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The CBB -> Ste Therese's House

#1: Under the thumb finished 7/8 Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Mon Jul 31, 2006 2:07 pm
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Geoffrey Maynard thanked the good lord it was his day off from work. He was a local government civil servant in the county department of education. He had his good days and his bad days and the days off. Maybe he could sit out in his garden! Rosie, his headstrong and dominant wife would be going to work soon. He loved her, but if he crossed a line or didn't do something properly, she could make him feel such a fool. Rosie stayed with Geoff, equally through choice and love, but often felt if she were not here to provide a firm hand to guide her husband, he would fall apart.

"Take the cats to the vet dear, pay on the first joint account, not the second! Shopping is allright, don't touch the salmon, I will do that tonight, if you're gardening today, please have a look at the bulbs and Tamsin needs a new pair of school shoes, take her shopping today!"

With his orders, Geoff set to work. Task number one, get Tamsin out of bed. Eleven and very curious, she was too fond of her own comforts! Fortunately, Geoff heard movement upsatirs. He went up to see his daughter give him that "just woken up" look from her long blond hair and silky pyjamas.

"Good girl! Right! New school shoes! Let's get into the shops early or it will be bedlam and no parking spaces! Then we have to take the cats to Mr Vinnetrow."

"Oh Daddy! All work, work, work! I want to go back to bed!"

"Would you like to explain that to your mother? Staying in bed all day!"

The response was immediate. Tamsin fled to her room to get up, but not before she said to her father, quite cheekily, "Mummy would tell you off too for letting me stay in bed!"

Geoff gave a smile. Underneath, he knew Tamsin was quite right. Rosie would have words to say! Sometimes he wondered why he loved the woman so much when she made him feel so impotent.

There was more fuss in the shoe shop.

"Daddy, I don't really need new school shoes! I would much rather have these!"

Tamsin's eyes glinted upon a pair of £195-00 designer shoes. Geoff had had enough.

"I've seen that your shoes are falling apart! Now you have a new pair and one that's practical and durable and not made of cardboard like the last pair!"

There was a flash of authority in his eyes and voice that told Tamsin that she had pushed her placid father too far. Worried now and looking scared, she was very cooperative. The sales assistant shot her a cold look and Geoff a sympathetic, charming look. She said to her colleague afterwards,

"That man is completely under his wife's thumb! As for that daughter, if it weren't against the law, I would like to see her Dad give her a smack!"

The next obstacle was the cats. Troilus and Cressida were a pair of silver tabbies who strongly objected to being shoved into a basket to visit Mr Vinnetrow the vet. Geoff inserted the felines into their transport with a practised hand, whilst Tamsin let Troilus escape at least three times. After enraged howls in the car journey there and back, the cats were released to vent their fury on a population of shrews and doormice.

By now Tamsin was wide awake, and as usual had lots of questions to ask Daddy.

"Daddy. Miss Williams was doing something called family history in the last week of term."

Tamsin did not note the guarded, worried tone of her father's voice.

"Yes?"

Tamsin was puzzled. Daddy usually took such interest in her work.

"Well, I know all about Mummy's family. Going to see Grandma and Grandfather, Uncle Bill, the other uncles, aunts and cousins. It occurred to me, I don't know much about the Maynards."

Geoffrey Maynard went as white as a sheet. It had to happen some day. it had to. His own daughter had a right to know about her father's family. Oh dear, this was going to cause one almighty row with Rosie.

Last edited by Phil on Mon Aug 07, 2006 7:44 pm; edited 5 times in total

#2: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Mon Jul 31, 2006 2:19 pm
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What an interesting marriage Geoff has! And how did Jo let him go enough that his daughter doesn't know about her? I can't wait to find out!

Thanks Phil.

#3: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Mon Jul 31, 2006 5:27 pm
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Oh, intrigue! Love it.

#4: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Tue Aug 01, 2006 12:47 pm
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Oh no, I've got a real soft spot for Geoff !! Has he married a woman who actually rowed with Joey? Shocked

This looks v amusing, thanks Phil!

#5: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu Aug 03, 2006 9:25 am
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Rosie had had the most exhausting day at her PR company. Why did no one work to the same standard as her? Why did no one work to the same speed as her? Still, at least she had her placid Geoffy to yarn about her day to. It was funny how he would listen! He would soak up her troubles like a sponge and come out with something funny!

Tamsin was at her friends' place three doors up the street, probably discussing cats or magazines or lipstick again! Rosie entered to find an agitated Geoff.

"Hello dear! What's the matter? Did you get Tammy's shoes and take Troilus and Cressida..."

Geoff nodded irritably.

"What's wrong Geoffrey?" Rosie was quite baffled.

"That teacher of hers, Miss Williams or whatever has got Tamsin's class talking about family history! Tammy wants to know about the Maynards!"

Rosie looked like she had seen a ghost.

"She...she...she can't! She musn't!"

"She wants to know!"

"But Geoff darling! I know you don't like me speaking ill of your parents, but your father really beat the life out of you and your brothers when you were younger! He was a violent, obstinate tyrant of a man! In my view he should have been struck off the medical register and given life imprisonment. Tamsin shouldn't know about her grandfather! He was a brute!"

Geoff was close to tears at the memory.

"Why didn't he show us he cared? The only time when we boys ever saw him was to dish out discipline! That is the only time. Even a good school report would only get a short compliment and 'try harder' for next time! He never bothered with us! He should never have had boys!"

Rosie shared an intimate moment with her husband. She remembered first meeting him at university. She was president of the socialist republic society and he blundered into a meeting thinking it was the toilet. She had persuaded him to come back and paid special attention to him. She was livid when she heard of his private school experiences and her fury increased as she heard of the great doctor's autocratic family rule. She took an automatic dislike to the Chalet School, being private education. Her opinion of the church and all religion was not for behind her opinion of private education. She was genuinely shocked to hear that as part of Margot's training and life as a nun, she would never ever see or hear from her family again. Though would never know if she were dead or alive! She would have no individual spirit. It was cruel.

