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Rix Bettany's Schooldays Finally finished 20/11

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#1: Rix Bettany's Schooldays Finally finished 20/11 Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu May 11, 2006 11:58 am
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"Don't want to go to school!"

"Come along now Rix. There's a war on! You will have to do as you're told my lad! Come on! for King and country!"

"No Auntie Joey."

"Do you want to stay in Miss Burnett's class forever?" Joey asked with a glint in her eye.

That did it!

Rix Bettany was all prepared for his first day at Armiford prep. The truth be told, and he would be the last to admit it, was he was nervous about leaving his family and the relative comfort of his twin sister Peggy. He had ruled the nursery until now (and despite heated objections from his small cousin Sybil) and now he would be at the bottom of the school.

At Kindergarten, he had been in Mary Burnett's class and Mary had described him as an "Unruly, truculent and rumbustious little boy" in his worst moments. Mary had come from a strict family and ruled her sisters with a will of iron. Her heedless sister Kitty regularly came in for some very unpleasant criticism. Mary did have younger brothers, but she was a lot older than them and as such, did not really understand them.

Rix had spent a lot of time standing in the corner of Miss Burnett's classroom and did not want to return there. Maybe school would be better. But there would be no Peggy!

Peggy was very excited about going to the big Chalet School at long last. Rix had heard of so many adventures there. It wasn't fair! For once, he wished he was a girl so he could go and have adventures at the Chalet School. On one occasion, he told this to Peggy and she laughed herself sick! Uncle Jem, worried for her health had made inquiries to the cause of the laughter and Rix's secret was out! Oh the teasing he had had to endure! Especially from Sybil! On the last day in Kindergarten, Miss Burnett had smiled at him in a very unpleasant way and said something about getting a Chalet School uniform ready for him.

By this stage the teasing had got to be too much and Auntie Joey had come to the rescue. She took Sybil to task in no uncertain terms warning her that if she kept trying to make Rix cross, she would have Auntie Joey to deal with.

"Do you want to talk to Uncle Jem?" asked Joey.

Rix took this as a proposed punishment if he did not cooperate. Joey saw the fear in his eyes. Going to Uncle Jem meant more than was bargained for!

"Oh Rix! I didn't mean like that! I meant I'm sure he would tell you about his first schooldays just to help you!"

Rix calmed down.

"Yes please Auntie Joey."

Rix finally put his brand new blazer on. It was a couple of sizes too big, but he had been assured he would "grow into it" and he headed for his Uncle Jem's study.

Last edited by Phil on Mon Nov 20, 2006 8:50 pm; edited 74 times in total

#2: Author: eamlunt,

Posted: Thu May 11, 2006 12:17 pm
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This looks fun! Poor lad having a blazer so big - I am sure all parents do it though and being war time even more so!

Beth

#3: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu May 11, 2006 12:18 pm
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They do seem dysfunctional, don't they? Thanks, Phil.

#4: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu May 11, 2006 1:18 pm
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"Please Uncle Jem, what was your first day at school like?"

Jem was taken aback. He eyed his nephew for a second or two, then roared with laughter.

He informed young Rix that as he had been born in the latter years of Queen Victoria's reign and spent his early years in South Africa before war service and medical school, he couldn't really help. However, he did tell Rix a story about Zulus and the herds of wild gnus which ranged across the African continent.

Apart from the Zulus and the gnus, Rix left his uncle's study none the wiser about school. Maybe Uncle Jack could help? No. Uncle Jack was in France and Auntie Madge was taking her sister home.

Presently, he heard a spiteful voice.

"Ah is sissy Rixxy missing his Chalet School uniform?"

Rix glared at the perpetrator of this comment.

"Go away Sybil! I'm sure Uncle Jem can hear you!"

"He can't! Bet he's not even in his study! It'll be good when you're at school. Hope you stay there forever and don't come back. Not that you belong here like David and me! You're only a cousin..."

Sybil was about to break into one of her taunts when a huge pair of arms scooped her up and hauled her off to receive some paternal justice. Rix smirked as he heard the squeal of the guilty Sybil, caught red handed as she was, she was not enjoying what her father had to say to her.

Rix's mind wondered to his parents in far away India. What were they doing now? Would they be thinking of him and Peggy?

Rix did not know this, but Dick and Mollie Bettany were thinking of their children all the time.

#5: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Thu May 11, 2006 3:39 pm
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Thanks Phil, I'm glad Jem heard Sybil's comments. She's a nasty piece of work isn't she?

Kathryn

#6: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu May 11, 2006 6:21 pm
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The big day arrived and Rix the rumbustious was at the wrought iron gates of Armiford Prep.

Auntie Grizel had secretly given him some boiled sweets to share. Grizel had a soft spot for Rix, David and Jackie. She felt she related better to boys. Her no nonsense approach at Kindergarten had tamed Rix where Mary's iron discipline had failed. Grizel had never felt confident around other women and often considered herself a bad specimen of humanity. Despite Madge's protestations to the contrary, she always believed she was the worst Head Girl of the Chalet School. However, she was amused by the boys and made great friends with Rix. She told him to be brave on his first day.

It was not a good start. First years were meant to arrive later in the day and Rix arrived at the appropriate time. Unfortunately he got lost on his way to the assembly hall where he was meant to go. The prefect meant to be looking after the first years had mysteriously disappeared to have a cigarette.

Thus Rix got lost, and because he was a tall lad, he looked older than his age. Someone was bound to mistake him for a senior boy. Somebody did.

Mr. Clive Donald was not in a good mood. His mother was sick and because of his diabetes he could not serve in the armed forces where his brothers were serving. He was a just man, but a stickler for discipline, so when he saw a senior boy wondering out of bounds, he exploded.

"What are you doing? Why aren't you in class? Fine start to the term! You're coming with me to the Headmaster!"

This tall red faced angry young man towered over Rix, who for all his bravado at home was terrified and promptly burst into tears.

Within seconds Mr. Donald saw what he had done. He did not recognise this boy. He was so obviously new and completely terrified. Mr. Donald cursed himself as a bad tempered blockhead.

"I'm sorry. I didn't realise you were new. Forgive me. Didn't the prefect take you to the assembly hall?"

Rix shook his head. "No sir, there was no prefect there. Honest. I was worried I might be late, so I tried to find the assembly hall myself."

Mr. Donald made a mental note to have words with the prefect responsible.

"Well, suppose I take you to the Hall myself."

Mr. Donald took the now calm Rix to the Hall where several bedraggled and nervous looking boys awaited. A bemused senior master looked up.

"Ah, Mr. Donald! With one of our missing flock!"

Then in an undertone, he murmured, "Clive these first years are wandering all over the place! I told Reynolds to look out for them. Where is he?"

"Your guess is as good as mine Dave. I found this young man near the Head's garden. I'm afraid I scared the living daylights out of him. I thought he was a senior boy and yelled at him. Don't worry, I'll take Mitchell and Wolff and see if I can find any more straying sheep."

"Very good Clive. If you find Reynolds, send him to me." Dave Smythe sent his colleague on his way. For a brief moment his expression indicated that Greg Reynolds was in for a rough time when he deigned to surface.

Mr Smythe started his introduction when all the first years were finally assembled. No sooner had he got past his "Welcome to Armiford Prep" when he saw out of the window, a fox faced boy with a sneer and great flared nostrils slink over a wall. Mr. Smythe rushed to the window, to the astonishment of the first years.

"REYNOLDS! BOY! COME HERE AT ONCE!"

The Foxy Reynolds slunk into the Hall, giving an evil stare to the first years.

Mr. Smythe was livid.

"You owe each and every one of these first years an apology! Why did you not do as your Headmaster instructed and wait to escort the first years to the Hall?"

Silence from Reynolds.

"Very well, you can see me about this later. But first I want you to apologise to one boy in particular."

Addressing the first years, he said "Which boy was brought in by Mr. Donald?"

Rix bravely came forward. "Please sir, Me sir."

"This young man got severely reprimanded, on his first day, because of your neglect of duty sir! He had barely been here an hour! Apologise to him at once!"

Reynolds' round hazel eyes blazed with fury and contempt and his nostrils flared.

"I'm sorry young man." Then addressing the first years he said, "I'm sorry all of you."

He was then dismissed. Seething with rage and he vowed he would get even with that kid with the black curly hair before long!

From his point of view, Rix was still shocked by Mr. Donald's outburst and he could see the prefect did not mean any word of his apology. Greg Reynolds had scored a black mark in the books of Richard Bettany and Rix knew he must be on his guard.

What sort of world had Auntie Madge and Uncle Jem sent him to?

#7: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Thu May 11, 2006 6:40 pm
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Oh no Sad

Poor Rix, I hope he settles in okay. I don't like the look of that Reynolds boy and I hope it doesn't spell too much trouble for Rix.

Thanks Phil

#8: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Thu May 11, 2006 6:46 pm
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Somehow I feel that Rix will be up to the task of putting Reynolds in his place, perhaps aided by Grizel! Looking forward to seeing what Reynolds does next.
Thanks, Phil.

#9: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Thu May 11, 2006 8:30 pm
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Sorry Phil, was that Reynold or Reynaud? Very Happy

#10: Author: Liane, Location: Manchester

Posted: Thu May 11, 2006 10:16 pm
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Oh poor Rix! Thanks Phil

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

Posted: Thu May 11, 2006 10:41 pm
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*g* at Lyanne

Thanks Phil - poor little Rix, so lost and scared.

#12: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu May 11, 2006 11:03 pm
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Rix spent a pleasant day getting to know his new classmates. Since there was no prep that day, they had extra time to write letters. Rix knew the importance of writing leters, even for reasons of courtesy. He didn't like letter writing as a rule, because he had so many to write. There was always a weekly newsletter he and Peggy put together, lately with help from Bride. This was sent to their parents in India.

There were always Christmas and birthday thank you letters to Aunite Hilda, Auntie Nell, Auntie Con, Auntie Grizel, Auntie Juliet and a great deal more including Austrian and French brevet uncles and aunts.

He knew he had to send a letter to Uncle Jem and Auntie Madge. That was his top priority, but for once he was relieved to find time to write to Peggy. He missed her terribly. He didn't know how much until they were separated. She was only a few miles away, unlike Dad and Mum, but he felt very lonely. At least Peggy had the comfort of Daisy at the Chalet School. In fact, Peggy was in a far happier state than her brother at that moment.

Before he knew it, Rix was writing reams of notes to Peggy. What the school looked like, what it smelt like, the food, the dormitory, the classroom. Suddenly, the letter was snatched off his desk. He looked up to see the evil leering face of Reynolds.

#13: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Thu May 11, 2006 11:35 pm
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Poor, poor Rix. What a cliff to leave us on Phil!

Thank you Very Happy

Kathryn

#14: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 4:04 am
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Poor Rix, this doesn't look good. Phil, you are remarkably prolific at the moment! Thank you.

#15: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 7:44 am
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The wicked prefect had endured a painful encounter with Mr. Smythe.

Secretly Mr. Smythe had wondered why the Head had made Reynolds a prefect. It was simple. The Head was in reality a weak man whose family connections had got him the post of Headmaster. He was also in thrall to rich powerful men like Mr Justice Reynolds KC and his exceedingly attractive wife.

Reynolds had been instructed to look after the first years and Mr. Smythe had reinforced that order. Reynolds had disobeyed, so he received six.

Reynolds wanted a focal point for his anger, and it fell upon Rix Bettany.

"Well, well, well. If it isn't old Donny's blubber boy. Written your letter kiddy?"

Reynolds saw the letter to Dr & Mrs J Russell, then realised the boy was writing an extra letter.

"You are only permitted to write one letter! This must go on the fire! There's a war on! Paper must be saved!"

Rix grabbed at his letter.

"That's a letter to my sister. Give it back!" he yelled.

"Give his letter back you pig!" shouted tiny Robin Morris. Little Robin received a smack on the head for his pains. Reynolds read the letter,

"Dear Peg,

Hope you are well. What a change from the Chalet School in Austria!"

"Wait a second!" growled Reynolds. He scanned the letter and saw plenty of German sounding references: Tante Marie, Spartz, Innsbruck, Onkel Reise.

"You're a nazi spy!" shrieked Reynolds

"I am not!" screamed Rix. "I was born in India and sent to live with my Aunt who had opened up a school in the Austrian Tirol because my other Aunt was not very well."

"Liar!" shouted Reynolds. "Come on boys! How many of you have fathers, uncles and brothers fighting Hitler out there? This little beast has come to spy on you! Traitor!"

Rix was horrified to see doubt and suspicion flow across the faces of his fellow classmates. Hot tears ran down his face. He wanted to go home. He wanted his mother and father, he wanted his sister. He leapt at Reynolds and punched him on the nose and ran out into the cold night.

#16: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 8:17 am
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A reasonable conclusion for Reynolds to come to, although I do think Rix might be a little young to be a spy! I hope he doesn't come to any harm out in the night all alone. Thanks, Phil.

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

Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 8:27 am
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Well done Rix for punching him - can't be easy. Worried though - if the headmaster is so weak and easily influenced. As for Rix being a spy - he's only about 8 isn't he? More likely Reynolds just wanted an excuse.

Thanks Phil.

#18: Author: Rosy-Jess, Location: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth

Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 9:06 am
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What a nasty boy. And good on Rix.

#19: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 11:17 am
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I'm enjoying writing this. I am drawing on a lot of my own prep school experiences here. I was at constant war with one prefect in particular, I did get shouted at by mistake on my first day resulting in tears! Also during the Falklands War, whilst arguing with said prefect, he called me a traitor who should be sent to Argentina. Charming Fellow. I had such nice things to say about him too.
Rix stumbled out of the school gates. Reynolds followed. Rix could hear his angry voice.

"Bettany! If you don't come back at once, you'll get such a Head's flogging! I shouldn't wonder if you'll be expelled!"

Rix nearly gave in. He didn't know that Reynolds wouldn't really take him to the Head. Even the weak willed Head would investigate why Rix had absconded. However, Rix was frightened and cold. Then a torrential downpour broke forth. Rix was very quickly soaked to the skin. He was not going back to school!

