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Letters (new letter 04/08/08, p25. Part two, see new thread)
http://www.the-cbb.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=14&t=4404

Author:  Emma A [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 1:15 pm ]
Post subject:  Letters (new letter 04/08/08, p25. Part two, see new thread)

Hope I've posted this in the correct forum. The bunny bit last night, so here it is - a what if?

Oxford
23rd April 196-

My dear,

This has been the hardest letter I’ve ever had to write. I’ve tried four versions already but torn them up because, when I read them again, they did not say what I wanted them to say. I think it will be a hard letter to read, too, and I am truly sorry to hurt you. But I have to write to you, it would not be fair otherwise.

I can’t marry you. It wouldn’t be right - nor fair to either of us.

There, I’ve written it.

I don’t want you to offer to wait for me, hoping that I will change my mind, because I won’t. Please try to understand that it’s nothing to do with how you are or what you’ve done – I’m still very fond of you. And perhaps if I hadn’t met Isaac, I would have come home from Oxford and married you and perhaps have been happy. But not now.

You’ll have gathered from my previous letters that I met Isaac in my first year. Perhaps I knew then that there was something about him that would cut up my peace and make me question all my assumptions, because I don’t think I was honest with you in all those other letters. He wasn’t just another friend, though we treated each other that way for months. I was still trying to hold onto my idea of you, and succeeding, I thought, quite well. I wonder if you noticed anything different in my manner when I was at home during the long vacations, because I tried not to show anything.

And oh, how you all assumed then that I was the same as ever, that I had not changed: that I would find events on the Platz of overwhelming importance and interest. I visited the school, it’s true, but to talk with Auntie Hilda about university, and teaching, and my future. She won’t be surprised to hear my news.

Last term and this have been very hard. Mamma has written so frequently, even telephoning on a few occasions, despite my protests, about the wedding. And I know I said I would be happy to marry you at Christmas, but I can’t. (I haven’t even begun to write to the family yet, but I will – you won’t have to tell them.) The arrangements, the guests, the dress – every detail was weighing on me more and more, until I felt suffocated and fighting for escape. I don’t mind admitting that, a few times, I asked Pen to say that I was out when Mamma telephoned.

I tried to reason it out, as though it was a problem for the application of logic. I came to the conclusion that it wasn’t really the thought of marrying you that was so terrifying: it was the knowledge that, by marrying you, I would lose Isaac. And I simply could not bear that.

I don’t want you to think that I’ve been seduced. Far from it. We’ve both struggled against it, and it’s only now, after almost three years of knowing each other, that we’ve been finally able to admit how we felt. I’ve prayed, lit candles, said rosaries, decade after decade – almost berated God and the Madonna for making me so untrue, so faithless. And for someone not even of my faith! At least he believes in God – I couldn’t possibly feel so much for someone who did not.

We won’t be able to marry for some time, not until he’s at the Bar and earning a decent living. I’ll teach, as I planned, all those years ago, but I don’t expect I’ll ever return to the Chalet School, not even Glendower House.

In retrospect, school seems a small and limited place, now that I’ve had my eyes opened to a wider world. It is as though my cage has been opened (though it was very safe, and pleasant captivity), and I am venturing out on my, first, faltering, steps into a brave new world. The road may be hard, and I may stumble, but with Isaac and God together, I know we will find a way.

I will be your friend, if you can accept that, but I can’t give you my heart – that’s now been given elsewhere, and will never be returned.

I am so sorry, Reg. Please forgive me.

Helena

Author:  Karry [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 1:32 pm ]
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The letter everyone (well, nearly) wanted Len to write! Thank you!

Author:  Mona [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 1:36 pm ]
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Thank you Emma. That was beautiful and sad.

Author:  Jennie [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 1:57 pm ]
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Beautiful, Emma. Thank you.

Author:  Alison H [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 2:18 pm ]
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Thanks Emma, that was lovely - I always felt that Len was pressurised into getting engaged to Reg.

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 2:59 pm ]
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Beautifully thought out and written, Emma - thank you.

Author:  Elbee [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 4:11 pm ]
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What a difficult letter to write. Sad but probably the right thing for Len to do.

Thanks Emma.

Author:  Lesley [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 4:47 pm ]
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Thank you Emma - glad Len had the courage to say that rather than feel she had to go through with the marriage.



May we see her letter to her parents - and their response?

Author:  Katherine [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 5:06 pm ]
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Very well put.

Lesley wrote:
May we see her letter to her parents - and their response?

No, the letter back from Reg!

Author:  abbeybufo [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 5:12 pm ]
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Katherine wrote:
Very well put.

Lesley wrote:
May we see her letter to her parents - and their response?

No, the letter back from Reg!


Or even better, both!!

[pleeeeeeeease]

Lovely Emma - thanks

Author:  Emma A [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 5:41 pm ]
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Thanks very much for the replies, everyone: much appreciated. I've got Len's letter to her parents in mind now, so I might write that up in the next few days. I'm not actually sure how Reg might reply - angrily, perhaps, at first. Anyway, I'll let the plot bunny mull over that one...

Author:  LauraMcC [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 6:08 pm ]
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Poor Reg. :( Still, I think that Len did the right thing, and she will probably be a lot happier with Isaac than stuck on the Platz with Reg. I too would love to see Len's letter to her pareets. Knowing Joey, she will doubtlessly try to force Len to marry Reg, and then be all upset when Len defies her! :lol:

Author:  Liz K [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 6:41 pm ]
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abbeybufo wrote:
Katherine wrote:
Very well put.

Lesley wrote:
May we see her letter to her parents - and their response?

No, the letter back from Reg!


Or even better, both!!

[pleeeeeeeease]

Lovely Emma - thanks


Please, Emma, please.

Thank you.

Author:  macyrose [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 7:19 pm ]
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I really enjoyed Len's letter. Please do write the other two!

Author:  Pat [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 7:52 pm ]
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That was lovely, and almost inevitable. Once away from the Platz she was bound to change in all sorts of ways.

Author:  Lisa [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 7:56 pm ]
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A very realistic letter - heartfelt but also reflecting Len's newfound maturity. Thank you :)

Author:  Emma A [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 9:03 pm ]
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Well, prompted by Lesley, here's Len's letter to her parents

Oxford
24th April 196-

Dearest Mamma and Papa,

I have some news which will be a shock to you, but please don’t be angry with me. I really appreciate the effort and work which you’ve expended on organising my wedding, but I’m afraid that I can’t marry Reg. I’ve written to him to tell him so, and I hope in time he may forgive me, as I hope you, too, will do.

I’ve been aware for a long time, since my first shock upon arriving at Oxford, that – perhaps apart from that year in Canada – life at school and on the Platz was restrictive. I never knew, at school, to what extent. I was happy, in the bosom of the family, busy, fulfilled, and sure of myself. Now... well, I’d have to say that everything is different. I don’t feel sure of anything, and while I find that a little frightening at times, it also exhilarates me. I’ve learned so much about myself, I feel as if I’ve grown, somehow, to accommodate all these new feelings and so much new knowledge.

I can’t be content any more with the life I had planned for myself: teaching, returning to the Chalet School: then all that being overturned by Reg’s proposal. You asked me, Mamma, if I was really sure about my feelings for him – and I was, at the time. I was really in love with him, and happy to think that we would be married. Looking back, and with no wish to blame anyone, I think I was far too young to make such a commitment. If it was a vocation, like Margot’s, I think you might have tried to persuade me that eighteen was too young, but marriage is just as much a vocation as God’s call to service, and I did not know my own mind.

All I’ve seen and learned since coming to Oxford, and meeting so many different people of all types and backgrounds, has made me a very different person from the one who decided, three years ago, that she would be very happy to be Mrs Entwhistle.

I hope I would have had the courage to tell Reg this even if there were no extenuating circumstances. But I have realised that affection and friendship, though admirable, are no substitute for real love: and I could not possibly destroy both our lives by keeping my promise when I was fathoms deep in love with someone else.

I’ve written before about Isaac Mendel, but never confessed to you how I felt about him. I think this was mainly because I felt so guilty: how could I feel so strongly about someone not Reg? And I knew, too, that he being Jewish would not have made him wholly acceptable to you (as indeed I, being a Gentile, am to his parents). We have both tried not to hurt others, and perhaps we are being selfish in doing what will give us most happiness and freedom. We have discussed our differing faiths, and learned to agree on the points of similarity: in fact, his not being a Catholic, or even a Christian, has made me question my faith in a way that we were never taught at school. Though the questioning has made my faith in God stronger, I can’t truly say the Creed now, and believe it all.

I will teach, because I feel a calling to do that. It’s something that I do well, and I feel I must use this odd gift. Later this year, Isaac will start his pupillage at chambers in London – he hopes to be called to the Bar. We’ve not made promises to each other, though we’re sure that being together is what we both want – just not now. I don’t feel that I will ever want to return to the Platz – or even to the Chalet School. I want to make a difference; to teach those whose lives make it difficult for them to learn; to try to convey the beauty of language to children who may never visit Austria, or France, and who may never leave England. In short, to use my skills and talents where they will do most good.

I’d like to bring Isaac with me when I return home after graduation, for you to meet and understand each other. It would only be for a couple of weeks, for I have arranged – with Auntie Hilda’s help – some work as a teaching assistant in London, before I begin study for my diploma. Of course, if you feel that it would be too soon, and insensitive, then of course we shan’t come.

I am so sorry if I’ve let you down, or disappointed you, or if I’ve made you unhappy – I never meant this to happen. I didn’t want it to happen. But I can’t do anything else.

From your loving daughter,
Helena

Author:  Karry [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 9:20 pm ]
Post subject: 

Emma, this is brill! I think you are starting a superb drabble! Can we see the responses and also the letters Isaac will write to his family?

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 9:23 pm ]
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Another truly wonderful letter, Emma, and clear evidence of the way Len always did reason things out for herself - which is why, I think, so many of us feel she was more than somewhat pressured into becoming engaged to Reg in the first place. I hope Jack and Joey will be able to accept both her reasoning, and her choice of Isaac.

Thank you.

Author:  Lesley [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 9:44 pm ]
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A wonderful letter, Emma - and thank you for responding! :wink: Len truly has thought very deeply about her future life and has made a hard decision for all the right reasons. The fact that Isaac is not Christian will place more pressure on her. i do wonder how Jack and Joey will respond - their acceptance of different faiths has not, to my knowledge, been tested when it is someone other that Christian. We know that they can feel empathy but can they really understand?


Very interesting Emma and just crying out for more information. :wink:

Author:  Fiona Mc [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 9:46 pm ]
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Thanks. These letter would be so hard for Len to write but well done for her for for being so honest and not just going with the flow

Author:  Clare [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 10:28 pm ]
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Oh wow.. I can just imagine Joey exploding upon reading that letter; Reg storming into Jack's office with his letter and Jack trying to be the voice of reason. So glad Len has Hilda's support (though I think she is in for an ear-bashing off Joey too).

Thank you Emma, looking forward to more!

Author:  abbeybufo [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 10:38 pm ]
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Thanks Emma that was very moving - Reg's and Joey & Jack's responses would be fascinating to read, too, if you can find the opportunity to write them for us . . .

Pretty please :wink:

Author:  Alison H [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 10:40 pm ]
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Emma, this is fascinating - hope there's more to come.

Author:  Tara [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 11:47 pm ]
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This is so interesting. I'm another one who hated the thought of Len marrying Reg, and I'm sure she would have changed so much after leaving school. Glad Hilda is supporting her.

Author:  Cath V-P [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 1:19 am ]
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These are both fascinating letters Emma, and the Len who wrote them has examined her motivations so clearly and maturely - not an easy thing to do at any age. She so wants to do the right thing, even if it might be painful in the short term.

Thank you.

Author:  Mona [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 8:04 am ]
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Emma, thank you. These are both so well expressed, and utterly in character for Len.
It would be great to see some replies. I hope the inspiration strikes!

Author:  Karoline [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 9:10 am ]
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Thanks Emma

Author:  Jennie [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 9:29 am ]
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There's a awful lot in these, Emma. I hope you will be able to carry on with them as there's such a wide range of possibilities.

Author:  Becky [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 11:04 am ]
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Thanks, Emma, really enjoyed reading both letters and hope there will be more soon.

Author:  Elle [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 11:28 am ]
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abbeybufo wrote:
Thanks Emma that was very moving - Reg's and Joey & Jack's responses would be fascinating to read, too, if you can find the opportunity to write them for us . . .

Pretty please :wink:


I agree!

Thanks Emma, this is really good.

Author:  Emma A [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 12:50 pm ]
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Dr Reg Entwhistle to Miss Helena Maynard

Gornetz Platz
1st May 196-

Darling Len,

It took me several efforts before I could finally read through all your letter. I have put off answering it until I could be reasonably sure of controlling my emotions, at least on paper. So I apologise if you’ve been waiting days for this letter and my response to your bombshell: because that’s all I can call it.

I had no inkling that you were feeling this way. And I’m sorry if you felt pressured: I never meant to force you into anything.

I’m tempted to say that we could put the wedding off, until you felt more certain, but then I read your letter again, and I can see that almost nothing I can say or write to you will change your mind.

I admit that I was afraid this would happen. I suppose it was almost inevitable that you would fall for someone else during your years away, but I always hoped that it would not be serious, that I would be the man you came back to, that eventually you would come to me as happily and as freely as I would come to you. I think you know how much you mean to me, and perhaps you have an inkling of how much it will hurt me to lose you. Right now, I don’t feel as though I will ever stop loving you. However, it’s clear from your letter that you don’t feel the same way. I want to howl and rage, and curl up in the woods and never speak to anyone again, but life has to go on, and patients still need care.

To be honest I don’t care who you’ve fallen in love with. He isn’t me, and therefore I hate him. Gentile or Jew, o you who look to windward, consider Phlebas, who was once handsome and tall as you. I don’t mean that you should find me floating in the water, “a fortnight dead” – it just came into my mind. I apologise for the digression.

Anyway, this is harder than I anticipated, so I’ll merely write that I accept your reasons, and release you from our engagement. I don’t know whether I can be your friend, so I would appreciate it if you didn’t write again. I have some leave due, so please let your mother know when you plan to return to the Platz, and I’ll arrange to take my leave then. I don’t want to run the risk of seeing you again so soon after this – I’ll need much more time.

I wish you good luck with Finals, and God bless you, darling.

Yours,
Reg

Author:  Alison H [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 12:55 pm ]
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I feel really sorry for Reg now :( : I thought he might rant and rave and say that no way was he just being dumped like that, but he's been really sweet.

Thanks Emma - hope Jack and Joey aren't too hard on Len.

Author:  Chris [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 1:09 pm ]
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I've really enjoyed these letters - poor Reg! A bolt out of the blue for him, and he has dealt with it very well I feel.

Must say, am looking forward to more correspondence!

Author:  Mona [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 1:46 pm ]
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Poor Reg. In that response I can see a man who I can understand Len falling in love with, which is more than EBD ever did.
Thanks!

Author:  Caroline [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 2:19 pm ]
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Lovely, Emma - that shows a really decent side to Reg, inspite of his disappointment. Here's hoping Joey and Jack can do the decent thing as well...

:D

Author:  abbeybufo [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 2:19 pm ]
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Oh :shock:
I feel really sorry for Reg now . . . 'cos he seems nicer and more adult than the person I thought Len was wrriting to in the first letter you gave us [if that isn't too convoluted a sentence :roll: ]

Thanks Emma - what will Joey say, I wonder?

Author:  Jennie [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 2:38 pm ]
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Hm, a nice, understanding Reg. Oh well, I think I'll have to start feeling sorry for him now.

Author:  Elbee [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 5:23 pm ]
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Poor Reg :( . He was really understanding.

Thanks Emma.

Author:  Emma A [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 5:48 pm ]
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I'm not sure that Reg really does understand, but I took the view that he really does love Len, and knows when she means the things she says.

Miss Felicity Maynard to Miss Helena Maynard


Freudesheim
Gornetz Platz
28th April 196-

Dear Helena,

Good for you! I never felt Reg was right for you. Of course I like him, he’s a solid chap, but not the sort of man I ever felt really deserved you. Tell me about Isaac, please – is he nice? What does he look like?

Mamma and Papa were shocked by your letter, as you would expect. Papa has gone round in a sort of daze, and we keep hearing mutterings of “How’s Reg going to react?” and “Who on earth is this Isaac Mendel?” and “Why did he have to be Jewish?”. I think these are rhetorical questions (perhaps I’ll ask Auntie Hilda). Mamma, I’m sorry to say, has not taken the news well. She was so looking forward to your wedding, and getting a new outfit, and having the whole school along (I hope you knew about that), and, I think, having you back on the Platz. She misses you and the other triplets, and was looking forward to having you return and settle down here. I think she had resigned herself to losing Margot, and probably Con, too – oh, and we’re so proud of her winning that prize, and I’ll write to tell her so – but not you.

To tell the truth, we (me, and Cecil and Phil) were looking forward to your return, too. But I think it’s much more interesting, what you’ve decided. I wish sometimes that my ballet had been good enough to let me audition for the Royal Ballet, or even a Swiss company. When you were at school, did you ever want to run for miles and miles and see different mountains and rivers and new people? Going to Tyrol for holidays isn’t enough – I want more.

Sorry, I seem to have rather wandered off the track! This letter was meant to be about you, not me.

I don’t think either of the parents are ANGRY, as such. Certainly neither of them have been breathing metaphorical fire and planning to forbid you the house. But they are worried about you, and disappointed too, I think, because they like Reg, and have known him for such a long time. They don’t know anything about Isaac – or at least, only know about him what you’ve told them, and that’s not the same, is it? Papa is more concerned about the religion divide – he would have accepted a Protestant as your husband (after all, he married one), but he’s worried that you’ll find more to divide you both than to bring you together. I think that’s what his mutterings mean, anyway.

Mamma has also “had words” with Auntie Hilda: you can imagine who came off better in that encounter (and before you accuse me of eavesdropping, it was on the telephone and I could hear every word and Mamma knew jolly well I was there). It seems that you confided in her (Auntie Hilda, I mean) and Mamma felt awfully hurt that you’d felt you couldn’t confide in her (I mean Mamma – isn’t it dreadfully difficult with pronouns to distinguish one from the other?).

I don’t know if either of the parents have written to you yet, but Cecil and I approve (so that should make you feel better, yes?). Just make sure you tell us all about him – Isaac, that is. Does Con know him? Have you told Margot?

School is going on in much the usual way with preparations for the Sale taking a good deal of time. I’m working well in form, too – I was sixth last week! I don’t think I’ve been higher this year, so I’m very pleased with myself. Phil is also doing well in class, though she’s so far behind the other girls of her age. I don’t think that the hot weather is doing her much good at present. I don’t know if Phil understands exactly what has happened, but she seems to be her usual self, otherwise.

Anyway, I hope this reaches you in time for your exams, and I wish you the best of luck (though I don’t suppose you’ll really need it).

Lots of love,
Felicity

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 6:06 pm ]
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That is a lovely letter from Felicity - and how thoughtful of her to pre-warn Len of how their parents are reacting to the news before she hears from them directly. Sounds a little bit as if she has been assuming some of Len's former role towards the younger siblings, too. Reg's reaction also shows maturity even if he doesn't completely understand why this has happened (sorry, saw both these together so am commenting together!) - a younger Reg would probably have been foaming at the mouth with anger at the news.

Thanks, Emma

Author:  abbeybufo [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 6:07 pm ]
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An unexpected bonus, Emma


Thanks for that background - I like Felicity :D

Author:  MaryR [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 7:20 pm ]
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Lovely letters, Emma.

And they do say that Catholics and Jews understand each other, so here's to Len and Isaac. :lol:

Author:  Alison H [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 9:38 pm ]
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Glad that Felicity's warned Len (and that Con's won a prize :D ), and very glad that Hilda put Joey in her place! Joey and Jack are bound to be shocked that Len has finished with her long-term fiancé and got together with someone they've never even met, but hope that they'll come round when they've got used to the idea.

Thanks Emma - this is wonderful.

Author:  crystaltips [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 9:38 pm ]
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Two lovely letters. Len/Helena is coming across a a very mature person who has finally found her way forward. I hope that her parents can accept her decisions.
I hope there's more to come, thanks Emma

Author:  Elle [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 9:41 pm ]
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I almost like your Reg! Thanks for the updates.

Author:  Lesley [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 10:15 pm ]
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Emma A wrote:
Mamma has also “had words” with Auntie Hilda: you can imagine who came off better in that encounter


Absolutely looooove that line! :lol:


Felicity sounds like a very sensible and sympathetic young woman - love her way of speaking to Len.


Thanks Emma

Author:  Jennie [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 9:24 am ]
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Thaks, Emma. Felicity sounds a lovely girl, and it's good to see that she cares a lot for Len.

Author:  Rosalin [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 10:53 am ]
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Lovely letters, thanks Emma. I really like your Helena and Felicity, and I'm glad that Reg reacted the way he did.

Author:  Fiona Mc [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 1:44 pm ]
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Reg was so lovely that I felt sorry for him, and l loved Felicity's letter. It was so nice of her

Author:  Emma A [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 1:49 pm ]
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I've just realised that Felicity is a couple of years younger than I've made her in this (she'd be about eleven, rather than thirteen or so) :oops: . The problem is that I needed a female correspondent in on the Platz who would write to Len in that sisterly style... I'll change it if anyone can suggest a more suitable writer.

Author:  Alison H [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 1:52 pm ]
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Hey, this is EBD-land where everyone ages at a different rate :wink: - just makes it all the more authentic.

Author:  JellySheep [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 2:47 pm ]
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This is great, lovely writing - as for alternative letter-writers, would Erica Standish be suitable? Presumably she will be around Freudesheim, though perhaps not have the same degree of understanding, not being a blood relative...

Author:  JayB [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 4:52 pm ]
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Just caught up with this, am really liking it.

I do think Reg has missed the point rather - Helena didn't break it off just because she's fallen for someone else, did she?

Looking forward to seeing the letters from Jo and Jack. Any chance of seeing Helena's letters to and from Nell? (Interesting that she turned to Hilda rather than her own godmother, but understandable in the curcumstances.)

Author:  Fatima [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 5:19 pm ]
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Those are great letters! Thanks Emma.

Author:  Mrs Redboots [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 5:53 pm ]
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These are great - I loved Reg in this and felt rather sorry for him; I think Joey, to be fair, would have minded about rather more than just her new dress and having the wedding.... but I think she is perhaps wise not to have written until she has calmed down, whatever! I liked the letter from Felicity, too; it was very supportive.

Author:  JustJen [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 9:28 pm ]
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Just caught up with this story Emma and it's wonderful.
PLease update soon.

Author:  Tara [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 11:33 pm ]
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Poor Reg and lovely Felicity (whatever age she 'should' be - nobody minds a bit of creative licence!).
Much enjoying this and looking forward to more.

Author:  dackel [ Sun Apr 27, 2008 12:54 pm ]
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I've really enjoyed these letters - thank you, Emma.

I always wondered whether Len would really marry Reg after three years of being away and getting to know other people. I think what you have written is very realistic.

Author:  Emma A [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 1:05 pm ]
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Mrs John Maynard to Miss Helena Maynard

Freudesheim
April 28th, 196-

Dear Len,

What on earth are you thinking? Have you even considered anyone but yourself in this? I am so disappointed in you. You seem not to have thought of how we would feel, nor how hurt and angry and wounded Reg would feel – and as for the inconvenience and downright trouble – well, words almost fail me. Have you done this just to hurt us? Turned down a man whom you’ve known for so long, and with whom you’re well-acquainted, and who loves you dearly: for someone whom we haven’t even met, and who isn’t even of your faith? If you had thought long and hard you could have done almost nothing worse.

Clearly the independence you think you have at university has gone to your head. The training we’ve given you, your father and I, forgotten, dismissed in mere self-indulgence. I can hardly express the bitter disappointment your letter has given us. How can you possibly know that you’re in love with this Isaac Mendel? You barely know him. And for this man you will throw away a good man, a man whom we love, a man whom, not so long ago, you loved – you say. Reg is a good prospect – he’s earning a decent salary at the San, more than sufficient for you to be able to marry at Christmas as you planned. What has this Mendel to offer you? Nothing for years, while you scrimp and save as a teacher until he deigns to marry you.

And if that was not sufficient, but that he’s Jewish – Len, how can you even contemplate marriage with him? If you really see marriage as a sacrament, as the Church teaches, please do think more clearly about what you plan to do. A sacrament is a holy and miraculous thing, and you should not take it lightly. And his family will react no more strongly, I expect: marrying out of the faith is no more encouraged by Jews than it is for Christians.

And as for “bringing” him to the Platz – whose hare-brained idea was that? You’ve barely given us any time to get used to the idea of you not marrying Reg, and you propose to come here, breaking his heart and flaunting his successor in his face. Really, Len, I expect behaviour like that of the Joan Bakers of this world, not our daughter. Of course he isn’t welcome this summer, particularly since this would only be a short visit, given your more important arrangements in England.

I take it very hard indeed, Len, that you saw fit to confide in Miss Annersley. You couldn’t even summon the courage to talk to your own mother before dropping your little bombshell. I’d have talked some sense into you, that’s for certain, not encouraged you in this upsetting and wilful manner. I’ve let Auntie Hilda know just how much I resent having been kept in the dark over this: why couldn’t you have let us know you were having second thoughts earlier? Instead you’ve let me go on organising details for your wedding and making us look foolish. What can I say to the girls at school who were looking forward to attending the wedding – and as for the efforts which Mr Denny was planning for the choir – well, the ingratitude and thoughtlessness takes my breath away.

I feel that Isaac is a bad influence on you, taking you away from everything you’ve been brought up to feel and think, and encouraging you in your selfishness. Do please reconsider your relationship with him – even if you feel you can’t marry Reg. Love will not solve all your problems.

I’m too upset to write more: perhaps I'll be able to write more calmly later.

With love from
Mother

Author:  Karry [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 1:15 pm ]
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Quote:
I’m too upset to write more: perhaps I'll be able to write more calmly later.

With love from
Mother
Goodness! What would the letter have been like if she wasn't so upset!
This is the sort of letter anyone would imajine coming from Mrs John Maynard! The significance of Mother is chilling!

Author:  Chris [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 1:17 pm ]
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Oh dear - how to ruin your relationship with your daughter in one easy lesson. Perhaps she should have waited until she was a bit calmer!

Author:  LizzieC [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 1:19 pm ]
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Thank you for this Emma. I'm enjoying reading these letters, and the one from Joey to Len is scarily in keeping with the character as she is portrayed in Prefects when she seems to push Len in to making the engagement to Reg in the first place.

Author:  crystaltips [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 1:28 pm ]
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A letter that took my breathe away - how can Jo accuse Len of thinking only of herself then go on about how Len's decision with affect Jo's plans. She has made no effort to understand Len's reasons. Hardly surprising that Len would confide in Hilda rather than her own mother!
I hope Len continues with Issaac - but I'm afraid that Jo may have ruined her relationship with Len for a very long time if not permanently.

Brilliant Emma, hope there's more to come (Len's reply to Jo?)

Author:  Alison H [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 1:59 pm ]
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Oh Joey, you should have waited until you'd calmed down before writing at all!

Author:  Mona [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 2:10 pm ]
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Oh Joey, how could you with your famed ability for getting into other people's skins, write to Len like that? Have you thought about anything but your own feelings?
Quote:
the one from Joey to Len is scarily in keeping with the character as she is portrayed in Prefects when she seems to push Len in to making the engagement to Reg in the first place.

It certainly is!

Author:  Jennie [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 2:20 pm ]
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And that's a letter from a loving mother to a beloved daughter? Come home, marry a man you don't love, and put me first.

Well!!!!!!!

Author:  Liz K [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 2:47 pm ]
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:shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock:

Can only echo some of the other responses to Joey's letter, I don't think I'd want to be going home for a while until Joey's calmed down (if she ever can!).

Author:  JB [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 3:01 pm ]
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Aargh, Joey. :evil: :evil: :evil:

Not a word about how this difficult this must have been for Len. So much more important to consider the feelings of the girls who were looking forward to going tot the wedding ......

And she wonders why Len confided in Hilda.

Author:  Ruth B [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 3:33 pm ]
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She seems to have conveniently forgotten the fact that Isaac and Len have got to know each other over 3 years (or would it be 4 for languages?) whilst she and Reg have barely spent 5 minutes together.

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 3:42 pm ]
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My initial reaction to this diatribe from Joey was unprintable - I think I'd better confine myself to agreeing with the comments which others have already posted!! Where was Joey's famed insight here? Clearly it doesn't apply to her own family.

Author:  Liz K [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 4:16 pm ]
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Elder in Ontario wrote:
Where was Joey's famed insight here? Clearly it doesn't apply to her own family.



Especially not to poor Len the "responsible" one who always looks after the rest of the family!!!!!

Author:  Clare [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 4:59 pm ]
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*Snorts*

Well done Joey, you've just driven your daughter away for good!

