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The CBB -> St Agnes's House

#401:  Author: LyanneLocation: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 11:26 am


Poor little girl! I can hear all the excited chatter from the other girls, congratualtions from parents, squeals from younger siblings, olders iblings being coolly appreciative, grandparents giving effusive praise... And here's Grizel, on her own. Please Liz, might Madge & Joey come and speak to her?

 


#402:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 12:25 pm


Awww. Poor Grizel but I'm glad Cookie made it and that Grizel saw her there and got to talk to her.

 


#403:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 5:08 pm


I hope there will be disaproval over her Father and Stepmother not being there.

 


#404:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 5:50 pm


glad someone was there for Grizel at least. poor little girl.

 


#405:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 9:17 pm


Echoes all the 'Poor Grizels' Hope there is some disapproval shown - but that it doesn't rebound on Grizel. Sad

 


#406:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 9:35 pm


Would love to hear that someone mistook Cookie for Irene. Only trouble is that would probably mean Cookie being found out.

 


#407:  Author: LyanneLocation: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2005 10:15 pm


Huh! It was her evening off, no reason for Cookie not to be there! but obviously, Irene would take it as a personal attack (and she'd be right), so there would be trouble.

 


#408:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 9:05 am


The wise woman would be very careful before getting rid of a good cook. Don't forget that Irene likes her comfortable life, apart from Grizel.

 


#409:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 10:55 am


Unfortunately there was no reaction to Grizel having no parents there - and (thought I'd written it but can't find it) Madge had to take Joey straight home afterwards, because she didn't want to keep her out in the night air! When her end of term report came, Grizel was summoned once more to the drawing room. “I see you have made a slight improvement in English,” said Mrs Cochrane, “but your History and French still leave much to be desired. Starting from tomorrow you must study for an hour each morning of your holiday, and I hope to see an improvement soon. Now you may go and play outside until lunchtime.” Grizel was almost out of the room when she was called back. “Oh, I forgot, I have a note here from Miss Bettany asking if you would like to go to tea today. I am not sure, under the circumstances, that I should allow you to go, but, if you can contrive to occupy yourself quietly until lunchtime and keep yourself clean and tidy, I shall make an exception this once. Well, aren’t you going to thank me, child?” Her grey eyes shining, Grizel looked up at her. “Thank you very much,” she said properly and then left the room before she could say or do anything to jeopardise the afternoon’s treat. She found old Sam in the gardening, raking the last of the fallen leaves from the lawn (Autumn had come late and dry that year). Mindful of the need to keep clean and tidy she resisted the temptation to jump into the pile for the satisfaction of hearing them crunching underfoot. Instead she contented herself with walking along the path. The fishpond was now empty of water, and she stood and looked at the leaves collected in the bottom, before wandering on.

 


#410:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 11:06 am


Nasty woman - the child is ten years old, why should she be good at History and French? Thanks Liz.

 


#411:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 11:22 am


I hope nothing happens to stop her going to tea with Joey. Thank you Liz

 


#412:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 11:37 am


Poor Grizel begrudgingly given a small treat. Irene can't even try to be civil with her, let alone kind!! Twisted Evil

 


#413:  Author: EmilyLocation: Land of White Coats and Stethoscopes. PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 12:12 pm


Poor little thing- "walking along the path" it's horrible watching her being broken.

 


#414:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 12:57 pm


I have a feeling that Grizel's christmas won't be a happy one Confused

 


#415:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 1:36 pm


(((((Grizel))))) Has that woman lost her memories of childhood or something. She doesn't seem to understand what being a 10 year old girl is like at all. JackieJ

 


#416:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 3:53 pm


I have a theory that Irene was never a small child, she just came into the world as a horrible, full-grown adult.

 


#417:  Author: JoeyLocation: Cambridge PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 6:46 pm


Liz, this is so well-written! I've never understood Grizel as well as I do now. Thank you so much. I feel sorry for the whole "family", though. Irene for being forced into this situation - although she could deal with it better than she does, I suspect she lacks empathy or imagination, and she does merit pity for that. I feel least sorry for Henry, but even he deserves some (contemptuous) pity for being an ignorant male. Irene & Henry are both products of their time.

 


#418:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 7:10 pm


Well, how gracious of her to give her permission! Rolling Eyes awful woman - how dare she crush little Grizel's sprit like this

 


#419:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Thu Feb 10, 2005 9:54 pm


poor poor Grizel why shouldn't she play in the leaves?!

 


#420:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 11:22 am


“Grizel, my dear, I’m so glad you could come.” Madge Bettany welcomed the girl into their pretty home. “We were so sorry when Joey was ill and you couldn’t come last time. Come on over to the fire and get yourself warmed up.” Grizel made her way across to the room to where a fire blazed merrily. Next to it in an armchair Jo sat curled up. “Hello Grizel,” she greeted her cheerfully, “I’m so glad it’s the hols aren’t you? No more lessons for four weeks!” “I have to do some lessons,” Grizel told her, “my French and History aren’t very good, so my stepmother says I need to keep practising them during the holidays.” Madge Bettany cast a sharp look across the room. She didn’t think doing lessons in holiday time was a good idea – girls needed a break from learning, but she couldn’t very well criticise Mrs Cochrane in front of her stepdaughter. While Joey was confessing that she had done terribly in Maths, Madge wandered over and studied the bookshelves. She pulled out a book and took it over to Grizel. “Here’s something that may help you with your French,” she told her and held up a small slim volume entitled Poupette-à-l’Épingle. “Let me just write a note for your stepmother for you to take home.” Maybe if she wrote the suggestion herself it would go down better than if she just left Grizel to take the book and explain it herself. She penned a hasty note and then went to join the girls in putting together a jigsaw puzzle.

 


#421:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 11:45 am


Oh now Madge has realised everything is not right at home for Grizel maybe she'll be able to help her a bit.

 


#422:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 12:07 pm


Glad Madge is beginning to twig. But get the feeling that Irene's not going to take too kindly to the loan of the book. Confused Thanks Liz.

 


#423:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 1:01 pm


I think Irene is going to think Madge is interfering and that Grizel has been telling tales about her... Confused

 


#424:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 4:41 pm


On the other hand if Madge is spot on with what she writes, it could look as if Grizel just said she had poor marks and Madge is supporting Irene. It could even appear as if they have had to do somehting similar with Joey if she says she has used the book to teach... *ever hopeful*

 


#425:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 7:37 pm


*chops carolyn's "other hand" off* i'm going with cazx's theory

 


#426:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2005 9:20 pm


At least Madge is aware that all is not as it should be - but as she is only 20 herself it's unlikely she'll be able to do much other than support Grizel from the side. Thanks Liz.