Then there were Geoff's siblings. He was the youngest. His twin was so frail, she lived at home with her (late) domineering father and her mother. The remaining siblings seemed to think Geoff was a servant to be bossed around and told how to behave and what was expected of him! There were endless hints of marriage and grandchildren and more hints of becoming a doctor! Geoff hated the sight of blood!

Tragedy had struck the family with the death of Mike Maynard in the Falklands war and there had been a huge row between Rosie and Geoff's parents.

"Don't you care your son died in a pointless, illegal war? The British Empire stole those islands from the Argentines in the first place, we should give them back! Your son died for nothing! He was defending stolen property!"

"Don't speak about Mike in that way under my roof girl!" The late Dr Maynard had thundered.

The elderly Joey had intervened, "It was the people of the Falklands' choice to remain British, and anyway, who in their right mind would hand over their citizens to a brutal regime which has caused the disappearance and deaths of thousands?"

The argument had continued until Joey threw Rosie out shouting, "Never darken my door again!"

An embarrassed Geoff had followed her. Now in the present day, he wept quietly as Rosie brought him an Irish coffee. All her work troubles washed away in the face of this crisis. Geoff was placid, like a cushion, the way she liked him, but what upset her comforter upset her.

There had only been minimal contact with the Maynards. Christmas and birthday cards, Geoff flew out to the funeral of his father in 1984. Felix was the only Maynard relative to have turned up to Geoff's marriage and to Tamsin's christening. He had seen Tamsin again on a "flying visit" when she was five and she held dim and fuzzy memories of "Uncle Felix". At that moment the young lady herself returned home from Kaye and Angie. Troilus and Cressida wailed and purred curling themselves around her ankles.

For once Tamsin did not try to pick up both cats at the same time, she did not even notice them. Her nose was buried in a dusty old red hardback book.

She sat at the kitchen table, engrossed in her reading, whilst Troilus and Cressida wailed for their seventh supper of the night! She did not look up as her mother entered.

"Hi Mum! What's for tea?"

"Salmon! How are Kaye and Angie? Good book you're reading?"

"Yes. They're fine. Kaye's mum went ballistic over a skirt she had bought. Said it was too short! Mum, have you ever heard of a children's author called Josephine M Bettany?"

"Yes, why?"

"I borrowed this from Angie! It's a JMB as she calls it and for its age, it really is a cracking read!"

Rosie nearly fainted with shock!

#6: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Thu Aug 03, 2006 9:38 am
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It's not difficult to imagine people feeling the same as Rosie does about the Maynards. I love the idea of Tamsin with her nose in one of Joey's books! Thanks Phil.

#7: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu Aug 03, 2006 10:33 am
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"Tamsin. I do not approve of this author. Usually I am happy to let you read what you want. Reading broadens the mind, but I would rather you did not read this author in particular. I am not going to tell you why! Now give that book to me and I shall take it straight back to Angie's and tell her mother you are not to borrow any of Angie's books by this author!"

Before her astonished daughter could react, Rosie had seized the contraband and stormed round to Angie's mother. Her temper had coolled by then and she was her normal polite, if pushy self and outlined to Angie's mum that she did not approve of Josephine M Bettany and would Angela not loan any JMB books to Tamsin. Angie's astonished mother agreed, but later felt cross with herself for not questioning Mrs Maynard more closely! As Rosie left, Kaye was still there wearing the contentious skirt. Rosie took one look at her and said,

"Your mother is quite correct! That skirt is too short for an eleven year old girl! If you were mine, young lady, I would scalp you!"

Kaye was furious and meant to tell Tamsin so.

"That is so out of order!" she growled.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Dad! that is so out of order!"

"What?"

"Mum's just taken a book Angie loaned me! She's said I'm not to read it because she doesn't like the author!"

Rosie returned. "Really that girl's skirt was obscene!"

"Oh here she is Mrs Margaret Thatcher herself! The children's censor!"

"Don't ever mention that name in my presence young lady! I consider it highly insulting! As for censorship, I don't have to give you my reasons, but I disapprove of that author!"

"WHICH AUTHOR?" interjected Geoff, not knowing who this row was about.

"Josephine M Bettany!" shrieked Tamsin.

"M...M...Mother's books? You were reading Mama's books?" queried Geoff.

Tamsin gave her father a "weirdo" look. "What are you on about Dad?"

"Josephine M Bettany is your grandmother." said Rosie quietly.

"Granny Maynard? But why is she called Bettany?"

"That was her maiden name Tammy. She continued to use it for her books."

"Then why forbid them, Mum?"

"They are products of a bygone age! She was brought up by people born in the Edwardian era! They are repetitive, Imperialist, right wing tripe! Totally out of date for children of today, now this conversation is over. You have plenty of Jacqueline Wilson and Anne Fine books to read. I shall speak to this Miss Williams about awakening this foolish interest in family history. You don't need it. You've got my parents, my nephews and nieces, my brothers and sisters! You don't need any more! Thank goodness we rescued your father from his overbearing brute of a father and domineering mother!"

It seemed as if Rosie was getting a great deal off her chest.

Tamsin turned to her father.

"Dad, is Granny Maynard still alive?"

"She sent you a Christmas present and card, remember?"

"Yes. What about Uncles and Aunts and cousins?"

"Geoffrey, I forbid this! Go to your room girl! I shall deal with you later!"

"Four uncles, one of them died in the Falklands War, six aunts and cousins..."

"Tamsin! How dare you disobey me?!"

Recognising a dangerous, scolding growl in her mother's voice, Tamsin retreated, smarting with fury. That night, text messages flew back and forth from Kaye, Angie and Tamsin about the iniquities of Mrs Maynard. Angie told Tamsin aboutt he second hand bookshop where she had picked up her JMB. First thing in the morning, Tamsin took her pocket money, went to the shop and bought what she could. Night after night, she read her "samizdat" or forbidden literature and revelled in the exploits of Joey's heroes and heroines! If only she could meet Granny Maynard!