*Goes away muttering*

Author:  Emma A [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 5:10 pm ]
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The problem is that Joey actually wrote some serious things in her letter which were swamped by the selfish disappointment and shock she was feeling... Still, it seemed the right way to write it. Thanks for all the comments - this was originally intended to be a one-off letter, so it's all your fault for encouraging me!

Dr John Maynard to Miss Helena Maynard

Gornetz Platz
29th April 196-

Dearest Helena,

Please don’t pay any attention to your mother’s letter. She wrote it in the full flush of emotions on the day we received your letter (that is, two days ago), and it somehow got mixed up with the general correspondence to be sent out yesterday, and so was. It was just such a shock to receive your news, and I’m afraid neither of us reacted well. Your mother has calmed down considerably, and will be writing to you again. I didn’t see the letter myself, but she tells me that she wrote some terrible things for which she apologises and hopes you’ll forgive her. But she’ll tell you all that in her next letter.

Your news will take some time to percolate. Although I’m disappointed that you don’t feel able to marry Reg, your decision doesn’t surprise me as much as it has surprised your mother. I think she hadn’t realised how much you have changed inside since you were head girl, nor was she expecting you to change. You have to remember that she’s lived in a fairly restricted society for most of her life, and she was very much looking forward to having you home on the Platz after you graduated.

Reg is pretty cut up about it, poor fellow, and has been going round in a sort of trance of misery. If I didn’t think he’d go off and brood I’d be tempted to make him take some leave, but at present work at the San seems to be keeping him sufficiently occupied. I don’t mean to berate you, dearest, or to make you feel worse than you undoubtedly do at present, but I do wish you had felt able to give us some hint of this, rather than dropping the news like an atom bomb.

While I think that meeting Isaac would be a good idea, I don’t feel that inviting him up here only a few weeks after you’ve told us would be a good thing. We all need time to get used to the idea – firstly that you and Reg will not be marrying, and secondly that you have fallen in love with someone else – before he comes here acknowledged as your fiancé. Write and tell us more about him. What’s his family like? I can’t say I’m overjoyed at the prospect of a Jewish son-in-law, and I think you’ll find problems in the future. Please make sure you’ve thought about them before you embark on something so final. Children, for example – you’ll want them brought up as Catholics, but Isaac and his family may have other ideas. And if you don’t bring them up as one or the other, they will be terribly confused, poor kids.

I’m sorry I don’t have time to write more now, but rest assured we will try to find a way to accept your news and all your plans.

With much love from
Papa

Author:  leahbelle [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 5:10 pm ]
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I'm shocked at Joey's response.

Author:  Alison H [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 5:13 pm ]
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Glad Jack's being more sensible about it - hope Joey will be too once she's calmed down.

Author:  Mona [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 5:14 pm ]
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Oh lovely letter from Jack, just what I was hoping for after Joey's outburst!

I've always had a bit of a soft spot for Jack. When he's not coming over all doctor-y and dosing people willy-nilly, he's really quite lovely. You can see why Joey fell for him.

Author:  abbeybufo [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 5:48 pm ]
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Love Jack's letter

:shock: :shock: about Joey's - really dashed off before she had thought it all through

Thanks Emma - these are so good :D

Author:  Liz K [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 5:59 pm ]
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Hooray, good for Jack, the cool, calm voice of reason.

Author:  Meganmca [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 6:08 pm ]
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Emma--Joey's letter was fantastic--they all have been, but I really think you got the irate mother thing down there. I've heard it in real life, unfortunately, and the end bit about the guy misleading Len & it being all "his" fault, very, very realistic. Plus the "how will people react" bits for the Jewish/Catholic wedding...the sense of her owning Len... I appreciated it being "real" instead of over-the-top-evil, if that makes sense.

Author:  PaulineS [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 6:12 pm ]
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Glad Jack's letter is calmer and alot more supportive. I would be suprised if Len goes home for the fortnight after Joey's letter though,

Author:  Lesley [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 6:49 pm ]
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My first reaction to Joey's letter? 'What a b*tch!'

My first reaction to Jack's letter? 'Better, but still not wonderful'

Surely how Len feels is rather more important than anyone else? As to the comment that Joey's letter got muddled in with the correspondence? I take that with a pinch of salt - had Joey not wanted it sent she'd have torn it up/burnt it.


Thanks Emma - wonderful letters. :lol:

Author:  crystaltips [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 11:06 pm ]
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Well, Jack'sa letter is better than Joey's but I still don't feel that he's being properly supportive of Len - both letters are focussing more on how the news affects others than how it's affecting Len. Surely your daughter should be any parents first priority?

Thanks Emma, hope there's more to come (we need Len's reaction to her parents letters)

Author:  Tara [ Mon Apr 28, 2008 11:29 pm ]
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I can understand Jack and Jo's shock and concern - they must feel they don't really know Len at all, and her sudden commitment to someone they've never before heard of, much less met, must be devastating. So I'll forgive Jack any shortfalls, he's doing his best to be loving and supportive, while coping with his own disappointment, Reg's misery and Joey's hysteria. Joey's letter, however, ought to win a prize for something! Most selfish and least sensitive, perhaps? She'll have to work hard to mend those fences.
It seems to me so, so sad (though, unfortunately, totally realistic) that there's so much grief over the difference in Len and Isaac'a belief systems. At least they both have one, and could it be that their children would grow up, not confused but tolerant??

Great stuff, Emma.

Author:  Emma A [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 10:45 am ]
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Mrs John Maynard to Miss Helena Maynard

Freudesheim
May 1st 196-

Darling Len,

I am so sorry that you had to receive my last letter to you, sent accidentally and without being re-read. I would never have sent it to you if I’d had a chance to read it through again. I was so shocked by your news that I wrote thoughtlessly. Now, calmer, I can try to express my reactions in more measured terms.

Firstly, I admit that I am disappointed that you don’t plan to return to the Platz to marry Reg. I was very much looking forward to this – I’ve missed all three of you girls very much since you’ve been away, and having you at home for the summer holidays has not been enough. I was planning, perhaps foolishly, of the fun we would have together, furnishing the pretty chalet Reg was going to take for you both, having tea together, catching up on all the news. I’m going to lose Margot, perhaps for ever, and so I cling to you and Con even more.

And I’m disappointed that you don’t feel able to marry Reg. I suppose feelings do change, but you’ve known Reg for such a long time, from when you were tinies, that I would have thought that you quite knew your own mind where he was concerned. I like Reg, very much, for his own sake, and would have been proud to call him our son-in-law.

It’s that the news came as such a surprise. You have mentioned Isaac in passing in other letters – I went back to some that I’ve kept, and re-read them. You have barely written a whole paragraph about him, except to say that he’s reading law and is a member of a number of societies which you have in common. You gave us no preparation, no hint, no inkling that your feelings had changed so drastically, and it is this which has been so hard to absorb. I suppose that I’m judging from my own experience: I was always adamant that I wouldn’t marry, would stay at home and be an aunt to my sister’s and brother’s children: and then your father came to mean more to me than those childish ideals. Since then, I’ve never once had second thoughts or regretted my decision to marry him. I saw myself in you, and thought you too had reached the same, life-long decision – about Reg.

Evidently I was wrong about that.

Your father and I have talked this over since your letter, and decided that, much as we would like to meet Isaac, we don’t think it wise for him to accompany you when you return home this vacation. It’s too soon for him to come and be introduced about the place as your fiancé. However, we do plan to make a trip to England this summer for your graduation and Con’s, and we’d very much appreciate it if we could be introduced to him when we come to Oxford. Does that sound any better?

I feel that I’ve failed you as a mother and as a friend that you felt you couldn’t tell me what was in your mind. I’ve always thought that you and the others would come to me with all your problems, great or small, even if I couldn’t solve them for you. Auntie Hilda explained that she has merely given professional advice when asked, about teaching, and encouraged you in thinking about alternatives to your original plans. I suppose I couldn’t give you that, but I do miss being asked. We (your father and I) will try to support your decisions even if we find them difficult to comprehend: I think that you’ve grown up, and that we hadn’t noticed. It’s difficult, when a parent, to understand when your children are ready to make their own decisions, and perhaps we’ve been a little blind where you’re concerned.

I am sorry for my angry letter, and hope you can forgive me.

Your loving
Mamma

P.S. When do your exams start? Felicity seems to think that you’ll be revising right now; if that’s so, I’ll be praying for you. God bless, darling.

Author:  Liz K [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 11:31 am ]
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That's a much better letter!

Author:  Mona [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 11:36 am ]
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Oh, so much better. I hope it helps Len to forgive some of the harsh things said in the previous one.

Author:  Caroline [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 11:40 am ]
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Emma, these are marvellous - thank you. And bless Joey for admitting so many of her own faults in this - a much better letter and I hope Len can forgive her...

I think the p.s. really sums up how out of touch Jo has become with her first born without either meaning to, or noticing that she has become so - she doesn't know when Len's exams start.... Wake up call time, Joey - listen to it and make friends with you daughters as adults...

Author:  Alison H [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 11:42 am ]
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That's better. She was bound to be shocked that Len had broken up with someone who was regarded as a member of the family already and got together with someone whom they know almost nothing about, and it's all to easy to say harsh things when you're upset and worked up.

Hope the meeting with Isaac goes OK. He might be just as well not being dragged round the Gornetz Platz being driven mad about the School and the San the first time he meets Len's parents!

Author:  Joan the Dwarf [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 12:10 pm ]
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These are brilliant! I know I'm being greedy, but any chance we could hear from Isaac and/or his parents? Maybe Jack might drop him a line...?

:) - pretty please with cherry on top smilie

Author:  crystaltips [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 1:23 pm ]
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Well, that's a much better letter from Joey but I wonder if the damage has already been done with the 1st one - would love to read Len's reply.....please :lol:

Author:  PaulineS [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 1:35 pm ]
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Glad Joey realised she should not have posted the first letter, hope Len can forgive her mother. What does Con and Margot think about it all??

Author:  Jennie [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 2:11 pm ]
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Much better letters, though Jack's could do with some work, and a little more thought from him.

I hope Len does well in her finals after all this trouble.

Author:  Abi [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 2:47 pm ]
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Emma, I've just found these and they're wonderful. I'm so glad Joey wrote a better letter, and just hope Len can forgive her for what she wrote in the first one. I like the fact that she's really trying to accept Len's decision though she obviously finds it so hard to cope with.

Author:  Billie [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 5:07 pm ]
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I've just read these straight through, and was glad that Joey did her best to make up for that first awful letter. Poor Len, though! I really hope that she can forgive her mother. I'd like to second the request for some letters from Isaac and his family. I'd like to "meet" the guy.

Author:  Emma A [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 5:17 pm ]
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Miss Helena Maynard to Dr and Mrs John Maynard

Oxford
7th May 196-

Dear Papa and Mamma,

Isaac suggested that I wait for several days before I answered your letters, and I’m glad I did, for otherwise my response to your first, Mamma, might have been as hurtful and intemperate as yours. Fortunately, your letter, Papa, followed soon afterwards, so that I wasn’t tempted to reply until I’d received your second letter, Mamma. I didn’t believe that you could be so unkind or so lacking in all understanding for my decision: I’m not altogether reassured by your second letter, when I guess the first was your initial reaction to my news, though it was a relief to realise that you are trying to understand. I didn’t expect you to herald the news with delight, but to have such a diatribe addressed at my head was utterly disconcerting.

Please believe me that I have agonised over this decision: it was not made lightly and to upset you or anyone else. I can guess how badly I’ve made Reg feel, and it hurts me too, to think of it – but that’s entirely between us both, and nothing to do with anyone else.

We’d love to see you at graduation, Con and I, and we both really appreciate you coming back to England for the occasion. I’ll post off the relevant information to you when I have it. Isaac is looking forward to meeting you (well, not with unalloyed pleasure, since he is somewhat apprehensive, too) – I hope you take to each other.

You wanted to know more about him. Well, he’s a little taller than me, with dark brown eyes and very short curly red-brown hair. He finds life amusing, and makes me laugh at its absurdity, too. He can talk well about almost anything, so I think he’ll be a good barrister, and thinks deeply about all sorts of things. He’s read books I’ve only heard of, and I guess his family are traditionally intellectual: he’s told me stories of disputations round the dinner table that go on for hours! His mother is a doctor, too, Papa. She specialises in paediatrics at Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital – I’ve only met her very briefly, and several months ago. His father is a High Court judge, and was a QC specialising in contract law before he joined the bench (hope I’m using these terms correctly). Isaac’s their youngest son (in fact, he’s only a month older than me) – he has an older sister, Leah, who’s married and has three children, and two older brothers, Solomon and David. Solomon followed his mother into medicine and is a surgeon at Queen Mary, and David is a solicitor. So he’s very unlike me, the eldest of a long family.

From what he’s said, and we’ve discussed, his family aren’t Orthodox Jews: his paternal grandparents came to England from Austria – from Vienna – when Isaac’s father was a boy, before the First War. He’s very thankful they did, given what we’ve discovered about the Holocaust since. They were lucky to get out. His mother’s family, however, have been living in London for a few more generations; the founder of the family came out from Frankfurt in the eighteenth century to establish a banking house, but now the bankers are only Isaac’s cousins several times removed. All his elder siblings have married within the Jewish community, though he says that only Leah is particularly pious, and even then her husband isn’t Orthodox, either.

Isaac isn’t one for religious observance, though I would say that he has a quiet faith in God. However, he’s been encouraged to find out about Biblical history and to discuss the events of the Old Testament as a history of the Jewish people, not necessarily as a guidebook to live one’s daily life. I like this approach of his, so unprescriptive and accepting.

We do argue about things, but he will admit when he’s wrong, or when I’ve made a better point than he has! He does make me think more clearly about things, and he reads essays with a minute and discerning eye – at least, when they’re in English. He has a smattering of Yiddish words which he uses occasionally – so if I come out with terms like schmaltz or zaftig, you’ll know why! His father speaks German, but Isaac and his sister and brothers don’t: so thoroughly English!

Isaac believes that one can deal with anything by discussion. Would that everyone was so reasonable! So we have talked about the potential problems facing us, and will continue to do so. We’re still at the stage of being abashed and astonished by our feelings for one another, so it’s difficult at present to really think seriously about life ten years in the future. But I’m sure we’ll find a way to live together, to reconcile our differing cultures and faiths, and to support each other through any trials that may beset us. And to share all our joys and treasures, too, of course.

With much love,
Helena

P. S. Finals aren’t until mid-June, so we’re still in the midst of lectures and tutorials at present. Though I don’t object to being prayed for at any time.

Author:  LizzieC [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 5:24 pm ]
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Emma A wrote:
the founder of the family came out from Frankfurt in the eighteenth century to establish a banking house, but now the bankers are only Isaac’s cousins several times removed.


Is he related to the Rothschilds then? :shock:

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 5:57 pm ]
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While I'm glad to see Joey made the effort to write a second, somewhat apologetic letter to Len, even that one smacks to me of 'crocodile tears' - OK, so tell me I'm a cynic, someone!! Jack's response was at least more reasonable, though it's clear that both he and Joey are mystified by this turn of events.

But I really do like Len's response to them both - clearly well thought out and reasoned. Isaac sounds like a thoroughly likeable young man, and I really enjoyed the description of his background.

I'm glad to see that even at this stage of the relationship, the two of them are looking realistically at the cultural and religious differences between them - with that type of approach, I'm sure that they will arrive at a compromise they can live with and rear any children by, even if their families may be more doubtful about that.

Thanks, Emma A

Author:  Mona [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 5:59 pm ]
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Len at her responsible, caring best there.

Thanks Emma!

Author:  Lesley [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 7:03 pm ]
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s second letter was a lot better than her first - but I think it will take a very liong time, if ever, for Len to forget the vitriol in that first one. Like Len's letter back to her parents and how she makes it clear that she was hurt, also that the difficulties between herself and Reg are their business, no one elses. Isaac and his family sound excellent - and of a far more professional standing that the Maynards!


Thanks Emma.

Author:  Pat [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 8:03 pm ]
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Part of the problem for Jack and Joey is that they deliberately kept their children young. So they weren't prepared for them to grow up very fast once they'd left home. Kids from normal homes do that when they go to uni, but I suspect that it would be much more of a change for the trips. What is also bad is that they don't seem to have noticed the change in Len when she's been home. It was clear in both of mine after the first term. A big maturing experience like that is bound to change the way kids feel about people they've known all their lives, and it was almost inevitable that Len would change towards Reg once she was out in the world. Apart from in the EBD universe of course!

Author:  abbeybufo [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 9:09 pm ]
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Just caught up with Joey's second letter and Len's reply to her parents - these are really amazing, Emma - you have caught exactly the difficulties one felt were inevitable after Len had spent some time away from home, if there were any real character in her at all . . . Jo is trying hard, for her, I think, as she has always imposed a character on her children, especially the triplets, and she has to come to terms with the fact that they are people in their own right, and not extensions of herself - something most parents realise at a much earlier stage in their offspring's development.

Thanks for these Emma - I'm really enjoying reading them, and I' too, would like to hear more from Isaac and his family :D

Author:  Tara [ Tue Apr 29, 2008 11:27 pm ]
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I'm impressed with the way in which Len has made her feelings clear without being abusive or unreasonable. She is a very mature young woman - and Isaac's family sound absolutely delightful and just right for her.

Thanks, Emma.

Author:  Emma A [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 9:08 am ]
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Thanks for the kind comments. This letter's somewhat out of date order.

Mr Isaac Mendel to Dr Miriam Mendel

Pembroke College
Oxford
28th April

Dear Ma,

Cast your mind back a few months, to a blustery day in late October, when you’d come up to Oxford for the day to give a lecture at Shrewsbury. You were in something of a rush afterwards, because you had to get back to London, but you may recall me introducing to you a young woman with chestnut hair and dark blue eyes, quite tall and slim, in a blue dress and coat. Her name is Helena Maynard. Did you think she looked a nice girl? I certainly do. In fact, I love her.

That was easier written than I anticipated.

It’s the rest of it that won’t be so easy. I’ll spare you the rhapsodies of youth’s fair dream for now, and plunge into the mundane. Helena is not Jewish. In fact, baptised and confirmed a Catholic. At some point in the future, we hope to marry. Do you think you could accept a nice goyim girl into the family? She will fit in well, I think: she’s the eldest of a long family (she has ten brothers and sisters!) and is used to argument; she’s intelligent, hard-working and well-read, and speaks three languages apart from English. She is wry and makes funny observations about people, but is always kinder than they deserve. Did I mention that she’s pretty, too? But she has more than that under the skin, character and charm, too, and I find her altogether miraculous. The most extraordinary thing is that she feels about me as I do about her.

I seem to have given you something of a rhapsody there, but I won’t apologise for it. She had a fiancé back home (Switzerland – her family live on the Gornetz Platz. Her father is John Maynard, the TB chap, and head of the Gornetz San), but I gather from reading between the lines – not directly from Helena, since she’s been anxious to be as fair as possible to all parties, understandably – that she might have been subjected to a certain amount of parental blackmail over the betrothal. The fiancé, also a doctor, is several years her senior, and they were engaged before she left school. I don’t think there was a great deal of common ground between them then, and probably even less now.

She seems to have had rather an odd upbringing, given what she’s told me. Her mother (who’s a writer of children’s books under her maiden name – not one I’d heard of) was the first pupil and later major shareholder in a school set up in the Tirol by her sister (Helena’s aunt). The school moved around during and after the War, finally settling in Switzerland, and the Maynard family seem to have followed it around: apart from a couple of years spent in Canada, undertaken for Helena’s triplet sister, Margot’s, health. Even when the school was in Switzerland, Helena’s parents lived next door (and still do). Do you think that seems a bit strange? I liked school well enough, but I certainly wouldn’t have wanted to spend much time nearby during the holidays. Anyway, Helena and her five sisters were or are educated at this illustrious foundation: it has a formidable trilingual lesson system, so its pupils leave being reasonably fluent in English, German and French. Helena also speaks Italian. I should add, if you let Dad read this missive, that Helena unfortunately was never at the school when it was in Tirol, since she was born in Guernsey, though her family have a holiday house by the Tiernsee. Dad might have gone there on holiday when he was a boy, perhaps.

Her original plan, before her engagement to the doctor, was to get her diploma and teach languages in England for a while, then go back to the Chalet School to teach. It seems quite a tradition for old girls to return there. Now, she says that she doesn’t plan to return to the school and thinks she would do more good in the state system. I don’t say she’s wrong – she’s certainly a born teacher. If she decides to go on with this plan, then she’ll be earning more than me for a while! I’ve had a positive reply from Lenham Briggs’ chambers, so I’ll start there next term under Theodore Danckwerts, conditional on degree. While I’m pleased, I can’t help thinking that being Dad’s son might have made my path easier.

Helena and I are not officially engaged. But we’ve made an agreement to be engaged at some point in the future. That may seem strange, but Helena’s understandably wary of making a definite and public commitment right now. We don’t think our feelings are going to change, but I think she needs a little time to be sure that she’s definitely doing the right thing. She’s so very conscientious, and anxious to do the right thing, even if it hurts her. I can’t help admiring that, and her.

I hope this hasn’t been a huge surprise to you, and that you can spare some time in June to come up for graduation, and to meet Helena properly. Do you think you could write to her? She’s at Shrewsbury, and would welcome a kind word.

I will sign off now, and post this shortly, before burying myself in the intricacies of jurisprudence.

Love from
Isaac

Author:  Alison H [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 9:21 am ]
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Looking forward to seeing how Isaac's parents respond. I like the way Isaac himself comes across in the letter.

Author:  Cath V-P [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 9:23 am ]
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I've just caught up with this, and you've realised the individual voices beautifully Emma! Joey was so typical of herself, and also of her circumstances, and you realise just how unusual these were when you read Isaac's letter. And of course that carried on with the Maynards' upbringing. At least Jack and Jo are trying to communicate with Len, althougyh that first letter may have done more damage than Joey - and perhaps Len herself - realise at the moment.

Loved the ref to the CS as an 'illustrious foundation"!!!! :lol:

Author:  Mona [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 10:44 am ]
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Isaac sounds lovely. I'm looking forward to seeing his parents' response.

Author:  jennifer [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 10:58 am ]
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Emma A wrote:

What on earth are you thinking? Have you even considered anyone but yourself in this?


That, I think, says it all. When you marry someone you *have* to consider yourself first - marrying because of other people is rarely a good idea. This letter is pure Joey, with her dramatic hysterical tendencies, and her limited outlook.

Could you imagine setting up married life on the Platz with Joey 'helping'? Poor Len would never be able to do anything entirely on her own, or without Joey's input.

I have to say, I sympathize with Len's attempt to describe Isaac to her parents. I've been recently trying to describe a serious boyfriend to my mother, who hasn't met him yet due to the 5000 km between us and her. It's hard, even with a sympathetic/interested parent, particularly when you have different race/religion/nationality/native language.

Author:  Liz K [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 11:04 am ]
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I also like the sound of Isaac, I think Len'll have a better life with him than with Reg.

Author:  PaulineS [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 11:41 am ]
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I hope Isaac's family are more supportive of him and Len.

Author:  Jennie [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 1:51 pm ]
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One in the eye for Joey and Jack. Obviously a good family, and welcoming to Len, so I think the Maynard parents need to butt out of the lives of adult daughters.

Len's letter was a masterpiece of rationality, and her parents need to heed the warning implicit in it.

Author:  JayB [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 1:56 pm ]
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Isaac sounds a very likeable young man, and seems to have a good relationship with his mother, judging from his letter. And I like his dismissal of Joey:
Quote:
Her mother (who’s a writer of children’s books under her maiden name – not one I’d heard of)

I'm pleased that he's also supportive of Helena's teaching career. I'm sure that if she had married Reg and gone back to live on the Platz, Joey would have been expecting her to be 'busy' almost immediately, and would have gone on and on about not having any use for small families.

Author:  Lisa_T [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 3:27 pm ]
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Oh I love this! Giggled at Pembroke, though, as I know the college having had an interview there.

Any chance of hearing more about the Joey/Hilda row? That's one I'd love to have overheard. Or letters between Len and Hilda and/or Len and Nell. Len's always been close to Hilda, and Nell is her godmother, so there's good reason to talk to both.

Issac sounds absolutely delightful, and I look forward to seeing his mother's response. I have a feeling it may be more temperate than Joey's...

Author:  Liz K [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 3:58 pm ]
Post subject: 

Lisa_T wrote:
Issac sounds absolutely delightful, and I look forward to seeing his mother's response. I have a feeling it may be more temperate than Joey's...



I bet she is!! I wonder exactly how different she'll be from Joey..............

Author:  abbeybufo [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 5:05 pm ]
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Isaac is lovely - he obviously has a much more adult relationship with his parents than Len does with hers - and he comes over as really caring and special

Thanks Emma

Author:  leahbelle [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 5:05 pm ]
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I like the sound of Isaac and I hope his family are more supportive than Joey.

Author:  Emma A [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 6:14 pm ]
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Dr Miriam Mendel to Miss Helena Maynard

London
7th May 196-

Dear Helena,

I hope you don’t mind me calling you by your first name: it seems friendlier, don’t you think, than a stiff Miss Maynard? Isaac wrote to me a few days ago telling of your news: I apologise for not writing to you sooner, but I have been almost permanently at the hospital these past few days. I would be the first to admit that I have not always been an admirable parent, but I have been aware that something had changed him recently, made him more himself, I think. So I was touched by his letter, and the honesty with which he wrote, and the clarity with which he described you.

Things have come very easily to him, and I am pleased to know that you have determination and conscience, for you sound to me as though you are doing him good. I’m glad to know that you will stick to your guns if you feel it right, for Isaac will try to persuade you to his own opinion if he can – though at least he will admit if he’s been out-argued, unlike his brother Solomon, who is as stubborn as a mule.

I won’t, at present, go as far as welcoming you with open arms to the family, since I only recall a very brief meeting during Michaelmas term, and I have no idea how we will get along. But I do have a high opinion of my youngest son’s sense, and he is unlikely to have fallen in love with someone uncongenial. I will make arrangements to keep graduation week free from commitments (though as Isaac has probably told you, and you probably know from your father’s work, my time is not always my own), and come up to Oxford to meet you – and to see Isaac graduate, of course. If I lecture him strongly enough, I may even prevail upon Leopold to relinquish his legal duties for a day to accompany me.

Your family being in Switzerland may not be able to travel to your ceremony: if they cannot, you are most welcome to spend the day with us.

I look forward to meeting you in June.

Sincerely,
Miriam

Author:  Lesley [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 6:14 pm ]
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Also love how Isaac comes across - and the way he writes to his mother suggests he has a very close relationship with her. Think it's likely that she will be accepting that Len's parents.

One minor Emmaism - Len's eyes are grey I think - but perhaps Isaac is colour-blind! :wink:


Thanks Emma.

Author:  Emma A [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 6:17 pm ]
Post subject: 

Lesley wrote:
One minor Emmaism - Len's eyes are grey I think - but perhaps Isaac is colour-blind! :wink:

I seem to remember EBD saying they were like English wood violets, so I interpret that to be dark blue... :wink:

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 6:30 pm ]
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Isaac certainly comes across as a very caring and sincere individual in his account of Len to his parents. I think that he and Len will be very good for each other, as well as being very happy - as well as being well aware that they will need to wait for each other. As for his mother's response, that really is a 'class act', coupled with a very realistic assessment of her son and the good that, as she notes, Len has already done him.

Thanks Emma.

Author:  Lesley [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 6:37 pm ]
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Oh, just realised that there was another letter - missed it as I posted at same time - I absolutely love Isaac's mother - what a fabulous letter - contrasts very very strongly with the letters from len's own parents.


Thanks Emma.

Author:  Katherine [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 6:51 pm ]
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Ooh, does this mean the two sets of parents are destined to meet at graduation?

Author:  crystaltips [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 6:57 pm ]
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I just loved Len's letter - calm but very upfront. Issac's letter to his mother was very good to - think I'm going to like him & nice that his mother sounds so supportive.
Can't wait for the Maynard/Mendel parents meeting - will we have Len describing it in a letter to someone? Hilda or Nell perhaps.
Need Con's & Margot's reactions to Lens news now .

Greedy? Me? Never! :roll:

Author:  abbeybufo [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 7:19 pm ]
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Lovely letter from Miriam - thanks Emma

Author:  Lisa_T [ Wed Apr 30, 2008 9:32 pm ]
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Miriam sounds so nice! I love the way she's treating Len, as another adult, rather than as a silly girl her son has picked up. I think Len will appreciate that attitude after Joey.

Emma, where's the rest of your stuff? It doesn't seem to be in the archive.

Re English wood violets - it's hard to tell, but based on a google EBD's description of violety-grey is about right. Although you can take your pic - 'English wood violets' is so generic! Maybe Kathy S can clarify? :wink:

Author:  Alison H [ Thu May 01, 2008 12:11 am ]
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Isaac's mum sounds lovely: she could have reacted very differently.

