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The End of Summer - complete 17 July p10

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The CBB -> Ste Therese's House

#1: The End of Summer - complete 17 July p10 Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 1:28 pm
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Links to previous parts:

Part 1
Part 2

~pim~

“Don’t do that, don’t salute me. What happened to your face?” Cdr Keeler put his hand on John’s shoulder. “What’s going on, Jack?”

“I had an accident.” John took a step backwards.

“Are you all right?” Keeler removed his hand and glanced around. When John didn’t reply, he spoke again, lowering his voice.

“And what the hell is all this about you trying to kill yourself – why didn’t you tell me? I didn’t know until Walsh told me last week. Please tell me it’s not because…”

“No.”

Keeler sighed and shook his head. “Did you get my letter? You didn’t mention it when I saw you at the zoo, but we couldn’t really talk there… We can’t talk here. We should talk. I should apologise properly, and explain…” he said, in resigned tones.

“I don’t want you too – sir.” John emphasised the last word.

“God, don’t call me that!” Keeler laughed, but he was rattled, and John could tell. “I know it’s all a mess and I don’t blame you for being angry with me, but what else can I say? I didn’t start this.”

“Well, now I’m finishing it.” John fought to keep his temper in check and his voice low. “Please leave me alone, Lewis. Or…”

“Or what?” Keeler frowned. “What will you do, tell Walsh?” Keeler looked around the corridor again, and when he spoke his voice was several degrees softer. “Please, Jack, this isn’t good. Are you in a hotel? We need to go somewhere and talk properly, and sort everything out. No-one needs to know anything, we can sort all of this out ourselves."

Last edited by Mia on Mon Jul 17, 2006 3:59 pm; edited 31 times in total

#2: Author: Eilidh, Location: Macclesfield

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 1:34 pm
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*wibbling violently*

#3: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 1:50 pm
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Don't go with him John - just walk away!

Thanks, Mia

#4: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 1:50 pm
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Talking might be good...but can't help joining in with Eilidh's wibbling

Thanks Mia

#5: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 2:00 pm
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Interesting that he's calling him Jack. Don't go with him, John! Still hoping that John and Daniel will end up together!

#6: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 2:01 pm
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Don't think I like Keeler - and definitely don't trust him - take care John.

Thanks Mia.

#7: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 3:13 pm
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“Maurice – can I draw you?”

“What’s that, Daph?” Maurice was sat at the kitchen table, cleaning his shoes.

“Can I draw you – please. I need a portfolio of drawings to send to art college.” Daphne mouthed the final five words of her sentence.

“I’m going out, kid. Why don’t you go and draw Dad?”

“It’s only a lightning sketch. That’s what they’re called, it’ll only take two seconds,” Daphne was already drawing. “Just don’t move. Don’t move!”

Maurice grimaced, earning another shriek from Daphne. He was already running late. Still, he was fond of his little sister and waiting patiently for her to finish.

“Who else have you drawn?”

“You – Mummy, when she was asleep in the garden, and Loveday. Oh and the house. And some of the cows. I need lots of subjects – and they want to see some painting too. Oil painting, I mean. Will you take me to Bideford next time you go – please? There’s an art shop there. I wish we didn’t live so far away from anywhere.”

“What are you drawing, Daphne? Oh, that’s very good – Maurice!” Mollie shrieked, seeing the shoes on the kitchen table. “Get those shoes off the table right this minute – you know what it means!”

“Sorry, Mum,” Maurice moved them, grinning while his mother fussed. “I forgot about your little superstitions.”

“You don’t see your brother leaving his shoes all over the table,” Mollie scolded.

“John? He’s worse than you, that’s why!” Maurice teased. “I am sorry, Mum. Come on, Daph, you can draw me walking up the lane to the bus stop, seeing how you wrecked the car.”

#8: Author: Eilidh, Location: Macclesfield

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 3:18 pm
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That was a lovely family scene, Mia. But John...?

#9: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 3:22 pm
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Thank you Mia!

#10: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 3:47 pm
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Thanks, Mia. I am wibbling as well about John.

#11: Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 4:01 pm
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And what does putting shoes on the kitchen table mean? Apart from being rather unhygienic!

#12: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 4:37 pm
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Lovely family scene, hope Daphne's work is good enough.

Thanks Mia.

#13: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 4:41 pm
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Thanks, Mia - but what about John??

#14: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 7:25 pm
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Ruth B wrote:

And what does putting shoes on the kitchen table mean? Apart from being rather unhygienic!

It's thought to be unlucky - like opening an umbrella indoors.

Very nice, Mia, but don't think we've forgotten John ...

#15: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 7:29 pm
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LizB wrote:

Ruth B wrote:

And what does putting shoes on the kitchen table mean? Apart from being rather unhygienic!

It's thought to be unlucky - like opening an umbrella indoors.

It's a reference to hanging.

#16: Author: Ally, Location: John Bettany's Cabin!

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 7:34 pm
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I luff the Bettany's *squee's happily* but yes John... *bribes Mia with chocolate*

#17: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 7:46 pm
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Ruth B wrote:

And what does putting shoes on the kitchen table mean? Apart from being rather unhygienic!

It's rather bad luck...

I think it's an old Irish (Mollie!) superstition, it's certainly a Liverpool one (new) shoes on the table is supposed to mean a death in the family.

*mwahaha's quietly to herself and feels a bit eebil*

#18: Author: LesleyAnn, Location: Perth, Scotland

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 7:52 pm
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I'm so enjoying this story, and the really well drawn relationship between Maurice and Daphne. Can't help feeling so worried about poor John, though Sad

. Feel he's getting a bit out of his depth with this Keeler chap!

#19: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 9:44 pm
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No-one's allowed to put new shoes on the table in our family - it's always considered bad luck!

Mum's family are from Liverpool so maybe it is a Scouse thing Rolling Eyes

#20: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 10:00 pm
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My mum says the same - she's from Bournemouth so no idea where it came from!

#21: Author: tiffinata, Location: melbourne, australia

Posted: Wed Jun 28, 2006 10:42 pm
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Fatima wrote:

LizB wrote:

Ruth B wrote:

And what does putting shoes on the kitchen table mean? Apart from being rather unhygienic!

It's thought to be unlucky - like opening an umbrella indoors.

It's a reference to hanging.

In our family it meant an argument

#22: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Jun 29, 2006 11:00 am
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And if a pair of shoes squeaks, it's supposed to mean you haven't paid for them.

#23: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jun 29, 2006 12:58 pm
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It's apparently an Irish superstition. Anyway, moving away from the shoes..!

“I can’t. I’m sorry,” John tried to get past, but Keeler put out a hand to stop him. “You’re deployed with my ship, you know. You’ll be under my command. We’re going to have to talk sometime. Did you slash your wrists because of me?”

“It’s not always about you.”

“What, then? Who?”

John shook his head. “I can’t do this right now.”

Cdr Keeler smiled, his face was very close to John’s.

“You know, I didn’t tell you, did I? I’ve got your young cousin on the Camaraderie now. Maynard, isn’t it? Matthew – no, Michael. Michael Maynard. He told me about you when I met them all last week. He seems very keen… I'll look out for him.” Keeler broke off as he looked over at the doorway. John followed his gaze and saw Daniel, watching them.

#24: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Thu Jun 29, 2006 1:03 pm
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Now I'm worried about Mike, too. I really don't like the sound of Keeler at all. Thanks Mia.

#25: Author: Eilidh, Location: Macclesfield

Posted: Thu Jun 29, 2006 1:08 pm
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*agreeing with Fatima*

He sounds really nasty - hope John gets some help from Daniel.

