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Paul Temple and the Chalet School Affair - complete 07/06/08
http://www.the-cbb.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=13&t=4139
Author:  abbeygirl [ Fri Mar 07, 2008 12:50 pm ]
Post subject:  Paul Temple and the Chalet School Affair - complete 07/06/08
For those who have never heard of Paul Temple – Shame on you! – he was a radio detective who , with his wife, Steve, solved innumerable cases at the behest of Scotalnd Yard, whilst enjoying pre and post war City life, cocktails and exotic holidays abroad. The series ran for 30 years and is absolutely wonderful. Incidentally there is a GO connection in that several short Paul Temple stories written by Francis Durbridge appear in the Daily Mail Annual. The first radio series was broadcast in 1938.


Although the greatest portion of the morning post was destined for Paul Temple, the well known detective novelist, his wife Steve – before her marriage a successful Fleet Street journalist and with a wide circle of friends and acquaintances – usually also managed more than her fair share. Today, however, much of it was destined to remain unopened, at least for now, as she became thoroughly absorbed in one particular letter. Paul only became aware of his wife’s inattention when he had unavailingly attempted to get his coffee cup refilled. Giving up the attempt until his wife had finished her letter and come to her common or garden senses, Paul was content to posses his soul in – relative – patience.

The letter did not take much longer to finish and Steve sat back in her chair, absently raising the coffee cup to her lips. It was the less than pleasant taste of stone cold coffee that finally brought her back to life, spluttering an indignant protest.

Her undutiful husband merely laughed at the expression on her face and then, having gained her attention at long last, attempted to find out what was in the wind.

“Well darling?” he inquired with a quizzical lift of the eyebrow and a fleeting glance at the letter in her hand.

“Let me ring for some more coffee first darling. Then I’ll tell you all about it. I’d very much like your opinion in any case.”

Steve rang the small bell by the side of her plate, and Price, the Temple’s butler and mainstay of the house, appeared a few moments later.

“You rang Madam?” he inquired politely

“Oh Pryce – I’m afraid I’ve let the coffee go cold – do you think we could have some more please?”

Pryce looked at her – disapproval evident in his stiffly upright carriage “I shall reheat the coffee Madam” was all he said, however.

Steve, who hated reheated coffee, nevertheless made no protest. Pryce – unable to fight at the Front – was determined to help win the war on the Home Front and strict economies allied to a war on waste were just some of the weapons he chose to employ.

Having swiftly consumed the reheated coffee – Paul having refused the offer of a refill with a shudder – Steve then proceeded to divulge the contents of that all absorbing letter.

“Do you remember me telling you about Madge Bettany?”
Author:  Fatima [ Fri Mar 07, 2008 1:19 pm ]
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I've never heard of him. This does look interesting, though, thanks Abbeygirl.
Author:  Sarah J [ Fri Mar 07, 2008 1:20 pm ]
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Most intriguing - looking forward to reading this even though I'm afraid I've never heard of Paul Temple before.
Author:  leahbelle [ Fri Mar 07, 2008 1:41 pm ]
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I've never heard of him either :oops: but I'm looking forward to reading more.
Author:  Mona [ Fri Mar 07, 2008 1:51 pm ]
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An interesting start, thanks!
I've never heard of him either, in fact I thought he might be a relation of Janie Lucy & her sisters!
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Fri Mar 07, 2008 1:54 pm ]
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Clearly the fact I actually remember listening to the Paul Temple radio series puts me well into the older generation of CBBers!! This looks interesting Abbeygirl - thank you. Not sure whether I thank you for the fact that the theme tune from the series is now running around in my head - now that *is* sad!!!!
Author:  PaulineS [ Fri Mar 07, 2008 4:22 pm ]
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Thanks I too remember Paul Temple both on radio and TV.

I like the idea of reheating coffee as part of the war effort. They were lucky to have coffee and not "Camp Coffee".
Author:  Squirrel [ Fri Mar 07, 2008 4:43 pm ]
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Um... is it terribly *bad* that my mind went immediately to the fact that Janie and co were called Temple at one point, and so thought it must simply be a relative of theirs... :oops:

Still, this looks most interesting, and I shall follow with interest!
Author:  MHE [ Fri Mar 07, 2008 4:50 pm ]
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Although too young to have heard the original radio broadcasts of Paul Temple I have most of them as audio cds, and I have read a number of the books - looking forward to reading the rest. :D
Author:  Elbee [ Fri Mar 07, 2008 5:24 pm ]
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I'm another one who's not heard of Paul Temple, but I'm looking forward to finding out more!

Thanks, Abbeygirl.
Author:  MaryR [ Fri Mar 07, 2008 5:33 pm ]
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I adored Paul Temple when I was young and thought his wife somethiing rather special. :roll: Now I'm REALLY showing my age!!

Thanks, Abbeygirl
Author:  roversgirl [ Fri Mar 07, 2008 10:29 pm ]
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I have never heard of him either but this sounds interesting. Thanks :)
Author:  andi [ Fri Mar 07, 2008 10:30 pm ]
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This looks really interesting...
Author:  JustJen [ Fri Mar 07, 2008 11:54 pm ]
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I've never heard of this series but this looks very interesting! PLease update soon.
Author:  patmac [ Sat Mar 08, 2008 8:50 am ]
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What a great idea! I could *hear* Frances Durbridge's voice when I read the post.

I also will now have 'The Coronation Scot' running through my head all day! The Paul Temple series is available on audio CDs and is being repeated on BBC Radio 7.
More please
:D
Author:  abbeygirl [ Sat Mar 08, 2008 6:31 pm ]
Post subject:  Paul Temple and the Chalet Affair
Glad to see there are some other fans out there. I came across my first Paul Temple on BBC7 and then managed to acquire the lot on mp3 and BBC audio. They are great and for the time Steve is presented as such a strong woman - a successful investigative journalist on Fleet Street when most women were confined to writing about the Court circle or sewing? But on to the next part - hopefully as I've never posted more than once before! - and thank you all very much!

“Do you remember me telling you about Madge Bettany?”

“I don’t think so” Paul began and then stopped “By Timothy! Yes I do! That old school friend of yours – started a school herself in Austria somewhere didn’t she? I say! I hope she’s not still there?” he finished anxiously.

Steve hastened to reassure him “ Oh no – they managed to evacuate, first to Guernsey – then again in 1940 to the Mainland – near Armiford actually. I understand there was some difficulty though, apparently Madge’s young sister was forced to go on the run from the Nazi’s with her future husband and adopted sister. It must have been terrifying! Anyway she’s Madge Russell now- she married that doctor who started the Sanitorium in the Tyrol – James Russell. Hasn’t he just been knighted? I suppose Madge is Lady Russell now!”

“Yes I’ve heard of him” said Paul briefly “But do go on Steve!”

“Well I’ll miss out all the family news and so on – you never met Madge so it can’t be any interest to you – Oh All Right darling! “ the last exclamation came as her husband’s patience showed signs of stretching to breaking point. “The school was recently asked to take on two new pupils from the Highlands – specifically from the Island of Erisay”

Steve stopped as a stifled exclamation burst from her husband.

“Why Paul! Whatever is the matter!”

“Never mind Steve – I’ll tell you later. But do go on – I’m becoming very interested indeed in your letter!”

Steve subsided – for now - although she had no intention of letting Paul off the hook.

“The strange thing was that the request came from a Ministry official – one of those silly made up ones that the Government think disguises the fact they are part of Intelligence – and although she agreed – not without misgivings – now she is worried. There have been several “incidents” in the past few weeks – she doesn’t say what they are naturally - but it seems a bit more than coincidence…”

“So is she asking for your advice?” Paul asked.

“Well yes, in a way. But it’s a bit more than that. She has been reading about some of our little adventures in the press and wonders if I could look around a bit, see if there is anything to worry about. If I decide there is then she’ll call in the Ministry. If not, well then she hasn’t lost face. What do you think darling?”

“Won’t it be a bit awkward with you trying to investigate without attracting attention? If there is something amiss, I don’t want you to be in any danger!” Paul sounded worried.

Steve laughed out loud “Paul! We spend our lives trying to dodge people who are trying to kill us! This is going to be nice rest in comparison to our normal life!” and Paul, recalling they had met following the death of Steve’s brother by a South African criminal mastermind, and had since had several narrow escapes from being shot, or drowned or poisoned – had to gracefully give way on that point.

“ I suppose you want to go?” but although it was phrased as a question, he already knew the answer.

“Well yes I do rather” replied his wife “Madge was very good to me when Mother and Father died and I would have had a rough time at school without her, so if I can help her, I’d like to. But Paul, why did you react like that about Erisay?”

It was her husband’s turn to hesitate as he mentally weighed up what he could – or should – tell Steve. He quickly made up his mind. Steve had proved her courage and discretion over and over again in their several adventures. They were partners, and she should at know the truth.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Sat Mar 08, 2008 8:13 pm ]
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This definitely sounds intriguing, and I'll look forward to reading more - thanks Abbeygirl. Oh and thank you, too, PatMac, for reminding me of the name of the series' signature tune - I'd completely forgotten that!

edited because I thanked the wrong Pat first time :oops: :oops:
Author:  Jenefer [ Sat Mar 08, 2008 8:32 pm ]
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More please
There was a TV series in the late sixties but cannot remember the actor who played Paul Temple
Author:  PaulineS [ Sat Mar 08, 2008 9:46 pm ]
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thanks for the update.
Author:  Nell [ Sat Mar 08, 2008 11:44 pm ]
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Looks good - I've read but not heard Paul temple before and enjoyed it so look forward to seeing where this goes!

Thank you!
Author:  Kathy_S [ Sun Mar 09, 2008 3:06 am ]
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Sounds most intriguing!

(...though I've never heard of Paul & Steve either.)
Author:  Squirrel [ Sun Mar 09, 2008 8:11 am ]
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Hmmmm - so, what is going on in Erisay, and what is happening at the school?

Thanks Abbeygirl
Author:  roversgirl [ Sun Mar 09, 2008 8:15 am ]
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Intriguing... Does anyone know where you can get hold of the Paul Temple radio recordings or anything else? Thanks Abbeygirl :)
Author:  MHE [ Sun Mar 09, 2008 9:16 am ]
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I bought mine feom amazon but I know that waterstones and smiths sell them as well. Amazon usually has that little tempter 'buy this one and get another at a reduced price' - fatal or what!!!
Author:  andi [ Sun Mar 09, 2008 11:08 am ]
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Very intriguing (sorry, tried to think of a different word for 'intriguing' but failed!) Looking forward to more :)
Author:  patmac [ Sun Mar 09, 2008 7:53 pm ]
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Very true to the series :D

thank you.
Author:  Chair [ Sun Mar 09, 2008 8:49 pm ]
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Thanks, Abbeygirl! I don't remember the series but I am definitely enjoying this so far! I can't wait to find out about Erisay.
Author:  abbeygirl [ Sun Mar 09, 2008 10:01 pm ]
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Thank you all for being so generous with your comments.... Yes there was a televison sereis I believe and four films. I've just bought one of them from Ebay on dvd and it will be interesting to see how it compares to the audio book. Dead envious about MHE having read the books though - I have tried to get hold of some but without success. Did manage a copy of the original radio script thanks to the BBC archives and that was fascinating..

A bit more about Paul and Steve .....

“You remember I told you that Sir Graham rang yesterday” Paul began.

“Yes of course I do Paul – but you never said why he phoned you and I assumed he just wanted your advice on a case?” Steve put a questioning lilt into the last part of the sentence and her husband responded to it immediately.

“Well actually Steve, you were quite right. He did. But not here in London.” He paused for a moment and looked at his wife. He was not disappointed as she quickly jumped to the right conclusion.

“Paul! Do you mean to tell me Sir Graham phoned you about a case on Erisay?” Steve exclaimed incredulously.

“Exactly, Darling. But now you can see why I was so surprised when you mentioned the name.” Paul added ruefully.

“But do go on Paul – what has Sir Graham got to do with Erisay – and more to the point – what does Sir Graham want you to do?”

“Hold on a minute Steve!” he exclaimed as the flood of questions poured from his wife’s lips. “Let me pour you a drink and I’ll tell you all about it.” And he moved to the large drinks cabinet and poured them both a small glass of whisky, sighing a little as he noticed how little there was left, for he knew very well how difficult it would be to replace!

It was good pre-war whisky and so for a while there was a comfortable silence as both sipped their drinks, giving the moment – and the whisky – due deference. But even a good malt could not assuage Steve’s curiosity for long and she soon urged her husband to “spill the beans!”

Paul had used the time to marshal his thoughts and decide exactly what he was going to say. “I’ll tell you exactly what Sir Graham told me Steve. He explained that the Island itself along with all the houses – there aren’t many I believe - had been requisitioned for the duration. Now the boffins at the Admiralty are happily ensconced in the Big House and are busily inventing something so terribly top secret that I think only Mr Churchill knows all the details. Naturally the place is heavily guarded and a smokescreen naval base was established so that no suspicions should be aroused amongst the locals. But in the past few weeks there have been some disturbing events - I’m afraid I can’t tell you the details - but it was enough to put the wind up the Navy Top brass who insisted on calling in Scotland Yard and Sir Graham wants me to come along with him.”

“Send for Paul Temple again then!” Steve couldn’t help interjecting, despite the seriousness of the matter. After all it was Steve’s newspaper campaign urging Scotland Yard to “Send For Paul Temple” that had resulted in their marriage and Sir Graham’s special invitation to form a sort of unofficial partnership with Scotland Yard – he would be consulted whenever it appeared that Scotland Yard were struggling with a particular case.

“Yes I’m very much afraid so. I didn’t like the idea of leaving you alone, but it would have been impossible for you to come with us. So this invitation to sleuth for Lady Russell appears to have come at the most opportune moment. I don’t suppose for a moment there is anything to it, I’m sure it is just a coincidence – after all what interest could the Nazi’s have in two small schoolgirls! And it does seem if there is any dirty work – it will be focused on the Island. You’ll probably have a lovely holiday in the country, catching up with your friend and that will be that.”

Steve though looked thoughtful. “You know Darling, I don’t think you are right. I really believe I’ll find Madge is on to something.”

Her husband looked sceptical “That good old female intuition again!” he said laughingly.
Author:  roversgirl [ Sun Mar 09, 2008 10:07 pm ]
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thanks for this - am really enjoying it :)
Author:  Chair [ Sun Mar 09, 2008 10:38 pm ]
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Thanks, Abbeygirl. I am still really enjoying this!
Author:  PaulineS [ Sun Mar 09, 2008 11:12 pm ]
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Thanks for the update. i like this view of the war time problems I suspect Steve will be right and Madge will keep her busy.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Sun Mar 09, 2008 11:23 pm ]
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I'm really enjoying this - I, too, tend to think that Madge may well be 'on to' something which will keep Steve just as occupied as Paul is going to be.
Author:  Squirrel [ Mon Mar 10, 2008 8:18 am ]
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I'd agree with all that has gone before. Just *how* Steve will be kept busy is something I'd rather not guess!

And now you really *have* got me intrigued - I think I'm going to have to get ahold of some of those audiobooks (or whatever they actually are) now...

Thanks Abbeygirl.
Author:  JB [ Mon Mar 10, 2008 1:38 pm ]
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I'm really enjoying this.

I hadn't come across Paul Temple before but i've just seen that BBC Radio 7 are serialising Paul Temple and the Geneva Mystery each day from Thursday 13 to Thursday 20 March. It's repeated several times a day and available through Listen Again.
Author:  Kathy_S [ Mon Mar 10, 2008 5:29 pm ]
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Bet they're both in the thick of it. :D

Thank you, Abbeygirl.
Author:  leahbelle [ Tue Mar 11, 2008 3:05 pm ]
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Thanks! Really enjoying this!
Author:  patmac [ Tue Mar 11, 2008 6:52 pm ]
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Thank you. I'm enjoying this and looking forward to seeing Steve at the CS.
Author:  abbeygirl [ Tue Mar 11, 2008 8:41 pm ]
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If you can catch the BBC7 Paul Temple programme I really do recommend it, although if you thought Lesley did cliffs.....

Short one tonight - there is more written, its just getting it typed up!

“Cripes! I’m late!” exclaimed Joey Maynard and with a final kiss for the three red-headed people that were her life and a shouted “take care of everything until I get back Rob!” she abandoned the dignity owing to a doctor’s wife and mother of three, and ran round to the garage at the back of the house as fast as her long legs would carry her. She had a lot to do this morning – Madge had been ill with a slight bilious attack and although now up, Jem had vetoed her going out at least until tomorrow, and she had begged Jo to go to the station on her behalf. Whilst she was there, Joey fully intended making the most of the trip, stocking up a on a number of things needed by the household, and although there was no guarantee the train would be on time, she knew perfectly well if she was not at Armiford station by half past eleven, the train undoubtedly would be!

With Boanerges fired up and ready to go, Joey gave all her attention to driving. This late in the day the roads were packed with lorries and army vans, and you could never tell when a stray sheep - or even on one memorable occasion, a flock – would have to decide to cross the road! Although Joey fretted at the further delay, she could do nothing about it and possessed her soul in patience until she finally entered the built up part of Armiford and drove slowly down the long road which began below the railway bridge. From there she passed the cathedral and carried on through the town until she reached the station square. There she parked the car, and having made sure the car was locked – she was now inured to that necessity! – caught the bus into town. She completed as much of her shopping – stocks and points allowing – as quickly as she could given the lengthy queues. She was still thrilled at having managed to obtain sausages - the butcher’s daughter was a fan of Josephine M Bettany, and he would sometimes put a little something aside for her – and this lot would stretch to a wonderful pie which would provide a veritable feast for the family! She made it back to the station just as the train from London steamed in, and having hastily dumped the shopping in the car, Joey went to meet her visitor.

As usual the train was packed and it was a little while before Joey caught sight of a tall, slim, beautifully dressed woman with a small case and hat box, waiting patiently as agreed under the station clock, and moved quickly to meet her.

Mrs Temple?” she enquired?
Author:  PaulineS [ Tue Mar 11, 2008 9:39 pm ]
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Thanks Abbeygirl for another good update.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Tue Mar 11, 2008 10:23 pm ]
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Thanks Abbygirl, this is wonderful. I must admit when I saw the name Temple I thought of the Temple sisters too
Author:  roversgirl [ Wed Mar 12, 2008 7:23 am ]
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Thanks - yes I definitely thought of the Temple sisters too!
Author:  abbeybufo [ Wed Mar 12, 2008 10:09 am ]
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Just caught up with this - after a weekend in France - great beginning!
Looking forward to seeing just how it all ties in with Highland Twins :wink:
Thanks Fi :D
Author:  MaryR [ Wed Mar 12, 2008 5:51 pm ]
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Should be fascinating to see how Jo and Steve get along. :lol:

Thanks, Fiona.
Author:  abbeygirl [ Thu Mar 13, 2008 8:54 pm ]
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Mary - your wish is my command.....

