The CBB :: View topic - "O Canada!" FINISHED 20th April 2008

Thanks, Phil. Sybil draws the short straw again.

I do really want an explanation for this. Margot goes to Canada for the sake of her health. OK. I can accept that, but what's wrong with her is chest trouble. Just the sort of problem that Jem treated in the San, which at this time was situated in the Welsh hills because of the healthy, life-giving air.

Why was the San good enough to cure TB sufferers and not Margot?

Is this a major EBDism?

Dr Levine picked up Ailie who started to gurgle at him. "She's a bonny lass! Quite like..."
His face was briefly creased in pain as he put Ailie down.

Can understand Margot feeling like that really - she is only ten after all. Interesting that Josette, who is only a year older, is so much more mature.

Thanks Phil.

"Uncle Jem, can you take us to Hollywood next time please?"

Madge and Jem looked shocked.

Washington is a great city for visiting (I went back last October and had great fun)[/i]

Inwardly Madge muttered, "Not again!"

Author:	Phil [ Mon Dec 17, 2007 1:01 am ]
Post subject:	"O Canada!" FINISHED 20th April 2008
Jem Russell picked up the file he had secretly been dreading. This was personal. This was his niece. MARY MARGARET MAYNARD d.o.b. 05/11/39 Jem always felt a little shiver when dealing with the medical problems of his family. Bad luck seemed to follow him. He had grieved at being unable to help his parents as they died of their injuries in a car accident. His mother outlived his father by a few weeks; then the death of his long lost and beloved sister Margot. Finally there had been Josette's terrible accident! The perpetrator of that dreadful deed had sunk into a deep depression and nearly starved herself to death. Yes, Sybil could have died of a broken heart. Family illnesses worried Jem greatly, but he would never show that. Not even to Jack; although he had a suspicion that the ever perceptive Jack Maynard was aware of this. There was no doubt reading through the case notes that Margot needed a new life where there was better quality air and better facilities! Jem did a double take at the letter and prospectus that he had been perusing for the past week. Canada. Should he take this post? He knew that both he and Madge still had a zest for travel and neither of them had visited North America yet. There were so many things to consider: Josette was still fragile, Margot was now a "regular" at the San and yet if Jack would agree... Jem picked up the telephone and asked his secretary to summon Dr Maynard to his office.

Author:	JustJen [ Mon Dec 17, 2007 3:24 am ]
Post subject:
Gee I'm sounding like a brokenrecord tonight but this looks good. I've often wondered how Jem talked Jack into letting Margot go to the great white north

Author:	Fiona Mc [ Mon Dec 17, 2007 8:27 am ]
Post subject:
Phil this looks really intriguing and am curious about this side of the trip

Author:	leahbelle [ Mon Dec 17, 2007 6:14 pm ]
Post subject:
Looking forward to reading more of this!

Author:	Fatima [ Tue Dec 18, 2007 4:25 am ]
Post subject:
I always felt very sorry for Jo having to send Margot away and for Margot being sent away, even though it was with the Russells. I'm looking forward to more of this, Phil.

The CBB http://www.the-cbb.co.uk/

"O Canada!" FINISHED 20th April 2008 http://www.the-cbb.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=14&t=3758

Author:	Phil [ Sat Dec 22, 2007 6:04 pm ]
Post subject:
Jem decided not to beat about the bush and try and soften Jack up. Jack appreciated candour. It would still be a shock to him. "Hullo Jem! What did you want to see me about?" Jem waved Margot's case notes at him. "I've been going over Margot's case notes Jack." Fear flowed over Jack's face at once. Was the poor child going to suffer any more? Jack was aghast. "I have an opportunity to help her and I need you to understand." "Spit it out Jem old boy." Jack was puzzled. "I am accepting this post in Canada. I shall be taking Madge and Josette and Ailie with me. I must take Margot as well. Jack, I have to. It's for your own daughter's survival. It's no good thinking of making her life comfortable now and being resigned to the fact that it will be a short one! Jack listen to me! I am not wasting this opportunity to make a perfectly healthy niece! Just look at these treatments Jack. Jack! Look at them! These are widely available in North American sanatoria. It would take at least twenty years for these drugs to be available in the UK and Europe. Twenty Years! It's a scandal! If Margot comes to Canada, she will be in perfect condition in no time and the air quality is so much better than here. Jack! You're not looking at the evidence! Just look at it please and look at your daughter's case notes! I implore you! Some of these other therapies, they take time for them to cross the Atlantic. Here in the UK it's always a 'lack of money' or wretched red tape delaying these potentially life saving treatments. Margot can't wait Jack! You know that!" Jack Maynard's mind was reeling. Take Margot away? For how long? How could he tell Joey and the girls? Jack heeded his brother in law by marriage. He read and re read the case notes and the treatments recommended. They seemed to fit Margot like a glove. Jack also had to own that Joey's philosophy of being resigned to the fact Margot may have a short life was defeatist. Margot should have every chance! Jem left Jack alone. It was lunchtime when a white faced and tired Jack emerged from Jem's office. "Well?" said Jem gently. He was a little ashamed of using such whirlwind tactics on Jack, but he felt he had to be blunt. He poured Jack a drink. "I have read the evidence over again. I have read Margot's case notes over again. That awful throat infection at the school I thought we might lose her for good!" Jack nearly broke into tears at this point, but held back. "This is the best option for her isn't it? I'm afraid Joey is going to have to accept it." Jem nodded. "I've told Madge in case you need some support. I'm sure Madge will remind Joey of how she was ill as a little girl and how Madge and Dick would have done anything to relieve her suffering and make her bright and healthy." Jack nodded. Anything to prevent Margot suffering the same way her mother did. Joey had just put Michael to sleep when Jack broke the news. It took a good three hours to convince Joey and Michael put in his wails as a contribution. Eventually Jack hit a nerve when he said, "Margot has an opportunity for life in the way you never did when you were ill. Spare yourself the same torment Madge and Dick went through whenever you were sick and do this for Margot!" So it was decided. All that remained now to tell Margot herself.

