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What did Jack say to Mike? Finished 1/6/06

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#1: What did Jack say to Mike? Finished 1/6/06 Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 11:26 am
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Jack Maynard trembled with emotion. He was going to see his son Michael. Could he trust himself not to fly into a rage the moment he saw the boy?

Jack loved and adored Joey with all his heart. He loved that mad girl he had first met on the Tiernsee when he was fresh out of medical school. For one terrible moment he had thought she had collapsed and died of shock. She hadn't woken for two hours! Was her brain getting enough oxygen? When would she wake up? For those agonising hours, Jack had come close to the grief which his wife had felt for him that terrible day she received a letter from the admiralty when he was listed as missing, presumed dead.

Joey had woken up and with typical insouciance asked what the fuss was all about! Jack could have collapsed himself! Then he had made inquiries as to why Joey had fainted. Len had said one word. "Mike."

Bellows of rage had emanated from Jack. "Why did the boy do these things. Can't he obey just for five minutes? Why won't he grow up?"

Jem had told him to thrash the boy and have done with it. Jack had looked at his brother in law and said, "If I did, I would kill him!"

Now Jack's temper had passed. It had taken days. Of his children, Jack had only seen the triplets.

Even with the triplets he was curt. He took one look at Margot and felt anger.

Only weeks earlier, Margot had had to endure the most terrible, most life changing experience she had ever experienced. Revealed as an eavesdropping, bullying, blackmailer, she had endured all her father's disgust and rage and contempt at her actions. For two weeks after she returned home, he did not acknowledge her existence. Every night Margot had cried herself to sleep, calling out for her Papa. Then when she was convinced he had disowned her, he had forgiven her and spoken to her again.

When Mama collapsed, thanks to Mike's escapade, she saw the consequences of what would have happened had Mama been told of her own actions which had brought her to the brink of expulsion. It was only the concern over Mama's health which had saved her from that deserved penalty. Now Mike had done it.

All that punishment she had endured so that Mama would not be ill! Margot refused to look at Mike as she felt like killing him. She hated him.

"Kill him Papa!" she blurted out, with no thought whatsoever.

Silence.

Jack slowly turned to look at Margot.

"I beg your pardon?"

Margot instantly regretted her comment. "I'm sorry Papa."

"So I should think, after your little escapades! You are no better than he is! I shall never forget what you did last term! Never!"

Margot burst into tears. Her world had fallen apart again because she was so stupid and nasty! Why did she hurt people she loved?

Jack himself heard the baby like howl of despair and ran to comfort his daughter. He sat with her on the sofa.

Margot shook with emotion. "I'm sorry Papa. I jsut saw that if Mama knew what I had done, she would have..."

"Yes. The same thing. She would have collapsed. Only it would have been a few weeks earlier. Darling. In some ways, Mike has done you a favour. You have seen what would have been the results of your actions, but this time you were not the cause. Perhaps in this way, your brother has helped you to strengthen your reformation!"

Margot looked at her father with hope in her eyes.

"Maybe, you can help me with Mike."

And Jack looked up the stairs to where he could see Mike's room was.

Last edited by Phil on Thu Jun 01, 2006 11:18 am; edited 12 times in total

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

Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 12:04 pm
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I always wanted to know what happened here. Also what did Madge and Jem say when they had Mike in England? (feeds bunny additional carrots)

#3: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 2:23 pm
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It took Jack a long time to calm Margot.

For her part, Margot was terrified of incurring her father's wrath. If there was some way of helping her father over Mike.

"Papa, what if I spoke to Mike first? What if I tell him what I did and how upset you were?"

Jack shook his head.

"No Margot. I must speak to Mike directly, and I must not delay. Wait here, I'll call you if I need you."

And kissing his daughter, he slowly mounted the stairs. He took a deep breath as he grabbed the doorknob and wrenched the door open and went inside!

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

Mike Maynard had barely eaten in the past three days. His face was white and constantly tear stained. He shook and felt sick. His tear stained pillow was more like a damp sponge and he had the most horrendous headaches. There was no colour in his eyes and he just sat on his bed, utterly listless, saying and doing nothing.

He had seen the look of hatred in the eyes of his siblings. All the grown ups were cross with him too. Nobody said a word to him. People pushed him out of the way, snapped at him, shouted at him. Why, thought Mike did they not just beat him and have done with it?

Michael Maynard just wanted to die. At seven years old, he wanted no more of life. He had killed his Mama. He was a murderer and he was going to hell for that. For the past three days, he had prayed to God to say how sorry he was for killing Mama. He was haunted by visions of Mama as he remembered her. happy, lively, laughing, singing, in that lime green dress she loved. Then the perfume. He remembered the cuddles and that perfume only she wore. The perfume of Mama. Even her scolding seemed like a pleasure. Now he had killed her. He wouldn't even meet her in heaven, he was so wicked! Why didn't Papa come and thrash him to death? He had cried himself to sleep wailing for his Mama. She didn't come. No one told him that she was alive and well.

He hunted for something from his baby days. Something which he had scorned as babyish and thought of throwing away, but he couldn't. He found it. One last memento of Mama. It was a teddy bear. A plain ordinary teddy bear and it was given to him by Mama. He could almost smell her perfume again! Would they let him say goodbye to her?

His morbid, despairing thoughts were interrupted by the door being swung open and there was Papa. Wide eyed and distressed, standing tall, Jack was a mixture of feelings. Mike saw those wide blue eyes of his father's and burst into a loud howl of despair,

"I've killed Mama! I am a murderer! I've killed Mama and I'm so sorry Papa! She's dead! I never said I'm sorry to her! I won't be allowed to say goodbye! I love her! Please thrash me Papa! Please just kill me! I don't want to live any more!"

Jack was shocked. Mike's physical condition was terrible. He was having hysterics, his body was thin, he was white faced it was clear he hadn't been eating or sleeping.

The intensity of the boy's emotions and cries of despair were horrific. The child honestly believed his mother was dead, that he was a murderer and that he wanted no more of life. Jack was frightened for him.

Michael started to hyperventilate.

