She's definitely preoccupied - I wonder if she'll really go through with it
Thanks, Lesley
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| A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! http://www.the-cbb.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=14&t=5453 |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sun Dec 21, 2008 10:24 pm ] |
| Post subject: | A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
At the prison later that week Butcher had a visitor, “Hi Wilson, how you doing?” “Not bad,” Nell smiled, “and, before you ask no Hilda’s not here today. She’s not really up to the journey just yet - she’s just started jogging and it’s tiring her more that she expected. She asked me to pass on that she’ll be writing to you at the weekend and she will definitely be here for your next visit.” “Oh right,” Butcher nodded slightly, “thanks. Could you tell her that I’m really sorry I missed her? And I hope her recovery continues.” “Of course,” Nell smiled, “so, anything been happening in here then?” Butcher smiled rather ironically, “In here? Nothing ever happens in here.” Nell frowned, “No? I thought you’d had another meeting of that committee on Prison Reform - you told me last time I was in that one was scheduled.” “Oh yes, yesterday,” Butcher replied, “yeah, it went well, I think,” she frowned slightly. … Surprisingly the same question came up in Geri Shaw’s office; Pat Francis had just returned from some days off and was getting a handover from her friend, she leant back in her chair, “So you’ve mentioned the prison in general, what about Butcher? Is she speaking to you yet?” Shaw smiled, “Well she was civil yesterday when we both attended the meeting on Prison Reform,” she began, “though I think she’s still annoyed with me.” “How did the meeting go?” “Oh very well, a number of items were discussed and some very good suggestions made. There are a couple of ex-prisoners on the committee, they were making some very good suggestions on ways to help first-time inmates to settle in and immediately get to grips with the regime. Things like making sure they didn’t lose touch with family, that they took all the opportunities going for further education, courses etcetra. One of them had spent eighteen years inside due to drug dealing and told how being able to study was the only thing that kept him sane. The other man had served nine years for murder and had missed seeing his children growing up.” “What about Butcher, did she take part?” “She did, in fact she made one extremely good suggestion - though I’m not sure if, initially, she intended it to be taken seriously.” “Oh?” “Yes, it was after one of the social workers started to agree with the two ex-convicts and finished up by saying, and I quote, ‘I know how it feels to be deprived of your freedom’ end quote.” “Ouch,” Pat winced in anticipation, “doubt that went down well.” “It didn’t, I could see the two ex-prisoners, Paul Rhodes and Butcher all starting to tense up at the phrase…” “Bet you did too,” Pat observed. Geri nodded, “Yes, I could feel myself start to boil, but before I could say anything Butcher stood up… “With all due respect, Mr Evans, you know nothing about how it feels to be deprived of your freedom. That is unless you’ve actually been a prisoner yourself. Have you?” Evans looked round quickly, “Well, no, of course not - I didn’t mean it like that, Butcher. More that I could sympathise with how…” “We don’t need your sympathy, Mr Evans,” Butcher interrupted, “any more than we need your pity,” she looked round at the people sitting at the table, noting as she did that the two Prison Officers standing beside the door were both tensed up, ready to react, she forced herself to relax and continued, “none of you here can say that you know how it feels unless you’ve been through it. Now I have, obviously, so have Hicks and Johnson, what about the rest of you?” There was silence for a few seconds as Butcher’s gaze rested on each of them, she continued, “Shaw, I know you have, anyone else? No? Then Shaw’s the only person that can say that they know how it feels to be deprived of their freedom. From anyone else it‘ll just sound like more condescension, more attempts to ‘be one‘ with the convict.” “I sorry Butcher, that wasn’t my intention.” “No, but sometimes you all seem to forget that you’re dealing with human beings here. It would do all of you good to actually experience it, being locked up, having someone else completely in control of your destiny. Being afraid.” “And the con that tells you they are not afraid,” Johnson put in, “is lying. Oh they’ll mask it, they’ll put on an act - we’ve all done it. The swagger, the insolence, the jokes with the other cons - but inside we were all afraid.” Butcher nodded, grateful of the support, “So if you go see a new inmate, some kid that’s just been sent down for the first time and is looking at a long stretch - and even six months is a long stretch when it’s the first time - and you say that you ‘know how he feels’ you’d better be able to back up that statement. Otherwise he’ll just dismiss anything else you try to tell him as more bull.” On her right Geri Shaw stood up, “I would concur with Butcher,” she said quietly, “I have been in the Prison Service for twenty-three years yet I had no idea just how it felt until I was held hostage in a siege nearly two years ago. Butcher’s idea about actually experiencing being locked up is an extremely good one.” … Later that day saw Butcher over in the gym; she was joined by McCall, “Visit go okay?” “What? Yeah, went fine. Wilson’s a good mate. Couldn’t see Annersley though, she’s still not hundred percent. Said she be in to see me next time.” “Ah,” McCall nodded, “and from what you’ve said about them you couldn’t tell them you had other plans, could you?” Butcher shook her head, “No, I think they’d feel it their duty to stop me - wouldn’t look on it as grassing - more reporting, you know?” “Well if you feel that bad about it, why don’t you leave a note with Rees? Ask her to pass it on after you’ve gone?” Butcher thought for a time, “Yeah, maybe I’ll do that and maybe I’ll…” “Leave one for Shaw as well?” McCall smiled, “why not? So long as they don’t get them until after we’ve left the country.” |
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| Author: | Carolyn P [ Sun Dec 21, 2008 10:39 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 21/12 (2 of 2) page 1 |
Those will be interesting letters to write! For Lesley and for Butcher. |
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| Author: | Pat [ Sun Dec 21, 2008 11:34 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 21/12 (2 of 2) page 1 |
Wonder what's going on in Butcher's mind. She's not as sharp as usual is she? |
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| Author: | abbeybufo [ Sun Dec 21, 2008 11:36 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 21/12 (2 of 2) page 1 |
She's definitely preoccupied - I wonder if she'll really go through with it Thanks, Lesley
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| Author: | Lesley [ Tue Dec 23, 2008 2:07 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 21/12 (2 of 2) page 1 |
Friday morning saw a visitor to the Real Chalet School – but one who was expected; Hilda Annersley was waiting at the Main entrance to the School when Madge Russell’s car drew up and parked. She smiled, “Hello Madge, lovely day today, isn’t it?” Madge smiled, “It is pleasant, I must admit,” she said as the two women walked into the School, “though rather warmer than expected for mid-April, isn’t it?” ”Oh Melbourne can have warm periods even when, technically, we’re in Autumn. At least the water is still warm enough to bathe in.” The two arrived outside the Headmistress’ Study and Madge used her Master Pass to open the door, she then paused and turned to Hilda, “This is now yours again, Hilda,” she said as she handed the Pass over. “Thank you Madge,” Hilda replied, “now, you have some items to handover?” The pair sat at the desk and Madge swiftly went through items with Hilda. The Handover did not take long, Madge herself remarking ruefully that there was very little that she needed to tell Hilda about how to perform the role of Headmistress. Hilda smiled at the compliment, however Madge’s next comment was rather less complimentary, “Of course, having taken over the role for those two weeks, Hilda, I was able to see where areas of concern have arisen.” “Concern, Madge?” Madge nodded, “Yes, probably a fresh pair of eyes was needed, to see where standard had slipped slightly. As an example there’s morning Assembly.” “What is wrong with the Assembly?” Hilda frowned slightly. “Well it’s obvious, isn’t it?” Madge gave a quick laugh, “you no longer have Prayers in the morning during Assembly and you have no evening Prayers. You have both the Main Hall and the Gym so it should be easy enough to divide. I must admit to being very surprised at both you and Nell. I thought you had retained your Faith following our transfer across to this world. Then there’s the matter of Grace at mealtimes – I mean I can see why you would have both Anglican and Catholic blessings but I cannot understand the rest…” “Forgive me, Madge, but surely you were not expecting the Real Chalet School to have retained the methods of worship from the Original School?” ”Of course.” “But that is simply not practical, Madge,” Hilda said firmly, “we accept students from all races and creeds now, not solely from those following Christianity. This is not a Faith-School and we try to be as ecumenical as possible. We have evolved from the Original School, Madge, “ Hilda added gently, “such that the ideals that you had when you first founded that school have now been adapted to fit a far wider, more secular and multi-faith society.” “I see,” Madge was silent for a time then continued, “well if that’s your decision – I remember your request when you first became Headmistress here, Hilda. You wanted autonomy. Now I can see why that is.” Hilda took a deep breath, “Madge things have to change. We cannot keep any establishment static – it has to adapt to the changing environment or it will simply be by-passed. You haven’t expected any other business within RCS Industries to operate as though it was still nineteen-forty have you?” ”Of course not, there was a war on then.” ”Nineteen-fifty then?” “Well no but,” Madge bit her lip, “I just hate seeing so many changes to the School that I first founded when I was a young women. Please Hilda reconsider, look at some of the classes you have allowed – sex education, engineering even those kickboxing lessons.” Hilda shook her head, “I’m sorry Madge, I’m not prepared to stop any class if your sole reason for objecting to it is that it would not have been a part of the curriculum for the Original School.” Madge shook her head, “I really cannot understand your reasoning, Hilda, it’s as though you are doing this deliberately to defy me – however I am mindful that I gave my word that I would allow you autonomy, therefore I will say no more.” ”Thank you.” Madge rose to leave then turned back, “Oh and with regard to the five members of staff that you hired? The moratorium on recruitment has been lifted so I expect you want to transfer them across to RCS Industries now?” Hilda thought for a moment then shook her head, “No, that’s not necessary – they might lose two months pension and sickness entitlements and we can continue to support them on our own payroll.” Madge’s eyes narrowed slightly but she merely nodded, “I’ll leave you to get on then, Hilda,” she said, “you’ll want to make a start at preparing for next term I expect?” “Yes, I do,” Hilda smiled, “thank you Madge.” |