He stumbled down the high street not thinking where he was going. He had to get away from the bully. He got some strange looks from passers by including comments suc as,

"Hey sonny, shouldn't you be in school?"

"Where's your father little boy?"

Suddenly he saw a policeman in the distance! Oh no! They would surely take him back to school! He bolted down a side road and ran into someone coming out of a restaurant.

"OOH! You silly child!" scolded Grizel, then she recognised Rix.

#20: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 11:44 am
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For about the first time ever, I am pleased to see Grizel turn up! I hope she can help Rix.

#21: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 12:07 pm
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Thanks Phil. This is very interesting.

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

Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 12:17 pm
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Definitely hope that Grizel can help Rix - at the very least she can reduce Reynolds to the size of an atom! Expect she can do the same to the weak Head! Laughing

Thanks Phil

#23: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 1:28 pm
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For a brief moment, Rix thought of escape, he slipped and cut his knee in the gutter. Bitterly trying to fight back tears, he staggered up. By now Grizel had caught hold of him and practically carried him inside the restaurant.

Grizel asked the head waiter if there was nurse available and if not could she have some hot water and towels. Any bill could be directed to her at the Chalet School.

There was no nurse forthcoming. So, Grizel set to bathing and bandaging Rix's knee herself. She was very proficient and had an excellent memory for what she had learnt at guides.

Grizel had just seen her father to bed in the rooms above the restaurant. He was very ill, but still pursuing his career as a barrister. She had been leaving to return to the Chalet School, when she had encountered her brevet nephew.

Once the boy's knee was bandaged, she looked him in the eye and said in a firm, but gentle voice. "Tell me all about it Rix." It was as if she were head girl once more, helping a distressed junior whose world had apparently ended.

All the details came pouring out. Mr. Donald's error, Reynolds' bullying and neglect of duty.

"And he called me a traitor Auntie Grizel! And I'm not a traitor!"

"No I know you're not. Now I've got to get you back to school. And don't worry! I shall explain this in full to your Headmaster. You do trust your Auntie Grizel don't you?"

Rix nodded.

"Auntie Grizel?"

"Yes?"

"You don't think I'm a coward do you? for running away?"

"No." said Grizel quietly. "I believe you were pushed too far. You had endured as much as you could take, it was only your first day at school."

Grizel thought of the time she had absconded from the Chalet School.

"I'll see your Matron gives you a hot bath and sends you to bed."

On entering the gates, Grizel sniffed at the whiff of cigarette smoke. A figure peeped around a stack of bins. Rix recognised the foxy features.

"That's him Auntie Grizel!"

"Skulking amongst rubbish, like a true coward!" thought Grizel.

"He's lying in wait for you. Let's lie in wait for him!"

Before Grizel could stop Rix, he had wandered in and Reynolds pounced.

"Bettany! I am so going to look forward to the beating you are going to get! But first, you little Nazi..."

He raised his cigarette to extinguish it on Rix.

In a second a furious "Click click" of Grizel's footsteps were heard, her eyes blazed with incandescent rage and she descended on Greg Reynolds.

"Coward! How dare you treat my nephew like this! How dare you! I've heard everything about you! Do your parents know you smoke? Does your Headmaster? I'll larn you allright young sir! Take that!"

And with a well deserved box on the ear, Reynolds was imprisoned in the iron grip of a furious Grizel.

Grizel Cochrane was not a tall woman like Joey Maynard. Nor was she particularly stocky, but the cowardly Reynolds was truly terrified of this scolding fury! She was well and truly roused.

"Take me to your Headmaster at once!" bellowed Grizel.

The commotion brought Mr. Smythe out to demand an explanation of the noise.

"Madam, please, if you could calm yourself, may I be of assistance? Mr. David Smythe, senior master, at your service."

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

Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 1:32 pm
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Go Grizel!!! Laughing

#25: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 3:51 pm
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Wooo! Good for Grizel Very Happy

Thanks Phil!

Kathryn

#26: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 4:27 pm
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Good for Grizel! Let's hope Reynolds gets what he deserves for this.

#27: Author: Kat, Location: Kingston-upon-Thames/Swansea

Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 4:43 pm
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Woohoo!! Go Grizel!! Very Happy

#28: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 5:57 pm
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Thanks, Phil. This is really great so far. I'm sorry that Reynolds is being so horrible to Rix but I'm glad that Grizel has stepped in.

#29: Author: Rob, Location: Derbyshire, England

Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 9:08 pm
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Grizel! Grizel! Go Grizel Embarassed

maybe the hand movements were too much? Embarassed

This is great!

#30: Author: RuthY, Location: Anyone's guess

Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 9:32 pm
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Good for Grizel. Thanks Phil

#31: Author: Liane, Location: Manchester

Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 9:32 pm
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This is fantastic, thanks Phil.

#32: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Leeds

Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 1:03 pm
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Good for Grizel! Poor Rix, I certainly don't envy him at the moment.

#33: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 1:04 pm
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Grizel took a deep breath. The gentleman seemed reasonable enough and he eyed the wretched Reynolds with barely concealed contempt!

"I have known this boy since he was a babe in arms. As a Kindergarten teacher I was responsible for him and I am a great friend of both his Aunts whom he lives with whilst his parents are in India.

I was astonished to find him running away from school on his first day on a cold wet night and soaked to the skin. As you see he fell and cut himself. I've done my best for him, but he needs a bath and bed.

I did ascertain the reasons behind his absconding. It appears this young man (and Grizel eyed the unhappy Reynolds with displeasure) has been bullying him. He even called Rix a traitor because he had lived in Austria. He found this out by stealing one of Rix's letters from him to his twin sister where he mentions Austria. I then saw that little monster attempt to extinguish a cigarette on Rix! You can see the cigarettes in that boy's pocket, sir!"

Mr. Smythe listened with cold rage to Reynolds' crimes. He wrenched the cigarettes from Reynolds' pocket. The cad of the sixth form shrank back. He had never seen "old stinker" Smythe in such a mood!

"Well boy? What have you to say?" Smythe roared. Thinking to himself that the Headmaster must take action now, he carted Reynolds to isolation in one of the sick rooms to await his fate.

A tired and cold Rix was sent to bed and at Grizel's insistence, the work shy matron had given him a hot bath. Grizel rolled her eyes at the matron. Just wait until she told matey about this lack of care! Unfortunately the matron at Armiford prep was so slack in her duties, the only treatments she ever gave were a couple of aspirin. That was her remedy for everything. Grizel thought of matey, the late Margot Venables and some old chalet school girls now training as nurses, amongst them Joyce Linton and Kitty Burnett. Both girls would be admirable school matrons reflected Grizel. At length, Mr. Smythe returned for Grizel.

"Now Miss er..."

"Cochrane, Grizel Cochrane. I am music mistress at the Chalet School."

"Thank you Miss Cochrane. The Headmaster is ready to see you now."

"Thank you Mr. Smythe." and with a graceful smile, Grizel was escorted to the Headmaster's office.

"I'm looking forward to this! What sort of man appoints a bully as prefect?"
thought Grizel to herself.

#34: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 2:46 pm
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This is great, Phil. May we start shouting for more?

#35: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 3:12 pm
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I can see Grizel making mincemeat of the Head! Thanks, Phil.

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

Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 3:12 pm
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Good for Grizel - don't think the Headmaster stands a chance! Laughing

Thanks Phil.

#37: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 6:14 pm
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The Reverend Godfrey Hale MA was not looking forward to this interview. He had been roused by his efficient senior master to speak to a an outraged relative of a boy.

Rev Hale sighed. Why couldn't Smythe deal with it? Hale was a lazy man who left literally all the running of the school to his efficient senior master.

Hale was content merely to enjoy the trappings of power and fill his head with ideas of his own self importance and socialising with important, wealthy parents and their glamorous wives.

However Hale had been told the facts of the case in no uncertain terms and practically ordered to take action. Hale disliked this as he disliked Smythe. Especially as the culprit concerned was Gregory Reynolds. Hale was obsequious in courting Mr Justice Reynolds and practically worshipped Mrs. Reynolds. This caused great antagonism between him and his own wife, Sally. Hale had personally appointed Reynolds to the post of prefect to please the boy's mother. Little did he know Mr Justice Reynolds felt it a foolish decision. His wayward son was not cut out to be a prefect.

The staff had protested over Reynolds' appointment, but Hale remained obstinate.

His thoughts were interrupted by a whiff of perfume and a young lady whose look and manner of dress said one word, "Power."

"My dear Miss Cochrane. Please take a seat. Thank you Mr. Smythe, you may go."

"If you please Headmaster, I should like Mr. Smythe to remain present. I have found him a great support and he explained to me that this boy Reynolds failed in his duty to look after the first years today."

The smile disappeared from the Head's face. He was cornered now, but he felt it still worth it to sweet talk Grizel with his charm. He had a very high opinion of his charm with the ladies. However, he was making Grizel's skin crawl and she was about to give him a rude awakening!

"Some wine Miss Cochrane?"

"No thank you Headmaster."

The Head was about to say, "Please call me Godfrey", but a look from Grizel made even he stop.

"Very well Miss Cochrane. I'm sure Reynolds only went to the toilet for five minutes when he was meant to be collecting the first years, and unfortunately your nephew arrived at the wrong moment..."

"He was gone for three quarters of an hour sir!" This from Mr. Smythe.

Rev Hale shot his deputy a look.

"It is only the first day of term..."

"Well he should have been extra careful to obey his duties"

"As for the alleged bullying, well, boys will be boys..."

"I am intrigued sir as to why you should take bullying so lightly, when our country is fighting the biggest bully on the continent!"

"Miss Cochrane I think you should understand your nephew did assault Reynolds..."

"AFTER he snatched Rix's letter and teased him and tried to make out the poor boy was a traitor!"

"Perhaps litle Rix was a little overcome by his first day at school, and maybe he exaggerated to you..."

"He would not have run like that unless he were terrified and severely provoked! I have known that boy from a very early age!"

"I understand Miss Cochrane that you are not a blood relative of him and that you have no children of your own, if you were a teacher, you might understand that children, particularly little boys may make comments of a dubious veracity..."

This was too much for Grizel.

"IF I WERE A TEACHER! Let me tell you sir, that not only was I educated at a very good school, I was also Head Girl there and latterly a Kindergarten mistress, I am currently a music teacher there! I believe I have some understanding of children whether boys or girls and as for doubting Rix's truthfulness, let me assure you his family have brought him, his brothers, sisters and cousins up to be the most truthful children I have ever known!"

The Rev Hale smirked at Grizel's outburst.

"Which school was that? I'm sure they don't condone violent outbursts."

Grizel flushed. She had made a fool of herself again! Why hadn't she contacted Madame straight away? Fool! Her feelings of low self esteem flowed through her body. She cursed herself. She couldn't be trusted to deal with this.

"The Chalet School." she muttered.

Her words had a devastating effect on the Rev Hale.

He went white and clammy.

"The Chalet School? Started by Miss Bettany?"

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

Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 6:49 pm
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Don't think Grizel has done anything she should be ashamed of here - I'd have smacked the smarmy git! Glad the name of the School has deflated him!

Thanks Phil.

#39: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 7:08 pm
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I agree with Lesley wholeheartedly. Grizel should have more confidence in her own abilities.

Thansk Phil

#40: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 9:01 pm
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The reputation of the Chalet School had spread far and wide in the circles of education. Not only was it every girl's dream to be a pupil there, but many women teachers harboured similar ambitions!

The Reverend Hale was aware of the academic, sporting and pastoral prowess of the Chalet School. Such organization and efficiency. It was a school the more weak Headteachers envied, whilst others admired.

If the story of Rix's treatment got back to Mrs Russell, Rev Hale's incompetence would be exposed! He was also painfully aware that the current Headmistress of the Chalet School was one Hilda Annersley, MA.

The name of "Annersley" carried great weight in the Anglican community and the Rev Hale remembered how the late Bishop Annersley regarded him in a less than favourable light. Bishop Annersley was all too aware of Hale's laziness, pride and lust. As the Bishop pointed out, these were three of the seven deadly sins!

Rev Hale had been shunted from parish to parish, always attracting complaints. Finally, he had been farmed out to Armiford Cathedral Prep where the Church of England hoped he could do no harm and would fade away.

Hale panicked. What if Miss Cochrane told Hilda Annersley about Rix's first day? The humiliation of it! He could almost see Miss Annersley's disparaging look (so like her late Father) of "I'm not surprised!" Maybe she would complain to the Bishop of Armiford!

"Miss Cochrane, please forgive me. The truth of the matter is I awarded the post of prefectship to this boy to make him take responsibility. Perhaps that was an error of judgement."

Grizel snorted.

"I have put myself in a most invidious position. I dare not take action against a boy whose father is chair of the governors and justice of the King's bench!"

"Nevertheless Headmaster, some action must be taken..."

Grizel paused. A Justice?

"Not Mr Justice Oliver Reynolds?" she queried

"Yes Miss Cochrane."

"My Father knows him! Mr Henry Cochrane KC."

From what meagre time Grizel spent with her father, she knew his eminence grise was Oliver Reynolds. It was known throughout the courts of the land that Oliver Reynolds and Henry Cochrane were old enemies!

A brief thought of telling her father of this little incident flashed through Grizel's mind. It might amuse him to know Reynolds' son was a cad and that she, Grizel Cochrane had been his nemesis. On the hand, it might anger her father, who would feel he might want one last chance of getting back at Reynolds! In any case, Henry Cochrane was very ill. No, Grizel did not want to provide her father with another battle to fight.

Rev Hale had heard the name of Henry Cochrane before. He certainly did not want such a powerful lawyer to intervene, including the forces of the Chalet school and probably the Church!

He caved in. Perhaps he was showing some modicum of common decency.

"Miss Cochrane. I shall release Reynolds of his prefectorial duties permanently. I intend to inform his father and I shall have him brought here to apologise to you at once. He shall also apologise to Richard Bettany."

"Mr. Smythe, would you be so good as to bring the boy here?"

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

Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 9:13 pm
—
What a wimp! Love that he knew Hilda's father! Laughing

Thanks Phil.

#42: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 9:50 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. I'm glad that Grizel has stood up to Hale.