Author:	Fiona Mc [ Mon Dec 24, 2007 8:35 am ]
Post subject:
Poor Jem for having to break the news and poor Jack for having to get the news. Thanks Phil

Author:	Phil [ Mon Dec 24, 2007 11:03 am ]
Post subject:
The triplets, Stephen and Charles were playing in the little pond at the bottom of the garden; Anna's watchful eye was upon them. At length a quarrel broke out. Margot had been hogging one of the fishing nets and was resolute in her refusal to lend hers to her brothers. "You will only break it or lose it like the silly clumsy baby boys you are!" "Not a baby!" Charles calmly rejected. The boys ignored Margot's taunts. Con and Len quietly handed their fishing nets over to their brothers. Margot kept taunting the boys. "Cry baby! Cry baby! Boys are so stupid! Why does Mama even want boys?" Len and Con tried to intervene, but Margot was enjoying herself. She loved a bit of teasing, except when it was doled out to her! Furious that she was getting no reaction, she leapt upon Steve and gave him such a violent shove he fell right over in the water, his head came up covered in pond weed. "Margot!" Anna was shocked. Margot laughed. No emotion showed in young Steve's face; but he eyed his big sister, three years his senior. Suddenly with the celerity of a cat and the ferocity of a lion, the normally placid Stephen Maynard launched himself at the mocking, nasty, spiteful and cowardly girl. Margot was shocked by this ball of fury hurling itself in her direction and before she had time to react, she was bowled over and her face was buried in the muddy bed of the pond. The infuriated Steve seemed to be possessed of a super human strength and he well and truly soused his sister. Margot's red gold hair was now crowned with pond weed and she was furious, indeed she resembled the Medusa. Before poor Anna could wade in to separate the two, a furious bark was heard. "WHAT IN THE NAME OF THUNDER IS GOING ON HERE?" It seemed as if the trees shook and the clouds in the sky shrunk. Jack Maynard was in a violent rage. All the children started to cry and poor Anna looked weepy. "Herrr Doktor, I am so sorry, Margot began to tease Stephen and then he..." "I can imagine. Fear not Anna, You are not to blame, take Len, Con and Charles inside. I shall deal with these two." Len tried to put in a plea for her siblings, but one look from her enraged parent sent her scampering home, clutching Anna as she went. "Both of you are going straight to bed for the rest of the day!" "But Papa! I wanted the fishing net and Steve kept trying to take it!" "I did not! I asked for the net about a hundred times!" "I had only just got it from Len!" "Liar! Len had her own net and you had that one for ages and Anna told you about ten years ago to lend us your net!" "Be silent!" snapped Jack. "I am ashamed to think you are my children. Such silly little bickering and fighting and just look at the state of your clothes. What will your mother say?" Steve and Margot wept. Jack escorted the criminals to the house where they were met by a very stern looking Joey. At the sight of their mother's reproachful glare, the tears increased. "Crying won't help you! I should advise you to stop that at once! Now wash yourselves and go straight to bed, without a sound! I have just put your little brother to sleep and if you dare wake him, there will be all hell to pay!" There was no doubt Joey was furious. As Stephen and Margot went to bed, they could hear Joey's exclamations at their clothes. "Ruined! Utterly ruined! I've a good mind to bring a cane round!" Jack's face was grim. "Margot still has to be told Joey." "Can't we put it off for today?" "Very well." Jack agreed. Margot had received one shock for today. Later on as Jack and Joey were going to bed, they were overheard by their triplet daughters. "I don't know for how long we shall send Margot to Canada. I just hope her behaviour improves too!" Jack's voice was loud and clear and Mama agreed with him. Len and Con gasped in terror and Margot broke out into tears. her sisters quickly followed and soon the whole nursery was roused. Jack and Joey entered and at once pleas of mercy were heaped upon them. "Please don't send Margot away forever Papa!" "Please don't send Margot away! Any other punishment Papa, but don't send her away!" "I'm sorry I soaked Margot today Papa! Please don't send her away, she's a good sister, really she is!" Jack and Joey gathered their small brood around them. "Now what is all this nonsense?" said Jack in the caring paternal voice they all loved. "Heard you say Margot was going away to Canada!" sobbed Len. "And we might never see each other again!" bawled Con. Margot was hysterical and Jack had to give her some medicine to calm down. "Darlings, nobody is being sent away as a punishment! It's just Margot has never been very well. You remember that awful throat infection she had and Papa and I nearly lost her when she was a baby and she had bronchitis. Luckily Uncle Jem has a treatment for her, and he has got to go to Canada where the air is better so Margot can get well. So Margot isn't being sent away, but she is going on an adventure with Uncle Jem, Auntie Madge, Josette and Ailie!" "But why can't we all go?" asked Con. "It may only be for a short time and Margot is the only one who needs this special treatment." "Can't she be treated here?" asked Len. "No my love, it has to be Canada, because they have a lot more medicine and money than we do and the air is better." "Will I ever come back?" A frail Margot asked, clutching her father for support. "Of course you will Margot! You will be a bright bouncing big girl when you return and we shall write you lots of letters and you can take lots of photos and send them to us! Just think of it as a big adventure!" The Maynard children were too tired to argue, but accepted their parents' word about Margot's big adventure. Margot had been told now. Preparations for the voyage could begin in earnest!