#8: Author: keren, Location: Israel

Posted: Thu Aug 03, 2006 10:38 am
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phil,
this is a cracking tale

#9: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Thu Aug 03, 2006 11:59 am
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keren wrote:

phil,
this is a cracking tale

I agree! I'm looking forward to Geoff's family meeting up with the Maynards!

Thanks Phil.

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

Posted: Thu Aug 03, 2006 12:00 pm
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Poor Geoff he seems to have left one dictatorship only to find himself in another...
Thanks Phil, this is really good.

#11: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu Aug 03, 2006 12:08 pm
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Tamsin avoided her parents the following day. She held Troilus and Cressida captive in her room protesting they were for comfort as she had such evil parents. She was curious about the uncle who had died thirteen years before she was born. She went round to Angie's to search the Internet and spent a pointless two hours trailing through rubbish until she got to a list of those killed in action. There was only one "Maynard".

"20th May 1982" HMS Archer sank off West Falkland.
20 Fatalaties, amongst them second in command Lt Cdr Michael Maynard."

There was even a picture of the deceased Commander. She briefly read how the destroyer HMS Vengeance commanded by Captain John Bettany had come to collect survivors. Could Capt. Bettany be a relative? SHe printed this information off, completely ignoring her best friend's opinions on boy bands and how they all sucked. Angie rolled her eyes! Tammy was on a mission!

A week later, she had biographical information on her dead uncle and on her famous grandmother, courtesy of the Internet. SHe arrived home to find Troilus and Cressida looking at her accusingly.

"What?"

She asked the cats. The crafty felines knew something she didn't. Behind her, on the kitchen table was her collection of hardback JMBs and a very angry mother!

"I thought I told you not to read any of this right wing..."

"Oh go back to North Korea mum! You're such a dictator! Stalin's got nothing on you!"

"Whilst you are under my roof girl, you will do as I order you!"

Tamsin walked out of her parents house, her mother bellowing at her to return. She walked up the hill, past the castle wall, past the Catholic Cathedral. On and on she walked until she sat on a stone bench outside an old house. She started to cry. Why was Mummy being so inflexible? What was she afraid of? Why didn't Daddy help? Didn't they realise how they made her feel? This was all too much for poor Tamsin Maynard. She didn't notice an aged nun with sparkling blue eyes come out of the nunnery.

Sister Magdelene felt the pain in the child's crying. Why the girl was all on her own! Where were her parents? Sister Magdelene felt the pain, she could remember her own days as a child when she was in such pain, feeling that nobody understood her! At 67 years of age, Sister Magdelene had seen all she could of the world as a medical missionary. She had had some hair raising adventures. Now with arthritis in her arms, she had agreed to retire and focus on pastoral care. She had decided to take up an appointment in a beautiful market town on the peaceful south coast. She had only arrived yesterday when she saw her first challenge! A distressed child.

"My dear is everything allright? May I help you?"

Tamsin leapt in shock.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to startle you." The Nun was sure there was something familiar about the child.

"I musn't talk to strangers!" she blurted. Why did this Nun look so familiar?

The Nun looked taken aback.

"I...I'm sorry, I didn't mean to be rude."

"That's quite allright dear. And I agree, you musn't talk to strangers. May I help you at all?"

"Mummy and Daddy. Well, I want to know more about my Dad's side of the family, but Mummy won't let me. She says my grandad was a child battering monster and a tyrant!"

"Oh I'm sure he wasn't as bad as that!"

"Well, it's what Mum says. And she won't let me read my granny's books! And they are so good! I've never read anything like them! They are so full of optimism and hope!"

"These are books your grandmother owned?"

"Oh no! Ones she wrote!"

"Really? My mother wrote books! Lots of them! Who is your granny?"

"Josephine M Bettany"

The Nun looked shocked.

#12: Author: Lottie, Location: Humphrey's Corner

Posted: Thu Aug 03, 2006 12:45 pm
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Presumably the nun is Margot. I'm looking forward to seeing her recation to Rosie's views on the family.

Thanks, Phil.

#13: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu Aug 03, 2006 2:56 pm
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I am on a roll with this one...

The nun had retired for prayers, but later discussed the unhappy girl with her good friend and colleague, Sister Anne. They reached the spot where Sister Magdelene had conversed with the child.

"So you see, I wonder if she may be related! Oww!"

"Poor Sister Magdelene! The arthritis is worse?"

"Just a sudden twinge! Hello, what's this?"

Tamsin had dropped some papers from her pocket. They were internet printouts. They contained pictures of the sinking of HMS Archer in the Falklands conflict and of the author Josephine M Bettany.

"This settles it! She is a relative!"

"But Sister, what can you do?"

"Oh I shall think of something!"

"But you must take care of your arthritis!"

"I shall pray for God's help!"

Tamsin was worried. Where oh where had she dropped those papers? She retraced her steps and it was dusk by the time she reached the nunnery. The papers were not there. Suddenly a car drew up beside her. It was her father.

"Get in at once Tamsin Maynard!"

Tamsin's face fell.

"Geoffrey! Geoff! Is it you? Wait! Wait! Wait!"

The voice of an old woman hurtled through the air. Geoff got out of the car and bid Tamsin get inside. He thought he could see someone running towards him. He had to get Tamsin home. So he got back in his car and drove away.

Breathless, Margot Maynard, now Sister Magdelene watched in bewilderment as the car disappeared. Her arthritis came back with a vengeance and she howled in pain, falling onto the soft earth beneath her. She was found ten minutes later by Sister Anne who called for a doctor.

Back in the car, the voice was bugging Geoff. Was it his imagination? Who was that person? Why did they want to speak to him? Was it a case of mistaken identity? As far as he knew, Con was in Oxford, Len, Phil and Cecily were in Switzerland teaching at the Chalet School, Charles was in Canada, Felix was in the States, Felicity was in New Zealand and Steve was in Japan. Poor Mike was interred in the Falklands. As for Margot, she could be anywhere in the world: Africa, Asia, South America, she may not even be alive.