Author:  Liz K [ Thu May 01, 2008 6:41 am ]
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What a great letter from Isaac's mum.

Author:  PaulineS [ Thu May 01, 2008 12:33 pm ]
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I like the sound of Miriam, well done,

Thanks Emma

Author:  Mona [ Thu May 01, 2008 12:52 pm ]
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Love Miriam's letter, thanks!

Author:  MaryR [ Thu May 01, 2008 7:45 pm ]
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Fascinating stuff, Emma. And very perceptive.

Thank you.

Author:  LauraMcC [ Thu May 01, 2008 8:47 pm ]
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I love the fact that Isaac hasn't even heard of JMB :shock: and I hope that Dr Mendel will love Len. How different she sounds from the irate Joey!

And it would be fun to see the Maynards and the Mendels meeting. :lol:

Author:  Elle [ Fri May 02, 2008 7:37 am ]
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Katherine wrote:
Ooh, does this mean the two sets of parents are destined to meet at graduation?


Fight! Fight! Fight!


Excellent letters from Isaac and his mother. Thanks Emma, this is really good.

Author:  Emma A [ Fri May 02, 2008 11:16 pm ]
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I've assumed for the purposes of this letter that Odette has a serious psychological problem that went undiagnosed in her years at school, and has now sought treatment for it.

Miss Constance Maynard to Mlle. Odette Mercier


Oxford
9th May 196-

My dear Odette,

A thousand thanks for your last letter, since it made me very glad to know that you are on the way to health. It makes me wish I had urged you to try something similar much earlier, instead of leaving you in misery for so long. Evidently, what you talk about with Dr. de Fremouille will remain private between you both, but if you’d like to write to me about any of it, I shall do my best to respond suitably. I hope that your mother is not too distressed by the idea.

And now for some news which I think will interest you: Helena has decided that she can’t marry Dr Entwhistle. I can’t tell you how much her decision relieves my mind. It isn’t as though I don’t like Reg – we all do. But lately I’ve come to think that she would be well off without him. Like all of us, since we left school, she’s grown so much, and I don’t think she would be content with a narrow life on the Platz. She has given me permission to tell you about this, so don’t worry that I’m telling secrets that I should not. I’m not sure whether she would have had the confidence to give Reg his congé, if it were not for Isaac Mendel, with whom she has struck up a relationship that is, to my mind, far healthier and more appropriate. Helena does have a terrible tendency to try to do what she thinks is most decent and honourable, and if it weren’t for Isaac, I have a feeling that she might well have felt bound by her engagement. He encourages her to argue with him: whereas one always felt with Reg that discussion and opposition would be the last thing he would want or expect from his wife.

Mamma did not take the news well, at first, as you can imagine. She had had her heart set on her darling daughter returning to the Platz, setting up home there, and probably starting a family. I’m rather glad she seems to have no such expectations for me! I think the main problem is that neither of our parents have realised that we’re adults now, not children, and capable of making our own decisions. These may not be the right decisions, but we have to be left alone to make them. You’ve chosen to acknowledge your demons and to try to resolve the conflict that these have left in you – whereas your mother prefers to bury them deeply. What works for our parents doesn’t necessarily work for us, and it can take some time for them to discover this.

While I don’t find Isaac quite so heart-stopping as my sister does (thankfully!), I do find him very likeable. I’ve tried to frame words that express how they seem together, and I’m not sure that I have managed. They seem to go well together, in a way that she and Reg never did. He makes her laugh, makes her voice her opinions, and is genuinely interested in everything she says and does. They seem complementary: the one’s gifts and talents working in combination with the other’s. Although they evidently feel a great deal for each other – sometimes the look in their eyes is quite shaking, to an observer, with the strength of emotion – one doesn’t feel excluded or ill-at-ease in their company. And that is very different: one always felt as though Reg would be glad if you went away and left Helena with him forever. Poor chap, I ought not to be so harsh. He had a lonely childhood, and I guess clung desperately to the idea that there would be one person who would love him above all others. Unfortunately, Helena was not she.

I was glad of the excuse in writing to you, for I have an essay to finish tomorrow for Dr Kendrick, and I had run out of good arguments. I hoped that by a complete change of subject I might think of more original things to write about Gawain and the Green Knight. I like Anglo-Saxon, I like the poem, and the story it tells is familiar after being told in several versions both at home and at school. But originality has deserted me at present.

I heard from Richenda Fry recently: she asked for news of you. I have her address if you’d like to write. She’s finishing her Fine Arts course soon, and she has hopes of a job with Sotheby’s Ceramics department. She’s one who has stuck to her old plans, and it’s evident that she has a real passion and knowledge of her subject. She told me about hours spent at museums and galleries – and of course, when her father died last year, all his collection was left to her. The first thing she did, apparently, was to have the whole lot insured: Professor Fry had only bothered insuring some of his more valuable pieces, and Richenda was horrified by how much the collection was worth. She had an expert come in to do all the valuing and enjoyed his comments and advice.

I must leave off now, for it’s almost time for dinner and I am hungry – I didn’t realise quite how much my appetite would increase from studying so intensely!

I hope all continues to go well.

With love from
Con

P. S. I had to open this to add one more thing: Helena has heard from Isaac’s mother, a children’s doctor in London, who has written what my sister calls “a really lovely letter”. The Mendels plan to come up to Oxford for graduation and so will have a chance to meet our parents – who are making the trip for our special day. I am looking forward to seeing how they do or don’t get on together.

Author:  Lisa_T [ Fri May 02, 2008 11:24 pm ]
Post subject: 

Quote:
Although they evidently feel a great deal for each other – sometimes the look in their eyes is quite shaking, to an observer, with the strength of emotion – one doesn’t feel excluded or ill-at-ease in their company. And that is very different: one always felt as though Reg would be glad if you went away and left Helena with him forever.


This is very perceptive of Con, and I think it reflects well on the maturity of everyone concerned. I've been in situations with the excluding kind of lovebirds, and it is horrible!

Another lovely letter, Emma. How interesting that Con too has switched to using 'Helena'.

Author:  Emma A [ Fri May 02, 2008 11:33 pm ]
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I'd decided that Len had changed to using her full name while at Oxford, gradually coming to like it, now that she's growing up properly. And I think that perhaps "Len" is rather too associated with school and her childhood and Reg for it to be entirely comfortable for her. So Con is using Helena because that's what her sister wants. And it's why Joey and Jack are still calling her Len...

(Honestly, I'm talking about her as if she's real :wink: )

Author:  Alison H [ Fri May 02, 2008 11:46 pm ]
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Nice to see that Con's in touch with Odette, and that she's obviously fully behind Len (sorry, Helena!) and Isaac.

Author:  Cath V-P [ Sat May 03, 2008 5:07 am ]
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What an understanding leter form Con, and how accurately she pinpoints the problem:
Quote:
neither of our parents have realised that we’re adults now, not children, and capable of making our own decisions. These may not be the right decisions, but we have to be left alone to make them.
And her comprehension of Reg is very wise - that he's not a villain, but he's not right for Len.

Author:  Liz K [ Sat May 03, 2008 11:00 am ]
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Emma A wrote:
I'd decided that Len had changed to using her full name while at Oxford, gradually coming to like it, now that she's growing up properly. And I think that perhaps "Len" is rather too associated with school and her childhood and Reg for it to be entirely comfortable for her. So Con is using Helena because that's what her sister wants. And it's why Joey and Jack are still calling her Len...

(Honestly, I'm talking about her as if she's real :wink: )


I get so carried away by this and other threads, that sometimes I forget it is only fiction.

But, again, this is excellent.

Thanks Emma.

Author:  crystaltips [ Sat May 03, 2008 1:54 pm ]
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Lovely letter from Con - very mature. Hope Odette can deal with her problems.

Also glad Helena is using her given name. I always hated Len as a diminutive, Con & Margot I could accept but Len......that could give a girl an identity crisis :shock:

Author:  Lesley [ Sat May 03, 2008 1:58 pm ]
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It is real, isn't it?


Emma that was a lovely letter from Con - very perceptive and using her talents as a writer to see beneath the surface. She also seems to have grown well and to blossomed into an adult. Sorry to hear about Odette - but pleased she is receiving treatment - and that she is still friendly with Con. Sad that Richenda's father has died - leaves her all alone at the age of just 20? Wonder if she had anyone else placed as her Guardian?


Thanks.

Author:  abbeybufo [ Sat May 03, 2008 2:46 pm ]
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Thanks Emma - good to hear Con's side of it - and to see that she has recognised the difference between the way the triplets' parents treat them and the Mendels treat their son [and presumably their other offspring]. Like her perception of the differenec in Isaac's and Reg's attitude too - in fact lots of good things in this post :D

PS - which makes it look as if I didn't think there were lots of good things in earlier posts, when of course there are :oops:

[of course it's real, Lesley - thought you were lying down with a cold compress on your head . . .]

Author:  PaulineS [ Sat May 03, 2008 6:24 pm ]
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Thanks Emma the letters are facinating.

Author:  LauraMcC [ Sat May 03, 2008 10:08 pm ]
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Thanks for this, Emma - it's nice that Con's being so supportive of her sister, and that she approves of Isaac! I also think that 'Helena' sounds so much more stately than 'Len', and more grown-up, although for some reason, I loved the diminutive when I was younger. :roll:

Author:  Rosalin [ Sat May 03, 2008 11:33 pm ]
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Nice to hear from Con there, and hearing her sound so mature and perceptive. I like your reasoning for the use of Len vs Helena.

Thanks Emma.

Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sun May 04, 2008 1:21 pm ]
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Thanks, am enjoying all the different reactions from everyone

Author:  MaryR [ Sun May 04, 2008 2:46 pm ]
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Our characters are all real to us, Emma. :lol: How else could we get inside them? :roll:

Con is so genuinely interested in people, isn't she? And cares so much for them. Clearly the writer in her watches them closely.

Thank you.

Author:  Jennie [ Sun May 04, 2008 8:06 pm ]
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Thanks, Emma, lovely letter from Con. How that girl grows in perception and wisdom.

Author:  Miss Di [ Mon May 05, 2008 4:50 am ]
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Thanks Emma, have just read all your letters in one swoop.
I nearly killed Joey for her first letter but have been fascinated by the others.

Author:  Tassie_Ellen [ Mon May 05, 2008 10:14 am ]
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What Di said! Have just found and read this on one go, Emma, and really enjoyed it. Looking forward to more... :wink:

Thanks, Ellen

Author:  Caroline [ Tue May 06, 2008 10:18 am ]
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abbeybufo wrote:
Thanks Emma - good to hear Con's side of it - and to see that she has recognised the difference between the way the triplets' parents treat them and the Mendels treat their son [and presumably their other offspring].


Not that I'm denying that the Maynards have got things wrong or missed the fact that their daughters have grown up etc., but Isaac is the Mendels' youngest son (I think!) and the triplets are Joey and Jack's eldest.

So it could just be that the Mendels have come to terms with their children growing up by now, having made similar mistakes to J&J with Isaac's older siblings (query - do we know how many older siblings he has?).

With any luck, Joey and Jack will learn their lesson also and won't make quite such bad mistakes with the rest of their brood as they have with Len....

Thanks, Emma - I'm loving this string of letters.

Author:  Elle [ Tue May 06, 2008 2:47 pm ]
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Yet another wonderful update Emma, thank you. I am glad that Con is supportive. Are we going to hear from Margot? Hint hint!

Thanks again.

Author:  Emma A [ Tue May 06, 2008 9:02 pm ]
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Mrs John Maynard to Lady Russell

Freudesheim
May 2nd 196-

Dearest Madge,

I don’t know what news you may or may not have heard through the family grapevine, but I think you should know that Len has decided that she can’t marry Reg. Why do children insist on disappointing their parents? I ought not to be so shocked, but the news came as such a surprise that I hardly know what to think or believe. I’d always thought that the children, particularly the triplets, thought of me as their friend as well as their mother, and that they would confide in me all their problems and fears and joys. But it appears not. Len chose to confide her teaching ambitions in Hilda Annersley, and seems to have told no-one but Con about her feelings for the young man for whom she has jilted Reg.

They aren’t even to be married soon, for he’s the same age as Len, and will be entering chambers prior to being called to the Bar – and it will be some years before he’s in a position to support them both. Until then, Len says that she will teach – but she plans not to do so, ever, at the Chalet School. I find it so hard to accept that her feelings have changed so drastically: both about Reg and about teaching. She claims that she felt “restricted”, and that she wouldn’t want to return to the narrow life on the Platz. I’ve never found it so.

I was looking forward to having her here. There’s a pretty chalet now vacant which Reg had agreed to take, and there are bits and pieces of furniture here at Freudesheim which they could have had to start their housekeeping. I saw myself helping them both, visiting Len for tea, giving her tips about housekeeping and so on, and looking forward to the grandchildren to come. I know Reg wanted children, and Len’s always been fond of babes, so I don’t suppose they’d have waited long before starting their family.

I feel as though I’ve been walking through a familiar room in the dark, knowing exactly where I was, and then tripped over something which was never there before. It’s left me shaken and afraid. What else has changed that I don’t know about?

Isaac – the barrister-to-be – is from a professional and seemingly well-off Jewish family. His mother is a children’s doctor – Jack says that he has heard of her work for children with serious respiratory diseases, and that she is doing some pioneering treatment for conditions such as asthma (whatever that is) and bronchitis. His father is a High Court judge, apparently: we found his entry in Who’s Who (which surprised me, though Felicity had told me that they’d used the book in a recent Civics lesson – some quite extraordinary people are listed there, as well as more distinguished people like Jem, and Judge Mendel). So one can’t object on the grounds of family, even if they aren’t Christian.

I can’t help thinking that Len is making a big mistake, and I’ve put myself in the wrong by writing angrily to her – I have apologised and I think she has forgiven me – but I don’t know what I can say to her that will make her change her mind. You didn’t have these problems with Sybil and Josette and they didn’t break engagements and make themselves jilts. Can you suggest anything that might make her reconsider?

Poor Reg is in a state, as you can imagine. I don’t know whether it’s a good thing that Len is not here, or whether it would be easier for him if she were. As it is, she only plans to come home for two weeks after graduation, before doing some teaching practice in London. It makes me wonder whether she doesn’t love us any more – this desire to spend so little time here – and I am so frightened that we’ll lose her forever.

Please do write and let me know what you think.

Your loving sister,
Jo

Author:  Pat [ Tue May 06, 2008 9:07 pm ]
Post subject: 

Oh Jo! You have to let them go if you want to keep them! Len's an adult, and you have to let her make her own decisions.

Author:  PaulineS [ Tue May 06, 2008 9:22 pm ]
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O, Jo children grow up and as my mother said when I was eighteen and about to go to training school and from my home city, "you have to let children go and then they will come back."

You cannot live your life through your children.

Author:  Rosalin [ Tue May 06, 2008 9:33 pm ]
Post subject: 

Interesting to see how Jo is really feeling now as she presumably can write much more openly to Madge than to Helena.

Thanks Emma.

Author:  Lesley [ Tue May 06, 2008 9:51 pm ]
Post subject: 

She is in danger of losing Len completely - and cannot see that, if she does, she will be at fault. So sad - I hope Madge can talk some sense into her. And why shouldn't Helena have spoken to Hilda about her teaching ambitions?


Thanks Emma.

Author:  Liz K [ Tue May 06, 2008 9:52 pm ]
Post subject: 

Oh dear, so true what you are all saying, if only my mum had let me go when I was 18, how different things might have been.............

I wonder how Madge will reply.

Quote: "She claims that she felt “restricted”, and that she wouldn’t want to return to the narrow life on the Platz. I’ve never found it so." - but then what else have you done with your life, Joey?

Quote: "I was looking forward to having her here. There’s a pretty chalet now vacant which Reg had agreed to take, and there are bits and pieces of furniture here at Freudesheim which they could have had to start their housekeeping. I saw myself helping them both, visiting Len for tea, giving her tips about housekeeping and so on, and looking forward to the grandchildren to come. I know Reg wanted children, and Len’s always been fond of babes, so I don’t suppose they’d have waited long before starting their family." My ex-MIL lived her life through my ex - not good, not good at all, she was always trying to find out what he was up to and if he didn't tell her, she'd come after me instead trying to find out what he was up to.

Quote: "I can’t help thinking that Len is making a big mistake, and I’ve put myself in the wrong by writing angrily to her – I have apologised and I think she has forgiven me – but I don’t know what I can say to her that will make her change her mind. You didn’t have these problems with Sybil and Josette and they didn’t break engagements and make themselves jilts. Can you suggest anything that might make her reconsider?" You can't, Joey!! End of story! You'd really set Len against you, trying to change her mind.

Many apologies for my rambling on folks, but this brings back bitter memories.

Author:  Lisa_T [ Tue May 06, 2008 9:58 pm ]
Post subject: 

I'm torn between wanting to shake Joey and feeling sorry for her. I hope Madge can help - although I doubt it, myself. Madge was pretty selfish about her daughters, but maybe Emma will have a more charitable interpretation. :wink:

Another lovely letter, Emma. Looking forward to the next one.

Author:  Emma A [ Tue May 06, 2008 10:04 pm ]
Post subject: 

Lisa_T wrote:
I'm torn between wanting to shake Joey and feeling sorry for her. I hope Madge can help - although I doubt it, myself. Madge was pretty selfish about her daughters, but maybe Emma will have a more charitable interpretation. :wink:

Another lovely letter, Emma. Looking forward to the next one.


The next letter is from Madge to Jo. I've been influenced a little by Jennie's drabbles (not to the extent of having Madge be alcoholic!), but enough that Madge is aware that she has made mistakes.

Author:  abbeybufo [ Tue May 06, 2008 10:09 pm ]
Post subject: 

Thanks Emma - another fascinating letter - shows just how little Jo has really grown up - far less so indeed than her daughters! :roll:

Author:  Alison H [ Tue May 06, 2008 10:55 pm ]
Post subject: 

I had to laugh when Joey said she'd looked Isaac's family up in Who's Who :lol: !

I do feel a bit sorry for her, though. She needs to accept that she has to let Len go, but I can well imagine that she was looking forward to having her living nearby - Len had been saying since her early teens that she hoped to teach at the CS - and that she's shaken to realise that Len has changed and also has chosen to confide in other people.

Looking forward to hearing what Madge has to say - especially as Sybil and Josette have both ended up living on the other side of the world.

Author:  roversgirl [ Wed May 07, 2008 5:22 am ]
Post subject: 

Thank you for all the letters :)

Author:  jennifer [ Wed May 07, 2008 5:52 am ]
Post subject: 

Emma A wrote:

I’d always thought that the children, particularly the triplets, thought of me as their friend as well as their mother, and that they would confide in me all their problems and fears and joys.

...

I find it so hard to accept that her feelings have changed so drastically: both about Reg and about teaching. She claims that she felt “restricted”, and that she wouldn’t want to return to the narrow life on the Platz. I’ve never found it so.


This says it all - I want my daughters to see me as their friend and confide me, but I don't expect their wants and needs to deviate from what I think is best.


Quote:
I saw myself helping them both, visiting Len for tea, giving her tips about housekeeping and so on, and looking forward to the grandchildren to come.


Eep. Now *there's* a reason never to go back to the Platz. I have to laugh at the idea of Joey giving housekeeping tips - Step 1: Hire a faithful handmaiden who will do all the work for little pay, and regard you with adoring devotion. Step 2: Hire an assistant and a mother's help. Step 3: Serve tea and cookies to guests (made by the maid, of course), and bathe the babies whenever you have an audience. Occasionally darn your husbands socks.

Author:  Karry [ Wed May 07, 2008 7:41 am ]
Post subject: 

Liz K said
Quote:
"She claims that she felt “restricted”, and that she wouldn’t want to return to the narrow life on the Platz. I’ve never found it so." - but then what else have you done with your life, Joey?
But what else had Joey known? She went from a sheltered school life, to a sheltered family life with madge and jem, to a sheltered married life (even though there were excitements it was still within a tight circle of people who pampered her) to a closed environment on the Platz. She had never had the freedom of living on her own in a large city or meeting people she had not known for ever!

Author:  Mona [ Wed May 07, 2008 8:26 am ]
Post subject: 

Thanks Emma, what Joey had to say to Madge is very revealing. I do feel some sympathy for her, she knows she was wrong in her response to Helena, but doesn't know how to fix it.

Author:  Elbee [ Wed May 07, 2008 9:02 am ]
Post subject: 

Thanks Emma, these letters are all really interesting, showing up the different characters and attitudes.

Author:  Emma A [ Wed May 07, 2008 12:59 pm ]
Post subject: 

Lady Russell to Mrs John Maynard

Llan-y-penllan
May 6th 196-

My dear Jo,

Your news about Len did not come entirely as a surprise, since she telephoned to Mollie yesterday to ask if she might leave her trunk at the Quadrant while she goes home to you. Naturally, some details were given, which Mollie passed on to me.

I am going to write very plainly to you, Jo, in the hope that you’ll take some advice and learn from my mistakes. Helena was extremely upset by your letter, and it will take more than a simple apology to heal that damage. I know this because it has taken some time for both Sybil and Josette to forgive me for the things I said to them when they got engaged. I had hauled them both out to Australia, merely to keep me company while Jem was conferencing, and because I didn’t want to miss the last of their girlhood: I was bitterly resentful that they chose to become betrothed to Australians while we were out there.

The girls have forgiven me now, and we are in close contact – even though I wish that they were nearer at hand – however, it is my own fault that they are so far away; due to my selfishness, I almost lost them. At least I still have Ailie, and the boys not far away, but I continue to reproach myself for that time of petulance and disappointment.

Jo, you must accept that the triplets are growing up. Helena is - and the others are - older now than when you were when you married, and yet you are still thinking of her as a child who doesn’t know her own mind. Stop thinking about how her news affects you. Forget that the news is a shock, forget your own disappointment, put all that to one side, and concentrate on how you can be most supportive to your daughter, who needs you, even if you don’t think she does.

The fact that she still plans to come home after graduation says to me, at least, that her ties to home are strong – and of course she loves you and Jack. She would ask Hilda for advice about teaching because she is the most appropriate person to consult, and she has contacts back in England that would be of help to Helena in her training. How you can read from this that she will never confide in you again, I do not know! I think it wrong to force confidences, anyway. I tried to do that with Sybil and Josette, and they reacted by confiding elsewhere: I daresay Helena will do the same. There comes a time in every parent’s life when they realise that their child no longer needs them, and this time, for Helena, has come to you. You must let her go, dear. It’s so difficult, particularly with girls, to let them out into the world which we know can be hard and dangerous, but we should not coddle them or keep them tied to our (metaphorical) apron strings. Helena will confide in you if she trusts you – trusts you to stand by her, trusts you not to nag or carp or criticise, trusts you to keep her counsel. If she can’t trust you to do those things, then she will make her confidences to someone who will.

As for objecting to the young man – why on earth would you object? Do you suppose that Helena has completely lost all her principles, and attached herself to a man without honour or decency? By impugning him, you are implying to Helena that she is at fault and criticising her judgment. His being Jewish may cause problems – though from what I gather about the Mendels, I doubt whether overt anti-Semitism will be one of them. I doubt his family would object, either: they aren’t Orthodox, are they? Helena is a sensible young woman, and she will think through any difficulties that may occur.

I hope you’re not angry with me, and I don’t mean to criticise you, but I can’t stand by without warning you of what might happen if you don’t lose your own ego. Once your daughter’s confidence is lost, it will take much time and effort to restore it, if indeed you can. And you will never recapture the first, free, trusting nature of that relationship.

If Jack can arrange some time off from the San, perhaps you could come over to England and meet Isaac and his family, and see Helena with him. Once you’ve seen for yourself how much they both must be in earnest, surely you can find it in yourself to support them both? And we’d love to see you both, too – it’s been a while since you last visited Wales.

With love from
Madge

Author:  Jennie [ Wed May 07, 2008 1:03 pm ]
Post subject: 

Thanks, Emma. What Jo is saying there is that she still wants to direct Len's life, and have her follow a familiar pattern, and she can't cope with the idea that Len is an independent young lady. BTW: doesn't Len have a small income from her grandmother? I know it paid for her university career, but the interest must have mounted up in over fifteen years, so that would be enough for Len to have a good start.

Jo is still thinking of herself, rather than Len and Len's emotions.

My mother was the possessive one, possessve but not loving. I used to catch her poking into my cupboards so she could count the sherry glasses that she had given me.

Author:  Liz K [ Wed May 07, 2008 1:16 pm ]
Post subject: 

I wish someone had written a similar letter to MY mother. Gran and one my aunts tried to tell her but she wouldn't listen.

Thanks, Emma, that's one heck of a letter.

Author:  Fiona Mc [ Wed May 07, 2008 1:22 pm ]
Post subject: 

Am very glad Madge was so brutally honest about her experiences and in telling Joey what she could stand to lose. Thanks Emma, I'm really enjoying this drabble

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Wed May 07, 2008 1:25 pm ]
Post subject: 

That is a wonderful letter, containing exactly what Joey needs to be told and written by someone who has initially reaped the bitter fruits of similar action with her own daughters but eventually repaired the relationships. I hope that Joey will take everything Madge says to heart and act on her recommendations before it's too late. Given that Madge is the only 'mother' Joey herself remembers, perhaps she will.

Thanks Emma.

Author:  Jennie [ Wed May 07, 2008 1:34 pm ]
Post subject: 

Thank goodness Madge has learned a hard lesson, and is able to give Jo some really good advice. Perhaps Jo will see sense now.

I wish someone had told that sort of thing to my mother, because she never butted out. I had to dleiberately break all contact with her for my own sake.

Author:  Mona [ Wed May 07, 2008 2:02 pm ]
Post subject: 

Bravo Madge! Someone had to say that, and Madge is probably the only person Joey might hear saying it.

Thanks Emma!

Author:  Alison H [ Wed May 07, 2008 2:04 pm ]
Post subject: 

Bravo Madge - very well said!

Author:  PaulineS [ Wed May 07, 2008 3:22 pm ]
Post subject: 

Well done Madge and I am sure Mollie would say the same.

Author:  leahbelle [ Wed May 07, 2008 5:20 pm ]
Post subject: 

I'm glad Madge felt able to write that letter. I hope that Joey learns from the advice.

Author:  Jenefer [ Wed May 07, 2008 5:44 pm ]
Post subject: 

Good advice from Madge,

Author:  Lesley [ Wed May 07, 2008 5:53 pm ]
Post subject: 

A very honest response from Madge - and she is possibly the only one that Jo will listen to - I hope she does or she will lose Helena completely.


Thanks Emma.

Author:  LauraMcC [ Wed May 07, 2008 6:00 pm ]
Post subject: 

Well written, Madge! It's nice to see that she has learned from her previous mistakes with her own children - let's hope that Joey will do the same when her younger offspring want to leave the Platz (learn from her mistakes, I mean).

Author:  abbeybufo [ Wed May 07, 2008 7:34 pm ]
Post subject: 

Spot on Madge - let's hope Jo will listen :roll:

Thanks Emma

Author:  Pat [ Wed May 07, 2008 7:58 pm ]
Post subject: 

Good for Madge. Just hope Jo can hear what she's saying!

Author:  MaryR [ Thu May 08, 2008 11:49 am ]
Post subject: 

Unfortunately,my mother took my decision not to return home after university very much as Joey has done here. Not lack of love on the part of my mother, but a feeling that she had the right to dictate to me. A refusal to see I had grown up. Poor Joey - fighting for life to continue in its old routines. :cry: Madge told it as it was, though Madge herself only behaved as parents did in those days. After all, we were children until were 21 back then and had no right to marry etc without parental consent. So she would have seen her decision to take the girls with her as completely natural.

Thanks, Emma

Author:  Rosalin [ Thu May 08, 2008 12:47 pm ]
Post subject: 

I hope Joey listens to Madge and profits from Madge's mistakes. Interesting to see that Madge is referring to 'Helena' in her letter.

Thanks Emma.

Author:  JB [ Thu May 08, 2008 1:00 pm ]
Post subject: 

Interesting that Joey's letter starts by asking what she can do to make things better but still ends with her wanting to run Len's life. This is so real.

Author:  Emma A [ Thu May 08, 2008 1:07 pm ]
Post subject: 

Miss Margaret Maynard to Miss Helena Maynard

Edinburgh
5th May 196-

Dear Len,

I’m sorry, I’m too used to writing and calling you Len to change to Helena at present. I was rather surprised by your news, and even somewhat apprehensive. Not solely on your account, but on mine. Since we three are very alike, your change of heart is making me question, even more severely, my own commitment to my vocation. Of course I’ll support you if you have any difficulties with the family and Reg – you know your mind better than they do, after all. Con writes that Isaac is a decent young man, so I’m not worried about you (not that I think you’d fall in love with a waster, but I suppose it is possible). I'm sorry for Reg, of course, but then I guess you are too.