Jack grabbed him and straight away tried to calm him down.

"Mike stop that! Mama isn't dead. Mike listen to me! MIKE!"

Jack had to be firm. Michael was making himself sick. Jack got Mike's face flannel and soaked it in cold water, wiping the boy's face down. He firmly patted the child's back and urged the boy to take long, deep and slow breaths.

"Michael, listen to me! Breathe more slowly! Slower! That's it. Good boy. Well done! Now calm down! You will listen to me won't you? You know I don't lie to you. Come on calm down. Ssh! Ssh!"

He rocked Mike back and forth as if he were the newborn Geoff.

Then he whispered,

"Mike, Mama was only unconscious for two hours. That was quite a shock you gave her. She was just exhausted, that's all. Mama is alive and well and resting at the moment. She's got Bruno with her. You can see her tomorrow, I promise."

Mike's sobs became less frequent and he buried his tired head on his father's chest.

"I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry." he kept groaning.

"I know. I know. Mike, I have been told what happened and yes I was very cross. I'm not now. But I must talk to you about the importance of obedience. I must."

Mike looked at his Father. He gave him his full attention.

"Mike I will tell you about your dead cousin, Rolf..." Jack began

#4: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 2:33 pm
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Poor Mike, that was awful for him. I'm so glad Jack found it in himself to be good to him after that, although it would need a very hard harted person to ignore such distress. Thanks, Phil.

#5: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 2:34 pm
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I've always wanted to know what happened to Rolf.

#6: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 6:06 pm
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Oh good, we finally get to find out what happened to Rolf Very Happy

Thanks Phil!

Kathryn

#7: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 6:45 pm
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"Mike, soon after I went to the Tiernsee to be with your Uncle Jem, and Auntie Mollie was teaching at the Chalet School, I received a wire requesting Mollie and I to return to England urgently. Your cousin Rolf had died in a terrible accident. He was just thirteen.

He was the only child of your Uncle Bob and Auntie Lydia. Unfortunately, Uncle Bob was away with his regiment most of the time and Aunie Lydia refused to discipline Rolf. He was never punished as you and your brothers and sisters are.

He was only sent to school at the age of eleven because Bob had put his foot down. There had been tears over that from Lydia. She thought Rolf could have the same governess. Bob insisted on school. He recognised Lydia had no control over him. As a result, Rolf was spoiled and rude. He was often rebellious. When your Auntie Madge and Mama visited Pretty Maids for the first time, he was so rude, poor Bob could have died of shame! He thrashed Rolf, but Lydia was often the one in tears over it.

Anyway, when Auntie Mollie and I returned to England, we found out what had happened. Bob and even Lydia had told him he was not to play with his father's motor car. There was a problem with the brakes. He had been told several times that day, "Don't go anywhere near the car."

But he did, Mike! He chose to disobey!"

Mike looked shocked. He would never dream of touching Papa's car! Never! That seemed beyond the realms of wickedness!

"Rolf argued with his mother. Instead of getting cross with him, she became all tearful and pleaded with him to be good. He then said he was running away. There is a steep hill near the garage where Bob kept his car. It had been raining and the track was muddy. Guess what Rolf did Mike?"

Jack looked at his son, a pleading expression in his eyes. Papa was almost crying!

"He took the car?" Mike asked weakly.

Jack nodded.

"He took the car. He had no idea how to use it. Suddenly Lydia heard a terrific roar of the engine, then a crash, then a scream that would live with her forever. The car shot out of the garage, banged into a tree skidded and rolled down the hill. Rolf never stood a chance. He had multiple injuries and died hours later. All Lydia could say to Bob was, "I told him to leave the car alone." it was too late."

Michael Maynard was shocked. He had never heard his father speak in such detail about his cousin Rolf. Any questions about Rolf were usually met with silence! To have made Papa tell him this! And all because he had been disobedient. He had been told to keep away from that ravine! He had been told and he disobeyed!

"Don't you see Mike, what disobedience can lead to?" Jack was becoming emotional now. He gripped his son close to him.

"Give me some idea that you understand me Mike! Please!"

It was too much for Mike.

"I'm sorry Papa. Really I am I will try my best in the future. Hand of honour I will."

Jack breathed a sigh of relief. He was getting through to Mike at last! Offering a silent prayer of thanks heavenward, Jack continued gently.

"You see from your earliest days, we teach you to obey to make you safe, kind and polite people: things like table manners, not touching hot fires or irons, being careful around cars and ravines. It sounds like we keep saying no to you all the time, but it's only because we love all of you."

Mike nodded. He held onto his father for a good five minutes, until Jack said.

"Mike I can see you haven't eaten well. Let's go and get you something to eat, and I can tell your brothers and sisters everything is forgiven now. Your big sister is waiting downstairs!"

Mike's eyes lit up. "Len?"

"No, Margot."

Mike's brow creaed into a frown.

"Now Mike, don't think of Margot as a nasty person. She is your sister. She's had a horrible time herself recently, she may not tell you about it, but she wants to help you. Please let her try."

Mike nodded.

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

Posted: Sun May 14, 2006 9:35 pm
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Poor, poor little boy. At least now Jack is doing something to help him - but to leave him alone for all that time? Shameful.

Thanks Phil.

#9: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Mon May 15, 2006 8:53 am
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I'm glad that story has helped Mike understand why obedience is important. Hopefully once Mike and Margot have had a chat they'll both feel better.

#10: Author: Mia, Location: London

Posted: Mon May 15, 2006 10:17 am
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Oh poor Mike! *hugs him* Thanks Phil

#11: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon May 15, 2006 12:12 pm
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Poor Mike, but fancy letting a child get into that state in the first place.

#12: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Mon May 15, 2006 4:19 pm
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As his father brought him downstairs, Mike saw his elder sister.

There was something different about her. Gone was the aggressive, confident, arrogant stance, gone was the bossy and mischievous look in her eyes.

There was none of the usual contempt in her voice.

For once in her life, she looked like Len or Con. There was concern on her face and her voice had a higher pitch as if she had been crying.