Author:	abbeybufo [ Mon Dec 24, 2007 5:13 pm ]
Post subject:
Gosh Lovely to see the background for somehting that is so casually skated over in the books. Thanks, Phil

Author:	Fatima [ Mon Dec 24, 2007 5:30 pm ]
Post subject:
What a shock for Margot, hearing it discussed like that just after she'd been in so much trouble. Thanks Phil.

Author:	Chair [ Mon Dec 24, 2007 10:28 pm ]
Post subject:
Thanks, Phil. I feel sorry for Margot. She is going to be separated from her parents and her siblings.

Author:	Phil [ Tue Dec 25, 2007 7:32 pm ]
Post subject:
Margot was quite numb with shock the following day. The Maynards went round to the Russells who were hosting a big family dinner. The Bettanys had been invited too and the news that the Russells were off to Canada was announced to the family. It seemed so unreal. There was a far away land which Margot didn't have much interest in, she was to be parted from her family and goodness alone knows when she would return. All attention was focussed on poor Margot and the triplets. How would they cope? Dick and Madge were very concerned for Joey. How would she cope? Nobody seemed to notice a red eyed Sybil who was as white as a sheet. Sybil was to be parted from her beloved parents and the sister whom she had nearly killed and she was supposed to be grown up and stoical about this!? Wisely, poor Sybil kept her tears and opinions to herself. She would only be given a severe scolding from Auntie Joey for trying to make herself the centre of attention. Margot herself was given all sorts of ideas about what a fantastic adventure it would be: Acres of snow and skiing, polar bears, grizzly bears, the Great Prairies, the United States of America next door! They could even get to see New York and the Statue of Liberty. There was lots of shopping to be done. A new trunk was purchased. Con insisted that a new trunk and three of everything be bought for all the triplets to ensure Margot would not forget she was a triplet. Jack and Joey laughed this off saying this was too expensive and it was just Margot who needed some new things bought. Margot did notice however that when certain family occasions were discussed she was excluded, and it hurt. "Yes please, four children's tickets for the theatre pantomime, Aladdin. The name is Maynard." "Why only four tickets Mama?" "Darling you will be sailing to Canada when Len, Con, Steve and Charles will be at the theatre!" or "We shall see Snow White at the cinema on the fifteenth, yes I know it's a week after Margot sails..." or even "You two girls had better have a special surprise for Papa's birthday." It seemed so final! It seemed so depressing and Margot became rather detached from everything.

Author:	Fatima [ Tue Dec 25, 2007 7:58 pm ]
Post subject:
Poor Sybil, not even able to show how much she minds being left behind because she'll be told off! This is so sad. Thanks Phil.

Author:	Jennie [ Tue Dec 25, 2007 8:13 pm ]
Post subject:
Thanks, Phil. Sybil draws the short straw again. I do really want an explanation for this. Margot goes to Canada for the sake of her health. OK. I can accept that, but what's wrong with her is chest trouble. Just the sort of problem that Jem treated in the San, which at this time was situated in the Welsh hills because of the healthy, life-giving air. Why was the San good enough to cure TB sufferers and not Margot? Is this a major EBDism?

Author:	Alison H [ Thu Dec 27, 2007 6:50 pm ]
Post subject:
Ooh - wonder what's going to happen with this nice young doctor!

Author:	Lesley [ Sun Jan 06, 2008 8:29 am ]
Post subject:
Hmmm, wickedness from Margot is completely understandable though, surely? Thanks Phil.

Author:	Alison H [ Sun Jan 06, 2008 10:36 am ]
Post subject:
Poor Dr Levine. And couldn't they have been more sympathetic towards Margot - it's very upsetting losing a favourite teddy or doll when you're a child.

Author:	Alison H [ Tue Jan 08, 2008 10:17 pm ]
Post subject:
Oh dear!

Author:	Fiona Mc [ Wed Dec 26, 2007 10:24 am ]
Post subject:
Jennie wrote: Thanks, Phil. Sybil draws the short straw again. I do really want an explanation for this. Margot goes to Canada for the sake of her health. OK. I can accept that, but what's wrong with her is chest trouble. Just the sort of problem that Jem treated in the San, which at this time was situated in the Welsh hills because of the healthy, life-giving air. Why was the San good enough to cure TB sufferers and not Margot? Is this a major EBDism? I think healthwise, often what happens in your childhood stays with you and they do comment in the books a lot about the winters in th UK being wet and terrible. Joey was healthier living in Austria, so perhaps they thought Margot would be too.