I’m sorry if this letter isn’t making much sense – I’m trying to snatch moments between lectures and seminars when I’m not trying to sleep. The workload this year seems to have doubled, and I’m desperately trying to fit everything in without screaming down the hall. And to think that I have another two years of this!

Anyway, back, if I may, to the subject which is taking up my mind at present: vocation. Skip this, if you’re not interested, since most of it will be philosophical ramblings on the nature of the divine call. I’d felt a pulling towards vocation from the age of about fifteen, but I think I embraced it so fervently, in the end, because I needed help to master my temper. The discipline involved in taking orders would, I thought, help to order my thoughts and help me to confine it to safe outlets. I still have a filthy temper, though I am getting better at controlling its outbreaks. Perhaps I’ll never manage it, but I do keep trying. At least I don’t try to blame it on my devil anymore! I was reassured by your commitment to Reg, because I thought that if you could make such a big decision at eighteen, so too could I.

I’m still not sure. I thought I would be, and I still feel a definite call, but whether it’s to join an order, or the less demanding call of being a doctor, I don’t yet know. Of course, I could still try to become a medical missionary without joining an order: what I’ve seen of the nuns here hasn’t been entirely positive, as you know. Or perhaps an organisation such as the Red Cross or Medecins Sans Frontieres would give me what I need. Now that I’ve lived away from home and school for a while, I feel – well, perhaps I really need Con for this – but like a shrivelled bud has suddenly swollen and is putting forth shy petals. If I can only work a bit harder, my soul will expand further and be open to God, and I will know exactly what He wants from me.

Until then, I won’t make any decision that would alter my future so completely. I hope Mamma and Papa will understand – though I think they might understand this better than they understand your love for Isaac, since it’s a choice they didn’t really want me to make.

I really must end here, since I’d like to post this now rather than wait for three days while it languishes in my bag for those last few paragraphs which never get written!

With much love,
Margot

Author:  Jennie [ Thu May 08, 2008 1:26 pm ]
Post subject: 

An honest letter from Margot. I don't think she's quite fully comprehended the reactions to Helena's decision, but she seems supportive, even though still a little self-obsessed.

Author:  PaulineS [ Thu May 08, 2008 1:58 pm ]
Post subject: 

Poor Len, her letter has started a chain of events she could not have expected.
Margot is being honest in the fact that Len's change of mind has made her own questionning seem more valid. At least she is understanding of Len and her decisions.

Author:  Alison H [ Thu May 08, 2008 2:08 pm ]
Post subject: 

Ah, that's an interesting twist.

Author:  abbeybufo [ Thu May 08, 2008 2:52 pm ]
Post subject: 

Interesting how much Margot had relied on the idea of Len's steadfastness.

Thanks Emma

Author:  Abi [ Thu May 08, 2008 4:01 pm ]
Post subject: 

Oooh, so many new letters since I last read! Love the one from Madge and I soooo hope Jo will take her advice! A very interesting letter from Margot. I'm impressed at how self-aware she is and hopefully this should make her decision better in the long run.

Thanks Emma!

Author:  LauraMcC [ Thu May 08, 2008 5:11 pm ]
Post subject: 

It's interesting that Margot is now wondering about becoming a nun. It just shows that nothing is certain, and just because you want one thing when you are 18, you may not want it a few years later. I wonder if Con is still going to write?

Anyway, thanks for this! :D

Author:  Jenefer [ Thu May 08, 2008 5:28 pm ]
Post subject: 

It sounds as if Margot is having doubts about her future. Perhaps some counselling would help.
Jack and Joey might get another surprise in the future...

Author:  leahbelle [ Thu May 08, 2008 5:30 pm ]
Post subject: 

That was a very honest letter from Margot. Thanks, Emma.

Author:  Liz K [ Thu May 08, 2008 7:05 pm ]
Post subject: 

Jenefer wrote:
It sounds as if Margot is having doubts about her future. Perhaps some counselling would help.
Jack and Joey might get another surprise in the future...



:shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock:

I bet Len never realised she'd set of a chain reaction. Now all we need is to hear from Con.

Author:  Lesley [ Thu May 08, 2008 9:06 pm ]
Post subject: 

Interesting that Margot is now having doubts - but was unable to express them until she saw that Len had changed her mind. Pleased that she was supportive.


Thanks Emma.

Author:  Tara [ Thu May 08, 2008 10:36 pm ]
Post subject: 

Have just caught up. Lovely letters from Isaac and his mother, what a smashing family they seem. Good, sound advice from Madge, too, and Joey will surely lsten to her, if anyone.

Slightly worried by Margot's response. It's very interesting that she's not sure about her future any longer and that she is so heavily influenced by Len, but her letter is very self-centred. I suppose that she can be excused if she's seeing her world turning upside down. These are all huge decisions to make at that age.

*gives fervent thanks for a mother who, although recently widowed, was willing to let her only child be free*

Author:  Emma A [ Fri May 09, 2008 2:14 pm ]
Post subject: 

Liz K wrote:
I bet Len never realised she'd set of a chain reaction. Now all we need is to hear from Con.

Con's letter was to Odette - she won't be writing to Len because they're living in the same college!

Author:  crystaltips [ Fri May 09, 2008 2:22 pm ]
Post subject: 

Have caught up on quite a few letters:
:poke: Joey for her letter to Madge (but giggled over the reference to Who's Who!)
(((Madge))) for her reply - glad she's able to see what her actions did to her relationship with Sybil & Josette.
Interesting one from Margot - very self centred but acknowledging that it's Helena's actions that are making her question her own.

Author:  Fiona Mc [ Fri May 09, 2008 3:09 pm ]
Post subject: 

Thanks Emma, Margot's letter was interesting. A mixture of self obsession and self awareness

Author:  MaryR [ Fri May 09, 2008 5:03 pm ]
Post subject: 

Margot's reaction is the reason so many orders now only take postulants who are older and have been to uni or out into the world for a while. How can one possibly be certain at 18 or 19? It's good she's doing some thinking.

Thanks, Emma

Author:  Mrs Redboots [ Fri May 09, 2008 7:32 pm ]
Post subject: 

Have just caught up with this! Brilliant stuff. Mothers do find it horribly difficult to let go - you either sound as though you don't care and want your fledgling to leave the nest NOW, or else you come across as all clingy and wanting to dictate their lives (like Joey - and she's probably been terribly brisk and exhibited the other behaviour in her time, too!).

And even when you've been left home the best part of 40 years, and married for almost 30 and have been an empty-nester for nearly 10.... even then your mother has fits of treating you as if you were 10 years old, even if she treats your daughter as a responsible, mature adult!

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Fri May 09, 2008 8:24 pm ]
Post subject: 

Mrs. Redboots wrote:

Quote:
And even when you've been left home the best part of 40 years, and married for almost 30 and have been an empty-nester for nearly 10.... even then your mother has fits of treating you as if you were 10 years old, even if she treats your daughter as a responsible, mature adult!


Too true, too true - only in my case it was my father who was the 'culprit' - I was lucky if I could breathe without him wanting to know where I was or what I was doing!! It always used to make my then teenaged offspring want to laugh - fortunately they managed not to do so in front of them.

Author:  Emma A [ Mon May 12, 2008 12:10 pm ]
Post subject: 

Dr John Maynard to Miss Helena Maynard

Gornetz San
15th May 196-

My dear,

Apologies in advance that this will be a short letter; it’s just to let you know about our plans for your graduation. We’ll take the boat-train via Calais to London, stay there for a few days, then come on to Oxford on the day of your graduation: I think that getting a place to stay in the town will be well-nigh impossible, which is why we’ve decided to travel this way. We plan to catch an early train and be with you mid-morning. Does this sound reasonable? Would you like to suggest a place to have lunch? Will Isaac and his parents be in Oxford for his own degree-taking, and if so, do you think they would like to join us for lunch? I think they are probably as eager to meet us as we are to meet them.

Then we’ll return to London in the evening and go on to the Russells at Llan-y-penllan for a few more days. It seems as though we haven’t seen them in ages, and it will be good to catch up with their news. I really should have a good talk with Jem anyway about the San, and this makes a good opportunity. That should give you enough time to go down to the Quadrant to leave your trunk, and come back with us. You are still planning to return home, I hope - do let me know and I will confirm the reservations I've made for your travel. The boys won’t be breaking up until July, and it seems a shame not to wait for them, but I can’t take much time off – as you know – and have to be back on the Platz soon.

We’re very much looking forward to seeing you both again, and to meeting Isaac. I will confirm all the arrangements with you when you have definite dates and times.

Until then, God bless.

Love from,
Papa

Author:  roversgirl [ Mon May 12, 2008 12:25 pm ]
Post subject: 

Thanks for the update - nice to hear that they want to lunch with Isaac and his family. :)

Author:  PaulineS [ Mon May 12, 2008 12:37 pm ]
Post subject: 

Jack's letter is a positive sign. Hope they can all meet.

Author:  Rosalin [ Mon May 12, 2008 1:43 pm ]
Post subject: 

Nice letter from Jack. Hope they all manage a successful meeting.

Thanks Emma.

Author:  ibarhis [ Mon May 12, 2008 2:00 pm ]
Post subject: 

I love the way the differing personalities shine through.

Author:  crystaltips [ Mon May 12, 2008 2:04 pm ]
Post subject: 

A very positive letter from Jack.
Thanks, Emma

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Mon May 12, 2008 2:16 pm ]
Post subject: 

A very positive letter from Jack - sticking strictly to practicalities, but his sincerity also comes through.

Author:  Jennie [ Mon May 12, 2008 2:19 pm ]
Post subject: 

Good, I like that. Jack has obviously tried to minimise the time that Jo will have to nag Helena and generally upset her.

Author:  abbeybufo [ Mon May 12, 2008 2:20 pm ]
Post subject: 

Thanks Emma - interesting letter from Jack - is he assuming too much in thinking Len will be going home with them? Trying to remember earlier arrangements :? . . . but good to know he [at least :wink: ] is keen to meet Isaac's parents.

*off to read some of the earlier letters again*

Author:  Alison H [ Mon May 12, 2008 3:56 pm ]
Post subject: 

Thanks Emma :D .

Author:  leahbelle [ Mon May 12, 2008 5:31 pm ]
Post subject: 

Glad that Jack seems keen to meet Isaac's parents. Thanks!

Author:  Lesley [ Mon May 12, 2008 6:39 pm ]
Post subject: 

Much nicer letter from Jack.


Thanks Emma.

Author:  Celia [ Mon May 12, 2008 8:06 pm ]
Post subject: 

Yes, a nice positive letter from Jack.
I agree with Jennie, hopefully Jo will not get much/any time alone with
with her eldest daughter. :wink:

Thanks Emma

Author:  Tara [ Mon May 12, 2008 11:39 pm ]
Post subject: 

Thanks, Emma, a lovely, positive missive from Jack. I wonder if Helena will go home with them??

Author:  Identity Hunt [ Tue May 13, 2008 7:44 pm ]
Post subject: 

These letters have been absolutely riveting, and so true to their individual characters !

I am glad Jack is being so loving and conciliatory; I just hope Joey doesn't blow it all when they do finally meet up with Helena , and then with Isaac's family.

I still feel so very sorry for Reg, though.....please let him meet someone nice and write a happy letter to Helena in due course !

Author:  JayB [ Tue May 13, 2008 8:33 pm ]
Post subject: 

Con will be there too at graduation to help keep Joey in line. Given her habit of saying what she thinks, I'm sure she won't hesitate to speak up if she thinks it' s necessary.

Joey has been queen of her own little world on the Platz for so long, it will be a shock for her to meet people who don't know who she is, and don't care!

Author:  Emma A [ Wed May 14, 2008 12:52 pm ]
Post subject: 

Miss Helena Maynard to Miss Theodora Grantley

Oxford
16th May 196-

Dear Teddy,

Many thanks for your letter, and apologies that it has taken me so long to reply. I started a lot of family trouble which I hadn’t intended, and so there have been letters flying between here and Switzerland, as well as telephone calls which must have cost the parents the earth. And of course there has been work to do, as well, since they don’t let you slack round here!

I hope your mother is better: I know you two don’t get along, but I guess you would miss her. I certainly would mine, though our relationship has been somewhat fraught with difficulty lately – more of that later. When does her doctor expect her to be able to come home? It’s a shame that her illness has been so disruptive for you, but one couldn’t do anything but what you have done – hopefully your tutor will be understanding, now that you’ve returned to your studies.

I’m glad that you’re finding law interesting – are you still planning to be called to the Bar? or do you intend to specialise? You haven’t written much about your plans for the future, but perhaps it feels rather fluid and uncertain at present. Anyway, Isaac will be starting in chambers next term and I’m sure he’d be able to give you advice should you want it.

I should explain that I have finally decided that I can’t marry Reg. I’m not entirely sure, now, why I agreed to the engagement. Yes, I was in love, but I certainly wasn’t ready to make that commitment, even though I thought I was. Now that I’ve had a chance to live away from school and the Platz for a while, and meet so many more people (though I guess you, in London, and at UCL, are meeting with even more unlikely people!), I realised that what I felt for Reg was not sufficient for marriage, and that I couldn’t bear to return to the Platz after my taste of liberty. Con saw it coming a long time ago, though of course, being Con, she said nothing. It’s just that now, looking back, I see that some of her comments were trying to make me reconsider my decisions. Margot has been rather oblivious. It’s different for her, obviously, in Edinburgh, and occupied with studies and voluntary work – when she was at home during the summer, she had got awfully thin – but she’s never been particularly perceptive about other people, even me, as you know. I've noticed us growing apart in the past year or so, which saddens me even though I think it inevitable.

Having escaped marriage to Reg (though that sounds more extreme than I mean) I’m now in no hurry to engage myself again, though Isaac and I have agreed that we will be married at some point in the future. I’m not sure yet how we’ll manage the details of it, and I’m rather shying away from discussion at present, being content with living in the here and now for a change.

Mamma was very upset, when she heard the news, and wrote me a horrible letter; though she later calmed down and wrote in more reasoned vein. Still, even in that she sounded jolly disappointed, and I almost dread her coming to graduation if she’s going to be unpleasant about my saying no to Reg and meeting Isaac. Papa has been more reasonable, though he still sounds a little shocked and unsure now about how to address me, and what he should be saying and thinking. He at least is now trying to treat me as an adult, who is (relatively) mature and able to make her own decisions. Mamma, I fear, is finding it much harder to let me go. From what she has written, I am more grateful for my decision, since – though I love her dearly – I would not like to have her popping in and out of my house every day, and making pointed comments about when could she expect some grandchildren!

Oh, that sounds harsh, and I don’t mean it to. It’s just that we used to be such great friends, and now she’s all mother, and I don’t like it.

I had a lovely letter from Isaac’s mother, Miriam, who welcomed me to the family (though with reservations – understandably, since I’ve only met her briefly, and none of the rest of his family). She and Mr Mendel (does one address a High Court judge as Mr? I keep meaning to ask Isaac, but there are other, more interesting things to discuss with him than how to style his father!) are also planning to come to graduation, and may well meet with my parents – though I’m not sure if we’ll graduate on the same day. We haven’t yet been given the details.

I had better close here, since this letter is already quite long enough, and hope that you are well and happy.

With love from
Helena

Author:  Mrs Redboots [ Wed May 14, 2008 1:06 pm ]
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Thanks, Emma - I'm really enjoying this series.

Author:  Jennie [ Wed May 14, 2008 1:27 pm ]
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I'm glad she could tell Ted Grantly about how she feels. I bet Ted backs her in her decisison not to marry Reg.

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Wed May 14, 2008 2:05 pm ]
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That is a wonderful example of how friends can explain things to one another in a truthful and rational way, and I've no doubt Len feels secure that Ted will accept her explanations and wish her luck in the future. The telling is easier between two friends than between Len and her parents, but that is inevitable - as are Len's changing feelings once she left the shelter of home and school.

Thanks, Emma.

Author:  Sal [ Wed May 14, 2008 4:21 pm ]
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This is a great series of letters, I think you portray Len very realistically as well as the responces of those around her. Thanks Emma

Author:  PaulineS [ Wed May 14, 2008 5:18 pm ]
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thanks for the new letter. Len shows real insght her to her families feeelings. Hope Madge writes with her support to Len after hearing from Jo.

Author:  Alison H [ Wed May 14, 2008 5:32 pm ]
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That was a lovely letter. Worried about Margot, though.

Author:  roversgirl [ Wed May 14, 2008 7:07 pm ]
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Thanks for a new letter - Hope Margot is ok!

Author:  Lesley [ Wed May 14, 2008 8:18 pm ]
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Pleased Len could speak to her friend so frankly - when did Ted become Teddy though? Pity Ted has had to interrupt her studies to care for her mother - especially as her mother never did anything for her.


Thanks Emma.

Author:  abbeybufo [ Wed May 14, 2008 8:49 pm ]
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Interesting to see Len writing to someone outside the family, so she can get some perspective and doesn't need to be defensive.

Really enjoying these letters, Emma - thanks :D

Author:  Fiona Mc [ Wed May 14, 2008 10:37 pm ]
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Glad to see Len feelings. It is true that sometimes or more usually you can be more honest with friends than parents and glad she has Ted to talk with

Author:  crystaltips [ Wed May 14, 2008 11:35 pm ]
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I like this letter. Helena is so positive & not letting her mother's opinions influencing her - she clearly sees that her relationship with Joey is very definately mother/daughter at this point.
*Loved the bit about Joey popping in & out with comments about g.children :lol: :lol:*

It's a bit sad that Helena sees her & Margot drifting apart but it's not surprising.

Hope that Ted's mother is OK & that she can continue with her studies.
Thanks, Emma

Author:  Emma A [ Thu May 15, 2008 7:16 pm ]
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Miss Theodora Grantley to Miss Helena Maynard

London
18th May 196-

Dear Helena,

I meant to start this letter with the usual polite enquiries about your health, but it’s obvious from your letter that you’re feeling fighting fit – besides, I was so busy jumping up and down when I read that you’d given Dr Entwhistle his congé, that I must have given myself some sort of brain injury! I am so glad you’ve decided this, because you would have been desperately unhappy if you’d gone ahead with it – even discounting Isaac’s place in the scheme of things. You’re gradually learning to be a bit more selfish, and that’s a good thing, mark you, since you’re finally starting to give your own feelings precedence over other people’s.

So it’s never pleasant to feel that one has hurt someone else, but better now than later, and better Dr E. than you. I was envisaging the sort of Somerset Maugham scenario where you would marry Dr E. and discover that you were unsuited and because of your sense of honour and unselfishness, would get more and more unhappy. So I am glad I won’t have to consider those terrible ideas now. How many more years older is he than you? I’m not sure that these May-December matches are always a good idea (well, perhaps May-October!) – Father was a good deal older than Mother, and I think their relationship was rather soured by that, as well as by their other problems.

I didn’t say anything before now, because – well, you’d decided, and the last thing anyone wants to hear when they’ve made up their mind about something is for someone else to criticise the decision. So I am pleased (if you hadn’t already guessed!) that you’ve changed your mind.

So when, by the way, did you decide that Isaac was the one? I had detected the tiniest hint of warmer feelings for him than you were actually admitting in writing, given that the frequency with which you mentioned him went up from about once every two letters to three in one! I am glad that he feels the same about you – he sounds just the right sort of man for you. Lucky him to have a place already – but you’re right, I still don’t feel able to decide my future yet, not when Mother’s health is so precarious at present. I’m determined that I shan’t sacrifice my career, but it is difficult to know what to do for the best – she doesn’t really have any other family apart from me – my brothers are miles away. Perhaps I could ask Cousin May for advice – I know she had to deal with Margaret’s long illness – and she’s jolly practical, too.

By reading intensively (and I really mean that) I managed to keep up with the lectures while I was with Mother, but it did mean carting around great legal tomes, and having Mother observe (when she was finally in a condition to do so) that all this studying was so “unladylike”. I’m really glad that they’ve stopped doing the Season now, because I would have had to argue much more forcefully about university if she’d had her heart set on Presenting me. Anyway, can you really see me as a deb? I had my hair cut really short a couple of weeks ago – it suits me, but golly, did I get an earful from Mother about “woman’s crowning glory”.

It’s a shame that your mother isn’t being very understanding – I guess it’s been a shock to her. I still cherish fond memories of that first day when she let me know that nothing would be held against me at the Chalet School for the mad things I’d done previously. I’m sure that her feeling of disappointment will only be temporary, and she’ll accept your decisions wholeheartedly. If she does try to say anything unpleasantly “mother-like”, do try to ignore it – she does at least love you dearly.

I’m sorry to hear about Margot – we’ve never been particular friends, but I hope she is keeping fit and well. Conversely, I have filled out a bit since schooldays, though I’m still not what anyone would call fat: in fact, according to Max, I am getting “quite attractive”. Not that I shall let this faint praise go to my head, since he also called me, in the same sentence, “you funny little dark thing”. With Max that might actually be the greater compliment.

Anyway, I’ve wandered quite far from my original intention – when do you start at St Catherine’s? My miraculous landlady is intending to rent out the second room for a very reasonable sum – Bloomsbury is convenient for almost everywhere, and it would be great fun to share with you. Mrs C will take you like a shot with a recommendation from me, so do let me know if you need a place to live.

Cripes! I’ve just seen the time, and I must sign off now or I’ll be late.

With love from
Teddy

Author:  PaulineS [ Thu May 15, 2008 8:42 pm ]
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Emma Thank you, glad Teddy is pleased for Helena and helps her to accept the Joey could round as well and that she loves Helena. She she Jo in a different way from her own relationship with her mother.

Author:  Lesley [ Thu May 15, 2008 9:03 pm ]
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Lovely letter from Ted - though if I were her I'd have carted her mother off to a nursing home and left her! :lol: Ted's comment that at least Joey loves Len was very sad.


Thanks Emma

Author:  LauraMcC [ Thu May 15, 2008 9:31 pm ]
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Thank you for the additional letters.

I loved this line especially:



Quote:
I meant to start this letter with the usual polite enquiries about your health, but it’s obvious from your letter that you’re feeling fighting fit – besides, I was so busy jumping up and down when I read that you’d given Dr Entwhistle his congé, that I must have given myself some sort of brain injury!


as it's interesting to see that Ted, and presumably Len's other friends, were never keen on the guy! I can just imagine them, in the Prefects' Room, discussing her future, and her prospective marriage. :D

It's good to see that she's so supportive of Len's decision.

Author:  Luisa [ Thu May 15, 2008 9:45 pm ]
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Just wanted to say - I've always loved novels in letter form, and this is splendid, wonderful characterisation and change of style.
Thank you, and keep the letters coming!

Author:  roversgirl [ Thu May 15, 2008 9:47 pm ]
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Lovely letter - Thanks :)

Author:  Alison H [ Thu May 15, 2008 9:53 pm ]
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Great letter from Ted!

It's never occurred to me before, but what a shame that Len never discussed the Reg situation with Ted at school when she was being pressurised into making a quick decision. Talking it over with a friend might have been exactly what she needed to do.

Thanks Emma :D .

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Thu May 15, 2008 9:54 pm ]
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That was another lovely letter, so full of common sense and objectivity, as well as understanding of Helena's situation. I did find Ted's comments on her own situation rather sad, and hope that she will manage to continue her studies notwithstanding.

Thanks, Emma.

Author:  abbeybufo [ Thu May 15, 2008 11:06 pm ]
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Loved this letter from Ted - very perceptive - and what fun for Len if she can flat-share with a friend as good and understanding as Ted has been since schooldays :D

Thanks Emma

Author:  Celia [ Thu May 15, 2008 11:23 pm ]
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Thanks Emma,
Sharing the same digs sounds a really good idea as they will be more able to support each other, and help their friendship to blossom again.

Author:  Ruth B [ Thu May 15, 2008 11:54 pm ]
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A stonkingly good letter from Ted, thank you!

The comment about Joey was so poignant.

BTW, if anyone would like to write a spin off of Ted as a Deb that would be so very very fab!

Author:  Mona [ Fri May 16, 2008 7:48 am ]
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Wonderful letter from Ted, thanks Emma!

*Wonders what Ros Lilley might have to say*

Author:  Cath V-P [ Fri May 16, 2008 8:15 am ]
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That's a splendid letter from Ted - so balanced, even in her obvious relief that Helena has reviewed the situation with Reg. And her comment about Joey is a useful reminder that Joey has helped and befriended a number of people in the past when they needed it, even though her reaction to Len's news was less than supportive.

Author:  Caroline [ Fri May 16, 2008 10:21 am ]
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That's brilliant, Emma - I love it.

Can we hear from Rosamund as well - I'd love to know what she thinks and where she is in her life... For some reason, I'm imagining her married and gardening somewhere in southern England - and maybe having a slightly more conventional view on Len's jilting of Reg than some of the other Len's-age-correspondants. Don't know why!

:D :D

Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sat May 17, 2008 1:00 am ]
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That was a lovely letter from Ted

Author:  MaryR [ Sun May 18, 2008 4:24 pm ]
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Thank you, Emma, these letters continue to fascinate me. :D

Author:  Emerence [ Mon May 19, 2008 1:25 am ]
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These letters are really good. I hadn't really gotten into any letters stories before, but these are very insightful and interesting. :D

Author:  Emma A [ Mon May 19, 2008 5:53 pm ]
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Mrs John Maynard to Lady Russell

Freudesheim
May 12th, 196-

Dearest Madge,

Your letter shocked me. Why did you never tell me this at the time? I had always thought that Sybil and Josette looked forward to visiting Australia, and that there was no question of you “dragging them out” there – the fact that they chose to marry Australians seems to belie that. I’m not surprised that you were disappointed – how could they possibly know whether they were right to become engaged after so short a time?

Anyway, I do take your point that they resented your comments, and that you were made to feel at fault. While I’m sure that you are grateful that contact has been restored, I can’t help thinking that the breach was not solely your fault, as you imply. Sybil, in particular, has always been a selfish creature, but perhaps marriage has mellowed her a little.

Len’s behaviour does worry me. She seems to “discuss” everything with Isaac, and I’m concerned that the decisions are his, merely told through her mouth. I’m afraid that when she leaves the Platz after her brief trip home at the end of June, she’ll be lost to me. I will try to be more supportive, but when she doesn’t ask me for support, then how can I let her know, without seeming to be pushy or controlling?

I have not yet replied to her last letter, and am hoping that inspiration will come to me soon. This is confusing me since I have only just finished correcting proofs for my latest book, which will be published in October, and Mr Abbott has a new contract to negotiate for me, because my current contract expired with this book. I’m considering a new school story, but at present my ideas have dried up with concern about Len – and Reg, who is coping quite manfully with his rejection. We haven’t heard a word of reproach against Len – and about my own situation.

Prepare yourself for a surprise, my dear – I’m pregnant again. To be honest, neither Jack nor I wanted another child, and we’d been taking measures to mitigate against the possibility. Despite our care, this has happened, and I’m both pleased and rather dreading the event. I’m about three months along – confirmed a couple of days ago – and having only mild bouts of sickness in the mornings so far. We’d thought, since Geoff and Phil, that, despite my jokes about wanting quads, that’s all it would be. So far Phil Graves thinks that it’s only a singleton, which relieves me. I’m not sure that we could cope with another set of twins – and Anna and Rosli would probably give notice! Besides, Jack has been muttering lately about having some time to ourselves and that he’s old enough to want to spoil his grandchildren rather than coping with his own offspring.

I guess that Mollie was just as surprised when she found she was expecting Daphne, though there was even bigger gap between Daphne and Maeve and Maurice. We haven’t told the children yet, so I’d appreciate it if you didn’t mention this to anyone else – of course, you’ll let Jem know, and I shall be writing to Mollie, and I shall tell the staff at the School, too.

It seems strange to realise that I could have been giving birth at about the same time as Len was getting married – though that possibility is now remoter than ever. I do hope that they are being sensible – I never explained to Len or the others about the so-called “facts of life”, just tried to ensure that they would respect the teachings of the Church when it came to boyfriends. It’s such a very awkward thing to bring up with your daughters, don’t you think?

We’re planning to come over to England for Len and con’s graduation, which is at the end of June. We’re hoping to meet with Isaac and his parents, as you suggested, and spend a couple of days in London. We’d very much like to come on to you in Wales for a few days, while Len deposits her trunk at the Quadrant. You need not worry that we’re bringing all the children – they’ll all be still at school, apart from Claire, and Rosli and Anna are more than capable guardians in our absence. I’m very much looking forward to the visit, as I’m sure you understand. If only I can be sure that Len is doing the right thing – surely I’ll know if I meet Isaac?

I do hope the family is well, and that you’re enjoying life in Wales.

Fondly yours,
Jo

Author:  JayB [ Mon May 19, 2008 6:47 pm ]
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Well, I suppose Joey's hormones are all over the place at the moment, and if she'd suspected she was pregnant before she had Helena's first letter, it must have come as a blow to realise she wouldn't have her help and support during what will be a difficult time for her. So I suppose that does mitigate her behaviour towards Helena somewhat.

But there is only one word for her attitude to Sybil - b****!