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| Author: | keren [ Tue Dec 23, 2008 3:18 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 23/12 page 1 |
Interesting, but what happened? Why and how has she backed down? I mean... that's all? |
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| Author: | Jennie [ Tue Dec 23, 2008 3:45 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 23/12 page 1 |
You'll have to forgive me if disbelieve that Madge has accepted the changes in the running of the school. |
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| Author: | Carolyn P [ Tue Dec 23, 2008 4:04 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 23/12 page 1 |
I expect to hear more about this. How much of Hilda's autonomy is enshrined in written contract and how much was an agreement between friends? |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sun Dec 28, 2008 11:48 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 23/12 page 1 |
That afternoon at the State Prison saw Geri Shaw walk across to North Wing after the work detail was over. She found Butcher in her cell writing a letter, “Hello Butcher, I should like to speak with you please.” Butcher looked up sharply, “I’m busy.” Geri took a deep breath then spoke again, “Nevertheless I should like to speak with you. Please walk with me.” Butcher glared across, “And what I’m doing means nothing, right? Well in that case yes Ma’am, Governor Ma’am, anything else I can do for you Ma’am?” Geri sighed, “Butcher I’ve no idea why you’re so angry with me,” she began, “if it’s because of my orders on Sunday I’d just remind you that the only reason I ordered that you be searched was because you had been found having broken a strict rule of the prison. One that you, as a long-serving inmate, would have no excuse for. Now I appreciate that you are upset because we are friends - but I am also Governor of this prison and as such cannot be seen to have any favourites. Ordering a strip search on an inmate caught out of bounds is the standard response, Butcher - and one that you know very well, I had no choice,” she paused for a few seconds then added, “would you really rather that I treated you differently?” Butcher continued glaring, “Yes,” she paused then, “no…oh forget it.” Shaw said nothing, just waited and, after a few more seconds Butcher swept her papers into a drawer and rose, looking down at the floor she spoke again, “I suppose you had no choice,” she said reluctantly. “Thank you,” Shaw replied, “now, please walk with me, I have some news.” “Yeah? What news?” Shaw did not reply until after the two women had left the Wing and were walking down a corridor, she then took a deep breath and answered, “The suggestion you made the other day, during the Prison Reform Committee meeting - Mr Rhodes wants there to be a pilot and has chosen this establishment. I told him I would have to speak with you.” Butcher frowned, “Suggestion I made?” “Yes, about people actually experiencing being deprived of their freedom? As I said, the head of the Prison Board has authorised a pilot scheme and actually has a volunteer.” “A volunteer? Who?” Butcher asked suspiciously. Geri paused for a moment before replying, “Joyce Shipley.” Butcher stopped dead, “Well you’d better lock her up in Solitary or the Seg Wing then, hadn’t you,” she said, her voice all the more dangerous for being quiet. Shaw shook her head, “If she’s protected from the women then she’ll never experience the fear all inmates have to experience, will she?” “You place her on the Wing and it’s likely she won’t live to see the end of her sentence,” Butcher retorted, “as soon as the women discover who she is she’ll be a target.” “You could control the women’s reactions, couldn’t you?” “Maybe, but why should I? That woman was responsible for a great deal of hardship, injury and death throughout Victoria.” “But it was mainly through ignorance, Butcher,” Shaw replied insistently, “ignorance of just what it was like being locked up. Now she’s willing to learn, to try and make amends - and you could teach her. I can’t say she’s my favourite person either but I can respect her courage in volunteering to come in here. To risk herself like that.” Butcher thought deeply for a time then slowly nodded, “Yeah, I suppose I can respect that,” she said eventually. “So, if this goes ahead, you’d make sure she was protected?” “I’ll think about it,” Butcher replied. Shaw smiled, “Good, it’ll be a few weeks before it’s set in motion, I’ll let you know the details closer to the time.” “A few weeks?” Butcher’s expression suddenly closed down. Shaw looked puzzled, “Yes, it’ll take that long for everything to be arranged. It’s not a problem is it?” Butcher shook her head while wondering to herself whether Rees would be strong enough. She did not speak again and Shaw wondered what had broken the easy rapport they had managed to achieve. |
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| Author: | abbeybufo [ Sun Dec 28, 2008 12:00 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 23/12 page 1 |
Butcher is beginning to see the ramifications of her departure - should she go through with it . . . this gets better & better Lesley, thanks
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sun Dec 28, 2008 8:10 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 28/12 page 1 |
The next morning saw all of Butcher’s firm gather together out in the courtyard, after a great deal of discussion and talk Butcher looked round, “Okay, this is the final check that everything’s ‘go’ for tomorrow - any problems bring them up now, however small or insignificant they seem,” she looked across at McCall who responded, “I’ve had contact with the people outside, transport is arranged and will be waiting for us. They will stick around for only a short time so as not to alert the screws. Tickets are sorted and clothing and luggage waiting.” Butcher nodded, “I have the spare key and will aim to be out here in the courtyard by ten-thirty, we will go as soon as the diversion is in place.” Rees looked up, “I’ve got it arranged, we’ll be having a football match - arranged by the screws - at the signal they’ll engineer a foul so the spectators can make a noise and get the screws’ attention. Should manage to get away with it without anyone being dragged off to Solitary.” “Good,” Butcher said approvingly, “now we’ve got most of the kit we need already stored in the sewer including overalls, rucksacks, lock picks, cutting equipment and torches. Anything else?” “You said you wanted some tape, in case of leaks?” this from Chapman, “I’ve got a couple of rolls of duct tape stashed in my cell, I’ll pass them across later today.” “Good,” Butcher smiled, “so if that’s it the rest of you’d better scatter - and stay out of trouble today,” she waited while the others all dispersed before turning to the two women left, “well?” Rees spoke first, “We’ll need to go through things, Butcher, make sure I know everything,” she looked worried. Butcher smiled, “Sure, but don’t worry, Rees, you’ll be fine. I was about your age when I was first Boss.” “Yeah?” Rees gave a slight smile, “and would you say you’re the same person now?” “Of course not, everyone changes, that’s what experience does for you - but you’re as capable as I was then. You’ll be fine.” Rees gave a quick nod then left, obviously not convinced, McCall smiled, “She’ll make mistakes, you know?” Butcher nodded, “I know, we all do.” “But she’ll get there in the end - by the time she’s the age you are now she’ll probably have got to being a fairly decent Boss.” “I hope so,” Butcher replied, troubled. She took a deep breath, “Can you think of any other equipment we might need then?” McCall nodded, “Just one thing, I got Linville to get them for us.” “Get what?” For answer McCall removed a small object from her pocket, taking care to shield the object from any other eyes, “One of these each,” she said, “after all we don’t want anything stopping us once we’ve made a start, do we?” Butcher looked at the object, with a four inch blade nestled into a bone handle, it was a flick knife, she took the blade from her friend and placed it in her pocket, “No we don’t,” she said firmly, “good thought.” … The telephone had just switched across to answer phone when Geri Shaw reached it, “Hello, this is Geri,” she began. “Geri, where the Hell have you been?” The voice of Paul Rhodes was immediately recognisable. Geri frowned, “I’ve been out with Ruth, a friend of mine,” she began, “we went to the theatre and then on for a meal, why? Has something happened at the Prison, Paul?” “I’ve been trying to get in touch with you for the last hour,” Rhodes replied grumpily. “Well my mobile was switched off, of course,” Geri replied, “now what’s wrong?” “Nothing wrong at the prison, Geri,” Rhodes began, “but my meeting with the New South Wales Prison Head has been moved up from Tuesday morning to Monday - I’ll be flying there tomorrow night and will need those statistics of yours before I go.” “Dammit Paul that’s going to mean me going into the office tomorrow to get the latest figures.” “Yes I know, sorry,” Paul replied, “you’re not the only one, Chris at Barwon’s having to do the same - but it may mean we can transfer a few inmates over and relieve the overcrowding in Victoria. We just need the figures - especially those who have family in or close to the border with New South Wales.” Geri sighed, “You owe me, Rhodes,” she said eventually, “this was my first weekend off in a month. I‘ll go in tomorrow morning and get the figures to you by lunchtime.” “Thanks Geri.” |
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| Author: | keren [ Sun Dec 28, 2008 9:22 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 28/12 x 2!!! Page 1 |
oh oh, this means she will be there, and they counted on it that she would not! |
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| Author: | MaryR [ Sun Dec 28, 2008 10:03 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 28/12 x 2!!! Page 1 |
And so the tension cranks up and we wonder *will she....won't she...?* But if she doesn't go ahead, how will she get out of it? And if she does go ahead..... Thanks, Lesley. |
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| Author: | Liane [ Sun Dec 28, 2008 10:09 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 28/12 x 2!!! Page 1 |
Oh oh! That's put a spanner in the works. Interested to see how this turns out. Thanks Lesley |
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| Author: | Pat [ Sun Dec 28, 2008 10:27 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 28/12 x 2!!! Page 1 |
Anyone want to bet agianst the next episode being anywhere but the prison and Butcher? 
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| Author: | MHE [ Sun Dec 28, 2008 10:47 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 28/12 x 2!!! Page 1 |
Nope - I'm keeping my money safely under the bed!!! Mind it will make interesting reading when we will finally get to read it - one safe bet (probably) is that it won't be this year 
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| Author: | blue1 [ Mon Dec 29, 2008 4:33 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 28/12 x 2!!! Page 1 |
Thanks Lesley. Just spent the last five days reading all of RCS. Im crazy i know but what are holidays for  Just wanted to say its brilliant and i can't wait to see what happens next with Butcher.