Author:	Phil [ Wed Dec 26, 2007 2:37 pm ]
Post subject:
Margot Maynard did not know whether she was on her head or her heels. Her sisters followed her around, but Con would soon dissolve into tears, quickly followed by Len and herself. This proved stressful for Joey. As Margot's belongings were packed, so her little identity seemed to vanish, leaving only a bare bed. She still had time to have a row with her brothers and Jack lost his temper and shouted, "There will be none of this whilst you are in Canada!" Jack had actually meant he hoped there would be no such bad behaviour for Madge and Jem, unfortunately his daughter took it the wrong way and felt her father was actually pleased to be getting rid of her. Margot was steadily more pampered as the big day approached. A little camera and scrapbook was bought for her; and other sundry gifts from all the brevet aunts appeared. Joey joked that Margot would soon have more luggage than the Duchess of Windsor. Unfortunately such pampering gave Margot a very inflated idea of her own self importance and this was to prove a devil to overcome in later years for that young lady. There were more visits to the Russell household and it was noticeable how the Round House became steadily more and more bare. On one visit, Len and Con were most put out when Margot tried to bag Josette all to herself for a talk about the forthcoming trip. Only a reproachful glare from Josette made Margot think again an apologise with an uncommon meekness. Then the big day arrived. "Quickly my lambs! Up we get! We have to get to the docks! Come along! Anna, you are looking after the boys, yes, I've got Michael. He seems to be sleeping, you can never quite tell with him. Jack, where are your car keys? Jack?" "Mama! I've lost my scarf!" "Oh borrow one of mine!" "I can't find my glove Mama, the nice one Tante Simone gave me for Christmas!" "Oh Margot! How careless! If you can't find it, we shall have to send it to you by post!" "Shall we open the trunk and look Mama?" "No Constance you will not! Your Father nearly burst something trying to close that trunk last night!" "Joey aren't those infants ready yet? Hurry up at once!" barked Jack. Joey rolled her eyes and appeared to mutter something about how Jack should try organising the children and he wouldn't last five minutes with them anyway! The car ride was long. They had started off in the inky darkness of early morning and dawn broke as they reached Southampton. Jack parked his car and got out to meet Jem, who had been at the dock for the past two hours already, with Dick and Mollie who had driven the Russell family down. Dick and Mollie would be taking David and Sybil back with them until the new terms started at their respective schools. As the families spilled out onto the dock, all the children were amazed at the size of the ships, the crates of luggage, the gangplanks and the flags. "Uncle Jem, what ship are you sailing on?" "This one Stephen, the King Alfred the Great." Stephen Maynard stared in wonder at the liner 'King Alfred the Great'. She had a total of four funnels, a mast that seemed to pierce the sky, she had a black hull and Stephen watched the seawater lap around the white plimsoll line mark. Baby Michael seemed mesmerised. A loud "toot" was heard from the funnel nearly sending Joey into the water with shock. Michael creased his face as if to cry, but he decided he liked the sound and cheerfully "tooted" away. The children ran along the dockside, running the length of the ship, then they badgered the adults with all sorts of questions. When could they go on board, could the others see the cabin? Did Uncle Jem know where the cabins were? What time were they going to set sail? Was Auntie Madge... "Sh! Quiet!" said Jack in a firm voice as he and Jem were discussing the finer details of treatments and the San. The excitement was tempered by a filling lunch which Uncle Jem treated everyone to. Jack was pleased to meet an old friend from his Royal Navy days and Dick was discussing forestry with a Canadian lumberjack and his family who were on a return journey. At the last hour, the realiation dawned upon the family that they were to be parted. It was half past three and the ship was to sail at half past four. All passengers had to be on board within the hour. Joey burst into tears and kept promising Margot that "We shall never be parted again" Len and Con set up such howls and even Stephen and Charles looked tearful. "Please Joey baba don't make it harder." sobbed Madge. One member of the party hugged her little sister Josette and bravely fought off the tears with a vim. Inside, Sybil wanted to cry, cry and cry again. She was so desperately sad. Why was she being left behind? Was she still being punished? Would she ever be forgiven? She wanted to cry, but that would only bring down the wrath of Auntie Joey upon her head. Auntie Joey would be furious! How dare Sybil cry and upset her mother and family! How dare she? Sybil could envisage an angry Auntie Joey looking at her with contempt and suppressed rage. Sybil had no right to be upset after all the fuss she had caused! So, poor Sybil kept back the tears, and watched her great Aunt having hysterics. Sybil told Josette how much she loved her and how she hoped Josette wouldn't miss her too much and how Josette should write. Madge and Jem bade goodbye to their daughter and son. Sybil felt a glow of pride as Jem and Madge commented on how well she was taking their departure and how grown up she must be getting. Sybil desperately hoped Auntie Joey heard that. This was unlikely as Joey was still in floods of tears. David Russell heard and he started to pay Sybil a bit of attention. At least she still had her brother! David did not realise it, but he had relieved a great deal of tension and upset within Sybil, for which she was very grateful. An impatient "toot" of the ship's funnel was heard and Jem and family and Margot sped up the gangplank. Joey's grief was comparable to Dido's when that ancient Queen of Carthage had learnt that Aeneas had left her. The remaining Maynards, Russells and Bettanys all waved as the ship receded into the distance. The Russells and Margot became little specks of people on a boat going out to sea... Sybil was brave though.