Looking forward to the next twist in the tale!

Author:  Lesley [ Mon May 19, 2008 6:49 pm ]
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Now why did Jo have to make that nasty dig at Sybil? She's never forgiven her for what she did at age 8, has she? And how can she say she knew nothing about the fact that Josette didn't want to go to Australia - she had tried to persuade Madge to let Josette attend St Mildreds.

Not particularly convinced about Joey here - she doesn't seem to see anything except her own (and Reg's) disappointment.

Thanks Emma.

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Mon May 19, 2008 6:56 pm ]
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Hormonal imbalance or not, Joey is definitely still making heavy weather of Len's changed intentions. As for her dig at Sybil - that was uncalled for, too.

But it *is* most interesting to see how these letters fit together. Thanks, Emma- I'm really enjoying this.

Author:  wheelchairprincess [ Mon May 19, 2008 7:32 pm ]
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Joey is really, really very annoying in this. But I love Madge and can't wait to read her reply!

Thanks Emma

Author:  PaulineS [ Mon May 19, 2008 7:44 pm ]
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jo needs to grow up here. She really is biased about Sybil, and is basing her ideas on Sybil as a very young child and not as the girl she knew before Sybil went to Australia.

Author:  abbeybufo [ Mon May 19, 2008 8:00 pm ]
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:poke: Jo

Thanks Emma

Author:  Jennie [ Mon May 19, 2008 8:40 pm ]
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Thanks, Emma. Jo is really a selfish bitch here, isn't she? She's still thinking more about herself and her own happiness than about Helena. And why does she assume that Helena is having a sexual relationship with Isaac? Dirty-minded old harridan!

And just what does she think Helana has been doing for all these years at university? Why is Isaac doing Helena's thinking for her? Because Jo can't imagine her daughters becoming independent, and thinking for themselves instead of having her do the thinking for them?

Grr! She hasn't taken in what Madge tried to tell her, has she?

Author:  Alison H [ Mon May 19, 2008 9:10 pm ]
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Oh dear! There was no need for that dig at Sybil, and how dare she suggest that Len isn't capable of forming her own ideas about things? And she really should have explained "things" to Len, however awkward it might have been, especially given that she'd been expecting Len to get married shortly.

Author:  jennifer [ Tue May 20, 2008 3:45 am ]
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I think the problem is that Joey expected Len to parrot Joey's ideas and thoughts, and the thought of her going to someone else as her first choice for discussion is alien to her.

Author:  Mona [ Tue May 20, 2008 7:11 am ]
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Joey really isn't considering anyone but herself here, is she? Oh dear. Maybe a sharp reply from Madge will help her come to her common or garden senses.

Author:  MHE [ Tue May 20, 2008 9:40 am ]
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I'm really enjoying these letters and I agree with all the previous posts especially about Joey!!!

Author:  Ruth B [ Tue May 20, 2008 10:27 am ]
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Quote:
Len’s behaviour does worry me. She seems to “discuss” everything with Isaac, and I’m concerned that the decisions are his, merely told through her mouth.


This shows an astonishing lack of self awareness both about the nature of her own marriage and what a relationship should consist of. Of course Len discusses everything with Isaac! :roll:

Author:  Emma A [ Tue May 20, 2008 1:32 pm ]
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Miss Helena Maynard to Miss Theodora Grantley

Oxford
25th May 196-

Dear Teddy,

Rent a room in that fabulous house of yours? Of course I’d love to! Please let Mrs Christiansen know that I would very much like to rent her second room – I assume that gentlemen callers will be allowed?

Thank-you for your letter, though: it meant a great deal to have you be so happy for me, and also to remind me how loving and understanding Mamma is, usually. I’m sure she will come round, and wish me only the best. I guess she is taking time getting used to the idea.

Is anything going on between you and Max that I should know about? You do seem to have been spending a great deal of time together. I thought you liked Lucas Black. That being said, you seem not to have mentioned him in your latest letters. I apologise if there’s something there that you’d rather not talk about, but do let me know if you’d like to have a friendly chat: I’m never so busy with my own life that I can’t spare the time to listen to you or reply to your letters.

It’s only three weeks now before Finals: a prospect which fills me with some trepidation. I have started revising, but they’re still making us go to lectures: I have my last seminar with Dr. Whitehouse a week for exams start, mainly, I think, so she can give us last-minute advice. The exams are actually being set by Prof. Lombard of Merton and Dr. Franchot of Christ Church – I have attended their lectures, so I don’t think there will be anything in the exams that is truly horrifying. Of course, I shall review the old exam papers, but we’ve been warned that there is no guarantee that any of them will appear again this year. It’s quite startling to realise that we will be sitting tests based on three years’ work – quite unlike school, with termly reports and annual examinations. In all honesty I don’t think I’ll get a First: I realised that when I arrived at Oxford. I was regarded as one of the school’s brightest hopes: at Shrewsbury, I was just one of many bright girls. I work hard, but I don’t think I have the original mind required to produce really first-class work. Con does, I think.

We shall see. At least they don’t keep you waiting for results: the last exam is on Wednesday, and the results are posted up on Friday of the same week.

I’ve spoken to Papa, and discussed it with Isaac: and will probably telephone to you if Mrs Christiansen is willing to take me on. I was originally planning to take my trunk down to The Quadrant and return with the parents to the Platz for a fortnight before returning to London to start my stint at St Catherine’s. If I can leave my trunk at your place, that would be even better, though I may still go down to Devon anyway: I haven’t seen the cousins in a while.

Writing to your cousin May would be a good plan – she’s known your mother for a long time, and would be able to give you sensible advice. I’m not sure what I would do if Mamma was in the same position: but then, I do have lots of family, so the burden of her care would not be on me alone. I do feel for you, you never having been very close to your mother, and not having family that you can rely on. Can your brothers help at all? I’m surprised that neither of them made the trip to see her, particularly when she was first taken ill and you weren’t sure if she would survive. I suppose all families are different, and I certainly don’t mean to imply that ours is any better than anyone else’s! It’s certainly very numerous, what with eleven of us, plus wards like Marie-Claire; aunts and uncles, and several cousins and their families!

It’s now different for us than it was for our mothers: careers are now possible in fields other than nursing and teaching. Please don’t give up your plans for anything less than something really serious – you’ve worked so hard for the chance.

Please let me know as soon as possible about the room.

With love from
Helena

Author:  Alison H [ Tue May 20, 2008 2:02 pm ]
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Another lovely letter from Len - thanks Emma.

Author:  Jennie [ Tue May 20, 2008 2:24 pm ]
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What I'm really waiting for is Madge's second letter to Jo.

Author:  ibarhis [ Tue May 20, 2008 2:31 pm ]
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Jennie wrote:
What I'm really waiting for is Madge's second letter to Jo.


It's a shame we probably won't see her draft which, being Madge, I'm sure won't get sent by mistake.

Author:  Mona [ Tue May 20, 2008 2:46 pm ]
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Jennie wrote:
What I'm really waiting for is Madge's second letter to Jo.

Me too!

Author:  PaulineS [ Tue May 20, 2008 3:01 pm ]
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Glad Len has somewhere to stay in London. Interesting that Len said girls have more opportunities than teaching and nursing and she does not memtion wife and mother as an opportunity.

Author:  crystaltips [ Tue May 20, 2008 3:16 pm ]
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Three letters to catch up on.
Loved Teddy's letter (who Max?) & Helena's reply. Glad that the 2 of them are going to be sharing digs - I think that they will be able to help each other such a lot (Teddy's brothers sound about as selfish as Jo!)

Jo's letter - oh dear, she just could not resist the dig at poor Sybil. Hope Madge gives her what for over it! As for the rest, it's still all me..me..me. And another baby.......words fail me :shock: (at last you say! :D)

Author:  Abi [ Tue May 20, 2008 3:20 pm ]
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Poor Len, this must be such a stressful time for her. I hope that she and Joey might be able to sort things out face to face.

Hope that Madge will be able to drum some sense into her sister!

Author:  Lesley [ Tue May 20, 2008 4:31 pm ]
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Lovely letter from Helena to Ted - and interesting what she says about not thinking she will get a First but feels Con will.


Thanks Emma.

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Tue May 20, 2008 6:12 pm ]
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That is a lovely letter from Helena - and I agree that she and Teddy will do very well sharing accommodation in London.

Thanks, Emma

Author:  Emma A [ Tue May 20, 2008 6:30 pm ]
Post subject: 

Since several of you wanted to read Madge's reply, here it is...

Lady Russell to Mrs John Maynard

Llan-y-penllan
May 19th, 196-

Dear Jo,

You of all people should know that I generally find it easy to keep my temper, but your letter, received yesterday, annoyed me so much that I had to go for a long walk to calm down. For once and for all, stop blaming Sybil for Josette’s accident. It’s long gone and forgiven, and you should do so as well. Our eldest daughter has shown in the subsequent years all the good qualities for which I love and value her: and which, if you weren’t so obsessed by things that happened in the past, you too would value her.

I’m not sure that you have really taken in what I wrote to you. Perhaps you are too emotional at present – and I must say, expecting again, Jo? I’m happy for you, of course, but considerably surprised, as you would expect. I’m glad for your sake that Phil Graves thinks that it’s not another set of twins! And as for your quads remark – well, that joke was getting very old, and not very funny even when it was new.

Forgive my scratchiness, Jo: you do continue to worry me, even though I try not to. You must take better care of yourself, instead of leaving it all to Jack or the triplets. Jack is quite right to say that he’d like some time with you alone – certainly Jem and I have found these quiet times alone at home very comfortable. Because he’s working fewer hours now, we’re able to spend more time together, and rediscovering the things about each other that we first fell in love with. I love my children dearly, but it is heaven when they aren’t around, and I don’t have to be a mother for a while!

I am looking forward to seeing you and Jack in June, but be prepared, Jo, for a talking to. You must stop thinking of the triplets as babies to be protected, mothered and smothered. They are all twenty-one now, and legally adult, and you should have let them go long since. They will come to you for comfort when they need it, but you should accept that, for Helena, Isaac is now her first choice of confidant and helper. Of course she will discuss things with him: didn’t you do so with Jack? Why should you suppose that she has no opinions apart from his? Helena is a thinking, reasoning, intelligent young woman, even if she is in love. Or are you only concerned because the opinion differs from yours? If you write in the same vein to her, then you will drive her away, because all I read in your letter was selfishness, Jo.

Your remark that you hope Helena and Isaac are “being sensible” shocked me. Perhaps not in the way you think, but because you even think that they might not, and because you haven’t bothered to explain to them the so-called “facts of life”. When were you planning to tell Helena what she might expect on her wedding night? On the day itself? Or were you going to leave that to Reg? However embarrassing or uncomfortable the thought makes you feel, you should discuss the physical aspects of marriage with all your daughters when they are at an age to understand. If you don’t warn them, they run the risk of believing all sorts of rubbish told by friends who have themselves only the sketchiest idea of what is meant to or can happen between a man and a woman. And do you think Helena has so little sense of her own self-worth and dignity that she would engage in an intimate relationship with a man outside the bonds of marriage? Really, Jo, you are very hard on your own daughter!

Have you ever considered moving away from the Platz? Jem wants to discuss the future of the San with Jack when you come, now that new drugs are making the treatment of TB in sanatoria redundant. If there’s no requirement for the place to be high in the mountains, perhaps we could consider moving the place down to Interlaken or one of the bigger towns, like Lausanne or Fribourg. You’d have a much wider society to associate with, and wouldn’t be so dependent on the School and San for company.

Hilda would welcome the chance to move the School, too, so that the girls have a chance to experience more regular cultural activities, such as concerts, and visits to museums and art galleries which presently only happen on half-term excursions. I’m very much minded to look around for new premises in a less isolated place: it’s becoming more and more difficult to recruit new staff, given the lack of amenities and places to visit – the teaching staff can’t spend all their time marking prep and supervising the girls without some life away from the place, and it would make it easier to have live-out domestic staff, too. I’d like to make it more like we had in Tyrol, where trips to Spartz and Innsbruck were not a rare treat.

Anyway, I’d like to discuss these proposals with you when you visit – you see a great deal of the teaching staff, and therefore may have more of an idea about how they’d take such a move. Hilda herself is in favour, as is Nell Wilson.

Now, please try to take in what I’ve said, and write to Helena – don’t say anything about how disappointed you are, or voice any of your concerns. Just write that you are happy for her, that you look forward to meeting Isaac and his family, and give her best wishes for the exams. Even if it’s not wholly true, you will reassure Helena, at least.

With love from your exasperated sister,
Madge

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Tue May 20, 2008 6:59 pm ]
Post subject: 

Well, Madge may feel 'the exasperated sister', but she has definitely given Jo a huge amount to ponder, quite apart from the rebuke over her attitude to Sybil! Yes, she has expressed herself freely and, I would add, somewhat bluntly, over many matters there, but despite the exasperation, it all comes directly from the heart of the person who was both sister and mother to Jo, and who has always had Jo's best interests at heart. I hope that Jo will accept the many messages in good faith, and take heed. And I did like Madge's way of 'sweetening' her pills by dangling the carrot of consulting Jo on how she thinks the staff might feel at the prospect of moving the school to a new location - thus still assuring Jo that her opinion *does* count for something.

Thank you Emma.

Author:  LauraMcC [ Tue May 20, 2008 8:10 pm ]
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That's a very sensible letter from Madge, and I hope that her bluntness gets through to Jo. I only hopes that she listens to the advice, although perhaps a 'facts of life' talk will be a little too late, given that she is now 21, and has probably been told by somebody at Oxford. Of course, Jo should have started treating the triplets as adults a while ago, but that's another story!

I look forward to reading any other letters.

Author:  JayB [ Tue May 20, 2008 8:32 pm ]
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I expect Jo will just complain about Madge having already discussed moving the school with Hilda and Nell, without saying anything to her!

But Madge's letter is full things that Jo needs to think about. Life is changing all round her, and she needs to think about the future for herself and her family.

Author:  Clare [ Tue May 20, 2008 8:54 pm ]
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I agree that Madge's letter will give Jo a lot to think about, but will she let her obsession with the school oerwhelm all of the other advice? I can see her reading it and just focussing on the fact Madge and Hilda feel the school is too isolated.

Absolutely fascinating series Emma - thank you so much for this!

Author:  abbeybufo [ Tue May 20, 2008 9:10 pm ]
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Great letter from Madge, Emma - lots of sensible advice along with the understandable exasperation and well-deserved scolding :D

Author:  Lesley [ Tue May 20, 2008 9:12 pm ]
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Pleased with the letter from Madge and think it says all that Jo needs to hear - but will she take it in? I hope so.


Thanks Emma.

Author:  Alison H [ Tue May 20, 2008 10:33 pm ]
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Brilliant!

Just hope Joey takes some notice of all that!

Author:  Anjali [ Wed May 21, 2008 1:27 am ]
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That was a great letter, Emma - Madge sounds like she's from a younger generation than Jo with her outdated ideas! I really like your Madge!

Author:  Mona [ Wed May 21, 2008 8:02 am ]
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Wonderful letter from Madge, again, and just what Joey needed to be told. I do hope she pays some attention to it!

Author:  Kadi [ Wed May 21, 2008 10:47 am ]
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I loved that letter from Madge. It is just what Jo needed to hear.

Author:  Becky [ Wed May 21, 2008 12:26 pm ]
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Clare wrote:
I agree that Madge's letter will give Jo a lot to think about, but will she let her obsession with the school oerwhelm all of the other advice? I can see her reading it and just focussing on the fact Madge and Hilda feel the school is too isolated.

Absolutely fascinating series Emma - thank you so much for this!


Exactly what Clare said!

Author:  MaryR [ Wed May 21, 2008 1:00 pm ]
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How revealing letters can be! :cry:

Thanks, Emma.

Author:  Liz K [ Wed May 21, 2008 1:53 pm ]
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What a wonderful letter from Madge - I wonder if Jo is cowering in a corner? Can't wait for her response once Madge's letter has had a chance to sink in!

Author:  Jennie [ Wed May 21, 2008 2:06 pm ]
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Madge was very right to tell Jo where she has been going wrong in her treatment of the triplets, but, does she need to borrow my lump hammer to get it through Jo's thick, hide-bound head?

BTW: did the CS girls never do Biology in all of its aspects? We certainly had to do human reproduction for Biology and that was in 1961.

Author:  Emma A [ Wed May 21, 2008 3:20 pm ]
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I don't think Len and the triplets would have learned any human biology - they seem to have started specialising quite early, and I don't recall any mention of human biology - only botany!

Again, somewhat out of sequence...

Miss Helena Maynard to Dr Miriam Mendel

Shrewsbury College
5th May 196-

Dear Miriam,

It feels very strange to use your name, but since you’ve invited me to do so, I accept the invitation cordially.

Your letter was such a comfort to me, and I very much appreciate you having written it. I will do my very best to make Isaac happy, but will take to heart the advice you’ve given me. I am sure he will also make me very happy – and indeed is doing so already. I love him very much.

Thank-you so much for your kind invitation to spend the day with you at graduation: however, my parents plan to make the trip themselves (for it will be my sister, Con’s, ceremony, too), and I am looking forward to showing them around Oxford. I would very much like to meet you and Sir Leopold, so perhaps we can arrange a mutually convenient time to meet one another.

I don’t know if you know Oxford well, but I have found it such a marvellous place to live and study. It seems strange that, when I count them up, I’ve spent far less than three years here, for I seem to have lived more deeply and freely in this time than in my previous eighteen. Perhaps it’s the growing-up that one has to do – I felt the wrench from home and school very strongly when I first came here, so different from what I had known and grown up with. But when I went home for that first vacation, I realised that I had begun changing, for it all seemed so little, and static. If I’d been unhappy, I think its unchanging nature would have been comforting, but instead I found it just a little dull.

I shall be sorry to end my student life here, but Oxford has given me far more than I think I have given it. I will miss the place when I go to work and study in London, and I wonder how different things will be in such a large city.

I’m sorry that this is such a short letter, and hope you’ll excuse me. I look forward to meeting you again soon.

Sincerely,
Helena

Author:  Jennie [ Wed May 21, 2008 3:25 pm ]
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A very sensible and well-expressed letter.

Thanks, Emma.

Author:  Lesley [ Wed May 21, 2008 3:37 pm ]
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That was nice - can see Len sorry Helena, being very diffident yet, at the same time, rejoicing in getting a letter from the older generation that was not accusatory.


Thanks Emma.

Author:  Celia [ Wed May 21, 2008 3:48 pm ]
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I find these letters really interesting,showing,as they do,how Len has blossomed and matured over the three years, and how others (notably
her mother)have not realised how the 60's have changed people's
attitudes.

Hoping for lots more to come :twisted: Thanks Emma

Author:  Alison H [ Wed May 21, 2008 4:33 pm ]
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Sir Leopold, no less :D !

Another nice letter from Len - she seems to find it much easier to communicate with Isaac's parents than with her own.

Author:  LauraMcC [ Wed May 21, 2008 4:42 pm ]
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It's nice to see how Helena has changed during her time at Oxford. I thought that this line was particularly true:

[/quote]It seems strange that, when I count them up, I’ve spent far less than three years here, for I seem to have lived more deeply and freely in this time than in my previous eighteen.[quote]

When you consider how isolated she was at the Platz, and the fact that her mother still wants to keep her as a child, it seems true that she is now living more freely than before!

Author:  Clare [ Wed May 21, 2008 4:42 pm ]
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Alison H wrote:
she seems to find it much easier to communicate with Isaac's parents than with her own.


Is it any wonder with Jo's letters though?! :D

Another brilliant letter Emma, thanks again!

Author:  Emma A [ Wed May 21, 2008 4:45 pm ]
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Alison H wrote:
Sir Leopold, no less :D !

I read that High Court judges are usually knighted upon being appointed, so... I'm hoping this was the case in the 1950s, too!

Author:  Alison H [ Wed May 21, 2008 4:48 pm ]
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Oops, I forgot that he was a High Court judge :oops: .

Author:  leahbelle [ Wed May 21, 2008 5:18 pm ]
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Thanks, Emma.

Author:  abbeybufo [ Wed May 21, 2008 6:09 pm ]
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Thanks Emma, another lovely letter. How Helena has grown, even from the girl who wrote the first letter you gave us :)

Author:  Mrs Redboots [ Wed May 21, 2008 7:13 pm ]
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Just had a catch-up of several days' worth of this. It is really good - thank you so much!

Author:  PaulineS [ Wed May 21, 2008 8:58 pm ]
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Thank you for another lovely letter.

Author:  Fi [ Wed May 21, 2008 9:30 pm ]
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I have just read through all of this and it is really good.
It is so lovely to see that Len has grown into such a well grounded self possessed young woman.

Joey needs to take some time to really think about what Madge is trying to tell her. If she continues to be so stubborn and selfish or makes a scene at Len's graduation she will lose her for good and it might damage her relationship with Con and Margot. What affects Len will obviously effect them too.

Thanks Emma

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Wed May 21, 2008 10:26 pm ]
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A lovely letter, Emma - Helena has struck just the right note here. I hope that there will be a chance for her to meet Isaac's parents during the graduation period.

Author:  crystaltips [ Wed May 21, 2008 10:52 pm ]
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Yes! Thank you Madge (I mean Emma!) just what needed to be said. Hope Jo takes notice. The point about relocating the san & school was well made too, although whether Jo will see it that way is another matter! Her response will be interesting - especially about Hilda & Nell having been consulted before her.

*trying to think who Jo can sound of to by letter - Dick & Mollie perhaps?*

Author:  Tara [ Wed May 21, 2008 11:32 pm ]
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Helena is just lovely, so mature and thoughtful and so clearly in the process of blossoming in every possible way.

Jennie wrote:
did the CS girls never do Biology in all of its aspects?
We certainly stopped before we got to humans (Biology O-Level 1962/63). I think we touched the fringe edges of rabbits, but amoebas loomed large ...)

Author:  Jennie [ Thu May 22, 2008 9:13 am ]
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Obviously the NUJMB was before its time.

Author:  Fiona Mc [ Thu May 22, 2008 2:19 pm ]
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Thanks Emma, Am really enjoying the letters and thought Madge's was spot on with what she wrote. I just hope Joey takes it on board

Author:  Abi [ Thu May 22, 2008 3:01 pm ]
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Well done Madge! Let's hope Jo finally manages to take on board what she's saying and finally accepts that Helena really is able to think for herself.

Author:  Elle [ Fri May 23, 2008 7:46 am ]
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Abi wrote:
Let's hope Jo finally manages to take on board what she's saying and finally accepts that Helena really is able to think for herself.


Yeah right! This is Joey remember! I bet she kidnaps Len on graduation day, smuggles her to the Platz and forces her to marry Reg, she then uses her contacts at the San to artificially inseminate her (good Chalet girls don't have sex obviously) and forcing her to have multiple multiple births... Might write that version myself!


Thanks Emma, I am really enjoying this.

Author:  LizzieC [ Fri May 23, 2008 11:28 am ]
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Elle wrote:
Yeah right! This is Joey remember! I bet she kidnaps Len on graduation day, smuggles her to the Platz and forces her to marry Reg, she then uses her contacts at the San to artificially inseminate her (good Chalet girls don't have sex obviously) and forcing her to have multiple multiple births... Might write that version myself!


:shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock:

*lays down bunny food and retreats slowly*

:twisted:

Author:  Mona [ Fri May 23, 2008 1:56 pm ]
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Quoting from AlisonH in another thread:

Quote:
I always think that Madge would have been a good person to help Len cope with all the responsibility and expectations that were dumped on her because she was the eldest.

And here might be a good place to do it. Only if you're running short of ideas, of course, Emma. :wink:
I'm really enjoying this corespondance, thanks!

Author:  Emma A [ Tue May 27, 2008 4:38 pm ]
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Been away for a few days, so here's the next letter. This is mainly an excuse to wax lyrical about Howells' music :wink:

Mr Isaac Mendel to Dr Miriam Mendel

Pembroke College
21st May 196-

Dear Mum,

Please can you badger Dad to come to Oxford for graduation? If you think it will help I will write to him myself, but there’s no guarantee that he’d read it in time to make the necessary arrangements! Helena’s parents are planning to visit Oxford for her (and her sister’s) graduation, and they’d like to meet up for lunch. I’d like to do this so that we get all the meetings over at once, and there’s less chance for awkwardness.

I’d like to be there anyway, to give Helena some support, since it seems that her mother – whose attitude is distressing and puzzling Helena considerably – may not be entirely supportive of her decisions. Mrs Maynard appears to be thinking of her daughter, and treating her (in her letters, anyway) as though she is a child, incapable of forming her own opinions and meekly spouting mine. The thought would make me laugh if it didn’t make me so angry. Anyway, I shan’t voice the thoughts, because it seems somewhat disloyal to Helena.

I ventured into the cathedral with her on Sunday. I’d never been in there before, and Helena, because she’s a Catholic, had only been to a few services. We went to Evensong, mainly because Helena said that we’d get better music than at Eucharist. Oh, and it was good. Forgive me if I’m telling you things you already know, but the choir sing responses to words chanted by a cantor, then something called Anglican chant to the psalms for the day. Then they sing settings of two “Canticles” from the New Testament – prayers of Mary and the old man Simeon – the Magnificat and Nunc dimittis, more responses, and then an anthem. The settings of the canticles was by an English composer called Herbert Howells, written for King’s College, Cambridge, and it was one of the most heart-stopping things I have ever heard. There was absolute silence in the cathedral at the end, as though no-one dared to breathe. And then the humdrum ordinariness of the Old Testament reading rather brought us back to earth. The anthem was a partial setting of Psalm 42 by the same composer, and was utterly ravishing: the soul longing for the Lord.

Don’t worry that I’m going to convert, but don’t be surprised if I announce intentions of going to evensong occasionally – just for the singing. Helena, I should add, was equally affected: I saw tears in her eyes at the end of the anthem. She tells me they don’t have anything like that at the church she attends. Isn’t it odd that music can do that? Express a sentiment that one’s not conscious of feeling, but convey it so beautifully that one is moved profoundly. It makes me regret that I can’t sing myself – Helena can, though she assures me that her triplet sister Margot has a much better voice. She also plays the violin, in a semi-serious vein, so we’ve tried playing together. That’s a very wonderful feeling, to make music with one’s love.

Later –
Good news, I think. Helena’s best friend Theodora – better known as Ted or Teddy – has written to inform her that there is a bedroom to be rented at Teddy’s house in Bloomsbury (she’s studying law at UCL). As long as Teddy’s landlady agrees, Helena will be living there for the summer. It means that she’s much happier to go off to Switzerland after graduation, knowing that she has somewhere to live while she’s doing her teaching assistance. And of course she’ll be near us, so that we can spend more time together – though I guess mostly at weekends.

I’ve been meaning to thank you for your letter to Helena. She really appreciated it – as I think you know. And I appreciate it, too, very much.

With much love from your undeserving son,
Isaac

Author:  Jennie [ Tue May 27, 2008 4:45 pm ]
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A lovely letter from Isaac to his mother, and wonderful to see how much he realises that Helena needs support, and protection from Jo. Will Jo never learn?

And the point about music, church music is often wonderful and uplifting, and touches the soul.

Author:  Alison H [ Tue May 27, 2008 4:50 pm ]
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His relationship with his mother's lovely - shame that Len's with Joey isn't the same.

Author:  Lesley [ Tue May 27, 2008 5:04 pm ]
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That letter says so much about the relationship Isaac has with his mother.



Thanks Emma.

Author:  Mona [ Tue May 27, 2008 5:22 pm ]
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Thanks Emma. Isaac's relationship with his mother seems wonderful.

Author:  Fatima [ Tue May 27, 2008 5:30 pm ]
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I'm really enjoying these letters, thanks Emma.

Author:  PaulineS [ Tue May 27, 2008 5:45 pm ]
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Thanks for the letter.
I visited Christ Church Oxford also Oxford's cathedral for evensong a year ago and their music is excellent. It made more impression than my visit to Kings College Cambridge a few years previously. ( I know the chiors change as the boys change)

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Tue May 27, 2008 7:23 pm ]
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That is a lovely letter from Isaac to his mother and shows just how well they understand each other. I do hope Miriam will be able to pursuade her husband to attend their son's graduation ceremonies and meet Helena's parents at the same time.

As for the church music - I'll confess I know little of Howells' music, but Evensong in any of the great cathedrals or churches is a truly wonderful event. I attended that service in York Minster several times when I was at school - more years ago than I'm admitting to here!! And our Jewish heritage notwithstanding, my mother always declared that the one thing she envied Christians was their religious music - I definitely agree with that. I'm not surprised it made an impression on Isaac, either.

Thanks, Emma

Author:  abbeybufo [ Tue May 27, 2008 8:46 pm ]
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Thnaks Emma, another lovely letter - really enjoying Isaac's relationship with his mother . . . and the contrast to Len's with Jo :evil:

Author:  JackieP [ Tue May 27, 2008 9:50 pm ]
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Thanks for the update, Emma...

