lou looked into Theresa's eyes. "Blue eyes! That proves it! How dare you lie to me Margot! Have you no honour? No sense of shame and after I warned you about your behaviour at Zermatt!? I am deeply disappointed in you Margot!" "Get off me you nutter!" screeched the powerless Theresa. "Slang and impertinence! Margot, really!" "Owwww!!!" screamed Theresa. "It is always you! The 'naughty' one! You wil never change despite our best efforts in attending to your morals!" By now Theresa had wrenched herself free. "I am not Margot! I don't know who you are, but don't you dare talk about my quad like that! She is a good person and we are all proud of her! You leave her alone! We love her!" Mary Lou was astounded. "Quad? Did you say quad?" Theresa nodded. "Impossible!" the clarion tones rang forth. "Now Margot, I shall have no more of these untruths! What would Auntie Madge say?" "Er...Mary Lou." A voice rang out from behind the one with the bell like tones. She turned around to face the triplets. Mary Lou did a "double take" and had to count the triplets and Theresa three separate times before turning to Theresa. "And who are you?" "She's our fourth!" chorused the triplets. "Four of you! Four! I didn't know when I was well off!" she muttered under her breath. "But how, who, where, why, when, what..." Mary Lou was lost for words. "You had better come through to the Speisesaal." Len gestured to the ex Head Girl of the Chalet School. Mary Lou clutched at Con and Margot for support. Theresa followed, scowling. So this was the famous Mary Lou! |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sat Nov 03, 2007 11:31 pm ] |
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Hmmmm, well Mary Lou has made a wonderful first impression there, hasn't she? Thanks Phil. BTW should we be worried about the identity of Mary Lou's captive? |
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| Author: | Phil [ Sun Nov 04, 2007 10:08 am ] |
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"This is ridiculous!" expostulated OOAOML. "But it's the truth Mary Lou" "Rubbish!" "Honest Mary Lou" "Poppycock!" "That's slang Mary Lou!" Mary Lou gave Theresa an evil glare. Theresa stared at OOAO with a pert look of defiance. "Mary Lou, perhaps you should see Theresa's papers..." "No Con, I don't have to justify my existence to her!" What the towering colossus of the Chalet School OOAOML might have said to this cheeky response is unknown, for Joey bounced in with Bruno. "Hello girlies! Good Morning Mary Lou! I see you have met my long lost quad! She's a chip off the old block I don't mind telling you. She can take over from your work as champion butter in and it also leaves Len some room to have a little fun!" Mary Lou felt quite put out at this, but she tried not to show it. "I'm sure I won't be redundant; after all, I have known the Chalet School from an early age and the triplets!" Theresa visibly darkened at this. Len, Con and Margot recognised a warning sign. Hair and skulls would be flying soon! "It's quads now Mary Lou! You must get used to that!" "Very well, quads it is!" Joey raised her eyebrows at the surliness in Mary Lou's voice. Little did she know how Mary Lou yearned to have her own sisters. In fact, Mary Lou had thought of the triplets as her own little sisters. She adored them. Now there was someone new and it was very unsettling to the great Chaletian. Nobody noticed this, after all; Mary Lou spent so much time sorting out other people's feelings, nobody ever asked her how she felt. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sun Nov 04, 2007 10:47 am ] |
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Hmmmm, has Mary Lou forgotten her own 'sister-by-marriage'? Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Liz K [ Sun Nov 04, 2007 12:57 pm ] |
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Oh what fun! This gets better and better, I'm really enjoying it. |
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| Author: | Jennie [ Sun Nov 04, 2007 3:23 pm ] |
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Thanks, Phil, this is great. I suppose that it's too much to ask that the homeless man from Paris turns out to be related to the Robin, Biddy O'Ryan and Gaudenz? |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Sun Nov 04, 2007 4:22 pm ] |
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Phil wrote: "Get off me you nutter!"
Great to see more of this, thanks Phil.