Mrs Temple?” she enquired? And was relieved when the answer was in the affirmative. She held out her hand “How do you do? I’m Mrs Maynard” and then as the lady continued to look puzzled she flushed and explained hastily “I’m sorry! I’m Madge’s sister Joey.” And this time was rewarded by a sudden surprised recognition.

“Oh my goodness! I remember Madge talking about her little sister when we were at school together – somehow I hadn’t imagined you so grown up!” Steve exclaimed involuntarily before adding hastily - and apologetically - “ But now its my turn to apologise Mrs Maynard, I’m forgetting my manners – it is very kind of you to meet me like this.”

“Oh it’s the least we could do!” exclaimed Joey “ I’m so sorry Madge was unable to make it herself – she has been so looking forward to seeing you again, but I’m afraid she has been rather poorly recently, and so hoped you would forgive her for sending in a deputy.”

“Not at all - but you say Madge is poorly?” Steve was concerned, but her anxiety was relieved when Joey threw her carefully assumed matronly dignity to the winds and declared roundly “Oh she’s fine now, its just Jem – her husband you know – being an old fusspot as usual!” and as Steve laughed, she realised what she had said. Flushing vividly once more she mourned ruefully “Oh my wretched tongue!”

But the ice between the two women had been well and truly broken now, and gathering Steve’s modest luggage between them they left the station.

“I’m taking you straight to the Round House – Madge’s home you know – or perhaps you didn’t” ended Joey doubtfully, remembering Madge telling her that it had been a long time since their paths had crossed.

“Madge told me in her letter that this was where she was living now, but I know nothing more than the name. Your sister and I lost touch soon after we left school – she went to India to be with her brother – Dick isn’t it? – and I went to South Africa to be with mine. We exchanged the odd letter and Christmas card of course but when we suddenly had to return to England and I had to change my name, well that was it.”

Joey had been listening with complete absorption – or at least as much as she could spare from the road – and at this remarkable conclusion, jerked a little too hard on the wheel. Always on the lookout for new material for a book, this sounded like it had the makings of a humdinger! But conscious she had already displayed a lamentable lack of manners to her sister’s guest she nobly refrained from asking any one of the dozen or so questions that hovered on her lips and contended herself with a swift apology for the manoeuvre.

Steve’s lips twitched. Joey’s reaction and the reason for it had not escaped her – she was after all an experienced fleet street journalist – but this was not the time or the place to give Madge’s sister chapter and verse on her life history. With the charm and tact that was legendary, she discreetly changed the subject - "But I think Madge said that you too were married?"

For the remainder of the journey, Joey spoke about the subject that was dearest to her heart, her family. Her face – not beautiful certainly – was alive and vital, the expression changing from moment to moment. The real pain in her voice as she talked about her husband away in the army. The joy as she told of her triplet daughters, although Steve could not account for the shadow that appeared as she mentioned the youngest – Margot – and the mischief as she explained Madge’s huge embarrassment at her husband’s elevation to the peerage and her own subsequent title. “I simple can’t help ragging Madge about it!” confided Joey with a chuckle “she rises so beautifully every time – goes bright red and starts to splutter!” and Steve laughed heartlessly at the picture this evoked.

The journey passed swiftly in this manner and soon Joey was pointing out the landmarks that meant they were nearing the Round House and Madge.
Author:  roversgirl [ Thu Mar 13, 2008 9:02 pm ]
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Thanks. Glad they get on so well :) I triedto listen into Radio 7 today but it kept crashing my internet :(
Author:  patmac [ Thu Mar 13, 2008 9:27 pm ]
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I do like your Joey! Thank you.
Author:  PaulineS [ Thu Mar 13, 2008 9:59 pm ]
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Thank you for the update. I think i am going to have to get a digital radio so I can listen again to the series.
Author:  Kathy_S [ Fri Mar 14, 2008 3:03 am ]
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Old fusspot, is it? :lol: Fine introduction.

Thank you, abbeygirl.
Author:  MaryR [ Fri Mar 14, 2008 7:37 pm ]
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Thank you, Fiona, for satisfying my curiosity. :lol: And yes, they will clearly get on very well. Steve is as bad as Hilda at reading minds. :P
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Sat Mar 15, 2008 12:04 am ]
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Lovely, Abbeygirl - I'm really enjoying this. I can see that Steve and Jo are likely to be good friends, as well as Steve renewing her friendship with Madge (sorry about the grammar there- it's been a long day!!)
Author:  abbeygirl [ Tue Mar 18, 2008 1:50 pm ]
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Just a little post today.....

Soon they were in sight of a beautiful meadow surrounded by trees, through which Steve could just make out a glorious old Georgian hunting lodge. Joey explained it was called the Round House because of the shape of the living room which was, literally, round.

“There is a farm attached to the house which keeps Madge very busy – with that and her family, as well as four of our brother’s kiddies you can see she has her work cut out!” she added.

Steve –accustomed to the luxurious Mayfair flat with Price to help run it and just Paul to worry about - could only nod, her agreement tinged with admiration.

Joey drove smartly up the long circular driveway and coming to a halt at the steps which wound gently up to the front terrace, tooted the horn. The door was flung open in response and Madge Russell, her years and dignity alike thrown to the four winds, came hurtling down the steps to welcome her much-awaited guest.

“Lou Harvey!” she exclaimed in delighted accents “How simply marvellous!”

Steve took one look at her hostess and the years fled away. With a cry of “Madge!” she leapt from the car and with tears in her eyes warmly embraced one of the very few women in her life she had ever regarded as a true friend.

“Welcome to the Round House” said Madge quietly after the initial joy of meeting had passed, and arm in arm the two women passed through the door, whilst Joey – an understanding smile on her face, climbed back into the car, and drove home to Plas Gwyn, completely forgotten for the time being.
Author:  abbeybufo [ Tue Mar 18, 2008 4:33 pm ]
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Lovely - Madge & Jo much more sympathetic here than in my world :wink:

Thanks, Fi
Author:  roversgirl [ Tue Mar 18, 2008 9:38 pm ]
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Thanks :)
Author:  Miss Di [ Wed Mar 19, 2008 2:38 am ]
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I'm another one who thought of the Temples and hadn't heard of Paul and Steve. But I look forward to hearing more about them!
Author:  Karry [ Wed Mar 19, 2008 6:38 am ]
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You can catch up with The radio on the BBC Listen again facility. I listened to 4 episodes last night!
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Wed Mar 19, 2008 7:36 am ]
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Thanks, love Madge and Joey there
Author:  MaryR [ Thu Mar 20, 2008 12:34 pm ]
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Just caught up on the last two posts, Fiona, and loved them. Though am trying very hard to picture Madge doing farm work! :lol:

Thank you, Fiona.
Author:  Kathy_S [ Sat Mar 22, 2008 2:54 am ]
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Thank you, Fiona. :)
Author:  Dawn [ Sat Mar 22, 2008 7:12 pm ]
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Just caught up on all of this and really enjoyed it

And will have to ask mum if she remembers Paul Temple....


Amazon spending here I may come :roll:
Author:  abbeygirl [ Wed Mar 26, 2008 10:19 pm ]
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Thank you all very much for taking the time to make comments - I really do appreciate it... Bit more background......

Naturally Steve had to be introduced to the smaller occupants of the house – the boys David and Rix manfully offering Steve a hand to shake, which she did with admirable gravity. The girls, from the baby of the house, Josette, through the shy Peggy and her small but sturdy sister Bride and ending with the beautiful Sybil, were rather more forthcoming with kisses. Steve had rarely seen such a gorgeous child as Madge’s oldest, but knew better than to make any comment on her appearance and wondered why Sybil looked a little disgruntled as Steve merely replied “How nice to meet you” as she had to all the other children. But it slipped from her mind as Madge, gently but very firmly, sent the small fry back to the nursery, having first promised faithfully to come to them later and hear their prayers.

“Lou – sorry Steve I mean - I simply can’t get used to calling you that!” Madge exclaimed.
“Its funny isn’t it – its been so long since anyone called me that – it almost feels as if you are talking to someone else. I keep looking around to see who else has come into the room!” replied Steve with a rueful laugh.

“You’ll have to tell me everything – but first how about a hot bath and a chance to unpack before you tell all!”

“That sounds heavenly” admitted Steve and so Madge showed her the bathroom she was to use, before opening the door to the delightful guest room which was to be her home for the next few days. “I’ll leave you alone now” said Madge “Take as long as you like and come and find me when you are ready.”

Steve had entered a white walled room featuring a border of pale blue running round them below the picture rail and above the skirting boards. A blue carpet lay on the floor, and the white-painted bedsteads had darker blue silk eiderdowns to match. Two wicker chairs stood invitingly at either side of the fireplace, furnished with comfortable blue silk cushions. The final touch were the white cretonne curtains with a riotous blue pattern, lined with blue and with blue blinds – thus making a rather more attractive black out than was usually the case. The lights too had blue shades and the hearth was tiled in blue. A bookcase with a double handful of books stood against one wall; a pretty dressing table, set in the best light, was across the corner. Two large wardrobes stood against the other wall. There were two or three cane-seated chairs and a big white fleecy rug before the hearth. It was as fresh and dainty a room as you could wish for and Steve was delighted at the prospect of staying in such pleasant surroundings.

Taking her hostess at her word, Steve ran a hot bath, liberally and luxuriously scented with lavender, and soaked the stress and strains of the journey and the parting from Paul, from her mind. It was a good hour or so later when she appeared in the drawing room where her hostess was busily darning what could only be one of Sir James’s socks, having decided she might as well do something useful whilst waiting impatiently for Steve to reappear.

Jem had already sent a message to say he wouldn’t be home until very late – a case he couldn’t leave – and so the two women settled down to talk, happily conscious that there would be no interruptions! First Steve related the details of her brother’s clash with the Knave of Diamonds in South Africa which had directly resulted in his partner’s death and their subsequent flight to England. Steve’s name change and her meeting and marriage to Paul Temple after they had unmasked the Knave - master thief and her brother’s killer. Then it was Madge’s turn to relate how she had come to set up her school in the Tyrol, her marriage and flight from the Gestapo – first from Austria and then more recently from their second home in Guernsey. It was hardly surprising then that the time simply flew by - only the sound of the dinner gong bringing them back to the here and now.

The meal that appeared before them took Steve aback. It would have been more than adequate even by pre-war standards, but in the current environment appeared positively sumptuous! Food in London was always less abundant and certainly less varied than in the country – unless of course you were prepared to use the black market, and Price would have collapsed on the spot at the very idea of doing something so unpatriotic! Despite her willingness to endure along with the rest of the country, Steve was only human, and savoured every mouthful of the delicious food set before her.

“Madge! This is wonderful!” Steve exclaimed in delight, before turning to and doing the meal full justice.

After the meal Madge excused herself for a moment, and went off for the nightly visit to the night nursery to say goodnight to the children and to hear their prayers. She entered the room smiling and at Steve’s quizzical look explained that Master Rix had inserted a rather unusual line to his nightime devotions. Following the rather more usual requests he had apparently entered a plea that “Auntie Madge have lots more visitors so he could stay up late more often!”

The long day and journey began to catch up with Steve soon after and although she tried manfully to hide the fact, her yawns gave her away. By common consent they agreed to leave all explanations until the morning, when a Miss Annersley and Miss Wilson would fill Steve in with the mysterious recent events and between them, they could lay their plans.
Author:  Elbee [ Wed Mar 26, 2008 11:41 pm ]
Post subject: 
I've spent the last few days listening to "Paul Temple and the Geneva Mystery" on BBC7 and thoroughly enjoyed it (as did my teenage son :lol: ). Thanks for introducing us to Paul Temple :D . Looking forward to more!

Why did Steve change her name from Lou - is that in the first Paul Temple story?
Author:  roversgirl [ Thu Mar 27, 2008 7:51 am ]
Post subject: 
Thank you! Am looking forward to the next bit! :)
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Thu Mar 27, 2008 8:17 am ]
Post subject: 
Love Rix's prayer! :lol: My sister's kids always think the same thing when I ring up Mummy cos it means they get to stay up late! :lol:
Author:  abbeygirl [ Thu Mar 27, 2008 12:10 pm ]
Post subject: 
Elbee asked
Quote:
Why did Steve change her name from Lou - is that in the first Paul Temple story?


I did try and squeeze that in as part of the last post - but to answer your question a bit more fully - In Send for Paul Temple (first broadcast in 1938) - Steve Trent is a leading fleet street journalist who orchestrates a campign for Scotland Yard to "Send for Paul Temple" as they are struggling to solve a series of daring robberies. I'm not going to tell you the entire plot but essentially we discover that Steve is really Louise Harvey - she lived with her policeman brother in Cape Town until her brother became involved with a case involving the Knave of Diamonds - aka Max Lorraine. He manages to smash the gang, but not to catch the mastermind behind it all. There follow a number of attempts to kill both her brother and his partner and at last they succeed in killing the partner. It is decided that the brother and sister should move to England and at this point - in order to "hide" from the Knave that Louise Harvey becomes Steve Trent. Although it is never actually mentioned, I think it is fairly obvious that the name change is the way Steve manages to break into Fleet Street - editors of the time being more willing to give a by line to Steve Trent than Louise Harvey.

I have also given two links to my favourite websites about Paul Temple - but WARNING - the first on the list provides a detailed synopsis of the plot for many of the adventures (taken from the book of the radio show - as many of the Paul Temples no longer exist - they simply weren't recorded and hence have disappeared forever).

http://www.geocities.com/gregorym101/Temple1.html

www.thrillingdetective.com/temple.html
Author:  PaulineS [ Thu Mar 27, 2008 1:26 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks for the update and the websites.
Author:  MaryR [ Thu Mar 27, 2008 2:48 pm ]
Post subject: 
A real girl's night in. :lol: Lovely. And the description of the bedroom was good enough to make me want to sink my toes into that rug. :roll:

Thanks, Fiona.
Author:  janetbrown23 [ Thu Mar 27, 2008 4:54 pm ]
Post subject:  Audio Books
I have had several of the Paul Temple Audio Books from my local library in Colchester. Its worth a try wheerever you live, here they charge £2 for 3 weeks loan and well not to put a too fine a point on it they can be copied lol. Not that fine upstanding CS girls would do such a thing, I'm sure.


Double post deleted - Elle with Mod Hat on
Author:  abbeybufo [ Thu Mar 27, 2008 5:39 pm ]
Post subject: 
Another lovely update, Fi - thanks for the links, too, tho' no time to follow them up yet.
Author:  Miss Di [ Fri Mar 28, 2008 2:38 am ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Fi.

That is one Huge bedroom! Sounds most attractive though.
Author:  Rosalin [ Sun Mar 30, 2008 5:51 pm ]
Post subject: 
Just read all of this - intriguing. Looking forward to finding out what is really going on.

Thanks Fiona.
Author:  abbeygirl [ Tue Apr 15, 2008 9:09 pm ]
Post subject: 
Apologies for the delay in posting – RL!

Steve made her weary way to Bedfordshire – as she had overheard one of the small fry calling it earlier – and as she undressed and looked around the beautiful, very comfortable room in which Madge had placed her – was suddenly seized by an urgent longing for her husband. They had rarely been parted since their marriage and it was made worse this time by the realisation that Paul was heading into danger without her. But Steve had courage and, with a swift prayer for his continued safety Steve slipped between the freshly laundered, cool linen sheets, and was soon sleeping the sleep of the just.

The next morning, fortified by the nearly unheard of luxury of a plate of bacon and real eggs!, Madge and Steve set off for the school. They were shown into a beautiful room, surrounded by built-in shelves, laden with books and furnished with large comfortable saddle-bag chairs and sofa. The main part of the floor was beautiful old oak boards, polished to a degree which would made a certain amount of caution necessary – an astonishing feat in view of the nation wide shortage of domestic staff – had it not been for the fact that the same highly polished floor was mostly hidden by a huge Chinese rug in glowing blues and oranges. In addition to making it possible to move around the room with a relative degree of safety, it also did much to relieve a room which could otherwise have felt too cold or austere. Seated behind a large oak desk were two ladies who rose at their entrance and came to greet their guests.

The first was a tall, slender woman with glossy brown hair fixed in a knot at the nape of her neck, and the most amazing blue grey eyes that Steve had ever seen. Despite their current smiling pleasant expression Steve was reminded sharply of her own – and indeed Madge’s - old headmistress, and was very sure that these eyes could harden to squash even the most refractory of pupils – not of course that either Steve or Madge had been called to face that stare too often – “Well not as often as we should have done!” Steve could not help thinking with an inward chuckle at some of their – how should she put it – irregular escapades. Her voice, which as her pupils could have told you could wither grass when the occasion warranted, was low, deep and very pleasant as she introduced herself as “Miss Annersley – headmistress”, before pointing out the other lady in the room, and introducing her as Miss Wilson – Senior Mistress and my right hand”.

Miss Wilson was as tall as her companion and her face was curiously unlined given her thick head of white hair. As Steve looked more closely, however, she could just make out chestnut glints here and there and realised with a start of surprise that for the first time in her life she had come across that curious phenomenon of shock or grief turning hair white overnight. Steve simply could not help but wonder about the circumstances that led up to the change even whilst she was “Doing the Polite” as Paul rather reprehensibly called it.

Miss Wilson grinned impishly at Steve as they shook hands. Nothing ever escaped that lady as her pupils could and often did bewail. “It’s a long story Mrs Temple – about my hair I mean – but I’ll be more than happy to tell you about it should you decide to stay with us!”

Steve flushed and began to stammer her apologies, but Miss Wilson only laughed. “ Oh Please Mrs Temple, you mustn’t be so hard on yourself! I can assure you that it is the reaction of absolutely everyone who meets me for the first time!”

Fortunately, before Steve could suffer any further agonies of embarrassment, at that juncture there was an interruption as a miniature whirlwind breezed into the room crying “So sorry I’m late everyone!” and Joey Maynard, flushed from her haste, appeared, like the breath of fresh air that Miss Annersley had so often compared her and dropped like a stone into the nearest comfy chair.

Her rather unconventional entrance completely destroyed the formal air which had invested the little group and there was a air of relaxation - despite the seriousness of the situation – which had simply not existed. The changed atmosphere had all five ladies politely begging each of the others to dispense with surnames and soon they were Hilda, Nell. Madge, Steve and Joey. More chairs were drawn up by the fire, cigarettes proffered and accepted, and the offer of coffee politely declined for the time being.