#43: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 12:16 am
—
Good for Grizel! I just hope that Reynolds won't hold Rix responsible and take it out on him...

Thanks Phil!

Kathryn

#44: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 9:07 am
—
Hello, Reverend Hale? The new boy's name is Bettany. He has connections with the Chalet School, started by Miss Bettany. Gosh, that's coincidental!

#45: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 10:23 am
—
The cowardly cad was brought to Rev Hale's study by a cold Mr. Smythe. He need have no fear of that old fool Hale!

Reynolds gave his most charming leer to the Headmaster as he entered, but froze as he saw a vengeful Grizel. Suddenly this meeting did not look pleasant. Surely the Head wasn't going to discipline him in front of this witch? He decided to get in there first.

"Good evening sir, my father says the new gym equipment..."

"BE SILENT! You are insolent boy!" snapped the Headmaster.

"I am relieving you of your duties as a prefect of this school with immediate effect. This shall be on a permanent basis. I have heard the whole story of your neglect of duty and bullying from Mr. Smythe here and from Miss Cochrane. I understand Miss Cochrane's father knows your father? He too is a King's Counsel."

At this bad news, Reynolds cowered. He only knew of one King's Counsel by the name of Cochrane. It was a name his father hated. If father found out that old Cocky's daughter had caught him bullying! He shot Grizel a look that was mixed with fear and anger. Grizel stared back at him with a cold expressionless face.

"You will make your apologies to Miss Cochrane and Mr. Smythe this instant. In the morning, you shall apologise to Richard Bettany for the harm you have caused him."

Reynolds nodded. He was beaten now.

"I shall be writing to your parents to tell them of this whole sorry incident. I shall also inform them of your smoking. I intend to cane you for the smoking straight after breakfast tomorrow. Report to me at 8am sharp! Now make your apologies and go!"

Reynolds mumbled his apologies. He saw the cold nod of acceptance Mr. Smythe gave him. As he apologised to Grizel, he saw a look of contempt mixed with pity.

The Rev Hale gave Grizel a cautionary look.

"I trust that was sufficient Miss Cochrane?"

"Thank you, Headmaster. I really must depart now. I do hope I haven't missed the last bus!"

"Don't worry, Miss Cochrane, I shall drive you straight back to the Chalet School."

This gallant offer from Mr. Smythe was speedily accepted. The Rev Hale still made Grizel's skin crawl.

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

Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 11:17 am
—
Now that's better! Laughing

Pity that Mr Smythe and Grizel couldn't become better acquainted...

Thanks Phil

#47: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 12:59 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. It was nice of Smythe to offer Grizel a lift back.

#48: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 2:40 pm
—
At last Grizel's father has done something useful! Thanks, Phil.

#49: Author: Pado, Location: Connecticut, USA

Posted: Mon May 15, 2006 12:34 am
—
Wow, I might even grow to like Grizel after this... Laughing

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

Posted: Mon May 15, 2006 5:02 pm
—
Hurrah! Grizel is brilliant in this.

Thanks Phil

#51: Author: RuthY, Location: Anyone's guess

Posted: Tue May 16, 2006 8:24 pm
—
Grizel is great in this!

Thanks Phil

#52: Author: tiffinata, Location: melbourne, australia

Posted: Wed May 17, 2006 2:49 am
—
Thanks Phil.
Have enjoyed the spirit of the battle this morning!

#53: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Wed May 17, 2006 2:26 pm
—
Lesley wrote

Quote:

Pity that Mr Smythe and Grizel couldn't become better acquainted...

Just what I thought!

#54: Author: Elle, Location: Peterborough

Posted: Wed May 17, 2006 2:38 pm
—
Grizel kicks butt!

Thanks Phil.

#55: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sat May 20, 2006 5:41 pm
—
It was rising bell in the dormitory. For a moment Rix did not know where he was. The door was flung open and a voice bellowed,

"Come on! Up! Up! Up! Rising bell my young fellows!"

A brisk draught of cold air flowed through the dormitory provoking shivers and hisses from the twelve sleepy heads of the first form. Each boy was still mildly disorientated and their baby faces showed that they were still half asleep. Then they remembered something from last night.

"Hey! It's that boy from Austria!"

"Wow! Where did you run away to?"

"What happened?"

"Were you caned?"

"Who brought you back?"

"Did Reynolds find you? He said he was going to kill you?"

"He said the Head will birch you!"

Rix shuddered as his classmates discussed what form of corporal punishment was meted out to him and whether or not it had hurt.

"A friend of the family brought me home and Reynolds got punished, not me. He's a beast and my Auntie Grizel made sure he would get punished.
I wasn't caned or birched or flogged! No marks! See? And I am not Austrian, I am English. My Dad and Mum are in India, my Auntie used to run a school in Austria, but we were kicked out by Hitler!"

The boys turned back to their washbasins and dressing, mildly disappointed. It was not that they meant Rix any harm, but it would have been nice to have had someone who had battle scars on them so they could show him off!

Suddenly a commotion was heard outside the dormitory and a group of burly fourth formers burst in.

"Hey get out!" began a first former, only to receive a smack on his head for his pains.

"Which one is Rix Bettany?" bellowed the ringleader.

Eleven pairs of eyes rested upon Rix.

"I am. And I don't think you should have smacked Bailey's head like that!"

The fourth formers were silent.

"First formers are not permitted to speak unless spoken to!" roared a very stupid looking fourth former.

"But you did speak to me." said Rix.

More silence. Fortunately, the ringleader burst out laughing.

"He's got you Cohen! The nipper's got you! And it looks like Reynolds will be out for your blood Bettany! He's gonna get you! You watch your back! He's been sounding off about you, because you got him sacked as a prefect! Ha! Ha! Ha!"

The ringleader took his ape like acolytes away, leaving Rix very worried.

Rix's form mates were amazed! To get a prefect sacked on the first day! Here, obviously was some sort of superman!

They bustled down to breakfast, interrogating him with persistence. He was offered to sit next to eleven different people, offered extra jam and bread, but poor Rix could not eat.

As he filed away to his classroom after breakfast, he passed someone. He did not see who it was.

All of a sudden he heard the rush of running footsteps behind him. Rix swung round, his eyes horrified to see the flaring nostrils, gritted teeth and vengeful face of Gregory Selwyn Reynolds, his eyes wide, ready for the kill!

#56: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sat May 20, 2006 5:53 pm
—
Poor Rix, it's not really the ideal start to a school career is it! I hope Reynolds doesn't do anything nasty although I can't help wibbling rather.

Thanks Phil

Kathryn

#57: Author: Liane, Location: Manchester

Posted: Sat May 20, 2006 5:54 pm
—
Shocked

Poor Rix! School is not going well for him is it!

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

Posted: Sat May 20, 2006 6:41 pm
—
Oh dear, not a good person to meet. Must admit though, I'm impressed at how he stood up to the Forth Formers. Laughing

Thanks Phil.

#59: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sat May 20, 2006 7:43 pm
—
Reynolds now had little Rix in his grasp! Oh how he was going to make the boy suffer! The cruel, lingering, painful, humiliating punishments he had in store for Bettany would give him endless pleasure and allow him to exact his revenge!

Rix was like a frightened rabbit in the grasp of an owl or a snake.

"Let me go!" he remonstrated.

"I am going to make your life miserable Bettany! You are going to wish you had never been born!"

Reynolds prepared to do his worst, when all of a sudden there was a collective shout of,

"BUNDLE!"

It was the fourth formers. The ringleader, a boy named Latham and Cohen , Collins and Davis all charged Reynolds to the ground.

"Run you idiot, run!" exclaimed Cohen to Rix.

Rix needed no second bidding. He sped to his classroom and only just managed to arrive on time before his teacher Mr Reid was there.

The fourth form made tracks too! Oldfield was on the lookout for any teachers and warned of Mr. Smythe on the warpath. Reynolds was left rolling in the dust. He received five hundred lines of Virgil for conduct unbecoming a senior.

Meanwhile, Rix was rapidly becoming a star in his class. Mr Reid, whose subject was English, was a man who favoured different teaching methods. He was a strict but just man, and started to get to know his form by making them introduce themselves.

When it came to Rix's turn, he felt a pang of emotion when he mentioned the name of his twin, Peggy. How he wanted her here! She was allright at the Chalet School. Daisy would look after her.

Little did Rix know, Peggy was in tears in Miss Annersley's office explaining why she was out of her bed past bedtime and how she got herself locked into an air raid shelter! Poor Peggy thought she would be expelled, but was let off with a caution. She was thinking the same thing. How she wished Rix was with her in Miss Annersley's office. He would probably have volunteered to take the full blame.

#60: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sat May 20, 2006 8:19 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. How did Peggy get herself locked in an air raid shelter, please? I'm glad that Rix has won the approval of the other boys in his Form and he has won the Fourth Formers around as well.

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

Posted: Sat May 20, 2006 9:17 pm
—
So glad those Fourth Formers were looking out for Rix. Poor Peggy - what on earth has she been doing? Laughing

Thanks Phil.

#62: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sat May 20, 2006 9:28 pm
—
Phew, Rix had a lucky escape there! Thanks Phil, Peggy and Rix are so lovely. They must have hated being parted.

Thank you, I'm really enjoying this!

Kathryn

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

Posted: Sat May 20, 2006 9:30 pm
—
Hurrah for those 4th formers.

Thanks Phil

#64: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 11:45 am
—
The next few weeks passed steadily. Rix showed a natural aptitude for maths, whilst Peggy did not.

Whenever Reynolds appeared, the same burly group of fourth formers appeared as if by coincidence.

Then a new boy appeared.

Miles Whingemore-Well was a brat of unprecedented arrogance. He was also a mean little bully. He was no respecter of authority and regularly questioned or contradicted whatever people said. He failed to see why he should live without luxuries because there was a war on and he rarely saw his parents. His life had been spent in the company of a permanently exhausted, overworked nanny from Burma. The poor woman had tried to instil discipline into him, make him think of other people and use table manners, but the brat's manipulative nature and lies wore that good lady down.

However, Miles was to meet his nemesis and lifetime arch rival in Richard Geoffrey Bettany.

Rix led his coven into class after morning break. He had been entertaining them with an amusing story of his Auntie Joey slipping down a wet garden path and ending up in mud. Auntie Joey had then to sneak back into the house to get changed, but Uncle Jem and a distinguished visitor had just seen her!

Then they spotted Miles, a lofty air of discontent on his face as if a bad smell was present. Rix decided to make the newcomer welcome.

"Hello new recruit! What's your name? I'm Bettany, Rix Bettany, that's Teddy Bailey, Robin Harris, Alan..."

"Why are you addressing me? Do I know you?"

Rix and class were shocked.

"Just introducing ourselves, we can see you're a new bod. " said Bailey.

Miles shot him a look of contempt.

Before Rix could berate the stranger, a fully gowned Mr Reid entered. He had just come from a staff meeting which had really tried his patience. He loathed staff meetings as it was often an excuse for a dreary sermon by the Rev Hale and not the productive meeting it should be regarding the running of the school.

As a rule, it was believed Mr Reid had an abundant supply of patience. This was to change.

"Sit down boys! Come along, hurry up! Now as you see, we have a new boy , please welcome Miles Whingmore-Well...BETTANY! Why were you laughing?"

"I'm sorry sir." a chastened Rix mumbled.

"What was the joke?"

No reply. Mr Reid smacked his hand on the table.

"WHAT WAS THE JOKE?" he roared.

Alarmed, Rix blurted out the truth.

"I found his name funny sir!"

Mr Reid's expression was grim. It was Miles' turn to smile.

"Come out to the front Bettany." he said coldly.

With trepidation, Rix obeyed.

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

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 12:13 pm
—
Oh dear, think Rix is about to be caned Shocked

(But I'd have laughed too Laughing

)

Thanks Phil.

#66: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 12:41 pm
—
Thanks Phil, it's good to see that Rix is starting to settle in well despite the punishment I fear he is about to receive!

Thank you Very Happy

Kathryn

#67: Author: Kat, Location: Kingston-upon-Thames/Swansea

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 2:09 pm
—
Please don't cane him Phil!

Thanks for all the updates Smile

#68: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 2:22 pm
—
But how can you not laugh when confronted with a name like that?! Thanks, Phil.

#69: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 2:56 pm
—
"I see you find the new boy's name funny, young man." said Mr Reid grimly.

Rix turned a bright shade of red.

"Please sir, I'm very sorry and I'll tell Miles I'm sorry too."

"I think that is a good idea. You don't want to be writing out five hundred lines of latin this evening do you?"

Rix looked shocked. He did not want to be doing such a tedious punishment! Especially when he and his friends were planning a bug hunting expedition.

At least Mr Reid hadn't caned him!

Rix apologised to a smug looking Miles.

"I'm sorry I laughed at your name."

Miles paused. Then he decided to push matters further.

"I don't accept your apology. I can see you are a silly child who has been dragged up out of the gutter. I suggest you go back there at once."

Before the enraged Rix could respond, Mr. Reid intervened.

"You would be well advised to accept his apology like a man Whingemore-Well! And I will not have my lessons disrupted by insolent little boys, whether they are new or not! That is your first and last warning! Now you can apologise to Bettany for that slur on his family!"

"What? me apologise to him? Make up your mind!"

This was too much insolence. Mr. Reid took the cane from his desk. At the sight of the thin yellow / white wood all the boys shrank back in horror. Miles sat looking defiantly at the advancing Mr. Reid.

In a second he was pulled from his desk and received the first thrashing of his life. He bawled like a monster.

"Stop that noise boy!"

His resistance broken, Miles Whingemore-Well whimpered back to his desk. Just wait until lunch break! Just wait.

Throughout the lesson, Mr. Reid saw the apprehension in the boys' faces. Some started to panic over difficult sentences in their composition exercises. Mr. Reid was merciful with them. He did not mean to frighten the innocent by caning, but that boy Whingemore-Well was now a marked man with Mr. Reid.

---------------------------------------------------

Lunchtime came: soggy cabbage, soggy potatoes and a barely cooked scrap of gammon. After this unappetising meal, Miles Whingemore-Well went to seek his second cousin twice removed.