 


#427:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 8:57 am


Yes, and just think how savagely Irene will punish Grizel if she thinks that she's been talking to Madge about her home situation. Silly me, Grizel doesn't have a home, she lives in a house with an uncaring father and a vindictive stepmother.

 


#428:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 11:10 am


Mrs Cochrane read Madge’s letter and looked, without recognition, at the book she had lent to Grizel there was an offer of further books in the series when that one was finished with. It wasn’t how she envisaged Grizel improving her French, but at least it would save her from having to listen to lists of vocabulary and verb conjugations. She decided to give Madge’s suggestion a try. In her note, Madge had also included a request for Grizel to come and spend more time with Joey. “…she gets so bored, shut up in the house unable to do much because of her health, it would be very kind of you if you could spare Grizel to visit her a couple of times a week during the holidays.” The request was phrased in a way that made it impossible to refuse politely, so to her joy, Grizel found herself visiting the Bettany house several times over the four-week holiday. On one of these occasions, after tea, Jo had to go and lie down to recover from a coughing fit, leaving Grizel with Madge. With a little questioning, Grizel was soon telling Madge about her life with Grannie and, without her intending it, her artless chatter gave away to Madge how different her life was now. “I can’t remember much of my Mummy,” she said sadly, “but Grannie says I look like her.” “You look very like her,” Madge said with a smile. “Did you know my mother?” Grizel was completely surprised. “Yes, I remember your mother, Grizel, she was very good to me when we came back to England when our parents died.” “When Joey was a baby?” “Yes. I was just a little bit older than you are now. Your father knew my father years ago and when we came back from India after our parents died your mother was so sweet to me. We haven’t time now, but I’ll tell you more about her another time if you’d like it?” “Yes please Miss Bettany, if you wouldn’t mind, that would be awfully good of you.” “We’ll do that then. Now, I’d better just go and see how Joey is, and then Mr Crumper will take you home.”

 


#429:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 11:35 am


Oh,I'm so pleased for Grizel -clever Madge. Laughing

 


#430:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 12:04 pm


Well done Madge! And glad Irene let her keep the book - albeit not for the right reasons. Cheers Liz. Smile

 


#431:  Author: EmilyLocation: Land of White Coats and Stethoscopes. PostPosted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 4:19 pm


Aww, Madge is a genius!

 


#432:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 5:13 pm


I'm so glad that Madge has managed to circumvent the Evil Irene. Grizel needs a taste of proper home-life. It's easy to see how Grizel became hardened to other people's feelings. If your own feelings are never considered, you don't learn to consider other people.

 


#433:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 8:09 pm


good for Madge - very cleverly worded. I hope this continues after the holidays but I have a nasty feeling it won't

 


#434:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 9:00 pm


I'm glad that worked out, but slightly worried that if Irene and he rfather hear that Madge has been talking about her mother then they may step in.

 


#435:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Sat Feb 12, 2005 9:51 pm


I'm glad Madge is trying to help, but I too fear that Irene is going to put a stop to it. (((((Grizel))))) Thanks Liz JackieJ

 


#436:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 1:14 am


Glad Madge has found out. Hope she manages to help Grizel a lot more but also have a feeling that Irene will interfere.

 


#437:  Author: LyanneLocation: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 8:29 am


Jennie wrote
Quote:
Grizel needs a taste of proper home-life.
Just thinking that, although the Bettanys are a loving family, they are hardly a usual one - elderly gardian, Dick's going/gone back to India, and, however caring Madge is, her primary concern is Joey and her ill-health. Until Jem comes along, there's no-one to really look after Madge. I think Irene must have had a very emotionally stunted childhood - will we see anything of her family over Christmas?

 


#438:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 10:12 am


Grizel found that Christmas was very different from how Christmas had been at Grannie’s. The house was sparsely decorated, and there was a complete lack of jollity in the atmosphere. In the kitchen Mrs Accot baked up all sorts of goodies. The Christmas cake and the pudding had both been made some time before, but there was still plenty of other baking to do. In the brief opportunities she had, Grizel inspected the latest batch of treats, a good many of which made their way upstairs on her meal trays. Grizel spent an hour each morning reading and translating the French books Madge lent to her, the fact that she recognised the stories, even had some of them in English on her shelves, helped, and Madge kindly checked over her translations each time she visited, and helped out if Grizel was stuck, or learning some of the history her stepmother required. Christmas day was far more subdued than she was used to. She had been disappointed that there was no visit from Father Christmas – when she had asked about it, Mrs Cochrane had told her that at ten she was too old for Father Christmas to visit anymore. However, she had been delighted to find a pile of presents from various friends and relatives waiting for her in the schoolroom. She opened them excitedly, and found a copy of Anne of Green Gables from Madge, and a skipping rope from Jo. Grannie had sent her a crisp 10-shilling note and a box of chocolates had come from her old neighbours. Mr Cochrane, who at intervals was struck with guilt about the lack of time spent with his daughter and tried to make up for it with material gifts had bought numerous presents including, a doll with eyes that actually opened and shut, several books, a new dress, some pretty writing paper, several books and, at his wife’s suggestion, a sewing kit. When Grizel ventured into the kitchen, Ellen and Mrs Accot both presented her with gifts, some hair ribbons from the former and a blue sash from the latter. They were delighted with the perfumed soaps she had chosen for them (Madge had taken Grizel and Jo out one afternoon when she had done some Christmas shopping, and Grizel had managed to make some purchases of her own). Despite the cold weather, Grizel made the most any chances to go outside in the garden. The sun shone most days, leaving the air crisp and clear, and she kept herself warm running around. The skipping rope was made enthusiastic use of. The fresh air and exercise, and the regular trips to see Madge and Joey helped restore some of Grizel’s natural exuberance, and the New Year found her making all sorts of well-meant resolutions about good behaviour and working hard at school. These were partly inspired by the stories Madge Bettany told her about her mother.

 


#439:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 11:21 am


Quote:
Grizel inspected the latest batch of treats, a good many of which made their way upstairs on her meal trays.
Want to give Cookie a big hug! Nice of Irene to choose her a sewing kit above everything else. Rolling Eyes And so typical of Mr Cochrane to try and make things up the material way. It's good to see her regaining some of her jollity, though have a feeling it won't last long! Thanks Liz

 


#440:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 12:24 pm


Wonder what Grizel got her father and stepmother?Such love and thought went into her presents from them - NOT!! -pure guilt and hatred actually.Glad she had a good time anyway - love Cookie and Ellen - and Madge and Joey.

 


#441:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 1:37 pm


I hope that they thoroughly disliked whatever she got them, they don't deserve to get nice presents.