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| Author: | Lesley [ Mon Dec 29, 2008 6:11 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 28/12 x 2!!! Page 1 |
Very impressed blue1  Hope you enjoy this bit!Sunday morning started well as far as the inmates at the State Prison were concerned; it was a bright sunny day and the PT Officers were quick to open the Gates leading to the inner courtyard so the inmates could be outside. Butcher had gathered together all of her firm, “Alright, this is it,” she began, her dark eyes serious, “the match is set to start in a couple of minutes and, once it has, McCall, Rees and I will be on our way.” “Rees?” The quick question came from Grant. Rees herself answered, “Yeah, I’m going along to tidy up after them, shut the Gates and that.” “Oh, that’s alright then,” Grant said quickly, “don’t want to lose you too,” the rest of the women nodded in agreement. “Well Rees is staying,” Butcher said impatiently, “now, at ten-thirty precisely I want a lot of noise from here, understood?” Chapman nodded, “No worries, Butcher, we’ve got most of North Wing and some of the others involved, Linville has got most of East Wing involved too.” Linville added, “We’ll make so much noise we’ll have all the screws looking across wondering what’s going on.” “Good, just don’t get them all suspicious, calm down straight away so they think it’s just something in the game.” “Chapman and me are going to be playing Butcher,” Grant put in, “we’ll engineer a foul so it looks legit.” Butcher smiled slightly, “Sneaky, I like it,” she paused for a few seconds then added, “thanks, all of you, for your help and support. I appreciate it.” “We’ll miss you, Butcher,” Rees replied quietly, “it won’t seem the same without you.” There was silence for a time broken by the PT Officers calling for all those women wanting a game to come forward, Butcher smiled slightly, “We’d better get going,” she said, “take care, all of you.” While the rest of Butcher’s firm moved into position for their diversionary tactics, Butcher, McCall and Rees swiftly moved to the rear of the courtyard. It was the work of seconds to open the gate and then enter an areas known to be ‘out of bounds’. The three women moved cautiously, aware that they had to stay close to the buildings to ensure they not be seen. Although further than when accessed from the gym they eventually arrived at the same tree, Butcher looked at her watch, “We’ve got a few minutes before the diversion,” she said, “so time for this,” she reached into her pocket and pulled out a handful of notes, “Rees, these are for you, just to give you a little helping hand. I don’t think you’ll have any problems just remember to always be consistent and stay fair.” “I’ll just copy what you did, Butcher,” Rees said, placing the money in her pocket. “You’ll be fine,” Butcher said gently. “Still wish you weren’t going though,” Rees replied. There was a sudden escalation of noise from the courtyard and all three realised the diversion was in progress. As rehearsed all three swiftly ran toward the manhole cover, Butcher and Rees unlocking it and lifting the cover for McCall to slip down. Butcher smiled across at Rees, “You’ll be fine, kid,” she said, “just remember what I’ve taught you.” Rees nodded, “Good luck Butcher,” she said. Then, after Butcher had disappeared down the sewer Rees swiftly replaced and locked the cover before carefully returning to the courtyard. Inside the sewer McCall waited until the manhole had been replaced before switching on her torch, the light meant Butcher was able to find her boiler suit and put it on quickly. The two women filled and shrugged on the rucksacks made for them by inmates in the laundry room before walking along to the first gate. The lock pick was used to open the gate without difficulty and the two moved on, both feeling that the escape was going to be simple. This feeling only lasted until the third gate - the gates were placed every twenty yards or so and the first two were easily opened, however the third resisted all attempts to pick it. The pair looked at each other then, silently, took out the small oxy-acetylene cylinder. Butcher put together the equipment then placed a visor over her face, “You’d better get back, McCall,” she said quickly, “I don’t think there’s much methane down here at the moment, we had that heavy rain only a couple of days ago, but just in case.” McCall nodded and moved back. She watched as Butcher switched the cylinder on then tensed up, waiting, while she flicked on a lighter. There was a soft ‘Whoooossshh’ and the cylinder was emitting a blue-white flame. Butcher grinned back at her friend before concentrating on the lock. It took about thirty minutes to cut through the lock and the same amount of time to cut through a second further on. Otherwise though the trip through the sewer was simple and the two women found themselves standing at the base of a ladder leading up to the car park. They both discarded the cylinder and other equipment, though retaining their rucksacks. Butcher looked at her watch, “Just after twelve,” she said, “ we’ve made pretty good time. Your mates will be there when?” “Twelve-thirty, give or take five minutes,” McCall replied, “we won’t be missed at lunch though, will we?” Butcher shook her head, “Not at the weekend, screws don’t do mandatory counts until shift change at two. Come on then,” the two climbed the ladder and paused, “okay, moment of truth,” Butcher said quietly, she placed the key into the cover and twisted it, on hearing a slight click she nodded to McCall who was standing beside her on the ladder, “ready?” “Ready,” McCall affirmed, pushing her head up slightly just as Butcher lifted the cover. “Well, what do you see?” Butcher’s voice showed none of the strain she was exerting in lifting the cover. McCall quickly looked round, “Couple of cars, black jeep, some trees, otherwise nothing, no screws, no people.” “Right then, let’s do this,” so saying Butcher pushed harder and moved the cover off to one side. The two looked round once more, “All clear,” McCall said quickly, Butcher nodded and they both climbed the ladder. As the two women hauled themselves up out of the drain a noise from behind caused them both to turn; some thirty yards away, just getting out of her black jeep, stood the Governor, Geri Shaw. At the same time Shaw obviously saw them and immediately reached into her jacket to retrieve an object; it was a mobile phone. Even as McCall stared, Butcher was moving; she reached Shaw within seconds and used the momentum of her run to leap up and kick the phone from the other woman’s hand. Shaw was pushed back against the jeep and, before she had a chance to move or call out, Butcher had grabbed her. Twisting one arm up behind the Governor’s back with one hand and placing the other across Shaw’s mouth, preventing her from raising the alarm. Butcher moved, with her prisoner, to lean against the jeep, using its bulk to shield her from the watchtower. Some seconds later McCall joined her, “Jesus, Butcher, you’re fast,” she said, “you’d moved before I’d even thought about it.” Butcher nodded in acknowledgement, her greater strength easily preventing the Governor from moving, “Case of having to, McCall,” she replied, “unless we wanted Shaw to blow the whistle.” McCall grinned agreement then searched in her rucksack for some items, between them Butcher and McCall quickly secured Shaw’s hands behind her back and gagged her, Shaw struggling the entire time but obviously no match for the two convicts. Once their prisoner was secure McCall looked over at Butcher, “So, what do we do with her then?” she asked, “Kill her? Or take her with us?” At the words Shaw stiffened, until then she had just been angry, livid - now she was suddenly aware of her own peril. |
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| Author: | Lottie [ Mon Dec 29, 2008 6:20 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 29/12. Page 1 |
I know you're the master (or mistress?) of cliffs, Lesley! But please don't leave us there!
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| Author: | blue1 [ Mon Dec 29, 2008 6:40 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 29/12. Page 1 |
 please please please come back and post more. Am seriously worried about Shaw now, i don't think Lesley will quite manage to kill her but then again who knows. |
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| Author: | Liane [ Mon Dec 29, 2008 7:54 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 29/12. Page 1 |
| poor Geri! I thought she might make an appearane before this and stop the escape. I never thought of her turning up in the middle of it. Thanks Lesley (I think)
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| Author: | Carolyn P [ Mon Dec 29, 2008 9:23 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 29/12. Page 1 |
Well I somehow don't think Butcher and Shaw are going to have an easy going friendship after this! |
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| Author: | keren [ Mon Dec 29, 2008 9:49 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 29/12. Page 1 |
Unbelievable |
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| Author: | BethC [ Mon Dec 29, 2008 10:09 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 29/12. Page 1 |
Eek! See, this'll be where Lesley announces she's going on holiday for a fortnight and hasn't written any more yet...  *crosses fingers firmly that that won't be the case* |
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| Author: | abbeybufo [ Mon Dec 29, 2008 10:12 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 29/12. Page 1 |
| Well, like Liane I expected Geri to turn up, but to prevent the escape, not be a hostage . . . In your own time, Lesley, in your own time Thanks, I think
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| Author: | Lesley [ Mon Dec 29, 2008 10:17 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 29/12. Page 1 |
Oh yes, didn't I tell you? I'm on holiday now, won't be back for two weeks.....  (Good idea Beth! 
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| Author: | Sugar [ Mon Dec 29, 2008 11:19 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 29/12. Page 1 |
knows Lesley won't kill Geri off. Brilliant Lesley as usual. Thank you |
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| Author: | Pat [ Mon Dec 29, 2008 11:24 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 29/12. Page 1 |
Looking forward to some more, and wondering if taking bets will work a second time!!
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| Author: | MHE [ Tue Dec 30, 2008 12:40 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 29/12. Page 1 |
Thank you Lesley, I think. We can but try Pat
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| Author: | Lesley [ Tue Dec 30, 2008 9:24 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 29/12. Page 1 |
keren wrote: Unbelievable Sorry you didn't like it Keren. Hope you like this bit more. “No-one’s killing her,” Butcher said firmly. “It’s okay, Butcher,” McCall smiled, “I don’t expect you to do it,” she reached into her pocket and pulled out her flick knife. She moved to place it on Shaw’s throat. Butcher moved fast; still holding Shaw by the shoulder with her left hand, she spun round and reached for McCall, grabbing hold of her wrist and stopping the knife inches from Shaw‘s throat, “Drop the knife, McCall,” Butcher said, and her voice was quiet and dangerous, “drop it or I’ll break your wrist.” McCall must have realised that her friend meant what she said as, after only a split second, her hand opened and she allowed the knife to fall to the ground. The two convicts stared at each other for some seconds before Butcher released McCall’s wrist, “No one’s killing her,” she repeated. McCall took a deep breath, “Okay, you’re the boss,” she said quietly, “but now what? We can’t leave her here - one of the other screws might release her before we’ve had a chance to get away.” Butcher thought for a moment then nodded toward the jeep, “Open the back door,” she ordered, once the door was opened Butcher forced Shaw inside and onto the back seat. Prior to leaving she spoke to Shaw for the first time, “Can you breathe, Shaw?” Geri Shaw refused to answer, instead angrily turning her head away, Butcher caught the Governor’s head, forced the angry woman to look at her, “Dammit Shaw I’m serious, that’s duct tape - it stops you breathing through your mouth - can you breathe?” Perhaps Shaw realised that Butcher meant it as, after a short pause, she nodded abruptly. “Okay then, don’t go away,” so saying Butcher first wrapped a short length of rope around the jeep’s head rest and then loosely around Shaw’s neck. It did not restrict her breathing in any way but it did mean she was unable to move away from the headrest. Butcher then closed the jeep door leaving Shaw on her own. McCall looked across, “Well? It’d be easier to just kill her here, Ann, we take her with us we’ll be storing up problems later.” “I told you, no-one’s killing her,” Butcher said with finality. McCall took a breath, “Okay, then she comes with us – least to start with – but we’ll need to find somewhere to dump her and know she can’t pass on anything that’d give the pigs any clues.” Butcher stood thinking for some time then, slowly, shook her head, “No,” she said quietly, “we’re not doing that either.” McCall looked surprised, “We’ve got to do one or the other, Butcher,” she said, “she’ll give the alarm otherwise. We can’t risk just tying her up and leaving her here - we need time to get away and she could stop us.” “Not if I stay here,” Butcher replied, “keep her quiet. You’ll only need, what, twenty or thirty minutes to get clear, won’t you?” “Well yeah, but,” McCall bit her lip, “I thought you wanted out too?” “No, not really,” Butcher said quietly, “I know you said it would be a good life, where you’re going but…” she sighed, indicated the prison walls, “I belong back there, I know that, really. Been trying to convince myself otherwise for the last few weeks but it’s no use. Besides, you wouldn’t be safe - they’ll never stop looking if I go, I killed a screw, didn’t I?” “Yes but,” McCall shook her head, “they’d never find us, Butcher, not where we’re going.” “Maybe not, but it’s not just that,” Butcher replied, she indicated the prison again, “in there I make a difference. Outside…even with you, Amy and the baby it wouldn’t take long before I’d get bored - and then I’d go after banks, or security guards. How long before I was on the run in Brazil? And it would lead them to you. You’ve got a chance here, a chance to go straight, a chance to bring that baby up properly. I don’t want to mess that up for you.” McCall placed both hands on Butcher’s shoulders, “You know you’re welcome,” she said quietly, “I mean, I was prepared to take the risk of having you along.” “I know,” Butcher said with a smile, “now you go, I can give you thirty minutes head start, alright?” McCall nodded, “That’ll be fine,” she paused then, “but are you sure?” She indicated their captive in the jeep, “I mean, she’s not going to be happy, is she?” Butcher’s smile widened, “No, she’s going to be somewhat pissed at me, McCall. But I’ll survive. Now get going, will you? Go join up with Amy and your granddaughter – give them a decent life, okay?” “I’ll never see you again.” Butcher shrugged, “Doesn’t matter – we both know this is for the best.” McCall nodded, “Won’t forget this, Butcher,” she said quickly, “I knew your rep was high but this? I’ll spread the story round, everyone’ll know. And I’ll get word to you somehow, let you know we’ve made it, alright? And thanks,” she reached forward and drew the younger woman into a quick embrace before turning and racing over to the nearby fence. It was an act of only moments for her to scale the fence and disappear. Butcher watched her go then heaved a deep sigh and turned back to face the prison, “Okay,” she whispered to herself, “so this is your choice now. And knowing that will mean you can deal with it. They didn’t put you in there - you chose to go in,” she swallowed quickly a few times then reached for the jeep’s door handle to let herself into the back of the vehicle. Inside Butcher reached across to release the rope holding Geri’s head to the headrest, she took a breath quickly then spoke, “You give me your word you’ll not try and call for help and I’ll remove the gag.” There were some seconds of complete stillness before Shaw nodded reluctantly, Butcher reached over and released the gag. Shaw quickly worked her jaw, trying to relieve the discomfort. After some time Butcher spoke again, “Well aren’t you going to say anything?” Shaw turned to look directly at the inmate, her eyes, normally a pale blue, now dark with anger, “I have nothing to say to you, Butcher,” she said with finality. |
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| Author: | Carolyn P [ Tue Dec 30, 2008 12:55 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 30/12. Page 2 |
I presume that Geri couldn't hear that conversation. |
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| Author: | keren [ Tue Dec 30, 2008 1:20 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 29/12. Page 1 |
Lesley wrote: keren wrote: Unbelievable Sorry you didn't like it Keren. Hope you like this bit more. I did not mean I did ot like it, but amazing, unbelievalbe good. Sorry if you did not understand, you must know that I love your writing, and the only problem is that there is not an episode every day (but today there was) . |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Tue Dec 30, 2008 1:38 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 29/12. Page 1 |
keren wrote: Lesley wrote: keren wrote: Unbelievable Sorry you didn't like it Keren. Hope you like this bit more. I did not mean I did not like it, but amazing, unbelievable good. Sorry if you did not understand, you must know that I love your writing, and the only problem is that there is not an episode every day (but today there was) . Oh that's alright then - was worried when I first read the comment!