"Hello Mike. How are you feeling?"

"Better thank you. Papa has spoken to me about disobedience. I'm sorry Margot I won't do it again. I love Mama."

He was still wary of her. In the seven years of knowing her, Mike knew his sister was bossy, sharp tongued and had a nasty streak in her.

"How are you?" he asked, curious as to why Margot should be in a similar state to him.

"Sit down Mike and I'll tell you."

Mike sat down. Margot sat next to him, putting an arm round him. What was going on? She was never friendly! She took out her handerkerchief to dab her eyes.

Jack stood and watched his daughter and son.

"Mike, you weren't the only one who was disobedient this year. I was very nasty about a new girl at our school. I was really horrible to her. Papa had to be called in to deal with me. Mike, do you know the only reason I was not expelled was because Mama was not well? She had just had Phil and Geoff and she wasn't well! Please Mike! Believe me!

I forgive you for rushing off down that ravine, I bet you hate that now?"

Mike nodded.

"I hate the thing I did. But you see how what we have done ended up hurting Mama and Papa whom we love and they love us? We musn't do that or anything like that again! It's important not to be disobedient! It was horrible seeing Papa so upset over what I did."

Margot finished her little speech mournfully. Tears flowed down her face. Mike held on to her, as he did to Len when that young lady comforted him the night before.

"I promise I will try my best never to be disobedient again. I know I lose my temper and play jokes..."

"So do !! but there's a silly thing like temper and pranks and then there's disobedience!"

"I won't be disobedient!"

Margot smiled.

"Good. I know you'll try. Mike?"

"Yes?"

"Only Steve, Chas, Len and Con know about what I did. Len and Con know the details, Steve and CHas only know what I've told you. I'm still ashamed of it. Please don't ask any more about it and don't tell the tinies!"

"I won't. I promise."

"Good. Let's have something to eat."

Mike felt his appetite returning and held Margot's hand as they went to the Speisesaal.

#13: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Mon May 15, 2006 4:28 pm
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It's nice to seem them pulling together at a time of need. I'm glad Margot could help Mike.

#14: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Mon May 15, 2006 10:56 pm
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Mike had been reunited with his siblings. Len and Con were attending to Mama, so Margot had explained for him that Mike was to be forgiven, reinforcing Len's earlier message of the morning.

The tinies were very forgiving. Steve and Chas seemed very stiff and sharp with him. Steve in particular seemed to have difficulty controlling himself. Chas was more sympathetic, he and Margot had a special understanding with each other and he could be relied upon to see her point of view.

Steve however, would only really listen to Len. He was frequently stubborn in his dealings with Margot as he resented her bossiness.

Mike went to bed that night a happier and wiser creature.

When the morning came, he would see Mama!

#15: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Mon May 15, 2006 11:38 pm
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Thanks Phil, it's really interesting to see the relationships that have developed between the various siblings. I guess that in a family that size, there were always bound to be natural allegiances.

Thank you Very Happy

Kathryn

#16: Author: Elisabeth,

Posted: Tue May 16, 2006 11:04 am
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Having read this through more or less from the beginning, I actually have tears in my eyes. It's just something about the relationships between Mike and Jack and Margot that I found so touching - especially the bit when Jack was talking to Mike and telling him about Rolf. It's lovely to see more of how the way the family fits together too - the special understanding between Margot and Chas, and the stubbornness of Steve. It's all adorable. Well done. Very Happy

#17: Author: Mrs Redboots, Location: London, UK

Posted: Tue May 16, 2006 3:34 pm
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Thanks, Phil. I do get the impression that several of Jack's children have inherited his own sharp temper......

#18: Author: Elle, Location: Peterborough

Posted: Wed May 17, 2006 2:50 pm
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Is that the end? Or is there going to be more? I really enjoyed that. It would be nice to see Mike reunited with Joey (hint hint!)

Thanks Phil

#19: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu May 18, 2006 10:59 pm
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Mike woke up. He washed, dressed and had impeccable manners at the breakfast table. He dared not lose the treat in store for him today. Papa had promised he would see Mama.

After brushing his teeth and he had to do that thoroughly or he would have to do them again, he presented himself to Len.

Every little delay seemed an eternity to him. He just wanted to run straight to Mama now!

He knew that the eyes of his older siblings and other grown ups besides Papa were watching him. He dare not put a foot wrong!

Len smiled with approval. She could see the hope dawning in the boy's eyes. Hope turned to horror as he thought of something terrible.

"Len, what if Papa or Uncle Jem says Mama is not well?"

Len hesitated. This was a possibility, then the most wonderful, lively, golden, bright voice floated downstairs.

"Well, that egg was delicious! Now for the last time Madge, may I see my son, please?"

Len smiled. Mama sounded as if she was tired of her confinement in bed and was on top of the world.

Mike did not need the bidding of his Aunt or the escort of his eldest sister. A mini cyclone sped up the stairs crying out, "Mama! Mama! Mama!"

This was met by an equally emotional,

"Mike! Mike! Mike! Is that you? Where are you? My silly little man! Why are you crying?"

Mike was in the arms of the most wonderful woman in his life: his mother. He was weeping tears of joy, relief and love.

"Mama! I thought you were dead! Nobody said if you were dead or not! I never wanted to kill you! Oh Mama! I've thanked God that I am not a murderer after all! Mama I'll try and be good now I promise! I love you Mama!"

Mike collapsed sobbing onto his mother. Joey for her part was shocked to see Mike in such a state of despair. She expected him to be very sorry, but this? She looked at Len and Madge accusingly.

"Nobody told him I regained consciousness after two hours?"

"We were all so busy and so worried about you Mama..." Len faltered.

Joey fixed her with a cold glare.

"I can understand that from you Helena, but your uncle or aunt should have spoken to Mike!"

Mike's sobs had subsided.

"Darling, you've made yourself ill! Go with Len and wash your face, then come back and see me."

Mike nodded and slipped off his mother's bed. He left the room with Len. That young lady was anxious to escape her mother's icy glare!

Joey rounded on Madge.