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| Author: | Rosalin [ Sun Nov 04, 2007 4:31 pm ] |
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Good to see this back, thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Sun Nov 04, 2007 8:43 pm ] |
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This is fabulous. Thanks Phil. Am very glad to see it back. Hope the new job is going okay for you. Sorry to hear you weren't well |
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| Author: | Simone [ Tue Nov 06, 2007 2:39 pm ] |
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Fantastic - thanks Phil |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Tue Nov 06, 2007 5:54 pm ] |
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Great to see an update! Thanks, Phil. |
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| Author: | Phil [ Tue Nov 06, 2007 9:44 pm ] |
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Theresa was not impressed by OOAO, who quickly recovered her senses by illustrating her virtue in saving a homeless man from the streets of Paris. "What about all the other homeless people?" Theresa had asked. A steel glare from Mary Lou only brought a defiant look. This was most unusual. Mary Lou's steel glares were usually as effective as the stare of a basilisk or Medusa the Gorgon. Any possible confrontation was interrupted by Jack. "Mary Lou, that man you brought in; he's ex British army. We found an old regimental badge on him. We really had a struggle with him to take it away. We had to sedate him. I have a feeling he's a missing in action. Poor fellow, he doesn't know who he is. He must have been wandering as a vagrant for fourteen years, maybe more. He's definitely ex-services." "Dad! The poor man! He must have a family somewhere..." "Can he ever recover his memory?" "Can we help him?" Mary Lou gave a look to quieten the girls down. This had no effect on Theresa. "Are you contacting the War Office Dad?" "Just been on to them. They are checking all their missing in action lists." "Oh Jack! Wouldn't it be wonderful to reunite a family, to help this poor man?" Jack smiled at Joey. "I wish I could! There are all sorts of complications, whether the memory loss is permanent, how he and the family if any would cope..." "But a chance of a proper life again, Jack!" Joey's passion filled Jack with renewed vigour. He would move heaven and earth to help a patient. The quads had been conferring much to Mary Lou's irritation. "Dad, we want to help!" Theresa said firmly. Mary Lou could not believe her ears! This was a lovely gesture, but not their place at all, besides; Margot was too short tempered, Con too dreamy and Len already had her assigned tasks as leader of the children and carer in chief of the babies! As for that Theresa! No, a stand must be taken here! Butting in to save their parents the bother of explaining, Mary Lou said, "How do you propose to help? Your father is by far in the best position to help! What can you achieve? Besides, there is your school work! What would the Abbess say? Do you really think you can hold your temper with a patient Margot? It takes a long time to get over a behaviour like that. Con, do you think you can pay attention long enough? Len, who will look after the babies?" The flaws were being endlessly pointed out and Mary Lou expected Uncle Jack and Auntie Joey to back her up. "Oh Mary Lou! You don't have to keep bringing the Zermatt incident up to Margot like that!" "You mean you know Auntie Joey?" Mary Lou was shocked. "Yes of course I know! it's been dealt with. All in the past." Mary Lou gave the quads an evil look. Clearly things had got out of control since she left the Chalet School. OOAOML wanted things left as they were! "But how can they possibly help you Uncle Jack?" she cried. In her mind, the quads and especially the triplets were still little girls. |
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| Author: | Sarah_K [ Tue Nov 06, 2007 10:42 pm ] |
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Well I can understand OOAO being a bit jealous that she's not needed but she really really needs to shut up, and soon! Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Tue Nov 06, 2007 11:50 pm ] |
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Shut up Mary Lou
Thanks Phil |
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| Author: | Rosalin [ Wed Nov 07, 2007 11:25 am ] |
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I love the way Mary-Lou has absolutely no effect on Theresa. Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Billie [ Wed Nov 07, 2007 3:07 pm ] |
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Just read the last 3 or 4 installments. I LOVE Theresa's meeting with OOAOML!!!! Intrigued about the homeless man. Who could he be? |