#26: Author: Caty, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Thu Jun 29, 2006 1:24 pm
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What a nasty piece of work. I hope he gets his comeuppance before he gets hold of Mike.

#27: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Thu Jun 29, 2006 2:03 pm
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Don't like the sound of Keeler. If he is John's ex, don't know what John ever saw in him!

#28: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Thu Jun 29, 2006 3:07 pm
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Definitely a nasty piece of work - wonder if Daniel suspects?

Thanks Mia.

#29: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jun 29, 2006 3:47 pm
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Oh dear...he sounds horrible. I hope Mike's going to be okay...

#30: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Thu Jun 29, 2006 4:14 pm
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*searches out the rusty nail scissors in preparation*

Nasty Keeler

Poor John - now he (and we) will be wibbling about Mike!

#31: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Thu Jun 29, 2006 4:29 pm
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Thanks, Mia. I am now wibbling about both John and Michael!

#32: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Fri Jun 30, 2006 12:37 am
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Oh, that's nasty...
Thanks Mia.

#33: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Jun 30, 2006 12:50 pm
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OOh, that sounded remarkably like balckmail to me.

Deploy poking sticks!

#34: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Sat Jul 01, 2006 12:48 am
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*obeys Jennie's command gladly*

Thanks Mia - definitely wibbling about Mike now.

#35: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Sat Jul 01, 2006 11:37 am
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Keeler sounds horrible, please don't let him hurt John! Confused

#36: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jul 01, 2006 11:20 pm
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“Our taxi is here,” was all he said, however.

Lewis Keeler stepped back to let John leave. Daniel held the door open. “Sorry to interrupt,” he said, coolly. John couldn’t read his expression and didn’t know what to say.

*

“I live in Belgravia,” Daniel said, as the taxi driver turned a corner and they got their last glimpse of the Thames in Greenwich. “Is that convenient for you? I could ask him to drop you somewhere else if -”

“It’s fine.” John glanced out of the back window.

“Friend of yours?”

“Was. I… It’s complicated. How long were you listening?”

“I’m not really in the habit of eavesdropping on people, but I saw him push you up against the wall. Is there something wrong?”

“No, we were just talking. It’s fine.”

“You don’t look fine. You’re shaking.”

“I’m all right. You don’t need to worry about me.” John ran his hand through his hair. “It was just a joke.”

“It sounded like blackmail to me.”

“I thought you said you weren’t eavesdropping?”

“I wasn’t. I’m just not deaf - or blind.”

John turned away to stare out of the window. “I really don’t want to talk about it,” he said, in his Lieutenant-Commander’s voice and Daniel said no more.

#37: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jul 01, 2006 11:58 pm
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Thank you Mia, I do wish Jack would just talk to Daniel. Would make everything so much easier!

#38: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 12:52 am
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Silly man - does he want to return to the same situation?

Thanks Mel.

#39: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 5:56 am
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And we want to know the full situation! Thanks Mia.

#40: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 9:54 am
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Talk to Daniel, John. Or to Rix. Or to Primula.

But talk to someone - pleeeeeeease!

And if he doesn't, Mia can you just let us know anyway Wink

#41: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 1:08 pm
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Thanks, Mia. I really hope that John will help to Daniel.

#42: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 1:42 pm
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Mia, we need to know if Rix will come through this all right.

#43: Author: MaryR, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 5:00 pm
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John has kept this to himself so long, one wonders if he will implode!

Thanks, Mia

#44: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 8:06 pm
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“Is John still with you?” Rix had telephoned Daniel at home, barely minutes since they had arrived at Eaton Square, John still coldly polite and unfriendly. Daniel had been brooding over things, until this phone call.

“He’s changing – you just phoned in time, I’ll get him for you.”

“How did he get on?”

“I’ll let him tell you himself. John – it’s your brother.”

John took the telephone and spoke, without waiting for Daniel to leave the room. He had showered and changed out of his uniform, his hair was still damp. He had been hovering in the hallway, wondering how to apologise, when Daniel had come out to answer the ringing phone in his study.

“Hi – no, it was fine.” His eyes met Daniel’s, who looked away first, then left the room.

John looked around while Rix spoke. It was a nice room, the late afternoon sunlight filled it and Daniel’s bookshelves were crammed with books and papers. His desk was untidy, covered with more papers and correspondence, including a file with John’s own name and rank written on it in Lawton’s handwriting. John resisted the temptation to leaf through it, it would be too humiliating to be caught doing so.

#45: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 8:08 pm
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Ooh...I wonder what's in that file...

Thanks Mia!

#46: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 8:54 pm
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Thanks, Mia. I am also wondering what is in that file.

#47: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Sun Jul 02, 2006 10:32 pm
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Go on John, have a quick peek!

#48: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 4:20 am
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I am so consumed with curiosity over John, Mia, and you are very naughty making us wait so long and getting close so many times! Thanks for the update - is it too soon to ask for more? Very Happy

#49: Author: Eilidh, Location: Macclesfield

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 8:57 am
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It's never too soon to ask for more! Please, Mia?

#50: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 11:32 am
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“Would you like a drink?” Daniel asked, uncapping the whisky decanter on the drawing room sideboard, as he returned in search of his things.

“No thanks. I’ll get out of your hair. I’ll see you at the Quadrant, I expect.”

“Sure. Take care of yourself.” Daniel nodded.

John found a tiny pub down a small, cobbled street of mews houses. It was half-empty, so he sat at the bar and ordered the first in a long line of drinks.

*

“I’m closing,” the barman was brusque.

“Well, then,” John said, unsteadily, squinting at his watch. He had been thinking, now he turned to the barman. “If I could see that file, you see, I’d know what they know.”

“All right, mate, on your way.” The barman gestured towards the door, impatiently.

He was horribly ill outside, which helped to sober him up a little. It was quiet in the little cobbled streets, but not so quiet he couldn’t hear the traffic on the main road. He wandered a bit, until he hit a dead end and had to turn back and retrace his steps, cursing himself.

Eventually he stumbled upon Belgrave Square. It took several confused moments of staring at the street sign for him to remember that Maeve had a house here. Maybe – but no, he couldn’t remember the number. Still he could find his way back to Eaton Square from here and make Lyndhurst let him see his navy records. They shouldn’t be with one of Rix’s friends, then should be with him, John thought, confusedly. Besides, it would be a good excuse to call. Daniel was his friend, he had said so, hadn’t he? The night was young, he could have a drink with him and they could talk about ordinary things for a change.

He stared up at the row of handsome houses, identified Daniel’s windows, and rang his doorbell. It pealed loudly, just as the church clock struck twelve.

This is the end of this bit

#51: Author: Eilidh, Location: Macclesfield

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 11:35 am
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Mia wrote:

This is the end of this bit

In that case, can we have the next bit? Laughing

Thank you for the update.

#52: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 11:46 am
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And we still don't know what happened!

Thanks, Mia.

#53: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 11:52 am
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Eilidh wrote:

Mia wrote:

This is the end of this bit

In that case, can we have the next bit? Laughing

Thank you for the update.

You're welcome... I'm a bit thrown now because this has been split before I anticipated (I had a new title ready) so sorry, this will be very choppy and crappy as I do some emergency editing, gah

Last edited by Mia on Mon Jul 03, 2006 12:51 pm; edited 1 time in total

#54: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 12:38 pm
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Thansk Mia. Finally caught up again!

John, please speak to someone!

#55: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 12:53 pm
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Thanks, Mia.

#56: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 12:55 pm
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Thanks, Mia. I hope that someone will rescue John.

#57: Author: Caty, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 1:35 pm
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Poor John. I hope he finds a friend soon. Thanks Mia - looking forward to next installment.