He found that sympathetic ear and poured out his woes.

"And that beast Bettany made fun of my name...I don't see why I should apologise...It's all that beast Bettany's fault..."

"So, you are saying Bettany bullied you?" asked Gregory Selwyn Reynolds!!!!!!!

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

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 3:14 pm
—
Hmmm, well they are well suited then, aren't they!

#71: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 3:24 pm
—
Oh, poor Rix; I don't like the idea of these two combining forces against him.

#72: Author: Kat, Location: Kingston-upon-Thames/Swansea

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 3:24 pm
—
Uh-oh... Confused

#73: Author: Elisabeth,

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 9:15 pm
—
Oh no! *wibbles for poor Rix*

#74: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 9:31 pm
—
Oh dearie me, Miles was really not the right person for Rix to get on the wrong side of...

Thanks Phil!

Kathryn

#75: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 10:13 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. I'm sorry that Miles is related to Reynolds.

#76: Author: tiffinata, Location: melbourne, australia

Posted: Mon May 22, 2006 1:57 am
—
One big sh*& and one little sh*&

#77: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Mon May 22, 2006 8:43 am
—
There was a letter for Rix the next day! Two of his own acolytes, the two Robins (Harris and Morris) brought him his epistle.

"Is it your birthday Rix?" asked Alan Cryer.

"No." grinned Rix. "It's from my sister Peggy."

Peggy had written a mini novel to her brother.

Dear Rix,

Sorry to hear you have had such a pig of a time with that beast Reynolds. I tried to ask Auntie Grizel if you were allright. She said you were, but didn't give me any details! Mind you, I did ask her during my music practice, which was not a good time!

I went exploring on my first night at the Chalet School. Remember in Ireland when we went exploring around Grandpa's house in the middle of the night? It was such fun!

Anyway, this time I got outside and fell down what I thought was a hole. It was an air raid shelter which had just been dug! Some earth fell on me and I thought I would be buried alive. Luckily Auntie Nell heard me scream, but I had to face Auntie Hilda in the morning! She was so frightening! I thought she had turned into a monster. I tried to look at her eyes, but they were so terrifying!

The letter went on about how Josette and the triplets were growing, how Sybil was still a spiteful nuisance, David was missing Rix and how Bride and Jackie were. Peggy finished off by saying,

Our half terms are the same time! Except mine's a day early! Auntie Madge said I could come and collect you and I can see your school! You've seen the chalet school here.

Rix felt a glow of excitement.

"It looks like you're going to meet my twin folks!" he added with pride.

Unfortunately, malicious Miles overheard and went to inform his lord and master.

--------------------------------------------------------

The wonderful day came and Rix looked at the clock with barely concealed excitement. When the last lesson finally ended and Mr. Reid wished his class a happy half term, Rix ran out to the drive. There was the distinctive black car of Uncle Jem! But oh no! No! No! No! Disaster! someone was helping Auntie Madge and Peggy out of the car! It was Reynolds!

The monster was on to his family!

#78: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon May 22, 2006 11:54 am
—
Another cliff to cope with; thanks, Phil.

#79: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Mon May 22, 2006 3:02 pm
—
I bet Reynolds will be really charming to them, the pig. I hope Rix manages to enjoy half term anyway.

Thanks Phil Very Happy

Kathryn

#80: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Mon May 22, 2006 3:19 pm
—
Just as long as they don't invite Reynolds to come and visit during half term!

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

Posted: Mon May 22, 2006 7:43 pm
—
I would hope that Madge is far too astute not to see through Reynolds - and hopefully Grizel has kept her up to date with what's happened.

Thanks Phil.

#82: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Mon May 22, 2006 7:51 pm
—
Gregory Reynolds was all smiles as he wished Madge Russell a good afternoon. He then shook hands with Peggy! That made Rix's blood boil! How dare he! How dare he! It was bad enough him crawling to Auntie Madge, but how dare he lay a finger on his twin sister!

In blind fury, Rix ran at the foxy villain with the intention of knocking him over. However he succeeded in tripping over his shoelaces, skidding on the gravel and several gravel stones scratched Uncle Jem's car!

Madge was cross about this. It would take a tremendous amount of persuasion to stop Jem from punishing Rix with the utmost severity. But Rix was too emotional. He hadn't realised how much he had missed his sister. Sometimes her maternal personality got too irritating for him and he would push her away, but he would feel ashamed of himself for that.

In a strained voice he protested, "Leave Peggy alone!"

"My little friend Rix! I was only saying hello! I wasn't going to hurt her! As if I would do such a thing! Please excuse him Mrs Russell, he has been missing his sister and the poor little fellow has had a rough time settling in. I do my best to look after him, but he will get into such naughty mischief!"

This was all a tissue of lies! Utter lies!

"Auntie Madge!" pleaded Rix.

"Enough Richard! In the car, now!"

Rix got into the car and buried his face in his hands. His was in the pit of despair. Auntie Madge was cross with him, Uncle Jem was going to be very cross with him, a letter might be written to Dad, he would be even more cross! And to top it all off, there was a war on! In silence Madge drove away. Peggy was unsure what to say. Her brother was in tears and Auntie Madge had a face like thunder.

Rix was sent to his room on arrival at the Round House. He was allowed to speak with no one. Sybil had seen him return and gave a contemptous taunt of "Cry baby Rix! Cry baby Rix!" A furious look from Madge soon quelled her daughter.

Madge was about to read Rix's school reports, expecting tales of mischief from exasperated teachers and records of detentions and worse, when suddenly she was interrupted by a maid who announced that a Mr. Cochrane had arrived whilst she was out and insisted upon seeing her.

Madge immediately went to the drawing room to meet Mr. Cochrane. She was shocked to see the once tall, muscular barrister with jet black hair and a thick moustache now a gaunt, white haired stooped figure. She noticed the pain etched on his face and realised he was dying. But what had he come to tell her?

#83: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon May 22, 2006 8:43 pm
—
Poor little Rix, so much misunderstanding.

#84: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Mon May 22, 2006 8:49 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. I'm sorry that Rix wasn't given a chance to explain what had happened. I wonder what Mr Cochrane is going to say.

#85: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Tue May 23, 2006 9:01 am
—
"Mr. Cochrane! This is an honour! Please sit down! How may I help you?"

"Mrs. Russell, Madge, I wanted to say, before it is too late, how grateful I am for all you have done for Grizel."

"Please carry on Mr. Cochrane."

"I have many regrets in my life. The biggest of which is not making more of an effort with Grizel. It hurts to realise my daughter values me so little, but I brought it upon myself. Recently she tried to protect me.

I had a letter of apology last week from an old rival, Oliver Reynolds. He was apologising on behalf of his son bullying your nephew Richard. Apparently Grizel had something to do with stopping the bullying. I don't know what, I suspect she won't tell me. Reynolds seems to think Richard is Grizel's nephew even though he knows I only have one child! His grasp on reality was never brilliant!"

Mr. Cochrane permitted himself a chuckle which turned into an alarming rasping cough. Madge rushed forward, but Mr. Cochrane held up his hand.

"Grizel didn't tell me! And I know why! She didn't tell me because she knows I am dying. She doesn't want to upset me by mentioning the name of Reynolds in my presence. She doesn't want me to be in pain! After all that I've done to her! Or rather haven't done to her and she stopped a bully! She protected your nephew and stopped a bully! Old foxy Reynolds knows his son is bad news, but I fear your nephew may be in for a rough time at school

Please mention none of this to my wife, she will only find it another excuse to point out Grizel's failings. I shall be joining Grizel's mother shortly and the last things I want to know and feel about my daughter are good things."

Madge helped Mr. Cochrane out to his car and went thoughtfully inside. A quick look through Rix's reports showed he had been settling down well. She had thought he was deliberately trying to cause trouble with that boy. That boy's name was Reynolds! Madge was furious now. That odious child had made sure he would be as nice as pie to her and Peggy, just so Rix would react like that! Oh why hadn't Grizel told her?

Then Madge remembered. She had barely had time to reach the school recently, and Grizel had been trying to make an appointment to see her, several times! The telephone was down and staff sickness had meant Grizel had been unable to find time to speak to Madame. On the one occasion she might have had time, Joey had pushed in front and cheekily said, "Do you mind? She's my sister, not yours!" and slammed the door in Grizel's face! Really Josephine could be too childish at times!

Madge went up to her nephew's room.

#86: Author: Elle, Location: Peterborough

Posted: Tue May 23, 2006 11:05 am
—
well, I was about to post a rant about the Russells parenting techniques, and whist I am still in a ranty mood at least Madge knows the truth now! But if only they had asked Rix why he was behaving so out of character, but know, in the grand tradition of the Russell/ Bettany/ Maynard school of parenting they get angry and punish...

Grr...

#87: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Tue May 23, 2006 11:43 am
—
Thanks, Phil. I'm glad that Madge has realised what really happened. I'm sorry that Joey was so rude to Grizel at that point.

#88: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Tue May 23, 2006 1:47 pm
—
Poor Grizel and Rix. At least Madge finally knows the truth now Very Happy

Kathryn

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

Posted: Tue May 23, 2006 5:14 pm
—
Well I'm pleased that Grizel's father has finally realised what a wonderful; daughter he has, so glad he was able to speak with Madge. Hope Madge is feeling exceptionally guilty about the way she treated poor Rix - and will make it up with him. Also hope she speaks seriously to Joey - stupid jealousy there, and thanks Grizel!

Thanks Phil.

#90: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Wed May 24, 2006 2:19 pm
—
Giving Madge a cold look for automatically thinking the worst of the boy she has brought up. And for not snubbing Joey when one of Madge's employee's wanted to speak to her.

#91: Author: Liane, Location: Manchester

Posted: Wed May 24, 2006 7:14 pm
—
Selfish, selfish Joey! At least Madge knows the truth now.

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

Posted: Thu May 25, 2006 4:45 pm
—
Stupid Joey!

Hope Madge will take time to talk to Grizel now.

Thanks Phil

#93: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu May 25, 2006 10:41 pm
—
Madge was heartbroken at Rix's despair. She cursed herself for leaping to conclusions and for not being more accessible to her staff.

It took a long time and plenty of apologies to console Rix and she promised she would tell Uncle Jem that the scratches on the car were caused by gravelstones as she drove into the school.

She then telephoned Hilda Annersley and asked if Grizel could come over and speak to her at once. Grizel agreed with alacrity. She knew Rix was home and she was keen to tell Madame all she knew.

Ten minutes later, a car rolled up. Madge looked hopefully out of the window.

It was Joey. Madge's heart sank.

"Hail fellow, well met!" cried Joey.

"Joey Baba, it's nice to see you. I'm expecting Grizel shortly."

"Ooh, what's she been up to now?" giggled Joey. "Are you going to sack her?"

"She has been very helpful recently Joey and I wish to commend her."

Joey broke into hysterics.

"Madge don't! Grizel! Helpful! Ha! The two words don't go together, unless she is helping herself! Ha! Ha! Ha! Oh Madge I have got to see this, this is priceless!"

In desperation, Madge took some flowers out of a vase and threw the water in Joey's face.

"There!" said Madge satisfied.

"Madge! What was that for?"

"Josephine, Grizel is a member of my staff. She was also my choice as Head Girl. I know you two do not get along, you are very different characters, but that does not give you the right to treat her with contempt or as a joke, which you so often do. There are many things about Grizel's life which only I know and every time I speak to amember of staff, you do not automatically have the right to butt in and pass judgement. I know Grizel is difficult, but it is no exaggeration to say the Chalet School is Grizel's lifeline! It keeps her on the straight and narrow, a battle she finds very difficult. In future, you are to leave Grizel well alone! Do you hear?"

The astonished Joey nodded, just as Grizel walked in.

"Good afternoon Madame! Why, hello Joey! Why is your face all wet? It's a lovely sunny day!"

#94: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Thu May 25, 2006 11:54 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. I'm glad that Madge told Joey the truth. I wonder if Grizel overheard the conversation?

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

Posted: Fri May 26, 2006 12:12 am
—
Good, Joey was really inexcusably rude there and deserved that! Laughing

#96: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Fri May 26, 2006 5:26 am
—
Well done, Madge! Jo got what she deserved there all right!

#97: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri May 26, 2006 11:54 am
—
Someone else handing Jo her needings!

#98: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Fri May 26, 2006 3:24 pm
—
Good for Madge! Thanks Phil Very Happy

Kathryn

#99: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sun May 28, 2006 12:20 pm
—
Neither Joey nor Madge offered an explanation to Grizel as to why Joey's face was all wet. Instead, Joey sheepishly went to tidy herself up and visit her nephews and nieces.

Grizel meanwhile, had been explaining exactly what had gone on between her and the Rev Hale.

"I did wish to speak to you earlier Madame, but with one thing and another..." Grizel finished apologetically.

"Well, I think you have done a sterling job Grizel and I am very proud of you. I'm sure your father would be too if he knew." Madge added.

Grizel felt embarrassed at the praise. Her own low opinion of herself made her feel she never deserved praise, partly a result of her upbringing. Sensing this, Madge continued.

"I met this young man Reynolds. I must say he was all charm and good manners and that is what upset Rix so badly! Rix knows what he is really like."

Grizel nodded. "Madame? I felt the Headmaster was distinctly lacking in any authority. It was my impression he was there to enjoy the trappings of power and leave the running of the school up to Mr Smythe, who seems a very capable man."

Grizel's blunt honesty had hit the nail on the head, and Madge couldn't agree more.

"Yes, Jem was not satisfied with Hale, but this is the best option for school for Rix at the moment. So we shall just have to keep an eye on Rix, I'm afraid. It is quite strange how Jem came striding in one day after looking round the school and said to me, 'That man Hale has completely unsold the school to me!' Then there was a phone call and two personal visits from Mr. Smythe which persuaded Jem otherwise!"

Madge laughed.

"Well, thanks again for that Grizel, I knew I could rely on you."

"Thank you Madame" and as if she were Head Girl once more, Grizel curtsied and departed.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

Half term was a pleasant affair for Rix. Until Wednesday. Rix often wondered why bad things occurred on Wednesday. Practically the whole day was given to Latin! Why, he did not know. Even on half term, Wednesdays were a problem. He had to go into town with Auntie Madge to go shopping. She needed an extra pair of hands and Rix had been volunteered. He was planning to spend the day reading back issues of "The Magnet".