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| Author: | Liz K [ Wed Nov 07, 2007 3:58 pm ] |
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 OOAOML 
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| Author: | Phil [ Sat Nov 10, 2007 12:48 am ] |
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Theresa completely ignored Miss Trelawney. In her view, Mary Lou was welcome as a guest of the family, but she was not a relative and not at school any more. "How about some sort of scrapbook showing him what has been going on over the past years? We could do that. Or maybe we could do some research on his regiment? I think we could do a lot of the research on your behalf Dad. It would save you and Mum time!" Mary Lou opened her mouth to protest at the lack of "Mama" or "Papa". Theresa cut in again. "It would help with our studies in history!" Mary Lou had to admire the girl. There was no doubt she was Uncle Jack and Auntie Joey's child. Yet she was more independent than the other three quads. Mary Lou put this down to the girl previously thinking of herself as an "only child" and having to fend for herself all these years. In addition to this, Theresa would not have had the warm, friendly, sheltered lifestyle the school had given to Len, Con and Margot. Whilst admiring her qualities, Mary Lou was also thinking that Theresa was usurping her role. Mary Lou was big enough to admit that the girl was a blood relative. They loooked the same, they had the same mannerisms. Mary Lou recognised she had to get over her attachment as surrogate "big sister" to Len Con and Margot. It wasn't an easy task and Mary Lou had every right to feel a little bit upset. She knew the family well enough to realise she would not be entirely pushed out of the scene, but she would no longer be as close as she was. Mary Lou deduced she must make the best of it and make friends with Theresa. It was quite refreshing to have someone sensible take a stand against her. "Good ideas girls!" Joey praised her quads. "Yes, always thinking positively!" Jack beamed. "I think some sort of scrapbook or record is an excellent idea." Mary Lou added. "Don't you want to help, Mary Lou?" Con asked nervously. Mary Lou could tell why Con was nervous. It was meant as a polite invitation, but OOAO was not required on this project. "No I don't think so, you are all clever enough to do this! If you do need anything and Uncle Jack and Auntie Joey are a bit busy, you know you can call on me. I won't butt in." Len, Con and Margot nearly fainted with shock. This did not go unnoticed by OOAO. Theresa recognised OOAO was backing off graciously. She smiled and accepted the peace offering. They could now be friends and on equal terms. Meanwhile in the Sanatorium, the patient twisted and turned in his sleep. He kept hearing gunfire and the sound of shells. There was a name. Someone was shouting a name. He couldn't quite make out the name. "Are light? Wright? Arkwright? Cart? Cartwright?" Drenched in sweat the patient woke up in terror. Cartwright! Was that his name? Or was it somebody else's? A doctor came in with two nurses. "Easy old man! Easy! Take it easy! Calm down!" The patient was sedated. |
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| Author: | linda [ Sat Nov 10, 2007 12:58 am ] |
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I'm glad Mary-Lou is being sensible and taking a back seat for once. Perhaps there is a chance that she and Theresa can be friends. But, who is the patient????? Thanks for the update Phil |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sat Nov 10, 2007 1:12 am ] |
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Good to see Mary Lou recognising when to hold out an olive branch. Intrigued about the patient. Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Sat Nov 10, 2007 3:09 am ] |
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I think that describes Mary Lou's relationship with the triplets to a T. Thanks Phil |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Sat Nov 10, 2007 4:02 am ] |
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OOAO is surprisingly likeable here! I'm also eager to find out about the patient. Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Jennie [ Sat Nov 10, 2007 1:24 pm ] |
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Thanks, Phil. |
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| Author: | Lyanne [ Sun Nov 11, 2007 3:32 pm ] |
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So he knew Nurse Cartwright's husband? |
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| Author: | Miss Di [ Tue Nov 13, 2007 5:11 am ] |
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Love seeing all these important current and ex-chaletians sat upon. Especially OOAOML! Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | miss_maeve [ Tue Nov 13, 2007 7:54 pm ] |