“I’m not sure how much you know of our current situation” began Hilda Annersley before she was quickly by Madge “Nothing, actually Hilda. I thought it would be best if she heard it directly from the horse’s mouth as it were “ she added hastily as a slightly basilisk stare had come her way at the description. Hilda nodded her acknowledgement and continued “There have been several incidents recently which have well been rather worrying and to be frank we are not sure of the best way to proceed. We talked it over with Madge and she suddenly remembered you and thought you would be the ideal person.” She paused here and Steve said quietly “I’ll be happy to help in any way I can – perhaps if you could start at the beginning?” The question was left in the air as Hilda Annersley rather uncharacteristically hesitated for a moment before continuing in her usual clear, concise manner.

“What I am about to tell you is of course top secret, and cannot be discussed with anyone outside this room.”

Steve could not help but flick a quick glance at Joey – seemingly the odd one out in their little group. Once again Nell Wilson caught the glance and spoke softly. “Actually Steve – Joey has a higher security clearance than any of us.”
Author:  abbeybufo [ Tue Apr 15, 2008 9:25 pm ]
Post subject: 
Lovely Fi - like that Joey has higher security clearance than Steve :lol:
Author:  Elbee [ Tue Apr 15, 2008 9:48 pm ]
Post subject: 
Lovely to see more of this, and thanks for the name explanation earlier!
Author:  Miss Di [ Wed Apr 16, 2008 3:27 am ]
Post subject: 
Thanks for the update Fi, and I chortled at Joey's security clearance!
Author:  Lexi [ Wed Apr 16, 2008 3:27 pm ]
Post subject: 
abbeygirl wrote:
Steve made her weary way to Bedfordshire – as she had overheard one of the small fry calling it earlier


:oops: I still call it that sometimes

I've only just found this and it's brill. More please! :D
Author:  meerium [ Thu Apr 17, 2008 1:14 pm ]
Post subject: 
I'm another latecomer, and I've just read this beginning to end and am thoroughly enjoying it! Thanks, abbeygirl.
Author:  Shander [ Thu Apr 17, 2008 1:26 pm ]
Post subject: 
I'm wondering what Joey's up to in her spare time. Has she turned spy? Come to think of it, what is everyone else up to?
Author:  MaryR [ Thu Apr 17, 2008 6:22 pm ]
Post subject: 
Loved the basilisk stare! :lol: And Nell's reactions to Steve's thoughts...

Thanks, Fiona.
Author:  Tara [ Thu Apr 17, 2008 10:48 pm ]
Post subject: 
I've just found this, too - and I'm another old enough to remember him! Looking forward to hearing about the strange events. Love Miss A's voice being able to wither grass!
Thanks, Fiona.
Author:  abbeygirl [ Fri Apr 18, 2008 12:00 pm ]
Post subject: 
Glad to know some of you have found the light as it were - and like Paul Temple! What good taste you have! Thank you for reading and posting - its so encouraging....


“Actually Steve – Joey has a higher security clearance than any of us.”

Steve knew that appearances were often deceptive – particularly in wartime – but what on earth could Joey have done that was top secret? But Nell Wilson was a merciful woman and did not leave her long in suspense.

“Not long after the Chalet School was established, Madge was asked to hide the Belsornian Crown Princess Elisaveta from her cousin who was completely insane and had made a number of fairly unspeakable threats. Madge agreed – reluctantly – and to cut a long story short” - her explanation was halted by a very audible wince from the corner where Hilda Annersley sat - a “subtle” hint which was completely ignored by her friend who merely repeated the offending phrase before serenely continuing. “To cut a long story short… the cousin found out where she was, and Joey rescued her at some considerable risk to her own life. Ever since then she has been almost worshipped by the royalist section of the Belsornian population and so the government in England decided that she would be one of the few English people that stood a chance of setting up an organised resistance under the direct control of London.

Joey had said nothing whilst Nell had made her little speech. Joey herself never talked of that time – not just because of the security issues – but because of the ever present guilt. She knew she had had to go – if nothing else there was a chance such an organisation might help Vita and Raphael – and as Nell had said she was the best person – perhaps indeed the only person in England that could have pulled it off. But it was while she was away that Margot had contracted that dreadful bout of bronchitis that had left her so delicate and fragile. In her heart Joey knew it would have made no difference – Madge had been more than capable of looking after her – but the guilt of not being there when one of her babies needed her and the ever present thought that maybe – if she had been there, a mother’s love might have made all the difference, ate away at her. Joey had vowed that whatever she had to do to make it up to Margot would be done. If her daughter was only to have short life, she would ensure it would be a happy one.
“I’m sorry Joey – I didn’t understand” said Steve softly, reacting to the deep sadness she saw engraved on the younger woman’s face, even without knowing the reason. “But how glad you must have been to have had the chance to strike a blow against the Nazi’s yourself. Usually all we can do as women is to send our men into danger and wait – and hope – that they come back to us.”

“We are very proud of Joey” agreed Hilda softly. “I’m afraid our role has of necessity been slightly more desk bound, but we can only do what we are asked to do, as best we can.”

Joey shook herself mentally and sloughed off the unaccustomed mood of depression. She smiled her brilliant smile at Steve and in a return to the jaunty manner more often associated with the young Mrs Maynard, turned to Hilda and with a wicked glint in her black eyes, invited her former headmistress to “spill the beans” .

After an admonitory stare at Joey, Hilda began her story. “A few weeks ago a couple – calling themselves Smith - ”

“How original!” murmured Madge in what she had clearly – if erroneously – believed to have been a sotto voce comment.

A raised eyebrow was sufficient to inform her of her mistake and she subsided into her chair, blushing wildly.

“called on the school, ostensibly to ask about a place for their daughter. We thought nothing of it of course until they mentioned that they had lived on Erisay for a while and had known the MacDonalds. They had heard that the younger McDonalds had come to the Chalet school and wanted to know if this was indeed the case, as they thought it would be nice for their daughter to have ready made acquaintances. We were naturally a bit taken aback, but had to confirm that they were in fact pupils here – after all it was not supposed to be a secret, and we thought it would do more harm than good to make a mystery of their presence. However, they didn’t stay much longer than that and we haven’t heard from them since, which is slightly surprising if indeed they were that anxious about their daughter finding old friends at school.” Hilda continued seamlessly.

“They could of course simply changed their mind about sending their daughter to any school” put in Steve.

“Exactly!” agreed Nell – “but two days later, the school was wakened by a dormitory of screaming juniors. When Matey went to investigate, Joy Leigh claimed to have seen a white face at the window. No-one else had seen anything though, and apparently that form has been sleeping rather restlessly recently – nightmares and the like and Matey thought it was all part of the same thing. Which of course it could have been.” She admitted ruefully. “Then finally there was the burglar – Robin and Mary – two of our seniors – heard noises in the Upper Second form rooms – where the children have their lockers and very naughtily went to explore. Obviously they should have come straight to me, but they didn’t. They disturbed a man who had apparently been looking through the lockers. He gave an exclamation – which Robin swears sounded foreign – and was chased through the garden. Incidentally he ended up in the fountain and Robin decided it would be a suitable punishment to turn the water on..”

A splutter – quickly suppressed - interrupted Nell’s recital.

“and it was really that which decided us something needed to be done. Because when we came to look around more closely, none of the doors or windows had been forced. Karen is fanatical about locking up every night, and she always takes one of the maids round with her to make sure she doesn’t miss anything. Both of them are positive they did the same that night – so .”

“Someone in the school must have let him in” finished Steve “I see.”
Author:  JB [ Fri Apr 18, 2008 12:18 pm ]
Post subject: 
I hadn't heard of Paul Temple before this. I'm really enjoying this and I liked the serialisation on Radio 7 recently.
Author:  abbeybufo [ Fri Apr 18, 2008 3:39 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Fi - getting to the nitty gritty now . . . :lol:
Author:  Tara [ Fri Apr 18, 2008 11:14 pm ]
Post subject: 
Am beginning to bite nails. This is really exciting - and what a clever and poignant twist re. Margot.

Thanks, Abbeygirl.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Fri Apr 18, 2008 11:51 pm ]
Post subject: 
Aha - the plot is definitely starting to thicken. Thanks, Abbeygirl, I'm continuing to enjoy this.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sat Apr 19, 2008 1:43 pm ]
Post subject: 
Love all the twists and turns this is taking. It's certainly fitting well with the books.

And thanks for the background about Steve and Paul Temple
Author:  abbeygirl [ Sat Apr 19, 2008 10:10 pm ]
Post subject: 
“Exactly” agreed Nell wryly “You see our dilemma.” And Steve did. If there was a spy then he or she needed to be stopped – as soon as possible – but bringing in someone from the outside – if they could get anyone to believe there was something worth investigating – would immediately put the spy on his or her guard and they would have the devil’s own job flushing them out.

“I believe” said Steve slowly “that I might just have an idea.”

“Go on” said Nell encouragingly.

“Well one of my other hats is a sort of roving assignment to the Ministry of Information. I write patriotic articles every now and then and pamphlets and I wondered if we could suggest that I had come to write up a piece on how our nations schoolgirls are facing up to the challenge of war. It could cover the gardens, your air shelters, how they cope cheerfully every day with the privations of war that sort of thing. It would mean that I could wander around the school as much as I wanted and ask questions without arousing any suspicions and if they know I’m a friend of Madge that would explain why I was given the all clear to do this. So what do you think?” Steve asked a bit nervously.

“Its absolutely brilliant!” exclaimed Joey and the approving murmurs that came from all corners of the room suggested that they were all in agreement.

“The Ministry is always on the look out for new recipes as well so I could use that to gain access to the domestic staff – You never know we might even get a Chalet school cook book out of it!” finished Steve with a chuckle. Her attention was caught by a smothered exclamation from Joey at this and she enquired anxiously “What’s the matter Joey – is there something wrong?”

“Oh no!” Joey replied “You’ve just given me a bit of an idea for the future though.”

……….

Joey soon excused herself – she was expecting Rosalie Dene the School secretary later on and didn’t like to leave the children too long even though Rob was there to hold the fort. Madge too, said she had to get back to the Round House and it was agreed that Hilda, who was free from teaching duties for the rest of the day, would show Steve around the school and settle her into staff accommodation. She would miss staying with Madge and that lovely room, but she needed to be on the spot if she was to carry out her job properly and she comforted herself with the thought that after it was all over there would be time for a proper visit. Whatever happened though, Steve would not leave it as long before renewing her friendship with Madge again.

………

It was just gone seven as the chiming of the small clock on Hilda Annersley’s desk had just revealed. Steve, Hilda and Nell sat in a relaxed attitude in her study just finishing a glass of good sherry before supper and what they had all decided would be Steve’s introduction to the school at large – both staff and pupils. As the chimes faded away the small party opened the door and made their way down to the dining room.

Just as they had reached the main hall, which they had to cross to reach their destination, there was a little stir beyond the green baize door that shut off the kitchen regions from the rest of the house, and then it opened, and Evan Evans, the head gardener at Plas Howell, appeared, carrying in his arms a limp body. Nell gave a shocked exclamation as she recognised the owner of the fair hair and big blue coat with its collar and cuffs of fox fur. It was Miss Dene – lying there limp, unresisting and to all appearance dead!
Author:  roversgirl [ Sat Apr 19, 2008 10:15 pm ]
Post subject: 
Not a cliff! Thanks for the update :)
Author:  Tara [ Sat Apr 19, 2008 11:04 pm ]
Post subject: 
Aaagh! Perhaps we'll have a better explanation now than the books ever offered!
Thanks for the update.
Author:  abbeybufo [ Sun Apr 20, 2008 12:06 pm ]
Post subject: 
Poor Rosalie! What she's suffered between the two of us . . . :twisted: [3 I suppose if you count EBD herself!]

Thanks Fi :D
Author:  MaryR [ Sun Apr 20, 2008 3:43 pm ]
Post subject: 
abbeybufo wrote:
Poor Rosalie! What she's suffered between the two of us . . . :twisted:

Sure you didn't cook it up between you, Ruth? :twisted:

Steve cooks up some pretty comprehensive reasons for being there - and then immediately stumbles on a mystery which even EBD couldn't explain properly. :lol:
Author:  Rosalin [ Sun Apr 20, 2008 7:38 pm ]
Post subject: 
Looking forward to finding out what really happened to Rosalie.

Thanks Fiona, this is excellent.
Author:  PaulineS [ Sun Apr 20, 2008 8:19 pm ]
Post subject: 
My poor nails between the drabbles are going to be none existant.
Author:  Miss Di [ Mon Apr 21, 2008 3:24 am ]
Post subject: 
I always wondered what really happend to Rosalie when she was chased up the drive. Hope you can tell us Fiona!
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Mon Apr 21, 2008 4:41 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks, am really enjoying this
Author:  abbeygirl [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 7:09 am ]
Post subject: 
With a swift prayer of thanks for her guide training, Nell quickly organised a stretcher but despite her willingness to take charge of the situation, could not help but give a heartfelt sigh of relief when Matron appeared as if from nowhere. Nell spared a second to wonder at Matey’s omniscience. How did she know when there was something up! It never ceased to amaze Nell. But she dismissed her wandering thoughts, and concentrated her attention on getting Rosalie up to the San and into Matey’s safe hands.

“Nein! No! Bitte!” cried Rosalie pleadingly as she restlessly moved around. She was still unconscious but evidently reliving whatever had befallen her. Jem had been called with some urgency and, tearing himself away from the San, he had motored down to the school to examine her.

“I don’t think there is anything seriously wrong” he explained to the small group anxiously waiting for news. “She had obviously been under some considerable strain, but I don’t want her getting too excited so I’ve given her a small dose and she should calm down soon. I’ll pop in again tomorrow but I am fairly sure she will be fine. Ride her gently for a few days, light diet, and no work at all, I know what Rosalie is like and she needs the time to recover properly.” And with those few words he left to return to another patient - one whose recovery was by no means so assured despite his best efforts.

Rosalie slept the clock round and a little bit more and woke feeling much better. She blinked a little as she opened her eyes to find herself in these unfamiliar surroundings, and then shuddered as memory returned, bringing with it the ghastly experiences of last night to haunt her.

“You’re awake then dear” came Matey’s comforting voice, and suddenly Rosalie felt safe again – “absurd really” she thought to herself, but was grateful for the sensation nonetheless.

Rosalie choked down the lightly boiled egg Matey had provided, and enjoyed the cup of milky coffee that accompanied it. Once it was finished Matey examined her closely and asked if she felt up to talking. Rosalie shuddered, but knew it would have to be faced sooner or later and it would be better to get it over and done with now.

To her surprise, in addition to Hilda, Nell and Joey - who was naturally worried as Rosalie had been to tea with her before her experience – there was another lady – a complete stranger to Rosalie. Hilda noted her air of bewilderment but simply introduced her as Steve Trent, a friend of Madame. Rosalie gathered her courage and explained exactly what had happened to her the night before.


*******


“As you know I had to catch the bus from Joey’s house. The bus driver set me down at Williams-the-lodge and I was sure he would see me safely up to the house. As you know I’m not that good at walking in the dark on my own! So you can imagine my horror when Mrs Williams said he’d gone out for the evening and wouldn’t be back until ten o’clock! She couldn’t leave the children and I couldn’t wait until then as I knew if I did you’d be worried. The phone line to the school was out of order, so I borrowed a torch from Mrs Williams and set out. My torch gave out fairly soon – but I knew I would be fine because I had Mrs Williams, but I don’t know what happened because she said she’d only just charged the battery but it went out just seconds later. It was so dark! And then I felt it, someone near me, almost close enough to touch. I don’t know what he wanted – he tracked me all the way down the drive and I knew he was just waiting for the best time to make his move and I knew I had to run for my life but it couldn’t be too soon and I didn’t know where I was and I had to guess and I got to where I thought the lawn started and I just ran and ran until my lungs ached and I thought I was going to die then and there. I felt his hand reach out and touch my shoulder. And then…” Rosalie stopped and swallowed hard. “And then..”
Author:  abbeybufo [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 7:17 am ]
Post subject: 
Oooooh!! A veritable cliff :shock:

Thanks Fi :lol:
Author:  Mona [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 7:48 am ]
Post subject: 
Thanks for the update - please don't leave us on the edge of this cliff too long!
Author:  Elbee [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 7:51 am ]
Post subject: 
"And then....." Yes, and then ??? Please make sure you always finish your sentences :lol:

Thanks Abbeygirl.
Author:  JB [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 8:03 am ]
Post subject: 
Please come back and finish that sentence!
Author:  Rosalin [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 9:22 am ]
Post subject: 
Poor Rosalie. Thank goodness for the omniscience of Matey.

So what happened next?

Thanks Fiona.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 1:00 pm ]
Post subject: 
You can't leave us there. Methinks you've been hanging out with Lesley for too long :lol: :wink:
Author:  Tara [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 10:40 pm ]
Post subject: 
That is just mean! :D
I enjoyed Matey dispensing comfort to all, mainly Rosalie, of course, but even Nell is so reassured and relieved by her presence. Liked the hints of Jem's other life and greater responsibilities, too.
Did not like the cliff! This can only be expiated by a very quick update!
Author:  di [ Sat Apr 26, 2008 10:50 am ]
Post subject: 
'and then... ' ??? Please don't leave us in suspense for too long, abbeygirl. I also have just read this from the beginning and am thoroughly enjoying it. I vaguely remember Paul Temple and love thrillers and spy stories so this is just 'up my street'!
Looking forward to the next installment.
Author:  abbeygirl [ Sun Apr 27, 2008 1:54 pm ]
Post subject: 
I hadn't actually meant to leave you dangling this long, but I did warn you earlier that Paul Temple did do cliffs!


And then…” Rosalie stopped and swallowed hard. “And then..” Hilda gently put an encouraging hand on her shoulder and, fortified by the comfort offered, she continued, “he pulled me round to face him. He started speaking – said something like ‘Warum laufst du weg? Ich Bin’s! Wir haben eine verabreding, nicht?” There was a concerted gasp as the women in the room realised the significance of the words. Joey rapidly translated for Steve – whose German was strictly of my brother has a book stage – “Why are you running away? It’s me! We have an appointment no?”

Rosalie continued, now lost in the recollection of the previous night “then he shone the light full in my face. I tried to cover my eyes – the light was blinding – and then he gave an exclamation “Verdammt! Sie ist nicht die richtige!” (….. This is not the right one!). Then I could feel him raise his arm – the one with the torch and I knew he was going to hit me with it. I shouted No! Nein! Please! But I knew it was no good. I struggled harder but he was so strong! But just as I thought that was it, there were footsteps on the gravel and Evan Evans was shouting “Put that light out!” and he started to come towards us. The man swore and pushed me aside and I knew I was safe again and it was all too much. I could feel my legs buckle and I fell – the last thing I heard was Evan Evans exclaiming something in Welsh, and I don’t remember anything else until Matey woke me this morning.” She had borne up bravely under the telling, but as she finished her story, her face suddenly crumbled and the tears fell. Her sobs were violent, seeming to have been wrenched out of her, almost against her will. Matey allowed them to continue for a while unchecked, hopeful that the violent explosion of feeling would help Rosalie recover, but when they showed signs of becoming hysterical, stepped in.