#58: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 2:40 pm
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Thank you Mia, I wonder how Daniel will receive him...

#59: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 3:10 pm
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Hope someone will answer the door and let him in!

Thanks, Mia

#60: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 5:33 pm
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Please don't leave it too long til you give us the next installment to read!

#61: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Mon Jul 03, 2006 5:49 pm
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Urg! Poor John - hope someone's there to help him.

Thanks Mia.

#62: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 11:48 am
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Daniel had been awake, now he was stood in his drawing room, in front of the fireplace. His cousin, Fred Brentford, Maeve’s husband, was sat on a chair, highly amused to see his brother-in-law’s drunkenness.

“I’m fine.” John said, sprawling on the chesterfield.

“You’re plastered. You won’t get a hotel in that state. I’ll ask someone to make up one of the guest bedrooms. How much have you had to drink, anyway?”

“Lots and lots and lots…”

“I’ll say!” Freddie laughed. John tried to focus on him, but found it better to close his eyes.
He could hear the two other men talking, but it was too hard to understand what they were saying.

He felt someone draping a blanket over him; and then he was asleep.

#63: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 11:51 am
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Mia, please please put us out of our misery and tell us about John and Keeler!

*Offers lots of bunny treats.*

#64: Author: Eilidh, Location: Macclesfield

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 11:51 am
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Yes, what Alison said!

#65: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 12:16 pm
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Yes please tell us more about John and Keeler!

#66: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 12:46 pm
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Thanks, Mia. I would also love to find out about John and Keeler.

#67: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 2:36 pm
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*wonders if it's too early for a chant*

Thanks Mia

#68: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 4:54 pm
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He opened his eyes later, exiting a confused collection of dreams; it took him some moments to realise where he was.

“Is it morning?” he asked, rubbing his eyes.

“No – I didn’t mean to wake you. Sorry.” Daniel said. “I needed something from this room. Go back to sleep, it’s late - or early, I suppose.”

“I should be the one apologising.” John sat up, rubbing his forehead.

“Here,” Daniel handed him water and two small white tablets. “It’s aspirin.”

“I really am awfully sorry… I don’t know what I was doing.”

Daniel limped over to the window and adjusted the thick brocade curtain to keep the pale sunlight out, before picking up a different bottle of pills from the mantelpiece and swallowing one. “It doesn’t matter,” he said, sounding weary. “Go back to sleep – or if you want one of the guest rooms, it might be more comfortable.”

“I’ve slept in worse places.” John hesitated. “Are you all right?”

“I will be.”

“Did I – was it all that walking we did in Greenwich?”

“Of course not. It just hurts sometimes, that’s all. I’ll see you in the morning – well, later in the morning.”

#69: Author: Ally, Location: John Bettany's Cabin!

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 5:20 pm
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Aww poor Dan, I hope he is ok! *worries*

Thanks Mia, they will talk soon, yes?

#70: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 6:59 pm
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Thanks, Mia. I hope that Dan is ok.

#71: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 7:14 pm
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I feel like knocking their heads together!

Thanks Mia

#72: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 9:14 pm
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Nice that Daniel is looking after John - and that Maeve's husband Fred is good natured about it.

Thanks Mel.

#73: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Tue Jul 04, 2006 11:46 pm
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They keep approaching the subject and backing away don't they?

Thanks Mia

#74: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jul 05, 2006 12:09 pm
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August 1954

”It’s Bettany, isn’t it? Have you see this?”

“No, what is it?” John looked up from the charts he had been studying for the last twenty minutes, with interest.

“Ssh! Look, Jefferies is asleep. Can you believe it?”

John grinned, then remembered that Lewis Keeler was very nearly a sub-Lieutenant. He was a year or two older than John himself and everyone knew him. Jefferies was their Captain, on the HMS Albion, currently deployed in the Mediterranean. She was anchored in Valetta for three nights. Keeler saw his hesitation and grinned back.

“If I were Captain, I wouldn’t be sleeping on the job,” he whispered, dismissively.

“It is hot,” John said in an undertone, glancing across the room. Jefferies was indeed asleep, with his mouth open. John smiled.

Keeler laughed and changed the subject. “I didn't tell you my name, I'm Lewis Keeler. What are you doing?” he asked, perching on the edge of the desk and looking down at the charts.

“I’m supposed to be on navigation training with Lieutenant Hargreaves.”

“You don’t sound very enthusiastic.” Keeler observed.

“He was called away. I didn’t know if I should stay, or…”

“You might as well. If the captain’s snoring away, I doubt anyone could mind. Which mess are you in?”

“Astley’s.”

“That’s where I’m going next month.” Keeler got down from the table and sauntered over to the window. They had a view down onto the deck and it was busy, as usual. “Have you got shore leave?”

“Tomorrow.” John was wondering if Keeler would be as decent as Astley, he seemed relaxed but you never knew.

“Hey, me too. We could go together.” Keeler suggested.

Last edited by Mia on Wed Jul 05, 2006 2:59 pm; edited 1 time in total

#75: Author: Caty, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Wed Jul 05, 2006 12:18 pm
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I don't suppose John trusted his instincts? Dying to find out what happened between John & Keeler.

Last edited by Caty on Wed Jul 05, 2006 12:25 pm; edited 1 time in total

#76: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jul 05, 2006 12:19 pm
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Thank you for starting, at least, to fill in the background Mia Very Happy

#77: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Wed Jul 05, 2006 12:22 pm
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Thanks Mia - looking forward to more Very Happy

#78: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Wed Jul 05, 2006 12:24 pm
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Some background at last! Thanks, Mia.

#79: Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK

Posted: Wed Jul 05, 2006 12:36 pm
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Ah! Maybe now we'll get some answers!

#80: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jul 05, 2006 1:49 pm
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”When are you going to be promoted?” John asked, after a few drinks in one of the bars near the docks. He had enjoyed himself, Keeler was amusing company and they had found they had a lot of things in common.

“Next month, apparently. It’s going to be so weird! Especially ordering people around.”

“I couldn’t do it.”
“Of course you could!” Keeler said, encouragingly. “You’d be jolly decent at it. Do you think they’d sell postcards hereabouts?”

“I’d think so. It’s awfully pretty, isn’t it? The sort of place people would take pictures of, I mean.”

“My mother and sisters like me to send them things like that.” Keeler explained. “I’ve got four sisters. I take turns sending them otherwise I’d be bankrupt. What about you?”

“Two brothers and three sisters. Peggy and Rix are twins, then there’s my sister, Bride, then me, and then Maeve and Maurice. They’re twins too. And I’ve got lots of cousins.”

“I’m the eldest. Pa was on the Galatea.” Keeler sobered.

“I’m sorry.” John said, at once.

Keeler shrugged. “It’s OK. I was only a kid, I don’t remember him all that well. I’ve been here before, by the way. To Malta, I mean. We’ve probably got time to jump on a bus and go to one of the nicer beaches, if you want?”

*

It was nice, John thought, as they climbed back aboard the Albion, to feel that he had made a good friend.

#81: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jul 05, 2006 2:20 pm
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Not entirely sure that Keeler will turn out to be the kind of friend that he wants...all very ominous. Thanks Mia

#82: Author: Eilidh, Location: Macclesfield

Posted: Wed Jul 05, 2006 2:38 pm
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I don't like him...

Thanks Mia, nice to finally get some background.

#83: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Wed Jul 05, 2006 3:23 pm
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Thanks, Mia. Thanks for satisfying my curiosity about John and Keeler.