Anyway, all was well, until Auntie Madge had sent Rix to get some boiled sweets as a treat for his siblings and cousins. He knew Auntie Madge would wait for him by the sweet shop.

The shop was an old tudor affair, bordering the river, which also had a functioning water pump and horse trough. Rain had filled the horse trough and Rix gazed into the depths of the trough. Suddenly, a rough pair of hands grabbed him and he was in the trough. The next thing he knew was he was being dunked several times.

There were shouts and screams and Rix heard an exclamation of "Oh you wicked, wicked boy! Leave that poor child alone!"

Rix got out, drenched and on the verge of tears. Mrs Waites the sweet shop owner took him inside to get dried. There were two other dominant powerful ladies with tremendous voices who took it upon themselves to mother the waterlogged Rix. In all honesty, Rix wasn't sure whether to be scared of them or of the thought of what his Auntie Madge would say.

Then he saw a furious looking Auntie Madge accompanied by a policeman. In the policeman's steel grasp was a squirming, foxy Reynolds who looked suspiciously wet!

#100: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun May 28, 2006 12:48 pm
—
Poor Rix, he must have thought he was safe on half term. I'm so glad people saw what happened *pokes Reynolds lots*

Thanks Phil Very Happy

Kathryn

#101: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun May 28, 2006 1:05 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. I'm giving serious consideration as to whether to add a poking facility to a slapping stick.

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

Posted: Sun May 28, 2006 1:17 pm
—
Oh good, glad Reynolds was caught - perhaps now his time at School will be a little easier. Laughing

Thanks Phil.

#103: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun May 28, 2006 1:43 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. I'm sorry that Reynolds turned up while Rix was on halfterm.

#104: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Sun May 28, 2006 9:43 pm
—
Glad Madge is there to save Rix from the old ladies! I hope they've got umbrellas to poke Reynolds with.

#105: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Mon May 29, 2006 11:01 am
—
"IN MY DAY..." boomed the large stout, venerable old dame who had been mothering Rix with all the strength of a boa constrictor,

"IN MY DAY, SUCH DELINQUENTS AS THAT YOUNG MAN WERE SEVERELY PUNISHED BY LAW!"

Rix winced. Grateful as he was for being dried and comforted, he wished the elderly lady didn't speak with such volume all the time!

The unhappy Reynolds cowered as the two elderly ladies bore down on him.

"I thank you ladies, did you witness the incident at all?" asked the burly moustachioed police constable.

"Yes constable! I should say we did!" the shrill almost shrieking tones of the second lady rang out and it was only through exceptional politeness that nobody stuck their fingers in their ears. She went into graphic detail about how Reynolds attempted to drown Rix.

Madge intervened at this stage.

"Officer, I should like to take my nephew home and get him out of these wet clothes, I don't want him to catch a cold and I should be pleased to answer any questions you may have for me."

"Er yes of course. Now may I take your name?"

"Russell, Madge Russell."

"Mrs or Miss?"

Madge looked embarrassed. Something important had come for Jem in the post today. She hadn't meant to tell the children yet. Oh dear, this was most awkward!

"Well actually officer, it's a little embarrassing, my husband has been offered a title from the Palace, so although it is Mrs Russell for now, I suppose it should be Lady Russell in the future."

Madge was bright red as her scarf at this point and Rix stared at her with wide eyes! Unfortunately, the two good ladies heard!

"A title! My dear! Don't look so worried! We've been through this before! I am Lady Olga Williamsbury and this is my good friend the Ethelfreda, Countess of Axmore!"

"PLEASED TO MEET YOU!" boomed the grand lady.

As the loathsome Reynolds was bundled into police custody to receive the proverbial "thick ear", Rix was in dazed silence as his Aunt led him to the car.

#106: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Mon May 29, 2006 12:10 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. I love the way that Madge wasn't sure how to answer the question!

#107: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon May 29, 2006 8:37 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. I can just imagine what Jo would say about the two noble ladies.

#108: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Mon May 29, 2006 9:17 pm
—
*giggles*

Thanks Phil, what a pair of saviours Rix found there!

Kathryn

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

Posted: Tue May 30, 2006 11:24 am
—
Those two old ladies were brilliant. I'm really struggling to keep a straight face here!

Thanks Phil

#110: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Tue May 30, 2006 12:21 pm
—
"Rix you musn't tell the others about Uncle Jem becoming a Baronet. I want to wait for the right time."

Rix nodded. Trained to obedience as he was, he promised. However he was so pleased at knowing a secret, he even ignored Sybil that day.

Sybil of course was furious. How dare Rix not react to her baiting him? How dare he!

"You must answer me when I speak to you! Is that any way to behave in front of a lady?" commanded the imperious youngster.

The entire nursery burst out laughing.

"You? A Lady! Oh Sybs, what a joke!"

"Tell us another one Sybs!"

"Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!"

Humiliated, the enraged Sybil flew at the nearest offending relative, her cousin Primula. Bride rushed to Primula's defence whilst David tried to separate all of them.

Madge entered to view the commotion. "What is going on here?" she demanded.

When Madge got to the bottom of the row, she reprimanded all concerned.

"As a matter of fact, I came to tell you that Daddy, Uncle Jem, has been made a Baronet for services to medicine. He will have to go to the palace to meet the King and be knighted. He will be Sir James Russell!"

Gasps of excitement flew around the nursery.

"Please Auntie Madge, will Uncle Jem have to wear a crown and a robe?"
"Don't be silly! Uncle Jem hasn't got a robe!"
"He can wear Uncle Jack's red dressing gown!"
"Will the King be wearing his crown?"
"Can we come too? We'll be good!"
"Mummy would have been so proud of him Auntie Madge!"

This last was from Primula, who could barely remember her late mother, Jem's sister. Madge drew her closer.

"Of course she would darling. I'm sure she knows, up in heaven!"

Sybil had been strangely quiet.

"What do you think of this Sybs?" asked David.

Sybil thought for a moment. Then a nasty grin spread across her face.

"This means Daddy can get rid of all the nasty cousins and get the King to lock you up in the Tower of London and cut your heads off!"

This spiteful outburst earned Sybil a most unpleasant scolding from mother and a sentence of bed for the next three days. She also had to apologise to her cousins and explain herself to her father!

Needless to say, Sybil was not looking forward to her punishment. She even had to hear her Auntie Joey's unvarnished opinion of her when that redoubtable young lady heard of her niece's crime.

Rix himself had an idea. He had been set a homework task by Mr Reid on what the family did during half term. Surely Uncle Jem's visit to the King would be just the thing!

Rix sat down and stared at the blank sheet of paper. He would have to wait until Uncle Jem could tell him aboutt he big day! Mr Reid was going to love this!

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

Posted: Tue May 30, 2006 12:49 pm
—
Thanks Phil - pleased that Rix has something to look forward to.

#112: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Tue May 30, 2006 4:24 pm
—
Primula is lovely in this drabble. Thank you Phil Very Happy

Kathryn

#113: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Wed May 31, 2006 12:49 am
—
Thanks, Phil. It's nice to see such a nice family scene.

#114: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Wed May 31, 2006 11:33 am
—
The news of the baronetcy had been broken! Dick and Mollie sent a charming if short, telegram to Madge and Jem, promising a full letter as soon as possible. An announcement was made in the Chalet School by a beaming Miss Annersley. Grizel was inundated with requests by juniors wishing to know how to play "God Save the King" and Joey started to tease.

At the Round House, Joey was shocked to see a regal looking car pull up and a tall thin lady and a short stout lady emerge.

"Oh my only aunt Semolina!" cried Joey. "It's the Elephant and Castle!"

Joey's reference to the insulting nickname given to King George I's mistresses was not one which pleased Madge. She recognised them as the two ladies who had been mothering Rix after his near drowning.

Joey answered the door before Madge or Rosa. Both redoubtable battleaxes assumed Joey to be the maid and emerged from their coats handing them to Joey.

"INFORM YOUR MISTRESS THAT LADY OLGA AND COUNTESS ETHELFLEDA HAVE ARRIVED ON A SOCIAL VISIT!"

Upstairs, Rix heard the booming tones! Surely the two large ladies would demand to see him? Panicking, he got into his Sunday best, combed his unruly hair, grabbed David's handkerchief and polished his shoes. he slid down the bannisters in time to see Auntie Madge disappear with the two guests into the drawing room. Auntie Joey seemed to be fighting a losing battle with a fur coat.

He was just in time to hear,

"May we see young Richard? Has he recovered sufficiently?" shrieked Lady Olga.

Rix knocked at the door and was bidden enter. Joey followed.

"Ah, here he is! What an excellent maid you have Mrs Russell! Now for tea! Do you have any Earl Grey?"

A wicked thought occurred to Madge.

"Certainly. Josephine, please bring a pot of Earl Grey and do be careful of the best china, there's a good girl!"

Hidden from view of the redoubtable women, Joey pulled a furious face at Madge!

#115: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed May 31, 2006 11:37 am
—
This is so funny, I love the Elephant and Castle *giggles*

#116: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Wed May 31, 2006 12:09 pm
—
And Joey being mistaken for the maid....*giggles*

#117: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Wed May 31, 2006 12:15 pm
—
Thanks, Mia. I love the way that Joey was mistaken for the maid!

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

Posted: Wed May 31, 2006 1:35 pm
—
Payback time!

Thanks Phil.

#119: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Wed May 31, 2006 3:28 pm
—
Laughing

Thanks, Phil.

#120: Author: Liane, Location: Manchester

Posted: Wed May 31, 2006 7:02 pm
—
Fantastic! Keep it going Madge!

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

Posted: Wed May 31, 2006 7:19 pm
—
Oh well done Madge! Laughing

Loved it, thanks Phil.

#122: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2006 12:24 am
—
Brilliant Madge, getting her own back in style!

Thanks Phil!

Kathryn

#123: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2006 11:43 am
—
Rix just had to sit there and smile politely. What a way to spend half term! The two good dragons were clearly terrifying Auntie Madge with their descriptions of their own visits to the palace and the late King's views on etiquette and appropriate court dress.

"AND DO YOU KNOW HIS UNCOUTH SON NEVER INVITED US TO ONE GARDEN PARTY? NEVER!" Countess Ethelfleda was of course referring to Edward VIII.

"A good thing he married that woman and abdicated!" shrieked Lady Olga.

Madge was regretting even more the baronetcy awarded to Jem. Would she be sentenced to mixing with these people? Not for the first time did she wonder what her late father and mother would have done with the noble ladies. She was rescued, oddly enough by Joey with the tea trolley and a recalcitrant looking Sybil.

Sybil had been enraged to hear two aristocrats were in the house and she as first daughter of the house had not been presented to them and did not have the usual compliments of her beauty presented to her. She was furious that Rix was already there, the usurper! She stormed downstairs only to meet a cross looking Auntie Joey. She realised her Aunt was in a bad mood and knew from bitter experience tackling Auntie Joey in this frame of mind was a difficult job.

Joey saw her niece and for once was pleased with her! "Sybs darling! Would you like to come and help me pour the tea for two ladies? We're playing maids. I am pretending to be a maid. All you have to do is exactly as I say."

"YOU ARE LATE GEL!" boomed the furious Countess.

"Tea should be served at precisely three o'clock! It is a quarter past now!" screamed Lady Olga.

Joey put on her best common accent.

"Beggin' your pardon missus! Only I thought you wanted to see your daughter!"

Joey presented Sybil. The two large ladies immediately fell on the presence and worshipped her beauty.

"Such a delicate child!" squealed Lady Olga.

Sybil was puzzled, she like Rix or David could climb the tallest trees, run through rain and cope with thunder and lightning. She then saw her nemesis.

"You!" she declared angrily at Rix. "What are you doing here? Pretending you're David are you? You're only a cousin!"

She flew at Rix, who promptly held the wriggling young lady in his grasp. Then Sybil bit Rix and drew blood. Rix roared and in seconds, Sybil squealed, terrified of her cousins reactions as he pushed her to the floor and rolled her over. Fortunately Joey pulled the pair apart , but not before she had burst out laughing at Madge's horrified face.

"WHAT A DISGRACE! IS THIS THE WAY YOU BRING UP CHILDREN? IN MY DAY, THEY WERE LOCKED UP IN A COLD WINDY GARRETT WITH ONLY BREAD AND WATER AND NO LIGHT FOR A WEEK!"

"As for that maid! She seems to find the whole situation funny! I demand you sack her on the spot!" screamed lady Olga.

"I'm afraid I can't sack her."

"WHAT?!"

"She isn't a maid."

"Whaat?"

"She's my sister!"

And with exclamations that sounded like ancient fowling pieces, the two redoubtable women left, never to be seen again.

#124: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2006 11:49 am
—
Oh dear, I don't know whether to be relieved at that or not. Hilarious, Phil.

#125: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2006 3:40 pm
—
That was so fantastic Phil, absolute genius Very Happy

Kathryn

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

Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2006 4:06 pm
—
Laughing

Poor Rix though - having to suffer through that and Sybil.

Thanks Phil.

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

Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2006 5:34 pm
—
*giggling wildly*

Brilliant! Thanks Phil

#128: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2006 6:17 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. I'm glad that Madge won't have to see the two ladies again.

#129: Author: Elle, Location: Peterborough

Posted: Wed Jun 07, 2006 2:48 pm
—
Thanks Phil. I have just caught up with this excellent story. Any chance of some more please?

#130: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sun Jun 18, 2006 11:03 am
—
Rix Bettany had returned to school after an eventful half term. The snarling Reynolds had warned him that, "Any nonsense from you Bettany and I'll have you birched!"

Rix had laughed at this brutal threat and Reynolds had been bundled into a ditch by the ever present fourth formers.

In class with Mr Reid, Miles Whingemore-Well droned on about his father's cars, his mother's dogs and his aunt's views on public libraries. Miles got a "FAIL" for his holiday work.

It was Rix's turn.

"My uncle visited the King."