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| Author: | Lottie [ Tue Dec 30, 2008 2:42 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 30/12. Page 2 |
Well, that's my faith in Butcher restored - I never thought she'd really go through with it! But what's it all done to her relationship with Geri? I imagine they're going to find it hard to get back to the old friendship. Although Geri must realise that Butcher has effectively saved her life. Again! Thanks, Lesley! |
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| Author: | MaryR [ Tue Dec 30, 2008 5:46 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 30/12. Page 2 |
Uh, oh!  Love the sentiments, Butcher, but I don't think Geri will, somehow. Thanks, Lesley. |
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| Author: | Nell [ Tue Dec 30, 2008 5:56 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 30/12. Page 2 |
Wow. Thank you Lesley! |
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| Author: | Pat [ Tue Dec 30, 2008 8:43 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 30/12. Page 2 |
I hope they can sort their relationship out and bring it back to something like it was before. Thanks Lesley. |
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| Author: | Sugar [ Tue Dec 30, 2008 9:53 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 30/12. Page 2 |
Lesley I honestly wonder at your brilliance sometimes. And your deviousness obviously I can't imagine Geri will be too thrilled with Butcher even if she did save her life. Wondering how things are going to pan out. Thanks Lesley |
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| Author: | Ruth B [ Wed Dec 31, 2008 11:49 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 30/12. Page 2 |
But surely she'll be transferred to Cat A? Can't make much of difference from in there! |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Wed Dec 31, 2008 2:32 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 30/12. Page 2 |
Geri Shaw turned away from Butcher and gazed out of the window; she tried surreptitiously to loosen the bonds tying her wrists but without success. She looked at the door, wondering if she could open it with her knee, she thought she could. Then mentally shook her head; Butcher was sat beside her and at the first hint that her prisoner was attempting to escape Butcher would react. Geri knew that Butcher was far stronger - she had proven that only a short time ago, holding her helpless while McCall spoke of killing her. Geri hadn’t been able to hear anything that the two convicts had said after Butcher had forced her into the jeep. She knew they had been speaking about her, McCall had indicated her a couple of times; then Butcher had done the same, but seemingly with a smile, just before the two had hugged each other and McCall had run off. Shaw wondered why she had gone on alone. She’d seen Butcher glance at her watch a couple of times, did not know what she was waiting for. In the end her curiosity won and she spoke again, though careful to keep her face turned away, “Are you taking me with you, Butcher, as your hostage? Surely that will be dangerous for you - after all I’ll be able to pass on information about your escape route to the Police, won’t I?” Butcher nodded, “Yes you would,” she said quietly, “which is why I’m not going anywhere, I’m staying right here.” Shaw was puzzled but said nothing more, waiting in silence; after the thirty minutes had passed Butcher heaved a sigh then placed a hand on Shaw’s shoulder, “Time to get out,” she said, reaching across to open the jeep door and indicating to Shaw that she move. Shaw did as ordered, stepping out into the sunshine and swiftly looking round. She hoped to see someone, anyone, but was disappointed. “What now, Butcher?” “Now?” Butcher stood beside her and reached into her pocket, “now I use this,” she withdrew the knife and flicked open the blade. Shaw’s eyes widened but before she could say anything Butcher had propelled her round so she was facing away from the convict. Shaw felt a sawing motion at her wrists or more precisely at the tape imprisoning her wrists, then suddenly her wrists were free. She spun round, ignoring the protests from her shoulders, “Why did you…” she paused as Butcher, seeing Shaw was watching her, deliberately held the knife out to her side then dropped it to the ground, the blade digging into the dirt. “You’re free now, Shaw,” Butcher said quietly. Shaw did not move, instead, almost without thinking, she picked free the rest of the tape stuck to her wrists, “Free? For how long, Butcher? As long as I continue to obey you? I know how quickly you can move and I’m under no illusions about your strength. Dropping that knife means nothing - you don’t need a knife to kill.” Butcher swallowed quickly but said nothing, instead she looked down at the ground, searching for something. Suddenly spotting it she walked across and picked an object from the floor and walked over to press it into Shaw’s hand, “It’s still working,” she said still in the same quiet voice, “they’re tough little machines. Use it.” Geri looked at the mobile phone in her hand then, watching Butcher the entire time, she lifted the phone to her mouth, pressing a button as she did so. A short wait then, “Gatehouse, State Prison.” “This is the Governor, put me through to the Senior Officer,” a short wait then, “Pat Francis speaking.” “This is Governor Shaw,” Shaw said quickly, her tones indicating the formality, “I’m standing in the Staff Car Park. There has been an escape attempt by two inmates, one of whom is still at large. Sound the alarm, place the Prison on lockdown and contact the Police - I was a witness, I’m sure they will want a statement.” “Er…yes…at once, Governor,” Mrs Francis’ voice reflected her shock, “do you know the identities of the two inmates?” “Butcher and McCall,” Shaw replied, “McCall is still at large and unfortunately has a thirty minute head start. Oh and send the Riot Squad to the Car Park to pick up Butcher - she‘s near the rear of the car park, next to my jeep.” “Yes Governor.” Geri disconnected the call and looked across at Butcher, “I’d have come back with you, you know, Shaw,” Butcher said quietly, “the Riot Squad’s not necessary.” Geri raised an eyebrow, “I have no reason to trust you now, Butcher,” she said flatly. |
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| Author: | Jennie [ Wed Dec 31, 2008 2:56 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 31/12. Page 2 |
Oh oh! Doesn't Lesley love to have us on the edges of our seats? |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Wed Dec 31, 2008 2:56 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 31/12. Page 2 |
Oh Butcher and Geri.  Thanks Lesley, am glad Butcher didn't escape. I always thought she'd end up staying mainly cos she was able to help so many inmated
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| Author: | Carolyn P [ Wed Dec 31, 2008 4:54 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 31/12. Page 2 |
I do wish Geri had been able to return Butcher without calling the riot squad, although she is right in not being able to trust Butcher...a very difficult situation. |
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| Author: | blue1 [ Wed Dec 31, 2008 5:36 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 31/12. Page 2 |
Thanks. More please its an addiction you know, can't help myself. Whenever your ready is fine really its great.