 


#442:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 7:40 pm


*hugs Grizel* Glad Madge is taking an interest in her, and that she can tell her a little about her mother! Hope Irene and Mr Cochrane pay for their evilness!

 


#443:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sun Feb 13, 2005 11:16 pm


glad Grizel had some warmth and love at Christmas, even if it wasn't what most 10 year olds would have. and what rubbish about being too old for Father Christmas - at 18 I'M still young enough so a 10 year old jolly well should be!

 


#444:  Author: AliceLocation: London, England PostPosted: Mon Feb 14, 2005 8:41 am


It's nice to see Madge getting teaching practice helping Grizel. ETA - yippee, I have a star!!!

 


#445:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Mon Feb 14, 2005 9:20 am


Glad that Madge is being nice to Grizel! Very Happy

 


#446:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Feb 14, 2005 12:03 pm


Our parents died when we, Dick and I, were twelve.” Madge began. “Jo was just a little baby at the time, she doesn’t remember them at all.” “India was all we’d known. We’d lived there our whole lives, but when mother and father died our life was turned upside down. There was nobody there to care for us, so arrangements were made for us to travel back to England with another family who were coming back on the boat. When we arrived, we came here to live. This house belonged to our parents and had been rented out, but by the time we got arrived it was empty. Mr Crumper was our guardian so he and his sister came to live with us and look after us.” “England was so strange after India. Although we arrived here at the beginning of summer, it was so cold and gloomy in comparison. Everybody behaved different, and everything looked different – India was such a bright, colourful place, it seemed very dull here. And I was very lonely. Mr and Miss Crumper meant well, but they were elderly and didn’t understand us. Dick was sent to school of course – Mother and Father would have sent him back to England to school when he was fourteen anyway. I stayed at home and went to day school and looked after Joey. We had a nurse when she was very small, but I helped her a lot. Miss Crumper didn’t really know anything about babies or children.” “And then I met your mother, Grizel. Your father was an old friend of our parents, and he came to visit us and brought your mother with him.” “You know in Anne of Green Gables, when Anne talks about ‘kindred spirits’? Well, that’s what your mother was for me. As soon as I met her I fell in love with her. You were just toddling about then, Grizel and she used to bring you to visit me and gave me all sorts of good advice about looking after a baby and showed me how to do things. She befriended me, took me out places, lent me books, taught me all sorts of things from new ways of doing my hair, to how to manage housekeeping.” “Your mother had a wonderful gift, Grizel. A room became brighter when she walked into it. Not just because she was beautiful, she could have had a sack over her head and it probably wouldn’t have made a difference! It was because she had such an enjoyment of life, and she shared her happiness with everyone she met. Nobody was too insignificant for her, from chimney sweeps, to countesses, to a lonely girl struggling to adapt to life in England. It was a great tragedy when she died. Your father took it very hard of course – he loved her so very much.”

 


#447:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon Feb 14, 2005 12:42 pm


Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad It's so sad Grizel never really knew her mother, oh how different things might have been. Madge is very lovely though Very Happy *hugs Grizel*

 


#448:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Mon Feb 14, 2005 1:07 pm


Madge is lovely. Poor Grizel - it makes you realise how much she's missing.

 


#449:  Author: LyanneLocation: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Mon Feb 14, 2005 2:18 pm


Trying to swallow past the big lump in my throat - Grizel's mother was not like the adult Grizel. But clearly like she could have been... Sad

 


#450:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Feb 14, 2005 2:47 pm


Bless Madge for telling Grizell all this. But can't help feeling this is not going to make a happy comparison with her stepmother in Grizel's mind... Sad Thanks Liz.

 


#451:  Author: AliceLocation: London, England PostPosted: Mon Feb 14, 2005 6:37 pm


Thanks Liz. Love the description of Grizel's mother.

 


#452:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Mon Feb 14, 2005 6:49 pm


This is lovely, and madge is wonderful in this, what a difference she must make to the poor kid.

 


#453:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Mon Feb 14, 2005 9:22 pm


Madge is such an angel here - it's so so sad Grizel never knew her mother. Things could have been so different.

 


#454:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Mon Feb 14, 2005 10:37 pm


Grizel's mother sounds so nice, it's such a shame Grizel never really knew her.

 


#455:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Tue Feb 15, 2005 12:21 am


Grizel the child seems a lot like her mother as Madge describes her. Irene and Grizel's father have a lot to answer for.

 


#456:  Author: Miss DiLocation: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Tue Feb 15, 2005 3:21 am


Grizel's mum sounds really lovely. How on earth could her father marry that cold reptile he chose for a 2nd wife with that to compare to?

 


#457:  Author: SophoifeLocation: down under Down Under PostPosted: Tue Feb 15, 2005 5:07 am


:crying: Boohoohoo!!! :crying: Poor poor Grizel!! How lovely and typical of the Real Madge Wink to give her such a beautiful idea of her mother.

 


#458:  Author: RoseaLocation: Edinburgh PostPosted: Tue Feb 15, 2005 9:15 am


What a lovely post about Grizel's mother. I love your depiction of Madge and Joey as well, it seems so close to the early books.

 


#459:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Feb 15, 2005 12:18 pm


For a few weeks, peace had reigned in the Cochrane household. The new school term had started and Grizel worked with a will at her lessons, earning her particular commendation from her teachers. After the New Year came in with fine clear, cold weather, February came along with grey skies and rain. Grizel started to find that the short, sedate walk too and from school was not enough to expend her pent-up energy and gradually became more and more restless. After nearly two weeks, she got up on a Saturday morning to find that the sun was pushing pale fingers through the clouds. She dressed hastily, ran downstairs and into the kitchen. Here she found Cookie, who made her stop for a buttered roll and glass of milk before she scurried outside into the garden. She raced up and down the path, and then went to explore again, noting the crocuses that had pushed their way up over the last couple of weeks and the daffodils starting to make an appearance. After running off some of her surplus energy, she settled down on the mossy stump, indifferent to the dampness that gradually seeped into her clothes, and watched quietly as a pair of wrens flitted in and out of a nearby bush.

 


#460:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Tue Feb 15, 2005 12:58 pm


Ooooh dear... a certain Mrs Cochrane is NOT going to be amused, I feel! How many years until Grizel gets rescued by the Bettanys? Sad

 


#461:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Feb 15, 2005 1:12 pm


Thank you Liz. poor Grizel can foresee more trouble and she'd been trying so hard!

 


#462:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Tue Feb 15, 2005 1:25 pm


I don't want to know what happens next...