Author:	Fatima [ Wed Dec 26, 2007 4:41 pm ]
Post subject:
Sybil was so brave, poor soul. I'm glad David took a little notice of her and cheered her a bit. Thanks Phil.

Author:	Phil [ Thu Dec 27, 2007 6:12 pm ]
Post subject:
The novelty of being at sea quickly wore off for young Margot. She had watched her family and the shoreline of the UK recede into the distance. She felt a lump of emotion in her throat. She suddenly remembered hundreds of things she had wanted to say to her parents and sisters. The "King Alfred the Great" had briefly docked at Cobh (formerly Queenstown) and Margot had sent a quick postcard to her family describing the smart uniforms of the sailors, the polished brass and varnished woodwork and hundreds of decks! There were lots of areas where children weren't allowed, Margot wrote sulkily, quite why she wasn't allowed on the Bridge or in the Engine Room, she couldn't fathom. There were lots of activities organised for children and Margot and Josette were quite happy to join in with these games. The ship had been crossing the Atlantic for some time now: the journey would take a couple of weeks. The Captain had announced they were heading north and passengers may take this opportunity to photograph icebergs and whales. Jem decided to make an unfortunate joke. "Look out for icebergs! Remember the Titanic!" Josette and Margot stared at him in horror as Jem summarised the tragedy which cost the lives of 1,500 people in the North Atlantic. Jem's joke went down like a lead balloon and he ended up with a hysterical daughter and niece on his hands! "Now girls! I was only joking! We are perfectly safe on this ship!" Madge had a bad headache and was not in the sunniest of tempers when she came into the cabin to find Margot and Josette cowering in a corner hanging on to each other and their life jackets. "What on Earth is the matter?" "Daddy said we were going to drown!" "We're going to sink like the Titanic! We're all going to die! Uncle Jem said so! I want to go home! I want Mama!" "Just a silly comment Madge darling!" "Jem really, you can be such a stupid fool at times! I knew I should never have left you alone with the children! Get out! You are no use here!" "But Madge!" "Just Go!" Madge slammed the door on her husband. She was not having much luck calming Margot and Josette down and she had a terrible headache and she began to cry herself. Margot and Josette took this to mean that Madge was expecting a watery grave as well and increased their howls; baby Ailie started to wail too. Such was the noise, that a fellow passenger called for the ship's doctor. He was a pleasant young man, about the same age as Jack Maynard. At the sight of a stranger, the owner of the Chalet School started to calm down and so did Josette and Margot. "Madam? I am Dr Levine, ships' doctor. A passenger alerted me to a possible disturbance here. Is everything allright? Maybe I be of some assistance?" Dr Levine looked so worried Madge started to laugh. "It's just something my silly husband said. He was telling our daughter and niece about the Titanic and the poor lambs got so distressed. I didn't help matters, I threw him out and I've got the most dreadful headache. I'm sorry to worry you Dr Levine." "And no doubt the stress upset your little one?" Dr Levine picked up Ailie who started to gurgle at him. "She's a bonny lass! Quite like..." His face was briefly creased in pain as he put Ailie down. "Never mind! When you say you threw your husband out, I trust it wasn't overboard?" Dr Levine's smile caused Madge, Josette and Margot to laugh. "I did briefly entertain that notion, doctor!" Madge giggled like a girl. "I think I had better reassure your young maidens! A lot of safety rules have come in since 1912 when the Titanic sank. We make ships' hulls in a different way, we have more lifeboats and lots of emergency plans. Would you and your mother like a tour of the ship to see how well we look after you?" Dr Levine's invitation was eagerly accepted! Madge and the girls even had afternoon tea with the Captain. It was evening before they returned to the cabin. Inside was a very sombre Jem, who had been hiding in the bar until his wife calmed down. "Madge dearest, I am so very sorry!" "You! Jem Russell I was thinking of making you walk the plank! However, you have one last chance! Apologise to Josette and Margot." Jem made his fulsome apologies to the little ladies. Josette gave him a look that was uncommonly like her Russell grandmother if she had known her and Jem shrank! Eventually Daddy / Uncle Jem was forgiven and he was very subdued for the remainder of the day; although at dinner he asked, "Madge, where have you been all day?" "With the doctor. A lovely young man! Reminds me of you in your youth." Jem was speechless.

Author:	Lesley [ Thu Dec 27, 2007 7:57 pm ]
Post subject:
Serves Jem right! Thanks Phil.

Author:	macyrose [ Fri Dec 28, 2007 12:15 am ]
Post subject:
Quote: Dr Levine picked up Ailie who started to gurgle at him. "She's a bonny lass! Quite like..." His face was briefly creased in pain as he put Ailie down. I wonder who Ailie reminds him of? Is there a mystery here? Thanks Phil.

Author:	Fatima [ Fri Dec 28, 2007 6:48 am ]
Post subject:
Yes, I wondered that, too. Hooray for dashing young doctors! Thanks Phil.

Author:	leahbelle [ Sat Dec 29, 2007 5:00 pm ]
Post subject:
What a silly thing for Jem to bring up! Dr Levine seems nice. I'm also wondering if there's a story line there!