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| Author: | Pat [ Wed Dec 31, 2008 8:59 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 31/12. Page 2 |
It's awful for both of them isn't it? Geri must feel so betrayed and she has no way of knowing what Burcher and McCall were saying. |
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| Author: | Sugar [ Wed Dec 31, 2008 9:42 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 31/12. Page 2 |
Lesley did you really have to do that? Couldn't you have let Butcher just go back inside willingly. |
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| Author: | Cath V-P [ Thu Jan 01, 2009 5:07 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 31/12. Page 2 |
I'm not sure that Butcher knew what she was going to do right down until that decision had to be made...and it may be that whatever decision she made she has lost something she can't regain. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sat Jan 03, 2009 6:24 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 31/12. Page 2 |
Can someone explain why I can't sleep?  At the words Butcher paled slightly but said nothing, the two waited, neither speaking, until there was the sound of running feet and they both looked across to see six prison officers wearing body armour suddenly appear. The Riot Squad stopped in some confusion on seeing the two women, the officer in charge looking across at Shaw, “Er, Governor, your orders?” “Place Butcher under restraint and take her to Solitary,” Shaw replied. “Yes Governor,” the squad moved toward Butcher with some trepidation however Butcher gave no resistance, allowing the officers to handcuff her and march her away. It was some hours later before the two women saw each other again, Butcher was taken immediately to Solitary while Shaw went to her office to attempt damage limitation. During that time the prison had remained on lockdown and, once it was established that a key must have been used, Shaw recalled all off-duty staff and ordered a Level One search of the entire prison. There was also the police interviews to cope with by both Shaw and Butcher; although these were ultimately very frustrating as Shaw was unable to give very much information to the questioners while Butcher simply refused to answer any questions. Of McCall there was no sign and little in the way of clues. It was quite late in the evening before Shaw ordered that Butcher be brought to her office in the Admin Block. “I understand that you have refused to co-operate with the Police, Butcher?” Shaw spoke without preamble, as soon as the two Officers from Solitary had escorted Butcher into the room. Butcher shrugged, “Did you expect anything different?” Shaw’s eyes narrowed, “I don’t know what to expect from you, Butcher,” she replied, “all my previous convictions with regard to your behaviour have been destroyed by your actions today. McCall will be found.” “I doubt it,” Butcher said calmly, “if they’ve not found her yet then it’s likely they never will.” “We’ll see,” Shaw said, she looked down at her desk, leafing through some papers from a file, “I suppose I should have expected no less,” she continued, half to herself, “I mean you took pains to inform me on a number of occasions that we were still on opposite sides, didn’t you? After twenty-three years you would think that I had the experience and knowledge to realise that any relationship between an Officer and a career criminal was doomed to failure.” Butcher sighed, “I’m sorry, Shaw,” she began, “I never intended this to…” “You no longer have permission to address me by my surname, Butcher,” Geri interrupted, “you will use my correct title from now on.” Butcher licked her lips, “Fine, Governor then. But I never intended my actions here to in any way hurt or damage you. I’m sorry.” “Well unfortunately for you, Butcher, I find I can trust your word no more than I trust your actions. As far as I’m concerned you have just used your relationship with me to your own advantage. That will no longer be possible,” she finished looking through the papers then took a deep breath, “your actions today have, of course, led to you facing charges for your actions. You face charges of attempting to escape lawful custody as well as kidnapping. Normally I would be notifying an inmate to prepare for a formal court case. However for you that is hardly necessary - you already have a life, no parole sentence therefore it is not worthwhile. Instead the Prison will deal with the matter internally. I did consider whether transfer to Category A was justified however decided that, instead, the rest of the inmates within this establishment needed to be made aware of the consequences of your actions. Therefore you are sentenced to six months Solitary confinement.” At the sentence Butcher swallowed swiftly, aware that the sentence was the longest she had spent in Solitary for any one time, Shaw was not finished however and continued, “I know that you regard Solitary as a ‘rest cure’ though and therefore make this additional punishment, you will wear restraints between the hours of eight am and six pm, said restraints will be removed only for you to use the hygiene facilities or to eat,” Shaw looked across at the prisoner in front of her, “I’m well aware of the fact that wearing restraints is very distasteful to you - perhaps this will emphasis both my personal displeasure at your behaviour and the seriousness of your misconduct. Have you anything to say?” “No Miss Shaw,” Butcher replied quietly. “Take her back then,” Shaw addressed the two guards. |
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| Author: | Elbee [ Sat Jan 03, 2009 11:54 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 03/01. Page 3 |
Geri is so hurt, I wonder if they will ever be able to salvage any of their friendship. Thanks, Lesley, hope you sleep better tonight! |
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| Author: | ibarhis [ Sat Jan 03, 2009 2:13 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 03/01. Page 3 |
Ouch - that must have been very hard to write. |
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| Author: | MaryR [ Sat Jan 03, 2009 5:10 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 03/01. Page 3 |
But what else did Butcher expect? She must always have known that it would be seen as a betrayal of their friendship. Perhaps Hilda's mercy and gentleness would help here. Thanks, Lesley. |
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| Author: | Pat [ Sat Jan 03, 2009 10:29 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 03/01. Page 3 |
I don't expect she'll be able to have visitors in solitary though. I suspect that it'll take some sort of incident to even start to repair the relationship between those two. |
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| Author: | MaryR [ Sat Jan 03, 2009 10:52 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 03/01. Page 3 |
Pat wrote: I don't expect she'll be able to have visitors in solitary though. I wasn't thinking of Butcher, Pat, but of Geri. Maybe Hilda can work on her, especially if Geri tells her how Butcher prevented her being killed. It was only the mumblings of my disordered mind, alas....
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| Author: | Cath V-P [ Sat Jan 03, 2009 11:18 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 03/01. Page 3 |
The trouble is that there hasn't been time for either of them to really consider what has happened, let alone why. And while Butcher may have had some idea about how this might affect her interactions with Geri, the latter is still dealing with the fact of what Butcher has done - or apparently done. Thank you Lesley - hope you sleep better tonight! |
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| Author: | Sugar [ Sat Jan 03, 2009 11:47 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 03/01. Page 3 |
Wonder what 6months solitary is going to do to Butcher's psychological health. It's a shame that Geri hasn't had space to process what happened and why. Intrigued to see where Lesley is going to go with it now. Hope you sleep better tonight but you could always write more if you don't!
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Sun Jan 04, 2009 8:40 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 03/01. Page 3 |
Poor Butcher. I doubt she really see's Solitary as a rest cure but has said it to keep up appearances and not to let anyone see how it affects her. Regardless if Geri forgives Butcher, I wonder if Butcher will forgive Geri especially if Butcher did stop McCall from killing her. I wonder if Butcher will end up regretting her decision |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sun Jan 04, 2009 6:48 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 03/01. Page 3 |
Three days later saw Pat Francis visiting Solitary as part of her normal duties; she first spoke with the Officers there, checking if they had any problems, then went on to speak with the inmates. There were seven inmates serving sentences in Solitary - most of them due to the Level One search and it’s aftermath. Pat took the time to speak with each of them, spending some time alone with each inmate to ensure that they had no complaints about their treatment and to check they were receiving any medication required. She also checked if they had any letters to post, taking them with her so the inmates were assured that the mail would be posted and they could not accuse the officers in Solitary of destroying it . The last inmate she saw was Butcher; she arrived at Butcher’s cell just after the midday meal had been served. Butcher’s restraints had been released to allow her to eat and she was sitting on her bed halfway through her meal. As the cell door opened she looked across, “Mrs Francis?” “Don’t let me interrupt, Butcher,” Pat said, indicating to the officer with her to close the door, she walked across to stand next to the bed. Butcher gave a rueful smile, “Any excuse to prolong the moment, Mrs Francis,” she said, “while I’m chatting to you they won’t come in and chain me up again.” Francis nodded, “And do you have any complaints about your treatment, Butcher?” she asked softly. Butcher shook her head, her expression sad, “I’ll tell you the same thing I did yesterday and the day before, Mrs Francis,” she said, “any complaint I might make will go directly to the Governor - and she will just ignore it - so there’s no point.” “The Governor would not…” Pat began before she was interrupted. “Yes she would,” Butcher said firmly, “same as she’s managing to ignore me by not visiting Solitary for the past three days. It’s the Governor’s job to come here every day, not yours. Senior Officer only comes if the Governor’s not working.” Pat Francis swallowed quickly before replying, “Miss Shaw has been extremely busy for the past few days, Butcher, she has had a great deal of paperwork and additional reports to write.” Butcher nodded, “Yeah, shall I make a prediction, Mrs Francis? That extra work is going to continue for the next six months.” Pat did not reply, mainly because she had a horrible feeling that Butcher was probably right, she took another breath then changed the subject, “Do you have any letters to be posted?” Although in isolation inmates were allowed to both send and receive mail. Butcher shook her head, “Not got any writing paper or pens, Mrs Francis. Did think about using the toilet roll but wasn’t sure whether the mail service would accept it - especially as I’d have to write in blood!” Pat frowned, “You should have been issued with writing paper and pens?” Butcher shrugged, “Didn’t happen,” she said, “couldn’t say why. I mentioned it to the scr…officer yesterday evening and they said they’d look into it.” Pat Francis’ eyes narrowed slightly and she made a mental note to discover who Butcher had spoken to, to the inmate she added, “I will be back later this afternoon with supplies, Butcher.” “Thanks Mrs Francis,” Butcher replied, “no big rush though, I won’t be able to write until after six anyway.” Pat nodded, she thought for a moment then spoke again, “The prison, of course, is still on lockdown at the moment, while the Level One search continues.” “I gathered,” Butcher replied, “it’s the reason Solitary is so full too, isn’t it?” “It is,” Francis confirmed, she paused then added, “while on my rounds in North Wing earlier today I was speaking with Rees.” “Oh yes?” Butcher looked interested. “Yes, she wanted me to pass on a message to you that she was very pleased that you had stayed and that everything would be kept running for your return. Of course I had to tell her that I was unable to pass messages to those serving sentences in Solitary.” Butcher slowly smiled, “Of course, Mrs Francis,” she said, “Rees should have realised that. Thanks.” Mrs Francis nodded and moved to exit the cell, as the door was unlocked she turned back to Butcher again, “Miss Shaw was very hurt and angered by what happened on Sunday, Butcher - just give her a little time.” Butcher nodded, “Yeah well, time I’ve got in abundance, haven’t I?” |
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| Author: | Lottie [ Sun Jan 04, 2009 8:05 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 03/01. Page 3 |
Lesley wrote: “It is,” Francis confirmed, she paused then added, “while on my rounds in North Wing earlier today I was speaking with Rees.” “Oh yes?” Butcher looked interested. “Yes, she wanted me to pass on a message to you that she was very pleased that you had stayed and that everything would be kept running for your return. Of course I had to tell her that I was unable to pass messages to those serving sentences in Solitary.” Butcher slowly smiled, “Of course, Mrs Francis,” she said, “Rees should have realised that. Thanks.” Nice one, Pat! I presume Butcher won't be allowed any vistors while she's in Solitary, so it would be hard for Hilda or Nell to do much to help. Maybe Pat's the right person to mediate between Butcher and Geri. Thanks, Lesley!