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Ooh, this is fascinating! I'm loving this whole story. I especially like that Theresa isn't at all fazed by Mary Lou (who has to be one of my least favourite Chalet characters BTW) |
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| Author: | Phil [ Tue Nov 13, 2007 9:19 pm ] |
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"Not Richard Cartwright then? Do you know who it is Jem?" Jack sat back in his office in the San. He gazed over his many pictures of his children (brevet nephews and nieces included). His eye settled on his recent addition. All Theresa's old stuff had been sent over by her ex guardian and now Jack and Joey had photos of their missing daughter as a baby, toddler and young girl. Jack picked up a recent one of the quads all together, laughing and uninhibited. It was set in a beautiful silver frame. Theresa was so happy. "Jack are you there? Patrick Paton. I've no need to tell you who he was." "Nurse MacLean's boyfriend." "Precisely." "The one who planted stolen goods on poor Nurse Cartwright." "I'm so sorry Jack. It's definitely not Richard Cartwright. His specific war grave is marked in a cemetery in Northern France. The physical description of your patient does not match Cartwright." "I'm relieved." "Why?" "Just a silly fear Jem. I thought if it was Cartwright and if he saw Theresa as his..." "Jack you really do worry too much! Theresa loves her Dad!" "Of course Jem." "Anyway, poor old Cartwright is definitely with God now. The problem here is as doctors we have to look after Paton, but he did commit a crime." "Yes Jem." "Call me if you need anything Jack. Anything at all." Jack frowned. The bullying meted out by Paton and MacLean had caused Nurse Cartwright to abduct his daughter. All those missed moments! All that love! Jack was sure Nurse Cartwright had loved Theresa, but it did not alter the fact Theresa was his and Joey's. Nevertheless, Jack had to look after his patient. Jack made his way grimly to the ward where Paton was kept. "Patrick Paton!" he breathed. The patient looked up. The patient was startled. "Paton! Yes! That was his name! He murdered Dickie Cartwright! I've been looking for him ever since! Patrick Paton must pay for his crimes, musn't Patrick?" The patient started to ramble incomprehensibly. Jack was shocked. What was this about Cartwright being murdered? |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Tue Nov 13, 2007 11:13 pm ] |
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Curiouser and curiouser. Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Wed Nov 14, 2007 7:25 am ] |
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Lesley wrote: Curiouser and curiouser.
I'll say!
Thanks Phil |
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| Author: | Jennie [ Wed Nov 14, 2007 2:11 pm ] |
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Thanks, Phil. It was great to see OOAO being put in her proper place. |
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| Author: | Phil [ Sat Nov 17, 2007 3:57 pm ] |
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A military policeman came to the San. "Dr Maynard around?" The nurse explained that Dr Maynard had gone home as he had finished for the day. The policeman was given Jack's contact details and set off for Freuedesheim. There was much to tell Dr Maynard; the man mulled over the evidence in his mind. He arrived in time to catch Jack - who had to make a detour to the Chalet School to treat another sprained wrist - as the great doctor let himself into his castle. "Jack? Jack Maynard?" "Colin? Colin Ferris? My dear fellow, what brings you here? Come inside old chap!" Sgt Ferris and Jack were relieved of their coats by Anna. "Why didn't you call me Colin? What are you up to these days? Still in the army?" "Jack how was your day...Who's this?" asked Joey. "One of my old comrades in arms! Sgt Colin Ferris Military Police. Just turned up on the doorstep. Are you here on holiday?" "I wish I was Jack, it's about your patient, he has been positively identified as Gunner Patrick Paton and he was due to be charged with the murder of Richard Cartwright before he went absent without leave." |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Sun Nov 18, 2007 10:38 am ] |
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Thanks Phil |
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| Author: | Jennie [ Sun Nov 18, 2007 4:09 pm ] |
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Ooh, the plot thickens. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Mon Nov 19, 2007 10:45 am ] |
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Most intrigued. Thanks Phil |
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| Author: | Billie [ Tue Nov 20, 2007 11:24 pm ] |
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| How strange. Exciting!