"How dare you! HOW DARE YOU!"

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

Posted: Thu May 18, 2006 11:11 pm
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ohhh! Now what does Joey say to Madge?

#21: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Thu May 18, 2006 11:13 pm
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I think Madge is in for it this time...poor little Mike. Joey is so lovely in this, thank you Phil Very Happy

Kathryn

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

Posted: Thu May 18, 2006 11:21 pm
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Well done Joey - she was actually wonderful in this episode in the book.

Thanks Phil.

#23: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu May 18, 2006 11:29 pm
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"Really Josephine! Mike wasn't the only one who thought you were dead!"

Unfazed by the use of her full Christian name, Joey sat back and sighed

"Madge, what's happened to you?"

"What do you mean?"

"I remember when you first started the school. You were so different. So full of common sense. You could deal with hardened criminals like Grizel! You had an empathy, an understanding for everyone! You could see everyone's point of view! Madge, you've lost that empathy, that independence of mind! I wouldn't be surprised if Dick agrees!"

"I've grown up since then! I've married and had children."

"So have I Madge! And I can see that by everyone, including the adults sending a seven year old boy to coventry for three days is disgusting. I know I am not the perfect Aunt for Sybil, but when I saw the distress she was in after Josette's accident, I didn't ignore her! I went to her! I spoke to her! You know as well as I do how close Josette was to death. Neither Sybil nor Josette know to this day! It was I who kept Sybil up to date with regular reports of how Josette was!"

"Jem would say the difference is Mike's a boy, Sybil's a girl."

"Both are children! Well Sybil was at the time of Josette's accident, but she was older than Mike! Madge, if I am to trust you with Mike for the best part of the holiday, I want to know that the old Madge Bettany I know and love is alive and well! He has also got to feel he is not being sent away as a punishment. I know you can explain that to him! Try it Madge, get in touch with your old self! You can do it!"

Madge pondered. Perhaps she had become too insular in her attitude and way of thinking. She had often yearned to be Madge Bettany of old...

#24: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Thu May 18, 2006 11:35 pm
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That's a very interesting last sentence there Phil...

Thanks Very Happy

#25: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri May 19, 2006 8:13 am
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I've been reading this with great fascination. I'd not made the connection with Rolf and this story before. The strain it put on the relations between the adults is obvious in the books but Joey and Jack must have been affected in their protectiveness to their own children - the realisation that your children can die is a terrifying one for all parents. I can see how important they would find obedience.

I never felt Jack came across well in this episode and I could just see him lashing out at Margot in that way. We had a drabble once which told how Jack had lost his temper as a young man and nearly killed someone so he was scared to lose his temper in case it happened again.

I do hope Joey can get through to Madge as well.

Thank you.

#26: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Fri May 19, 2006 8:14 pm
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Madge paced the speisesaal. She had received her sister's ultimatum to get in touch with her old self. She could have retorted with a crushing "Lady Russell" or "big sister" comment, but Joey had touched a raw nerve.

She remembered the feeling of dread when she heard the news that Jem had been made a baronet. The thought of being "Lady Russell". She knew mother and father would be proud. They would be proud of what she had achieved, proud of their son in law too.

Madge also knew her late mother would not have left Mike in total isolation for three days. She could almost feel that disapproving look mother gave whenever Madge was in disgrace as a little girl.

She had been "Lady Russell" too long! She was happily married to Jem, but being "Lady Russell"!

"Madge!" Jem strode over to his wife. He looked very jolly.

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

Posted: Fri May 19, 2006 8:24 pm
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Hmmmm, much prefer Madge Bettany to Lady Russell. Which will Madge choose?

Thanks Phil.

#28: Author: Kat, Location: Abertawe

Posted: Fri May 19, 2006 10:17 pm
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Thanks Phil - really loving this drabble of yours!

Keep it coming Very Happy

#29: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sat May 20, 2006 12:10 am
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Thanks Phil, this is taking a very intriguing path!

Thank you Very Happy

Kathryn

#30: Author: Elisabeth,

Posted: Sat May 20, 2006 11:18 am
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Quote:

Mike was in the arms of the most wonderful woman in his life: his mother. He was weeping tears of joy, relief and love.

Beautiful line, Phil. This is great!

#31: Author: Mel, Location: UP NORTH

Posted: Sat May 20, 2006 12:36 pm
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The link with Rolf was very interesting. I wonder if Jo got on better with Lydia, or was more understanding after this incident? After all her son Mike was nearly killed due to disobedience and poor Lydia was always blamed for Rolf's death. Being trained to instant obedience doesn't always work obviously.

#32: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat May 20, 2006 1:43 pm
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Thanks, Phil, this is very interesting.

#33: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sat May 20, 2006 4:48 pm
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Jem had been pleased with Joey's health and was relieved to see Jack in a much better frame of mind. He had even gone so far as to play a short game with his tiny nephews and nieces. Jem had quite forgotten how entertaining very small children were.

"Madge?" Jem saw the frown on his wife's face.

"Jem, look at this. Look at the Jungfrau. Oh, Jem! I so want to go back to Tirol, when we were first married, where I first set up my school!"

"But darling, times have changed and..."

"What made you go out to the Tirol, Jem? Surely it wasn't just the mountain air?"

Jem paused.

"No. Not all. I fell in love with the place on a holiday. It was the last holiday mother and father went on before they died. After they died, I wanted a complete change, an adventure. That as well as setting up a san."

"Do you still have that yearning for adventure Jem?"

Jem was puzzled. He thought deeply.

Madge continued. "Joey does, and that's where Mike gets his mad impulsive behaviour from!"

"Jem I haven't been fair to Mike. I have been too much of a disapproving disciplinarian aunt! I used to be able to see other people's point of view, even that of hardenend criminals. Remember Grizel!"

"What are you trying to say Madge?"

"Just that when we take Mike away for the holiday, I want to be in touch with the younger me again! So I can understand him better! I used to be able to do this and I know I can again!"

"Very well!" Jem was still bemused.

"There's just one thing."

"What?"

"I need my husband, my old Jem Russell, not Sir James, Jem Russell of old to back me up."