#84: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Wed Jul 05, 2006 3:28 pm
—
But do we only dislike him because of what we already know? I actually liked him in that post, although I am worried about what he will do to John.

#85: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Wed Jul 05, 2006 4:38 pm
—
*Wibbles*
Mia you have created a feeling of impending doom in me!

#86: Author: Caty, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Thu Jul 06, 2006 12:23 am
—
Thanks Mia,
But wondering what about Daphne? Shouldn't John have 4 sisters too? Or have I got the timelines all mixed up?

#87: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Thu Jul 06, 2006 12:29 am
—
Thank you Mia, this is very interesting. It all seems ok, but.....

#88: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jul 06, 2006 11:48 am
—

Caty wrote:

But wondering what about Daphne? Shouldn't John have 4 sisters too?

Mollie is busy, I think.. Smile

Thanks for the comments, here's some more.

They did become firm friends and it was good to have someone with two more years’ experience at sea to give him advice. John had been very homesick during the first few months and although his messmates were friendly and pleasant fellows on the whole, he had missed his friends from Dartmouth and wished that they could have been deployed together. Having someone to talk to in the evenings or go off to explore the ports they visited made everything better.

“Do you remember me from Dartmouth?” Lewis asked one evening as they sat in the mess, playing cards.

“Of course,” John said. “You took the tennis cup one year.”

“I don’t remember you. Who were you friends with?”

“Howell and Duggan, oh and Sanderson.” John said, throwing his last card down and scooping all their matchsticks together. “Another game?”

“No,” Lewis stretched out on his hammock, which swayed alarmingly. “The tennis cup, my one achievement.”

“No,” John said, hurriedly. “I remember you from lots of things. You were in our House.”

“What happened to Howell and Duggan and Sanderson?”

“They’re all on the Bulwark.” John said shortly. It had hurt at the time, knowing he was going to be outside of their little group.

“They split me up from Hennessey. Remember him?” Lewis lit his cigarette with one of the discarded matches. “Still, he’s been a sub for a year now, wouldn’t it be awful to have your best friend bossing you around?”

“I will have soon, won’t I?” John laughed. “Just another two weeks.”

“It won’t change anything. I’ll feel all kinds of idiot when you start saluting me. Here,” Lewis threw his cigarettes over.

“Lewis?”

“Yes?”

“It will change things a bit, won’t it? I mean, while we’re both Midshipmen, we can talk all the time, but… I just think it will be different.”

“’Course not.” Lewis said, decisively, and he was right.

#89: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Thu Jul 06, 2006 11:53 am
—
Unfortunately it does tend to change things when one of you gets promoted, and I suppose that must apply far more so in the Armed Forces. Still v curious about Keeler!

#90: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Thu Jul 06, 2006 11:55 am
—
Yes, I'm curious too. He sounds nice here, so what's going to go wrong?

Thanks, Mia.

#91: Author: Caty, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Thu Jul 06, 2006 12:28 pm
—
Thanks Mia. Wondering when/why Keeler turns from Mr. Nice to Mr. Nasty?

#92: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Thu Jul 06, 2006 3:28 pm
—
Thanks, Mia. I am also wondering when things will change.

#93: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jul 06, 2006 3:50 pm
—
“Daniel?”

“Yes?”

They were breakfasting in the very elegant dining room, although John had only had coffee and politely declined the scrambled eggs that Daniel’s cook had offered.

“Sorry to gatecrash last night.”

“It really is fine, stop apologising.”

“I saw you’ve got my file from the Admiralty…”

“Oh, yes?”

“I wondered if you’d let me look at it.”

“Is this what you wanted last night?”

“Yes. It is about me and I didn’t know they sent it to you.”

“You wanted Toby and I to take you on as a patient, and you agreed that we would need access to your medical records.”

“But it was my whole file…”

“We’ve only looked at your medical records, I assure you.”

“So, you’re not going to let me look at it?”

Daniel sighed. “I shouldn’t do, no. I don’t quite know what the Naval procedure is, but the notes were entrusted into my care and I was told they were confidential. However, I don’t suppose it would hurt. It’s in my study – I’ve already parcelled it up to post back.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, but I don’t know why you want to look at it.” Daniel said, shaking his head.

*

John returned quickly with the file and carefully undid the string and smoothed the paper out so it could be re-used. Then the file was opened and various documents spilled across the long, mahogany dining table.

“Have you read any of this?” John asked, picking up a fragile old envelope. “Good grief, it goes back to 1948. That’s my report from the Cathedral School…”

“Oh, yes, I did read that. I couldn’t resist – John has tried his best but unfortunately geometry remains a sealed book to him.” Daniel grinned.

“It certainly isn’t now, we often apply it to navigation. I should write to Dr Kendrick and tell him he’s an idiot.”

“What are you looking for?” Daniel asked, curious.

“Oh, I don’t know. I just want to see myself as they see me, I suppose.”

“It seems mad to…” Daniel stopped, stricken.

“I am mad, though, aren’t I? That’s why you’ve got my service file.”

“I’m sorry.”

“No, that supposed to be a joke. Not a very good one, though.” John smiled.

“I’ll leave you to it.”

“I’ve finished. Here, I’ll wrap it up and then finally go – you’ll be glad to see the back of me, I expect.”

"Not at all, in fact I was going to ask if you would like to stay for lunch." Daniel replied.

#94: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Thu Jul 06, 2006 3:58 pm
—
Glad the 2 of them are getting on well, but still wondering what's gone on in the past.

#95: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Thu Jul 06, 2006 4:31 pm
—
Most strange! I'm glad John seems cheerful though.

#96: Author: MaryR, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Thu Jul 06, 2006 4:50 pm
—
John seems placid enough after seing his files, but are appearances deceptive?

Thanks, Mia.

#97: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jul 06, 2006 4:53 pm
—
Hmmm, call me suspicious but have a feeling that all is still not well!

Thanks Mia. Very Happy

#98: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jul 06, 2006 6:42 pm
—
Thanks Mia, I'm glad you starting to fill us in!

#99: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Thu Jul 06, 2006 7:17 pm
—
Thanks, Mia. I am giggling about the thought of sending that letter to Dr Kendrick!

#100: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Thu Jul 06, 2006 8:15 pm
—
Curious - is John looking to see what's there or making sure something isn't?

Thanks Mia.

#101: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Fri Jul 07, 2006 12:15 am
—
Seeing himself as others see him - how potentially scary.

Thanks Mia.

#102: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Fri Jul 07, 2006 12:34 pm
—
*wibbling about what he might find*

Please come and tell us more, Mia

#103: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 10:34 pm
—
I've been reminded I have an unresolved flashback

”Are you still thinking of Winchester for Jackie?” Uncle Jem asked. “I see that this Leiden chap has suggested he join the scholarship classes.”

“I’m not sure. Of course I’d like both of them – and Maurice too, of course – to go to my old school, but after seeing them together I wonder if he might do better somewhere else.”

“David’s off to Winchester in September.”

“Well, then.” Daddy said, which mystified Jackie. Why couldn’t he go if David and Rix were both there? At least he would know somebody… But they did boss him around a lot and laugh at him. Maybe Daddy had noticed? He waited, unhappily.

“It might be worth having a chat with Jack and seeing what he wants to do in the future.” Uncle Jem suggested.

I don’t know, thought Jackie at the door, biting his lip. He hadn’t thought about a job, it seemed such ages away. Would he have to choose right now? He didn’t want to be a doctor. He wouldn’t mind writing books like Auntie Jo though.

“Mollie thought about the Forces.” Daddy was saying.

Uncle Jem laughed. “Good gracious, I can’t quite see Jackie doing that, can you? He’s so young for his age. But I don’t know. It might be a good thing, toughen him up a bit. I presume you’re thinking of Dartmouth then?”