Miles snorted and blew a raspberry. One lecture later he was shivering in tears outside Mr Smythe's door awaiting the senior master's judgement. Rix continued.

"My uncle owns a sanatorium for patients with TB. The King awarded him a medal for services to medicine. Only my Auntie Madge went with my uncle to Buckingham Palace. This is what they said.

My uncle was amazed at how short the King was. He also said the King did not look very well and smoked a great deal. The King was dressed in the uniform of an Admiral and spoke with a slight stammer, but he had a piercing stare.

As my uncle knelt to have his shoulders touched with a sword, he felt himself shake he was so excited. It was all over in a few seconds before he heard 'Arise Sir James Russell'

Both my uncle and aunt said how small the rooms of the palace were. All the antiques and paintaings and precious things had been put into boxes and hidden away because of the bombing. Afterwards in the garden party, they met Princess Elizabeth and her corgis. Auntie Madge said the Queen really made her feel comfortable and happy."

Rix continued reading out his holiday work, Jem and Madge had had a difficult time on the train home and Rix had offered a brief insight into Jem's experience at the palace. Rix was not to know the detailed conversation Jem had with Madge over the King's health. Jem had real fears for the King, a heavy smoker, who had only been on the throne three years. Jem knew all the signs of lung disease and earnestly wished the King would stop smoking. Then there was the added stress of the war and having suddenly been catapulted onto the throne.

Rix glowed in Mr Reid's praise! But he was to hear more from Miles!

The brat squirmed up to Rix in the lunch break. "I bet your silly uncle didn't really get a knighthood! I heard you had said the King looked unwell? Not very patriotic is it?" the toad sneered.

Rix smiled. "Enjoy yourself with Mr Smythe? I bet he gave you six! Whinger!"

Miles was still smarting from that particular treatment and launched himself on Rix. A fight ensued. Rix was furious! Why did this boy always goad him? What was Miles' problem? He needed someone to knock some sense into him!

Miles for his part wanted to fight the whole world! He kicked, punched and bit Rix. He then grabbed a clump of earth and threw it at Rix, catching him in the eye and knocking him down.

Then the Headmaster appeared!

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

Posted: Sun Jun 18, 2006 12:57 pm
—
Hmmm, so will the Headmaster do anything? From what I remember he's totally ineffectual.

NB. Pity Jem didn't mention about his thoughts on lung disease and smoking to anyone else at the CS - they all continued smoking. Rolling Eyes

Thanks Phil - good to see more of this.

#132: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Jun 18, 2006 1:06 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. Poor Rix.

#133: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sun Jun 18, 2006 2:15 pm
—
Nice to see more of this, thanks, Phil.

#134: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jun 18, 2006 2:33 pm
—
Thank you Phil, it's great to see this back! Rix's essay was really sweet Very Happy

Kathryn

#135: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Wed Jun 21, 2006 10:41 am
—
Rev Hale almost squeaked with horror at the sight of Miles and Rix rolling over in the dirt, doing their best to punch each other. Rix seemed to be gaining the upper hand, until Miles bit him on the finger. Rix bellowed in rage and was just about to deliver a crushing blow to Miles, when a hand grabbed his raised fist.

"Report to my study at once!" the Headmaster shrieked at both boys. Miles started to cry and Rix simmered with rage. The surrounding boys who had come to watch struck up a reproachful chorus of "ooohhh!!!" and a whispering chant of "The Cane! The cane!" and "Detention! Detention!" started in earnest.

The chanting ceased immediately when the Head suddenly turned on his heel and glared at the assembled boys, who ran like rabbits. None were eager to be willing participants in a flogging.

Within the study walls, Miles was bawling like a baby and Rix was trying desperately not to laugh at both Miles and the Head's hysterical behaviour.

Rev Hale was screaming like the German dictator over the water. "I have never been so disgusted of two boys of this school in my life! How dare you! How dare you! How dare you!"

To Rix it seemed as if this was all the foolish man could say. He burst out laughing. There was a deathly silence.

"You find it funny Bettany?" the Head whispered with an eerie quality. Rix felt a sick heavy feeling in his stomach. Suddenly it wasn't so funny.

The punishment seemed to last ages! In fact it took no more than five minutes and both boys ran from the study to hide separately in the toilets and compose themselves.

They appeared at prep, red eyed. No one looked at them. If a chap had been sent to the Head for a you know what, you don't embarrass him by looking at him or talking to him. You just let him be! It was quite a taboo subject at a boy's prep to discuss that particular punishment. After all, it could be you next!

Miles craved attention and sympathy and when he didn't get some, only bawled until even Reynolds told him to "shut up or be bashed!" Rix was grateful no one spoke about it to him. Unfortunately, the Head took his anger out on Mr Reid who was their form master and what was he going to do about their dreadful behaviour?

Mr Reid was sadly more cross with Rix. The boy was well behaved, a cheerful character in class, polite and a leader. He was starting to get a bit lazy with prep, but that could be dealt with. Miles would amount to very little in life and was no team player. So beyond the scathing words Mr Reid had for him, there was nothing else. Miles didn't care!

When Mr Reid spoke to Rix, he made it crystal clear how disappointed he was with him. Mr Reid was quite a role model for Rix and Rix was so hurt. That beast of a Head had smacked him harder than Dad or Uncle Jem or Uncle Jack ever would, and they could wallop you pretty hard! And Mr Reid was more cross with him than with Miles, and Miles had started it! Rix hated school now and went to the apple orchard to kick up tufts of earth and stamp on fallen branches. He sat and cried tears of anger and frustration! It was Miles who should have got punished! Then a horrid thopught occurred. Mr Reid had said, "If you continue to beahve as you did today, we shall have to reconsider putting you forward for any football teams!"

Rix uttered a wail of despair. He would give anything for some home comfort! Even seeing Sybil again! He wasn't going to be allowed to try for the football team! Oh it was the end of the world!

#136: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Wed Jun 21, 2006 12:01 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. I'm sorry that Rix got told off more than Miles did. Rix's essay was really good.

#137: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jun 21, 2006 4:55 pm
—
Poor Rix, life must seem very unfair to him.

Thanks Phil, it's good to see more of this!

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

Posted: Wed Jun 21, 2006 5:25 pm
—
Poor Rix - that's really rather unfair - was he supposed to just stand there and allow Miles to hit him?

Thanks Phil.

#139: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Wed Jun 21, 2006 7:18 pm
—
Rix didn't care who heard him howl. But he suddenly heard something really rather revolting.

In the time honoured tradition of filth and smut which runs through every schoolboy, the fourth formers were holding a competition as to who could be the loudest in breaking wind.

Now when you are a boy of twelve and haven't a care for social graces, and you are in an all boys school, puerile toilet humour seems incredibly funny! Honest.

"That must be the cauliflower at lunch!" roared Oldfield.

"You animal! it was the carrotts!" bellowed Cohen.

"Who's that crying?" snapped Latham, suddenly serious.

Rix felt guilty! He didn't want the big boys to see him crying again! Why they would think he was a milksop sissy!

"I bet its another of Reynolds' victims! If it is, I vote we bash him and hang the Head if we get caught!" this from Oldfield.

"Reynolds is Hale's fancy boy!" muttered Cohen.

Rix crept away. He so wanted to talk to someone, but he daren't lose face at school! Suddenly he smelt a whiff of cigarette smoke.

Oh no! It couldn't be! Please don't let it be!

It wasn't Reynolds. It was worse. It was one of the two Robins, little Robin Harris. What was the boy playing at? One of Rix's new friends and classmates too! Rix's eyes widened in horror as he saw further along the path the familiar figure of Mr Smythe! Poor Robin would have no chance!

#140: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jun 21, 2006 7:22 pm
—
Oh dear...I hope Rix isn't going to do anything silly like try and be a hero...

Thanks Phil!

#141: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Wed Jun 21, 2006 7:59 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. I'm wibbling about what is going to happen next.

#142: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sat Jun 24, 2006 8:36 pm
—
"Robin, you stupid boy!"

Rix was with his startled friend in seconds. He knocked the cigarette to the ground, stamped on it, kicked it into the bushes and dragged Robin with him.

Mr Smythe was upon them!

"You boys come out of there at once!"

Rix and Robin appeared. Mr Smythe could tell something was up! Robin was terrified and Rix had red eyes from his crying previously.

"What were you doing in there? And don't tell me you were on a bug hunting expedition! I can see from your faces something bad has happened! No lies now!"

Mr Smythe meant to have the truth! He sniffed the air.

"Have either of you been smoking?" He asked in such a cold, calm voice. It sounded very dangerous.

This was too much for Robin. He started to weep. He produced the tell tale cigarettes from his pocket.

"Where did you get these Harris?"

"T...T...Took them from my big brother at half term, sir. He's twenty!"

"You stole them from your big brother?"

Robin hung his head in shame.

"And what about you Bettany? Your uncle is a doctor is he not? I hope you aren't taking up smoking?"

Rix shook his head. He knew exactly how Uncle Jem would deal with him if he was caught smoking! Mr Smythe guessed what Rix had been trying to do.

"Harris, wait for me outside my room." Robin went!

"Bettany, why have you been crying?"

Everything burst forth! Miles' goading, the injustice of Mr Reid's scathing reprimands and the Head's caning. Rix defiantly eyed the senior master, to see how far he could push him.

"And I hate Mr Reid now! I hate school! And I wish I'd never come!"

Rix noticed Mr Smythe was boiling with rage. He realised too late that he had crossed a line and been impertinent to the wrong man, at the wrong time!

"Go to the library and wait for me there boy!" was Mr Smythe's comment.

"Go!" he screamed like a sergeant.

Rix fled. He got to the library. A dark uninspiring cold room, with a badly leaking radiator, a source of endless damp on the vile green carpet. The books themselves were all huge tomes with miniscule sized fonts, no pictures and on such detailed academic subjects! They sat in decrepit, peeling leather binding. The books were locked behind glass doors. However there was no danger of the books ever being used by the boys. It was not an inspiring introduction to libraries!

Rix waited and waited! He knew you had to be especially naughty to go to the library! Rix wondered what an execution cell in a prison looked like! Did it look like the library? He shivered! Mr Smythe suddenly wrenched open the door of the room. Clasped to his chest was a huge blue leather bound book, clearly labelled,

"DETENTION BOOK"

#143: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sat Jun 24, 2006 11:28 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. I am wibbling about what is going to happen next.

#144: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jun 24, 2006 11:52 pm
—
Eeep...poor Rix.

Thanks Phil

#145: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sun Jun 25, 2006 4:11 am
—
Poor Rix, he's not going to look back on his schooldays as the best days of his life, is he. Thanks, Phil.

#146: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sun Jun 25, 2006 8:01 am
—
"IAM NOW GOING TO PUT YOU IN DETENTION!" roared the senior master.

Rix burst into tears. He tried to avoid it, but with Mr Smythe bellowing at him like a parade ground sergeant it really was no use! Rix shuddered to think of what his parents would say! Then there was both Auntie Madge and Auntie Joey, and Uncle Jem and Uncle Jack! Everyone would be scolding him!

Mr Smythe took a deep breath. He was treading a fine line here. Rix's potential leadership skills had to be nurtured not stamped upon. This had to be the making of Richard Bettany. However, Rix had been supremely insolent to his face and he could not let that pass, hence the detention!

Still in an abrupt way, Mr Smythe tried to make Rix understand why Mr Reid had been so harsh with him and why he was going to receive a detention for insolence.

"Why do you think Mr Reid was so cross with you for fighting with Whingemore-Well?"

"I don't know sir!"

"Yes you do! Think!"

"He...He said he was dis...disappointed in me sir!"

"Correct! Now, understand this boy, it is a sign of maturity and intelligence not to lose your temper and to behave responsibly! You let yourself, Mr Reid and your family down by that silly loss of control! You put yourself in the wrong! Mr Reid is furious with you! He has high hopes for you and so do I!"

"Does Mr Reid hate me sir?"

Mr Smythe nearly burst out with laughter!

"Oh don't be silly! But can't you see how hurtful it is when you disgrace people who have a duty of care towards you? What would your uncle saY? or your father if he were here?"

Rix shuddered. The distant memory he had of Dad told him he would be very cross indeed! As for Uncle Jem! Rix could practically see his large uncle become tense with anger and his lip curl as it did when he was cross.

Rix saw what Mr Smythe was trying to say. He didn't mind apologising to the big man. He wanted to. Mr Smythe and Mr Reid were in the "goodies" camp to him. The "baddies" were the Head, Miles and Reynolds.

Back to parade ground mode, Mr Smythe dismissed Rix, informing him he would be in detention this Friday. Mr Smythe heaved a sigh of relief. He hoped he had ironed out that little flaw in Rix's character! It may take reminding occasionally, but he knew Rix was a good boy at heart.

Rix sought out Robin Harris in the school cellar, where the boys went to polish their shoes.

"I got detention. What about you?"

"Smythey gave me a lecture and said he would write to my parents if I was caught again!! I've never been so terrified in my life!"

Rix nodded. "He's a bit like a colonel isn't he? Or a sergeant? Like he's on parade!"

"Colonel suits him better. He is senior master."

Rix agreed, and so Mr Smythe had a new nickname!

#147: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun Jun 25, 2006 11:41 am
—
Thanks, Phil. I'm glad Mr Smythe wasn't too angry.

#148: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jun 25, 2006 1:35 pm
—
Thanks Phil, I'm glad that they are trying to help Rix but I don't blame him for being terrified!

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

Posted: Sun Jun 25, 2006 4:59 pm
—
I don't agree with the way Rix is being treated - how does unfairly treating him and punishing him when he'd done nothing help to make him a leader? All it will do is make sure Rix hides his deeds in future and gives ammunition to Rix's enemies who know they can provioke him but that Rix will be the one punished.

Thanks Phil.

#150: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Mon Jun 26, 2006 6:05 pm
—
Rix had been learning that life in general was unfair. He was quite frankly incensed by the vile cauliflower cheese at lunch. His mood worsened when his letter from Peggy told him that despite a war being on, the Chalet School still managed to cook up a fantastic spread.