"You've never been happy about the baronetcy have you?"

"In a word, no. But I've been happy for you, you deserved it purely on merit. How often do you treat people now Jem? You used to enjoy the actual treatment. Now it's consultations, conferences and referrals and those endless dinner parties! David tells me he was ragged at school about being the son of a baronet and it certainly swelled Sybil's head in a very bad way!"

Jem looked at Madge in deep thought. There was nothing he enjoyed more than his surgery. Lately his waistline had increased as he slept through endless medical charity dinners and sycophants slurped up to him with too much wine. It was also true about the effect on the children. Sybil's vanity had got markedly worse after the baronetcy had been given.

"I agree."

Madge gave a squeal of joy and leapt upon her husband passionately.

"I'll resign my baronetcy at once."

#34: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sat May 20, 2006 4:56 pm
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That was unexpected! Thanks Phil Very Happy

Kathryn

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

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 10:41 am
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Good Lord! Shocked

Is it possible?

I know you can hand back an OBE.......

#36: Author: Kat, Location: Abertawe

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 2:42 pm
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Blimey.

Thanks Phil! Will be good to see the old Madge and Jem again.

#37: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 3:48 pm
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Madge was shocked.

"Jem! You don't have to do that! It might hurt your reputation in medical circles! Darling, I can see the Jem Russell I married is still there, but you don't have to make rash decisions! That's not like you!"

Jem demurred.

"But I know you don't like the title "Lady Russell"! What can I do?"

"Jem it's not such a millstone round my neck that you have to resign and risk damaging your career! Besides there are other ways of showing the old Jem Russell."

Jem knew his wife was right. Then a mischievous glint came into his eyes.

"It would be a superb prank to play on Jack and Joey!"

Madge laughed. "A pity we can't do it now, we shall have to store that up for later, maybe practice on the kids back home! Don't you think David and Sybil would be shocked? I could just see their faces!"

Jem roared with laughter. He could imagine the expressions on his daughter's beautiful face and his son's serious face if he said he had resigned his baronetcy!

"First things first, Jem! We must persuade Mike to come with us for the holiday and not make it sound like a punishment."

Jem nodded his agreement.

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

Mike was piecing together a jigsaw with his beloved Mama.

Suddenly Uncle Jem, Auntie Madge and Papa put in an appearance.

"Right old lady! the Baronet has given you a clean bill of healthg, you are to get up now, get some fresh air and stop being a thoroughgoing lazybones!" proclaimed Jack Maynard.

"Well I like that! I've been dying to be released from this bed for days!"

Mike moved to leave, certain that Mama was about to dress. He was stopped by his uncle.

"Hold on Mike! How would you like an adventure?" Jem asked.

Mike was puzzled. Auntie Madge smiled.

"Mike, we would like to take you with us for the first part of the holiday. Now I need you to think this through. Do you think Mama can cope with all of you at the Tiernsee after the shock she has had?"

Mike shook his head.

"Besides, you've got to understand you were only the cause of Mama collapsing, she had been working herself too much for the past couple of years, so it wasn't just you alone that made Mama ill."

Mike nodded. He understood.

"So your brothers are going to the Emburys, you Felix, Felicity and Cecily are coming with us. Mike, the change will do you good. You would be terrified of mama falling ill again if you were around her every day! You can go out to the Tiernsee at the end of the holiday, I promise."

There was a long pause. Mike nodded and thanked his Auntie Madge.

Joey breathed a sigh of relief! Madge seemed to be in touch with her old self again and had persuaded Mike that he was going away to be part of Mama's rest cure, not as a punishment.

"Thank you Madge! I knew you could do it!" she said.

#38: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 3:50 pm
—
That was well done, Madge! I hope Mike has a good holiday with them.

#39: Author: Kat, Location: Abertawe

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 3:53 pm
—
Yay!

But please write some more Phil - I want to know what they get up to at Madge & Jem's!

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

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 7:19 pm
—
Seconding Kat's plea

Quote:

But please write some more Phil - I want to know what they get up to at Madge & Jem's!

#41: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun May 21, 2006 9:16 pm
—
Yup, I think we need more Phil Very Happy

Thank you!

Kathryn

#42: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon May 22, 2006 11:31 am
—
Thanks, Phil. I don't think you can resign a baronetcy, but you don't have to use the title, do you?

#43: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Mon May 22, 2006 11:54 am
—
You can renounce a title - I think the most famous example is Alec Douglas-Home renouncing his title so he could sit in the Commons rather than the Lords because people didn't like the idea of there being a PM from the Lords. & I've a vague idea that Tony Benn also renounced a title but I'm not sure. Jem's only a baronet so he wouldn't get a seat in the Lords, but presumably he could still renounce his title. Although I'm sure he never would!!

#44: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Mon May 22, 2006 5:32 pm
—
I wasn't sure of resigning a baronetcy, so I had to get out of that hole. I was thinking of Alec Douglas-Home at the time (later Lord Home of the Hirsel, he may have been a hereditary Scottish peer.)

Tony Benn's father was awarded a hereditary peerage and became the first Lord Stansgate. On his father's death in 1961? Tony renounced the whole peerage and became an MP once more. I doubt his son Hilary will resurrect the title. I assume Hilary is still the UK's secretary of state for International UNDERdevelopment.

Mike had bravely fought back tears as the family went their separate ways for the first part of the holiday. He had received gentle reminders about the importance of obedience from Mama and Papa and Margot who was discovering a softer side to her nature.

He spoke little on the crossing, but was becoming increasingly worried as to Felix who was making a nuisance of himself. Just one pleading look at Auntie Madge and she understood.

"Felix! Stop running around like that! You could fall overboard and you are worrying everyone! See? You are upsetting Mike! He has already had a rough time! You are being unfair to him!"

Felix behaved after that.

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

They reached the Round House just after breakfast. David appeared with a wriggling twin under each arm. Sybil came running out to greet her parents.

Inside the house was the sound of Josette scolding Ailie.

"Home sweet home!" muttered Jem.