Author:	Phil [ Sun Jan 06, 2008 2:27 am ]
Post subject:
It had not escaped Sir James' notice that young Dr Levine was taking an interest in Lady Russell. So, with all the territorial instinct of a male in a pride of lions, he bristled as Madge danced with the doctor on the dance floor at the evening's ball for officers and first class passengers. "I am your husband" growled Jem under his breath as Madge waltzed over to the far edge of the dance floor. Jem gave a childish smirk as Dr Levine was called away. "Madge! You really should have...oh dear what's wrong?" "I think I just twisted my ankle whilst dancing!" "Oh Madge! And you such a talent as well! Wait till Joey hears about this!" "Jem! Don't be so mean!" "That Doctor's very friendly; plays tennis with us on deck, helps Rosa with the children, comes jogging with us round the deck." "Jem! He's lonely! He told me so. He's probably dying to talk medicine with you, but I should think he's too afraid, you've been looking like an angry rhinoceros whenever he sees you." Jem did not appreciate being likened to an angry rhinoceros, an epithet David had coined for Sybil in a bad mood. "Well, dammit Madge! We hardly have any time for each other!" Madge looked shocked. "Jem, you're not jealous are you?" Jem was silent. "Oh Jem!" "Jem. I love you." "And I love you." "Promise?" "Yes." Madge and Jem relaxed into a giggle and a glass of wine. Dr Levine returned but was collared by the Purser who introduced him to a vinegar faced old lady and a leathery old man. There was a sudden commotion as little Josette ran in, dressed in her nightie, dressing gown and slippers. "Daddy! Mummy!" The little girl was breathless. "Margot" (pant, pant, pant) "Overboard" "WHAT?" shrieked Madge, who promptly fainted. "Oh no Mummy! I meant Margot has dropped her teddy overboard, the one she had since she was a baby! She's terribly upset! Oh Mummy please don't die!" Josette broke down into tears. Jem was grateful for Dr Levine's speedy assistance and the young man carried Madge back to the Russell's cabin whilst Jem scooped up his distraught daughter and carried her away to bed. Josette and Margot had ceased their sobbing and appeared before a now fully conscious Madge. Both girls were very subdued! They had given Rosa the slip and wanted to explore the ship but Margot had lost her grip of the little teddy bear in Chalet School uniform, knitted by Mlle Lachennais, part of a matching set for each of the triplets; which had sunk beneath the waves. Margot had been devastated. It meant whilst Len and Con would have their little teddy bears, she would not. It seemed to finalise her separation from her family. Both girls were scolded for their deceiving Rosa and were made to apologise to her. They also had to apologise to Madge and Jem for the alarm they had caused to them and finally, they had to apologise to Dr Levine, who represented the ship's crew. Did the girls realise how dangerous it was to be running around a ship unsupervised? If they were reported missing, they might have to assume the worst and believe they had gone overboard? Josette was struck dumb by the consequences of her behaviour. Never before had Daddy and Mummy and Rosa looked so cross! Even the nice Dr Levine looked angry. Margot however, seemed to have a slight smirk on her face. A steel glare from Madge soon dealt with that! With the girls confined to bed, Dr Levine decided to take his leave. He shook hands with Jem and was about to go when he suddenly saw a photograph of Madge holding baby Ailie. Jem and Madge had another shock when the young man suddenly burst into tears. "Dr Levine? What's the matter? Come and sit down. Doctor?" Jem poured the young man a drink. "Forgive me Sir James, Lady Russell. Just seeing that photograph. Sir James, your baby daughter is the image of my little girl, God rest her soul. My wife was very like you Lady Russell. Then...with the danger your elder girls were in, running around the deck unnoticed, late at night. I...just...couldn't help but think of my own wife and child." "Come on old fellow! Buck up!" "What happened to your wife and child?" "The war. A U-Boat in the Atlantic. It was just a passenger ship, they were crossing home from America." Jem and Madge were admirable in helping the young man's grief stricken soul. "I've tried everything, I served in the navy, I've prayed to God, I've tried to find another woman. I'm leaving the company after this voyage. I plan to settle in Canada. I don't quite know what the job prospects are for a doctor." There was a pause. Madge looked at Jem. They were thinking the same thing. "Don't you worry. I shall be working in Canada myself, I have considerable influence in the UK and they are very keen to have me here, I'm sure I can make representations on your behalf." Jem spoke with an avuncular kindness. "Oh Sir James! I'm so grateful. More grateful than I could ever express." "Don't you worry! I'm always here and I'll let you have our address in Canada so you can stay in contact. Are you staying with anyone?" "My Great Aunt in Toronto." "Then we shan't be very far away! Goodnight Dr Levine." "Goodnight Sir James and thank you Lady Russell." "Goodnight. Oh Jem, that poor man!" "Yes. Poor devil. I'll do my best for him." "Well, I don't think we will have any more wickedness from Josette. Margot however, is a different kettle of fish!" Jem nodded his agreement.

Author:	Fiona Mc [ Sun Jan 06, 2008 2:37 am ]
Post subject:
Thanks Phil, hope Jem and Madge will be able to help Dr Levine

Author:	Fatima [ Sun Jan 06, 2008 3:47 pm ]
Post subject:
Yes, they weren't at all sympathetic about the teddy, especially considering all it symbolised to Margot.