 


#463:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Tue Feb 15, 2005 5:01 pm


Poor Grizel - she has another 3 years of this too. bawling

 


#464:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans/Leicester PostPosted: Tue Feb 15, 2005 5:10 pm


Sounds like a perfect day to be outside, I hope she makes the most of it before Mrs Cochrane shows up!

 


#465:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Tue Feb 15, 2005 6:10 pm


doesn't that evil woman understand that growing children need exercise and running around and getting dirty is completely necessary?! *quickly cleans Grizel's dress*

 


#466:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Tue Feb 15, 2005 9:36 pm


Growing children need fresh air and excercise - does she want the teachers and people at church to wonder why Grizel is so pasty faced and lethargic? Which is what she will be if she keeps her indoors and quiet all the time.

 


#467:  Author: PatLocation: Doncaster PostPosted: Tue Feb 15, 2005 10:28 pm


I can remember two girls who lived near us who were not allowed to get dirty. They could go out to play though.

 


#468:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Feb 16, 2005 10:37 pm


Ellen came to find her a little while later. “Here you are Miss Grizel, the mistress is looking for you. Better come along inside.” Grizel got up “There were some birds Ellen, I think they were building a nest ‘cause they kept going backwards and forwards with twigs.” She slipped her hand into Ellen’s and skipped up the path beside her, chattering away. Before they entered the house, Ellen carefully removed a couple of twigs from Grizel’s hair and smoothed it down. Unfortunately there was nothing she could do about the damp marks on her dress, which were noticed immediately by Mrs Cochrane’s sharp eyes.

 


#469:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Wed Feb 16, 2005 10:39 pm


Glad that Ellen is trying to help Grizel. I hope Irene doesn't punish Grizel too severely Confused

 


#470:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Wed Feb 16, 2005 11:12 pm


probably make her wash the dress herself to see "how much trouble she is"

 


#471:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Wed Feb 16, 2005 11:52 pm


francesn wrote:
probably make her wash the dress herself to see "how much trouble she is"
Either that or confine her to her room in her nightclothes.

 


#472:  Author: Miss DiLocation: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Thu Feb 17, 2005 3:22 am


Susan wrote:
francesn wrote:
probably make her wash the dress herself to see "how much trouble she is"
Either that or confine her to her room in her nightclothes.
In her night gown = Staying in bed. Except for the 3 hours daily piano practice of course. And fed only bread and milk (always thought that sounded particularly gross). For the next three years. I just lurve Mrs Cochroach. She seems so...sympathetic

 


#473:  Author: LyanneLocation: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Thu Feb 17, 2005 7:16 am


Miss Di wrote
Quote:
And fed only bread and milk (always thought that sounded particularly gross).
In defense of bread and milk, it's actually quite pleasant if bland. Take 1 - 2 slices of bread, cut into fingers, place in bowl. Heat milk until just at the boil, pour over bread, add sugar to taste. My boys love it (though I'm mean and have never suggested sugar on it). Sends family GP a note, urging him to call on the Cochranes (at a time when he will find Irene wnating Grizel to sit like a wax doll).

 


#474:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Feb 17, 2005 7:16 am


Lovely Ellen, wishes Irene someday had all her evil ways reciprocated. fume

 


#475:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Thu Feb 17, 2005 10:25 am


Maybe she thinks of Grizel as a particularly rebellious type of doll? Something to show off to your friends and the rest of the time stow in a cupboard. Thanks Liz.

 


#476:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Thu Feb 17, 2005 2:38 pm


Oh dear Confused Bless Ellen for that, but that dress... Confused Thanks Liz. Wanting, but not wanting the next bit, if you know what I mean.

 


#477:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Feb 17, 2005 11:19 pm


“I believe I have told you before now that you are not to go outside in the morning before you have eaten. I will have obedience in this house.” “But I did eat,” explained Grizel, “I had…” “How dare you answer me back like that!?” Mrs Cochrane was enraged. “I was just explaining that…” “I WILL have obedience from you and I WILL NOT have you answering me back! I have also told you before not to mess your clothes up like that. It would appear that you are incapable of remembering even the simplest of my requests.” Grizel looked up at her stepmother, who suddenly appeared to tower over her. “You can go up to your room. Maybe spending the rest of the day without food will help you remember not to go outside before breakfast. As for the state of your clothes, well, you had better take that dress off immediately, and – no not down here you stupid child!” she took Grizel by the shoulders and gave her a shake. “Go upstairs and change your clothes and keep out of the way. If I hear a sound out of you there will be trouble – do you understand?” She gave one last shake and shoved Grizel away from her.

 


#478:  Author: Catherine_BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Thu Feb 17, 2005 11:37 pm


GRRRR! Evil or Very Mad to Mrs Cockroach!

 


#479:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 12:29 am


*wishing Mrs Cochrane was a slug and I had a very large boot - or even better, and salt cellar Evil or Very Mad *

 


#480:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 12:47 am


fume soapbox evil Mrs. Cochrane -- Every time I think she can't get worse, she does. *sends roach motels* (the "Roaches check in but they don't check out" brand)

 


#481:  Author: MarianneLocation: Lancaster PostPosted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 1:21 am


argh! Just caught up on this! Irene is getting worse!

 


#482:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 5:38 am


Evil cow.

 


#483:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 9:05 am


B***h!! I want Grizel to get really ill and nearly die and it all be Irene's fault but sadly we know shes gets away with her abuse.

 


#484:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 9:44 am


She is vile. Sending all sorts of pest-killers to put down for the evil Irene to eat. I'd love it if cook started to put nasty things into Evil Irene's food. ETA: It's really Grizel's father that I blame, he ought to pay more attention to his daughter's welfare.

 


#485:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 9:46 am


Please can Grizel's Dad find out and make a fuss! Though I know that is unlikely to happen.

 


#486:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 10:42 am


Mrs Accot could barely hide her outrage when Mrs Cochrane came to the kitchen with orders that no meal trays were to be taken up to the schoolroom that day. The moment her mistress had left the room she pummelled vigorously at the dough she was kneading and muttered under her breath. “Starving the poor love for a spot of dirt on her dress, it shouldn’t be allowed, that’s what!” she continued in this vein for some time, until she realised she had been kneading the bread for over half an hour. Putting it aside to rest she turned to sort the breakfast things Ellen had cleared from the dining room, resolving to watch for an opportunity to slip upstairs. “Can’t leave the poor mite without a bite to eat all day,” she said to herself. “A child that age needs her food. ’Tisn’t right to leave her hungry, mistress’s orders or no, my conscience won’t stand for it!”

 


#487:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 10:46 am


Go Cookie!No wonder Grizel adored her.