“Come now Rosalie – that’s enough now”

The calm authority in her voice and the habit of implicit obedience to matron’s dictates was sufficient, and with a considerable effort, Rosalie pulled herself together, even managing a somewhat watery smile.
Author:  abbeybufo [ Sun Apr 27, 2008 2:45 pm ]
Post subject: 
Good to see the story coming along so nicely . . . :lol:

Thanks Fi
Author:  di [ Sun Apr 27, 2008 3:17 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks abbeygirl.
Author:  abbeygirl [ Sun Apr 27, 2008 4:51 pm ]
Post subject: 
And because I am nice like that - here is a little bit more.....

“I wonder if this is anything to do with the MacDonald twins.” Rosalie’s softly spoken enquiry caused an immediate hush amongst the gaggle of women by her bed. “I’m sorry Rosalie – what was that?” Hilda Annersley was the first to recover her composure – as might have been expected.

“I just thought” faltered her secretary “that they were the only new girls this term and nothing had happened before then, and that burglar was searching the second form lockers after all.”

“My dear!” said Miss Annersely indulgently “What on earth do you think two twelve year old girls could possibly have that would interest the Germans!”

Rosalie flushed, but persisted “Perhaps they have a secret map or documents or something from their home – and that might be of interest to the Germans now Erisay has been taken over by the Admiralty.”

“It’s highly unlikely, don’t you think? Even if such a thing did exist, no one would entrust it to two twelve year old girls for safekeeping. I think we must look elsewhere for an explanation of recent events. We can’t even be sure that they are really linked.”

Hilda held a hand up as she could see Rosalie prepared to continue to argue that point “Yes I know that it seems likely that they are, but we will have to make certain of that – there is no point in jumping to conclusion.”

Rosalie remained visibly unconvinced but knew her headmistress well enough not to bother to argue any further.

“And now, we will leave you to Matron’s tender mercies. I don’t expect to see you back at work before next week at the earliest, and I expect Matron has plans to keep you in the San for a few days.” And the four women – sans Matron – prepared to leave the room. They were halted by a sudden outburst from Rosalie.

“Oh No!” exclaimed Rosalie and as Hilda and Nell turned back to her in astonishment.

“Rosalie – Whatever?” began Hilda in some surprise.

Blushing furiously Rosalie gabbled “No- please I want to go back to my own bed – I’ll be much happier there – and I want to get back to work – if I just lie here thinking about … about the attack … I’ll go mad! Please” Rosalie was pleading now and becoming more upset.

Hilda looked to Matey for her opinion and that worthy lady summed up the situation with the ease of long experience and decided that enforcing her edict probably would do Rosalie more harm than good. She decided to compromise

“If you stay here for the rest of the day so that I can keep an eye on you, I’ll let you go back to your own room tonight. You may go back to work if you really must – but only part time for the rest of the week. I’ll examine you every night and if I think it is doing any damage to your health then I’ll put my foot down.” Her tone was brisk and matter of fact, but her eyes were kind and Rosalie heaved a sigh of real relief.

“Thank you Matey” she sighed. “I’ll be good – I promise”

This time the four women really did make it out of the door. They managed not to make any remarks until they were safely back in Hilda’s study and then let themselves go with some vigour. Only Steve remained silent as the others argued forcefully and eventually Joey asked her directly “Well Steve – what did you think of Rosalie’s story?” and Steve looked thoughtfully at her for a moment before replying “I thought it was very …. interesting… very interesting indeed.”
Author:  abbeybufo [ Sun Apr 27, 2008 5:01 pm ]
Post subject: 
Now was Hilda a bit too quick there to try and keep Rosalie quiet about the map :?

*goes off for a reread to see if she knows about it already*
Author:  MaryR [ Sun Apr 27, 2008 6:50 pm ]
Post subject: 
Quote:
Hilda Annersley was the first to recover her composure – as might have been expected.

With Matey there? :shock: Thought she never cracked!! :lol:

Not surprised Rosalie didn't want to be left to her own devices. And what has Steve got up her sleeve, I wonder....

Thanks, Fiona
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Sun Apr 27, 2008 8:39 pm ]
Post subject: 
It's a long while since I read Highland Twins, and I don't have time to go and look now, but I don't *think* Hilda knew about the map when Rosalie was attacked. I do stand to be corrected on that, though - have *you* had chance to look it up, Abbeybufo?

I'm certainly not surprised Rosalie didn't want to be left alone with her thoughts! I also think Steve's antennae may have already been alerted, given where her husband is at the moment.

Thanks, Fiona - I shall be looking forward to more of this.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sun Apr 27, 2008 8:44 pm ]
Post subject: 
I don't think Hilda did cos no one knew until the twins disappeared and they refused to tell anyone except for Joey. Didn't Joey tell them off for it?
Author:  Tara [ Sun Apr 27, 2008 10:41 pm ]
Post subject: 
I, too, wondered whether Hilda was protesting too much, and can't remember the book in enough detail, but I suppose it does sound unlikley that the twins should be involved in anything like that.

I am so pleased to know at last what happened to Rosalie, and Matey is really lovely, a bastion of good sense and comfort.

Thank you, Abbeygirl.
Author:  di [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 6:10 am ]
Post subject: 
If my mind is working properly this morning I'm sure Flora and 'Fauna' had the map. And the mystery person the Germans were waiting for was Betty Wynne-Davis I think. Poor Rosalie, getting mistaken for THAT young woman!! :roll:
Thanks Abbeygirl.
Author:  Miss Di [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 7:03 am ]
Post subject: 
Hmph. I am very suss of Matey. Why is she always so jolly on the spot? :twisted:

Thanks for all the updates and please write some more!
Author:  PaulineS [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 5:31 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks for the updates. Only the twin and Betty know about the map until twins go missing.
Author:  abbeygirl [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 6:49 pm ]
Post subject: 
I’ve had to nick a fair bit of Highland here, and for the next few posts. I’ve put it in italics and have snipped big chunks and condensed big bits so is not identical. But there is no help for it as it is essential for the story!


The term had not begun well for Betty Wynne-Davies. She was still suffering the loss of her former best friend Elizabeth Arnett – a pupil who had formerly been Betty’s partner in crime but thanks to the influence of Gillian Linton, had realised the error of her ways, and at the ripe age of 17 had matured into a responsible and reliable member of the Chalet School. Betty missed Elizabeth, but refused to grow up with her, instead dismissing her new outlook on life as too goody goody and Pi for words. Although Betty – a strong and when she chose, charming, character - had outwardly replaced Elizabeth with a small coterie of her own, inwardly she admitted to herself that they were not the same, but rather than attempt a change herself, she merely grew more and more embittered and “agin the government” than ever. Unfortunately several incidents since the beginning of term had set her at odds with the Macdonald twins, culminating in a scene which saw Betty lose her temper completely and strike Fiona, just before a special assembly called by Miss Annersley was due to take place.

The school had been electrified by the appearance of Emmie and Joanne Linders, former pupils who had managed a most daring escape from Nazi Germany, and were most anxious to tell their story to the current generation of Chalet School pupils. When she had heard what they had to say, and after consulting with Nell Wilson, Miss Annersley gave them permission to do so.

“After all” she remarked to her friend and cohort “we do not want to shield them from all unpleasantness. Their fathers and brothers are fighting in this dreadful war and this might, perhaps, help them to understand why such sacrifices are necessary.”

Nell agreed, adding wickedly “And we don’t want them to grow up like spineless jellyfish!” and Hilda’s mood, which had been dark, lightened at the remembrance of one of Matey’s more flamboyant exhortations, just as Nell had intended.

Thus it was, after elevenses a few days after this conversation and with the Juniors still seething at the treatment meted out so unjustly to one of their own, the School assembled in the big double drawing-room which served as the Assembly Hall. When they were all settled, Emmie got up from where she had been sitting between Robin and Lorenz Maïco, and began at once.

‘I want to tell you something first,’ she said in a clear voice. ‘That is, that we must all unite to kill the evil thing called Nazism which has infected my country. It is of the devil—come from Hell. The world can never be right until it is gone, and the men who made it are gone also. Some of you who are here already know this, for you have met it already. Others only know of it from what they have heard. But I tell you that nothing you have heard—nothing!—can ever really show you how terrible it is. One must live with it to learn that, as Joanna and I have lived with it.

Emmie’s tale of escape, endurance and suffering had the entire hall enthralled until the very end when she finished on an impassioned note.

‘I cannot tell what you have done with our vow that we all signed in Tyrol. But I tell you this. That if it costs our lives, Joanna and I will keep it, for had it not been for the memory of it and our kind School we should never have had the courage to go on as we did, and so come to safety.’

She ceased, and there was a moment’s silence as she sat down. Then the Head rose quickly.

‘We all thank Emmie for her story,’ she said. ‘I am sure that to tell it required as much real courage as enduring the adventures of which she has told us, and those which she has not told us, must have done. So far as the pledge is concerned, only Joey Maynard knows now where it is. But she has it safely, I know. But we keep it secret, for there are many girls who signed it and who are still in enemy country, so it must not fall into the wrong hands.’

‘Shust like our Chart of Erisay that holds the secrets of Erisay, and which we keep hidden,’ murmured Flora to her next-door neighbour, Nancy.
Author:  abbeybufo [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 7:00 pm ]
Post subject: 
This is slotting into Highhland Twins beautifully :D

So Steve was there at the assembly to hear Emmie, was she? That will give her more pause for thought . . .

Thanks Fi
Author:  Tara [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 10:48 pm ]
Post subject: 
Quote:
Nell agreed, adding wickedly “And we don’t want them to grow up like spineless jellyfish!” and Hilda’s mood, which had been dark, lightened at the remembrance of one of Matey’s more flamboyant exhortations, just as Nell had intended.

Love it!
That was a powerful bit of Highland, still gives me goosebumps.
Author:  di [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 5:43 am ]
Post subject: 
Thanks, abbeygirl, I'd forgotten that part of 'Highland' It'll be interesting to find out what Steve makes of it all
Author:  Rosalin [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 11:08 am ]
Post subject: 
Intriguing. And I love the way it all works with Highland Twins.

Thanks Fiona.
Author:  abbeygirl [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 9:25 pm ]
Post subject: 
This is a bit more mostly from Highland Twins - Ive condensed and edited it as far as I can but what's left has to be there for the sake of the story. The next post after this is mostly me though! I've now edited to make a very long post, to get back to me so I'm sorry if its too long.

WHAT did you mean by the Chart of Erisay, and what secrets does it hold, Flora?’ The voice was Vanna Ozanne’s, and Betty Wynne-Davies, who had been lounging in a big chair with a book in which she was not really interested, dropped it, and listened.

‘I shouldn’t haf said anything,’ came Flora’s Highland tones. ‘It iss a secret in our family, and Archie and Shiena wouldt be angry with me if they knew I had spoken of it. Pleass ton’t ask me, for I mustn’t talk of it. Fiona wass fery angry with me on Saturday, she says Archie and Shiena wouldt be fery angry inteet if we talked of it. It iss a family secret, and we wouldt nefer haf known of it if Archie were not away, and we had to leaf Erisay, so that Shiena couldt not leaf it there. And now she iss away, too, so she said Fiona and I must haf it and take care of it for them.’

Left alone, and unsuspected, Betty stretched and yawned. ‘What a lot of fuss about nothing!’ she thought disdainfully as she lounged out of the room. ‘Just like those little Highland idiots! Still, it might be interesting to see this old Chart of theirs. I wonder what there is that’s so secret about it? Flora said that little wretch of a Fauna would be mad if anyone ever saw it. I owe that kid one for her cheek to me. I’ve a good mind to try and get hold of the thing and show it round our set. That would give her something to think about.’ Betty smiled disagreeably to herself, and went on to join the faithful Floppy and two or three others of the same type.


*********

The Seniors set off down the drive, all laughing and chattering gaily, glad of the fresh air after the three long days in the house, in preparation for a long walk.

Betty Wynne-Davies and Floppy Williams were last in the procession, with Hilda Hope, the third member of their set in the Sixth, in front of them, paired off with Myfanwy Tudor, the School’s musical genius. When they reached the meadowland, Hilda promptly left her partner, whom she called ‘stuffy and slow,’ and joined Betty and Floppy. Once the three were together, they left the footpath, and sauntered slowly along in the wake of the rest, gossiping among themselves. Presently Floppy happened to mention Flora and Fiona. Betty scowled at the names, and her black brows drew together into an equally black frown.

‘Oh, do dry up about those wretched kids!’ she snapped. ‘I’m sick of the sound of their names. They’re a pair of spoilt, cheeky, impossible brats! Why on earth there should be all this interest in them is more than I can say. It’s high time someone took them both down a peg or two.’

‘Well, don’t yell like that, or everyone else will hear you. And you know as well as I do that if anyone heard you’d smacked Fiona’s face you’d get into a nice fuss for bullying—you know what they are!’

‘Smacked her face?’ gasped Hilda. ‘Good gracious, Bets, you surely didn’t do that?’

‘Well, I did, if you want to know,’ snapped Betty. ‘And not before it was deserved, either. In one way, I suppose they’re scarcely to blame for being as they are. They seem to have lived all their lives on some weird little island in the Hebrides, and never seen anyone decent. Flora said something about a chart of the island which is kept a secret—or has been till now, when they’ve all been cleared out by the Government. She said that Shiena had charge of it as the eldest brother, who is owner of Erisay now, I suppose, is in the Air Force, and couldn’t very well have it with him. But Shiena’s joined the W.R.N.S., so she gave it to Flora and Fauna to take care of.’

Betty’s voice was clear and ringing, and carried easily through the trees, now almost bare of their leaves, since the storm of the past three days had brought down most of what had remained. A man who was coming down the avenue from the house heard her words, and his eyes lit up with a sudden light

Betty was talking again, and he listened.

‘Oh, I don’t know what there can be—some secret entrance to the Great House, as they call it, I expect. Whatever it is, I bet the Ozannes, or half a dozen like them, won’t get it out of Flora and Fauna. For one thing, they won’t go the right way to work to get it.’

Something in her tones made Floppy turn and look at her. ‘Betty! You mean to have a shot at getting it yourself!’ she accused her.

Betty laughed. ‘Of course I do. I’ve got as much curiosity as most folk, and Flora was so hush-hush over the thing I feel I simply must see it. What are you looking at me like that for, Floppy? There’s nothing wrong in wanting to see an old chart like that. I shan’t hurt the thing.’

At this point they met the stranger, and he glanced at them. He saw three biggish girls—one fair and graceful, with a kind of empty prettiness in her face; one stout and flushed, and not in the least pretty; the third, dark, vivid, and with an air which told him that this must be the leader of the trio. She was looking at her flushed companion with a little smile of scornful amusement on her lips, but her eyes were angry.

‘Not a pleasant person, Miss Betty,’ thought the man as he passed them, and went on down the avenue until he was out of sight. Then, moving with cat-like silence, he doubled on his tracks, and was soon close behind them, among the trees. He wanted to learn if ‘Betty’ had any plans for getting hold of the chart. It was urgent for his superiors to have it, and he had an idea that if he could make an ally of this girl, it might ease his work considerably. It was clear enough that she disliked the McDonald children whole-heartedly, especially the one they had called ‘Fawna.’

Steve kept a careful watch over the next few days, but as far as she could see the Chalet School was a model of boarding school life. She was helped on and off by the others, but they all had other responsibilities and hence much of the burden of spy watching was hers alone. In all honesty though she hadn’t expected anything different, the spy – and indeed his accomplice – must have known about the storm they had raised and would be aware that everyone would be watching closely. No agent worth his or her salt would run the risk of attracting attention to themselves just now.

One morning, the twins were handed a letter and uncertainly, for they did not recognise the handwriting, and the postmark was too blurred to be made out, they opened it. A piece of bright blue paper, neatly folded, was inside. Flora opened it out, and Fiona hung eagerly over her sister’s shoulder to read the few words written in an angular hand. The twins stood staring from the letter to each other in a stricken way. Then Fiona, with a big effort, recovered herself a little and told their chums ‘It’s—it’s shust something we didn’t expect,’ she said flatly. ‘Come along, Flora; I want you.’

They made off, leaving their compeers to gaze after them in wonder.

Meantime, in a bathroom where they had bolted themselves in in complete defiance of rules, the twins were facing each other with frightened eyes and quivering lips, in silence at first. Then Fiona broke it.

‘Flora—oh, Flora! It’s the Erisay Chart they want!’

It took some time for the twins to pull themselves together, and by then the lesson – arithmetic with Miss Edwards was more than half over. They thought longingly about missing it altogether – neither was anxious to face an angry mistress – but realised they would have to face it sooner or later – and so made their way slowly back to class. They were right to have been so worried. Miss Edwards was fuming and in no mood to listen to anything but a full explanation for their absence. Flora and Fiona bit their lips and hung their heads under the onslaught, but even as they fouight back the tears, they remembered that they had promised Shienna never to tell – and a Macdonlad always kept their word. Not even the intervention of Matron could make them break their vow, and in the end, Matron took them into her room and told them in no uncertain terms that they were extremely silly children, and that they would stay there with her until they decided to explain. The hours passed and the twins did not give in. Finally, when it looked as if they might have to spend the whole night in matron’s room – although goodness knew where! – Flora had a brainwave.

‘Pleass, Matron, we can’t tell you or anyone at school; but couldt we tell Mistress Maynard? She wouldt understand, and it might pe petter.’

‘If you think Mrs Maynard has nothing else to do but run about after babies like you, you’re making a bad mistake,’ said Matron severely,
but privately decided that this might not actually be a bad idea. Having said they should stay in her room till they told her where they had been and what they had been doing, she couldn’t very well go back on her words. At the same time, no more than they did she want them for the night there, and it began to look as if that might be the outcome of this. If Jo could help, it might be just as well to let her.

After an anxious wait, there came the sound of swift, springy steps down the corridor, and a rap at the door, which opened to show Jo herself, clad in her big coat and brown beret. With one accord, the twins hurled themselves on her.

‘Mistress Maynard, oh Mistress Maynard! We wanted you so badly!’

Jo was startled, as well she might be, at the warmth of her welcome, but she rose nobly to it. Flinging her arms round the twins, she swept them to one side, crying, ‘Twins! What is wrong with you? Wait a moment, and I’ll see to it!”

Still clasping the twins, Jo led them from the room and went down the corridor in search of a room where they could be private, and they had to go with her. She paused before a door, tapped at it, and then opened it, and pulled them in despite their protests.