#45: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Mon May 22, 2006 5:42 pm
—
Mike is so sweet Very Happy

Thanks Phil!

Kathryn

#46: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Mon May 22, 2006 8:18 pm
—
"Welcome to the Round House kids! Where the inhabitants drive you clean round the bend!" Jem smiled at the Maynards.

"Now David, what appears to be the problem with these two imps?"

"General impishness Dad! They can't sit still and insist on playing trains. I suspect one of your patent draughts is required." replied David.

Jem laughed. "Release them! Now Imp Kester first, what have you been up to?"

"Davie won't play trains!" was Kester's reply.

"And we decided if he won't play trains, we are going to make paper aeroplanes out of his work!" put in young Kevin Russell.

Jem was horrified, as he remonstrated with his young sons not to abuse their eldest brother, Madge heralded the Maynards inside just in time to hear Josette say to Ailie, "How dare you take my hairbrush without asking! And how dare you lose it! And where's your handkerchief? Call yourself a Chalet School Girl?"

Madge clapped her hands for attention.

"Mummy, Josette's being a bully!"

"Mother, this creature has lost..."

"Enough! Enough! What about asking how your Auntie Joey is?"

Josette and Ailie looked ashamed.

Mike Maynard looked around him. Cecily was clinging to his hand, whilst Felix and Felicity stood looking at Sybil's embroidery designs hanging on the walls. It was going to be utterly mad living here! And how was Mama coping in the Tiernsee? All Mike could think of was his beloved Mama.

Everyone who had travelled from Switzerland was very tired, but that had not diminished appetites! A three course meal of roast beef was finished with alacrity (allowing for table manners) then a board game and then bed. There was only one incident at the dinnertable, where Josette had found fault with the way Ailie was spearing her peas with a fork and AIlie was rapidly starting to scowl.

Ailie's scowls were brought to a head when she landed in jail during a game of monopoly. Josette had said this was the best place for her and Ailie had thrown the whole board at her in fury. Ailie had stormed off to bed in tears and Josette had been made to apologise.

Mike was astonished. He was used to the loud and busy atmosphere of Freuedesheim, but he was seeing a whole new side to cousins! He had thought Josette so responsible, like Len. He rarely saw David or Kevin and Kester. Sybil was so much more homely, relaxed and domesticated here, and Ailie was at constant war with Josette!

Auntie Madge came in to kiss him goodnight.

"Auntie Madge, what is Mama doing now?" he asked before falling asleep.

#47: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon May 22, 2006 8:26 pm
—
So different from the home life we expected to read about. Thanks, Phil.

#48: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Tue May 23, 2006 3:54 pm
—

Jennie wrote:

So different from the home life we expected to read about. Thanks, Phil.

And yet it's so believable! Thanks, Phil.

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

Posted: Wed May 24, 2006 2:30 pm
—

Quote:

Ailie's scowls were brought to a head when she landed in jail during a game of monopoly. Josette had said this was the best place for her and Ailie had thrown the whole board at her in fury.

I was quite shocked as an adult to learn this was not the correct way to end a game!

#50: Author: Squirrel, Location: St-Andrews or Dunfermline

Posted: Wed May 24, 2006 2:49 pm
—
Poor little Mike. I hope Madge is able to answer his quiery - and I am so glad he was able to tell her that he was worried both there at the end, and earlier on when they were on the boat.

Thank you Phil

#51: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu May 25, 2006 9:59 pm
—
The Maynards woke to the sound of Kevin and Kester squabbling over toothbrushes. Then Mike felt two human cannon balls fall upon him in bed. It was his young cousins.

Mike got up. When he got up, he stayed up and staggered to wash. He found Cecily wandering around looking lost.

"Morning Cecil." Mike said.

Cecily broke into a toothy grin. "Mike!"

Cecil needed someone to help her wash and get dressed, Mike looked around, where was Auntie Madge?

"It's OK Mike, I'll take her!" smiled Sybil "How are you feeling? We must have a chat!"

Mike was in awe of such an elderly lady as Sybil commanding his presence for a talk. He was not to know Madge had assigned her eldest girl to a special task: Mike's recovery and rehabilitation. Sybil had very nearly killed Josette once in a terrible accident. Mike was dimly aware of this, but assumed it had happened in the dark ages of family history, when dinosaurs still roamed the earth. Therefore it didn't affect him.

However, Sybil was to use her own experiences to help her cousin and her family.

Mike wanted to be on his own, but Kevin and Kester followed him around like servants. There was such a difference in outlook between boys of seven and boys of six and Mike was quite worn out by their constant demands for games. Even Kevin and Kester were helping Mike, they were stopping him from brooding on the shock of seeing Mama collapse.

Slowly, he found himself smirking, then smiling, then sniggering, then laughing. There was so much to amuse him. Ailie had decided she would never speak to Josette again. She was sick and tired of being scolded. However it was very difficult for Ailie to stay quiet, but when she was quiet, this only resulted in unwanted affection from big bad Josette (who most definitely preferred a quiet Ailie)!

Felix and Felicity soon drew Kevin and Kester's attention away from Mike. So Mike and Cecily would just sit down to read. Cecily loved her picture books and in a strange way she was like Mike. She had a very strong, determined will and quite a temper when roused. Joey had brought up all her children to look after their younger siblings, including the boys and every so often, Mike found himself remembering little things which Mama had told him about remembering sunhats for sunny weather. Previously he had listened only on sufference and because Papa said so, but now he was rewmembering it and was an attentive brother to little Cecily, whilst Felix, Felicity, Kevin and Kester rolled in the mud at the bottom of the garden, much to Auntie Madge's horror.

At length, Sybil wandered by as Cecily was having a nap and Mike watched over her. Uncle Jem had given him a book on naval destroyers and David had provided lots of Eagle and Magnet comics with drawings of warships in.

Sybil pondered, had she given Mike enough time? She was anxious to do her mother's bidding and talk to Mike to see how he was, but was awarew he might need some time.

Sybil grabbed the bull by the horns.