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| Author: | PaulineS [ Sun Jan 04, 2009 9:25 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 04/01. Page 3 |
Wonder if Rees has sent the letters Butcher had written before the escape attempt. Did she write one to Geri and if so will it help? We know she wrote one to Hilda and Nell so they might get involved in repairing relationship. Pleased Pat is getting involved, and is understanding of both Butcher and Geri. |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Sun Jan 04, 2009 9:57 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 04/01. Page 3 |
Naturally Geri feels horribly betrayed, but -- somehow more of my sympathies are with Butcher at the moment. She's really done a remarkable job of balancing loyalties. *worries* *suspects both of them will be keeping Lesley awake* Mutters something about how McCall's family had better not make a mockery of what Butcher's done for them. |
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| Author: | Sugar [ Sun Jan 04, 2009 11:22 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 04/01. Page 3 |
Sounds like she's not being treated fairly in Solitary either. Hopefully Pat will be able to mediate between Geri and Butcher. It's a bit of a mess though. |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Mon Jan 05, 2009 12:25 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 04/01. Page 3 |
That was really nice of Pat. Hope Geri calms down soon. And am hoping Hilda and Nell are able to intervene or at least write to Butcher |
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| Author: | MaryR [ Mon Jan 05, 2009 8:44 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 04/01. Page 3 |
Perhaps Geri is allowing Butcher a taste of how she herself feels.... Thanks, Lesley. |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Mon Jan 05, 2009 10:26 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 04/01. Page 3 |
The next day following handover Geri Shaw made a request of her Senior Officer, “Oh Pat, I’m snowed under with paperwork at the moment – would you please cover Solitary for me today?” “No, Geri.” “The number of reports I’ve got at the…did you just say no, Pat?” Pat Francis nodded, “Yes, Governor, I said no.” “But…why? I’m sorry are you busy at the moment? I’ll ask…” “I’m not busy, Governor,” Pat said firmly, “or at least no more than normal – but I think it’s about time you stopped avoiding the issue.” ”Avoiding the issue?” Geri shook her head, “I’m afraid I don’t know what you mean.” ”Yes you do,” Pat’s reply was gentle, “you’re avoiding the issue of Butcher and being extremely unfair to her in the bargain. If that’s not enough your actions are influencing other staff to do the same.” “Influencing other staff? What do you mean?” ”I mean that, until yesterday afternoon when I delivered some supplies myself, Butcher was without any writing material. Those serving sentences in Solitary have little enough in the way of rights, Geri – Butcher in particular – without depriving her of the one thing that will give her some contact with the outside world.” Shaw looked shocked, “I gave no such order, Pat,” she said, shaking her head. “No, but your attitude has been noted by the staff and some of the more junior ones have translated that to punishing Butcher even more than she has been already.” “Who?” Pat shook her head, “It doesn’t matter, I’ve dealt with it. But you need to visit Solitary, Geri,” she paused then added, “and you need to speak to Butcher.” At this Geri’s expression darkened and she frowned, “I can’t speak to her, Pat,” she said quietly, “I don’t think I’ll ever be able to speak to her again.” “You’re going to spend the next four years completely ignoring one of your inmates, Governor? That’s not the Geri Shaw who, when I was just a rookie, told me that a Prison Officer has to treat all inmates fairly, regardless of their crime.” “You don’t understand, Pat,” Geri spat back, “I thought she was a friend, she betrayed me.” “Oh yes? From what I understand Butcher stopped McCall from killing you. That’s twice now in under a year - how many times does she have to do it before you at least give her a chance?” “I’ve given her chances, lots of them, I’ve pushed her into being part of committees, allowing her to make a real difference to the conditions in here - and see how she repays me? Attempting escape with some other thug who’s a member of the same fraternity of career criminal. I can’t forgive that - she used me, Pat, used the fact that I took her out in the grounds for walks so she could assess areas, got me to allow her to view the outside of the prison by arranging for her to go in a car rather than a van. She even had me feeling guilty last week for subjecting her to a search - when my instincts should have screamed that there was more to it. I can’t trust her…I’ll never be able to trust her.” Pat sighed, “Alright, maybe you can’t trust her - but you can treat her with the same fairness and compassion that you meet out to any other inmate in here - she deserves that much consideration at least.” |
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| Author: | Pat [ Mon Jan 05, 2009 10:47 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 05/01. Page 4 |
Good for you, Pat. I can understand how betrayed Geri feels, but she's lost her way here. |
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| Author: | abbeybufo [ Mon Jan 05, 2009 10:56 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 05/01. Page 4 |
Well done Pat! - she's probably the only one who could have said that to Geri Thanks Lesley |
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| Author: | PaulineS [ Mon Jan 05, 2009 11:47 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 05/01. Page 4 |
Thank goodness Pat can speak to Geri like that. Someone needs to ask Burtcher why McCall could get her to think about escaping. Not knowing as we do that McCall was family to Butcher when she had no-one makes her actions more difficult to understand. Geri needs to know Butcher put her before her older friend at risk to herself. She may not trust Butcher again, but she may see that she can treat her fairly as any other prisoner. Thanks Lesley |
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| Author: | keren [ Tue Jan 06, 2009 6:28 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 05/01. Page 4 |
thing is you don't get points for what you did not do, only punished for what she did do. i.e there is no reward for the fact that in the end she did not escape, and that she did no damage to Shaw, only"punishment" for kidnapping, whereas she did this instead of killing. When will Geri see the situation clearly, maybe only if Hilda explains this to her. |
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| Author: | abbeygirl [ Thu Jan 08, 2009 8:19 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 05/01. Page 4 |
I'm glad that Butcher didn't go in the end and hopefully when Geri does get around to talking to Hilda she will point out that Butcher still could have escaped, that she did once again save Geri's life - but on the other hand what Geri says is true - Butcher did use their relationship to help the escape. It will be extremely interesting to see where they go from here - at the moment Geri is still reacting as a friend who has been betrayed, not as a prison governer - a good one who is fair to her charges whatever they have done and whoever they might be. Fascinating as always Lesley... |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Thu Jan 08, 2009 11:14 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 05/01. Page 4 |
Later that day saw the Governor walking across to Solitary; she had taken on board the criticism from Pat Francis where she would probably have rejected it from anyone else and was determined to repair the damage she had inadvertently caused. Accordingly her first action, on reaching Solitary was to speak with the Prison Officers there. She explained immediately, “Mrs Francis had informed me that she had to provide writing materials for an inmate yesterday,” she began, “that said inmate had not been provided with them even though she had already served four days in Solitary? Now I’m not looking to discover the culprit’s identity, Pat has informed me that she has dealt with the situation and that’s good enough for me. However I will just add this, as Prison Officers, it is your job to treat all the inmates with fairness and compassion. The one thing, above all else, that you must retain, is your own integrity - and that means you do not allow your own values to be compromised by anyone,” Geri paused and her gaze rested for a moment of the flushed face of the rookie officer Jane Emmott, she continued, “the inmates must be able to rely upon you for impartial treatment. They must not feel that you can be influenced by anything another officer might think,” Geri paused there, content that she had got her message across. She asked to see the inmates and spent some time with each inmate, asking them if they had any complaints, if there were any problems, any difficulties. With the exception of Butcher the inmates had all been awarded sentences in Solitary due to infractions being discovered during the Level One search. Mainly the sentences were small and obvious to Geri as she moved from cell to cell - the name of the inmate and their sentence were both written on a card and slipped into a grove in the door for that purpose. The sentences ranged from just two or three days up to a maximum of ten days so when Shaw reached the final cell door it was almost a shock to see 59388 Butcher A.S. Escaping lawful custody and kidnapping - sentence six months - release date 22nd September 2007. Shaw indicated that the cell door should be unlocked. Inside Butcher lay on her bed, her eyes close and her hands clasped together; she appeared to be asleep and did not react as the door was unlocked and opened. Shaw indicated to the Officer to lock the door behind her and stepped into the cell. There was silence for a few seconds then, without opening her eyes or moving, Butcher spoke, “Mrs Francis refuse to do your dirty work anymore, did she?” “What’s that supposed to mean?” Geri was immediately defensive. Butcher shrugged, the action looking strange when viewed on the horizontal, “Just that it seems strange that the Governor has been really busy the last four days then, suddenly, she appears. You any less busy today?” “That’s none of your concern, Butcher,” Shaw said sternly, “I will not tolerate insolence.” Butcher took a deep breath and smiled rather sadly, “Only five days ago you would have accepted that as just normal banter.” “Only five days ago I thought that we were friends,” Shaw replied. Butcher swallowed quickly then slowly sat up and swung her legs to the floor; the chain between the leg irons making a sharp clatter as it hit the floor, she took a deep breath then looked across at the woman standing near the door, “I know that what happened on Sunday hurt you, Shaw,” she began, “I know that I used you, used our friendship to obtain information, to help me in the escape. I’m really sorry. Please believe me though, I never intended to hurt you. I valued…and value our friendship - it’s one of the things that makes me staying in prison for the rest of my life seem bearable. I wouldn’t want to lose that.” Shaw’s eyes darkened, “You were told before about the correct method of addressing me, Butcher,” she said abruptly, “as for our friendship? That no longer exists - and I was a fool to imagine that it ever meant anything to you. From now on, Butcher - you are just another inmate, another number.” Butcher nodded slowly, her eyes dark and full of regret, “Fine, if that’s what you want,” she said quietly. “It is,” Shaw’s tones allowed no thought of any softening of her stance, “now, I am here for my regular daily visit, have you any complaints, concerns or problems?” The convict shook her head, “No Governor.” “I understand that you did not receive any writing materials? Has that been resolved?” “Yes Governor - got a couple of letters there to go out,” Butcher nodded toward her desk on which were two envelopes, both unsealed, “didn’t seal them as I knew you’d want to read them first.” Shaw’s expression hardened, “I have no interest in your correspondence, Butcher,” she replied while retrieving the envelopes, “however, as you are well aware, letters may be subject to censor. And your letters will also be subject to further investigation by the Police.” “Well there’s nothing in there that you’ll find interesting, Governor,” Butcher replied, “ and the cops won‘t find McCall‘s whereabouts either - I‘m not stupid.“ “You would be wise to consider talking to the Police, Butcher,” Shaw said quickly, “if you continue to refuse you could face additional punishment.” Butcher shrugged, “Not going to happen,” she said firmly, she then stretched out on her bed again and closed her eyes, “See you tomorrow, Shaw.” Geri Shaw’s eyes narrowed at the use of her surname again, she took a quick breath, “One last thing, Butcher, you have, of course, been removed from both of the committees that you were a part of and the drug talks to schools have been cancelled. I felt in inappropriate for you to continue to benefit from any of these activities due to your behaviour.” Butcher’s face went blank and she opened eyes that were dark with emotion, she looked across at the Governor, “Fine,” she said quietly, “you do what you have to do.” |
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| Author: | Pat [ Thu Jan 08, 2009 11:25 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 08/01. Page 4 |
They're both really struggling here aren't they? I really hope they can sort something out. |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Thu Jan 08, 2009 11:31 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 08/01. Page 4 |
Do feel sorry for Butcher as she will always be caught between two different kinds of friendships- the criminals and the law-abiding. It would be a tough act to balance and I think she's done it admirably. Only the fact that she chose to go back to Prison will be of any comfort to Butcher now. Hope Geri starts understanding soon. She may find she'll regret her decisions when Butcher is out of solitary and they're no longer on the same side so to speak |
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| Author: | blue1 [ Thu Jan 08, 2009 11:36 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 08/01. Page 4 |
Pat wrote: They're both really struggling here aren't they? I really hope they can sort something out. Agreed. Thanks Lesley. Any chance of finding out what is happening with Nell and her job??  Edited to say: Sorry just re-read what i wrote and i don't mean for it to sound like i'm ungrateful or being greedy its not ment like that. so sorry and thanks again. |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Fri Jan 09, 2009 12:24 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 08/01. Page 4 |
Oh, dear. I know Pat was right that Geri was neglecting her duties, but now wonder whether she should nevertheless have taken a longer cooling off period. Talk about rubbing salt into the wound! What happened to "fairness and compassion"? She should at least give Butcher a chance to explain. |
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| Author: | PaulineS [ Fri Jan 09, 2009 9:50 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 08/01. Page 4 |