‘I know it’s Miss Wilson’s room,’ she said calmly, ‘but she’s gone into Armiford for the day, and she’d be sure to say I might use it. So stop arguing, and tell me what has gone wrong with you. Why were you in Matey’s room? And why did you greet me with such rapture?’

“We haf had a letter from the burglar – the one who knocked down Miss Dene , and that iss why we are in trouple.’ Explained Fiona “See” and she offered the sheet that had upset them so for Joey to look at. That lady scanned the words on it, and raised her brows. ‘I’m sorry, Fiona. I suppose it’s Gaelic; but it’s Greek to me. You’ll have to explain, my child. I know no Gaelic at all. What is it?’

‘It iss, “Place the Chart of Erisay on the old horse-block, or it will pe the worse for you,”’ said Flora gravely.

‘The Chart of Erisay?’ A light gleamed in Jo’s eyes. Now you must explain the whole thing, you two. What is the Chart? And where is it?’

‘It iss a Chart which shows all the caves, and the houses, and the rivers, and eferything on Erisay,’ said Fiona. ‘But most of all it shows where are Na Clachan Dannsa – the Dancing Stones - and how the place where they are leads into the Great House.’

Jo sat in stunned silence for a moment, clearly this was the secret the Spy had been after – Rosalie had been right after all! “It was the Macdonald twins!” The chart must be secured immediately – and the Admiralty notified. This would be a job for Steve…

“Joey – Joey Maynard!” a voice was calling her insistently from the corridor and with a muttered word of apology to the visibly relieved twins, Joey left them for a moment. The caller was Steve herself, and when Jo saw this, she steeped out into the corridor and pulled the door behind her, so that the two children would not hear her. That this was a wise precaution was revealed just moment later.

“Joey – I must talk to you “Steve began breathlessly “ I’ve just had a telephone call from Paul. They have just discovered a body on Erisay!
Author:  Tara [ Thu May 01, 2008 10:57 pm ]
Post subject: 
:shock: :shock: :shock:
This is really nail-biting!
I'd forgotten the bit where Matey keeps them in her room and I don't know whom I'm more sorry for, Matey or the twins - she painted herself into a corner there!
Giggled over Joey's calm appropriation of Miss Wilson's room - how very typical :D . Just as well she was around, though.

Thanks, abbeygirl.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Fri May 02, 2008 1:02 am ]
Post subject: 
Oh my goodness!! The plot is certainly thickening! Seriously, I do like the way you are blending your own story with that in Highland Twins and will be anxiously awaiting developments. Please don't leave us in suspense for too long.

Thank you, Abbeygirl.
Author:  Rosalin [ Fri May 02, 2008 8:50 am ]
Post subject: 
Gulp! Please let us know what happens quickly. This certainly is nail-biting.

Thanks Fiona.
Author:  abbeybufo [ Fri May 02, 2008 9:31 am ]
Post subject: 
Ooooh! :shock: real nail-biting stuff here, Fi - thanks!

And it still fits in so beautifully with HT :D
Author:  PaulineS [ Fri May 02, 2008 11:41 am ]
Post subject: 
Thanks for the update and the way it links to the Highland twins.
Author:  di [ Fri May 02, 2008 4:04 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks again for an enthralling story and the clever way you've merged it with 'Highland' makes it a great read. :)
Author:  abbeygirl [ Fri May 02, 2008 7:49 pm ]
Post subject: 
“Joey – I must talk to you “Steve began breathlessly “ I’ve just had a telephone call from Paul. They have just discovered a body on Erisay – they think it is an old servant of the Macdonalds – but although they got hold of Archie to identify the body, I’m afraid he was pretty badly beaten up so Archie couldn’t definitely identify him. But they think he must have talked before he died – and Joey - Archie says there is some kind of a secret family map somewhere and that must have been why they tortured him. We have to assume he talked and as the body was well hidden – obviously not meant to be found for a while – if ever – he could have been dead for a while. The Nazis could be on the track of the map right now!”

“I think I might be able to help you there!” said Joey irrepressibly and she drew an astonished Steve into the room. The twins looked startled, but when Joey explained that Steve was completely trustworthy, relaxed and agreed to take both of them to where the document was hidden. ‘Come on, you people! The bell will ring for lunch soon, and you may as well make your peace with Matey and Teddy—I—I mean with Matron and Miss Edwards—before that. We must get the Chart first, and I’ll stow it away. Then I’ll come with you to apologise, and you’ll find it’ll be all right for you.’

The twins led the way up the stairs to the very top of the house; and there, in a little box-room opening out of one of the attics, they brought to Jo and Steve the steel box in which they had stuffed their precious Chart. Jo took it out, glanced at it without unfolding it, and then stuffed it up her blouse—there was still a good deal of the schoolgirl in Jo Maynard despite her family and all her other responsibilities. Steve gave her a slightly quizzical glance – but Jo merely grinned at her.

With the twins justly rebuked but graciously accepted back in to the fold, Steve and Joey made their way to Hilda’s study with the intention of filling them both in on the story and – more importantly – phoning Paul and Sir Graham to let them know of the existence – and whereabouts - of the Chart.

“Paul! We’ve got it!” Steve exclaimed when she was finally through to her husband.

“By Timothy – that’s good work girls! Hold on to it for the time being – Sir Graham and I will be with you as soon as possible. We can motor down – the Government can jolly well spare us the petrol for this little excursion! We’ll be with you late tomorrow – or early next darling!”

“Drive carefully Paul!” exclaimed Steve her voice a combination of worry and a fierce pleasure at the thought of seeing him again. He just laughed “Now darling, when have you ever known me take any risks!” and he hung up
Author:  abbeybufo [ Fri May 02, 2008 7:53 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Fi - this is great :D
Author:  MaryR [ Fri May 02, 2008 8:21 pm ]
Post subject: 
Just caught up on two posts. Thanks, Fiona - lovely meshing of the two differing universes. :D
Author:  PaulineS [ Fri May 02, 2008 8:26 pm ]
Post subject: 
Good to know that Steve and Paul are working together so well.
Author:  Elbee [ Fri May 02, 2008 8:28 pm ]
Post subject: 
This fits in so well with Highland Twins! I can now understand Rosalie's little adventure, it never really made sense before!

Thanks Abbeygirl.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Fri May 02, 2008 8:50 pm ]
Post subject: 
That is lovely and continuing to mesh with the 'real' Highland Twins so seamlessly - thanks Abbeygirl.
Author:  Rosalin [ Fri May 02, 2008 10:00 pm ]
Post subject: 
Will the map have any more adventures before Paul arrives?

Thanks Fiona.
Author:  Tara [ Fri May 02, 2008 10:42 pm ]
Post subject: 
Quote:
With the twins justly rebuked but graciously accepted back in to the fold
Lovely sentence :D .

As everyone else has said, this is an excellent fusion of the two universes, and Highland Twins was made for it!
Author:  di [ Sat May 03, 2008 5:46 am ]
Post subject: 
Thanks again, Fiona. this gets better by the post :)
Author:  Kathy_S [ Sun May 04, 2008 3:01 am ]
Post subject: 
What else could happen before tomorrow?

Hmmmmmm............

Thank you, Fiona.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sun May 04, 2008 12:28 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks, am really enjoying the way all this fits together
Author:  abbeygirl [ Sun May 04, 2008 3:52 pm ]
Post subject: 
Kathy S said
Quote:
What else could happen before tomorrow?
- let me show you.....

Thanks every one for all your kind comments - they are much appreciated. Incidentally this is the first half of a post I had written which disappeared into the great computer in the sky. I was not happy....

It was agreed that Joey should take the document back to her house for safekeeping until Sir Graham and Paul Temple arrived to take care of it officially. Although Hilda had offered to keep it in their safe, it was felt that any further attacks on the school premises would not be good for the pupils - or indeed the school’s reputation! - and Joey had an old fashioned safe of her own – and Rufus to stand guard. “Not that he’ll be much use as a guard dog!” sighed Joey “Poor darling is getting on in years now, but he’ll be able to bark at any intruder, and that will give me time to summon help.”

That night Steve had woken in time for her usual midnight patrol. Expecting to find nothing untoward – as had been the case for the past few weeks- she was taken aback to hear a faint rustling sound outside her door. Very cautiously – but as quickly as possible – she threw on the bare minimum of clothes, and armed with her flashlight, she made to follow the direction of the sound.

Steve did not kid herself that it would be easy. The blackout ensured it was pitch dark throughout and despite her many illicit excursions since her arrival, she was by no means confident of the layout of the building – and it appeared that her quarry was.. Nonetheless this was the best chance she had had since arriving at the school, and Steve was determined to make the most of it.

She set out in the direction she had first heard the footsteps take but although she strained every nerve, it was not until she heard a creaking sound that she realised they were at the stairs – indeed her quarry was already most of the way down them. Steve was careful as she too descended – she didn’t want to make the same mistake, and alert whoever it was to the fact they were being followed. Steve heard a door go and realised quickly that her quarry had entered a small cloakroom, just off the hall. She had a sudden moment of doubt at that point. Could she have been mistaken? Was it in fact just someone after a glass of water in the middle of the night? But the she remembered that they had walked past several bathrooms and realised that there was - in all probability – some more sinister cause for the choice of this particular bathroom. Whatever it was though evidently did not take long and Steve – who had only slowly ventured down the stairs had to take cover quickly as the bathroom door opened once more. She caught a glimpse of a pale dressing gown as she dived into the cover provided by the staircase but that was it and by the time she had followed her quarry up the stairs, got no further glimpse of her and the sound of a quietly closing door in the distance made her give a sigh of exasperation. Still there was no point in going any further now she decided. It would be impossible to establish the individual door in question and it would seem unlikely that she – whoever it was – would stir out again tonight. But tomorrow she promised herself she would have a good look round that cloakroom.

********

A motorbike cut its engine some little distance from its eventual destination and, the rider, taking off his helmet to reveal a balaclava covered face, cautiously slid the motorbike behind a conveniently located copse of trees. He extracted something from the small pack on his back and made his way as silent as a shadow. He was well trained and although there looked to be no one around, took no chances, so it was some time before he found himself at the bottom of a drive. He was careful to keep the object close by him as he scouted round the house and eventually found a small window that seemed to suit his purpose. It was locked of course but for a man of his skill, it took only a few seconds to force it open. Once it was open, he made no attempt to go through it, however, but was content to throw the object through the window onto the hall floor and wait.

It took longer than he had anticipated to take effect, but eventually he decided it was safe enough to move and cautiously he climbed through the open window. It was a tight squeeze, but he had been in those before, and passed through, landing almostly silently on the floor.

It was dark but he had been well briefed and knew exactly where he was going. He slid open the study door and made his way to the safe. It took him longer than he had anticipated to open it – but it came away eventually. The door swung open and the man gave a grunt of satisfaction. It didn’t last long. As the door opened it revealed nothing more than a pile of typed sheets, an old rosary and a few pound notes. He cursed. Fluently but still quietly – his training held good even in the most trying circumstances, and these were proving very trying indeed. He began to search the rest of the room, thoroughly and with no care for disguising his actions. He found nothing and with the dawn rapidly approaching, knew he could spare no more time on the search. He left as silently as he had arrived but as he revved his motorbike, the first sign of frustration he had allowed himself - Joey Maynard half stirred in her bed, but decided it must have been a dream and quickly slipped back into a deep sleep.
Author:  Liz K [ Sun May 04, 2008 5:36 pm ]
Post subject: 
:shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock:

I don't think I'd be able to move for fright!
Author:  abbeybufo [ Sun May 04, 2008 5:42 pm ]
Post subject: 
Ooooh! :shock: :shock:

creepy Fi - thanks :lol:
Author:  PaulineS [ Sun May 04, 2008 7:47 pm ]
Post subject: 
Was Con sleep walking?
This is frightening for Joey though, where has she hid the map?
I suspect it is under her pillow and it was a school story in the safe.

:? :? :? :? :? :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :? :? :? :?
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Sun May 04, 2008 8:07 pm ]
Post subject: 
Ouch - definitely scary stuff here - thanks Abbeygirl - I think!
:shock: : :shock: :mrgreen:
Author:  Miss Di [ Mon May 05, 2008 3:30 am ]
Post subject: 
Very scary stuff.

I'm wibbling under the desk until the next episode.
Author:  di [ Mon May 05, 2008 9:10 am ]
Post subject: 
Scary or what?! So, who's creeping about the house in the early hours and what did the mysterious man throw through the window before entering. I can't wait until the next post Fiona. Please don't leave us in suspense for too long. :poke:
Author:  abbeygirl [ Tue May 06, 2008 7:24 pm ]
Post subject: 
Not entirely sure that this is what you wanted......

Steve lost no time in apprising Hilda and Nell about the events of the previous night. The phone rang in the middle of her story and she answered it. “Joey!” She exclaimed “I was just telling Hilda” but she was cut off in mid flow.

“I’ve been burgled.” Joey interrupted baldly and Steve gave a gasp. “No don’t worry - they didn’t get away with the Chart – the safe was always the last place I intended to put it. Rufus was put out of action with some meat laced with some kind of drug. Whoever it was means business. I’m coming over now.” And before Steve could do more than agree, she was staring at an unresponsive receiver. She put it slowly back on the hook and turned to face the other two, who having caught only Steve’s end of the conversation, were naturally quietly dying of curiosity.

Joey arrived soon after and she was evidently furious. Usually on the odd occasion Joey lost her temper, she was extremely voluble, but today she was coldly furious. “The burglar must have put the meat down for Rufus first – he never made a sound. I can’t blame the poor chap – after all a steak is an unheard of treat for us – let alone a dog. But thank God, he didn’t eat all of it. He’s been very sick obviously but we think he’ll pull through. And he’s been very thorough – turned the study upside down. Luckily there were only the latest chapters of the book in there – I have to lock them, away from the Triplets! And Jack’s old rosary – you remember I gave him a new one to take with him? – but he’s torn the rest of the place apart. I’ve left Anna tidying up – luckily neither Rob or Daisy was at home.” And Joey stopped abruptly her heart in her mouth as she considered what might have been. If Rob or Daisy had heard an intruder they wouldn’t have thought twice about challenging him – and this man was evidently not too concerned about swatting aside obstacles. Joey doubted that even the fact that they were two girls would not have weighed with him.

“It must have been him” Joey said suddenly, with alike a fine disregard for grammar and the need to actually convey meaning through the medium of words.

“Who!” said Nell in understandable exasperation, and Joey had the grace to blush.

“The one who broke into the school. The one who terrified Rosalie. The one after the Chart!” elucidated Joey. “It must be. There were quite a few bits of silver lying around, including that set from the Stuffer and Marie which although hideous is nonetheless solid silver. Any real burglar would never have passed that by.”

“But how.” Began Steve before she was interrupted by the phone again. Hilda picked it up and then handed it to Steve – “Rosalie has a call – she says she thinks it is for you.”

Puzzled Steve took the receiver. “Hello?”

In a hesitant tone Rosalie began to explain “Miss Trent – I’m sorry to disturb you but Mrs Evans from the Post Office is on the other line. She wanted to speak to a Mrs Temple and when I said there was no-one here of that name, insisted that there was – a Mrs Steve Temple. She had to talk to her immediately and said .. and said … it was a matter of life and death….”
Author:  roversgirl [ Tue May 06, 2008 7:30 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks for the updates! More please :P
Author:  MaryR [ Tue May 06, 2008 8:30 pm ]
Post subject: 
Wow, Pauline, how did you know it was going to be the story in the safe? Psychic! :lol:

Getting even more mysterious now, Fiona, what with sleepwalkers and phone calls from post mistresses who appear to know who Steve is. Has Mrs Evans been listening in on Steve's phone calls to Paul? Is that even possible? :shock:

Thank you.
Author:  abbeybufo [ Tue May 06, 2008 8:38 pm ]
Post subject: 
"Matter of life and death" indeed :shock: - what has Paul been up to?

Thanks Fi
Author:  Rosalin [ Tue May 06, 2008 8:46 pm ]
Post subject: 
Mysteries a-plenty! The night time scenes in the previous post were very atmospheric and I'm intrigued as to where the cloakroom comes into matters.

Looking forward to finding out more (hint, hint :lol: )

Thanks Fiona.
Author:  Miss Di [ Wed May 07, 2008 3:25 am ]
Post subject: 
What is it with drabblers and cliffs? Pleeeeeeease let us know more soon abbeygirl.
Author:  Kathy_S [ Wed May 07, 2008 4:36 am ]
Post subject: 
Very exciting!

Thank you, Fiona.
Author:  di [ Wed May 07, 2008 6:02 am ]
Post subject: 
Right, now I understand; it was the poisened meat the intruder threw through the window. How silly of me; I thought he was breaking in to school, not Joey's. I must go back to the book when I get confused.
Many thanks, this is really good.
Author:  abbeygirl [ Wed May 07, 2008 7:18 am ]
Post subject: 
since you all asked so nicely.......

“Don’t worry Miss Dene” replied Steve crisply “You did the right thing. I am Mrs Temple. Can you put her through please?”

There was a click and a hesitant elderly Welsh voice came through. “Hello? Is that Mrs Temple? Mrs Paul Temple?”

“Yes it is but how…..?”

“Never mind that now Mrs Temple. I must speak to you. Someone put a call through from the school last night. I didn’t think anything of it then, but the more I think about it – well it doesn’t seem quite right.”

“But Mrs Evans – who was it?” pressed Steve anxious for her informant to get to the point.

“Well that’s just it Miss. Oh hold on – there’s someone at the door. Will you come down to the Village – I can’t leave it unattended unless a telegram comes in you see. I must go now but please come. It really is important that I talk to you” and then the phone went dead.

“Mrs Evans! Mrs Evans!” exclaimed Steve but there was no answer from the unresponsive receiver in her hand. Slowly she placed the phone back on the hook and turned to face three women, all featuring identical expressions of desperate curiosity.

********

“It’s a trap!” exclaimed Joey when Steve had explained the content of the phone call and had expressed her immediate intention of going to the village to find out just what it was that Mrs Evans thought she knew.

“I’ll have to take that risk” declared Steve. “If she has any sort of information that could identify the spy or the mole at the school, then we simply can’t afford to pass up the opportunity. At least if I know it might be a trap I’ll go prepared.”

“And you’ll go with me.” came Joey’s voice steady and coldly determined. “This has to stop, otherwise none of us will be able to sleep soundly at night, and if we don’t step forward, who will?”