#52: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Fri May 26, 2006 5:16 am
—
I really enjoyed reading that, Phil, and seeing how they all interracted with one another. Sybil sounds lovely, as does Cecil. I hope Mike has a wonderful time with them all.

#53: Author: ibarhis, Location: London and Hemel Hempstead

Posted: Fri May 26, 2006 6:25 am
—
What a mad house! Now I remember why I stopped at two children.

I hope Sybil can help Mike...

#54: Author: Alison H, Location: Manchester

Posted: Fri May 26, 2006 7:46 am
—
I'd never have thought of that, but of course Sybil was the obvious person to help. Shame Jo wasn't as understanding with her as she was with Mike.

#55: Author: kimothy, Location: Glasgow

Posted: Sat May 27, 2006 11:08 am
—
im really enjoying this! and as i just did a major catchup i got to see the russells in their full glory!!! Laughing

*hoping there will be more soon*

#56: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Sun May 28, 2006 11:48 am
—
"She looks so much like Josette did at her age." Sybil said wistfully to Mike as she looked over the sleeping Cecil. The resemblance between the cousins was striking.

"I remember Josette looking just like that, before I hurt her. I can remember to this very day. I shall never forget it."

Mike was all ears.

"Mike, you are not alone. You are not the only member of the family to have been disobedient with appalling consequences. You know the story of me trying to lift a kettle of boiling water off the stove? Josette just ran into me and that was it! The water was over her in a flash. It was horrible. I never meant to hurt her, but I did. It was my actions alone which hurt Josette."

The pain in Sybil's voice persuaded Mike to put his arms round her. He did not know of Sybil's pain. Auntie Madge did, so did Josette, perhaps Uncle Jem and David too.

"I'm sorry I went after that bird's nest!" said Mike at last. "I'm sorry Mama collapsed."

"I know." Sybil interrupted. "I know."

"Mike, the toughest thing is moving on and you must do that. Auntie Joey keeps mentioning the story of the kettle and I. For a long time, I thought she was being nasty, to keep me in my place because she hated me. I summoned up the courage to ask her once, do you know what she said?"

Mike shook his head.

"Auntie Joey said, 'Sybs, my lamb, I'm sorry, the last thing I want to do is hurt you. It's just a strange way I've got of protecting you, whenever I mention it, I finish by saying how good you are, it's just my way of helping you move on from it.' That's what she said. You've got to move on from what you did Mike, but keep it in mind as a warning not to be too reckless. You see?"

Mike nodded.

"Good!" Sybil was happy. This had been easier than she thought!

"Well, we are off to the seaside this afternoon..." said Sybil cheerily. She got no further. Ailie came running out of the house as if all the hounds of hell were after her. There followed a bellow of rage and Josette sped out in pursuit!

"Oh no what's going to happen now?" groaned Sybil.

#57: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Sun May 28, 2006 11:50 am
—
Thanks Phil, it's good to see that Sybil is able to help Mike. Now wondering what on earth Josette and Ailie are up to...!

Thank you Very Happy

Kathryn

#58: Author: ibarhis, Location: London and Hemel Hempstead

Posted: Sun May 28, 2006 1:31 pm
—
I don't think anyone ever said Joey was a good psychologist!

#59: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun May 28, 2006 2:19 pm
—
Thanks, Phil Isn't this a refreshing change from instant obedience and the family comes first?

#60: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Sun May 28, 2006 2:48 pm
—
Sybil certainly turned out all right, so hopefully Mike will be just as good. Thanks, Phil.

#61: Author: Mary, Location: Sussex University

Posted: Sun May 28, 2006 3:00 pm
—
This is great. I never really thought of the Russels being such terrors, but they are all so real. Thanks, and keep writing!
M
xx

#62: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun May 28, 2006 3:04 pm
—
It's far more realistic than the M/B/R clan as little plaster saints.

#63: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Mon May 29, 2006 10:46 am
—
David was first on the scene to stop his enraged sister Josette from pouncing upon Ailie.

"Well criminal! What have you done this time?" he asked jovially.

"Not content with stealing my hairbrush and losing it, I find her rifling through my clothes!"

"Wel, maybe she knows you've got such good taste Josette!" grinned David.

"This isn't funny! Why can't the little monster ask?"

"Yes, why can't you ask you young villain? Do you just want to be like Josette because you love her?"

Ailie snorted in derision. "I certainly don't love Josette! I hate her, she's a...a... she's a pig! She's always tellling me what to do!"

"Well if neither of you can behave, Dad says he won't take any of us to the seaside. So belt up!"

And with that curt command, David was on his way, hoping against hope that his siblings would behave that afternoon.

Alas! How wrong could David be. Something was to go very wrong before the day was out!

#64: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon May 29, 2006 10:52 am
—
Thanks, Phil. Nice cliff.

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

Posted: Mon May 29, 2006 10:58 am
—
Typical family there then! Laughing

Thanks Phil.

#66: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon May 29, 2006 11:04 am
—
When you think about it, the Russell family was quite spread out, so it's not likely that the children will all be friendly with one another.

ETA: when Madge announced in'Gay from China' that the family was having an extension in September, I must admit that my first thought was that they were having the builders in, it seemed such an odd way to put it. The word 'addition' might have been better.

#67: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Mon May 29, 2006 2:53 pm
—
I'm very interested to see what the something is that goes very wrong! Thanks, Phil.

#68: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Mon May 29, 2006 3:16 pm
—
Thanks Phil, can't wait for another update!

Kathryn

#69: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Tue May 30, 2006 2:11 pm
—
At the seaside, David was dunking his little brothers and Felix in the sea and Jem had taken Felicity and Cecil out for a little paddle. Sybil had brought some embroidery and was showing it to a now calm Josette. Madge was reading a magazine and Mike was examining a rock pool nearby.

Ailie was on the prowl for things to do. She scorned sandcastles which her soaked brothers and younger cousins were now building, her father had met a colleague who was there with his family and the two men were chatting away. She found a crab and scooped it up in a bucket. Then with mischief on her mind, she went over to Mike. This was going to be fun!