 


#488:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 1:50 pm


I do not have words to describe the evilness of Irene! I just wish we didn't know exactly how long she gets away with this treatment. No wonder Grizel acted the way she did at school.

 


#489:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 2:30 pm


I just hope that Irene won't find out about Cookie's generousity.

 


#490:  Author: Ruth BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 3:05 pm


Cazx wrote:
I just hope that Irene won't find out about Cookie's generousity.
I'm guessing if she had Cookie would have been fired, so unless another equally nice cookie comes in her place... Sends Grizel lots of Chocolate Cake and some wet wipes to clean up with so Mrs Cochrot doesn't find out

 


#491:  Author: Amanda MLocation: Wakefield PostPosted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 4:48 pm


Evil or Very Mad Nasty woman. I'd love to see her get her come-uppance, but I doubt it will happen. Poor Grizel. Star Wars

 


#492:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 7:18 pm


that bread can't be tasting very nice after cookie's pounded it.... but yay for cookie! and tongue to Irene

 


#493:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Feb 18, 2005 8:27 pm


Good for Cookie! But poor Grizel has another 3.5 years of this! Shocked

 


#494:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 10:06 am


Cazx wrote:
Please can Grizel's Dad find out and make a fuss! Though I know that is unlikely to happen.
Sorry Cazx The raised voice had penetrated through to the study where Mr Cochrane was reading some papers. When his wife came in to discuss inviting his business acquaintances the Mertons for dinner, he stopped her before she left the room. “I heard you scolding Grizel. I thought she had been much improved lately.” “She was disobedient and insolent.” Mrs Cochrane replied. “I have sent her upstairs for the day to think over her misdeeds. She must learn to do as she is told.” “Are you sure, my dear, that this is the best way to punish her?” “Henry, you brought me here to bring the child up, and I am doing so. She must learn to show respect. I cannot have her disobeying me.” “Quite so, my dear, I quite understand. My mother obviously let her run wild, I just wanted to make sure that you are able to manage and do not need me to take a hand.” “Thank you,” replied Mrs Cochrane a little stiffly, “if she were a boy, no doubt I would need your assistance. I hope some solitude will help her to learn her lesson this time.” “Very well my dear, I will leave her in your capable hands.” The rustle of papers on the desk signified the end of the conversation. Edited to correct spelling

 


#495:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 10:10 am


What a fabulous relationship they have. Isn't true love a beautiful thing? Horrible woman. Hopefully at some point Cookie and co will lock her in a room without food for a week, so she can feel what it's like! Evil or Very Mad

 


#496:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 1:32 pm


I am so thinking of ways that both of them can be punished for their actions - and it still fit into EBD's canon. fume

 


#497:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 4:21 pm


So what are they, Lesley?

 


#498:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 5:44 pm


Jennie wrote:
So what are they, Lesley?
Let me finish JOW first Jennie - then I might let the bunny full rein. Twisted Evil

 


#499:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 5:56 pm


I'll look forward to that, Lesley.

 


#500:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 9:12 pm


Evil pair! Twisted Evil

 


#501:  Author: PatLocation: Doncaster PostPosted: Sat Feb 19, 2005 10:44 pm


Jennie wrote:
I'll look forward to that, Lesley.
Me too! Twisted Evil Twisted Evil Should be really good. Laughing Laughing

 


#502:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 12:41 am


Thanks Liz. He is definitely as bad as she is. Also looking forward to Lesley's drabble.

 


#503:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 10:51 am


Well, aren't they just a charming couple. Mad

 


#504:  Author: LyanneLocation: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 11:15 am


Was Grizel's Grannie Henry's mother or his first wife's mother? Why wasn't she there at Christmas? I wish Henry would loose all his money and Irene leave for because of it. But I know it's not going to happen. It's just as well Irene & Henry have no children of their own. Can you imagine Irene with a baby?

 


#505:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 1:36 pm


Grizel's Grannie was Henry's mother. Up in the schoolroom Grizel sat quietly and read all morning. As midday approached she started to feel hungry and found it hard to concentrate on the page. She put the book down and wandered aimlessly around the room, picking up one thing after another and putting it down again. She fidgeted and fiddled her way through the next couple of hours, and then sat gloomily looking out of the window. She saw one of her schoolfellows coming along the road, and noticed how the girl skipped along, laughing and chatting with her mother. She watched, expecting to see a sharp reprimand and then the walk to be continued more sedately, but only saw the mother join in the laughter. Grizel was confused. Why was that girl allowed to skip along like that? She remembered other snatches of conversation she had heard at school and it slowly dawned on her that her life was different from the other girls’. Her confusion deepened and she turned away from the window. Why was she different from the other girls? What was wrong with her?

 


#506:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 1:37 pm


Poor little Grizel! *hugs*

 


#507:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 1:40 pm


There's nothing wrong with you Grizel! It's Irene who has the problem.

 


#508:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 2:29 pm


Poor little Grizel.

 


#509:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 5:06 pm


*hugs Grizel* Its not you hunnie its your nasty parents!!

 


#510:  Author: RosieLocation: Huntingdonshire/Bangor PostPosted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 5:32 pm


Oh, poor little mite! *sends hugs* *and toast*

 


#511:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 5:33 pm


Poor Grizel - of course she will realise that it's not her when she has more contact with Madge and Joey. When you read this you wonder how Grizel turned out as well balanced as she did - despite EBD's efforts to always make her the ogre.

 


#512:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Sun Feb 20, 2005 8:48 pm


Oh poor little love. It's horrible seeing this dawning realisation that her life is so different from other kids her age.

 


#513:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 12:42 am


Poor little Grizel what a horrible realization for her.

 


#514:  Author: Miss DiLocation: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 4:07 am


sends Irene and Henry a nasty social disease. Sends Grizel scrambled eggs on toast and a sympathetic pat on the shoulder. (I don't do the touching thing. Eww.)

 


#515:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 9:06 am


Cookie was frustrated all morning in her attempts to slip upstairs with some food for Grizel. On one occasion she was almost caught by Mrs Cochrane, and had to back hurriedly into the kitchen. Finally, when she knew Ellen was serving lunch, she decided to grab the opportunity and carrying a tray, headed for the stairs. She was halfway up when a sharp voice halted her. “Mrs Accot? What are you doing with that tray?”

 


#516:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 9:10 am


*Wibbles*I know Cookie can't be fired but what is Irene going to do...

 


#517:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 11:42 am


LizB wrote:
“Mrs Accot? What are you doing with that tray?”
Would soooo love Cookie to throw tray and contents at her right now! Sadly, I'm sure that's not what's going to happen Confused Thanks Liz

 


#518:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 1:02 pm


Longing to slaughter the evil Irene. Twisted Evil Twisted Evil Twisted Evil

 


#519:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 2:43 pm


Oh no! Poor Cookie - hope she is quick witted enough to out fox Irene, and if she can't get food to Grizel now will try again later.