He was half tempted to screw the letter up and post it back to Peggy with the words "Try eating this, that's what my food is like!" He knew what sort of reaction that would get. Peggy would only raise her eyebrows in that irritating way and ignore him until he felt lonely and crawled over to her to apologise.

Bailey entered with a grand missive from the Head of Music. (Old Slinky)

"I say Betters! Guess what? Old Slinky is taking the junior choir to Chichester as part of a junior choir festival! Why Chichester is near where I come from! I can show you all sorts of stuff there!"

Rix eyed his enthusiastic classmate with disdain.

"Do you think they will let us loose on Chichester?"

Bailey's face fell. "Oh! Oh I suppose not!"

Rix regretted being so squashing. "Well, you can always tell us about it, point things out. You can be our tour guide. When are we going?"

"Next weekend! We've got choir practice tomorrow night!"

It was Rix's turn to feel miserable.

"Can't go tomorrow, I've got detention! Bet old Slinky won't want a naughty boy in his school trip!"

"At least try Rix! We need a strong voice like yours!"

Bailey's enthusiasm seemed to affect Rix. Surprisingly "Old Slinky" gave no more than a reproachful look as he heard of Rix's detention and said the boy could still come to Chichester. Rix could have jumped for joy with a shout of "Whacko!" but decided against that course of action.

On Friday night, he sat down to his detention. Mr Earle, supervising, was in a bad mood, but that was nothing new. Rix looked at his detention task. It was surprisingly easy! He had to name all the capitals of the world and match them with their countries. This included colonies. There to help him, where Latham, Oldfield and Cohen. All three were experts in geography and Rix learnt more with them than he ever did with Mr Cobllis, the silent geography teacher.

Another week followed and it was nearly the end of term. Christmas was approaching and with it, the junior choir visit to Chichester! The senior choir were to visit Gloucester Cathedral. They had been scheduled to visit Liverpool, but the horrific bombing of that city necessitated a different location.

Bailey was bouncing with joy as he "went home" and had to be squashed on to keep his exuberance in check. If not, Old Slinky might get so fed up with him, that he might leave him behind! Prefects Mitchell and Wolff were to accompany the boys in one minibus with Old Slinky and the Head and another sixth former in another. The Head wished to visit a friend (a woman) in the area and he took his acolyte Reynolds with him.

Rix did not care about Reynolds or the Head. He had got used to them. At least Miles wasn't there! Miles had thought he was an excellent singer, but in reality was so awful, Old Slinky had for once lost his temper and screamed at the boy to "Never darken my door again!"

They approached Chichester, in the dead of night. Rix saw the huge imposing spire of the Cathedral. Bailey told him it had fallen down in the 1800s! Rix wondered what would happen if it fell down now?

The boys were herded into a school dormitory, were they quickly fell asleep.

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

Posted: Mon Jun 26, 2006 7:13 pm
—
Glad Rix's detention went smoothly. Wonder about this woman the head is seeing....? Shocked

Thanks Phil

#152: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Mon Jun 26, 2006 7:37 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. I hope that the trip will go ok.

#153: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jun 26, 2006 8:51 pm
—
Thanks Phil, I love Rix in this Very Happy

#154: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Jun 26, 2006 8:51 pm
—
Thanks, Phil, this looks interesting. I do feel sorry for poor little Rix, he's so young for all this.

#155: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu Jun 29, 2006 9:02 pm
—
Up at the crack of dawn on a Sunday! Rehearsals had been going well. Rix and his crowd had had the joy of seeing Reynolds totally ignored byu all the Chichester school choristers and full boarders! Reynolds was furious and as a result, did not concentrate in the choir practice, for which he was taken to task several times.

Rix loved the old Roman town. They were taken for a walk to see the Roman walls, they went up the Cathedral spire and to a house built in Queen Anne's time! Rix was determined to tell his Aunt Joey about such a historic town. Maybe she could use it in her next book? One of the Chichester boys told him about his own home in Arundel, very near to Chichester. There was a Catholic Cathedral and a huge castle which belonged to Katherine Howard's relatives.

It occurred to Rix that he knew very little of his mother country. He had the vaguest of memories of India, where he was born. He loved the Tirol, until the Nazis came. There was a brief stay in Guernsey and the family were briefly separated as Uncle Jack had to go to war and Auntie Joey was nearly torpedoed at sea with the baby triplets!

The boys were allowed to wander around the Bishop's Palace Gardens too. Rix had a pang of wishing that Peggy and Bride were with him! They would love this garden! Perhaps one day! He bumped into an elderly man in religious clothing. The man had a kind, genial air about him.

"I'm terribly sorry sir!" Rix stammered.

"Don't worry my young friend! Now you're from that school in Armishire aren't you? You've come to sing for us tonight? I shall look forward to that! I'm the Bishop here!"

Rix stared at the man in awe. He had never met a Bishop before!

Rix relaxed as he told the man of the Tirol, India, how he did miss his siblings and cousins and parents and uncles and aunts! Rix told the story of how Auntie Joey had to flee Austria for helping poor Herr Goldman. He also told the man of the sad fate of Herr Marani, and how he was such a kind man. Rix was getting a great deal off his chest. The kind Bishop took an interest and tried to reassure him as best he could. Rix looked at his watch and panicked.

"Oh sir! I'm going to be late for tea! I must get back! I'm pleased to ahve met you sir! Please excuse me!"

The Bishop smiled and waved Rix on his way.

Rix sadly forgot the kind hearted Bishop. However the Prime Minister did not forget Bishop George Kennedy Allen Bell.

Bishop Bell spoke out against the killing of German civilians initiated by Bomber Command in later years. When a new Archbishop of Canterbury was being sought in the late forties, Churchill pointedly turned down the appointment of a true Christian as punishment for his criticism, and appointed the fiercley conservative Geoffrey "Flogger" Fisher as the Archbishop who would crown Elizabeth II. Or at least that's what I was told!

#156: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Fri Jun 30, 2006 4:54 am
—
What a nice bishop! Thanks Phil.

#157: Author: meerium, Location: belfast, northern ireland

Posted: Fri Jun 30, 2006 11:02 am
—
Awww, yay for Rix and the Bish up! It's often little incidents like that that transpire to be significant to someone.

#158: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Fri Jun 30, 2006 11:04 am
—
Thanks, Phil. The Bishop was lovely.

#159: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Jun 30, 2006 1:08 pm
—
I'm glad the Bishop was nice to Rix and understood why he was so sad.

#160: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Fri Jun 30, 2006 3:40 pm
—
Thank you Phil, that was a lovely little scene

#161: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Fri Jun 30, 2006 7:25 pm
—
A simply beautiful festival of song was held in the small but historic Cathedral in Chichester. The younger boys and Rix especially forgot the titles of the famous songs they had sung, much to his Aunt Joey's frustration as she took a great interest in choir songs. The boys were treated to a grand supper and Rix remembered the look of hope and happiness in the eyes of the audience. Even he, a youngster could not fail to be aware of the power of song and the church during this horrific war!

He even felt sorry for Reynolds! That unfortunate villain's voice had broken that very day and he was reduced to the rank of an usher, helping the elderly to their seats.

Reynolds had never forgotten Rix. The brat was like a cork, bobbing up and down in the water! You just couldn't squash him! Reynolds gained some mild amusement when he saw his Head canoodling with a woman twenty years his junior, much to the disapproving looks of the Dean and the Bishop himself! Old Hale really was a fool! No wonder mother and father had such a hold on him! In fact, the Reverend Hale had somehow acquired, during wartime rationing to get his hands on some spirits! He smelt so bad that his lady friend had practically drenched him in her own illicit perfume!

The Dean and Bishop were no fools! A quick letter to the Diocese authorities at Armiford would be all that it would take!

The festival over, the Armiford boys took their leave. Hale foolishly left Reynolds to check the younger members of the party into the minibuses, the senior prefects and older boys were much to busy to notice Rix talking to his new found friends in Chichester.

Half an hour later, Rix turned to his new friends. He had grown bored with the homemade insectarium he was being shown.

"Where are all the boys from my school?" he asked.

Suddenly a bigger boy he did not recognise rushed up to him.

"Hey! You a new bod?"

Rix shook his head.

"I'm with the boys from Armiford Prep." he announced.

The bigger boy stared at him, mouth open wide.

"But they left hours ago!"

An empty feeling crept over Rix. His feeling turned to horror, when he heard an air raid siren.

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

Posted: Fri Jun 30, 2006 9:10 pm
—
Oh poor Rix - and Reynolds and Hale should be shot!!!!

#163: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Fri Jun 30, 2006 9:29 pm
—
Sad

...what a terrible situation for Rix to find himself in. Hope everything somehow turns out okay!

#164: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sat Jul 01, 2006 4:54 am
—
Poor Rix! Those boys are awful. I hope they get the comeuppance they deserve and that Rix gets back to school all right.

#165: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sat Jul 01, 2006 11:51 am
—
Thanks, Phil. I'm sorry that Rix has been left behind.

#166: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Jul 01, 2006 1:58 pm
—
Poor Rix, but I'm sure he'll get home safely.

#167: Author: JackieP, Location: Kingston upon Hull

Posted: Sat Jul 01, 2006 4:42 pm
—
Oh poor Rix - much worse than Peggy falling down the air raid shelter as well.

Thanks Phil

JackieP

#168: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sat Jul 01, 2006 11:30 pm
—
Rix was hustled and bustled down into the school cellars. A few boys and masters looked quizzically at him, but there was no time for questions. The roar of the fighter planes was terrifying and the dull thump of bombs even more so! What if he were killed? In a strange town, without his Auntie Madge or sister Peggy close by? Would they ever find his body?

With such morbid thoughts going through his head, Rix did not see his new found friends explaining Rix's presence to a senior master. The man came over to him.

"Now then young man. Richard Bettany isn't it? I'm Mr Cale, senior master here. You'll be a brave lad for me won't you? We'll get you back to your school soon! Unless if you really like it here..."

His sentence was broken by an earth shattering vibration and explosion. The air was getting thick and hot. Some of the younger boys were starting to whimper. Some were lucky enough to have older brothers present, and those older brothers held onto thewir young siblings with grim stoicism and determination, thinking firmly of their mothers, fathers and sisters.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Back at Armiford prep, Mr Smythe was helping a sickly looking Headmaster out of the minibus. Mr Donald was checking the boys names against the register. "Bettany!" No reply. "Bettany!". Still no reply. "BETTANY!"

"Headmaster, Mr Smythe, we're one boy short! Richard Bettany is not present."

"But all the boys were in the buses! We only stopped off three times, because I was, well I was feeling a little unwell. Travel sickness Mr Smythe. Reynolds told me all boys were accounted for!"

For the first time in his life Rev Hale realised that his trust in the foxy senior boy could lead to fatal consequences. What if the boy Bettany had been kidnapped or seriously hurt, or even killed? What if there were an air raid over Chichester?

Reynolds tried to slink away into some bushes. In a panic, the Headmaster grabbed him. That this boy should have shown him up as the fool he was!

"Reynolds! You assured me! You promised me all boys were present and correct! What have you done to that boy?WHERE'S BETTANY? WHERE IS HE?"

Rev Hale was nearly in hysterics. The other boys had been quickly marshalled away. Even Reynolds was turning a pasty shade of white.

"Headmaster, I think we should investigate where Bettany is. If I may use your telephone?"

Mr Smythe hurried off to try and get through to Chichester. His heart sank as he heard the lines were down and that there had been an air raid over West Sussex.

"Reynolds! I am expelling you from this school!" The Headmaster's face was so grey!

"Mr Donald. Confine this boy to sick bay. He will be publicly expelled on the morning assembly tomorrow. I must speak with Bettany's Uncle."

Mr Donald led the criminal to his confinement. Rev Hale retired to his study to write out his letter of resignation to the governors and to the Diocese authorities. For the first time in his life, he prayed and he really meant to pray.

He took his private car and made the journey to The Round House. Quite what reception Sir James Russell would give him over his missing nephew, he did not know.

Last edited by Phil on Mon Nov 06, 2006 8:27 pm; edited 1 time in total

#169: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 12:00 am
—
At least Hale has seen what an idiot he's been...just hope that poor Rix is going to be okay.

Thanks Phil

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

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 12:49 am
—
Couldn't have happened to a nicer pair! Wonder if Rix will want to stay with the other school?

Thanks Phil

#171: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 5:48 am
—
For once I actually hope that Jem will be furiously angry - I'd like him to give the Headmaster a piece of his mind!

#172: Author: Elisabeth,

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 11:21 am
—
The whole thing looks to me like a blessing in disguise if it gets rid of Reynolds and Hale - hope Rix will be ok though.

#173: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 12:49 pm
—
"Reverend Hale to see you, Herr Sir Doktor"

Rosa curtsied and the quivering Rev Hale was shown into the great doctor's study. Jem looked up from his paperwork. He was very annoyed at the interruption. He was in the middle of deciding whether to remove a section of lung from a patient who was suffering from lung disease following a gas attack years ago in the trenches. Jem had been so absorbed in this task, but refused to let his irritation show at the interruption.

"Reverend Hale. How do you do? Please take a seat. How can I help you?"

Jem hoped it wouldn't be an invitation to talk at speech days! He was a practising doctor for heaven's sake! There was a war on! His priority was to save lives, not give endless boring speeches! A politician's job, that!

"I...I am afraid we have mislaid your nephew Richard."

"I beg your pardon?" Jem's mouth was wide open!

The Reverend Hale's game was up. He revealed his own shortcomings on that fateful school trip. If he hadn't have been drunk and with his lady friend, he wouldn't have put Reynolds in charge of getting the boys into the minibuses. He announced his intention to resign and that his staff were doing everything in the power to ensure the safe return of Richard Bettany.

"I offer you and your wife my most humble apologies Sir James. It feels the worse as there was an air raid over Chichester and West Sussex that night and the telephone wires are down. I do hope young Richard is allright."

The look of indescribable rage Jem gave the weak man was terrifying.