Had to giggle at:

Emma A wrote:
We went to Evensong, mainly because Helena said that we’d get better music than at Eucharist.


as it's exactly what Ben says about our church (we have the two groups, and the one that sings in the evening are much more technically accomplished).

But church music can be a moving thing. We sang a Bruckner piece last week for our Curate's First Mass (V. High Church - so the men were all in lace and velvet...!) and his Mum said afterwards that she was in tears it was so beautiful...

Thanks again
JackieP

Author:  Cath V-P [ Wed May 28, 2008 2:37 am ]
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How sensible and perceptive Isaac is.

And I know and have sung that Howells setting and you're so right about the breathless silence as the sound seems to hang in the air afterwards.

Author:  roversgirl [ Wed May 28, 2008 4:52 am ]
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Thanks for the new letter - Hope Isaac's father comes and it all goes well :)

Author:  LauraMcC [ Wed May 28, 2008 1:33 pm ]
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Thanks for this letter - it's nice that Isaac is so supportive of Helena.

Author:  crystaltips [ Wed May 28, 2008 5:05 pm ]
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What a lovely letter from Isaac.

Thanks, Emma

Author:  Luisa [ Wed May 28, 2008 11:40 pm ]
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We sang the Howells settings of the Mag and Nunc at Gloucester Cathedral last week. It was magical - I can only imagine how it must have sounded to someone not used to Anglican Church Music.
Can we put Isaac through a course of Tallis and Byrd next? :)

Author:  Abi [ Thu May 29, 2008 3:34 pm ]
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Nice letter from Isaac there. Little bit worried about graduation... fingers crossed for peace talks!

Author:  talitha [ Thu May 29, 2008 5:47 pm ]
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I'm new to this group but blimey...those letters are blumin brilliant. I didn't really want to be impressed but now, worse than that...I'm slightly addicted. I trawled through seventeen pages and am now left with a vague sense of disappointment that I have to wait to find out what happens when everyone meets in Oxford. My imagination is running slightly wild with a hormone-crazed Joey twirling her handbag at Isaac's dignified mother and inducing early labour...

Author:  Clare [ Thu May 29, 2008 8:26 pm ]
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Welcome talitha!

I have to agree these letters are just amazing. The contrast between Isaac's parents and the Maynards... Brilliant! Thank you Emma!

Author:  patmac [ Thu May 29, 2008 11:29 pm ]
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These are superb, thank you Emma.

You've really caught the tensions that exist in so many families (unfortunately) and although I would like to shake Jo, I've heard the same sort of thing in real life and the counterpoint of Ted's memory of Jo and her realisation that Jo does love Helena - even if it is imperfect in it's application - was very poignant.

I wonder how Helena and the rest of the family will react to Jo's pregnancy. I notice she has told all and sundry but not her own children, another indication that she doesn't accept them as adults, yet.

And, yes. Tell Helena when you see her to make sure she and Isaac experience some Tallis.

Author:  Fiona Mc [ Fri May 30, 2008 12:49 pm ]
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Thanks, Isacc was so lovely there. A true SLOC

Author:  Jennie [ Fri May 30, 2008 4:13 pm ]
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And I want to know what happens next, please, Emma.

I shall start a chant.

Author:  crystaltips [ Fri May 30, 2008 5:18 pm ]
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Joins Jennie chanting

Author:  Jennie [ Sat May 31, 2008 1:04 pm ]
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Well, I hope you can't sing, Crystaltips, because I can't. Chants are very effective when they make a horrible noise.

Author:  Luisa [ Sat May 31, 2008 10:16 pm ]
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Equally effective in tune, you know!
Starts chant from Hildegard of Bingen. All together now...

Author:  abbeybufo [ Sat May 31, 2008 10:24 pm ]
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. . . particularly if that Feather [on the Breath of God] tickles in an appropriate place to get some more of this posted :twisted:

*joins in*

Author:  claireM [ Mon Jun 02, 2008 5:26 pm ]
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Excellant letters, thankyou Emma.

Author:  Emma A [ Mon Jun 02, 2008 7:11 pm ]
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Oooh! I've never been chanted at before! I've been using most of my CBB time last week reading all of Mia's Bettany drabbles, and not having time to write any letters. Here's the next one... Thanks, by the way, to everyone who's suggested new letters - it's inspiring.

Lady Russell to Miss Helena Maynard

Llan-y-penllan
May 20th, 196-

Dear Helena,

Having received a couple of letters from your mother regarding your recent news, I felt that you might appreciate an offer of support and advice, should you feel the need. Your mother explained the situation to me in a somewhat jumbled and chaotic fashion, but I gather that you have decided that you can’t marry Reg Entwistle, and have fallen in love with a young man, Isaac Mendel, whom you eventually intend to marry.

If your feelings for Reg have changed so much, then it is infinitely better to have made this hard decision now than spend a lifetime regretting a marriage made in error. While we should rightly think that a promise should be kept, such a deep and binding vow - as is the vow of marriage - should not be entered into lightly, or with an unsure mind. It is good that you are thinking about the future, and realising that marriage needs more than simply liking and affection, though these are a good foundation for any couple. Would you have changed your mind about the wedding if you had not fallen in love elsewhere? I hope you would have done: for then the change would be in yourself, and not in your feelings.

I feel I’m expressing this very badly, but I don’t want you to think hardly of your mother. We all, as parents, want the best things for our children, and it is something of a shock (and may take some period of adjustment) when we find out that what we had in mind does not tally with our children’s. I can be philosophical about this because I have already gone through this with Sybil and Josette: whose decisions about their futures were so different to what I had planned for them. The twins, too, have rejected vehemently any idea of them going into the Armed Forces: Kester says he wants to be in a “blues” band, of all things! We shall see how long his present enthusiasm for the guitar lasts, and I’m thankful that at least it isn’t an electric model. His present musical heroes are one Muddy Waters and Willie Dixon. It certainly isn’t what I find musical, but he enjoys it.

I’m pleased to learn that you will be undertaking some teaching assistance before starting your training: that can only give you a better idea of how you’ll cope in a teaching environment and whether you’ll be able to keep your temper in the face of provocation! The most invaluable skill to learn, I think, is to understand when a pupil is in genuine difficulties, and when she (or he) is merely paying no attention. I wish you luck in that endeavour, but I’m confident that you’ll find your feet quickly. And it will be invaluable for you to have had some experience in the classroom before you begin your training.

It’s a shame that we won’t see you in June, along with your parents, when they come to us after your graduation: I understand that you’re going down to the Quadrant for a few days. Your aunt and uncle will look after you, feed you well, and send you off home refreshed, I’m sure.

Do let me know about Isaac and his family: they sound interesting people. And do write if you’d like advice or just a few words of encouragement: please send me your address in London when you move, since we do occasionally visit the city, and would love to see you again soon.

With much love from
Aunt Madge

Author:  Clare [ Mon Jun 02, 2008 7:32 pm ]
Post subject: 

Nice letter, good to see Helena getting support within the family. Yay Madge!

Author:  Jennie [ Mon Jun 02, 2008 7:53 pm ]
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Thank God for Madge being so sensible. She's completely and utterly right. Marriage is far too serious a thing to go into it, knowing you are marrying the wrong man.

Better a little heartbreak now than a lifetime of regret.

Thanks, Emma.

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Mon Jun 02, 2008 8:17 pm ]
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That was lovely, and so right - I hope that Helena will be able to take comfort and reassurance from it.

Thanks, Emma

Author:  JayB [ Mon Jun 02, 2008 8:19 pm ]
Post subject: 

Madge has obviously put a lot of thought into this letter, and has struck just the right note. Supportive of Helena, but not taking sides between her and Joey. I think her interpretation of Joey's behaviour is kinder than Joey deserves, but telling Helena that her mother is selfish and possessive wouldn't really help matters!

Author:  Lesley [ Mon Jun 02, 2008 8:21 pm ]
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That was a lovely letter from Madge - just what Helena needed and after the letters from Joey I imagine a welcome relief.


Thanks Emma.

Author:  abbeybufo [ Mon Jun 02, 2008 8:39 pm ]
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Madge's letter was just right - very sane, non-judgmental, supportive.

Liking Madge very much in this

Thanks Emma

Author:  Celia [ Mon Jun 02, 2008 11:23 pm ]
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Well done Madge. At last Helena has an adult female in her own family
from whom to seek advice and support if she needs it.

Thank you for another interesting letter Emma.

Author:  patmac [ Mon Jun 02, 2008 11:47 pm ]
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I'm really liking Madge in this! I would think that will strengthen Helena's resolve.

Thank you.

Author:  Luisa [ Mon Jun 02, 2008 11:55 pm ]
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At least Helena has one member of the family who admits that she can't map out the future for her children, and has had the honesty to confess it.

Thank you Emma

Author:  Anjali [ Tue Jun 03, 2008 2:22 am ]
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Thanks for another wonderful update Emma - I was lost to the world when reading Mia's Bettany drabbles :lol:

Author:  Mona [ Tue Jun 03, 2008 7:31 am ]
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Thanks Emma, that was a lovely letter from Madge.

Author:  Elle [ Tue Jun 03, 2008 8:04 am ]
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Thanks for the update Emma.

Author:  Emma A [ Tue Jun 03, 2008 8:56 am ]
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Miss Theodora Grantley to Miss Helena Maynard

London
28th May 196-

Dear Helena,

O frabjous day! I spoke to Mrs C as soon as I got your letter, and she is highly agreeable to have you rent the room on terms which should be affordable: twenty-four shillings a week, all found; and she’s an excellent cook. I am looking forward to having you here – it will be almost like being at school again, only better! I’m looking forward to showing you all my favourite places in London: shops, gardens, restaurants, galleries, museums, etc. It will be like discovering them all over again.

You asked about Max (which made me laugh), well there’s certainly nothing going on there, my dear. He’s a lovely chap – cultured, sensitive and witty – and il aime à la Grecque. Not that he goes around proclaiming it to the rooftops, seeing as homosexuality is illegal, and very shocking to most people. I admit I found it shocking at first, and was quite prepared to find myself disgusted – but I realised that I liked him. Now I think that if he can’t possibly find women attractive, then that’s how he’s made and nothing will make him change. So I do hate it when people who should know better villify him, or taunt. Sometimes they do more than that, and I’ve seen him sporting bruises or cuts, and my heart just rises in indignation against such bullies. He takes it with outward placidity, though inwardly I sometimes see a great anger.

Mr Black, on the other hand, has been very elusive of late. I do like him. Very much. In fact, more than that. At one time, he seemed quite interested in me – we went out to dinner a couple of times, and we found lots of things to talk about. Since I’ve come back after Mother’s illness, however, there’s been nothing apart from a brief nod across the lecture hall, and the occasional, Good morning. I don’t know whether he has lost interest, is too busy, or thinks that Max and I are courting. If it’s the latter then I’m not sure that I think well of his observational skills, and if it’s the former, there isn’t much I can do apart from bear it, and never let him see.

I don’t mean to bore you with my romantic problems, because they really are unimportant, even if they don’t feel that way to me. Study and revision are very much more real and vital at present, and I can’t afford to have these three years thrown away through inattention or love-sickness! I don’t mean to be so self-indulgent.

With respect to your situation, it is very difficult to be sure of what one is doing if one’s parents disapprove. For example, my mother’s expectations are so completely different to mine, that I’ve grown up in the aroma of disapproval. I’ve learned to ignore it, and just think of it as something that she can’t help: but it is hard sometimes, to know that, whatever one says or proposes to her, that she will immediately disagree or try to prohibit, and that everything one does seems to be an affront to her. I will write to Cousin May, because she’s been good to me, and may sympathise, even if she can’t advise what best to do in the situation.

I know what you mean about suddenly being plunged into the hurly-burly of university life and feeling so dull in comparison with one’s fellow-students. But that feeling passed, and I’m sure you’ll do better than you think. For after all, coming to university and reading for a degree is not about learning a set of facts, is it, but learning to think for oneself. It’s sometimes interesting, when faced with a particular case, to deliberately argue for the losing side, especially if it’s in a case where the law seems so watertight and admitting of only one opinion. Obviously one would try to persuade a client against defending an untenable position, or taking legal action on flimsy grounds, but sometimes one does have to take up a position that one doesn’t necessarily believe in. In other words, I think what I’m trying to say is that studying law makes one question everything, because there is always more than one interpretation of the facts.

Unless anything urgent turns up, this will probably be my last letter before I get really stuck into work: our exams are later than yours, but still, are looming alarmingly rapidly. All best wishes for yours – do let me know how the exams go.

With love from
Teddy

Author:  wheelchairprincess [ Tue Jun 03, 2008 9:55 am ]
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Love these letters but not sure I like Ted being called Teddy, strikes me as a little strange. Still I certainly reinvented myself to a certain degree when I went to uni so I suppose it does make sense. As does the whole Len - Helena thing, Len always struck me as a baby name.

Thanks, Emma

Author:  Lesley [ Tue Jun 03, 2008 10:31 am ]
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Lovely letter from Ted - also don't get the 'Teddy' thing - makes her sound like a bear! 24 shillings per week? Would be interested in the average wage for the early 60's. Glad that Ted's happy with Max's friendship, though this 'Mr Black' sounds a bit of an idiot.


Thanks Emma.

Author:  Emma A [ Tue Jun 03, 2008 11:06 am ]
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My mum pulled down the princely sum of two pounds a week when she started work in 1956 as an unqualified clerk in an insurance office (of which, I might add, she was allowed to keep 10s by her mother, the rest being for bed and board). I'm hoping that 24s is a reasonable sum...

As for the Teddy thing - well, I've always felt "Ted" was a bit boyish, and that she might have wanted to feminize her name a bit when she went to university. Theo is just as boyish, I think, so unless she went to using her full name, which she dislikes, I'm not sure what other abbreviations there might be. :)

Author:  ibarhis [ Tue Jun 03, 2008 12:41 pm ]
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Emma A wrote:
As for the Teddy thing - well, I've always felt "Ted" was a bit boyish, and that she might have wanted to feminize her name a bit when she went to university. Theo is just as boyish, I think, so unless she went to using her full name, which she dislikes, I'm not sure what other abbreviations there might be. :)


I suppose she could have feminized Theo as Thea?

Author:  JayB [ Tue Jun 03, 2008 12:50 pm ]
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I suppose what's important is that 'Teddy' is a name she's chosen for herself. 'Ted' was rather foisted on her, and might be too closely associated with the person she was when she first came to the CS, when she was still unhappy.

Author:  shazwales [ Tue Jun 03, 2008 3:19 pm ]
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I was suprised that when Joey gave her the 'name options' that no-one mentioned Dora?
When i was at school [long time ago] there were three of us with the name Sharon
! I ended up being known as Roni which to be honest i quite liked :o

Author:  Celia [ Tue Jun 03, 2008 3:36 pm ]
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I started work in 1963 in London and got just under £11 per week. That
was teacher's pay including extra 'London allowance' :P

Can't get used to the names Teddy or Helena either, but am sure I will after a few more letters :twisted:

Thanks Emma

Author:  abbeybufo [ Tue Jun 03, 2008 8:13 pm ]
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Thanks Emma for another interesting letter. I also am having difficulty seeing Ted as Teddy - but see your reasoning now you've explained, so no doubt I'll get used to it :D

Author:  crystaltips [ Tue Jun 03, 2008 9:52 pm ]
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Just caught up with the last 2 letters - such a calm letter from Madge which must have been so welcome to Helena after her mothers rantings. Glad she will be able to turn to Madge if necessary.
Also pleased that Helena will be able to lodge in the same place as Teddy - I agree with the previous comments about "Teddy" but funnily enough I don't have a problem with Helena.

Author:  Anjali [ Wed Jun 04, 2008 1:32 am ]
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Agree with all the comments about the nice letters as well, and I also admit I like Helena much much better than Len! (I just typed 'Nell' there :lol: )

Author:  Fiona Mc [ Wed Jun 04, 2008 3:10 am ]
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Thanks. Madge and Teddy's letters were wonderful. I don't mind Teddy even though I still think of her as Ted, but completely understand being called by different names depending on who you are and where you are at that time.

Author:  Emerence [ Wed Jun 04, 2008 12:36 pm ]
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I didn't really notice anything about the name Teddy until reading the other comments. As a nickname I think it's more feminine-sounding and has a bit more of a flippant quality than Ted. Teddy bear didn't jump to my mind.

Author:  leahbelle [ Wed Jun 04, 2008 5:13 pm ]
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Thanks, Emma. I really enjoyed that last letter.

Author:  Emma A [ Wed Jun 04, 2008 6:51 pm ]
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Thanks for all the comments which tell me where to go next...

Mrs John Maynard to Miss Helena Maynard and Miss Constance Maynard

Freudesheim
May 27th, 196-

My dear girls,

Do forgive me for writing this to both of you, but I have some surprising news which I’d like to tell you both about at once. I will be writing separately to Margot and Stephen, so I won’t be able to give you such a bundle of home and school news as usual. That will have to wait until next time.

You’re going to have a new brother or sister in November! I hardly know whether I’m on my head or my heels (or upended into a packing case!), since Phil Graves gave us the news. When you see me next month I doubt I’ll be showing, but your father and I thought it right to write to you older children now, so that you’ll be prepared.

You aren’t to worry about me, for Uncle Phil is looking into prescribing some medication for my occasional bouts of morning sickness, and otherwise I am feeling quite fit and ready to travel to England for your graduation. We are very much looking forward to the big day, and will be so proud of you both, going up to the platform in your caps and gowns, to be presented with your degrees.

I’ve also had some surprising news from Auntie Madge – she is thinking seriously about moving the school down from the Platz, to Interlaken, or even Lausanne or Fribourg. You’ll remember from half-term visits how lovely these places are. She’s asked me to sound out the staff to see what they might think about moving away, so I shall do that soon, I think. It’s come as quite a shock, as you can imagine, but a very pleasant one: quite a new chapter for the Chalet School! You won’t mention this to anyone else, will you, chicks? It’s just that the idea is still a new one, and we don’t want wild rumours sweeping the school.

Did you ever feel confined, on the Platz, girls? Something Auntie Madge wrote in her letter made me wonder if perhaps you felt a little isolated. I’ve certainly never found it limiting, but with friends and family close by, and the school so near, and knowing that your father can do real good at the San – well, I’ve lived a very full and happy life here and will be sorry to leave, if leave we must. But that will depend very much on what Uncle Jem and your father decide to do about the San.

Anyway, I think I’ve given you enough to think about right now, so I shall sign off, and begin my next letter!

With much love from
Mamma

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Wed Jun 04, 2008 6:58 pm ]
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Well.... no one could ever say that Joey knew the meaning of breaking news gently to her family, could they? Two bombshells in the space of a few lines!! But I'm glad she did tell the girls about her pregnancy before they see her at Oxford. And I'll be very interested to read their comments about whether or not they felt isolated or confined on the Platz, too.

Thanks, Emma.

PS I've also enjoyed reading the last few letters just as much as all the rest - but time to comment has been seriously limited.

Author:  Lesley [ Wed Jun 04, 2008 8:00 pm ]
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A better letter but two bombshells at once! :shock:


Thanks Emma.

Author:  Chelsea [ Wed Jun 04, 2008 8:01 pm ]
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I'm useless with timelines, but I think we might be in the right era to be worried about the morning sickness drug...

Two rather large bombshells there, but a nice letter from Joey.

Author:  Pat [ Wed Jun 04, 2008 8:30 pm ]
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Thalidomide was the first thing I thoght of.

Author:  abbeybufo [ Wed Jun 04, 2008 9:04 pm ]
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Pat wrote:
Thalidomide was the first thing I thought of.


Me too :shock:

Thanks Emma - Jo still hasn't really got it, has she? But at least some attempt at rapprochement :D

Author:  Luisa [ Wed Jun 04, 2008 11:13 pm ]
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At least she is being positive about the possible move. A little growing up at last?

Author:  Celia [ Wed Jun 04, 2008 11:35 pm ]
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Joey has certainly given them plenty to think about :shock:

Phil's medication sounds worrying to me too.

Thanks Emma

Author:  patmac [ Thu Jun 05, 2008 8:45 am ]
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I thought of Thalidomide, too. It was first prescribed in Germany in 1957 and withdrawn in 1961 so it is more than possible, oh, dear!

I did like the reference to 'upended in a packing case' - nice link back to the books.

I wonder what Len and Con will write to Margot about this news - or vice versa - or (feeling greedy) both!

Thanks Emma, I'm really enjoying these.

Author:  Jennie [ Thu Jun 05, 2008 1:23 pm ]
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Yes, I thought of that dreadful drug, too.

But, Jo still doesn't steer a middle course, does she? Does she really expect adult daughters of twenty-one to dance a fandango because she is having another baby? They're more likely to run away and suffer terminal embarrassment.

Author:  Emma A [ Thu Jun 05, 2008 1:32 pm ]
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Miss Helena Maynard to Miss Felicity Maynard

Shrewsbury College
Oxford
2nd June 196-

Dear Felicity,

Thank-you very much for your last letter, and apologies that the reply has been so delayed. Things have been rather hectic here, and many letters have gone unanswered. So, now, to yours!

You may be surprised to know it, but your letter meant a great deal to me: it was so enthusiastic, so pleased for me, and so encouraging. I was in a very flat mood after I had written to Reg, and to Mamma and Papa, so to have your bright, happy letter was a real tonic.

I expected the parents to be surprised, but I hadn’t envisaged the degree of shock that they seem to have felt. I don’t feel that Mamma, in particular, has realised that I’ve changed since leaving school, and that I’m not a child any more. I guess you’ll feel the same way too, in a few years, and realise that there is life off the Platz, which is far different to that of school, home and half-term or holiday excursions (though what you’ve written seems to indicate that you’re already feeling “cribb’d, cabin’d and confined”). Anyway, I hope to have a good long talk with both Mamma and Papa when they visit Oxford next month for graduation: and to try to make them see (thought it is so hard in letters) why I’ve made the decision I have, and how nice Isaac is.

You asked me to tell you about him, and I find it difficult to describe him. Well, he’s a little taller than me, with red-brown hair that’s more fox-coloured than mine, and dark brown eyes. He smiles a lot, and there is often a look of amusement in his eyes: we find the same things funny. I feel so comfortable with him, too, like I’ve known him for a very long time – I can talk to him and discuss things with him easily, for I never feel that he merely tolerates my opinions. In fact he seems to expect disputation, so that I am getting used to the idea that arguing need not be a result of anger, and thus something to be avoided. Anyway, he is thoughtful, considerate, sensitive – he feels deeply about music, for example, and plays the piano very well. He isn’t particularly sporty, though he enjoys rowing for fun, swimming and walking, and like everyone in Oxford (and like me) he cycles everywhere. We’ve been on several rides in the countryside when we’ve had some free time, and despite being brought up in the city (his parents live in Hampstead Heath), is quick to appreciate the beauty of the country. I sometime miss the Alps, with those dizzying vistas, roaring rivers, and clear-cut views: everything in Oxford and around it is softened, hazy, and tranquil.

I certainly didn’t know anything about the school being invited to the wedding – how mortifying that would have been! The chapel would have been full to bursting, and half the girls would have had to stand outside in the cold, shivering. What was Mamma thinking?

I’m sorry that Mamma and Auntie Hilda have disagreed (and I can quite imagine that Mamma certainly didn’t get the better of our dear Abbess!), for truly she seemed to me the best person to give advice about teaching: after all, she was, not so long ago, part of a committee charged with looking at all sorts of educational establishments and methods (when Miss Wilmot was Head for a term). I never thought that Mamma could be upset by that, and I am sorry.

Well done on your form results, though – that’s excellent news! I’m so proud of you. How is Cecil doing? I hope Phil will feel better soon – I know how draining the hot weather can be, and how difficult it is to concentrate. Geoff, I hope, is not terrorising the Kinders too much!

I expect you’re very excited about the prospect of our new brother or sister coming: Mamma wrote to Con and me last week, but I guess you’ve known for ages. Claire will have a playmate not so far off her own age, so that will be fun for them both. Do let Mamma and Papa know how pleased I am for them – I will write, of course, but it will be fun for you to tell them on my behalf, won’t it!

Anyway, I must sign off now, and write to Mamma about her news, and then do some neglected work!

Lots of love,
Helena

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Thu Jun 05, 2008 1:39 pm ]
Post subject: 

That was a lovely, caring letter from one sister to another, revealing just how well Helena understands Felicity's situation, and how much she appreciated the younger girl's unqualified support. But I wonder if she has 'put her foot in it' by mentioning Joey's pregnancy - I rather thought from Joey's own letter to her that she hadn't told the younger girls about this yet.

I'm another who is wondering about thalidomide as the possible anti-morning sickness medicine which Joey may be given - although from what I recall, this was only prescribed to treat severe morning sickness, and it sounds as if Joey is only experiencing it occasionally.

Thanks, Emma

Author:  JayB [ Thu Jun 05, 2008 2:04 pm ]
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My first thought too was that Joey's letter implied that they hadn't yet told the younger ones about her pregnancy! Oops!

I thought Joey's last letter was a considerable improvement - she seems to be acknowledging that the triplets are adults with opinions that are worth listening to. But I doubt if they, or Steve, much care where the school is or where the Maynard family home is. They'll only be going back for visits from now on.

By the way, any chance of hearing about Steve? How does he feel about all this? The embarrassment factor of another baby would be trebled for him, I should think. I always felt rather sorry for him, he was dumped on nearly as much as Len when they were growing up. (And still hoping to hear from Nell :) )

Author:  Mona [ Thu Jun 05, 2008 2:54 pm ]
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Sweet letter from Len to Felicity - thanks!

I also wondered if she was letting cats out of bags with the comments about Jo's pregnancy, and if we should be worried about the morning sickness medicine.
Quote:
But I doubt if they, or Steve, much care where the school is or where the Maynard family home is. They'll only be going back for visits from now on.

I think they might care. I haven't lived in my family home for over 20 years, and only gone back for visits every few months for the past 8. I was still shocked and a bit upset when my parents announced they were planning to move house earlier this year. I got over it, of course, but it still felt a bit odd last time I was at home, knowing it might be the last time I was in that house, which holds so many memories.

Author:  Lesley [ Thu Jun 05, 2008 7:55 pm ]
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Lovely letter to Felicity - they obviously have a good relationship there - think Helena has just given away Joey's news but hey, it would have shown soon anyway - not every school girl is as dense as Joey was! :lol:


Thanks Emma.

Author:  abbeybufo [ Thu Jun 05, 2008 8:31 pm ]
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Thanks Emma for another lovely letter. This moves things on a bit - good to see Helena's relationship with Felicity from this angle too.

Another one wondering if Jo had told Felicity or not - also wondering if Helena may have let the cat out of the bag deliberately, thinking Felicity ought to know whether Jo had told her or not.

Author:  crystaltips [ Thu Jun 05, 2008 11:03 pm ]
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Yes, Helena letting the cat out of the bag was my first thought too. Otherwise it was a lovely letter & shows Helena's caring side without "coming the elder sister"


Thanks Emma

Author:  jennifer [ Fri Jun 06, 2008 6:08 am ]
Post subject: 

Mona wrote:
Sweet letter from Len to Felicity - thanks!

Quote:
But I doubt if they, or Steve, much care where the school is or where the Maynard family home is. They'll only be going back for visits from now on.

I think they might care. I haven't lived in my family home for over 20 years, and only gone back for visits every few months for the past 8. I was still shocked and a bit upset when my parents announced they were planning to move house earlier this year. I got over it, of course, but it still felt a bit odd last time I was at home, knowing it might be the last time I was in that house, which holds so many memories.


Yeah, my mom is in the process of selling the house I grew up in, as it's too big for her after my Dad's death. I haven't lived there for about 15 years, but I'm still finding it sad. Part of it is that I move around a lot myself, and so I don't have a well established home of my own.

Author:  JayB [ Fri Jun 06, 2008 12:56 pm ]
Post subject: 

I wonder how attached they were to Freudesheim, though? By the time of these letters, the Maynards had lived there nearly eleven years, about half the triplets' lifetime. But much of that time the older ones had been away at school or university - in Steve's case, not even in the same country. Then from the time the triplets were thirteen they spent part of each summer holiday at the Tiernsee, plus we hear of at least two visits to Simone, and Margot went to Australia.

Joey once said that home for her was wherever Jack and the children were - although she did become attached to Plas Gwyn. I wonder if Freudesheim was really 'home' to the Maynard children, or just the house where they lived.

Author:  JackieP [ Fri Jun 06, 2008 3:48 pm ]
Post subject: 

JayB wrote:
I wonder if Freudesheim was really 'home' to the Maynard children, or just the house where they lived.


Especially as the children would have spent more than half the year away at school...

ETA: Thanks for that last letter :D

JackieP

Author:  Emma A [ Fri Jun 06, 2008 6:29 pm ]
Post subject: 

Part of this letter is indebted to JayB’s wonderful “A Grey-Walled Paradise”.