Author:	PaulineS [ Sun Jan 06, 2008 4:23 pm ]
Post subject:
I do not thing they understand Margot at all. It was only in the early fifties that the work on separation of children and parents showed the effects. I remember doing a presentation on childhood separation due to hospitalization and a doctor who was one of the interview team said he had been separeted from his parents during the war due to illness and he found it difficult to trust people in adulthood. We forget that children were evacuated without their parents in large numbers during the war and boarding prep schools for children from the age of seven were common, the children only seeing their family during the holidays. Madge had cared for her brother's children from babyhood when they had limited knowledge of their parents and does not realise that Margot's situation is different as she has a relationship with parents and sibblings which she is old enough to miss. The teddy bear as a comforter is also something we regonise today, but I do not remember it being resognised in my childhood which was the fifites and this would be the lete forties/early fifities. Margot's behavoiur in her teens has its rootes in her experiences as a nine/ten year old more then EBD allowed.

Author:	leahbelle [ Mon Jan 07, 2008 6:08 pm ]
Post subject:
Poor Margot. I know how she feels! I remember losing a teddy when I was tiny and it was a traumatic experience!

Author:	Phil [ Tue Jan 08, 2008 10:09 pm ]
Post subject:
"Land Ho! Land Ho! Land Ho Auntie Madge!" Canada was in sight and Margot was a whirlwind of excitement. She lost her balance and collapsed in a fit of coughing. Josette rolled her eyes and kept a tight grip of Ailie. Madge laughed and picked the spluttering Margot up, setting her on her feet. "Careful you young monkey! You are just like your Mama; always running around and making herself ill!" Madge thought back to just before she had begun the great Chalet School Odyssey. She had announced her intention to start a school to Dick and he had called for Joey who had come tearing into the room and ending up provoking one of her horrific coughs. The fresh air of Tirol had given life to the frail Joey. Madge prayed the same would be done for Margot in Canada. The girls were kept busy with their packing. After a final meal and saying goodbye to Dr Levine, the Russells and Margot set foot on Canadian soil! The docks were certainly similar to Southampton: the same smells, the same noise, the same hustle and bustle and shouts of the workers as they heaved luggage, chains and ropes all over the place. Josette felt a pang of sorrow as she left "her" ship. The 'King Alfred the Great' was already being loaded and refuelled for a return voyage to Southampton. Margot wandered around staring up at the great ship with its' massive funnels and superstructure pressing against the skyline. She did not notice a girl of about six accidentally run into her. Margot was most offended and on her dignity at once. She was anxious to move on and irritable at the long process of disembarking from the ship. Why couldn't things hurry up? She barked at the child to "Watch where you're going or else!" At this fierce rebuke from a bigger girl, the little one started to cry. Margot felt some satisfaction that her authority had been reinforced, but she was soon frightened by the lumbering giant of a woman who strode towards her. "HOW DARE YOU SHOUT AT MY DAUGHTER LIKE THAT! YOU PICK ON SOMEONE YOUR OWN SIZE! WHERE ARE YOUR PARENTS? I AM GOING TO DEMAND YOUR FATHER GIVES YOU A GOOD SMACKING!" Margot, although terrified, had a very high opinion of herself, which all her parents' pampering had sadly reinforced and since Mama and Papa weren't actually there to scold her, she felt she could stand up to this ogre. "Well she should have been looking where she was going! Young kids today!" Margot's pert expression seemed to enrage the mother further. "Where are your parents?" she hissed in a cold voice. Fortunately for Margot, Josette had seen this little fracas and was appalled at her cousin's behaviour. She rushed to intervene. "Please Miss! I'm terribly sorry if my cousin upset you and your daughter, she's here with my parents. I know she didn't mean to be so rude!" Josette looked quite scared herself and the pleading look in her eyes melted the angry lady's heart. Josette managed a little smile at the young girl, who broke into a giggle. "Very well. I just hope she learns some manners that's all. Enjoy your stay in Canada." The gruff lady strode away, the little girl waving at Josette who breathed a massive sigh of relief. Margot was still impertinent and was rude to Josette, saying she had the situation well in hand. Josette turned on Margot with a sudden fury and assertiveness the like of which nobody had seen before. "You little goop! If Uncle Jack and Auntie Joey knew how you were behaving you would be sent to bed for a week! Now behave yourself! You were quite wrong to shout at that kid and I am not having you be a silly ass and hurt Mummy and Daddy as a result!" Startled at her cousin's strictures, Margot fled and was very subdued as she tried to hide behind Rosa from a glaring Josette. Sadly this was not to be the only occasion when Josette would have to bail young Margot out of trouble! Josette for her part, now knew how David used to feel when he was squashing Sybil as he did so many times, before that dreadful accident. The rest of the day in Canada was not a great start to that wonderful country. A doctor had been sent to meet Jem and his family and take them to their new home. The doctor was indeed a very pleasant man, but could he talk or could he talk! On any subject, he would give a lengthy narrative and left no room for questions! Jem and Madge tried to look interested, but their eyes kept glazing over and they had to pinch one another to stay awake. The doctor's attempts to talk to the girls about the grizzly bear as part of Canadian wildlife would no doubt have interested Rix or David, but it only frightened Josette and Margot. When at last he took his leave the Russells flopped onto chairs and Margot created a sensation by saying, "Uncle Jem, I feel much better now. Please can you take me home to Mama?"