Since the death of parents, his brief reunification with his own sister who had passed away less than two years earlier, Jem had no blood relatives save Daisy and Primula. The sheer love and affection he received from his wife and the warm welcome into the Bettany family was something he treasured more than he could say. His own little son David had a playmate in Rix. On the few occasions Jem allowed himself time to relax, he had enjoyed the children's company. His own triplet nieces had narrowly escaped being torpedoed into a watery grave when Joey had crossed the channel. If Rix were dead or injured! Madge would be devastated, Peggy inconsolable and as for Dick and Mollie!

Technically Jem was responsible for the care of his nephew whilst Dick and Mollie were in India. And this fool of a man was calmly telling him that he had managed to get Rix 'mislaid'.

Madge heard the bellows of fury emanating from Jem's study.

"SUCH INCOMPETENCE SIR IS BEYOND BELIEF!"

"Sir James, everything possible is being done..."

"THIS INCIDENT SHOULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED IN THE FIRST PLACE!"

"I agree sir, but I..."

"I HAVE NOTHING MORE TO SAY TO YOU SIR! GET OUT OF MY HOUSE THIS INSTANT, BEFORE I THROW YOU OUT!"

The terrified wretch fled.

"Jem what on earth is the matter?"

"That unbelievably foolish blockhead of a headmaster has been here to tell me he managed to lose Rix in a town on the south coast and that there has just been an air raid over that place!"

Madge felt sick and had to clutch at her husband for support.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

The boys emerged from the shelter. Surprisingly little damage had been done. Rix could not believe his ears at the sight of the person he saw through the school gates.

His hopes were raised! It couldn't be! Please! Please! Please! Let it be...

#174: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 12:58 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. I hope that Jem and Madge will hear soon that Rix is safe. I'm glad that Reynolds has been expelled. I wonder who is standing outside the gates.

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

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 1:15 pm
—
Well done Jem!!! Laughing

Hope that's one of the Masters from Rix's School waiting for him.

Thanks Phil.

#176: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 2:24 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. And the next bit?

#177: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 2:43 pm
—
"MUM! MUM! MUMMY! IT'S RIX!"

The woman turned round to see the boy behind the iron bars of the school gates. The child looked like a monkey in a zoo. It was not Mrs Bettany.

Janet Scholes had been on her way to the butchers when she was accosted by the cries of a child. She saw the boy burst into tears as he realised he was not her mother! Her heart went out to the child, but she walked on. Hopefully the boys schoolmasters would come for him and get his mother. Oh this dreadful war! She prayed the boy's mother would turn up safe and well.

Rix sobbed on the gates. He wanted the whole family! Even Sybil! Then he felt a hand touch his head.

"Rix! What on earth are you doing here? Why aren't you in school in Armiford?"

Hilda Annersley had been visiting an old schoolfriend in Sussex and was making her way home that afternoon. She had heard a familiar voice shouting and came straight to investigate.

Rix looked like he was going to burst into a fresh round of tears, so Miss Annersley put on her firm but gentle headmistress voice.

"Now, now now! What is this nonsense? Come along Rix! I want to hear you speak, not cry! Come on my boy, be brave, you know you can tell me!"

Rix told her everything. The festival of song, the kind Bishop, and getting left behind and the air raid.

Miss Annersley's expression became very grim. She asked Rix to take her to the headmaster, an old friend of her brother's and to try and contact either Rix's school, the Chalet School, the Round House or Plas Gwyn.

Establishing her identity was no problem and Rix heard his Aunt Madge practically shriek in relief as Hilda Annersley got through to the Round House on the third attempt. Rix was allowed to speak briefly to Auntie Madge, then Uncle Jem came on the line to ask him how he was.

It was a tired Rix Bettany who was deposited back at the Round House that night, ready to face school on the morrow. He barely noticed his uncle carry him up the stairs and his aunt tuck him in.

#178: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 2:58 pm
—
Ah, safe at last. Thank goodness for Hilda.

#179: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 3:14 pm
—
I'm so glad that they got Rix home safely. Thanks Phil.

#180: Author: Rosy-Jess, Location: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 4:03 pm
—
Poor Rix. Am glad he got home safe and sound.

#181: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 6:22 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. I'm glad that Hilda saved the day!

#182: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 6:23 pm
—
Thank goodness a friendly face was there to help Rix, must have been a terrifying experience.

Thanks Phil

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

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 7:28 pm
—
Oh how lovely - so pleased for Rix.

Suppose there's not much chance that Miss Annersley will be able to speak to Rev Hales and/or Reynolds is there? (Lesley hoping)

Thanks Phil.

#184: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 4:10 pm
—
Josette had fallen ill and so had Margot, so neither Joey nor Madge could take Rix back to school. Miss Annersley eagerly offered, as did an outraged Grizel when she heard.

Miss Annersely gave Grizel a cautious look.

"Leave everything to me Grizel. Don't worry, I'm sure you will be quite satisfied at the outcome."

Grizel was practically "straining at the leash" to devour Reynolds and Hale, but she knew she had to "put a sock in it" and sit back whilst the Abbess did the job. Grizel had no doubt that Miss Annersley would make mincemeat of the offenders.

Rix was dispatched with a kiss (of all things!) from Auntie Grizel! Rix entertained a boyish affection for the brisk, sharp music mistress, but he hoped she would never know that!

He was received with warmth by his classmates who gleefully told him there was to be a "public sacking" at assembly! There was no ambiguity as to who would be "sacked".

Grizel had spotted Mr Smythe.

"Mr Smythe, may I present my Headmistress, Miss Annersley from the Chalet School? We've come to bring Rix back to school."

Mr Smythe greeted Miss Annersley with a genuine warmth and old world courtesy which pleased the Abbess greatly. He said he took no pleasure in public expulsions and the departure of the Headmaster, but he was relieved the man was gone.

"Has Rev Hale gone?" inquired Miss Annersley. "I so wanted a chat with him. He knew my late father."

"He leaves the premises at midday today. His final action as Headmaster is the expulsion of Gregory Selwyn Reynolds. He had to beg the governors to allow him to do that. His wife left him yesterday. She's well rid of him. She's gone back to her native Gloucester."

Mr Smythe paused.

"You should come to the expulsion. It should reinforce the lessons the man has to learn and that dreadful boy."

Grizel and Miss Annersley both took tea in the staff room, where they met Mr Reid, Rix's form master. The bell rang for assembly. 180 boys in various shapes and sizes, some grubby and scruffy, some immaculately turned out, some ugly, some who were going to be handsome heartbreaking devils in later years, they all filed into the great hall. A number of juniors turned quizzical looks on Miss Annersley and Grizel. Rix permitted himself a small giggle until Grizel raised her eyebrow at him.

The roll call was read by Mr Smythe. All names bar Reynolds, and the Head Boy, Mitchell were read out. Mitchell was holding Reynolds prisoner outside, awaiting his entrance.

The staff filed in next, each giving Reynolds a reproachful glance. Then the corridor was empty. There was an agonising twenty seconds, then the definitive sound of the Head's shoes were heard descending the stairs and heading towards the Hall!

Reynolds tried to weep as his Headmaster took one look at him.

"No use trying to get round me boy!"

Mitchell marched Reynolds in, where he was led to a dias used for speechmaking. Head bowed, the coward struggled to hold back the tears. Then he saw a triumphant Grizel and nearly staggered in horror. What was she doing here? And who was that severe looking woman with her? Miss Annersley's steel grey eyes were fixed on the miscreant. For a split second, Reynolds thought of bolting. Then his Headmaster was approaching down the aisle which was his only means of escape!

Rev Hale stopped in horror as Miss Annersley's ice cold steel glare hit him! Those eyes so reminiscent of the late Bishop Annersley, who was so frequently his nemesis were a terrifying blast from the past!

He bravely did his duty, nodded to his guests, (Oh not that awful Miss Cochrane!) and commenced expulsion proceedings.

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

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 5:43 pm
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He he he he he!!!!

Love that Hilda's eyes are like her father's! Wink

Rev Hale - you have a lot to look forward to! Laughing

Thanks Phil.

#186: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 6:37 pm
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Brilliant!

Thanks Phil Very Happy

#187: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 7:04 pm
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I loved the descriptions of the boys in the hall! Thanks, Phil.

#188: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 7:28 pm
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Thanks, Phil. I'm really glad that the Headmaster is leaving.

#189: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 9:34 pm
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Just for once in his life Rev Hale tried to do something properly. He was aware he was a figure of fun with the senior boys and the parents of all boys. He was regarded as incompetent by the governors and lost the respect of all his staff (teaching and non-teaching) years ago.

Thus when it came to the expulsion. He put on his dog collar, a smart pin stripe suit, shoes polished to perfection and his M.A. gown, but he still did not convey authority. He opened his lecture.

"Good morning School. We are gathered here today in unpleasant circumstances. We are gathered to witness the expulsion of Gregory Selwyn Reynolds for the most serious charge of carrying a vendetta against a boy in the first form with such cruelty, his actions placed that boy in a position of danger in which said boy could have lost his life.

It is no easy task to decide on expulsion. All staff and governors have to be in unanimous agreement. Every opportunity is given to the culprit to explain their actions and to reform. In the case of Gregory Selwyn Reynolds, this school has witnessed a persistent vein of bullying culminating in a vendetta on a boy some five years younger than himself since the beginning of this term. We cannot permit such a vindictive person to remain within our school."

The Head let his words sink into the audience, who were now staring at Reynolds. Rix was only just realising the gravity of the situation. There was every possibility he could be killed in that air raid and it was all Reynolds' fault in leaving him behind! If he were dead, why he would never see his parents, his siblings and cousins and relatives, especially his beloved twin Peggy! He wanted Peggy there now! The whole school looked terrified. They had never seen Hale act like this before!

There was a pause as the Rev Hale drew a deep breath,

"Gregory Selwyn Reynolds, you are expelled from Armiford Preparatory School with immediate effect. Your belongings have already been packed and a taxi awaits to take you to the station. You are to leave the premises this instant and never be allowed to return. May God forgive you for your sins and I pray you will learn from this experience and become a better person for it. Now go!"

Mitchell had to take the quivering villain's arm and fairly dragged the creature to the door and the iron gates where he was driven to his doom at the hands of his father. As Reynolds walked down the aisle, he tried to make a beseeching look at Rix. Rix did not look at him. That bully could have caused his family and his beloved sister so much pain! With his parents in India, Peggy was so important to him!

As for the other boys, Reynolds dare not lok at them, he could feel their reproachful stares and he noticed them shrink away from him as if he had some incurable contagious disease.

At the gates, he turned to Mitchell.

"I say M...M..Mitch"

"Save it for your Dad, Reynolds."

And Mitchell slammed the iron gates on Reynolds, who slunk into the waiting taxi. He never saw Armiford again.

The Headmaster delivered a few more choice words on bullying and dismissed the school. As staff and pupils left, he could almost feel the late Bishop Annersley's ghost!

"Miss Annersley, Miss Cochrane, I..."

"Perhaps we should proceed to your study?" suggested Miss Annersley in a cold voice, which struck terror into the hearts of wicked middles.

Rev Hale nodded. He was not looking forward to this interview!

#190: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 10:18 pm
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Well thank goodness that horrid boy has been given a proper scare but I can't wait to see what Miss Annersley has in store for the wicked Hale considering exactly the same thing could be said of him!

Thank you Phil.

#191: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 10:46 pm
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Thanks, Phil. I look forward to seeing what Miss Annersley will say to Hale.

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

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 5:25 am
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Hmmm, well the expulsion was good - but I think it's too late Hale - you've still to face Rix's brevet aunt! Laughing

Thanks Phil.

#193: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 12:06 pm
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Go, Hilda, reduce him to a squirming worm.

#194: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 9:34 pm
—
Rev Hale entered his study feeling like a schoolboy. He remembered his first run in with the late Bishop Annersley.

Miss Annersley went straight to the Head's desk, then she paused.

"Excuse me Reverend Hale, habit on my part, going to the Head's desk!"

"You may as well make yourself comfortable." Hale proffered his chair and desk. Miss Annersley took the offer.

Grizel was amazed! Even in a different school, the Abbess only had to sit behind the headteacher's desk and she assumed total command!

"Reverend Hale. I know you were acquainted with my late father. I never knew his opinions on the clergy who served under him and I am not here to judge you in my capacity as my father's daughter."

Hale nodded; but she was so like her father!

"What I am here to do is congratulate you."

"Congratulate me?"

"Yes, congratulate you."

"But...but ... but..."

"On taking the only right and proper decision you could ever take in your entire life! Your resignation as headmaster of this school!"

The steel grey eyes pinned the squirming wretch where he stood.

"I have never heard such a woeful catalogue of errors and dereliction of duty as yours and it is made more acute by the fact there is a war on! You drank whilst on duty and whilst visiting another school! You flaunted your mistress in church and in front of the boys in your care and you consistently promoted a boy of such a warped and cruel character to be in charge of boys scarcely out of toddlerhood!"

"Miss Annersley, I am making amends, I have resigned!"

"Resigned! You should be defrocked sir! Make no mistake, I shall be writing to the Bishop of Armiford regarding your conduct! You are not fit to be one of God's clergy!"

"Miss Annersley, boys have to learn the hard way of life from an early age!"

Miss Annersley stared at the wretch, who wished he could eat his words!

"You have no idea about raising children. None whatsoever. And don't tell me I don't know about boys! They may think in different ways from their sisters, but they basically have the same feelings. Nurturing a boy or a girl's mind in a bad way, such as that Reynolds creature is a recipe for disaster. You wouldn't understand. I suggest you leave! Go to your fancy woman! I cannot possibly think what you have to offer in service to this country. it is certainly not as a pastor or as a teacher. I hope God has mercy on you, you unhappy little man."

Reverend Hale turned on his heel and left. Miss Annersley breathed a sigh of relief.

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

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 10:06 pm
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Yah! Go Hilda.

Love that she took up position at his desk! Laughing

Thanks Phil.

#196: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 10:59 pm
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Thanks, Phil. The interview definitely didn't disappoint me!

#197: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 11:22 pm
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She definitely gave him a piece of her mind...thanks Phil!

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

Posted: Wed Jul 05, 2006 12:29 am
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Well done Hilda!

Thanks Phil

#199: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Wed Jul 05, 2006 8:52 pm
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Good for Hilda.

#200: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu Jul 06, 2006 10:31 pm