“Mollie’s brother, Michael is in the Navy.” Daddy remarked. “But of course, it’s for Jack to decide.”

Jackie quickly took six steps backwards, then came forward, making sure he made some noise. He knocked on the study door.

“Daddy, Rix wanted to know if we should pack everything,” he asked, not looking at Uncle Jem, who thought he couldn’t be a sailor because he wasn’t old enough for his age.

“Yes, I think so. I’ll come up with you and give you a hand – and we’ll tell Master Rix to run his own messages.” Daddy winked and ruffled his hair.

#104: Author: Caty, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 10:51 pm
—
Interesting. I hadn't thought about the Navy being a strange choice for little Jackie before. Dick's lovely here though.

#105: Author: Ally, Location: John Bettany's Cabin!

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 10:53 pm
—
Dick is luffly! Good to see the the rest of that flashback, thank you Mia Very Happy

#106: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 11:28 pm
—
He really does come across as a caring Dad, doesn't he?

Thanks Mel.

#107: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jul 09, 2006 11:39 pm
—
Thank you Mia, I do like Dick here Very Happy

#108: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 7:40 am
—
Dick was so nice there!

#109: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 10:39 am
—
Thanks, Mia Very Happy

I'm sure there are a few other unresolved things you could tell us about, aren't there... Wink

#110: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 12:15 pm
—
Dick does seem really nice. Very Happy

#111: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 1:07 pm
—
Thanks, Mia.

#112: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 3:32 pm
—
“Daddy! Daddy?”

“Mmm?” Rix put his correspondence to one side and caught his eldest son around his waist in a hug. “What’s so urgent?” he smiled.

“Alex said that we were going to see Granny an’ Grandpa!”

“Yes, we are. Just for a week, I need to see your Uncle John. Where are Alex and Tom?”

“Al’s in the treehouse and Tom went off to the bottom of the garden. Will you come and play with us?”

Rix looked at his desk full of paperwork and then at James’s eager, upturned face. “Of course I will,” he said. “Come on, I’ll teach you how to play cricket.”

*

“Do I have to go to the Quadrant, Daddy?” Tom asked, as Rix was showing him how to hold the cricket bat properly.

“Don’t you want to?”

“I don’t know. I-I – Cousin David said there were ghosts.”

“Are you still worrying over that? Listen, Tom, there’s no ghosts at the Quadrant and if there were, Grandpa would get rid of them, wouldn’t he?”

“They live in the tunnels underneath.” Tom’s lower lip trembled.

“I’ll ask Uncle John to take you and the others down and show you that there aren’t. He’d look after you all right, wouldn’t he?” Rix said, hastily.

“Oh yes,” Tom said at once, relieved.

“Good enough. Right – stay there like that and I’ll bowl to you, see how far you can hit the ball.”

*

“I can’t go to the Quadrant, Rix, I wish you’d told me earlier. Tomorrow’s a bit short notice! I’ve got a lot of work to do for my thesis and I was planning to have lunch with Liam on Wednesday.” Mary-Lou frowned.

“Who’s Liam?”

“You know, Dr Cameron. He’s been an enormous help looking over my work for me and he knows so many useful people. I’m sorry…”

“It’s fine. I could take the boys myself and give you some peace and quiet."

“That seems a good idea. Tell Mollie I’ll write, will you? I keep meaning to but I’m just so busy – oh must you move those papers?”

“Sorry – I was looking for that letter that came for John this morning. I might as well take it with me rather than put it in the post.”

“It’s on the mantelpiece,” Mary-Lou said, tersely, returning to her work.

Last edited by Mia on Mon Jul 10, 2006 4:31 pm; edited 1 time in total

#113: Author: Nell, Location: London, England

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 3:37 pm
—
Mary-Lou is seeming a little distracted and is there anything in this mention of Liam...?

Thanks Mia.

#114: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 3:53 pm
—
Thank you Mia, Rix is so lovely with the children but am a little worried about Mary-Lou and their relationship now...

#115: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 8:40 pm
—
Thanks, Mia. I'm sorry that Mary-Lou can't go with them.

#116: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 9:23 pm
—
Hmmm, that seemed a little ominous - hope all is well between Rix and Mary Lou.

Thanks Mia.

#117: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 12:07 pm
—
Also wibbling about Rix and Mary-Lou.
The boys are so sweet though!

#118: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 12:14 pm
—
“And that’s why you decided to join the Navy?” Daniel asked, once John had finished recounting this tale.

“Yes, it doesn’t really sound like anything, does it? But I was determined to show them I could do well at it – and I have done, you know. I’m good at what I do.”

“I know.”

“My parents can’t ever know I did this.”

“Who would tell them? It’s only your brother and I who know.”

“David knows.”

“He has to respect your confidentiality.”

“It wasn’t just what Uncle Jem said, I did want to travel and see the world.” John moved the conversation back.

“Are you close to your uncle?”

“Not really, if I’m being honest. When I write, I write to my Aunt Madge. But we don’t dislike each other, as far as I know. We just have very little in common.”

“What would he say if he knew about the incident?”

“He’d probably demand to know why I did it, and I can’t answer that because I don’t know. I just felt compelled to do it, everything was so bleak… I’m sorry, I just don’t want to talk about it.”

“It’s OK, we won’t. You said you’re good at what you do. Do you enjoy what you do?”

“Well – yes. I don’t enjoy going to war, obviously, but – most of it.”

“What would you have done if you hadn’t decided to join the Navy?” Daniel was genuinely interested, and John didn’t shy away as he once would have done, but answered him.

“I wouldn’t have been a doctor, so I expect I would have worked on the farm,” he shrugged. “I don’t know.”

“You said you wanted to write?”

“No, that was when I was a kid. I wrote so much rubbish then. Ask Rix, he’ll tell you.”

“I don’t talk about you to him, you know. Anything you do tell me won’t go any further.”

“I know, thank you.” John smiled, thinking how much he would miss talking to Daniel once they arrived in Devonshire. They wouldn’t be able to talk like this on the few occasions that Daniel came to dinner at the Quadrant. “I’ll go and fetch some teas from the buffet car.”

#119: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 12:30 pm
—
Glad Daniel is getting through to John, but still very curious about the details of what happened!

Thanks Mia Very Happy

#120: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 12:32 pm
—
Me too.

Please enlighten us soon, Mia.

#121: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 12:39 pm
—
One thing resolved, another left on the cliff-edge. Thanks, Mia.

#122: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 2:23 pm
—
I do love the friendship that Daniel and John have developed now.

Thanks Mia

#123: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 3:08 pm
—

KathrynW wrote:

I do love the friendship that Daniel and John have developed now.

Me too! Now, what about M_L & Liam....hmmm.

Thanks Mia.

#124: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 3:15 pm
—
Thanks, Mia. I'm glad that Daniel and John are getting on.

#125: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 5:51 pm
—
At least he's talking.

Thanks Mia.

#126: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 3:46 am
—
Thank you Mia, this is fascinating.

#127: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 12:46 pm
—
“Hello. Maurice told me you were coming in on the three-fifteen, so I thought I’d come over and save you the walk.” Rix was waiting on the platform. “Oh, hello Dan. Want a lift?”

“No, thank you, I’m going into Bideford. I’ll hopefully see you before you go away, John. Look after yourself.”

“See you,” John said, as he followed his brother to the car park. He had wanted to thank Daniel again, but not with Rix there watching.

“Everything all right?” Rix started the car.

“Oh, fine. I told you I had another four weeks, didn’t I? I’m going to relax and enjoy it.”