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| Author: | Phil [ Thu Nov 22, 2007 10:04 pm ] |
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Gunner Paton kept reliving his nightmare: Cartwright: "I want a word with you Paton; about you and your girlfriend's behaviour towards my wife!" Paton: "Let it drop! Go hang yourself!" Cartwright: "Stand to attention when you talk to me and address me as sir!" Paton: "Off duty now sir!" Cartwright: (grabbing Paton) "Now you listen to me..." A struggle, Cartwright gains the upper hand until Paton shoots him. Paton woke up, drenched in sweat. "I'm sorry! I'm so sorry! I shot him! I murdered him!" Paton realised he was not alone. At the door to the room were two grim faced men. One was Dr Jack Maynard, the other was Sgt Colin Ferris. Back in Freuedesheim, the quads had finished their scrapbook, blissfully unaware of the identity of the patient and the connection with Theresa's "adopted" mother. "Well, that's all done! Did you see Auntie Biddy's face when we showed her all the work we had done on this?" commented Len. "Knocked for six she was." grinned Margot. "You should have seen Mary Lou's face!" smirked Con. "Well if this man didn't know his history before, he will now!" Theresa finished. The quads took their grand scrapbook downstairs to show their parents and couldn't help overhearing, "But dash it all, Jack! The man confessed to killing Cartwright! That's good enough for me!" "He's still under medical care Colin! He has to be fit enough to stand trial for his crimes. Then there is the petty theft at the Guernsey San." The scrapbook dropped from Theresa's hands and she felt her body turn to ice. Whilst Con and Margot collected the scrap book together, Len tried to pull her quad sister away. "No Len! I'm staying!" "But we're not supposed to listen to this! It's stuff between Dad and his guest. Please come upstairs Theresa! We can ask Dad later!" "It is not worth being punished for eavesdropping!" Margot was terrified. Theresa had made her mind up. Con grasped the book for comfort and Margot and Len cowered away as Theresa knocked on the door and was bidden to enter. The three remaining quads were so used to sticking to families rules and not doing anything so taboo as asking your parents about their affairs; that everything Theresa seemed to do was quite revolutionary. "Dad, I'm sorry, I couldn't help but hear, we were going to show you the scrapbook when..." Jack stared at Theresa. "Was Mr Cartwright murdered then? The man who would have been my father?" Jack Maynard's stomach turned at the thought of discussing this with his daughter. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Thu Nov 22, 2007 10:30 pm ] |
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Murder, surely, manslaughter or possibly even self-defence. Poor Theresa though - but doesn't she seem brave in comparison with her wimpy sisters?
Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Simone [ Fri Nov 23, 2007 10:40 am ] |
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Great to see more of this Thanks Phil |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Fri Nov 23, 2007 11:19 am ] |
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Thanks for the update Phil |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Fri Nov 23, 2007 5:10 pm ] |
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Thanks, Phil. |
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| Author: | Phil [ Fri Nov 23, 2007 10:58 pm ] |
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In many ways, Jack was quite relieved at the forthrightness of his long lost daughter. It was not that he didn't love all his other children, but he sometimes wondered if the strict adherence to obedience he had drummed into them from an early age had not also hindered their independent spirit. Theresa had needed to be independent all her life as she only had Nurse Cartwright to look after her. The boys were slightly more independent as they were not born and brought up with their school as the girls were. Motioning Theresa to take a seat and beckoning the other quads in, Jack looked through the scrap book. "Yes, I shall tell you everything. But first, let your Dad have a look at this fine piece of work. What do you think of this Colin?" "My word, this is fantastic!" Sgt Ferris nodded with enthusiasm. "Has it all been for nothing Dad? I mean if the patient murdered poor MR Cartwright, I don't think he deserves this scrapbook and if Mr Cartwright had lived, I would have thought of him as my father and I would hate to have thought of my father as murdered!" Before Jack could reply, Sgt Ferris spoke. "My dear, I don't believe you and your sisters have wasted any effort in this work! It should prompt a few memories for this man and hopefully it should give the late Mr Cartwright some justice." "And it may help with his recovery, he must stand trial for his crimes. He has to be in a fit state of health." Without another word, Theresa smiled at her father and Sgt Ferris and handed over the scrapbook. She did not want to hear any more about the patient, in her mind he was already tried and convicted. Sadly Theresa had her faults too. She was by no means perfect and she started to nurse a grudge against Paton. Nor did she tell her sisters the foolhardy scheme she was dreaming up. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Sat Nov 24, 2007 5:23 am ] |
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She's like her mother then, dreaming up foolhardy schemes! Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sat Nov 24, 2007 11:06 pm ] |
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Silly girl - she should at least give the man a chance to defend himself. Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Miss Di [ Fri Nov 30, 2007 3:52 am ] |
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Fatima wrote: She's like her mother then, dreaming up foolhardy schemes!