Miss Helena Maynard to Mrs John Maynard

Shrewsbury College
Oxford
2nd June 196-

Dear Mamma,

Well, what a time it is for surprises! First me with my “bombshell”, and now you with yours! I am very pleased for you – have you thought of any names yet? Perhaps it’s a little early to be thinking of names, when it will be several months before the baby arrives. Recently, I met a girl at college who is called Nadège – she’s English, but I haven’t yet been able to ask where the name originates – isn’t it pretty? I hope you are looking after yourself, though, and not trying to climb mountains and ford streams, or wear yourself out in other ways.

I expect the kids are excited, aren’t they, to think that they will have a new baby sister or brother to coo over and play with, and it will be good that Claire will have someone closer to her own age to chum with when they’re a bit older.

As for your other news, well, that too was a surprise, though perhaps less unexpected. Knowing what I know now, as a result of spending almost three years at Oxford, I look back on my years at school and realise that it was a strange, hot-house environment. Apart from half-term excursions, in which we had limited time to explore alone, or in small groups, and holidays in the Tirol, all our lives were spent up on the Platz. A trip to Interlaken to the dentist was a major undertaking, and of course one was never in the mood to wander round the town after Herr von Francius had done his worst with drill and file. I’m shuddering now to remember it!

If Auntie Madge does decide to move the school, I should think both girls and staff will approve: there would be a chance for the girls to visit the town, for all sorts of cultural activities, and it could be a Sixth Form privilege to be able to go into town alone. The staff would also have some freedom, and not be stuck to the school permanently. There may be fewer opportunities for winter sports, but lessons would be less disrupted during bad weather, for the town’s roads would be kept clear. Perhaps there would be a chance to encourage more day girls, and to have more interaction with the townsfolk (of whichever place the school moves to). At present the Platz is an English enclave, and the few Swiss there own and operate the few pensions, or are staff at the San or school, and the girls have little contact with the culture of the land in which they are living.

I wrote to you at the start of my first year at Oxford about the difference between what I thought I had learned and experienced, and what my tutors expected of me. I almost gave up: it’s not pleasant to be told that one has a provincial accent, and know nothing about the current affairs of the place which one has called home for the past six years. I had started my course comfortably expecting that my years at the Chalet School would have given me an advantage over my peers: but they had not.

I am glad I didn’t give up my course, and battled on, but it was a shock to the system, as I think you can imagine. For the Chalet School to continue to grow, and to increase its reputation, much more effort needs to be made to experience the Swiss culture, to understand the current affairs of the country and its French- and German-speaking neighbours, and perhaps to hire native German speakers to teach German: I am very fond of Miss Denny, and hold her in the highest regard, but the things said by my tutor about the “bad habits” I had picked up from her don’t bear repeating.

Of course, these are only my opinions, and I acknowledge that I thought the Chalet School was the best there was when I was there. Now I can see that it can be improved.

I really must do some work now, since I’ve spent over an hour already this evening writing to you and Felicity, and I have an essay to write about Rilke’s poetry, so must switch on my German brain.

Lots of love to you and Dad,
Helena


That's all for a while, since I'm on site for the next few weeks (maybe I'll be able to post at weekends...)

Author:  PaulineS [ Fri Jun 06, 2008 6:41 pm ]
Post subject: 

Emma thank you for your posts. At least Joey knows Helena has contacted Felicity.

I hope you enjoy the time on site and it is productive.

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Fri Jun 06, 2008 6:42 pm ]
Post subject: 

That is a lovely letter from Helena - I like the way she makes the automatic switch to treating her mother as an equal rather than as 'Mama' here, which I take as a sign that she has come to terms with Joey's original attack on her changed plans. I also really enjoyed her objective assessment both of the advantages for the school if Madge does decide to move it, and of her own cultural and even more, her academic 'shock' when she arrived in Oxford. Those differences between any particular school's methods and the universities' expectations are always there, aren't they? - I remember a similar experience myself!

Thanks for all the enjoyment you have been giving us with these letters, Emma - good luck with your site work, and we'll look forward to seeing more posts from you whenever you have chance.

Author:  Lesley [ Fri Jun 06, 2008 6:50 pm ]
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A very adult letter from Helena - and one that I hope Joey will appreciate. I do wonder if she will take the implied point that perhaps Joey herself has become rather staid and conservative - after all she has remained with the CS all this time.


Thanks Emma.

Author:  Luisa [ Fri Jun 06, 2008 8:27 pm ]
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Hope Joey reacts sensibly to this!
Look forward to finding out in due course.

Thank you

Author:  abbeybufo [ Fri Jun 06, 2008 9:05 pm ]
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I can believe in her as Helena even more after this letter, Emma – she sounds so adult and confident. Sensible ideas, too, and good reasoning. Hope Joey sees the difference. Caught the resonance from “A Grey-Walled Paradise” – lovely to see another glimpse of that world. And so natural, too, that her accent would have been seen as [?heard as] ‘provincial’ rather than Hoch-Deutsch :lol:

Echoing Elder in thanking you for all the enjoyment this series of letters have given.

I look forward to the continuation of this on your return – or to any chances you may get to post for us at weekends, of course :D

Author:  JayB [ Fri Jun 06, 2008 11:40 pm ]
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Thank you! :)

It's good to see how Len might have overcome the bad start I gave her and emerged all the stronger for the experience.

Quote:
....not trying to climb mountains and ford streams....

Now I'm wondering - has Len got a copy of the cast recording of the Broadway production of The Sound of Music hidden away somewhere? Or has she managed to see the London production, which opened in May '61? (I looked it up out of curiosity to see how Len might know the song.)

Looking forward to reading more when you can manage it.

Author:  patmac [ Fri Jun 06, 2008 11:51 pm ]
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Well done, Helena! She spoke her mind objectively and took just the right adult stance. Perhaps this will be the start of a new and more equal relationship between her and Jo.

Enjoy being on site and we will all be waiting when you get back :wink:

Author:  Jennie [ Sat Jun 07, 2008 7:46 pm ]
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What's the betting that Jo won't take the hint?

Author:  Caroline [ Mon Jun 09, 2008 1:54 pm ]
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Lesley wrote:
A very adult letter from Helena - and one that I hope Joey will appreciate. I do wonder if she will take the implied point that perhaps Joey herself has become rather staid and conservative - after all she has remained with the CS all this time.

Thanks Emma.


I wonder if Joey has fallen into the same kind of mid-life rut as Madge almost did when she risked became "that sweet woman, Lady Russell" and Jo ranted about how she [Madge] was so much more than that.

Going to Canada woke Madge up again and revitalised her; Joey hasn't had had to grapple with that kind of big change since moving to Switzerland, and has got into a big, isolated, school-focussed, out of touch rut. She needs shaking out of that, pronto, but who is there to do it?

ETA: Thanks very much, Emma!

Author:  Celia [ Mon Jun 09, 2008 7:28 pm ]
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A very mature letter from Helena, no harking back to Joey's previous
epistles, just considered comments on her own situation, and on Madge's
new proposals.

Enjoy being on site Emma, and thanks for all the interesting letters.

Author:  Fiona Mc [ Tue Jun 10, 2008 6:02 am ]
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Thanks Emma. It's been lovely catching up with the last few letters. Len has been very mature there, especially as I'm sure she's hurt about Joey earlier letters. I know Joey dropped 2 bombshells but at least they weren't as emotionally devastating as her earler letters were.

Author:  crystaltips [ Thu Jun 12, 2008 6:14 pm ]
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Thank you Emma, a very well balanced letter.
Will be interested to read Joey's response whenever you have time to post it.

Author:  Emma A [ Mon Jun 16, 2008 11:53 am ]
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Again, somewhat out of sequence - sorry...

Miss Helena Maynard to Lady Russell

Shrewsbury College
Oxford
May 24th 196-

Dear Auntie Madge,

Thank-you so much for your kind letter – I felt I had to answer it straight away. I appreciate very much you taking the time to explain why Mamma is finding it so hard to come to terms with my decision not to marry Reg, as well as not seeing, perhaps, how I have grown up in the past few years. I guess I was doing the right thing, by saying that I couldn’t go through with the marriage – and I am sure that it is me who has changed, and that I couldn’t marry Reg even if there was no Isaac Mendel – but it is very reassuring to read that you think likewise.

Mamma’s attitude so far has disappointed me, but I have been reminded, by you and my others, that she does love me, and that she will “come round”, and eventually support my decision – and my right to make it.

She has also written to us about her pregnancy – which startled me a little, as well as pleasing me, for she never told us before, and always “surprised” us with the news, as if we were so unobservant (and ignorant) not to notice the signs! Still, it seems a positive sign that she considers us adult enough to be trusted with the news.

In the same letter, she also told us of your plan to move the School – though please don’t worry, since none of us would dream of passing on this information – and I had to let you know how pleased I am with the idea. Although, during my schooldays, I was quite content to stay on the Platz, I can see a host of advantages to your scheme, which I think outweigh the disadvantages by quite a large amount.

Chief amongst these will be the ability to recruit and retain staff, I think, and I would expect most of the current staff (both teaching, admin and domestic) would approve the move: this would give them more scope for their days off and more to do outside school. Writing as someone who intends to teach, I’d much sooner teach in a school which wasn’t isolated, nor located in a predominantly English enclave. I also think that you could increase the proportion of day girls and include more Swiss pupils, which could help the School to integrate more closely with the town. The girls will also enjoy the chance to make visits to galleries, concerts, or the cinema, without these having to be special trips, with motor-coaches making heavy weather of the road down from the Platz. Being able to go into town would be looked upon as a privilege for the Seniors, one reluctantly lost. The only disadvantage I can see is the loss of winter sports, but there wouldn’t be the same disruption to lessons during bad weather, either. Games could become more than just inter-form affairs, and school teams could play matches with local schools. I’m sure that possibility would encourage girls who aren’t particularly academic, but who are sporty.

In short, I think it’s a simply splendid idea, and I almost wish I was part of it!

Of course, all this begs the question of what is to happen to the San, but I expect Daddy and Uncle Jem will discuss this when they visit you soon. It isn’t likely to last much longer as a place to treat TB alone, is it? Mamma hinted as much in her letter – she seems resigned to the idea of leaving the Platz at some point.

Lastly, and most disloyally, it feels, I think it would do the School and Mamma good if they were not to be located next door to each other. Mamma is too attached to it: we still receive letters from her which detail the misdeeds of new Middles, and give news of Old Girls whom only she remembers. And I think her presence prevents the Prefects and staff from fully assuming care over the pupils. Too often it has been Mamma “butting in” to sort out a problem pupil, when I’m sure Auntie Hilda or any of the other staff, were perfectly capable of doing the same. And perhaps she might have more time for her own family: the younger ones have complained sometimes that they never see enough of their parents, and that the boys in particular were banished to school for most of the year.

I feel that I ought not to write such things, but you know that it’s only because I’m concerned for the kids. Perhaps you could talk to Mamma when you next see her – for she won’t take any notice of me, I think.

I hope you and the family are well – I owe Josette a letter, but if you’re writing to her or to Sybil, please do give them my love (and to you and the rest of the family as well!).

With love from your affectionate niece,
Helena

Author:  ibarhis [ Mon Jun 16, 2008 11:57 am ]
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Helena taking the bull by the horns with a vengeance!

I would love to hear the reaction in the Russell household to that missive...

Author:  Lesley [ Mon Jun 16, 2008 12:03 pm ]
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Very impressive and adult letter to Madge - basically writing to her aunt in the same way that Madge wrote to her - as two adults, able to speak of subjects in a mature way - even when it comes to speaking of Joey. Like Helena's view on how the School move will be a good thing all round.


Thanks Emma.

Author:  Alison H [ Mon Jun 16, 2008 12:29 pm ]
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Good to see the close relationship between Len and Madge. I can imagine Len having more in common with Madge, another one who had responsibility thrust on her at an early age, than with Joey.

Thanks Emma :D .

Author:  PaulineS [ Mon Jun 16, 2008 1:29 pm ]
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Thank you for the letter. Helena's understanding of the situations shows great maturity, I hope Masge cen help Joey see that she need to concentrate on her own younger children not others.

Author:  crystaltips [ Mon Jun 16, 2008 3:25 pm ]
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I am more inpressed by Helena's maturity with each letter.

Thanks, Emma

Author:  Emma A [ Mon Jun 16, 2008 6:35 pm ]
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Miss Hilda Annersley to Lady Russell

Chalet School
Gornetz Platz
1st June 196-

My dear Madge,

We see quite enough of Joey in the normal run of things without you giving her a legitimate excuse to haunt the place. I gather that you have asked her to gauge the thoughts and opinions of the staff to any proposed move of the school. I also know that you are quite well aware that I had already consulted both the visiting and resident staff in their teaching, administration and domestic capacities.

Their opinion, which largely mirrors my own, is that moving the school to some other location would be eminently practical and desirable. We would miss some members of staff, who would stay with their families on the Platz (though more about that later) – Biddy Courvoisier, for example, whom we would be sorry to lose – but the majority would be quite happy to move with us. Lausanne seems a favoured destination, with Geneva a close second.

I have, naturally, not mentioned the possibilities to any of the girls, and it may be worthwhile to write to some of the pupils who have more recently departed, to obtain their comments. Having no opinion of Jo’s discretion, however, I have assumed that she has talked to the Triplets about the proposals. They three certainly would be among those whom I would suggest as former pupils to consult. Indeed, Helena has already demonstrated to me her thoughtfulness and maturity regarding scholastic methods, befitting one who intends to follow the teaching profession. She, however, intends to teach in state schools, having already avowed to me that she would not return to the Chalet School, even to Glendower House. I admire the idealism which inspires her – I do hope that she won’t find the reality overwhelming.

I’m becoming increasingly worried about Jo – and, to be frank, more than a little exasperated. She bounced into the Staff room on Thursday evening last week – after a particularly exhausting day in which almost everything and everyone had caused problems for the staff – announced in clarion tones that she had great news for us, and expected us to be thrilled to hear that she was “going to be busy” in a couple of months’ time. Admittedly, she had chosen the wrong day if she wanted enthusiasm, for most of us were far too exhausted to congratulate her (please don’t worry, by the way – it was just a tiresome outbreak from the Middles, failure to deliver some much-needed equipment, various fuses blowing and other small, yet annoying, things going wrong which took time to put right).

Then she wanted to see Felicity and Cecil, who were at prep – Cecil is a clever girl, but Felicity is not, and needs a sufficient time for preparation – which I refused, and which she took badly. I think, perhaps, that she feels she is losing the older girls, particularly Helena, and is thus trying to cling to her younger daughters. However, understanding why and tolerating this behaviour are two entirely different things, and at present I am in no mood to pander to Jo’s moods.

I don’t think that any of Jo’s queries regarding how the staff would feel about a move produced and new comments, and indeed she failed to talk to any of the domestic staff. Miss Franck’s appointment, by the way, has been a great success, and has considerably reduced Rosalie’s workload: she will be able to take over much of the administration to enable Rosalie to have some well-needed time to herself, and they share the duties with equal competence. I am also of the opinion that we should have a Bursar to help on the financial side – increasingly parents and pupils are asking for additional extra-curricular activities and expecting certain facilities, such as a swimming pool, proper science laboratories, and so on. If we’re to continue as a school known for providing an excellent, all-round education, then we need to start thinking about how to raise the money for the building (or renting of buildings) to house such improvements.

Are you able to tell me more about plans for the San? Given by what Biddy has hinted about the reducing numbers of tubercular patients admitted to the San, due to treatment with new antibiotics, I would imagine that Sir James has three options: to close down the San completely in Switzerland, and repatriate or compensate the staff; to move it elsewhere; or to maintain it in its current location. I can see that the latter two choices would be feasible only if the San moved from specialising in TB to incorporating other specialities. If the San does move, or the emphasis of its treatment changes, then it will no longer be necessary to maintain such close links between it and the School.

Whatever is decided, there will be big changes afoot for the School: do please contact me at any time for discussion.

For now, I send best wishes to you and the family. Please do also convey my regards to the staff at Glendower House when you next visit.

Yours affectionately,
Hilda

Author:  Lesley [ Mon Jun 16, 2008 7:37 pm ]
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I love Hilda's opinion of Joey!!!! :lol: Think she was remarkably restrained in her language yet managed to get her point across extremely well! :lol:

Joey really does need to think a little here - of course the Staff are going to less than enthusiastic about anything when they've had a dreadful day - and expecting Felicity and Cecil to be released to her at any time is very unfair on both the girls themselves and the School.

Such a pity because Hilda does, i know, consider Joey to be a close friend - it was very obvious when Phil was ill - but Joey doesn't appreciate that there is a time for friendship and a time for discretion


Thanks Emma.

Author:  Jennie [ Mon Jun 16, 2008 8:40 pm ]
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Which just proves that Jo needs to wake up, grow up, and realise that she isn't the centre of the universe.

Author:  PaulineS [ Mon Jun 16, 2008 9:34 pm ]
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Is Helena or Joey the child in this universe? I know which one I think has grown up more.

Author:  Clare [ Mon Jun 16, 2008 10:03 pm ]
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Totally agree Pauline - and I feel so sorry for the staff! There's nothing worse than trying to have a quiet break in the staffroom when someone turns up unannounced and demands everyone's attention!

Author:  Alison H [ Mon Jun 16, 2008 10:48 pm ]
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Oh poor Hilda! Glad to hear that Rosalie's got an assistant at last, not impressed that Joey didn't speak to any of the domestic staff, and think Hilda has been very restrained in not telling Joey where to go.

Thanks Emma - this is wonderful.

Author:  Celia [ Mon Jun 16, 2008 11:02 pm ]
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Thanks for two more excellent letters Emma.

I'm normally very fond of Jo, but she is far too old now to be dashing
into the school and behaving as if she were still in her early twenties,
and everybody's darling. :roll:

Author:  Mona [ Tue Jun 17, 2008 7:07 am ]
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Thanks Emma. Two lovely, contrasting letters.

Quote:
We see quite enough of Joey in the normal run of things without you giving her a legitimate excuse to haunt the place.

:D :D

Author:  meerium [ Tue Jun 17, 2008 11:16 am ]
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I don't know if I've commented so far, but if I haven't, it's decidedly remiss of me because I've been reading these avidly! They're a wondeful, and decidedly plausible version of the post-series world. Thanks, Emma!

Author:  leahbelle [ Tue Jun 17, 2008 5:24 pm ]
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Thanks, Emma. It's interesting to read about Hilda's opinion of Jo.

Author:  jilianb [ Tue Jun 17, 2008 6:34 pm ]
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Thanks Emma. Lovely to see how much Helena has grown as a person and how little Jo has.

Author:  Fiona Mc [ Wed Jun 18, 2008 3:36 pm ]
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Thanks Emma. Loved the letters between everyone. Can't wait to see more

Author:  patmac [ Wed Jun 18, 2008 7:26 pm ]
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I've just caught up on the two last letters - I think Jo is getting on everyone's nerves! I should think Hilda and all her staff are praying that the new 'bundle of joy' will be a boy - otherwise they've another 18 years of Jo to put up with!

Thank you for a very entertaining and plausible drabble.

Author:  crystaltips [ Wed Jun 18, 2008 8:59 pm ]
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Quote:
She bounced into the Staff room on Thursday evening last week


I can just see it! I can also see Hilda giving Joey short shrift - she still seems to have no grip on reality! :shock:

Wonder what Madge will say to Joey in her next?

Thanks Emma

Author:  Anjali [ Thu Jun 19, 2008 1:44 am ]
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Good for Hilda! I would love to see Joey having to make an appointment to see any of the staff instead of just 'bouncing in'. Thanks Emma!

Author:  JellySheep [ Thu Jun 19, 2008 10:21 am ]
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If I haven't said so before (and if I have, I'll say it again) this is great. All continuations avidly read...

Author:  Tara [ Fri Jun 20, 2008 12:10 am ]
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I haven't been able to post much lately and am about to go away for a fortnight, but I just wanted to say how much I'm enjoying this - wonderful letter from Hilda! I look forward to catching up when I come back.

Author:  Aishwarya [ Fri Jun 20, 2008 9:23 am ]
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I've just discovered this thread! These letters are wonderful; thank you Emma.

Author:  Emma A [ Fri Jun 20, 2008 1:52 pm ]
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Mr. Stephen Maynard to Miss Helena Maynard

Winchester College
June 3rd 196-

Dear Len, Helena, or what you will,

I expect you’ve heard from Mater about the prospective new addition to the family – as if eleven aren’t enough! Honestly, how awkward is it to admit that soon one will have a younger brother or sister young enough to be one’s own child? I’m not sure I like the idea, frankly. Do you? Charles and Mike waxed indignant – to me – when I told them about it. They’re at the ages to be easily embarrassed by the unusual, but I can’t say that I was entirely happy, either – thought naturally I haven’t told them so.

Felix told me in his last letter that Geoff calls Rosli “Mutti”, and feels that, because he’s not delicate, like Phil, that Mum and Dad don’t love him. I almost bawled myself when I read that: the poor kid: how on earth can we reassure him?

And it’s about time that Rosli and Anna had a rest from looking after babies as a full-time occupation: if it’s not full siblings then there are wards and adoptees. I don’t think it’s Mamma who nurses Claire, for instance. Last summer hols, I still can’t forget how it was Rosli taking the twins and Claire for walks, and reading stories to them, and staying behind with them while we went on expeditions; nor how we two offered to help, to look after the kids for a day, at least, so that they could join the others. Instead, Mum cheerfully told that this was our holiday, and that we were jolly well to enjoy it. I don’t know that I did manage to enjoy the rest of the holiday after that, and I don’t suppose you did, either.

On the one hand, we’re expected to be responsible, and yet on the other still treated as children. Which do they want?

I’m sorry to unload my frustration on you, because you must feel it even more strongly, being older – and you have the added expectation of being the eldest of all of us (and naturally responsible. Or did you just have responsibility thrust upon you?). Enough of that, anyway, or I’ll just end up repeating myself.

I’ve been meaning to write to you for ages about Reg. In a way I’m rather sad about it, because I like him, and thought he would look after you. But perhaps you don’t need that, but rather not to have to look after everyone else. I guess it wasn’t an easy decision for you, so if you want any support – it’s yours. I’d like to meet Isaac, but perhaps it won’t be possible until the new term starts in October.

Incidentally, the parents think it odd of me to want to study at Imperial College – it’s as if no university apart from Oxford (or Edinburgh) actually exists! Mum in particular is worrying that I’m only applying to Imperial because I think I won’t make Oxford! I could, according to Lyneham, but they’re quite happy for me not to (the school, I mean) – after all, they have dozens of boys going to Oxford or Cambridge, so it doesn’t matter if Maynard prime will be studying somewhere else next term. I am looking forward to it. I’m studying hard – which is made easy here – and hoping the exams, when they’re over, will have gone well.

We’ve been quite close, haven’t we, despite the gap in age, and those years in my mid-teens when I resented you (and the other Trips) for being older: but we’ve never really talked together about our hopes and fears. When you first became engaged to Reg, I was probably too young to really understand what you were promising to undertake. Now, it’s clearer to me, and I’m sure I couldn’t do it myself – of course, not that anyone would agree to me marrying anyone at this stage of my life. Odd, isn’t it, how it would have been acceptable for you, at my age, to marry Reg, but definitely not for me to marry, say, Miss Ferrars (or any of the other mistresses at the Chalet School)! There isn’t anyone for me yet, but I’m sure there will be: when there is, I shall tell you all about her.

I suppose what I really mean to say, though I think when it’s written down will sound rather soppy, is this: I’m proud to call you my sister, Helena, and wish you all the very best, with Isaac or without.

With love,
Steve

PS Good luck for your exams, by the way.

Author:  Liz K [ Fri Jun 20, 2008 2:12 pm ]
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Oooooooooohhhhhhhhhh, I love that last paragraph. :cry:

Author:  Chelsea [ Fri Jun 20, 2008 2:24 pm ]
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Awww, that letter (especially the end) was beautiful. Though very sad to read about the relationship between Joey and her children (especially Geoff). Steve was rather perceptive about Rosli and Anna.

Author:  Alison H [ Fri Jun 20, 2008 4:01 pm ]
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That was lovely. We don't see much of Steve in the books but, when we do, it sounds as if he's the other member of the family who gets a load of responsibility dumped on him from a early age.

Author:  Mona [ Fri Jun 20, 2008 4:09 pm ]
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What a lovely letter from Steve! Thanks Emma.

Author:  Jenefer [ Fri Jun 20, 2008 5:18 pm ]
Post subject: 

Thanks Emma this is wonderful

Author:  Emma A [ Fri Jun 20, 2008 6:11 pm ]
Post subject: 

Alison H wrote:
That was lovely. We don't see much of Steve in the books but, when we do, it sounds as if he's the other member of the family who gets a load of responsibility dumped on him from a early age.

Someone else wrote in the discussion about Joey Goes to the Oberland, I think, about how Joey says with pride how responsible Len and Steve are in that book, and then the CBB-er (sorry, can't remember who) points out that the children are respectively ten and seven years old, and trusted to look after the other six children!

Author:  jilianb [ Fri Jun 20, 2008 6:22 pm ]
Post subject: 

Thanks Emma, what a lovely letter from Steve

Author:  Lesley [ Fri Jun 20, 2008 7:08 pm ]
Post subject: 

Very realistic letter from Steve - who must be eighteen at this time? Only thing I did wonder about was why Joey told him about the baby, but not Charles - surely Charles is only a year younger, isn't he? And does that mean she didn't intend telling anyone else in the family?


Pleasd he is so supportive.


Thanks Emma.

Author:  Emma A [ Fri Jun 20, 2008 7:13 pm ]
Post subject: 

Lesley wrote:
Very realistic letter from Steve - who must be eighteen at this time? Only thing I did wonder about was why Joey told him about the baby, but not Charles - surely Charles is only a year younger, isn't he? And does that mean she didn't intend telling anyone else in the family?

I assumed that the elder three boys were at the same school, and therefore that Joey would have written to Steve, knowing that he would tell the others (like she wrote to both Con and Helena).

Author:  Lesley [ Fri Jun 20, 2008 8:49 pm ]
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Ah yes - that would make sense - thanks Emma. :lol:

Author:  Tara [ Fri Jun 20, 2008 8:59 pm ]
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Splendid letter - but so sad that Geoff treats Rosli as his mother. Steve is an impressive young man.

Thanks, Emma.

Author:  wheelchairprincess [ Fri Jun 20, 2008 9:27 pm ]
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Yay Steve! But does Joey know what Geoff calls Rosli? (too many names there, blah). Because I can't wait to see *that* letter.

Author:  Kadi [ Fri Jun 20, 2008 11:42 pm ]
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I loved reading something from Steven's perspective. The boys seemed to often be forgotten.

Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sat Jun 21, 2008 1:17 am ]
Post subject: 

Tara wrote:
Splendid letter - but so sad that Geoff treats Rosli as his mother.


I think that's pretty understandable given how much the kids were raised by Rosli and Anna.

That was a really sweet letter

Author:  crystaltips [ Sat Jun 21, 2008 9:07 pm ]
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Fantastic letter.

*love the salutation*
((((Geoff)))
(((& overworked Rosli)))
(((Steve))) for the whole letter & especially the last paragraph.

:poke: Joey for offloading onto Helena, Steve, Anna & Rosli!

Thanks, Emma.

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Sun Jun 22, 2008 1:35 am ]
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Three wonderful letters for me to catch up with here - clearly Steve seems to be possessed of the same clear thinking abilities as Helena is. Some of his comments were extremely perceptive. IT's good to see how he and Helena relate to each other as they are reaching adulthood.

Thanks, Emma

Author:  Anjali [ Sun Jun 22, 2008 1:59 am ]
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I'm really liking Steve here - seems like he understands Helena very well. Would like to see Joey's reaction to Steve's comment about Miss Ferrars :) !!!

Author:  Jennie [ Sun Jun 22, 2008 8:59 pm ]
Post subject: 

I'm glad the rest of the family are supporting Helena.

ETA: is Jo overdoing the 'mother' bit because she can't remember her own mother, so she's overcompensating?

Author:  Billie [ Sun Jun 22, 2008 9:31 pm ]
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It's nice to see this letter from Steven. I never get much of a sense of his character from the books, except for being another "responsible" one, no doubt because of being shipped off to school from a young age.

Author:  JellySheep [ Mon Jun 23, 2008 12:08 pm ]
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Loved the Steve/Miss Ferrars suggestion - sounds like a promising starting point for a hilarious story

Author:  abbeybufo [ Mon Jun 23, 2008 9:28 pm ]
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Thanks Emma, just caught up with the last three letters - especially like Stephen's, but loved Helena's woman-to-woman tone in hers to Madge too, and good for Hilda telling Madge off for sending Jo in to 'interfere' :D

Author:  alicat [ Tue Jun 24, 2008 9:57 am ]
Post subject: 

Just to play devils advocate for a minute :twisted: :twisted: :twisted:

I am loving reading these but can't help wondering where they stand in the nature v nurture debate:

as all the Maynard children seem to be turning out splendidly here, what does that tell us about Jack and Jo as parents??
After all, that is often how people's parenting successes are judged, by the way their children then tackle life.