Author:	roversgirl [ Tue Jan 08, 2008 10:21 pm ]
Post subject:	re.
oh dear...i can see how many problems they are going to have with margot! thanks very much for this

Author:	Fiona Mc [ Wed Jan 09, 2008 6:27 am ]
Post subject:
Poor Josette being lumbered into that role but shielding Margot will do her no good. Thanks Phil

Author:	Lesley [ Wed Jan 09, 2008 7:46 am ]
Post subject:
Love Margot's response! Glad that Josette isn't as meek as she'd initially seemed. Thanks Phil.

Author:	leahbelle [ Wed Jan 09, 2008 6:14 pm ]
Post subject:
There's going to be trouble ahead!

Author:	Phil [ Thu Jan 10, 2008 11:37 pm ]
Post subject:
The Russells and Margot had done some tentative exploring of Toronto. Jem had to sort out his job naturally and Madge had to arrange the house and schooling for Josette and Margot. Josette was eager to embrace a new school in a new land. It struck her that she would be the only girl in her family to go to another school besides the Chalet School; she would be making history! Margot preferred the security of the Chalet School. "Please Auntie Madge, can't you set up another Chalet School branch here?" or "Can't I be taught at home? I am delicate." Madge and Jem were adamant in saying "No" to Margot and this would be reinforced by Josette, who became adept at squashing Margot in a very short space of time. Margot was quite unused to being told "No". it was not a word she liked to hear. It was decided to send Margot and Josette to a local convent school. It felt strange to be pulling on a different uniform rather than the traditional Chalet School colours. Margot was quite tempted to throw her new uniform down the stairs, but she had started to realise that such behaviour would not be tolerated in the Russell household! When Margot and Josette were ushered through the gates into their new school and assembled in the hall with all the new girls, Josette had a big smile on her face. This was so new and fascinating. Her warm open smile attracted other girls of her age to her and they struck up a conversation at once. Josette tried to involve her cousin in the conversation, but Margot remained silent. If the truth be told, Margot was terrified. She had been brought up to believe her mother was the Chalet School and that it was her own hereditary birthright to attend the Chalet School. Margot believed she was more than special since she was a triplet and the joint eldest of the Queen of the Chalet School. Now she was in exile! She was very traditional in her opinions, whereas her cousin was apparently eager for change and new adventure. She was shocked when a teacher came to collect Josette and her new friends to come to a class. Margot shot Josette an agonising look which said, "Stay with me!" Alas, Josette did not see; she was busy talking to her new friends. Presently, another teacher came to collect Margot and the other girls to take them to their form room. Poor Margot did not have a good first day. When the teacher went round the class to ask the new girls to introduce themselves, Margot's English accent aroused plenty of interest, not all of it pleasant. Margot was embarrassed. When asked about her last school, her nerves caused her to wax lyrical about the Chalet School and say how good it was. She was totally crushed by a question from one girl, "Say, if it was so good, why did you leave? Were you expelled or something; or were you too good for it?" Poor Margot was sobbing her heart out and was bitterly homesick and the girls were all deeply ashamed of themselves for picking on her. She spent the rest of the day with a kind, shrewd nun who had a good understanding of girls: Sister Catherine. Sister Catherine had been told of Margot's distress and cuddled the unhappy child. She sent for two girls, slightly older than Margot but both very responsible: Amelie and Jeanne. These two were to become great friends of Margot and later on of Len and Con. "Amelie, Jeanne! This is Margot Maynard, she has come all the way from England to live here because she is not well. She is very homesick. She is a triplet and misses her sisters and parents and her old school, which is a family business. She is feeling lonely and miserable and I need you to cheer her up." "Oh yes, Sister Catherine!" "We shall do it Sister Catherine!" The two girls were keen to know about England, which they had never visited and they told Margot a great deal about Canada. Margot wondered that these girls were really only a year older than her! They seemed so grown up, almost like Peggy or Daisy. They were friendly and interested, but didn't get too excited. They were attentive and kind, and could take a bit of teasing. Sister Catherine watched from a window and smiled. Josette had heard at break time how a "new English kid" had run from her classroom in tears. Genuinely frightened for Margot and feeling very protective of her cousin, Josette rushed to her side and gave her a hug. "Oh Margot! I heard you were upset! Are you allright? Do you want to come with me?" "Josette, it was so...I'm OK now. Er...This is Amelie and this is Jeanne, Sister Catherine helped me and..." Josette's friend interrupted here. "You SAW Sister Catherine? Wow! We hardly ever get to see Sister Catherine, and she like owns the place! You are a lucky bird!" Margot's ego was rapidly recovering, but fortunately she was still cautious. "Well, she just sort of, well, I was so upset I ran into her really. I didn't mean to!" Margot was soon becoming the centre of attention and by the time Lady Russell collected her daughter and her niece, Margot was a convert to the convent!

Author:	Alison H [ Thu Jan 10, 2008 11:44 pm ]
Post subject:
Things seem to be going much better now. I'm with Josette - I think I'd've been glad to get a break from the Chalet School with everyone thinking of you as "Madame"'s daughter/Joey's niece!