Tamsin was silently crying.

"Why won't you tell me about your family Daddy? If Grandpa Maynard was nasty, was it just him or everyone? There must have been some good moments! How come someone who wrote such good books be so nasty? I want to see Granny Maynard! Please!"

"I am going out to see Granny Maynard the day after tomorrow. I've had a telephone call to say she is seriously ill!"

Geoff was in a swirl of emotion. Tears pricked his eyes.

"Then we all must see her! Please Daddy! I've never met her before and I want to tell her I love her and her books!"

Sadly Geoff knew what his domineering wife had said, "She's not going! Apart from the cost, what about her holiday work? Who will look after the house and the cats? She's never met her before, so it is pointless starting a relationship now! Really Geoff think about your daughter and I for once! You know I can't bear to be within a mile of a private school with all the snobbery and elitism that produces! As for the way she defended your brother sacrificing his life for nothing during the Falklands! You can go, she is your mother! But Tamsin stays!"

Back in the nunnery, Margot had been given the sad news, with leave to visit her beloved Mamma and recuperate in Switzerland.

"If that child is Geoff's I swear I shall take him and her with me to see Mamma!" Margot vowed in her pain.

In the Maynard household, the worm had fiunally turned, Geoff knew he would no longer take any more dominance from Rosie. He had known her on and off since they were twenty. They had been married for sixteen years, but he had felt as if he didn't know her anymore. He felt distant. Were they still really in love?

He calmly informed his wife that he was taking Tamsin to meet her grandmother as she wished or she would never forgive them. Rosie huffed and puffed but saw she had crossed a line. She handed the JMBs back to Tamsin, who would not speak to her mother until it was time to say goodbye at the airport.

As they took their seats, an old lady nearly fell onto them. Geoff helped her up.

"Oh excuse me! My arthritis! I'm not as fit as I once was, Geoff!"

Brother and sister were reunited!

#14: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Thu Aug 03, 2006 3:13 pm
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I'm so pleased you're on a roll with this, it's brilliant. I'm really glad that Geoff has stood up to Rosie and is taking Tamsin with him to see Jo. Thanks Phil.

#15: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Thu Aug 03, 2006 4:20 pm
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Thanks, Phil!

#16: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu Aug 03, 2006 7:13 pm
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There was a moment's silence whilst Margot and Geoff looked into each other's eyes. They could see the worry about Mamma in each other's faces, the longing for her and the chance to come back home! But how was Margot allowed leave?

"Margot! Your work! How did you get away? What have you been up to all these years? How are you?"

Margot seated herself beside Geoff.

"Vatican II" was all she said. Geoff and Tamsin were none the wiser.

"It took me seven years to complete my medical training. Finished in '64 that's when the Pope's Council or Vatican II allowed Nuns to have some communication with families, but only in very special circumstances. I couldn't make it in time for Dad's funeral. I was on a boat in the Sea of Japan."

Margot was very mournful on that last note. Geoff felt embarrassed that he had not kept up to date with his Catholic upbringing. His own sister was a Nun for goodness sake! Margot knew this. Her visit to the family after Jack's funeral had been emotional. She had heard all about Rosie leading Geoff out of the Maynard clan for good. But, despite her anger then, she was mindful of the story of the Prodigal Son. There was ample time for forgiveness and redemption.

"I made a little joke when I was at home after Dad's funeral, that he had gone up to Heaven so quickly only to see if Mike was behaving himself and not annoying God and the Angels!"

Geoff smiled. Margot turned her attention to her niece.

"I don't think we were introduced properly the last time and you left these behind. I'm your Auntie Margot by the way."

"I'm Tamsin, Tamsin Philippa Maynard" the girl blushed as she gratefully received her printouts about the loss of Mike's ship and the biography of Granny Maynard.

"You are interested in the family? How you come you don't know?" queried Margot. Geoff squirmed uncomfortably.

"Rosie, she doesn't like our family. So she doesn't want Tammy to know."

The truth will out! Margot and Tamsin shot Geoff looks of frustration and incomprehension.

"Just as well I am here! This boy needs straightening out! We worry so much about our girls being strong and not spineless jellyfish, but we've let Geoff down!" Margot thought to herself.

Geoff was so embarrassed and ashamed throughout the journey. How on Earth would he be received once he was home? Was Mamma really on her last legs? Did he really want to go back to Rosie? Why wasn't Margot tearing strips off him now?

Margot cautiously left Geoff alone. Her years experience had taught her how other people must feel at certain times. So, she talked about her childhood, her going to Canada, her work as a medical missionary, the Chalet School and Mamma's books!

Tamsin was soon telling Margot how she enjoyed Granny Maynard's books, how she found a whole series of dusty hardbacks in a second hand bookshop. She asked a great deal about her aunts and uncles, especially the one uncle she would never meet, her Uncle Mike.

As they got to Interlaken, Margot saw a familiar sight: there was a crocodile of schoolgirls in a familiar uniform.

"Gosh! They haven't changed since my day! I wonder who the teacher is?"

From Interlaken to Freuedesheim. A middle aged St Bernard bounded out of the house quickly pursued by a young woman.

"Johann! You naughty boy! Come back here at once! Johann!" The girl was followed by her mother.

"Alice! Bring him back at once!"

"I'm trying Mum!"

Alice was struggling with the rumbustious canine and the mother came to greet the arrivals.

"Sorry about that! He's so friendly....MARGOT! CON! CON! IT'S MARGOT! SHE'S BACK! OH MARGOT! MARGOT! MARGOT!"

Another woman bolted out of the house, quickly followed by some other men and women in their sixties and fifties. Tears flowed like waterfalls as Margot was hugged and kissed by one and all. Margot herself burst into tears!

"I've come to be with you! I've come for Mamma! How is she Len?"

"She will be better, now that you are here!"

There was a sob and a woman of Geoff's age embraced the sobbing Geoff. Tamsin became frightened at this emotional reunion. She had never seen her father cry! And here she was in a foreign land! Johann beat his flail like tail against her and the woman Alice ushered her inside.