“Good plan, where’s that boat of yours moored up? We could go out in it, maybe. The kids would enjoy it – so would I.”

“She’s berthed in Channing St Mary. I could go and sail her round, that’s an idea. Look, drop me off at the village and I’ll ask. How long are you here?”

“A week – maybe a fortnight. I’ve got a locum in.”

“Is Mary-Lou with you?” John asked.

“No, she’s finishing up her thesis, you know. I’ll come with you to ask about the boat, there’s no hurry to get back, is there?”

“No, I suppose not.” John fastened his seatbelt.

#128: Author: Caty, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 1:12 pm
—
I'm feeling happier about John & wibbling about Rix & ML now.....

#129: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 1:20 pm
—
John seems OK, but what is OOAO up to?

#130: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 1:24 pm
—
Thanks, Mia. The boat sounds like a good idea.

#131: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 2:26 pm
—
I do think we need to know a bit more about Mary-Lou and what she's doing...I'm very suspicious!

Thanks Mia

#132: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 3:05 pm
—
“Darling? What are you doing?”

“I’m sketching, Mummy,” Daphne answered, looking up from her drawing. “Did you want me to do chores?”

“You’ve got a letter – could it be your exam results?”

“Oh!” Daphne threw her pencil away and dashed down the stairs. Results had become important now that the Art college had specified five O levels as a minimum entrance requirement and she had spent most of the evenings since lamenting her lack of work to Maurice.

#133: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 3:17 pm
—
I really hope she's done well enough.

Thanks Mia.

#134: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 3:21 pm
—
I hope Daphne's got good enough grades!

#135: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 3:42 pm
—
“Oh, Daph – not one? Not even English?”

“No.” Daphne had been crying.

“Well – it’s not the end of the world, sweetheart. You can re-take them.”

“Maurice, you don’t understand…”

“I do. I know what it’s like to want something badly and be disappointed. Come here,” Maurice hugged her. “You could retake them – there’s a college in Bideford, or you could go to the High School.”

“What’s wrong?” John and Rix stepped through the kitchen door and stared at the scene of desolation. Mollie explained briefly.

“We’ll sort something out, mavourneen. Let me talk to Daddy when he gets back from seeing Trevarn,” she added.

“I-I’m not going back to Glendower House to r-re-take.” Daphne sobbed.

“No, you don’t have to, pet.” Mollie said, quickly. “Don’t fret, it’s not the end of the world. The college in Bideford sounds like a good idea, doesn’t it? Then you could stay at home and go in every day on the bus.”

“My life’s over,” Daphne sobbed.

“Don’t say that, Daph.” John said, picking up the letter from the table and smoothing it out. “You can retake in November. Look, Miss Edwards says you only just missed out in some of them.”

“Too much time spent drawing and looking at fashion magazines, I expect.” Rix said, sternly, entirely ignorant of the art school plan. Mollie shushed him, irritably.

“We’ll talk to Daddy when he gets back, darling,” she said again, as Daphne dried her eyes. “There’ll be a solution, don’t you worry.”

#136: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 3:46 pm
—
Oh no Sad

Poor Daphne, must be horrible for her.

#137: Author: Eilidh, Location: Macclesfield

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 3:47 pm
—
(((Daph)))

Hope she gets things sorted out.

#138: Author: Ally, Location: John Bettany's Cabin!

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 3:57 pm
—
Ooh poor Daphne *hugs her* I hope they can cope up with a suitable plan for her. I'm glad they are being sympathetic though, well apart from Rix! *g* Johnboat swoon swoon swoonity swoon

#139: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 4:04 pm
—
I never imagined that! Sad

Poor Daphne.

#140: Author: Rosy-Jess, Location: Gloucestershire-London-Aberystwyth

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 4:14 pm
—
Poor Daphne. *hopes something will work out for her*

#141: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 4:14 pm
—
Oooh helpful bunnies today!

“That was a bit harsh.” Maurice said, as he, Rix and John left the kitchen. “It’s not her fault she didn’t pass them.”

“Oh, come on, of course it is! She didn’t do any work for them, and that’s why she failed.” His eldest brother pointed out, with irritation.

“Don’t let’s argue,” John said, hurriedly. “Maurice, if I fit the trailer to the back of Rix’s car, we can bring my boat back from Channing St Mary. Want to come with us and help?”

“Can’t you sail it round the cove?”

“No, I need to do some work on it. I can fix it in the yard here, it should only take a day or two, then we can get some sailing in before I go away.”

“You take the car, but I’d better stay here and keep an eye on the boys.” Rix produced his car keys. “They’ve probably burnt the barn down, or something by now.”

“I thought they were with Mary-Lou,” John said.

“No, they and I come a very poor second to her doctorate these days.” Rix said, tetchily.

#142: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 4:21 pm
—
Poor Rix. I hope it's only the doctorate they are coming second to, though.

#143: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 4:32 pm
—
Thanks, Mia. I'm sorry for Mia. I'm also sorry that Rix and the boys are coming 2nd to everything else for Mary-Lou at the moment.

#144: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 4:49 pm
—
Poor Daphne Crying or Very sad

If ML wants her and Rix to adopt a daughter then she should really spend some more time with her family.

#145: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 5:37 pm
—
Poor Rix, I hope there aren't problems brewing for him and M-L Sad

Thanks for all the updates today Mia Very Happy

#146: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 6:01 pm
—
Well Rix could have been a little more tactful there - I'm sure Daphne is well aware of why she failed her exams. However it's probably because of problems with Mary Lou so I'll forgive him.

Thanks Mia.

#147: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 8:27 pm
—
Poor Daphne - Rix wasn't very tactful there.

#148: Author: Caty, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Wed Jul 12, 2006 11:04 pm
—
Poor Daphne. It's nice to see a bit of Maurice too. He never featured much in the book except as Maeve's twin.

#149: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 10:02 am
—
Mmm yes, poor Maurice, I'm having problems fighting off the bunnies for a Maurice drabble after this one. Wink

#150: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 11:39 am
—
John spent every spare minute of the next two days working on his yacht. He would wake early and help Maurice on the farm in the mornings and in return Maurice would assist him on the evenings he was free. His nephews were fascinated and hung around, more hindrance than help, but John didn’t mind and patiently answered their eager questions. Rix and David occasionally lent a hand, but both seemed preoccupied and would disappear to talk about the San.

“How are you going to get her down to the beach?” Maurice asked, as John straightened up and stretched, having finished the final part of necessary carpentry.

“I’ll take her by road to Candlebury Cove, and sail her round. You should come for the first sail, I wouldn’t have gotten her finished so quickly without your help.”

“It was nothing. If I’ve got time, I will. Right, I’d better leave you to it. I’m supposed to be going out tonight and I need to shower first.”

“Is this with…?” John didn’t know the name.

“Susan. Yes. She won’t be happy if I turn up covered in engine oil.”

“Has she met Mother and Dad?” John asked, interested, removing his own filthy t-shirt and wiping his hands on it.

“A few times, yes. Oh, look, here comes trouble,” Maurice said, as the triplets came running over, followed by a morose-looking Daphne.

#151: Author: Eilidh, Location: Macclesfield

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 11:40 am
—
Thanks Mia!

*feeds the Maurice-bunnies*

#152: Author: Caty, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 11:52 am
—
*sending chocolate for Mia & carrots for Maurice bunnies & John bunnies* or t'other way around if the bunnies prefer chocolate! Farmer Maurice is interesting because it's different from Doctor or military which seems to be the other males only choices.

#153: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 12:13 pm
—
Thanks, Mia, this just gets better.