"Mike, you like boats don't you? Come and have a look at this!" Uncle Jem called Mike over. His colleague's son had built the most splendid model boat Mike had ever seen! Ailie sulked, now what was she supposed to do with the crab? She laughed as she saw Josette's shoes!

Alas for Aline Elizabeth Russell! She was caught red handed by her own mother!

"Aline! Put that crab back where it came from! I hope you haven't been playing tricks on anyone else! No ice cream for you young lady!"

"Oh Mummy!" It was a hot day, Ailie had been looking forward to ice cream.

"Don't you 'Oh Mummy!' me madam! It's no wonder Josette finds you such a trial! In future you are to leave your sisters alone! Do you hear?"

"I wasn't going to use the crab on Josette first, I was going to use it on Mike!"

"And that makes it acceptable does it?"

Ailie was silent.

"Right. I have a copy of Shakespeare's sonnets in the car. You will sit next to me and read them for the rest of the day, since you can't be trusted!"

Ailie was appalled. She hated reading! Come to think of it, she hated writing and arithmetic too, any sort of work, she hated. She was lucky mummy had not insisted they all return home at once! However, Ailie was now simmering with resentment. Soon she noticed her mother drop off to sleep. Sybil and Josette had gone for a walk, David was still with the youngsters and Mike was still with Daddy. Ailie slipped off into the sea, where she was quickly out of her depth!

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

Posted: Tue May 30, 2006 2:47 pm
—
Poor Aline - though she deserved it!

Lovely snapshot of family life, Phil. Laughing

#71: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Tue May 30, 2006 3:31 pm
—
I hope she can swim like a fish if she's out of her depth. Thanks, Phil.

#72: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Tue May 30, 2006 4:10 pm
—
Uh oh...

Thanks Phil.

Kathryn

#73: Author: ibarhis, Location: London and Hemel Hempstead

Posted: Tue May 30, 2006 9:09 pm
—
I always thought the families were rather too good to be true... this is far more like family life as lived...

#74: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Wed May 31, 2006 11:58 am
—
"AILIE!"

Madge woke up with a start.

Josette was calling for her sister, clearly frightened.

"Ailie! Where are you? Please come back! I won't be cross, I promise! Ailie!"

"Mummy, Ailie's disappeared! Nobody's seen her!" said Sybil, holding onto a distressed Josette.

Jem and David had gone to search for Ailie and all the small fry had been bundled into the car.

Sybil was comforting Josette.

"I know I fight with her and say horrible things about her, but I don't want to lose her Sybil! I love her! Where is he?" sobbed Josette.

Sybil led Josette back to the car.

"I know, crying isn't going to help, come on Josette, blow your nose. Come on and I'll get you a drink."

Meanwhile, Ailie had been swimming further out to sea. Suddenly she felt cramp! She tried to swim, but it seemed futile. She screamed. She kept treading water and trying to swim. She couldn't see anyone near her!

In the car, Mike saw a man with a dinghy put to see, he seemed slightly older than Papa. Mike knew that man! It was Captain Lucas! Steve's godfather!

"Sybil! It's Captain Lucas! Steve's godfather! He's got a dinghy! What if Ailie is in the sea! Please come Sybil!"

Dragging his cousin away from Josette, who suddenly had to look after the small fry, Sybil and Mike told their story to an astonished Captain Lucas, who put to sea at once. Mike and Sybil put lifejackets on as ordered. Within minutes they saw the distressed Ailie. Sybil splashed into the water and supported her fainting sister whilst the Captain hauled them both in and Mike held the boat steady! Sybil and Mike waved to a demented Madge, Jem and David on the shore and Madge promptly wrapped the weeping Ailie in a towel, thanking God at least a dozen times and weeping tears of relief.

Captain Lucas was thanked profusely and Sybil and Mike cuddled and petted until they felt sure they were bruised!

The excitement over, the Maynards had to return to the Tiernsee at the weekend. Jem wrote a special letter for Jack which he entrusted to Mike.

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

Mike stumbled drowsily into Die Rosen at a quarter to midnight. He vaguely remembered handing Uncle Jem's letter to Papa. Jack himself was restless. He opened the letter with Joey and felt tears of pride as he heard Jem's description of how Mike had helped save his cousin Ailie from the sea.

#75: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Wed May 31, 2006 3:17 pm
—
Thank goodness they found her and I'm so pleased that Jack has now found something good in Mike. Thanks, Phil.

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

Posted: Wed May 31, 2006 7:04 pm
—
Awww, so pleased for Mike - perhaps now they'll stop seeing him as just 'the naughty one'.

Thanks Phil.

#77: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2006 12:02 am
—
That was lovely of Jem to write to tell Jack and Joey. Thanks Phil Very Happy

Kathryn

#78: Author: Phil, Location: London UK

Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2006 11:17 am
—
Aline had received a very unpleasant shock. She could see the distress she caused everyone and felt that nobody would forgive her. A tearful Josette eventually did, as did all the family, but the grave talk on disobedience and trust from mother and father ensured she would keep well within the limits of the law!

As the Maynards departed for the Tiernsee, she reflected that life could get better. She was going to see Janice and Judy soon. However, a week later, the whole family were in quarantine when Kevin and Kester went down with Chicken Pox. David escaped of course, he was visiting his friends: Eric "Flashy" Nobbs and Pete "ChillyWilly" Winter-Percy.

Mike did not wish to be treated as a hero. He wasn't. He received quiet congratulations from his siblings, with questions about what happened. Jack suggested Mike write to Captain Lucas, which he did straight away. The real reward for Mike was seeing Mama look so healthy and well! He had not seen her look like that since they left Canada!

#79: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2006 12:04 pm
—
Thanks, Phil. Is this really the end?

#80: Author: Fatima, Location: Sunny Qatar

Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2006 2:36 pm
—
Thanks, Phil, that was a lovely ending.

#81: Author: KathrynW, Location: London

Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2006 3:25 pm
—
That was a lovely ending Phil, thank you.

Kathryn

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

Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2006 3:59 pm
—
Thanks Phil.

The CBB -> Ste Therese's House

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