Discuss: Do we prefer this view of things to that portrayed in the often much maligned Chalet Girls Grow Up, where some but not all of the Maynard tribe turn out to be inadequate adults in one way or another and this is blamed on the inadequacy of their parenting??

No disrespect meant to the author of these drabbles at all, I love reading them and admire her ability to think inside another person's head, but that little thought just popped into my mind...and I thought I'd share it.


ooooohhhh :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: just noticed the slogan/motto/whatever you call it under my avatar (is that the right word??) and realised how appropriate it is to this post!! serendipity at work!!!

Author:  JayB [ Tue Jun 24, 2008 10:47 am ]
Post subject: 

Quote:
as all the Maynard children seem to be turning out splendidly here, what does that tell us about Jack and Jo as parents??


Well, we've only heard directly from the four eldest and Felicity. We don't know so much about the others, and they're mostly too young as yet to know one way or the other anyway.

Since they've all been at boarding school from a young age, one could argue that school would have had as much influence as their parents on how they turned out. Even in the books it was school that did most to straighten Margot out, for example. Jack was only involved after the event in the Theodora affair and we don't know that Jack and Jo ever knew about Betty and the bookend.

I notice that Steve raises the question of nature vs nurture in his letter - was Helena naturally responsible as a child, or did she have responsibility forced upon her?

Lovely letter from Steve, looking forward to seeing who we hear from next!

Author:  Emma A [ Fri Jun 27, 2008 1:16 pm ]
Post subject: 

Have written one more letter at present, but it needs typing up before I can post it. Thanks for all the comments - and Alicat, you've given me something to think about... :twisted:

Author:  Elle [ Mon Jun 30, 2008 2:02 pm ]
Post subject: 

Emma A wrote:
Have written one more letter at present, but it needs typing up before I can post it. Thanks for all the comments - and Alicat, you've given me something to think about... :twisted:


Damn! I thought this was an update! Oh well...

Author:  Jennie [ Mon Jun 30, 2008 2:16 pm ]
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So did I, Elle. Feeling quite downcast.

Author:  Jennie [ Tue Jul 01, 2008 1:32 pm ]
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Bumping this up, in case Emma A sees it.

I'm undecided whether to whinge or chant. Either would be equally painful for the audience, but I'm quite disinclined to be merciful.

Author:  Emma A [ Tue Jul 01, 2008 5:48 pm ]
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Hint taken, Jennie :D

Mr Solomon Mendel to Mr Isaac Mendel

Creed Court
London
June 4th 196-

Dear Isaac,

So what’s this I hear about you and a Gentile girl? Are Mum and Dad perfectly happy about the idea? Did you know that Grandpa had some sort of agreement with the Chmoulians that you would marry Susanna? Anyway, that was all a very long time ago, and besides the wench is dead – well, married. As I recall, you weren’t unhappy with the idea. What is she like? Miss Maynard, I mean. I wonder what her family think of the relationship.

I once had a Christian girlfriend – her name was Barbara – it’s a long time ago, so you may not remember. She was lovely – pretty and sweet-natured, kind, a good cook, and intelligent enough to hold her own in an argument. Even the parents liked her, and she was very interested in Jewish culture – at least, at first. But her family weren’t happy about it. They would honestly have rather seen her being courted by – I don’t know – a garage attendant who was C of E, than me. And her friends weren’t much better: call me sensitive, but there were a lot of stalled conversations and surreptitious murmurs whenever we met up with them. There was nothing overt, just the sense that they would all have rather not seen me with her. Barbara and I didn’t last, as you know – she broke it off, but nicely, and I was inconsolable for weeks before realising that she had been right to do so.

I’m not saying that Miss Maynard’s friends or family will be like that – just that you need to be aware that it can happen. I guess they’ll be more broad-minded, having lived abroad for so long.

Anyway, I hope things go better for you two than they did for us!

How are you anyway? Are you doing exams about now? Best of luck if you are: if not, then I suppose you’ll be amongst them soon. I found my own Finals rather nerve-racking, but you’re better at exams than I am, it would seem: so if I can pass well, so can you. Though I don’t suppose you’re really worrying, so sanguine a temperament as you have.

I was invited for the weekend to Cousin Ferdinand’s country place last weekend. I hadn’t been there for ages, probably not since I was about your age, and it was still impressive – but so full of stuff. Certainly I’m sure I wouldn’t want to live there, and I’m not sure how Judith stands it. She seems to survive quite well, looking after her father, and filling the house every so often with guests, and coming down to London occasionally. In fact, we’ve been seeing rather a lot of each other lately. We seem to be coming to some sort of understanding, though it will all depend on how Cousin Ferdinand takes the idea, since it would mean her leaving him. Understandably, she’s wary of broaching the subject to him.

You might think it odd in us, since we’ve known each other for so long, and we’re neither of us precisely youthful (in comparison to a certain younger brother!) – thirty does seem rather old to be married, at least for a woman, and Judith is my age. I don’t know how to describe it, just that wherever she is, even the Manor stuffed with furniture, seems like home. It certainly isn’t the feeling of one’s youthful first love – passionate, ardent, and swift in the ending – but strong, enduring and tender. How do you think you’d like Judith as a sister-in-law?

I went to St Paul’s yesterday for an organ recital: some intriguing juxtapositions of Bach and Buxtehude with Alain (Jehan, not Albert) and Messiaen. I went for the Bach, naturally, but I did enjoy the Alain, too, very quick and strange and with odd harmonies. Are you able to practise much? We must have a musical evening when you come down – does Miss Maynard play or sing? I have bought a new ‘cello (rather an extravagance, but well worth it – the sound is simply glorious) and am looking forward to trying some of our old favourites.

When do you start at Lenham Briggs? Let me know and I’ll make a point of inviting you for lunch – pupils are allowed some time off, I think! I guess you’ll be living at home, but if you feel you’d rather be closer to chambers, I’ll have a scout round for some rooms for you. Do let me know as soon as possible.

Anyway, good fortune for Finals, and do tell me more about your Miss Maynard.

With love from your affectionate brother,
Sol

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Tue Jul 01, 2008 6:15 pm ]
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Sensible, pragmatic - not at all patronising, especially considering the age gap between them - what a nice brother to have. Not afraid to ask somewhat awkward questions either, but clearly Sol has his brother's best interests at heart. I doubt if his cautionary tale of his own experience with Barbara will change Isaac's mind about Helena, either, though I can see why Sol felt he had to mention it.

Thanks, Emma.

Author:  Lesley [ Tue Jul 01, 2008 7:15 pm ]
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A very decent older brother there - though he may be a little wrong about the living abroad means family will be more broad minded!


Thanks Emma.

Author:  Carolyn P [ Tue Jul 01, 2008 9:12 pm ]
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Wow, just read these through from the beginning and they are excellent. One of the best drabbles I've read in a while. The characters come across so well in the letters and they portray what is happening so clearly.
Look forward to reading the rest.

Author:  Alison H [ Tue Jul 01, 2008 10:43 pm ]
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Isaac's brother sounds great.

Author:  Luisa [ Wed Jul 02, 2008 12:59 am ]
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In fact, so does the entire clan so far! Helena will be very lucky in her in-laws. Wish one could say the same of Isaac.

Author:  Jennie [ Wed Jul 02, 2008 2:06 pm ]
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Yes, I do get the feeling that the Mendels will be far more accepting of Helena than the Maynards will be of Isaac. But I keep remembering that Madge will welcome Isaac because she puts her niece's happiness before herself.

Author:  Emma A [ Wed Jul 02, 2008 9:46 pm ]
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Mrs John Maynard to Miss Helena Maynard

Freudesheim
Gornetz Platz
June 9th 196-

Dearest Len,

Thank-you for your letter – I am trying to keep out of mischief, though with the proofs of my last book now checked and sent to the publisher, and without a new plot simmering, I’m feeling somewhat at a loose end. So far no mishaps! I haven’t thought yet of names for the baby, and although Nadège is pretty, it’s rather fancy to go with Maynard. I’m wondering if Anne or Lily would do for a girl, with Neil or Francis for a boy.

Ah, well, there’s time enough for naming: I called you girls “One”, “Two” and “Three” for several days before you were all named! It doesn’t seem to have made any difference.

I suppose I shouldn’t be annoyed, but your father and I had not yet told the younger children about the new addition to the family. Your letter to Felicity, therefore, was rather unwelcome, and led to a great number of questions for which we were unprepared. Still, I didn’t ask you not to mention it, so must accept that you wrote only to enjoy news which you supposed they had already heard. Perhaps it is all for the best, after all.

I am a little surprised at your enthusiasm for the proposed move of the school, though it seems that the Staff share your views. If Auntie Madge does decide to go ahead with the move, she will have no lack of support from the mistresses. Someone suggested that the school return to Tyrol, now that the Soviets have relinquished their claims, and it would be safe to establish the school again, but I don’t think that this is being seriously considered, mainly because of the lack of suitable buildings at the Tiernsee, and the expense of building. We were very lucky to be able to buy our chalet when we did: I still write to Herr Helfen, and let him know how things go with us.

I’ve been thinking over seriously what you (and Auntie Madge) have written and I’m coming to think that perhaps we rather did push you and Con, particularly, too hard academically. And we thought Margot was doing badly by being in the right form for her year, instead of two years ahead, as you two were. Do you really think that you won’t do as well as Con? I’m so accustomed to thinking of you – all three of you, perhaps – as so very clever that I can’t imagine you doing anything other than excellently. The only things I was ever good at were History and languages: I detested maths and science with a passion, and was only too glad to give them up. I do want to understand, but perhaps I’m too ignorant about what university study involves – none of you really have managed to convey how such teaching feels. We’re so glad that you carried on with your course, and are sorry that you felt it could have come to giving up that long-held dream.

When I read your last letter, I was indignant again at the slurs cast upon the school by your tutor, but what made me stop and think for a moment was your comment about experiencing the local culture – and you’re right, there’s very little of this at the Platz, certainly when I think back to how the school started, and how we were at the heart of the village, and were able to help the folk there, and mix with many locals and visitors. None of that happens now, does it? I remember

June 11th

I was suddenly called away from letter writing by a domestic emergency (the washing machine decided to flood all over the laundry floor, and is awaiting a repairman. The family’s laundry is mounting up alarmingly, and we’ve had to get out the old copper and mangle to wash the kids’ clothes, which get dirty so quickly – I’ve been doing the cooking since Anna is doing the laundry, and you know what a joke my attempts at cooking are – there has been much wailing and gnashing of teeth!), and haven’t had time until now to finish this. Of course, now the flow has been broken, and I can’t remember what I was about to write!

Reg came round yesterday evening. He is looking terrible – as though he hasn’t slept for days, and he has lost weight. Anna made him eat an omelette which she concocted, for she was horrified at the look of him: at least he did eat it, and looked a little better after it and a good cup of tea. I am still sorry that you’ve decided that you can’t marry him, but that’s more because I am very fond of Reg, and thought he would look after you. However, better to decide now than marry without love, and make both yourselves unhappy. I don’t mean to make you unhappy by pointing out Reg’s state, but I know you are still fond of him – there must still be affection there, surely? – and will want to know how he is. He has arranged to take his leave when you come back with us, and will go walking in Carinthia with an old schoolfriend of his.

Anyway, I must go now, since it is time I started preparations for dinner.

With much love, dearest, from
Mamma

Author:  Lesley [ Wed Jul 02, 2008 10:19 pm ]
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Well she is trying, at least, and she does actually seemed to have taken in both Madge and Helena's letters. The point about Len and Con being so far above their age group is good - but rather too late now - I hope they don't attempt to push any of their other girls so much. Like the point about Joey not knowing what University education means - and that she was able to accept that the Swiss School was so isolated. However Joey did NOT need to mention about Reg. :roll:


Thanks Emma.

Author:  Clare [ Wed Jul 02, 2008 11:31 pm ]
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Argh! Joey was doing so well until that guilt loaded final paragraph! Still, it's nice to see her taking heed of her daughter and her sister. Hurrah for some sense sinking in!!

Thanks Emma :D

Author:  Luisa [ Thu Jul 03, 2008 12:47 am ]
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Only a B+, Joey - must try harder.

Author:  Anjali [ Thu Jul 03, 2008 1:54 am ]
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Two new letters, you're spoiling us Emma! :)
I agree that this latest letter from Joey is much better but still shows room for improvement.

Author:  Alison H [ Thu Jul 03, 2008 7:43 am ]
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Well, that was better - although there was no need to harp on about Reg like that.

Author:  Jennie [ Thu Jul 03, 2008 12:36 pm ]
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Better, even accepting that she is not the fount of all wisdom for each and every circumstance, but could do much better on the Reg front.

And still trying to pretend that a new baby is a surprise for everyone?

Author:  crystaltips [ Thu Jul 03, 2008 12:38 pm ]
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Two smashing letters. I do like the sound of Solomon. He seems like the sort of brother one could go to for advice & supoport.
I was really impressed with Joey's leter - right up to the last para. Oh well, I wouldn't have believed it if she didn't drop a clanger somewhere :roll:
Thanks, Emma

Author:  Abi [ Thu Jul 03, 2008 3:42 pm ]
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Oh, I think that was a much better letter, compared with what has gone before. After all, Reg has been a family friend for years (though she couls have been a bit more tactful about it!). I'm sure Helena would appreciate that Joey is really trying to understand things from someone else's point of view.

Author:  leahbelle [ Thu Jul 03, 2008 5:23 pm ]
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Joey's certainly making an effort. Thanks!

Author:  Vick [ Wed Jul 09, 2008 8:37 pm ]
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just found this & read straight through from the beginning. It's very well written & I like the way you portray the characters.

Thanks Emma. Looking forward to more.... :D

Author:  Jennie [ Fri Jul 11, 2008 1:34 pm ]
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As are we all. Nag, nag, nag.

Author:  Elle [ Sun Jul 13, 2008 11:09 pm ]
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Jennie wrote:
As are we all. Nag, nag, nag.



*joins in the nagging*


:D :D :D :D :D :D

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Mon Jul 14, 2008 12:09 am ]
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Jennie, Elle and anyone else who, like me, is eager for more of this - Emma posted a note on June 6, saying she was working 'on site' for the next few weeks and wouldn't be able to post so frequently. I'm sure she will do so when she can. :) Hope this helps.

Author:  Emma A [ Tue Jul 15, 2008 6:20 pm ]
Post subject: 

Elder in Ontario wrote:
Jennie, Elle and anyone else who, like me, is eager for more of this - Emma posted a note on June 6, saying she was working 'on site' for the next few weeks and wouldn't be able to post so frequently. I'm sure she will do so when she can. :) Hope this helps.

:oops: I feel rather ashamed at the championship, Elder, since I am now back from site and able to post. However, I haven't written the next letter yet! Hopefully I will get some more written when I'm on holiday next week (in between intervals of singing!) to post when I get back.

Author:  JackieP [ Wed Jul 16, 2008 12:57 pm ]
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Emma A wrote:
Hopefully I will get some more written when I'm on holiday next week (in between intervals of singing!)


I must say that sounds worryingly like my sort of holiday, in a semi-working sort of way...

Have a good time... :D

JackieP

Author:  Fiona Mc [ Wed Jul 16, 2008 2:20 pm ]
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Thanks Emma, glad Joey is trying in that last letter

Author:  Jennie [ Wed Jul 30, 2008 4:03 pm ]
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Where's the next letter(s), then?

Author:  snowmaiden [ Wed Jul 30, 2008 8:59 pm ]
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*Agrees with Jennie*

Just finished reading this, it has ben a non-v busy day at work thank heaven as I was totally addicted. Thanks Emma, the letters are really well written.

*Applauds wildly and hollers for more*

Author:  Emma A [ Fri Aug 01, 2008 9:13 am ]
Post subject: 

Sorry for the long delay... here's another letter.

Miss Theodora Grantley to Miss Helena Maynard

London
June 15th 196-

Dear Helena,

I know I didn’t intend to write to you again before exams, but I felt I had to – there’s just too much happening for me to take everything with any degree of equanimity.

Cousin May wrote to me just after I’d written to you, and she came up to London and we had lunch together, and talked. Naturally she didn’t encourage me to complain about Mother, but it’s always been obvious that she doesn’t entirely approve of her (Cousin May of Mother, that is). Anyway, she said that she’d written to Hal and Francis about Mother – rather stressing, I think, that it was quite time they stopped thinking that just because they were overseas that they could leave caring for Mother to kind words and flowers. Apparently Hal’s wife Vivienne point blank refused to have Mother in their house (they’ve met before and really didn’t get on), but Frank and Liliane wrote to offer to have her stay with them for a few months, and even offering to pay for her travel, too, which was extremely generous! So I waved Mother off yesterday on a liner bound for New York – then Frank will meet her there and bear her off by train to Toronto, and from thence to their home.

The relief is quite astonishing (and rather shaming). I don’t have to worry about her for months and months, and who knows, she may like Canada!

So, I had barely begun with revising Jurisprudence that evening (and that was something of a come-down – since I felt I ought to be celebrating), when Mrs C. came to my door with the most peculiar expression on her face, and intimated that a gentleman had called to see me. I assumed it was Max, though he’d not come round to the house before, and so my flabber couldn’t have been more gasted when I descended – scruffy, ink-stained and less than soignée – to see Lucas Black standing, quite at his ease, in the middle of the Salon (that’s what she calls it, by the way – the sitting room where I’m allowed to entertain guests of the male persuasion. Women are allowed to come up to my room. I jest not.). I think I stared at him for several seconds before regaining my wits and asking him, quite politely, I thought, to sit down.

He said that he’d hoped he would find me in, and apologised for calling without notice. I forgave him graciously, though I obviously didn’t hide the astonishment well enough, and he smiled, and asked me to dinner.

I should have said no. I should have said that I had already dined, thanked him so much for his invitation, and gone up to my room and contemplated the tea and toast I had planned for supper. Instead I accepted, asked for a few minutes to tidy up, made a mad dash for my room to sleek down my hair and change into a frock, whisk some powder and a little lipstick onto my face, and descend again within five minutes. He was chatting to Mrs C., who was extremely interested – and I frankly watched them from the doorway – when I arrived downstairs. We walked to a place in Soho that I hadn’t been to before, serving Greek food, just talking at first about law, and university.

It was when we actually reached the restaurant that I felt I couldn’t stop myself, and asked why the invitation.

He actually blushed – and on a dark-haired, naturally swarthy-skinned man it rather took some doing – and apologised. He admitted that he had thought Max and I were courting (I let out an uncouth snort of laughter at that, and he looked very sheepish), and had therefore backed off. He didn’t say how or why he’d come to realise the truth, but I guess Max told him (and though I should be annoyed with him - Max, that is - I can't bring myself to be cross). He apologised for his lack of observation, and asked me if I liked him.

Amanda would have told me to avoid the question and keep him guessing, but I hate that kind of dishonesty, and admitted that I liked him very much. I’m glad I did, for he sounded so unsure of himself that if I had been vague or teasing, I don’t think he would have said what he did next, and that was (and I’m paraphrasing) that he had been utterly blind and stupid for not realising how sweet and beautiful I was (I grinned at that, but found it touching nonetheless) before now, with barely two weeks of term left, and the probability that we wouldn’t see each other again after graduation.

Anyway, after that declaration, my heart was singing, and we talked and ate, and talked, and we were almost thrown out of the restaurant we were there for so long. Then he walked me home, and on the doorstep, my key in my hand, he kissed me. Very, very softly and delicately, and though it was only the briefest of touches, I shivered. We just looked at each other after: he looked as stunned as I felt. We bade each other good night, and I got out my key and managed to open the door at the second attempt. My feet didn’t touch the stairs.

And we went out together tonight, too, and I feel that we both feel the same way – almost amazed and bewildered – but so happy to be together. We haven’t talked about the future yet, though he knows about and has been encouraging of my hope to join the Bar. He intends to become a solicitor, and had originally intended to return to his home town, Chichester, and practise there.

I can’t remember whether I ever described him to you, but he’s tall – well, almost everyone is taller than me, but he’s at least six feet high – with unruly, very dark brown hair, and very dark grey eyes, and the kind of skin which goes brown very quickly in summer. He likes boating and sailing, and has threatened or promised to take me out on the river by Putney at the weekend. He has an invalid sister, younger than him, of whom he is obviously very fond, and he gets on well with his parents. His father is Dean of the cathedral and his mother writes poetry in her spare time – she writes rather sparely lyrical stuff about nature – I was quite glad to say that I’d read some of it and liked it (there was one I particularly liked about a hawk stooping on some birds, and the way she described the hawk’s flight... ).

I’ve just come in, and I’m not sure if I’m on my head or my heels – what with this, and revision, it’s a good thing I don’t have to worry about Mother for a while! I sat at my desk and the whole story has just come pouring out – please forgive the torrent.

I’ve gone on quite long enough – for which, apologies – but I’m so happy it almost shocks me.

With love from
Teddy


By the way, Walter Hussey was actually Dean of Chichester Cathedral during this period, a notable patron of contemporary artists and musicians.

Author:  JayB [ Fri Aug 01, 2008 9:40 am ]
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Do hope Teddy isn't in such a whirl she's going to neglect her revision.

Quote:
there was one I particularly liked about a hawk stooping on some birds, and the way she described the hawk’s flight...


My immediate reaction on reading this was to wonder when Nicola Marlow began to write poetry. (It would be a very un-Nick-like sort of thing to do, but I imagne that if she did, that would be the sort of thing she'd write.)

Author:  Alison H [ Fri Aug 01, 2008 9:47 am ]
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Good to see Ted so happy!

Author:  Lesley [ Fri Aug 01, 2008 10:52 am ]
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Pleased Miss Carthew (as was) spoke with Ted's brothers about their responsibilities. This Lucas sounds lovely - so good to see Ted so happy. :lol:


Thanks Emma.

Author:  Jennie [ Fri Aug 01, 2008 12:28 pm ]
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Well, that was great for Ted, and Ibet Helena will be pleased. Thanks, Emma, it's great to see this back.

Author:  Mona [ Fri Aug 01, 2008 12:35 pm ]
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Thanks Emma, great to have new letter, and lovely to see Ted so happy.

Author:  abbeybufo [ Fri Aug 01, 2008 2:32 pm ]
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Yay! A new letter!!

Thanks Emma

Author:  Abi [ Fri Aug 01, 2008 3:41 pm ]
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Aw, lovely for Ted, she ought to be happy.

Thanks for the update, Emma.

Author:  leahbelle [ Fri Aug 01, 2008 4:04 pm ]
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Thanks, Emma. That's fab for Ted.

Author:  jilianb [ Fri Aug 01, 2008 4:38 pm ]
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Brilliant, thanks Emma. Glad to hear that Ted's mum is off to Canada and hopefully now she has a real chance of happiness.

Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Fri Aug 01, 2008 7:02 pm ]
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Another great letter, thanks, Emma. I'm glad to see that Ted has been able to ship her mother off to Canada for a while - perhaps the break will also allow her relationship with Lucas Black to flourish. She certainly deserves the chance of happiness.

Author:  JustJen [ Fri Aug 01, 2008 7:33 pm ]
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Another great letter Emma.
Thanks for posting

Author:  BethC [ Fri Aug 01, 2008 8:56 pm ]
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Thanks, Emma - loving these letters!

Author:  Celia [ Fri Aug 01, 2008 10:26 pm ]
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Thanks for the new letter Emma. It's good to see Ted so happy, and excited about the future.

Author:  Carolyn P [ Fri Aug 01, 2008 11:02 pm ]
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Thanks for the update Emma, and good to see Ted happy.

Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sat Aug 02, 2008 7:38 am ]
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Thanks for the update and am glad Ted has something good happen to her

Author:  Anjali [ Sun Aug 03, 2008 9:06 am ]
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Lucas sounds really nice - I'm glad Teddy is finally free from her mother! Thanks Emma.

Author:  Emma A [ Mon Aug 04, 2008 7:24 pm ]
Post subject: 

I don't think Myra Grantley is entirely out of Ted's life, but just for now...

Miss Helena Maynard to Miss Theodora Grantley

Oxford
June 17th 196-

Dear Teddy,

Gosh, you’ve certainly been through a momentous few days – I’m so happy for you, it quite takes my mind off my own difficulties! Seriously, though, I am glad that you’ve been relieved of the immediate worry about your mother (and I’m sure the voyage will do her lots of good, as well as being with her son and daughter-in-law, rather than in England), which will mean making your decision about your future much easier. I’m glad that at least one of your brothers is helping out, since you’ve had to shoulder burdens without much assistance, and for which you weren’t at all prepared. Still, I suppose that’s what being a good Chalet girl is all about, not buckling under pressure!

And as for your revelation about Mr Black – well, I was hoping that it had been merely a misunderstanding, for all you’d written about him before now suggested that he was decent young man and not one to toy with the affections of others (sounding rather like something from a Georgette Heyer novel, aren’t I? I read Venetia the other day for some light relief from German poetry, and very much enjoyed it). I rather giggled to think that it might have been Max to tell Lucas that there was nothing between you two – but it seems a lovely thing to have done. He’s obviously a good friend to you.

Have you ever been to Chichester? I don’t think it’s somewhere we ever visited when we were living in England, though perhaps the boys have been there. What’s Lucas’ mother called? Or rather, under what name does she write? I might have read some of her poetry, and Con almost certainly has!

Anyway, I wish you all the best, and look forward to meeting Lucas when I move to London. I’m looking forward to the move with increasing excitement (what with nerves about exams, last-minute tutorials, and general worry and unhappiness, my stomach is churning, and it’s not a pleasant sensation). Mamma wrote to me again, and most of her letter was lovely, but she mentioned how poorly Reg looks, and I feel terrible all over again. I haven’t told Isaac, though I don’t think he’d be jealous, it’s just that I’m not sure that he understands that there’s still a tie of affection, and to read that Reg is suffering because of something I did is very hard to bear.

Con got very angry with Mamma as a result, unusually for her, who is so calm and unruffled as a rule. But I daresay she is just as worried about exams as I am, and not as relaxed as usual. Still, her anger made me feel a little better.

Oh well, I suppose it can’t be helped. I must just think of REVISION, and forget everything else, however difficult it is, and concentrate. Dr Whitehouse was quite encouraging in my last tutorial, and suggested that I should definitely get an upper Second, but she wasn’t altogether convinced that a First was within my reach. Still, I may pull out something from the bag.

Must dash, since if I hurry I can get this letter in this evening’s post to you.

Much love,
Helena

Author:  Lesley [ Mon Aug 04, 2008 7:31 pm ]
Post subject: 

May we please read about Con being angry with Joey?

Pretty please?

With sugar on top?


Thanks Emma - so sad Helena is being affected so much by all of this.

Author:  Becky [ Mon Aug 04, 2008 7:52 pm ]
Post subject: 

Thanks for the update, Emma

Author:  Jennie [ Mon Aug 04, 2008 8:15 pm ]
Post subject: 

I'd like to see Con being angry with her mother as well. Hint, hint.

Author:  abbeybufo [ Mon Aug 04, 2008 9:04 pm ]
Post subject: 

Jennie wrote:
I'd like to see Con being angry with her mother as well. Hint, hint.


So would I :twisted:

Thanks Emma

Author:  Jennie [ Mon Aug 04, 2008 9:54 pm ]
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Poor Emma, I could feel sorry for her if I weren't enjoying this so much, including nagging her for more.

Author:  Carolyn P [ Mon Aug 04, 2008 10:04 pm ]
Post subject: 

Thanks Emma, I'll add to the pleas. I'd love to see what Con wrote to her mother!

Author:  Alison H [ Mon Aug 04, 2008 10:08 pm ]
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I'd love to know what Con said too, please!

And, yes, it's hard work trying to concentrate on exams when there's other stuff going on too!

Author:  clair [ Mon Aug 04, 2008 10:37 pm ]
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Please let us see Con's next letter to Joey - please!!!!!

Author:  Abi [ Mon Aug 04, 2008 11:02 pm ]
Post subject: 

Would also like to see Con's reaction.

Hope Len doesn't let the pressure affect her exam performance - would be great if she got a first!

Thanks Emma!

Author:  JosieG [ Mon Aug 04, 2008 11:07 pm ]
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Ooh, these are excellent! It's great to see the characters growing up and it feels like you've really captured the era.

Thanks Emma!

Author:  Miss Di [ Wed Aug 06, 2008 5:09 am ]
Post subject: 

JayB wrote:
Quote:
there was one I particularly liked about a hawk stooping on some birds, and the way she described the hawk’s flight...


My immediate reaction on reading this was to wonder when Nicola Marlow began to write poetry. (It would be a very un-Nick-like sort of thing to do, but I imagne that if she did, that would be the sort of thing she'd write.)


Snap! Thant was exactly my thought, trying to fit Nicola into the Chalet School timeline.

Thanks for the updates BTW.

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