Geoff wept openly amongst his siblings. How many times he said "Sorry" he did not know, but he was led into the house.

Tamsin was talking to her new cousin, 27 year old Alice Entwhistle.

"So Daddy brought me to see Granny Maynard, for the first time ever!"

Somebody stirred on the couch in the Speisesaal.

"Granny have we woken you up?" asked Alice.

Joey stared past her, looking at her new grandchild.

"Tamsin? You are Tamsin? You've come at last my dear?"

A tear dropped from Joey's 88 year old eyes! She held out her arms and Tamsin ran to them.

"I've wanted to see you for so long, darling! is your Daddy here?"

Tamsin nodded. "And Auntie Margot."

A new lease of life and hope appeared in Joey's eyes!

#17: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Thu Aug 03, 2006 7:18 pm
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Poor Joey! At least she's met Tamsin now.

#18: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Fri Aug 04, 2006 9:09 am
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Granny Maynard had burst into tears of joy to receive her prodigal son and long lost daughter. Everyone had gone to bed early such had been the emotional strain of the day. By the end of that day, Tamsin was writing a family tree to see who were her cousins.

Auntie Len & Uncle Reg: Alice (27) Katie (35) Francesca (37)
Auntie Con & Uncle Roger: Eddie (36)
Auntie Margot: none
Uncle Steve & Auntie Jane: Anna (30) Ron (30)
Uncle Charles: none
Uncle Mike: none
Uncle Felix & Aunt Susan: Richard (24) Alexander (20) Christine (19)
Aunt Felicity: Joanna (29)
Aunt Cecily: none
Auntie Phil: none

At the moment, cousin Francesca was romantically inclined towards some young man at something called the "San" where Grandpa Maynard used to work. Tamsin had been promised a visit to the Chalet School. She could hardly wait!

That following day, Geoff awoke. He was back in Freuedesheim! He had what was originally Mike's first bedroom. He picked himself up, washed and went out for a walk in the garden, where he met his twin.

"Phil, dearest I'm so sorry!"

"Well, everyone's forgiven you Geoff! But I just want to make it clear how "under the thumb" you were with that woman. I am your twin for goodness sake, but other than the Christmas or Birthday exchange of gifts and letters, you barely saw us!"

"Rosie doesn't like travel!" muttered Geoff miserably.

"Then it's her loss! It broadens the mind! She is so different from us! SHe really doesn't like the Chalet School! Why?"

"That's her socialist principles! Seems to think it's a wrongful, harmful institution teaching biased histories and useless subjects designed to repress women!"

Phillippa Maynard's jaw dropped and she raised her eyebrows.

"Young Joanna used an uncouth expression the other day, which seems ideal for that sort of prejudice! To quote Joanna, your Rosie was talking out of her..."

"Asking for trouble with Mamma, Rosie was!" agreed Geoff.

"Not just Mamma, the whole family and everyone who has ever been to the Chalet School!"

"Even her own family call her "Red Rosie". She comes from a middle class family of lawyers!"

"Almost as bad!"

"And she's quite happy to hold her highly paid executive job in the city, whilst I work for the Council!"

"Oh Geoff!"

"Oh no more scorn, please Philippa!" snapped Geoff.

The youngest Maynard twins eyed the party not far from them. It consisted of Joey, Margot and Tamsin. Len and Con were in assistance too.

"Mamma! You are sure you are allright to visit the school?"

"Perfectly Len. I must show Tammy her Chalet School heritage! ANd I have a surprise for you Margot!"

"Really, who?"

"She's 100 and still going strong. Got her telegram from the Queen! She will show it to you if you like!"

Margot was puzzled.

"But Auntie Madge passed away..."

"Not Auntie Madge you goop!" said Con.

"Mercy me, it can't be!"

A frail looking figure, with plenty of energy within her yet was walking towards the Freuedesheim gate.

"It's the Abbess!" squealed Margot with joy.

#19: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Fri Aug 04, 2006 9:19 am
—
It's nice that Hilda's still alive and kicking!

Thanks Phil.

#20: Author: Lottie, Location: Humphrey's Corner

Posted: Fri Aug 04, 2006 9:32 am
—
Thanks for Tamsin's family tree, Phil - that's really helpful. Imagine Hilda at a hundred years old - presumably she's now had several years of retirement. Poor Geoff - I wonder if he'll be able to either break free from Rosie or change things so that his life is more reasonable now. It's good that his family are still so supportive of him, and pleased to see Tamsin.

#21: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Fri Aug 04, 2006 10:24 am
—
Hilda Annersley's eyes gleamed as she saw her old pupils!

"Joey! You're feeling better!"

"Much better Hilda! I've had the loveliest surprise of all, Geoff has returned with his daughter, whom I have never met before and my own Margot is here!"

Joey proudly motioned the blushing Margot forward to greet her ex-Headmistress.

"Auntie Hilda! You are looking so well! It's lovely to see you! Tamsin come and meet Auntie Hilda otherwise known as the Abbess at school! Or..."

"Or Miss Annersley if you were in serious trouble!" said Hilda with mock severity. There was something in Miss Annersley's voice which made the good nun feel rather bashful and guilty. Surely her crimes were not going to be read out in public now?

It was not to be. Hilda and her former pupils took Tamsin on a guided tour.

"Here are the tennis vourts where I trounced that sour team from England in straight sets, when I was Games Prefect!"

"That is also where Jos Marvel pushed you into that pit and poured paint all over you Margot!"

"On my last day as Headmistress, I opened that door and a bag of flour descended on my head! I was furious!"

"Granny, the Chalet School started in the Tirol didn't it?"

"Oh yes! I was the first pupil! It was started by your Great Aunt Madge!"

"But the school had to move because of the war."

Tamsin was entranced. Her Aunts had been to school here and could remember their own sinful days as clearly as if it were yesterday. The place had atmosphere, games, hobbies clubs and they seemed to learn every language under the sun!

"Oh Granny! Could I? May I come to the Chalet School? Please!"