“Joey!” exclaimed Steve “Are you sure about this”

“Yes. Very. They’ve broken into my home and tried to kill my dog. What will they try next? There are the children to think of…”

Although it was clear that both Nell and Hilda would have dearly loved to go along as well, they both had teaching duties that day, and reluctantly – primarily because it was very clear that neither Jo or Steve was going to pay a blind bit of attention to anything they might say – they agreed that the two should go. Hilda, however, made it very clear that if they had not returned to the school within the space of two hours – she would be calling the police - was that understood?” As this statement was accompanied by one of Hilda’s gimlet glares from a very fine pair of steel blue eyes, both quickly agreed to her conditions.

Taking the car into the village was out of the question – there just was not the petrol to spare for what, after all, might simply be a wild goose chase. So with Hilda’s blessing – they “borrowed” a couple of bicycles belonging to the staff – and quickly set off. They were both relatively fit and the trip was made quickly. They dismounted close to – but not directly outside – the Post Office and carefully walked up to the door.

Steve’s hackles rose as she saw the door – it was slightly ajar and it shouldn’t have been. She motioned to Joey and put her fingers to her lips, but continued to move forwards – she had no intention of letting Joey move ahead of her – if there was danger ahead, better she face it than Joey. After all – if the worst happened there was only Paul to mourn her – Joey had a long list of people depending on her.
Author:  JB [ Wed May 07, 2008 7:25 am ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Abbey Girl. What a lovely start to the day to catch up on two instalments. As for that cliff ......
Author:  Elbee [ Wed May 07, 2008 8:09 am ]
Post subject: 
oooh, I was holding my breath at the end there, this is so exciting!

Thanks Abbeygirl.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Wed May 07, 2008 12:16 pm ]
Post subject: 
Just caught up with these last two episodes together - and will be waiting with bated breath to see what happens next! I'm glad Steve is there to prevent Joey 'rushing in where angels fear to tread', but I just hope they both stay safe.

Thanks, Abbeygirl.
Author:  PaulineS [ Wed May 07, 2008 2:48 pm ]
Post subject: 
Two posts to catch up on. I thought i had avoided a cliff, well i had but you had another any way.

As for the book in the safe where else would Joey keep in safe from fire, water and bombs, never mind the children! It was at a time in incendary devises after all.
Author:  abbeybufo [ Wed May 07, 2008 3:37 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Fi - another cliff!

*off to get all the necessary from JackieP <g>*
Author:  Miss Di [ Thu May 08, 2008 4:12 am ]
Post subject: 
another cliff and I'm not good with heights. Abbeygirl, you are cruel. Just back away from the edge slowly...
Author:  di [ Thu May 08, 2008 6:10 am ]
Post subject: 
Oo-er, just peep round the door, Steve, I'm a little scared of what you might find. I've been known to skip scary pages in books and go out of the room when the same appears on the T.V. so take care, Steve and don't let Joey go storming ahead.
Lovely update, Fiona.
Author:  Rosalin [ Thu May 08, 2008 1:30 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thoughtful of Steve to go first. I hope she doesn't find anything too bad.

*looks around carefully before walking off in case another cliff has appeared out of thin air*

Thanks Fiona.
Author:  abbeygirl [ Thu May 08, 2008 9:41 pm ]
Post subject: 
There are no such things as cliffs... As Lesley has said before there are only natural places where the story falls into episodes. So um here is the next update... but I'm not positive that you will be very pleased with me....

Steve pushed open the door to find it apparently deserted. Cautiously she opened it to its full extent and looked all round the room. She could neither see nor hear anything untoward, and so stepped further in, Joey close on her heels. The silence in the dusky room was absolute – the lights were not on and the mist that had descended during their short journey to the Post Office did not give much in the way of illumination, but it was enough – barely - to dimly light their path. Cautiously they moved closer to the Post Office counter at the other end of the long room, keeping their backs firmly against the wall as they did so. As they got closer they could dimly see the door leading up to the living quarters was slightly ajar and communicating now solely in gestures, they signalled their intention of going through the door.

A thud that echoed dully, made them both instinctively crouch down. It came from behind the counter and inch by inch they crawled in that direction. As they came nearer, Steve was suddenly conscious of a wetness on her hands, and impelled by a sudden urgency she only half understood she got up and dashed impetuously across the final bit of ground. She wrenched at the Counter top but the door giving access would not budge. Sudden understanding came to Steve then. She took of her shoes and with a face drained of all colour she whispered urgently to Joey “Quickly – help me over the counter”. Joey, puzzled by the expression on Steve’s face, but obedient nonetheless, gave her the necessary push and silently Steve landed the other side. As she had feared the obstacle preventing the door from opening was a body. Blood was still oozing from a small hole in the head and Steve already knew that this meant the death was a recent one. She checked the body for any sign of life, but was not surprised to find none. This was not the work of an amateur.

She had moved the body slightly in her examination – enough for Joey to squeeze through the door and that lady stopped dead as she saw the body in front of her.

“But its Mrs Evans the Post!” she exclaimed – “What on earth!”

Steve never knew just what made her look round at that point, but as she did so, she gave a fervent thanks to whatever deity was looking out for them. From the corner of her eye she saw a glint as the sun briefly came out before disappearing once more. It was warning enough for Paul Temple’s wife and she acted instantly – shoving Joey to one side as she leapt for the half open door. There was a muffled yelp from the other side as the door closed heavily on something behind, but not before a shot was fired. The sound of it echoed round the room and as Steve crumpled to the floor Joey cried out “Steve! No!”
Author:  MHE [ Thu May 08, 2008 9:44 pm ]
Post subject: 
Out of the frying pan into the fire !!!! - such a typical reaction from Steve.
Author:  abbeybufo [ Thu May 08, 2008 9:52 pm ]
Post subject: 
Glad I got all the harnesses etc from JackieP :lol:

Thanks Fi - this continues to be superb :D
Author:  Tara [ Thu May 08, 2008 10:32 pm ]
Post subject: 
Oh my goodness! And there was I, thinking I'd missed the cliffs! I hate this man, poisoning poor Rufus and bumping off harmless Mrs Evans. This is certainly much more ruthless than the original. Hope Steve isn't badly hurt, and that the man (presumably?) behind the door is.

Thanks, abbeygirl, nailbiting stuff.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Thu May 08, 2008 11:10 pm ]
Post subject: 
Who said you don't do cliffs, Abbeygirl? Hope that Steve isn't badly hurt - and that you won't keep us waiting too long to discover that fact!! But this really is very well worked out.

Thank you.
Author:  Miss Di [ Fri May 09, 2008 2:19 am ]
Post subject: 
Gah, if that ain't a cliff what is? Will have to turn PC on at home at regular intervals over the weekend to check up on Steve.
Author:  roversgirl [ Fri May 09, 2008 5:02 am ]
Post subject: 
Thanks for the update! :)
Author:  di [ Fri May 09, 2008 5:41 am ]
Post subject: 
Look, I told Steve to be careful, now what's she gone and done? Hope Joey remembers her first aid, learnt as a Guide, although I don't suppose for a minute that Bill included treatment for bullets! Also hope that the wires to the 'phone haven't been cut.
Thanks Fiona.
Author:  JB [ Fri May 09, 2008 7:25 am ]
Post subject: 
Cliffs for breakfast again!!
Author:  MaryR [ Fri May 09, 2008 3:57 pm ]
Post subject: 
Oh, dear! She just wasn't quick enough. :cry: Am hoping one death is enough for you here, Fiona! Unless Steve is wearing a bullet-proof vest!

Thank you,
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Fri May 09, 2008 8:28 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks for the updates, methinks you've been hanging out with Lesley too long with all the cliffs! :wink:

Hope Stevie is okay
Author:  PaulineS [ Fri May 09, 2008 9:22 pm ]
Post subject: 
Hope Joey was given advanced first aid training when she was given her security clearance!!
Hope Steve is not serious hurt however and either she or Joey can disarm the person behind the door.
Author:  Kathy_S [ Fri May 09, 2008 11:11 pm ]
Post subject: 
Yikes! :shock:
Author:  abbeygirl [ Mon May 12, 2008 9:13 pm ]
Post subject: 
“Steve, No!”

Steve shook her head in an attempt to clear it. She had received a sharp blow as a result of her wholesale assault on the door and she could not afford to be only half awake. They were not out of danger yet. The killer was still near by and they were the only thing between him and freedom. He could not take the risk of letting them escape. The blow from the door had obviously hurt their would-be assailant, but this was surely only a temporary respite. They must find a way of defending themselves – and quickly.

“Steve – are you all right?” asked Joey, white faced and shaken, both from the knowledge of how close she had come to death and from the winding she had received when Steve pushed her out of harm’s way. As Steve had done before her Joey sent up a little prayer of thanks for help received and added a plea that the divine assistance should continue for just a little while longer.

“I’m ok.” Steve reassured her, looking round at the same time for something, anything at all that would be useful. Her eyes lit up as she caught sight of the large old-fashioned brass stapler that Mrs Evans had evidently preferred to the more modern design. But its weight and shape would be ideal.

“What!?” and then Joey stopped – her question unasked. She didn’t need Steve to reply – the sudden realisation that there was still great danger to be faced, gradually dawning on her, as it had Steve just a few moments earlier. Her face grew set and determined, and she too began to search for a suitable weapon.

The thought of making a run for safety was not one which had crossed their minds, or if it had, it had been swiftly dismissed. This man was an enemy of their country – he had evidently suborned someone at the school and they needed to find out exactly who that was so they could put a stop to it. But more than that, the idea of letting a spy loose to wreak further damage to their country was not to be borne for a moment. Although in this war most of the fighting was neccesarily done by men, both Steve and Joey were happy to prove that when the need arose, England could be just as proud of her women.

There was no plan, but the two women worked instinctively well together. Joey made the counter door creak and that caused the man behind the door to act. They were escaping! This could not be allowed. He thought of nothing more than the chance of stopping them and burst through the door. Steve had the heavy brass stapler in her hand and brought it down heavily on the arm she thought was holding the gun. She was right. It skittered to the floor to be grabbed by Joey, who lost no time in turning it on the man. Her caution was unnecessary though, as he dropped to the ground, shrieking curses and clutching at the arm that now hung at a very peculiar angle.

The door to the post office burst open – two men at the fore – one tall, handsome with dark, close cropped hair, the other an older, very distinguished looking man. At the sight of them, Steve gave a glad cry and positively hurtled towards the younger. “Oh Paul! Darling!” she choked. “Steve!” he echoed as his eyes gradually took in the scene before him and his mind gradually took in the extent of the danger his wife had faced.

Sir Graham Forbes – for the distinguished middle aged man who had followed Paul Temple into the room was indeed the Commissioner of Scotland Yard – motioned to the uniformed men behind him. Joey gladly relinquished her place to them and surveyed the pair in front of her. She was glad for Steve, but the love that the two of them shared was so apparent that she could not help thinking with a sharp pang of longing for Jack. It seemed to have been so long since she had seen him! But maybe it would not be long before they were reunited and she too could throw herself into the arms of the man she loved so very much.
Author:  MHE [ Mon May 12, 2008 9:18 pm ]
Post subject: 
Phew! Thank goodness Steve's alright and right on cue as usual Paul and Sir Graham turn up - the only thing missing is the theme tune :D
Author:  abbeybufo [ Mon May 12, 2008 9:20 pm ]
Post subject: 
More alarums and excursions!

Thanks Fi this is great :D
Author:  PaulineS [ Mon May 12, 2008 9:23 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thank goodness Paul and Sir Graham apeared so soon, and that Joey and Steve had acted with speed and effectiveness.

Thanks for the update.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Mon May 12, 2008 11:36 pm ]
Post subject: 
THank heaven both Steve and Joey reacted quickly and that Paul and Sir Graham arrived when they did. That very last line was so poignant, too.

As for the theme tune - Coronation Scot is now going firmly round in my head anyway!!

Thanks, Fi.
Author:  Miss Di [ Tue May 13, 2008 3:40 am ]
Post subject: 
At last, a natural break in the story that doesn't leave me hanging on the edge of a precipice!


But...who is the insider? How did Paul & Sir Graham get there so quickly? How...

Thid is great abbeygirl
Author:  roversgirl [ Tue May 13, 2008 4:24 am ]
Post subject: 
Glad that turned out well. Thanks :)
Author:  di [ Tue May 13, 2008 5:40 am ]
Post subject: 
Well done, Joey and Steve. Glad to find out that Steve is not badly hurt and that Paul and Sir Graham are at hand to 'mop up'
Thanks, Fiona.
Author:  Jennie [ Tue May 13, 2008 11:33 am ]
Post subject: 
Thanks, thiswas great. But whodunnit?
Author:  abbeygirl [ Tue May 13, 2008 9:04 pm ]
Post subject: 
Again - I needed to weave some bits of Highland Twins in at this point - but I've rewritten, cut, pasted and edited so much that it would take all night to itaclic them. Its getting nearer to the end and the final real live explanation -- but not just yet.....!

Once his arm had been attended to, Eric Wolfe was given a straight choice between being returned forthwith to Germany – therefore to be dealt with by the Gestapo – or spending the remainder of the war in a nice comfortable Prisoner of War camp in England. Herr Wolfe was in no doubt as to his reception if he returned to Germany a failure and he preferred to put off the evil hour as long as possible. No doubt he would have to face his superior officers once – as was inevitable – Germany won the war, but that may be some months ahead, and there was always the chance that they might have forgotten one little failed spy by then. He agreed to hand over the name of his English accomplice, but argued that he did not know her name – if they wished him to identify her then they would have to let him pick her out from the rest of her schoolgirl comrades.

When she heard this suggestion Hilda Annersley came perilously close to losing the icy calm for which she was famed for the first time in living memory. To subject her pupils to being looked over by a German agent ranked very low indeed on her list of desirable interruptions to the curriculum and she let her feelings be known to Mr Paul Temple – the man who had been chosen to break the glad tidings to her.

He smiled disarmingly at her. “Believe me Miss Annersley I know exactly how you feel – my wife has made a point of letting me know -quite forcefully- just what an outrageous suggestion I am making.” Then his voice changed, and became more serious. “But we have no choice. We have to find this accomplice of his and this is the only way he is prepared to positively identify her. I’m sure if your pupils were given these facts, they would understand the necessity. I am just hopeful that you will too.”

“Oh I realise that!” Hilda exclaimed “I know there is no choice, but I am not happy – not happy at all!”

“I do believe you have managed to convey that message” replied Paul Temple a trifle drily.

“Good!” said Hilda briskly “Because if I could not communicate my feelings successfully I would not be much use as a teacher of English would I”.

The last word – as was often the case – belonging to Hilda, the small group who had accompanied Paul but kept thankfully silent as he dealt with the full force of Hilda’s personality, filed out after her. Steve, Joey, Nell Wilson and Colonel Black – the local police representative had taken over for Sir Graham at his behest today – and closely accompanied by two of his men – the prisoner, Herr Eric Wolfe.

The fiat had gone forth – the whole school was to assemble in the Hall at once, and quickly – and mostly quietly they did so. The Upper Fourth were last. They had been over in the big garage which had been turned into a chemistry laboratory, and had had to get out of overalls and wash their hands before they came, as they had been busy with an experiment. Then the Staff filed in, and took up their places on the far side of the dais. Lastly, the door at the top of the room opened to admit a small group of people including Joey Maynard, Steve, Paul Temple – who was recognisable from the pictures in the newspapers that they were occasionally allowed to read when they were considered responsible enough to do so - Miss Wilson, the Head, Colonel Black, two policemen, and a tall, thin man who walked between them, and, to the intense excitement of the School, was hand-cuffed to one of them. A heavy scowl darkened his face, as he glanced down the noble room and saw the rows of bright young faces before him.

Only one girl showed any signs of anything but interest. This was Betty Wynne-Davies. She went deathly white, and gave a tiny gasp. No one noticed it, for all were too much occupied in staring at the group on the dais and wondering what on earth it all meant.. Then the Head gave the order to sit down, and they sat down on the plain prie-dieu chairs that filled two-thirds of Hall, and there was silence.

The Head came forward, and looked at them all with deep gravity. ‘I am sorry to have to tell you,’ she began, ‘that there is a traitor among us. I use the word because I am afraid the girl, whoever she is, has been both treacherous and deceitful. Another girl—two or three, in fact—has forgotten that it is well not to chatter in war-time. As a result of this, a most important document might have got into enemy hands, and if it had done, it might have been a very grave thing for our country.’ She paused. Then she spoke again, this time in a different key ‘But that is the least of the trouble. One expects small girls to make silly mistakes sometimes. They are still too much of babies, perhaps, to understand the seriousness of what they have done. But I have something much worse to tell you now. One of the elder girls is also more closely involved, for what reason I cannot even begin to comprehend. However, it is terrible thing, and I can only mark my feeling about it by pronouncing the heaviest punishment I can upon this girl. I am now going to ask Colonel Black and Mr Dunnett to permit their prisoner to look at you all, and point out the girl.

The two policemen rose, their prisoner with them, and the Chief Constable and Colonel Black followed suit. The thin man stared slowly at the first few rows, but all were tinies who sat staring solemnly at him. He shook his head and then turned and spoke to the Head, a certain insolence in his hard, clear voice.

‘I regret that I am unable to see the bigger young ladies at the back of the room. Perhaps I might go down and look at them?’

The Head glanced at Paul Temple, who nodded, so she said, ‘Very well. Or, better still, as it was none of the younger children, I will send them back to their work, and the older ones can march, form by form, past you. Will not that be better, Colonel?’

‘A lot better,’ replied the Colonel grumpily. He hated this business of letting this man stare at these bonny, decent girls in his insolent way. But it had to be done.

Miss Wilson jumped up here, however, and interfered. ‘One moment! May I make a suggestion. Perhaps if the girls were asked, the guilty one would own up and then we need not go to this extra trouble.’

The Head welcomed the suggestion with relief and turning to face her pupils appealed to the girl who had been the cause of all the trouble. ‘Will the girl who has done this thing please stand?’

There was no response. Betty was usually plucky enough, but she literally dared not give herself up now. Expulsion was all she could expect if her part in the affair came out, and she simply could not face it. So she slumped down in her chair, and hoped against hope that it would be all right. It was a vain hope. Form by form the girls were marched in front of the dais, and the prisoner’s cold blue eyes wandered over their faces. He recognised none of them. Finally on the Sixth form were left – and surely thought Miss Annersley wearily, It could not be one of them. Nonetheless she gave the order and one by one they filed past.