 


#520:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 6:26 pm


Very interested in how Cookie is going to reply -wonder if she is in a strong enough position to say that neighbours will talk if the child faints from hunger?

 


#521:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 7:18 pm


Cookie turned slowly and made her way back down the stairs. “I was just taking this up to Miss Grizel Ma’am,” she said slowly. “I thought I gave instructions that she wasn’t to have meals.” Mrs Cochrane said in ominous tones. “Oh, it’s not a meal Ma’am, I just have a jug of water here, I thought you would want me to take it up for Miss Grizel.” “Very well then, take it up quickly, but please do not allow her to start chattering to you – remember she is in disgrace at present.” “Yes Ma’am,” replied Cookie stolidly and went back up the stairs.

 


#522:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 7:47 pm


*Wonders what is in jug?* Clever Cookie! Very Happy Thanks Liz.

 


#523:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 9:34 pm


Haha Cookie gets one over Irene!

 


#524:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 11:08 pm


Go Cookie! but poor Grizel with THAT woman...she's so harsh and evil

 


#525:  Author: Amanda MLocation: Wakefield PostPosted: Mon Feb 21, 2005 11:44 pm


Good for Cookie Smile :angry: at Irene. Poor Grizel. Star Wars

 


#526:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Tue Feb 22, 2005 12:36 am


Thank you Liz. Well done Cookie - she deserves a medal. Yah boo sucks to Irene!

 


#527:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Tue Feb 22, 2005 10:33 am


*gives Cookie a standing ovation* Serves Irene right! Cheers Liz Very Happy

 


#528:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans/Leicester PostPosted: Tue Feb 22, 2005 5:43 pm


I wonder what Cookie's hiding in that jug, or how she's going to get food to Grizel. Thanks Liz.

 


#529:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Feb 22, 2005 6:21 pm


Didn't think of hiding anything in the jug - sorry! “Here you are Miss Grizel,” Mrs Accot said cheerily as she entered the schoolroom. “I expect you’re feeling thirsty by now.” She put the tray down on the table. Grizel looked up “Hello.” “I’ve just brought you a jug of water, lovey, I thought you might be wanting something to drink, even though your stepmother has said you’re not to have any meals. At least you won’t be thirsty now.” “Thank you Cookie.” “I can’t stop now Miss Grizel, but if I can I’ll come again later. Your keep your chin up now, and the afternoon might pass quicker than you think.” She left the room, dropping something from the pocket of her apron onto a chair near the door on the way. Grizel poured herself a glass of water, which she drank thirstily, then went to see what Cookie had dropped. It turned out to be a small parcel wrapped in greaseproof paper, which when opened revealed a thick slice of pork pie. Nothing had ever tasted quite so good to Grizel as that pork pie. She devoured it hungrily, half-guiltily listening for her stepmother’s footsteps on the stairs, her heart welling up with gratitude for Cookie.

 


#530:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Feb 22, 2005 7:50 pm


awwww!!! Bless Cookie's heart!

 


#531:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Tue Feb 22, 2005 8:13 pm


Yay for cookie!!!! *hugs Grizel*

 


#532:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Tue Feb 22, 2005 8:32 pm


Good for Cookie. tongue to Irene. Oh and thanks Liz.

 


#533:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Tue Feb 22, 2005 9:01 pm


yay for Cookie!!! poor Grizel having to bolt her food like that poke

 


#534:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Wed Feb 23, 2005 12:26 am


Thanks Liz. Well done Cookie.! Glad she managed to get round Irene.

 


#535:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Wed Feb 23, 2005 12:54 pm


Hurrah for Cookie! Very Happy

 


#536:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans/Leicester PostPosted: Wed Feb 23, 2005 1:33 pm


*glowers at Mrs C* Well wherever she hid it I'm glad Cookie managed to get something to poor Grizel.

 


#537:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Feb 23, 2005 4:28 pm


Sarah_K wrote:
*glowers at Mrs C* Well wherever she hid it I'm glad Cookie managed to get something to poor Grizel.
ditto! thanks Liz. Let's hope Cookie can keep out-foxing the old bag.

 


#538:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Wed Feb 23, 2005 5:12 pm


Yay for Cookie! Thanks Liz Very Happy

 


#539:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Wed Feb 23, 2005 8:38 pm


Good for Cookie. I hope Irene's lunch chokes her.

 


#540:  Author: RosieLocation: Huntingdonshire/Bangor PostPosted: Wed Feb 23, 2005 8:49 pm


What an admirable sentiment Jennie! I couldn't agree more!

 


#541:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Feb 25, 2005 11:25 am


Unfortunately, that pork pie was all Grizel got to eat that day, as Cookie didn’t get the opportunity to go back upstairs. When she headed that way with another jug of water that evening, she was followed by Mrs Cochrane, who bade her to leave the room as soon as she had put down the jug, so the bread and cheese remained in Cookie’s pocket. “I hope you have had enough time to reflect on your behaviour earlier today and are ready to apologise.” She told Grizel. Grizel recognized the cue “I’m sorry,” she said, “I’m sorry I went outside before breakfast and I’m sorry I got my clothes messy.” Mrs Cochrane’s lips thinned. “I should think so too. I hope these measures will not be necessary again.” She said coldly. “Now you might as well go to bed and resolve to be a better child in the future.” Grizel nodded her agreement and put herself to bed, where she lay, still trying to puzzle out what was wrong with her until pangs of hunger finally gave way to tiredness and she fell asleep.

 


#542:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Feb 25, 2005 12:15 pm


Irene is a cow. Irene is a cow. Irene is a cow. Irene is a cow. Irene is a cow. Irene is a cow.

 


#543:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans/Leicester PostPosted: Fri Feb 25, 2005 5:32 pm


I think that's a pretty good summary of what's wrong Jennie Evil or Very Mad Thanks LizB

 


#544:  Author: LyanneLocation: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Fri Feb 25, 2005 7:20 pm


I hope Irene has nightmares unto her dying day about the way she is treating Grizel. I would wish her insomnia but fear she would prowl around the house thinking up more nastiness for G.

 


#545:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Fri Feb 25, 2005 8:53 pm


*echoes Jennie* I bet Irene never went to bed hungry and confused and thinking something was wrong with her Evil or Very Mad

 


#546:  Author: Helen PLocation: Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Feb 25, 2005 9:06 pm


I just caught up on about 4 pages - and can only echo everyone else. Poor, poor Grizel.... and Irene is a cow!