And rushing in and doing things which put her life in danger without a thought perhaps? |
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| Author: | Phil [ Sat Dec 08, 2007 12:57 am ] |
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"But we are quads! We always go together!" "I just need some space Len!" "Why? Can't you talk to us?" "Of course I can Con!" "Then you can tell us! Come on and spit it out! A problem shared..." "Is a problem halved, I know Margot; and try not to say 'spit it out' you know the Abbess and Auntie Nell are downstairs having Kaffee und Kuchen with Mum!" Margot looked worried; she had a loud voice and the Abbess had sensitive ears. "Oh allright then!" Len was slightly grumpy now. Theresa gave her quads a quick kiss and then leapt into her father's car to join him up at the San. Each of the quads had an arrangement at the weekends to help Papa in his study at the San. It was a quiet environment for them to study in and Jack enjoyed the company of his daughters. During the holidays, the boys would get their turn to go with Papa to the San. It was Theresa's turn to go with Jack, but the other quads had noticed she had been preoccupied of late. Theresa now knew every inch of the San, like her family. There were places she obviously didn't go, like the operating theatres, but she knew where they were. By a process of elimination she had also found out where Paton was recuperating. Some emergency had taken Jack out of his study and Theresa took the opportunity to slip down to see Paton. She looked through the circular window at the man propped up in bed. She knocked and the door and entered. "Mr Paton?" "Well! What's a nice looking lady like you doing in a place like this?" "I am Dr Maynard's biological daughter, but I believed my mother was a Nurse Cartwright whom you knew on Guernsey, then you knew the man I thought was my father, Richard Cartwright." Paton turned pale. "Do you remember a Nurse MacLean? Your girlfriend at the time?" It was all too clear Paton did remember. Meanwhile Jack was listening with incredulity to a patient's relative; a gendarme who had mislaid his gun in the San! Jack had assumed Theresa had gone to the toilet or for a breath of fresh air or a drink. He had no idea his daughter was in danger. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Sat Dec 08, 2007 6:55 am ] |
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| Oh no! I hope she's going to be ok.
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Sat Dec 08, 2007 8:25 am ] |
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The cliffs keep developing. Thanks Phil
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| Author: | Simone [ Mon Dec 10, 2007 4:04 pm ] |
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Thanks, Phil |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Mon Dec 10, 2007 6:10 pm ] |
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Uh oh! Thanks, Phil. |
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| Author: | Billie [ Mon Dec 10, 2007 9:37 pm ] |
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I always like to see an update of this wonderful drabble. But I don't like the sound of this latest turn of events... |
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| Author: | Phil [ Thu Dec 13, 2007 12:33 am ] |
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Mary Theresa Maynard's short life flashed before her eyes as she was suddenly staring into the barrel of a gun. Paton grabbed Theresa and snarled at her. "My Nancy! Yes! Nancy MacLean, she couldn't stand that pathetic Mary Cartwright, such a naive, unsuspecting, trusting fool! Always whingeing and whining, and too truthful by half!" "That's no way to talk about the woman I thought was my mother for fourteen years! She was loving and caring and she would have gone on to be an excellent nurse!" Theresa bit Paton. "Do that again and I will shoot!" he screamed. Theresa believed him. Suddenly she felt very cold and very vulnerable. "I am not going back to England with Ferris! I will not hang!" Theresa wanted to say, "You will" but that gun was very worrying. Paton grabbed Theresa. "I am taking you to the Austrian border, I can get out that way. You are my hostage." Again Theresa wanted to answer back; but her courage failed her. She had hoped to launch into a diatribe against this man who caused Mary and Richard Cartwright such heartache. Theresa had some things to get off her chest. Right now, she was completely stuck in a terrifying situation. There was nothing she could do. Screams dried in her throat and her brain was numb with shock. Paton walked her to the door. "Is that Jem Russell still around?" he sneered. Theresa nodded. "My Uncle, Sir James." "He's another one I could have had a pop at! He nearly got me and Nancy sent to the stone jug!" "Leave my Uncle alone! Please! I've only just been reunited with my family! You've destroyed the Cartwrights, you needn't start again." "Oh yes I do! Nancy and I never never had your opportunities in life! Not the ones afforded to Russell and Maynard, or Cartwright!" "So this is down to petty jealousy?" Theresa felt a surge of spite. The gun pressed closer to her and Theresa wondered if she had crossed the line. "Watch your tongue Madam! I give the orders!" "S..s...sorry" Theresa choked on the word. Suddenly an idea occurred. Hadn't Dad mentioned that in his delirium Paton regretted killing Cartwright? Couldn't she talk her way out of this? "Mr Paton sir." "That's better! Some respect! What do you want?" "May I know what exactly happened to Richard Cartwright." Paton paused. "There was a struggle. He wanted to give me a thrashing. I had the gun loaded. I only meant to scare him. I don't want to hang! I never meant to kill him, just protect myself!" "Is that true, sir? Were there any witnesses who could help you?" Paton shook his head. Suddenly he became suspicious. "Hey! I wanted to get out of this place, you'd better be leading me to the exit!" Fear flashed through Theresa's blue eyes! "Of course! The fire exit is just on the left at the end of the corridor!" Perhaps Paton could tell the poor girl was sweating with fear or maybe he understood the German for emergency exit as "Notausgang". He saw the sign on the door and appeared satisfied. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Thu Dec 13, 2007 12:36 am ] |
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Brave girl. Thanks Phil. |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Thu Dec 13, 2007 5:25 am ] |
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Poor Theresa 
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| Author: | Fatima [ Thu Dec 13, 2007 5:38 pm ] |
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I hope someone comes to her rescue soon. She's in a dicey situation here. |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Thu Dec 13, 2007 6:23 pm ] |
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This is not a good sitiuation for her to be in! |
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| Author: | Phil [ Mon Dec 17, 2007 12:44 am ] |
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With so many juniors and middles twisting their ankles at school, Theresa did a perfect act of hurting herself. "Ow" she squealed. Paton grabbed her. "My ankle! Please leave me Mr Paton sir, I would only slow you down and you can make good your exit!" Paton seemed to consider this and was taking his time. Theresa made the decision for him. She pushed him with all her might throught the emergency exit. He fell over the iron staircase into a rubbish tip below where he was knocked unconscious. At that moment, Jack Maynard rushed to grab his eldest out of danger and cuddle her as tightly as he could whilst Colin Ferris arrested the villain Paton. Theresa burst into tears. "Dad, I am so sorry! I am so sorry!" "Home!" was Jack's only word. He was immensley relieved his daughter was allright, but he was choked with emotion. Her confrontational and wilful behaviour had put herself in danger, perhaps she too like Margot and Mike had to learn the value of obedience. Back home Theresa was put straight to bed and given a little something to help her sleep. "Why do they do it Joey? Have all the kids got this wilful desire to put themselves in danger?" "Jack! Calm down! I'm afraid it's something they have all inherited from me, we shall just have to deal with it as best we can." "That man could have shot her!" "I know Jack and we can thank God he didn't. What's done is done! I imagine her Ladyship will be feeling very sorry for herself on the morrow and her siblings will let her know of their unvarnished opinions of her. They all feel let down by her." Theresa was uncomfortably aware of this when her brothers gave her the silent treatment the next day and the rest of the quads were distinctly reproachful in whatever short conversations they had with her. "I'm sorry!" Theresa must have said this a dozen times! "We know." said Con. "Don't you realise we could have lost you?" asked Len. "And after we had only just found you!" finished Margot. The repentant quad was forgiven by teatime, but before that she had endured such a lecture from her parents that left her as quiet as a mouse for a fortnight. Fun as life was with her proper family, She couldn't help but wonder if there was any other family that had so many hair raising adventures as the Bettany / Russell / Maynard families! |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Mon Dec 17, 2007 8:04 am ] |
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Thanks Phil, this has been fabulous (and yay I get to comment first! )
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| Author: | PaulineS [ Mon Dec 17, 2007 2:59 pm ] |
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Thanks Phil glad she lived to tell the tale. |
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| Author: | Fatima [ Mon Dec 17, 2007 3:33 pm ] |
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Phew! I'm glad she was all right. Thanks Phil, I've enjoyed this enormously. |
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| Author: | Jennie [ Mon Dec 17, 2007 3:37 pm ] |
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Thank you, Phil I've loved this. |
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| Author: | abbeybufo [ Mon Dec 17, 2007 3:58 pm ] |
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This has been great fun Phil - thanks! |
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| Author: | leahbelle [ Mon Dec 17, 2007 6:07 pm ] |
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Thanks, Phil. A great end to the tale! |
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| Author: | Miss Di [ Tue Dec 18, 2007 6:57 am ] |
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Thanks Phil, a vastly entertaining story! |
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