#22: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Fri Aug 04, 2006 10:33 am
—

Phil wrote:

"Oh Granny! Could I? May I come to the Chalet School? Please!"

I don't think Rosie is going to be too impressed with this particular idea! Thanks Phil.

#23: Author: RroseSelavy, Location: Oxford, UK

Posted: Fri Aug 04, 2006 12:30 pm
—

Fatima wrote:

Phil wrote:

"Oh Granny! Could I? May I come to the Chalet School? Please!"

I don't think Rosie is going to be too impressed with this particular idea! Thanks Phil.

But Hilda will be *very* impressed with the correct use of "may" Laughing

Thanks Phil.

#24: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Fri Aug 04, 2006 3:33 pm
—
Rosie's not going to be happy, but its lovely to see Tamsin getting on with the Maynards.

#25: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Fri Aug 04, 2006 5:51 pm
—
Joey could feel her heart burst with joy as she heard this last question from Tamsin. Sadly she was also a realist. She knew that Rosie would be set against it, putting her principles before her daughter's education. Even if Rosie divorced Geoff, which as a CofE person could do, she would in all probability gain custody of Tamsin and send her to whatever school she wished! Oh the world could be cruel at times! Even if all Tamsin's friends went to the Chalet School, Rosie would still not send her there.

Tamsin saw the look of worry on her Granny's face.

"Oh Granny, I'm sorry! I know Mummy would never send me to this lovely place!"

It was Margot who provided some comfort.

"You could teach here! Even if you gained a scholarship and your mother refused it, it would be your decision to teach here, but you would have to go through all sorts of interviews and tests!"

Joey kissed her daughter affectionately.

"That's my girl! Always look for a happy solution!"

"It hasn't always been plain sailing at the Chalet School!"

Hilda Annersley added her piece.

"I retired in 1971, a little longer than most women in employment. After six years under Miss Wilmot, the Chalet School continued to flourish, but she married a doctor and left, so did her deputy, Kathie Ferrars, so we appointed an outsider."

"Oh yes! Miss Helen Ades! Or Hades as I called her!" said Joey with a sour expression.

"Yes! She abolished our trilingual policy and numbers plummetted. She had the nerve to blame your Grandmother who always welcomes the new girls! She said it was interference by someone who should have left the school a long time ago!"

"She did her best to minimise competitive sports, academic prizes and music competitions, saying they hurt the feelings of less able children and even tried to cut maths from the syllabus, saying it was not required for girls! Concerts were cut through alleged lack of funds and she tried to serve our family with court injunctions and fines of trespassing for using the gate we came through! She tried to have a brick wall put between Freuedesheim and the school! Why Madge would have turned in her grave!

"Even the close links with the San were foolishly cut. She said she preferred to use proper modern day emergency services. Then poor little Laura Dale was nearly killed trying to rescue those naughty middles who were trapped in that brook! The San was the only place that could help and Miss Ades delayed the decision to call them, purely out of spite for the Maynards. The girls were allright in the end, but Laura always had a delicate constitution after that! She was to be our next Games Prefect too!"

"What happened to Hades?" asked Tamsin. The Abbess grinned.

"Well, Laura's parents sued her personally, not the school. She has never taught again. I last heard that she was stacking shelves in a Tesco's in Loughborough."

"She was worse than Miss Bubb! At least she was only a temporary appointment and preferred to concentrate on academic excellence!"

Joey's opinion of Miss Bubb had certainly mellowed with age!

Tamsin was treated to a lovely Swiss meal in the school dining hall. The great grandniece of the original Karen, also called Karen had laid a fantastic spread for her visitors. tamsin thanked her profusely and grinned as she thought of her mother's horrified expression of "Too many points!" at all the Swiss cakes! Her eyes alighted on a painting of a fair faced lady with a warm smile and black curly hair.

"Granny, who is this?"

"My sister, Madge, Later lady Russell. Founder of the Chalet School!" Joey added with pride.

"That portrait has been on that wall for as long as it was presented to the school. Oddly enough when the Hades took it down, things started to go wrong. As soon as it was put up again, by some well meaning middles, Hades announced her resignation! As long as that portrait remains there, the Chalet School will be in good hands!"

Joey blew a kiss to the portrait.

"I can still feel her presence in the room!"

Tamsin smiled at the portrait. She could swear it smiled back with a broader grin! she looked to follow the party and looked back at the portrait again...No...it was quite normal!"

#26: Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England

Posted: Fri Aug 04, 2006 10:35 pm
—
Have only just read this and really enjoyed it, so who is head at the school now or did I miss something?

#27: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sat Aug 05, 2006 11:35 am
—
The party had returned to Freuedesheim and Joey was holding court. Johann had his wicked eye on the cake trolley, guarded by the sprightly centenarian Miss Annersley.

"So Granny, who is Headmistress of the Chalet School now?"

"Me! I mean I!" said Len blushing at her ex-Head.

"Auntie Len! You would make a wonderful Headmistress!"

"Thanks! I am training Cecil up to take it over though! I wish to spend some time with my grandchildren to be!"

Len's daughters raised their eyebrows at this oh so subtle hint for them to get married and get procreating.

"Granny, about Grandpa was he really? I mean... Did he? Well, Mummy didn't like him. What was he really like?"

For answer, Joey strode over to her vast collection of photographs and picked one of Jack off the wall.

"That's your Grandpa, during the late fifties, when your triplet aunties were finishing at the Chalet School."

A tall, average looking man with fair hair grinned out of the photograph at her.

Geoff intervened. "Rosie had said Dad used to beat the living daylights out of boys, she seemed to blame what I went through at prep school on Dad."

Joey looked upset. Miss Annersley drew a deep breath.

"Most fathers of that time were authoritarian by today's standards. They had just fought a major war against the most brutal regime. Besides, Jack was also born the same year the Titanic sank. He was from a different time. It doesn't mean he never loved his children, including his boys."

Miss Annersley had gently said her piece about Jack. Geoff still looked upset.