#154: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 1:10 pm
—
Thank you Mia, I love all these scenes of family life

#155: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 3:41 pm
—
Echo's calls for a Maurice drabble!
Thanks Mia! Very Happy

#156: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 3:44 pm
—
“I brought you some of Cook’s lemonade,” she said, with a brave attempt at a smile, handing it over.

“Thanks, Daph. Feeling better now?”

“Not really,” she gave an enormous sigh. “I don’t want to go back to Carnbach.”

“What did the art college say?” Maurice asked, lifting Thomas aboard the yacht with the others to go and play in the cabin.

“They’ll consider me for next year, but I need to scrape those bloody O levels. If I re-sit them in November though, I’ll have nearly a year free and I don’t know what I’ll do. I know it’s selfish, but I don’t want to stay here.”

“No,” John said, knowing exactly what she meant. Maurice, who had stayed at the Quadrant and didn't know, opened his mouth to say something, but before he could reply, Rix had joined them, with Daniel Lyndhurst.

“Where are my three?” he asked, as everyone greeted each other. “I want Dan to look at Tom.”

“In the cabin.” Maurice said going off to summon his youngest nephew and return, laughing, with the protesting small boy in his arms.

“Uncle Daniel wants to see you,” Rix said, gently. “You can come back to the boat later, and well, I’d imagine you’ll go out in it tomorrow with Uncle John – if you’re good.”

“If the weather holds,” John added.

“You should join us, Dan…” Rix said, his attention on Daphne, who had deliberately turned her back on him, still unforgiving after his comments the day before.

“Uncle Dan, Uncle Dan, look at Uncle John, he’s got drawings on his arm.” Tom pointed, putting his other hand into Daniel’s.

“Drawings? Oh, yes.” John, who was so used to his tattoos as just another aspect of naval life, had to think for a moment what Tom meant. “Tattoos, not drawings. Sailors have them.”

“Alex drew one on me, look,” Tom proudly rolled up his sleeve. “I can be a sailor now too.”

Last edited by Mia on Thu Jul 13, 2006 3:52 pm; edited 2 times in total

#157: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 3:51 pm
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Thanks, Mia. I would love to read a drabble about Maurice. Tom was really sweet in the last update.

#158: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 3:57 pm
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Would also like to know more about Maurice - *sends bunny treats*!

#159: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 4:36 pm
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Thank you Mia, the children are so lovely!

#160: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 4:51 pm
—
Daniel laughed, but tried not to smile when Rix scolded. The other children were called, examined and found similarly adorned. They protested loudly when their father ordered baths.

“It’s mapping ink, I keep it in the cabin.” John said. “You’d better check they’ve not scratched themselves, although I don’t think it’s toxic. Jamie, what on earth is that one supposed to be?”

“A skull and crossbones,” James answered, not noticeably subdued.

“You’ll have to wash it off, I’m not having pirates on my cutter!” John grinned, meeting Daniel’s eye.

“You’re not having them on the boat at all – do you hear me, you three? No sailing now, you don’t deserve it and certainly no more messing about in Uncle John’s cabin.”

“Really no sailing?” Alex asked, disconsolate.

“We’ll see if you can manage to behave yourselves for the rest of the day,” Rix softened slightly. “What’s that, Al? No, you can’t show Granny before you wash it off, she wouldn’t like them,” he grinned, “They’d make her cry, wouldn’t they, Jack?”

“Oh, shut up.” John laughed. “I’d forgotten that.”

“Your brats can wait till I’ve had a shower,” Maurice said, heading back to the house. “I’m meeting Sue at eight and it’s nearly half-seven now.”

“What made Mummy cry?” Daphne asked, curiously.

“Oh – it wasn’t long after you were born. I went into Tangiers, or somewhere – Tunis maybe, I can’t remember - with – with a friend of mine, and we each got the name of our first ships tattooed on. It was something everyone did, probably still do... I came home not long afterwards, to see you, and Mother got a bit upset – it was mainly about all of us growing up,” John reminisced.

“Was that your pal, Lewis? You and he came to London, didn’t you, when David and I had that basement flat. Are you still in touch with him?” Rix asked, using his handkerchief to scrub some of the ink from Alex’s arm.

“Not really.” John said, “I run into him occasionally,” he added, pulling his t-shirt back over his head.

Last edited by Mia on Thu Jul 13, 2006 9:18 pm; edited 1 time in total

#161: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 4:54 pm
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And we still don't know why they are at odds with one another....

Thanks, Mia. It's nice to see the men together like that.

#162: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 5:06 pm
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Where abouts on his body did John get his tatoo?
Really want to know why him and Lewis aren't friends any more.

#163: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 5:19 pm
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Yes, I noticed that John didn't say where the tattoo was!

Thanks Mia.

#164: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 5:52 pm
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Thank you Mia but I still think you need to tell us more...

#165: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 6:20 pm
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Thanks, Mia. I am also still waiting to find out why John and Lewis fell out.

#166: Author: Ally, Location: John Bettany's Cabin!

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 7:03 pm
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Aww the triplets are so coot! Im guessing the tattoo is on John's arm somewhere maybe?

Thanks Mia Very Happy

no more messing about in Uncle John’s cabin - thats just mean on your poor twinnie!

#167: Author: MaryR, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 8:36 pm
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Lovely updates, thank you, Mia. Like everyone else I'm wondering about Lewis and John.

#168: Author: Caty, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 1:33 am
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Forget Maurice in particular - I just want to see more of all your characters! Even Lewis. I presume John's tatoo is somewhere he can show his Mother, if she was upset by it?

#169: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 11:00 am
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Sorry - that was my crap punctuation re the tattoo. Yes, it's on his arm or shoulder or something and he has a few of them, being a sailor and cos we love norty tattoos

He returned to his work, as Daniel, Rix and the children left, thinking so intently that he forgot about Daphne’s presence until she spoke, startling him.

“Sorry – I was miles away,” he said, looking up at her. She had picked up Maurice’s paintbrush and was continuing with his work.

“I said, I’ve a horrible feeling that Mummy and Daddy won’t let me go to Bideford,” she said, impatiently.

“But where else could you go? Apart from back to Carnbach, and Mum said that you didn’t need to.”

“It’s just something Daddy said at breakfast – about finding the perfect solution. I just know that their perfect solution won’t be what I want.”

#170: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 11:08 am
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Dick and Mollie seem quite reasonable so I hope they'll listen to what Daphne wants.

What about John and Keeler?!

#171: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 1:04 pm
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Thanks, Mia. The mystery deepens with every post.

#172: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 2:17 pm
—
”Lewis? Are you awake?” John whispered.

“I am now,” Lewis said, yawning. It was still dark in the cabin, but John had a torch.

“Sorry – Happy birthday, I’ve got you something.” John kept his voice low as some of the other sailors in their cabin were still snoring in their bunks.

Keeler sat up. “You didn’t need to do that,” he said, warmly, moving over so that John could perch on the edge of his bunk. “Thank you.”

“It’s nothing special, it’s all from the NAAFI. I haven’t had any shore leave for ages.”

“I’ll sort something out so we can take some together.” Keeler tipped the contents of the envelope onto his bed, sweets and cigarettes. “Thanks, Jack. Here, have a smoke?”

“I can’t, I’ve got to report to the Watch at 0600. I just wanted to give you that before I go. Sorry it’s not much.”

“Go on, it’s only quarter to. Your hands are freezing, have you been out already?”

“Just to see if I could see the coast. What’s Morocco like?”

“It’s interesting, we came here last year. I promise I’ll sort out that leave and show you round. The souks are always good. I wonder if we could swing an overnight? I’ll look into it.”