 


#547:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sun Feb 27, 2005 8:09 pm


Irene is not a cow - that's an insult to the bovine species. Irene is an evil, thwarted, perverted excuse for a human being, she has the sensitivity of a pile driver and less affection and love within her than Genghis Khan.

 


#548:  Author: AnnLocation: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Sun Feb 27, 2005 9:27 pm


I've just caught up with 20 pages of this. bawling Poor Grizel! hammer Evil, heartless Mr and Mrs Cochrane! Heart Cookie - that woman is a star! Thanks Liz, this is an absorbing story, one of those which you don't always want to read because you know it won't be pleasant, but you have to read all the same.

 


#549:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Sun Feb 27, 2005 11:21 pm


Thanks Liz. Wonder if that was coincidence or if Irene suspected something?

 


#550:  Author: Miss DiLocation: Newcastle, NSW PostPosted: Mon Feb 28, 2005 3:49 am


How long until Madge starts her school? Poor Grizel. Nasty Irene.

 


#551:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Mon Feb 28, 2005 10:22 pm


When can Irene die alone and unloved?

 


#552:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 11:13 pm


After that episode, Grizel listened more carefully to her schoolfriends chattering about their homes and families. She said little about her own home not wanting let them know that her life was any different to theirs. Instead she made more efforts to please her friends and was intensely grateful for any kindness shown to her her. Madge Bettany noticed that Grizel became more and more eager to please and wondered at the cause of it, thinking it unnatural behaviour for a girl of her age. However, Grizel was unwilling to confide, even to the Bettany’s, just what went on at home, as once they realised what a terrible person she was (as her frequent punishments showed her she obviously was) they might not want to be friends with her any more. Madge drew some of her own conclusions from the change in the girl’s behaviour, the little Grizel let slip and from the many things that she didn’t say. She pondered on it in private, but beyond ensuring that Jo did not unconsciously take advantage of Grizel’s complaisance and showing Grizel encouragement when the opportunity rose, there was little she could do.

 


#553:  Author: LyanneLocation: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 11:22 pm


Quote:
once they realised what a terrible person she was (as her frequent punishments showed her she obviously was)
I hope that, before she died, Irene realised the damage she, almost single-handedly, did to Grizel.

 


#554:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Tue Mar 01, 2005 11:43 pm


Good for Madge. Thanks Liz.

 


#555:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 7:30 am


Poor, poor Grizel, feeling that for so long - she has another 2-3 years of this doesn't she? Don't think it was just Madge that guessed about her home life - didn't Rosalie Dene's mother know? Thanks Liz.

 


#556:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 9:36 am


Poor little Grizel! Sad

 


#557:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 12:24 pm


Yes, there's another four years before the School starts, during which time Grizel will get to meet the Denes, and her stepmother may have some unpleasant experiences if the bunny gets his way. The desire to please was also evident in Grizel’s behaviour at home. She tired her hardest to remember the many rules her stepmother had laid down, hurried to obey and commands and did her utmost to keep quiet. Unreasonably, the more obvious it was that she was trying, the more irritated Mrs Cochrane became, and her sharp eyes were constantly alert for mistakes and mishaps. The slightest smudge of dirt would bring forth criticism a clatter on the stairs a rebuke and a bounce in her step, a reprimand. After a few weeks her suppressed spirits were ready to burst out of their confinement.

 


#558:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 12:30 pm


Poor Grizel! Evil Irene! Thank you Liz.

 


#559:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 1:10 pm


Was Irene totally unnatural as a child? Can picture her sitting placidly in a chair with a scary glazed expression over face, like something out of a horror movie!

 


#560:  Author: Helen PLocation: Cheshire PostPosted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 2:01 pm


Quote:
After a few weeks her suppressed spirits were ready to burst out of their confinement.
Oh dear, that sounds ominous.... Confused What is going to happen?

 


#561:  Author: LyanneLocation: Ipswich, England PostPosted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 2:48 pm


Cazx wrote
Quote:
Was Irene totally unnatural as a child? Can picture her sitting placidly in a chair with a scary glazed expression over face, like something out of a horror movie!
I think her parents must have used one of those devices Victorian photgraphers used to keep your head still while the photo exposed. But they forgot to take it off again. Has anyone read a story, I think it's The Real Princess by E Nesbit? I was thinking off it the other day in connection with Grizel & Irene. But I can't find it... I suspect it's hidden away or still at mum's.

 


#562:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 5:02 pm


Bless Madge for being so lovely, but poor little Grizel. Sad

 


#563:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 6:07 pm


So even when Grizel tries her hardest all that means is that Irene gets even nastier! fume Hope the buuny is biting hard about the unpleasant experiences for Irene, Liz!

 


#564:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 6:17 pm


horrid woman! why can't she appreciate her beautiful step-daughter instead of crushing her?!

 


#565:  Author: Caroline OSullivanLocation: Reading, Berkshire, UK PostPosted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 6:20 pm


Thank you Liz. Sends lots of bunny treats for your PB

 


#566:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 10:50 pm


Nasty Irene. Poor little Grizel - I know I have said this before but it needs saying again.

 


#567:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Mar 02, 2005 11:04 pm


Poor Grizel! *Shakes Irene - violently!*

 


#568:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 12:17 pm


Thanks for all the PB treats - they are being enjoyed muchly and should soon have a result! One Saturday morning, after breakfast, Grizel was out in the garden, enjoying the spring sunshine and the breeze. She ran down to the bottom of the garden, which was, as yet, unreached by old Sam’s ministrations and was a riot of overgrown plants. This part of the garden, with its tangles of bushes and creepers was her favourite refuge. She couldn’t run wild in it quite as she’d like, because she had to be careful of her clothes, but it was fascinating to poke around in the dark corners, or to watch the birds flitting in and out of the trees. She spent some time skipping along the moss-covered path, but after a while she tired of that and looked around for something else to do. An inspiration struck her and, after a few attempts, she managed to toss one end of her skipping rope over a tree branch. Jumping up, she pulled down the end until both were level, then twisted the rope round and round itself. Clinging tight to the ends, she lifted her feet high off the ground and spun round and round as the rope untwisted. With a delighted giggle she repeated the game over and over again, paying no heed to the ominous cracking sounds until the branch had had enough and broke, depositing her, mid-twirl on the ground and landing next to her – narrowly missing her head. Winded and dizzy, Grizel half-lay, half-sat there for a minute before struggling to her feet. She looked down at herself dress, horrified. The skirt of her dress was streaked with grass stains and mud, and her coat sleeve was half ripped off at the shoulder. Guilt and apprehension flooded over her. What had she done?