Quote: Geri Shaw’s eyes narrowed at the use of her surname again, she took a quick breath, “One last thing, Butcher, you have, of course, been removed from both of the committees that you were a part of and the drug talks to schools have been cancelled. I felt in inappropriate for you to continue to benefit from any of these activities due to your behaviour.” I do not think Butcher does them for her benift, but for the benift of others. Wonder what will happen when the committee members try out prison life? Will Geri realise how much she relied on Butcher to keep them safe. |
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| Author: | Carolyn P [ Fri Jan 09, 2009 10:58 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 08/01. Page 4 |
Ouch, that begins to show the depth of Geri's hurt. |
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| Author: | MaryR [ Fri Jan 09, 2009 1:32 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 08/01. Page 4 |
But Butcher acknowledges that Geri is right - she did abuse the friendship. Both of them knew they were walking a fine line in their relationship, and Geri now thinks she was at fault to allow such closeness - and who can blame her, whatever Butcher's reasons? Thanks, Lesley. |
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| Author: | Tan [ Fri Jan 09, 2009 9:26 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 08/01. Page 4 |
Having worked briefly in a prison, Geri would be potentially disciplined for NOT taking some of these actions. Quite often an inmate who did what Butcher just did could face further court action. Taking part in the activities such as the committees etc is seen as a privilege. I do agree that Geri is allowing her hurt to influence her actions. However, I do have some sympathy for her here - Butcher did take advantage of her friendship and Geri does have to wear the ramifications of the successful escape. |
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| Author: | kirstyb01 [ Sat Jan 10, 2009 11:16 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 08/01. Page 4 |
Just wanted to say, as one new to the CBB - WOW I'm so enjoying this . Have just read mega amounts and now have to go back to RL and the housework. Please - what's happening with Andrew? |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sat Jan 10, 2009 11:23 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 08/01. Page 4 |
Pleased you're enjoying it, Kirsty. Not Andrew at the moment though, I'm afraid. Friday morning at the RCS saw Hilda and Nell sitting down to a leisurely breakfast after a run, Nell was speaking while carrying across two mugs of coffee, “Well your running is certainly improving,” she began, “you managed fully half of our normal circuit, even if it was at a far slower pace. How do you feel?” Hilda smiled, “A little ‘achy’ if you must know,” she confessed, “especially across the suture line - but my physio Jayne said that was to be expected. I don’t think I want to increase the distance or speed just yet,” she took a sip from her coffee and relaxed back. Nell looked across rather worriedly, “This past week hasn’t been too much for you, has it? I know you’ve thrown yourself back into the melee as though you had never been away.” “And I have thoroughly enjoyed it, Nell,” Hilda replied quickly, “I couldn’t believe how much I’d missed the work. I know I’ve been working long hours but the run up to the start of term is always ‘organised chaos’ - and we have managed to get most things done - I’ll be able to send everyone away for the weekend without difficulty.” “You don’t need me to come across and give you a hand then?” Nell asked, tongue in cheek. Hilda shook her head, “Even if I felt you were serious Nell, I wouldn’t accept the offer. Quite apart from anything else I have no wish to undermine Ruth - she had enough of that last term from Madge.” Nell grinned in response, “Talking of Madge, have you heard anything more from her?” “No, nothing,” Hilda replied, “and I must admit I was half expecting it.” “Hmmm, so was I - especially as the way she suddenly just capitulated last Friday was most unexpected.” “Perhaps she had suddenly realised that her views no longer had a place in a modern boarding school,” Hilda said a little sadly, “it’s most unfortunate that she didn’t feel able to move with the times.” “Especially as in all other aspects of business she has managed perfectly,” Nell agreed, “oh well, perhaps it is a side-effect of Dick dying - maybe Jem’s right and she will slowly recover. You said he would try to take Madge back to England once the transfer of RCS Industries was complete?” “So he said when he rang yesterday,” Hilda replied finishing her coffee, “he seems to feel that her being here in Australia isn’t helping. Though he did confess that it might be rather difficult for him to persuade her - she’s far less likely to just accept an order from him nowadays.” “Quite right too,” Nell returned decisively, “it always used to rankle very slightly whenever we were forced to follow his and Jack Maynard’s orders when with the original Chalet School. Even when the orders were completely contradicting things we, as teachers, knew were correct for the school.” “…‘rankle very slightly…?’,” Hilda smiled, “that’s a strange way to describe the way you reacted to one such episode - from what I remember that consisted of an entire hour of you cursing and swearing plus Gaudenz having to be sent down to Interlaken to buy a new pane of glass for my Study window after you threw a book through it.” Nell grinned somewhat sheepishly, “At least we managed to replace it without Her noticing,” she said, “and anyway, you were just as annoyed as me - just didn’t show it.” “True,” Hilda admitted, “and even though it might cause problems now I wouldn’t want a return to those times.” “Amen to that,” Nell replied, lifting her coffee cup in imitation of a toast, she walked over to pour herself some more coffee then ‘topped up’ Hilda’s cup before sitting down again. Hilda smiled her thanks then asked, “So what are you doing today then?” “I’ve got a few papers to go through this morning,” Nell replied, “and I’ll take a couple of hours off - there’s a lecture at six this evening that one of my associate lecturers is giving, thought I’d go along and listen in - he’s supposed to be good.” “Rather inconvenient of him to be working late,” Hilda observed. Nell shrugged, “Not really, the lecture theatres are well used and someone’s got to have the later slots. At least there’s less likelihood that a student will oversleep if it’s late.” “True, but more chance that they will already be in ‘weekend’ mode.” Nell grinned her agreement and went to answer a knock on the door. She returned with a number of letters for each of them, “Post’s early today, it normally doesn’t appear until mid-morning,” she remarked. “I think the Security Staff are bringing it to us first,” Hilda replied, rather than leaving us until later.” “Well it’s good, means I should be able to pick up any post before I have to leave for work,” Nell said while quickly flicking through her mail. She stopped when she got to one envelope, “Hilda have you…?” “A letter from Butcher?” Hilda interrupted, “yes I have. I wonder what she has to say?” “I expect she’s giving us her version of what happened last Sunday,” Nell said soberly, “I must admit I’ll be interested in her thoughts.” “Yes, especially as we already know just how badly it has affected Geri.” “She’s coming to dinner tomorrow, isn’t she?” “Yes, I think she needs to talk to people that are not involved,” Hilda sighed and stood up, placing Butcher’s envelope in her jacket pocket, “I’ll read this during my coffee break, I must go now, I have a meeting in five minutes.” Nell nodded absently, already reading her letter, she then frowned slightly and looked up, “Have you sorted out which weekends you’re covering yet?” “Not yet - this meeting will confirm duties.” “Well make sure you’re not covering next weekend. I’ve managed to get a couple of tickets for Verdi’s Requiem - performed by the Bach Choir and the Melbourne Symphony.” “How on earth did you manage that? Those tickets were sold out weeks ago,” Hilda asked with astonishment. “Music Department at Uni had a couple of spares,” Nell said with a smile, “and I thought I should show you that I can be civilised, even if only in short bursts. What time will you be stopping for lunch?” “Probably one.” “Okay well come across, I’ll have something waiting. See you later.” |
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| Author: | Cat C [ Sat Jan 10, 2009 11:28 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 08/01. Page 4 |
It's great reading all this, even though I still haven't caught up with all the back story yet (*%^($ thesis!).Thank you! |
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| Author: | Liane [ Sat Jan 10, 2009 11:32 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 08/01. Page 4 |
It'll be interesting too see what's in those letters. Thanks for the update Lesley |
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| Author: | abbeybufo [ Sat Jan 10, 2009 11:36 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 08/01. Page 4 |
Liane wrote: It'll be interesting too see what's in those letters. Yes, I wonder if they are what she was writing before the escape attempt, or what she's written since she's been in solitary? Thanks Lesley
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| Author: | Lesley [ Sun Jan 11, 2009 7:24 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 08/01. Page 4 |
Nell waved as the Head left the room then returned to reading her letter, Hiya Wilson, I expect you already know about what happened last Sunday? Well if not I’ll tell you, there was an attempted escape from the prison - me and another inmate name of McCall. She’s got away and I’m stuck in Solitary - sentence six months which is stiff enough as it is, but Shaw added a rider - I wear restraints from 8am to 6pm, apart from meal times. Basically because she wanted me to know I had crossed the line. Can’t say I blame her really - I mean she ended up in the middle of it because she saw us climbing out of the sewer. And I then stopped her from sounding the alarm. I didn’t mean to hurt her - but she ain’t listening to me any more. Sorry I couldn’t say anything beforehand - but I knew you’d consider it your duty to tell the authorities. I did have a letter all set to go to you when I’d got away - but instead I find myself writing this. I know what you’re going to ask - why the hell did I do it? And, having done it, why didn’t I go through with it. If Shaw hasn’t already told you then I will - I could have got away. It would have meant taking Shaw with us but I could have done it - made sure she didn’t see anything incriminating. So why didn’t I go? You’d probably understand this more than most - I felt an obligation to the rest of the women inside, an obligation not to let Shaw down, not to let my friends on the outside down. At the same time though, I felt a great loyalty and obligation toward McCall. I’ve known her since I was twelve. She wanted, needed to escape and asked me for help. I couldn’t let her down. In the end though, I realised that what was right for her wasn’t right for me. Whether I’d of realised that in time had Shaw not been there? I dunno - suppose from that respect it’s a good thing she was - even though it’s meant that she’s furious with me. Can’t blame her really - it’s never pleasant when someone else holds your life in their hands - and I did use our friendship to help plan the escape. Anyway, whether I’ll ever have any sort of relationship with Shaw again is doubtful at the moment. But I hope we can remain friends? I’m going to be in Isolation for the next six months - longest term I’ve ever served - and would appreciate getting letters/news from you. Solitary’s not too bad - the screws are okay and take the trouble to talk to you plus you can always chat to the other inmates during your exercise break. Even so, it still means that 23 hours a day you’re staring at blank walls. There’s only so much reading you can do - mobile library does visit a few times a week but their choice is a bit limited. If you could manage to write a few times it’d help stave off the boredom. Thanks Butcher Nell read through the letter a couple of times and then immediately searched for her writing case to write a reply. She spent the next hour or so writing to Butcher then place the letter in an envelope and stamped it, intending to hand it in to the Gatehouse for posting later than day. She then retrieved her laptop and spent the rest of the morning reading through papers and making changes and comments. It was only just after noon when the door to the cottage opened and Hilda Annersley walked in, Nell looked up from her laptop, “Hello! You’re earlier than I expected, you’ll have to wait…” she stopped, suddenly aware that something was very wrong, for a moment she did not recognise it, thinking that Hilda was upset about something then it suddenly hit her, Hilda was not upset, she was angry, very angry, “What is it? What’s happened?” In reply Hilda thrust some sheets of paper at her friend and stalked over to gaze out of the window. Seriously concerned now Nell swiftly unfolded the topmost paper and read the printed words, “She can’t do that!” Hilda looked back at the exclamation, “Yes she can, apparently,” she said, her voice as quiet as ever, “she even had a lawyer with her to confirm everything. ‘Irreconcilable differences between my ideas and those of the owner of the Real Chalet School.’ I did have the option of introducing all of Madge’s ideas but…” “But you refused,” Nell said grimly, “of course you did,” she walked over to stand beside her friend and placed an arm around her shoulders, “surely you should be given notice though, and time to appeal?” Hilda shook her head, “Apparently not, for the well-being of the School it was decided that I should be paid in lieu of notice - ‘a generous package’ apparently. Madge did not want another term to pass before being able to guide the School back to the ideals and parameters first put in place when it was founded more than seventy years ago - her words, not mine.” “And I see we have notice to vacate the cottage, as well?” Nell was reading some of the other papers. Hilda nodded, “Yes, that was part of the deal when we first bought cottage, after all, should there ever become a time…” she paused and took a deep breath, “the offer is a generous one - considering it’s a compulsory purchase, we’ll not lose out monetarily.” “As if I care about that,” Nell retorted impatiently, “I can’t believe she’d do that to you.” “No,” Hilda’s expression was set and she did not look across at her friend, just carried on staring out of the window, “but whether we believe it or not, Nell, we must face facts, it has happened. And I am no longer…” she stopped, seemingly unable to continue. Nell’s grip around Hilda’s shoulders tightened as she completed the sentence, “…you are no longer Headmistress of the Real Chalet School,” she said quietly. THE END Yes, you did read correctly, that is the end of this episode. Thought it was about time - especially as this is the second longest at 123,323 words. There will be another - of course - but as I've been writing this one for nearly a year I felt I deserved a break. Thanks to all of you that are still interested. Espcially to all those who take the trouble to comment - the comments are the things that keep me going!