John nodded, he was always thrilled to see new places and Lewis was always a fascinating guide.

#173: Author: Caty, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 2:24 pm
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Thanks Mia. John seems to have a big case of hero worship. Wonders what Keeler did to remove the rose tinted glasses.

#174: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 2:28 pm
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Yes, I'm still on the edge of my seat...

#175: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 3:06 pm
—
“What’s so amusing?” Rix asked his sons, as they giggled all the way through lunch.

“Nothing, Daddy,” Alex said, making his brothers laugh even more.

“Well then you can all sit up and eat properly, otherwise you won’t be sailing this afternoon. D’you hear me?”

“It was Uncle Maurice,” Alex began. “We saw him, Daddy, last night.”

“He was in the car and the lady was kissing him!” James added, excitedly.

“And then she said…” Tom was determined to make his contribution.

“That’s enough.” Rix said, sharply. “I’m tired of this continual rudeness at the table.”

Maurice was scarlet; his father gave him an amused glance.

“It sounds serious,” he said, with a grin.

“It is not.” Maurice said.

“Are we ever going to meet her?” Mollie asked, with great interest.

“Maybe,” Maurice muttered.

“You have met her, she brought those awful cakes round, remember?” Daphne pointed out. “Or is it a different one?”

“Don’t tease your brother, young lady.” Mollie smiled. “Besides, we’ve got some good news for you. You tell her, Dick, after all it was your idea.”

“What is it?” Daphne asked, trying to smile, but looking terrified, as the rest of the family looked up in interest.

#176: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 3:13 pm
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I hope they're going to be kind to Daphne.

Thanks, Mia.

#177: Author: Caty, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 3:15 pm
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Wonders if Daphne's being given a chance to go abroad...St. Mildred's perchance?

#178: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 3:17 pm
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Hope it's not one of those things that parents think are great ideas and children really don't want to hear!

Thanks Mia Very Happy

#179: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 3:37 pm
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Thank you Mia, I love Daphne Very Happy

#180: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 5:16 pm
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*Giggles at the triplets*
I love the family scenes!

#181: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 8:48 pm
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Thanks, Mia. I wonder what Dick and Mollie's news will be.

#182: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 8:49 pm
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Yes, Maurice didn't really think he could escape the triplets' eyes did he?

Hope it's good news for Daphne.

Thanks Mia.

#183: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Sat Jul 15, 2006 3:54 am
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Most amusing!
Thanks Mia.

#184: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Sat Jul 15, 2006 10:36 pm
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Well guessed Caty!

“I’ve spoken to your Aunt Jo,” Dick said, with a smile. “And she’s spoken to Hilda Annersley and if you wanted to go to the Chalet School in the Oberland to retake your exams, then they would be very happy to have you. You could board, or live with Auntie Joey for a while, wouldn’t that be fun?”

Daphne nodded, slowly, her father looked so pleased at his idea and he had been so ill recently. She couldn’t bear to object right now, in front of her brothers, much as the idea of going to stay with Aunt Jo in Switzerland was terrifying. And Cecil, who wrote such boring letters!

“What do you think, darling?” her mother asked. “Isn’t it exciting! We’ve done the maths and can manage it for you. You’d be following in your sisters’ footsteps.”

Daphne managed a smile, “I – I don’t know what to say,” she said.

#185: Author: Lesley, Location: Allhallows, Kent

Posted: Sat Jul 15, 2006 10:41 pm
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Poor Daphne - but if she boarded she wouldn't have to live with Aunt Joey, would she?

Thanks Mia.

#186: Author: Cath V-P, Location: Newcastle NSW

Posted: Sun Jul 16, 2006 12:06 am
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Oh, poor Daphne.

#187: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sun Jul 16, 2006 6:04 am
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I wonder what she'll do - she won't want to upset Dick, but she doesn't really want to go, does she. Thanks, Mia.

#188: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Sun Jul 16, 2006 9:45 am
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Oh poor Daphne! I'm sure they mean really well, but why didn't they ask her what she wanted?

#189: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun Jul 16, 2006 10:01 am
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Thanks Mia, I can't wait to see Daphne at the Chalet School!

#190: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 11:39 am
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See the sneaky title change!

“It won’t be so bad – and you’ll see something of Switzerland. Auntie Jo’s good fun.” John said.

“How would you know, you haven’t seen her in years,” It was too great a tragedy for tears, Daphne covered her face.

“Maybe I’ll come over when you go,” John suggested. “And you’ll have Cecil, she’s your age, isn’t she?”

“She’s nearly a year younger – and I bet she’s passed her O levels.”

“It’s only until November. That’s less than two months. And at least you won’t have anything to distract you there. Then you can come back and stay in London with Maeve, or Con, perhaps.”

“I suppose so. I hadn’t thought of it only being for two months.”

“It’ll fly past.” John added, reassuringly. “Do you want to come over to Daniel’s place with me? I’m taking the yacht to test her at Candlebury Cove.”

“OK. Are you good friends with Daniel now?” Daphne roused out of her sulks.

“We’re friends, I think so, yes.”

“I thought he was Rix’s friend.”

“Well, yes, he is, but he’s helped me a bit recently – Navy stuff.” John looked reflective. “Rix asked him to, I know.”

“I like him lots then, if he was responsible for getting you extra leave. Do you think it’ll be awful at the Chalet School?”

“I’m sure not,” John said. “You’ll have Cecil and Phil at least.”

“You keep on saying that, but I hardly know them, they might be awful!”

“They’ll be fine – run and ask Rix if I can take the car? You could see if he wants to join us.”

“If I have to,” Daphne sighed, and stomped away.

#191: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 12:03 pm
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John's really nice. I hope Daphne will be happy in Switzerland. Thanks Mia.

#192: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 12:04 pm
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Er - yes, I did notice the title change Rolling Eyes

#193: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 12:12 pm
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Poor Daphne, it'll take her a lot of tact to be able to tell her parents what she actually wants.

#194: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 12:15 pm
—

Alison H wrote:

Er - yes, I did notice the title change Rolling Eyes

Erm... is this a problem? Confused

I've nearly finished this anyway.

#195: Author: Chair, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 12:50 pm
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Thanks, Mia. I wonder how Daphne will get on in Switzerland - I hope that things go well.

#196: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 12:54 pm
—

Mia wrote:

Er - yes, I did notice the title change Rolling Eyes

Erm... is this a problem? Confused

I've nearly finished this anyway.

Nope - just wondered why it'd changed! Does this mean it's nearly over Crying or Very sad

#197: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 12:56 pm
—

Alison H wrote:

Nope - just wondered why it'd changed! Does this mean it's nearly over Crying or Very sad

Lol - cos someone pointed out that it was practically into September in the drabble..

Yes, it's finished! Just need to type up what I've written! Smile

#198: Author: Caty, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 1:05 pm
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Sad

Finishing? Starts a Maurice chant.....

#199: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 3:59 pm
—
“John, I’m so sorry, I found this in my pocket – it’s a letter for you, it came to Carn Beg and I forgot all about it.” Rix said, handing the envelope over. “I hope it’s not urgent.”

“No – thanks.” John, having recognised Lewis Keeler’s handwriting put the letter into his pocket, hoping that Rix wouldn’t ask about it. He didn’t want to open it until he was alone. He wondered what had happened to Lewis’s old letters, were they still in his cabin? Some he had burnt, like the one at Carn Beg, but others he had kept, the ones from the beginning. He could get rid of them once he went back to Portsmouth - a new start.

THE END

(Thanks so much for all your comments & encouragement!)

#200: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Mon Jul 17, 2006 4:06 pm