 


#569:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 1:02 pm


Oh no poor Grizel - whats going to happen to her now?? Thanks Liz!

 


#570:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 1:02 pm


*Feels like violently attacking Irene* What has she done to poor Grizel. She's feeling dizzy and winded and her first thought's are of guilt. That is not right. poke hammer Irene Thanks Liz JackieJ

 


#571:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 1:15 pm


*picks Grizel up and cuddles her* I wonder what Grizel will do to avoid being found like that?

 


#572:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 1:21 pm


Poor Grizel, what horrors is Irene going to inflict upon her now... Confused

 


#573:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 3:04 pm


Oh, no! I hope Cookie can smuggle her in and conceal the damage.

 


#574:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 3:52 pm


Kathy_S wrote:
Oh, no! I hope Cookie can smuggle her in and conceal the damage.
Ditto!

 


#575:  Author: Caroline OSullivanLocation: Reading, Berkshire, UK PostPosted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 4:35 pm


Eeek! Oh poor Grizel. Hope the Evil or Very Mad Mrs C is out somewhere but i have a horrible feeling she won't be. Am so thankful Cookie is there so look after and care for Grizel. Thank you Liz Very Happy

 


#576:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 6:00 pm


What has she done? What has she done? something perfectly natural for a child!!!!!! *swiftly blinds Irene so she won't see, magicks Grizel clean and mends the coat*

 


#577:  Author: MarianneLocation: Lancaster PostPosted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 7:47 pm


awwwwww poor Grizel!

 


#578:  Author: claireLocation: South Wales PostPosted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 8:37 pm


Grizel is lovely, it's such a shame what happens to her

 


#579:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 9:23 pm


bawling bawling bawling bawling bawling In anticipation. Crying or Very sad

 


#580:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 10:05 pm


Poor kiddy!!!!

 


#581:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 11:35 pm


Poor Grizel Ok she has torn and muddied her clothes but that is not a major disaster. A quick cuddle to repair her hurts and if she needs punished a lesson in mending her own clothes but unless Cookie intervenes I am sure Irene will treat her much mor harshly than thtat.

 


#582:  Author: Helen PLocation: Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Mar 04, 2005 11:44 pm


Oh no - poor Grizel Crying or Very sad Liz, this drabble has inspired me to change my avatar Smile

 


#583:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 10:31 am


Helen P wrote:
Liz, this drabble has inspired me to change my avatar

Thanks Helen - that's a lovely compliment Embarassed And thanks to everyone else for your encouragement. Very Happy

Grizel crept up the garden to the house, trying to keep out of sight. If she could only get upstairs without being seen she could get changed, although she didn’t know what she would do with her clothes. She had nearly reached the kitchen door when it started to open. In a panic, she darted behind a nearby bush, her heart thumping. To her relief, it was Ellen coming to hang some cloths out to dry. Daring to poke her head out, Grizel whispered loudly, “Ellen.”

Ellen looked around and spotted her. “Miss Grizel!” she exclaimed. “What are you… How did you… Just look at you! Are you hurt? Oh - what will your stepmother say!” Ellen, looked furtively back at the house.

“I’m alright,” Grizel told her, “but my clothes are all spoiled. Ellen, what am I going to do?”

“Quick, you go and wait in the outhouse and I’ll go and talk to Mrs Accot, we’ll see if we can’t think of something.” Grizel scurried off to the safety of the outhouse, where she waited as patiently as she could for help to arrive. Her patience was soon rewarded. Cookie came hurrying out, a bundle tucked under one arm, to find her there.

“Oh, Miss Grizel, lovey, what have you been doing dearie?” she listened to Grizel’s explanation and carried on fussing around her, helping Grizel out of her damaged clothes into some fresh ones Ellen had purloined from her wardrobe. She bundled up the discarded clothing. “Now, you run upstairs and keep quiet in the schoolroom, I’ll see what we can do with these, and hopefully the missus will never know about this.”

Grizel did as she was bidden and successfully gained the safety of the schoolroom. Meanwhile, Cookie concealed the bundle of clothes in the pantry until she had an opportunity to deal with them.

Kathy_S wrote:
Oh, no! I hope Cookie can smuggle her in and conceal the damage.

Now scared of Kathy's transatlantic mind-reading skills! Shocked


Last edited by LizB on Wed Mar 09, 2005 2:43 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#584:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 10:56 am


Go Cookie! Her and Ellen are wonderful.

 


#585:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 11:22 am


Oh I love Cookie! Very Happy

 


#586:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 2:55 pm


Thank goodness for Cookie and Ellen!!!

 


#587:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 3:33 pm


Well done Ellen and Cookie! Just what we expected of them. Still hoping nasty Irene doesn't find out.

 


#588:  Author: francesnLocation: away with the faeries PostPosted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 6:04 pm


Cookie is such a good sport! *but still wibbling that Irene might notice something is amiss*

 


#589:  Author: MarianneLocation: Lancaster PostPosted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 7:34 pm


yay for cookie:)

 


#590:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 8:58 pm


So glad for Grizel that she has those two. :ahhh: Grizel.

 


#591:  Author: Helen PLocation: Cheshire PostPosted: Sat Mar 05, 2005 9:47 pm


What a relief - I'm glad Kathy S was right! She has got away with it - until the next time Confused

 


#592:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Sun Mar 06, 2005 1:08 am


More cheers for Cookie & Ellen! (& Liz, of course)

 


#593:  Author: LizBLocation: Oxon, England PostPosted: Sun Mar 06, 2005 1:35 pm


By some miracle, Mrs Cochrane never found out about the incident. Cookie sat up late that night, carefully mending the ripped seam in Grizel’s coat so that by the time it was needed again there was no sign that it had ever been torn. The rest of the clothes she put to soak and then secreted them into the wash on Monday morning. Soon, the only remaining evidence was the broken branch, and as nobody but Grizel ever ventured that far down the garden it was unable to tell a tale. Admittedly, Grizel was rather stiff and sore for a few days, but as this merely resulted in her moving more carefully it helped her to avoid other potential scoldings.

 


#594:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Sun Mar 06, 2005 2:48 pm


Cookie is so lovely! Glad Irene did not find out!

 


#595:  Author: JosieLocation: London PostPosted: Wed Mar 09, 2005 6:47 am


Echoes Cazx's comments!

Thanks Liz Very Happy

 


#596:  Author: TahneeLocation: New Zealand PostPosted: Wed Mar 09, 2005 8:32 am


How sweet are Cookie and Ellen! But poor wee Grizel...and there is another 4 years or so of this for her. Hiss to evil Steppie and the horrible uncaring father!!

 




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