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| Author: | Identity Hunt [ Sun Jan 11, 2009 8:28 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Noooo ! Madge can't get away with that This is definitely an evil cliffie, Lesley...... but enjoy the much-needed and well-earned break 
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| Author: | ibarhis [ Sun Jan 11, 2009 8:48 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Oh goodness... Well, that is a cliff and a half. |
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| Author: | abbeybufo [ Sun Jan 11, 2009 9:05 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Lesleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeey!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You can't do that to us Well of course, you can - you just have! But please take pity on us and start the next bit as soon as poss - I can't believe you don't know where this is going! |
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| Author: | PaulineS [ Sun Jan 11, 2009 9:28 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Thank you Lesley. I hope you are not leaving us on the cliff edges for long. Andrew, Hilda and Nell are all in difficult positions, and we want to know what is going on, so please have a short break and then return to slove the issues. |
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| Author: | blue1 [ Sun Jan 11, 2009 9:51 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
| Wow what a giant cliff! I wonder how Hilda will cope without the school for however long she is without it. Thanks enjoy your break from this you definatley earned it. Just don't take too long because we're all going to need something to read while we recover from all those broken bones. Walking off cliffs is dangerous you know especially for those accident prone few like me.
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| Author: | Carolyn P [ Sun Jan 11, 2009 9:54 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Well that is what I did wonder about...but LESLEY ANNE GREEN...what a place to stop. The story isn't finished you can't just stop there. Stories have a beginning, a middle and an end according to my school English teacher and that wasn't an ending it was a middle! An ending resolves things, possibly. Yes, I know you are sat laughing at us all and expecting us all to shout and complain and I know I am merely a puppet doing what you want ...but even so......You are just evil!
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| Author: | kirstyb01 [ Sun Jan 11, 2009 9:58 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Oh no!!!!! I find these and then they stop. Please carry on with the next RCS. I'm sure you could do with a break - at least a week!
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| Author: | Cat C [ Sun Jan 11, 2009 10:08 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Phew! What a turnip! I guess the break will give me a chance to read all the back-story now (not complaining). What an intriguing place to leave us all.... dangling in mid-air 
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| Author: | keren [ Sun Jan 11, 2009 10:20 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
I saw the word complete in the title and did not believe it. What will I do without new episodes of RCS to look forward to? I am sure it is draining to write this, so of course you deserve a break......as long it is not too long  Will the pupils and staff agree to the firing of Hilda? What will happen next??? Please let us know when you are ready. |
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| Author: | Pat [ Sun Jan 11, 2009 10:35 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
You evil creature, you!! Making everyone dance to your string-pulling, I mean!  As soon as I saw 'COMPLETED' I knew you had to have left it hanging like that. Take as good long rest - waiting will hopefully do everyon'e patience a bit of good - or at least having to practice it will!
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| Author: | MHE [ Sun Jan 11, 2009 10:48 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
What a place to leave us all dangling  Can't see the rest of the staff nor the pupils being happy at this turn of events. Have a nice break Lesley - looking forward already to RCS12 - or should that be the HARCS!!!! (Hilda Annersley's RCS) |
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| Author: | MaryR [ Sun Jan 11, 2009 10:52 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Hah! I was half-expecting this, as it's not the first time you've done it, wretch that you are! I can see the tantalising smile from here!So now we have four unhappy ladies. Hmm! Looking forward to all the tying up and undoing and... in your own good time, of course.
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| Author: | Liane [ Sun Jan 11, 2009 10:53 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Pat! You're about as evil as Lesley! Thanks for this Lesley and enjoy your break from it. |
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| Author: | Pat [ Sun Jan 11, 2009 10:57 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Liane wrote: Pat! You're about as evil as Lesley! Thanks for the compliment, but I get nowhere near!!! |
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| Author: | Elbee [ Sun Jan 11, 2009 11:05 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Wow, what a lot of plots to look forward to being resolved (or not) when you start the next episode Thanks, Lesley, enjoy your break. |
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| Author: | Lyanne [ Mon Jan 12, 2009 12:20 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Oh Madge, the past's a foreign counrty, they do things different there. You are going to destroy the school. Thank you Lesley for another fantastic RCS story. Hope you'll start the next soon though, cause we're awfully worried about everyone here. |
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| Author: | Kathy_S [ Mon Jan 12, 2009 1:25 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear. Hope you rest up quickly, Lesley! |
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| Author: | Sugar [ Mon Jan 12, 2009 7:02 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Thanks Lesley. What a fantastic cliff to stop on. I'd much rather be left desperately wanting the next installment than have a nice neat little ending. Take a break and we'll all be here when you start RCS12. (RCS 12?? )Thanks for your brilliant story telling Lesley. We do appreciate it, even though we tease you no end! edited cos I can't spell! |
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| Author: | Cath V-P [ Mon Jan 12, 2009 8:27 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
First thing Lesley, enjoy your break, and thank you for the world of RCS. Now...that was a cliff and a half, although Madge's suspicious silence made me wonder. And when parents find out - and they will, because they always do (we found out the same evening that the principal and school Board of the offspring's NSW school had severed contact ia the wonders of the internet!) - there will be an uproar. And when the Staff find out, oh my... And Butcher - she was caught wasn't she, between two irreconcilable positions, and her loyalties have really hurt her. |
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| Author: | Jennie [ Mon Jan 12, 2009 3:14 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Have a good rest, Lesley. Thanks for RCS, even though you ended this episode on the cliffhanger of cliffhangers. |
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| Author: | Cumbrian Rachel [ Mon Jan 12, 2009 3:53 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Argh! What a place to leave it! Have a good break Lesley but I hope it's not too long *eagerly awaiting RCS12* |
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| Author: | Chelsea [ Mon Jan 12, 2009 4:41 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
When I saw that you had changed the thread title to "COMPLETE" I was wondering how you were going to tie up all the lose ends in only a few posts. I should have known better Thank you for a lovely read (even if you did end with a Mount Everest size cliff). Enjoy your break! |
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| Author: | Fiona Mc [ Mon Jan 12, 2009 8:44 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Lesley!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can't believe you've left us hanging for more like that Thanks for all the drabble, have really enjoyed it and can't wait for the next RCS enstallment. Have a good rest and don't leave us waiting for too long.BTW Does this mean you'll be working more on your next book??
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| Author: | vicki_theterror [ Mon Jan 12, 2009 9:19 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Thanks for this Lesley, it's been great reading. Only could you rest quickley as I'm not sure how long Ican keep going on the tampoline I fell on. Vicki |
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| Author: | beth15 [ Mon Jan 12, 2009 11:14 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
That was brilliant. I finally grabbed the bullet and have got through all of these and absolutely love them. |
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| Author: | Tan [ Tue Jan 13, 2009 8:02 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Enjoy your rest Lesley, but come back soon please! |
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| Author: | crystaltips [ Tue Jan 13, 2009 11:32 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
What.......complete?......but......but..............NOOOOOO Thank you Lesley & have a lovely (but not too long) break. *snuggles up to wait, the withdrawal sysmptoms will keep me company* |
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| Author: | abbeygirl [ Wed Jan 14, 2009 4:15 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
I guess you do deserve a break, she admitted grudgingly - do you think the rest of this week would suffice to recharge your creative batteries? Thank you for RCS Lesley - it remains breathtakingly exciting to read - and dashed good exercise climbing up those cliffs! |
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| Author: | Catherine_B [ Thu Jan 15, 2009 12:32 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 08/01. Page 4 |
Lesley, Am logging on for the first time in months (years?!) to say thanks for the riveting reading - despite the huge cliff at the end - and also for putting Nell and Hilda in the audience for a concert I think I sang in! Lesley wrote: I’ve managed to get a couple of tickets for Verdi’s Requiem - performed by the Bach Choir and the Melbourne Symphony.” I went on tour with the Bach Choir to Australia last spring and sang this concert three times in Melbourne... so think this must be the one they went to (give or take a year for artistic licence )Catherine |
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| Author: | Lesley [ Thu Jan 15, 2009 12:40 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Fabulous to see you again, Cathy - we've missed you. This RCS is set Jan-Apr 2008 so yes, it would have been when you were there - though in this universe you are actually teaching at RCS!
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| Author: | Tara [ Thu Jan 15, 2009 12:41 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: A Foreign Country (Part IV) Update 11/01. Page 5. COMPLETE! |
Right. So I come back from quite a long illness-induced break to find - the biggest cliff in existence Oh well, in the fullness of time ... No-one can dispute your right to a break, Lesley, but I hope it's quite a short one!So, I've just caught up with Butcher/Geri, and I hope Butcher is going to use this time in solitary to work out what on earth she wants! It seems to me that Geri is in an impossible position. She must, after all, be held ultimately responsible for the escape of a high-level inmate and the almost-escape of another; I'd have thought she'd be lucky to avoid some sort of disciplinary action??? She has made herself vulnerable because of her relationship with Butcher and, ok, Butcher saved her life, but it wouldn't have been in danger in the first place if B. hadn't been escaping ... Given that McCall had been moved there iirc for social/family reasons, Geri could be forgiven for feeling that any positive action towards any of the inmates is doomed. Yes, she's reacting rather unfairly out of her hurt, but what did Butcher expect? If she really wants to be useful to the inmates and to effect change through the committees etc, she has to decide whose side she's on, she can't be on both. As for Hilda ... words completely fail me. What are the staff going to do? What is going to happen to the school? How is Hilda going to bear the loss of the job she loves so much??? No, it's no good, Lesley, you may only have the very teeniest of breathers, there are too may tenterhooks and they're too sharp .Thanks, anyway, for so much creativity and thought-provoking drama. |
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