"Maybe it was because I was born so late in Dad's life. All my friends had fathers with different attitudes. I didn't understand Dad. I wanted something different from him."

Joey had unlocked a desk drawer and handed Geoff two bound volumes.

"I typed your father's diaries up after he died. Geoffrey, promise me you will read them. That way you may understand Papa. You can read them with Tamsin if you like."

Tamsin was full of questions, though.

"What about Uncle Mike?"

Joey and Hilda appeared to tire, so Len took over.

#28: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sat Aug 05, 2006 11:39 am
—
I'm glad Tamsin is finally getting to know her family. They seem so nice and welcoming. Thanks Phil.

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

Posted: Sat Aug 05, 2006 11:59 am
—
I'm glad Geoff and Tamsin have met their Maynard relatives.

#30: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Sat Aug 05, 2006 12:18 pm
—
It's great that they seem to be getting along. I hope the diaries can explain to Geoff what he needs to know.

#31: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sat Aug 05, 2006 3:31 pm
—
Geoff stayed in his father's old study, sitting in his chair, at his desk and read the diaries avidly. He could hear Len saying some realistic but nice things about Mike,

"Well, We knew he had a temper, all of us, we just ignored his bad moods and they sort of fizzled away, but Auntie Margot and Auntie Cecil have similar tempers! No he wasn't a nasty bully or anything like that, I think he was jsut frustrated. He wanted to lead, he didn't like being a subordinate or doing things in a proper ceremonial way. He was a person who liked to do things, had to be on the go all the time! He was very active! Impulsive. never nasty or cruel or malicious."

Geoff read more into the diaries. The death of cousin Rolf revealed Jack's terror and innermost fears,

"Rolf dead! Through disobedience the doctor said! Please God! Any children of mine are going to be so obedient! Boy or Girl! It's because I don't want them to die! I don't want to die before my babies! If obedience keeps my babies fit healthy and and alive, then obedient they shall be, because I love them, no parent should go through what Bob and Lydia are going through! I shall always love my children!"
A tear fell from Geoff. Jack had written copious notes. He was so worried about Margot. Was she going to die? That dreadful temper! Would it kill her?

"Summer 1953. Called to the school to find Margot up before Miss Annersley in tears. Apparently she had been guilty of attempted blackmail and vicious bullying! My own Margot! She had also accepted an expensive clock from Emerence as a gift! I have failed as a father! I should be taken out and beaten! That my own daughter could do this to me! Miss Annersley did not spare Margot. She said the only thing that stopped her being immediately expelled was the fact she had shown remorse! I nearly fainted myself! I could not look at the girl for weeks! This is how she repays the love and care we gave her!"

There was more to follow...

"No sooner had I forgiven Margot for that heinous act than Mike juimps into a ravine after a bird's nest! Joey collapsed with shock! She didn't come round for two hours! Her brain could have been starved of oxygen and all sorts of things! He's so like Margot! Not only did he endanger his mother's life, but also his own! I've falied! Failed! Failed! failed! Why won't my children see that I want them obedient? It's my way of showing I love them! I can't bear my wife and children, any of them to die. I keep thinking back to poor Rolf! Mike has woken the nightmare in me. The nightmare that one day a child of mine may die before me through a wilful act of disobedience!"

Suddenly all was clear to Geoff. His Father and to a certain extent his mother were not of the sentimental type who regularly smothered each other in kisses with sweet sloppy murmurings of "I love you" or silly pet names, their love was strong and silent. It was a mutual understanding of put simply, "love". Jack showed his love time and again by getting his family to do as they were told. He was a doctor, he would tell people the best thing for them. His whole profession and life was to help!

Geoff looked at the later entries. He was curious now as to how Dad reacted to Mike's death on active service.

"1982. The Ministry of Defence have confirmed Michael is dead. I find it hard to write now, my greatest fear is realised, a child of mine dies before I, but he didn't die through disobedience, he died saving lives and through doing what he was told! A cruel, cruel, cruel irony! I am too distressed to write more. I must go to my wife."

Geoff then searched the diaries for references to him. Geoff was apparently "A sweet little boy, bouncing with energy!" As Jack and Geoff grew older and apart, Jack's pain increased, "What have I done wrong? I can't seem to speak to Geoff without him taking offence! Doesn't he love me?"

It was Jack's last entry about Geoff that brought forth a torrent of emotion, "Geoff has married the wrong girl for him. I don't think she really loves him. She is more in love with her short sighted principles. Oh my poor Geoff. I wish you would come back to your Papa, we can sort this out."

The unseen sensitive, fearful, anxious Jack Maynard was at last revealed to his son. Geoff did not care how loudly he howled as he hugged the diaries closely to him.

"Papa, I'm sorry! I'm so sorry!"

He did not notice his older brothers Stephen and Charles rush in to console him. Fortunately he had not woken his Mamma, and Tamsin had gone to bed earlier, but he was up for hours with his remaining siblings, clinging on to them for dear life.

Now he was resolved. He had to do something about Rosie.

#32: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sat Aug 05, 2006 3:51 pm
—
I'm glad Geoff now has a better understanding of his father, but I hope he can share this with Rosie. I do think she feels she's also doing what's right for her family and it would be nice to see her relationship with Geoff saved.

#33: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sat Aug 05, 2006 11:06 pm
—
Back in the UK, Rosie was not having a very happy time with her parents or her elder brothers and sisters.

"I can see I have let you have your way for far too long young lady!" Mrs Renton said.

"Come on girl! It's obvious you love Geoff! Listen to your mother and try and meet your husband halfway!" This from her father, Mr Renton, an ex head of Malvern School.

"You can't want to lose a lovely guy like Geoff!" said her sister Caroline with the utmost severity.

"Allright!" sobbed Rosie. "I shall go out to Switzerland and try and patch things up with the Maynards! I just hope I haven't gone too far!"

"Ill bet you have!" growled her intolerant sister, Georgina. This did not help Rosie, and Mr Renton gave Georgina a warning look.

"Just do your best darling, remember we love you and we are very fond of Geoff too!" he added.