The man stared at them. His eyes widened in recognition as they fell on Robin’s lovely face, but he made no comment. He passed from her to brown-haired Lorenz, and then to Cornish Enid, whose blue eyes were bright with anger. Monica Marilliar came next, but he wasted no time on her. Monica was much bigger than the girl he had seen. Jocelyn Redford—Biddy O’Hara—Nicole de Saumarez—they were all too big, though Biddy and Nicole looked small beside Monica and red-haired Elizabeth Arnett. Floppy Williams came next, but she, too, could not be the girl. Then came Betty, and he looked at her, an unpleasant smile on his lips, and she stared back at him like a rabbit staring at a snake. He bowed to her. ‘Fräulein,’ he emphasised the title, I make you my apologies. Both of us are in hands too powerful for us. Believe me, I would not have told of you if I could have helped it.’ He turned his head towards the Head. ‘Gracious lady, this is the gnädiges Fräulein who gave me my information. I deeply regret that I must acknowledge it, but so it is.’ He stepped back as he ended, with another low bow; but Betty was too far gone to see it or to heed its mockery. With a bitter little cry, she threw up her hands, and swayed forwards. The next moment Elizabeth Arnett had sprung forward and caught her. She could not have supported the dead weight, but she lowered the fainting girl to the floor, while the Colonel, thankful to get away, gave a signal, and the prisoner was marched out at once, leaving the horrified Sixth alone with Miss Wilson, Matron and Miss Annersley.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Tue May 13, 2008 9:18 pm ]
Post subject: 
I remember that scene from Highland Twins quite well, and you have interwoven your own words very effectively.

I will be eagerly awaiting the remaining episodes and the denouement when it comes.

Thanks, Abbeygirl.
Author:  MHE [ Tue May 13, 2008 9:21 pm ]
Post subject: 
Oh lovely interweaving of both stories, had to laugh that PT was the one who had to tell Hilda of the plan to identify the school contact.

I have spent the last few weeks listening again to my collection of PT audio cd's - looking forward to hearing this on the radio :lol:

Thanks
Author:  abbeybufo [ Tue May 13, 2008 9:48 pm ]
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Oh excellent, most excellent! :D

Thanks Fi
Author:  PaulineS [ Tue May 13, 2008 10:10 pm ]
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thank you for the updates
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Wed May 14, 2008 12:40 am ]
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Thanks for all the updates
Author:  roversgirl [ Wed May 14, 2008 4:29 am ]
Post subject: 
thanks for the update. :)
Author:  di [ Wed May 14, 2008 4:53 am ]
Post subject: 
This was just what I needed after being awoken early this morning to rescue a bird my darling cat has brought me to play with!! Bird and cat both okay; the cat nearly didn't make it :x
I can't help but to feel sorry for Betty; she didn't have the best start in her CS career, being left there by uncaring guardians and I never had her down as a traitor. Her actions more fitted the little schoolgirl mentality spoken about by Hilda- however we all know her punishment!
Thanks for the update, Fiona.
Author:  Miss Di [ Wed May 14, 2008 6:16 am ]
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Just awesome, you've interwoven the Highland Twins stuff so well. Thanks for the updates!
Author:  MaryR [ Wed May 14, 2008 1:13 pm ]
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Just had a big catch-up, and by-passed some of the cliffs, at least! :lol:

Thanks, Fiona.
Author:  abbeygirl [ Wed May 14, 2008 4:12 pm ]
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When Betty came round from her fainting fit, she found herself in Miss Annersley’s study, lying on a sofa. The Head was bending over her, a glass in her hand.

‘Don’t talk, Betty,’ said the Head quickly. ‘Drink this, and then go to sleep. I will see you later.’

But Betty rebelled. ‘I must talk! Oh, Miss Annersley! What have I done? What have I done? I never meant it to come to this.’

Miss Annersley saw that it was no use – the girl had to speak for her own peace of mind, and if truth be told, the information was needed by the authorities. She sat back and listened as Betty recalled the whole sorry tale of her involvement with the German spy.

“I first saw him late one October day. It had been gardening day for the Sixth. I had been sent back to collect a trowel and fork I had left out. I saw him coming towards me and thought he was a trespasser at first and told him straight out he had no business being here. But somehow he had managed to persuade me that he meant no harm. He was very charming. He asked a lot of questions that seemed harmless enough - he was so sympathetic about the twins that I just let myself go and I’m afraid I told him more about them and their business than I knew. When I realised I had said too much I tried to go away but then he caught hold of my arm and told me that I had already given away enough to be of great help to him, and if I didn’t tell him what he wanted to know, he would find ways and means of letting my head mistress know how much I had already told. I couldn’t let him do that!” Betty cried. “If you remember Miss Annersley, it was not long after that last interview in your study where you said – you said…” and Miss Annersely recalled the interview vividly - she had finished by saying gravely ‘This sort of thing must end, Betty. I cannot let it go on. If I have any more complaints of you, you must go. You are having a bad infuence in the School, and I cannot sacrifce the School for one girl.’

“I just couldn’t face the thought!” Betty explained. “I was terrified. If I was expelled – well you know what my guardian is like.” And she shivered at the thought. “Anyway I told him that the twins had it. I told him where the Junior lockers were, and I even agreed to contrive to leave a window of the room unlatched if I could, so that he might get in quietly. It was an easy matter for her to slip in after the prefects had locked up and fasten back the latch of the french window. I knew that it couldn’t do that much harm – the twins would never leave such a thing in a locker. And I was right! And that is all Miss Annersley! I swear to you I never meant any harm!” and fearful of the future and by now bitterly ashamed of what she had done, Betty broke down, her sobs so violent they shook her whole body. The Head let them go unchecked for a moment, until it became clear that they were not the tears of healing, but were bordering on hysteria.

“Come now Betty. Drink this” she said firmly, and accustomed to obeying her headmistress in the grave confines of the study, Betty managed to drink the contents of the glass held to her lips, although her teeth did chatter on the rim. Before long she had fallen asleep and the lines of strain were slowly fading from her face. Let her sleep. Time enough tomorrow to face the future.
Author:  PaulineS [ Wed May 14, 2008 4:23 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thank you for the update which links Highland Twins and the extras veyy well.
Author:  abbeygirl [ Wed May 14, 2008 6:05 pm ]
Post subject: 
And just in case you thought it was safe to go back in the water .....

Hilda looked down at the girl she was going to have to expel in the morning and consign to a miserable life with an unsympathetic and horrified guardian and sighed. She knew she had no choice, once Betty’s actions became known throughout the school, her life would have been unbearable, but still. Hilda hated to lose even one of her ewe lambs, and this would be her first failure, something she found hard to admit. Maybe this would be the making of the child, she tried to comfort herself, but remembering her last interview with that worthy man, she somehow doubted it.

Although it already felt as if she had lived through more than a day, Hilda knew there was still work to be done. The authorities – in the shape of Paul Temple and Sir Graham had to be updated with the whole sorry story of Betty Wynne Davies and her involvement with the spy, and that young lady would indubitably need to go through it again with them in the morning. Wearily she dragged herself from the sofa and leaving Betty to find a temporary escape from her troubles in her dreams, she went in search of Paul Temple.

Miss Annersley related Betty’s sad tale to a select but extremely attentive audience comprising of what was rapidly becoming known as the usual suspects. Paul, Steve, Nell Wilson, and Joey Maynard. Madge would have come across, but had had futher bilious attacks over the past few days and had been forced to content herself with a solemn promise from Steve to come over to the Round House tomorrow to tell her the whole story. It was dark by now, but there was a comforting glow from the well tended log fire. The blackout curtains were in place, allowing the use of the electric lights, but tonight Hilda did not want too bright a light, and contented herself with the wall lights which gave a much more subdued illumination. “At least it was not intentional treachery – that I would have found impossible to believe and difficult to forgive.” And she concluded with a sigh of regret for a life which was almost certainly blighted – if not ruined.

Whilst there were nods from Nell and Joey it was notable that Paul and Steve both looked far from happy. A wordless communication appeared to pass between Paul and Steve and then Paul began to speak.

“But if what you – or rather Betty says is true?” the question hung in the air for a moment and Hilda pondered thoughtfully before nodding a decided “Yes. I would say almost certainly so. There is no reason for the child to lie to us. She has been found out – the worst has happened as far as she is concerned and she is to be expelled. She is also extremely upset and I am confident that she is experiencing true regret for her actions. So yes – in my personal and professional opinion, she is telling the truth.”

“Then I’m afraid there must be another traitor at large in the school” Paul responded, quietly but with a total conviction which carried weight.
Author:  roversgirl [ Wed May 14, 2008 6:40 pm ]
Post subject: 
:shock: what's this ?!
Author:  di [ Wed May 14, 2008 6:43 pm ]
Post subject: 
2 updates to catch up on and wow, what a cliff. Please do not keep us in suspense for long :)
Thanks, Fiona
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Wed May 14, 2008 7:33 pm ]
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Oops!!!! Please don't keep us hanging *there* for too long, Abbeygirl.
Author:  abbeybufo [ Wed May 14, 2008 7:43 pm ]
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Cor!

[BTW hadn't read these when I emailed you an hour ago, so I'm probably safest to go with my second thoughts :lol: ]

Thanks Fi
Author:  PaulineS [ Wed May 14, 2008 8:03 pm ]
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Abbeygirl, what a cliff!!! What has Paul and Sir Graham discovered which means there is a second spy?
Author:  andi [ Wed May 14, 2008 9:50 pm ]
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Wot?!!? :shock: More pleeeeeze!
Author:  MHE [ Wed May 14, 2008 9:52 pm ]
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O no what's going on now!!! :shock:
Author:  Kathy_S [ Wed May 14, 2008 11:55 pm ]
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Good for Steve & Joey! But, a nice prisoner of war camp after murdering Mrs. Evans the Post? I'd expect a longer sentence. :shock:

I'm feeling even more sorry for that idiot Betty than usual, though.

And -- What do you mean, a second traitor?! *waits impatiently*
Author:  Miss Di [ Thu May 15, 2008 3:23 am ]
Post subject: 
Well THAT was a shock!


...tapping fingers impatiently while waiting to be updated...
Author:  MaryR [ Fri May 16, 2008 7:12 pm ]
Post subject: 
Another traitor? :shock:

(Did you see that an adventure with Paul Temple and Steve was broadcast on Radio 4 today)

Thanks, Fiona.
Author:  Alex [ Wed May 21, 2008 12:28 pm ]
Post subject: 
I listened to the Madison Mystery on Listen Again while I had my lunch. So good, I really recommend everyone doing the same if you haven't heard it already.
Author:  abbeygirl [ Wed May 21, 2008 5:25 pm ]
Post subject: 
Sorry for the delay – its getting the Chronicle to the printer time – and my first jewellery stall at the weekend and Ben has just started football training and – oh yes work as well!! Thanks Alex for the tip about the Madison Mystery. It is the very latest Paul Temple - the second one which has been re recorded (the other being The Sullivan Mystery) and I have never "read" it, so once small son is in bed - guess where i'll be!


A stunned and disbelieving silence fell on the room as Paul made his announcement. He had the grace to look somewhat shamefaced at the bombshell he knew he had exploded in their midst. They had been convinced that it was all over. The traitor – not a serious traitor in the event – had been caught and, although it had all been very unpleasant, could begun to be put behind them. Now Paul had scuppered that happy belief and he mentally prepared himself for the onslaught he just knew was imminent.

A perfect babble of voices, all expostulating, exclaiming and questioning at once, filled the formerly silent room with an explosion of sound., letting him know he had been right on the button there. But above it all, one voice, demanding to know exactly what he meant by that statement, “immediately!” rose clearly above the others.

Paul held up a depreciating hand and gradually the noise faded away.

“Look. I know I’ve set the cat amongst the pigeons here, but if you stop and think about it for a moment, you’ll realise that there are a number of points that haven’t been cleared up yet. If you will bear with me for a while – I’ll get Steve to explain what they are whilst I make a few arrangements. All right darling?” And at her affirmative nod, without waiting for any further comment, he left the room. With one accord, all eyes swivelled expectantly to Steve.


*******

Steve was not used to holding the floor like this. Uusually it was Paul who gathered all the interested parties together at the end of a case to reveal the identity of the murderer – a denunciation that often led to violence as the guilty party tried to make good their escape. She hoped it would not be the case this time.


*******


She cleared her throat a bit nervously – Hilda did look very intimidating today and very impatient. “I know you must all have been very relieved to think that the mystery was solved, and we really are sorry to have to disabuse you, but if you stop and think about it logically – there must be someone else involved.” She paused and into the gap leapt Joey “But why? I can’t think of any good reason for you to suspect anyone apart from Betty!”

“Joey!” Steve exclaimed reproachfully “Who told Herr Wolfe that the chart had gone to your house? Who was he meeting the night that Rosalie was attacked – it wasn’t Betty if Hilda is correct to believe her. Who was in the bathroom that night? And ..” here her voice saddened “who told Herr Wolfe that Mrs Evans was about to talk to me? How did Mrs Evans know I was Mrs Temple? If it wasn’t Betty – then who was it?”

The silence that filled the room this time was slightly more contemplative as each woman in turn thought through what Steve had said.

“You’re right of course.” Hilda finally responded. “But who on earth could it be?”

“I’m hopeful that all this will be revealed shortly” said Steve “Paul has just gone to tie up a few loose ends and I promise, just as soon as we have the traitor under guard, you will know.” And more than that, despite blandishments and then threats, she refused to reveal.
Author:  roversgirl [ Wed May 21, 2008 6:49 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks for the update. Looking forward to knowing who it is :)
Author:  abbeybufo [ Wed May 21, 2008 7:35 pm ]
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Who indeed!?! :lol: :lol:

Thanks Fi
Author:  PaulineS [ Wed May 21, 2008 8:13 pm ]
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i hope you will not leave so waiting too long.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Wed May 21, 2008 9:21 pm ]
Post subject: 
The plot thickens still further - I know if we are patient all will be revealed, but please, if you love your readers, Abbeygirl, don't keep us waiting too long for the denouement of this!!!! :) :)
Author:  Tara [ Wed May 21, 2008 10:43 pm ]
Post subject: 
Just caught up and am still on a cliff! Not fair!
I felt so sorry for both Betty and Hilda. Betty was more foolish than evil, though of course Hilda couldn't keep her in those circumstances, but having to send her away knowing what it would mean - no wonder she looks intimidating.

I'm just off to catch up on the latest Temple, too.

This is really great, abbeygirl.
Author:  Shander [ Thu May 22, 2008 4:15 am ]
Post subject: 
Not to complain or anything, but did you have to leave it there? :( :?
I've no clue who it could be.
Please up date soon.
:help:
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Thu May 22, 2008 1:32 pm ]
Post subject: 
You can't leave it there! Thats not fair :x
Author:  Miss Di [ Fri May 23, 2008 5:19 am ]
Post subject: 
Pleeeeeeease don't leave us hanging here too long!
Author:  di [ Fri May 23, 2008 5:46 am ]
Post subject: 
'I want some more...!' Please don't leave us too long in suspense, I reckon the 2nd traitor is Matey!!
Thank you, Fi.
Author:  MHE [ Sun May 25, 2008 7:30 pm ]
Post subject: 
I switched the radio on 5 minutes ago and heared the tail end of an interview with the actress who plays Steve in the 'Madison Mystery' - off to listen again.
Author:  Sarah J [ Sun May 25, 2008 10:32 pm ]
Post subject: 
Just caught up with this - all apart from the first post actually! RL has been so busy lately that I've had no time to read all these lovely drabbles. So there I was gleefully thinking I'd missed all those cliffs only to fall straight over this last one! Thoroughly enjoyed all so far but update soon please!
Author:  abbeygirl [ Thu May 29, 2008 5:20 pm ]
Post subject: 
Apologies for the wait and also the German (had to use the automatic translator rather than my tame one, so is probably rather less than standard German). Sorry it is so long - but the thought of facing you all if I put in another cliff was more than I could face!

The little group in the Study remained more or less silent when it became clear that Steve was simply not going to talk. Some of them briefly considered torturing the information from her, but in the end decided that it might be better to wait. The went over and over the events of the past few weeks in their own minds, and the points Steve had raised, trying to come up with a name – any name. The coffee flowed and cigarettes were lit and still Paul did not come.

Nerves were almost at fraying point when at last Paul came back into the room. He looked sombre and nodded imperceptibly to Steve at her enquiring look. She sighed and sat down heavily.

This was in stark contrast to the other ladies in the room who had already set up a clamour at the first sight of Paul, all demanding to know what was going on!

“Do take a seat ladies – I promise faithfully to explain everything to you – right now. Does everyone have a drink Steve?”

“Yes darling. Now do get on with it!” she replied – an exclamation that was echoed in all four corners of the room.

He looked around teasingly for a moment and then his face became very serious. “ Miss Annersley said that that child Betty was truthful. So we know that it was she who left the door open to let him look round the lockers but that was pretty much the extent of her involvement. In any case she couldn’t possibly have known that he Chart had been recovered – only my wife, Mrs Maynard, Miss Annersley and Miss Wilson knew that. Not only that, but someone told Her Wolfe not only that it had been found, but that it was to be hidden not at the school but at Mrs Maynard’s house. Again that can’t have been Betty. It was also highly unlikely that a pupil would make an appointment to meet anyone after dark – it must have been someone who knew that they would be free at that time. And Betty couldn’t have known about the phone call to my wife – nor indeed that she was my wife – as far as the pupils all knew – she was Steve Trent the newspaper reporter.” He tailed off at this point and let that sink in.

Nell was the first to speak “But that makes it sound as if you think it was one of us – her in the study?” she began “Surely no-one else knew all those things – apart from Madge of course, and you can’t seriously suspect her!”

“Well that isn’t quite true –“ Paul started but was halted by a hearty rap on the door. His face lit up and he rushed to open the door before Hilda could respond. He threw open the door and there was Evan Evans, his hands tightly holding onto a woman. “Here you are Sir!” he exclaimed, becoming very Welsh in the process – she was right where you said she would be. I told her she had to come quietly if she didn’t want everyone to know about her.” He thrust her none too gently through the door where she collapsed, sobbing on the floor, and then stood waiting for Paul’s approval. It came quickly.

“Well done Evans! Splendid job. I’m sure I don’t need to tell you that all this must be completely forgotten?”

“You can rely on me!” exclaimed Evan Evans, drawing himself up to his full height. He gratefully accepted the large tip Paul handed to him and took himself back to his beloved potting shed. It was a shame that he couldn’t tell his cronies down the pub about this – but it was something to have helped Paul Temple solve one of his mysteries – and the money would certainly come in useful. But who would have thought it! And then he dismissed the matter from his mind – and never referred to it again.


********


Joey Maynard, Nell Wilson and Hilda Annersley had instinctively gone to try and comfort the crumpled heap on the floor – but all these laudable intentions went out of the window as they realized just who it was.

For a moment there was a stunned silence before Joey spoke, her normal golden tones, harsh with shock and disappointment. “Rosalie?” she said quietly, brokenly?


*********

They turned to Paul Temple who stood sadly watching them. Steve had drawn closer to her husband, knowing what this discovery must mean to these women who had so quickly – at least until now – become friends. She was not really one of them – and had been responsible with her husband for the exposure of their friend, and Steve thought it best not to intrude just now.

“But?..?” was all even the composed Miss Annersley could manage. They were stunned. What did this mean? Surely Rosalie – not Rosalie! – she can’t be involved! Paul must have made some sort of terrible mistake. But if so why was Rosalie lying crumpled on the study floor, sobbing as if her heart would break. If it was a mistake, would she not be protesting her innocence!

“I don’t understand.” Said Joey flatly, her voice still almost unrecognizable.

“I set a trap. Oh Steve had a good idea of who might be responsible, but there was no proof and we knew that you would never believe it unless we did. When I left the study earlier, it was to arrange for one of the maids to deliver a letter and for Evan Evans to lie in wait. I thought the traitor would come as soon as they could and I was right.”

“What did the letter say? Was it really so incriminating?” enquired Nell – her analytical mind starting to examine all the possibilities.
“Judge for yourself” replied Paul handing her a copy of the note that had sent Rosalie Dene to her Nemesis.

Nell, Hilda and Joey all eagerly scanned the note which read simply.


“Ich bin entkommen. Sie müssen mir helfen, wegzukommen. Treffen Sie mich an der Hütte am hinteren von der Schule. Eric”

(I have escaped. You must help me get away. Meet me at the shed at the back of the school.)

And as they took in the contents of the note, there was a sharp gasp from one of them. If Rosalie had received that note and had instantly responded to it, then there was very little chance that there could be an innocent explanation. It looked as if Rosalie Dene – Hilda’s trusted secretary and an old girl of the school – was indeed a traitor to her country.


********

In the meantime, Steve had gone to Rosalie and helped her to a comfortable chair. She had managed to check the sobs that seemed in danger of becoming hysterical, by the simple expedient of slapping Rosalie sharply on each cheek. Rosalie had stared at her in disbelief but the uncontrolled sobbing had stopped. Steve handed Rosalie her own handkerchief and told her in no uncertain terms that her only chance was to tell them her story – to make them understand why she had done what she had.

Rosalie stared at her almost blankly and then as she really looked at the shocked expressions of the three women she had regarded as her friends, nearly collapsed again.

“Why Rosalie? Why?” almost whispered Joey who was close to fainting at the thought Rosalie – a woman she had counted as friend for years – could have betrayed her country as well as her closest friends - and Rosalie realized that she would indeed need to tell them everything – and hope that they would – not forgive her, she knew that her actions were unforgivable – but perhaps might understand why she had become a traitor to her country.


To be concluded…..
Author:  PaulineS [ Thu May 29, 2008 5:33 pm ]
Post subject: 
You said would avoid a cliff! But you still left us with one!!!!

Thanks for the update,
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Thu May 29, 2008 6:12 pm ]
Post subject: 
And you call that not leaving us on a cliff.....!!! Shame on you! :) :) Oh well, I suppose if we wait patiently, you will allow us to hear Rosalie's explanation for her role in all this.

Thanks, Abbeygirl
Author:  abbeybufo [ Thu May 29, 2008 6:20 pm ]
Post subject: 
Elder in Ontario wrote:
I suppose if we wait patiently, you will allow us to hear Rosalie's explanation for her role in all this.


And it had better be good :evil: - you didn't tell me this was going to happen :twisted:
Author:  roversgirl [ Thu May 29, 2008 6:36 pm ]
Post subject: 
That IS a cliff - but thanks for the update. I'll be interested to hear her reasons. Thanks :)
Author:  Sarah J [ Thu May 29, 2008 6:40 pm ]
Post subject: 
:o :o :o
Author:  MHE [ Thu May 29, 2008 7:43 pm ]
Post subject: 
Elder in Ontario wrote
Quote:
And you call that not leaving us on a cliff.....!!! Shame on you! Oh well, I suppose if we wait patiently, you will allow us to hear Rosalie's explanation for her role in all this.


Will now spend the rest of the evening wondering what possible explanation Rosalie will have - it had better be a very good one - I can't imagine what Hilda and Nell are thinking at this moment.
Author:  Mona [ Fri May 30, 2008 6:56 am ]
Post subject: 
Please don't leave us hanging too long waiting for Rosalie's explanation.

Thanks!
Author:  di [ Fri May 30, 2008 7:42 am ]
Post subject: 
I would never have suspected Rosalie of such awful deeds - she must have a plausible [if not acceptable] reason. Perhaps she was being blackmailed herself by the Germans.
Great update, please don't keep us on tenterhooks for too long!
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Fri May 30, 2008 12:33 pm ]
Post subject: 
Elder in Ontario wrote:
And you call that not leaving us on a cliff.....!!! Shame on you! :) :) Oh well, I suppose if we wait patiently, you will allow us to hear Rosalie's explanation for her role in all this.

Thanks, Abbeygirl


I can't believe you're leaving it there. I would never have thought of her simple because I wouldn't have wanted to believe it.

Thanks, but hope you don't wait too long to update
Author:  Kathy_S [ Fri May 30, 2008 3:02 pm ]
Post subject: 
Golly! I never suspected.
Author:  Alex [ Sun Jun 01, 2008 6:06 pm ]
Post subject: 
Since I've been listening to the Madison Mystery I've come to the conclusion that there aren't enough dead bodies in this drabble abbeygirl. Looking forward to hearing the end though (and I reckon Paul Temple could easily show up again at the CS...Redheads...sends bunny food).
Author:  meerium [ Tue Jun 03, 2008 11:39 am ]
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Abbeygirl, come back! I think you've forgotten a bit of the story....

Absolutely loving this :D
Author:  abbeygirl [ Sat Jun 07, 2008 8:05 pm ]
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With thanks to Ruth for the use of her character! and to everyone for the comments that keep you going. The first long story I've ever completed - and there is a great deal of satisfaction in that. I know that for a proper Paul Temple there were nowhere near enough bodies... but maybe next time?

[color=cyan]Warning - this is a long post!!!![/color]

Rosalie sat alone on the sofa. It would have looked at bit incongruous to a casual observer, with one small, slight woman sitting in state on the big sofa that dominated the room, with the remaining occupants all squashed on the other side. But no-one suggested moving to sit next to Rosalie. Not yet anyway. Her hands were clasped tightly together, the only way she could control their trembling, and the grip was so intense, the fingers were gradually turning white.

She began to speak, her voice barely audible. She realised this almost immediately and clearing her dry throat, she began again, louder this time.

“I don’t know if you remember when I left the school? I was 17. I was needed at home and then mother died and though I wanted to stay with father, he decided that I should go right away for a while. I didn’t want to go, but father insisted – he said if I got my secretarial training, then I could be more useful to him in the Parish. I agreed of course. I knew my duty was to help my father and I wanted to of course. I couldn’t disobey him so I soon found myself at a secretarial training College in London and boarding with an old friend of his – The Reverend Ellis. She… “ and here – just for a moment – Rosalie faltered, before recovering herself with an effort and continuing “ She introduced me to a man – boy really I suppose – called Ronald – Ronald Morris.” And as she spoke that name, Rosalie fell silent, lost for a moment in her memories.

She was recalled to the present by the veriest hint of a cough from one of her deeply interested audience and shaking herself, continued her narrative. “I was very lonely... and naïve … and he was kind to me. You have to remember that I had gone straight from school, where we were very sheltered, to my father’s house and again led a very restricted life. Oh please don’t misunderstand me. I was very happy at home, but there is no denying the life did not prepare me for London. Anyway, Ronald continued to be very kind to me and several times took me to a sort of youth club he attended. They all seemed very nice people too. I thought at first I would have nothing to talk about, but they were all very interested in my time in Austria and the school and everything, and it made me feel very relaxed and at ease. I truly liked them. And then it all went horribly wrong.” Rosalie bit the lip that would tremble despite her best efforts to control it. “I discovered one night that they were Jew haters – all of them and I couldn’t understand why? I began to think that maybe they weren’t so nice after all and I tried to break away. I don’t remember what happened after that. I know Ronald saw me home and told Mrs Ellis that I had had a funny turn and wasn’t it lucky he had been there to help me. I truly couldn’t remember much about that evening – but I do know that from that point on, I couldn’t bear to be near Ronald. He eventually got the message – and left me alone – at least I thought he had.”

Rosalie cleared her throat again and Steve gave her a glass of water, which she accepted gratefully. She sipped it and then began to speak once more. “It was after the move to Armiford. I received a letter from a man called Michael. He said that we had a mutual friend in a man called Ronald Morris and stated that it would be in my best interests to make arrangements to meet him. I threw the letter on the fire at once and tried to forget it – I knew I never wanted to see or hear about Ronald ever again. A few weeks later another letter arrived. It made the same suggestion – but this time enclosed a photograph which – he said – explained just why I should do as he asked. It was a picture of me ---- in --- in a very compromising position at the club and with the Nazi flag clearly apparent. The letter went on to say that this not all I had to worry about – but that he would discuss it all when I made the appointment to see him. Well I did. I was so frightened of what they could do. And he had more photographs and a complete record of my involvement with the Brown shirts – mostly invented – but there were pictures and affidavits and he told me that if I didn’t cooperate with them that they would be passing this information on to my employers, my father – and the bishop. You know father hasn’t been all that well and to see all this would have killed him – not to mention lost him his job – and with his new wife – well I couldn’t take the risk. They promised me that it would not hurt the school and so I agreed....”

“But how could you think that helping the Nazi’s to find the Erisay chart would not hurt the school” burst out Joey, who could remain silent no longer.

“O Joey don’t be so naieve!” cried Rosalie “You can’t possibly think that was what they asked me first! I was just asked to find a billet in the village for a man and vouch for him to his landlady. They swore that that would be it, they would never bother me again and all the photographs and documents would be destroyed. I wasn’t happy – but knew I could live with that.” She stopped and the soft voice of Hilda Annersely broke in. “But of course that wasn’t all. They’d gone to too much trouble to set you up to be satisfied with that small thing. And now they had you right where they wanted – you had now actively helped the enemy.”

“I felt so stupid!” cried Rosalie. “I can’t describe the relief at the thought the nightmare was over and somehow that made it all the more horrific when they came back. I knew it was wrong and told them to go to hell, but they reminded me of the Bishop’s reaction and they knew that Jenny – my stepmother – had just had a miscarriage. I just couldn’t face what it would do to them – the scandal, the loss of income just when they needed it for medical bills so I gave in. It was me that Eric was supposed to be meeting the night I said I was attacked. We were interrupted by Evan Evans and there was no time for him to get away unseen, so I made up that story. He knew about the Erisay chart – he told me he had met a girl from the school who had let out rather too much information and said that it was a good thing for me – he could use her for some of the least important stuff – which meant less risk for me. But I told him that the chart had been discovered and also where it was.” Rosalie stopped and looked straight at Joey at that point. “I had to tell him about Rufus – but he promised he would not hurt him.”

Joey had stiffened at the news of the fresh betrayal. Rosalie knew how much she loved her Rufus – particularly as she had never thought to see him again after leaving the Tyrol and the idea that she could have put him in danger like that was …was… She shook her head in denial and could not look at her friend.

Rosalie looked stricken but resigned and continued her story. “The thing that I most regret though is telling Eric about the call that Mrs Evans made. I had called him to warn him that Mrs Temple was at the school incognito and Mrs Evans must have listenend into the call. She couldn’t have recognized my voice straight away – but obviously did later on – and that’s why she wouldn’t talk to you on the school phone – she knew I would be listening in. I didn’t realise that he would kill her though – I .. well I was panicking by this stage and I don’t suppose I was thinking at all by that stage…” she halted and Steve and Joey – who had both seen Mrs Evans body hardened their hearts.

“I heardm he had been captured and was on tenterhooks in case he gave me away. I’m ashamed to admit it was a relief when he identified Betty and I hoped that the whole miserable business was at an end. You can imagine how I felt when I received that note. I thought it was all starting again. I know it is hard to believe – and I don’t blame you – but the only reason I went to the shed that last time was to tell him that I was finished with the whole thing. I just did not care what they did any more. I had done enough damage. And then Evans Evans caught me and brought me here. And now you know the whole story. I know it means nothing – but I am deeply sorry.” And Rosalie fell silent. Her head dropped and she would not look at anyone in the room.

The silence that now enveloped the room was absolute. Hilda, nell and Joey struggled to come to terms with what and why Rosalie had done what she had done and each of them was putting themselves in her shoes and trying to work out just how they would have reacted. It was all very well to have said that they would have told the Nazi’s to publish and be dammed – but it was not just about Rosalie – this would have affected a number of innocent lives. They – each and every one of them – deplored her decision, but equally so could now understand why they had done it. Even Joey – perhaps worst affected by the betrayal – knew just how far she would go to protect her beloved daughters and felt the stirrings of understanding.

“So what happens to Rosalie now?” asked Nell eventually.

Paul Temple looked gravely at her. “Well in some way that depends on you.” And his glance swept round Hilda, Nell and Joey. “As far as the rest of the world is concerned, the traitor has been identified and punished. Eric Wolfe believes he has successfully pulled the wool over our eyes and that there is a Nazi contact ready and waiting for his replacement. We – that is to say the government – don’t want to do anything that will lead the Germans to think that her cover is blown. Ideally Rosalie – Miss Dene I’m sorry – will stay here in case contact is made. If you feel that this is not going to be possible then she will need to be found other work in the locality. But either way I’m afraid I’m going to have to ask you not to mention the fact of her treachery outside this room.”

His gaze raked the room. He looked at their faces one by one to see if he could judge their possible reactions, but both Hilda and Nell were past masters at disguising their emotions – they had to be! And Joey’s face was still blank.

Eventually Hilda stirred. “I had no choice but to expel Betty. Once the whole school knew about her actions her life would not have been worth living at school. But it hurt – badly – to do this nonetheless. If I could have given her another chance I would have done – after all doesn’t Our Lord tell us to forgive seven times seven? Rosalie’s involvement is more serious I know, but if we are to ask for forgiveness as we ourselves forgive, then we have no choice.” She rose and moved over to the sofa. Holding Rosalie’s hand in her own she said simply “Rosalie, I am sorry you had to face this alone. For what it is worth I forgive you – but I have to be honest my dear – it will be some time before I feel able to trust you. As far as I am concerned you may stay – but it must be with the full agreement of us all.” With that she turned to look at Nell – her other half. Nell who was quick to anger especially when those whom she loved were affected, but who also had the biggest heart in the world. Which way would she jump?

“I don’t like this!” Nell exclaimed eventually, after the silence had grown oppressive. “My first instinct is to tell you to get out and never come back – but I am aware that in a case like this, Hilda’s way is usually the right one. I am torn I admit – but I will follow Hilda’s lead. Rosalie can stay.”

All eyes now turn to Joey. Rosalie has been her friend ever since they were both at school together. Joey trusted her and her betrayal bites deep. But Joey thinks of her own family and knows if they were threatened she would do anything she had to, to keep them safe and … in Belsornia there had been decisions she had had to make that were sometimes more expedient than morally sound. “Ros… I understand why you did it, but I’ll be honest. It’s going to take me a while to come to terms with it. However, if this is what Hilda and Nell want, then I will not stand in their way.”

Paul Temple heaved a sigh of relief. “Thank you ladies. This will make life a lot easier for us all. We’ll take Rosalie away with us now for debriefing and return her to you in due course. I’m sure you’ll be able to concoct some story to please everyone?” Hilda simply nodded. At a signal from Paul, Rosalie stood up, ready to leave. She hesitated a moment and then decided to speak. “Thank you” she said fervently – her gaze taking in everyone in the room. “I know I don’t deserve your forgiveness but before God I promise that one day I’ll make it up to you all.” With that she left the room to go with Sir Graham and Paul Temple to make what amends she could by telling them everything she knew about the Nazi’s and their operations in Armiford. How she kept her promise, and was accepted freely and fully back into the Chalet School fold, is another story.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Sat Jun 07, 2008 8:37 pm ]
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I must say I feel sorry for Rosalie, whose very naivete drew her into scenarios which were so far beyond her control at this point. I'm glad that in the end she can keep her job at the school. So in that respect, at least, it's a satisfying ending, and we can trust that things will go better for Rosalie in the future. Thanks Abbeygirl.

Quote:
How she kept her promise, and was accepted freely and fully back into the Chalet School fold, is another story

And is *this* story already written, or at least a glimmer in the back of your mind, Abbeygirl? I hope so.

Sends a tape of the 'Coronation Scot' theme to aid inspiration. More Paul Temple please!!!
Author:  di [ Sat Jun 07, 2008 8:48 pm ]
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Ooh, I didn't want this to end!! Please are we to have the other story? I do hope so.
Poor Rosalie, 'caught between the devil and the deep...' She didn't realise what she was getting in to when she went out with that snake, Ronald, and I'm pleased that Hilda, Nell and Joey gave her a second chance.
Thank you so much. :)
Author:  abbeybufo [ Sat Jun 07, 2008 8:52 pm ]
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Thanks Fi :D

Now I can get on with mine . . . :twisted:
Author:  Dawn [ Sun Jun 08, 2008 12:27 am ]
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Although I've never read/heard any Paul Temple, i've really enjoyed this - thankyou very much

and please may we have the "another story"? :D
Author:  Kathy_S [ Sun Jun 08, 2008 3:44 am ]
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I tend to be confused by crossovers where I don't know the other universe, but this one has left me wanting more. Hope that last sentence means there'll be a sequel!
Author:  Jenefer [ Sun Jun 08, 2008 11:08 am ]
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Thanks Abbeygirl. Have enjoyed this and am hoping for another Paul Temple story soon.
Author:  meerium [ Mon Jun 09, 2008 12:43 pm ]
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That was super, Abbeygirl! Poor Rosalie :(
Author:  Mona [ Mon Jun 09, 2008 1:54 pm ]
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Thank you!
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Tue Jun 10, 2008 5:33 am ]
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Thank you. I do feel sorry for Rosalie and what she got caught up in especially out of naivety
Author:  Lesley [ Tue Jun 10, 2008 6:48 am ]
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I have just read this from start to finish - and am now going to be late for work! Can't imagine how I managed to miss it when it was being posted - and will definitely be on the look out for any sequels. Must admit though - the number of times my name was slandered by all and sundry...


Absolutely fabulous, abbeygirl, seamless match with Highland Twins, explanations for things left up in the air by EBD, introduction of new characters and excellent rendition of old.

Thank you. :lol:
Author:  Elbee [ Fri Jun 13, 2008 8:58 am ]
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That was brilliant, Abbeygirl, thank you very much. Poor Rosalie, but I'm glad she's getting another chance.
Author:  Miss Di [ Mon Jun 16, 2008 3:40 am ]
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That was super Abbeygirl. And I'm so glad RL has kept me away from the board so I missed the cliffhanger. I look forward to getting stuck into the sequel!
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