Despite their severity as older sisters, Caroline and Georgina softened and helped their youngest sister pack. They offered kind words as she departed at the airport.

"Do your best Rosie! I know you can make it up with them!"

Rosie nodded and kissed her sisters goodbye. Within twelve hours, she was standing at the gates of Freuedesheim! Felix Maynard answered the door, holding a straining Johann by the collar.

"Rosie?" he gaped in astonishment.

"Please! I want ot make it up with your family and I want my husband and daughter back! I promise I won't keep them away from you! I just want my Geoff!"

Geoffrey had been up all night with his siblings talking about Papa. He was exhausted and fast asleep. Miss Annersley and Len had taken Tamsin out for a walk. Rosie was welcomed in to speak to Joey.

Despite her octogenerian years, Joey was defensive at first, horrible things had been said by both parties when they last met. However she mellowed as she realised how badly Rosie wanted to make things up.

#34: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sun Aug 06, 2006 4:31 am
—
Thank goodness! I hope Geoff is accepting of his wife - he sounds a really nice guy, so I think there's a good chance he will be. Thanks Phil.

#35: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sun Aug 06, 2006 11:47 am
—
Rosie was nervous as she greeted the elderly matriarch.

"Mrs Maynard, I am so sorry..."

"Please, call me Joey!"

"I'm afraid I... Well... I didn't understand your late husband...and you see...I..."

"Poor Geoff didn't understand his Papa either, he does now. It is never too late though."

Joey had the diaries with her.

"Geoff only got to know his father through reading these. Would you like to do the same? It may help you as well. If we can explain how we are, hopefully e can understand one another."

Joey ordered cake and coffee. Rosie, forgetting her weight watchers plan was engrossed in the diaries and took two highly calorific cakes. (Bad girl).

"Joey! I had no idea he felt this way! Your husband! He was terrified of tragedy befalling his own family! I would never have guessed!"

Joey nodded solemnly.

Rosie now had a new interpretation of the late Jack Maynard. Her daughter came in with her Aunt and Hilda Annersley.

"Mummy! What are you doing here?"

"Tammy! Darling! I've come to build bridges with your Granny and Daddy's family! I've come to say I am sorry!" Len and Hilda looked noticeably relieved!

"Shall we see Daddy?" Tamsin fairly dragged her mother up to see Geoff.

"OK darling, but just let Mummy see Daddy on our own first!"

Rosie knocked on the door gently and went in.

#36: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sun Aug 06, 2006 11:49 am
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Very Happy

I do love it when everyone's happy!

#37: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Sun Aug 06, 2006 1:51 pm
—

Fatima wrote:

I do love it when everyone's happy!

Me too

! I hope it lasts.

#38: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sun Aug 06, 2006 9:43 pm
—
Geoff awoke to see the smiling face of his wife.

"I must be dreaming!" he murmured. Rosie kissed him.

"No. Your family whom you love and your wife and daughter whom you love are here! Under the same roof as your family home! I've built bridges Geoff! Or at least started! One day at a time, we can make this! It's a new start for me, you and your family! My own Mum and Dad had a few words with me and I realised I couldn't lose you or keep Tammy away from her other relatives!"

Geoff didn't know what to say, but the elation and relief in his face was all there!

"I do love you Rosie!"

"I've been reading your Father's diaries. I am sorry I thought so ill of him!"

Geoff nodded. "He just wanted the best, but showed it in a way none of us understood!"

"He didn't think I was right for you Geoff!"

"Well, he was always man enough to admit when he was wrong. He may not be here now, but if he were, he would be writing in that diary, 'I was wrong about Rosie' I know he would!"

"Oh Geoff!"

"Now will you stay for dinner? A big family do?"

"Try and stop me! But I've been hearing all about the Chalet School, I've never actually seen it. I've been so prejudiced! May I look round?"

"Let's ask shall we?"

Tamsin eagerly hugged her mother and father as they came downstairs, Johann was so excited at the happiness, he was sick on the floor, Felix quickly cleared up the mess!

"I didn't know Margot is now living in a nunnery within walking distance of us! We must see her more often!"

"I agree!" said Geoff and they were escorted by Len and Tamsin to the delights of the Chalet School.

#39: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Sun Aug 06, 2006 10:01 pm
—
Glad things are still going well. Thanks, Phil.

#40: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Sun Aug 06, 2006 10:27 pm
—

Quote:

Tamsin smiled at the portrait. She could swear it smiled back with a broader grin! she looked to follow the party and looked back at the portrait again...No...it was quite normal!

Ah, the Spirit of the School!

#41: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Mon Aug 07, 2006 4:19 am
—
That was lovely, thanks Phil.

#42: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Mon Aug 07, 2006 7:44 pm
—
Rosie went in to the big school with an open mind. Neither Len nor Joey were keen to repeat the endless successes and benefits of the Chalet School. They were dealing with Geoff's wife, who at heart did not think private education was fair. However, she was part of the family and must feel that her views were respected.

There was sill a great deal of freindship emanating from Joey and Len but Rosie could tell the two women were nervous about what she thought of the school. Rosie too was aware how nervous the good ladies must be feeling.

At the end of the tour, Len and Joey could have held their breaths in excitement for Rosie's verdict.

"It's a good school. I know it's a big step for me, but would you consider having Tamsin here in the future?"

The feud was closed, old wounds were healed and olive branches accepted!

#43: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Mon Aug 07, 2006 7:54 pm
—
Hooray! Tamsin will be so thrilled to hear that!

Thanks Phil.

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

Posted: Tue Aug 08, 2006 2:31 pm
—
It's so nice that Rosie managed to forget her old prejudice's and that Joey and Len were willing to meet her halfway.
Thanks for another excellent drabble Phil!

#45: Author: leahbelle, Location: Kilmarnock

Posted: Tue Aug 08, 2006 2:44 pm
—
That was great, Phil. So glad that all the old rifts have been healed and the family can make a new start.

The CBB -> Ste Therese's House

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