The CBB :: View topic - Sequel to Matey's Secret

#1: Sequel to Matey's Secret Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2004 12:46 pm

I'm putting the first part - ONLY - of this up here to test this section. Enjoy your sneak peek, folks, or else let me know you hate it and not to bother! Crying or Very sad

There was no time to say anything during the hectic arrival at O’Connor Hall, but finally, when Madge, Jo and Mary were seated around the table in the conservatory, with Doreen and Robin entertaining David and Sybil out in the garden, protected from the wintry winds by the hedges, Jo could pour forth her feelings.
“D’you know,” she began, after selecting a cake from the variety on offer, “when Madge first read the announcement of your engagement in the paper, I just couldn’t believe it.”
“And do you believe it better now?” Mary asked in interested tones, her cheeks slightly pinker than usual, but otherwise showing no outer signs of her feelings, except for a glance at the ruby set in the gold ring on her left hand.
“Oh, yes,” Joey affirmed. “I jolly well have to, don’t I? Why, the wedding’s on Sunday, isn’t it?”
Mary’s colour deepened further, but she laughed. “As far as I know, it is, and if Patrick has decided to change the day, it would be most reprehensible of him not to mention it to me.”
Madge smiled at the girl over her teacup. “I’m sure Dr. Reilly has no intention of doing any such thing, Mary. Now,” as she finished the last of her tea, “what plans do you have for us?”
Mary set down the delicate china cup and sat back in the chair to consider. “Well, the dressmaker is coming in the morning to try on the dresses she’s made for Jo and the Robin, with the measurements you sent me. Then, in the afternoon, I thought Robin and Dorry could help with the food for the party afterward – Dorry’s been begging me to let her help Cook with that – while we go and have tea with Patrick’s family.”
“An excellent idea,” Madge said approvingly. “I would very much like to meet Mr. and Mrs. Reilly.”
“The Elder,” added Jo wickedly. “On Sunday afternoon, there will also be Mr. and Mrs. Reilly the Younger.”
“Actually, Jo,” Mary corrected, her cheeks scarlet, “it will be Dr. and Mrs. Reilly.”
“So it will.” Jo bit off some cake, thus stifling herself for a moment, but she disposed of the mouthful so quickly that Madge frowned at her. “And will you change the name of this house, too?”
“Oh, I couldn’t,” Mary protested. “Even if I wanted to. No, it will remain the same.”
“Well,” Madge intervened with an eye to Mary’s embarrassment, “now that that’s been settled, how about you tell Mary about some of the awful happenings that went on while you were at the Chalet School, teaching, last term, Joey.”
“Oh, do,” Mary added, finding a way to get a little of her own back. “You never gave me nearly enough details in your letters, Jo! I must say, for a future writer, you seemed dreadfully lacking in your abilities there!”
Jo glared at her hostess, who merely smiled demurely. “Mary Margaret O’Connor,” she began, “if it wasn’t that you were getting married on Sunday…”
“Oh, I’m sure you’d think of all sorts of awful things to do to me,” Mary said airily, “but as you can’t, tell me more about your fancy dress party, where you stuck Robin’s halo to her hair.”
Jo dissolved into laughter at the memory of that, her annoyance gone, and, amidst her giggles, began the story.

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

Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2004 12:58 pm

Looks good, and it seems to handle large chunks of text OK doesn't it.

Oh, you meant the story, yes, that looks good as well, as we have come to expect from you KB. Is it planned for posting or publication?

BTW have you heard from GGBP yet?

#3: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2004 1:02 pm

Actually, I was trying out both a long block of text, and the story on you lot. I'm still working on it at present.

And I'm still waiting for GGB. I told them I would be in the UK in March, if that was going to help. *crosses fingers*

#4: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2004 9:21 pm

KB, this is looking very good!! Very Happy

Looking forward to reading the rest of it!
So, will you be spending the plane journey writing? Wink

#5: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2004 9:35 pm

*g* Only if I have to!

In Berlin, I have no TV, so I will be spending my evenings writing. As well as a couple of CS stories I want to work on, I'd like to finish some Pretender ones.

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

Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2004 10:05 pm

Does this mean you will be all prepared to be 'resident storyteller' at the gathering?

#7: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2004 10:32 pm

*laughs mockingly at the idea that anyone would want to listen to my stories*

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

Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2004 11:02 pm

Why, you write good stories?

#9: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2004 11:03 pm

Thank you.

#10: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2004 11:17 pm

*huggles KB and starts the first chant on the new board!!*

#11: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2004 11:28 pm

*assures Vikki that she isn't seeing any more until more is done*

#12: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2004 11:32 pm

I though that would be the response, but at least I got to start the first chant!!

#13: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2004 11:34 pm

Yes, you did, Vikki! But I promise this won't take as long as some other stories...

#14: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2004 11:41 pm

What other stories would those be then KB? Embarassed

#15: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2004 11:44 pm

*airily* Oh, just a few little snippets I read, floating around the board once!

Why is your face so red, Vikki?

#16: Author: Liss, Location: Harrow, London

Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2004 11:46 pm

Hmm - I wondered how long it would take you all to populate the rest of the forum!!

Story's looking good, KB, and I really enjoyed the first one. But then, likewise all your stuff, so *shrugs*

And why on earth haven't A&C got back to you yet? Are they big blue fools?

#17: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2004 11:47 pm

Oh, nothing dear!! Wink

#18: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Jan 17, 2004 11:49 pm

Liss wrote:

And why on earth haven't A&C got back to you yet? Are they big blue fools?

I don't know, but I wish they would! Crying or Very sad

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

Posted: Sun Jan 18, 2004 1:36 am

Like your epithet Liss, big blue fools!!

Wish they would get back to you, I'm desparate to read Peace, but quite understand why I can't.

Still Pat sent me a nice surprise tonight, so I'm a happy bunny now.

#20: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sun Jan 18, 2004 1:56 am

Did you get "Librarian", Carolyn?

#21: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Sun Jan 18, 2004 3:08 am

Auntie Pat sent me Librarian too! Very Happy

#22: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Sun Jan 18, 2004 2:39 pm

KB it looks very promising Smile

i can't wait to read more!

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

Posted: Sun Jan 18, 2004 3:54 pm

KB wrote:

Did you get "Librarian", Carolyn?

Yes, isn't she kind.

Are you going to write more of this for us at some point, or will it be saved?

#24: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Sun Jan 18, 2004 5:46 pm

Story looks good KB. So is the C&D section of the board.

Can't believe you are still waiting for A&C unless they are mega busy.

#25: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Sun Jan 18, 2004 7:46 pm

I guess they are just busy at the moment KB, but this sort of thing always seems to take longer than it really does.

*sulks i never have anything tom swap so don't get to read things*

#26: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2004 12:26 am

Chloë, you'll get to read my new short story first! Wink

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

Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2004 12:29 am

And you are the first mod of C&D

Which reminds me I said I would archive Dancer. Better go and do it sonce it had reached 8 pages.

#28: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2004 3:22 am

Chloë wrote:

KB it looks very promising Smile

i can't wait to read more!

Thank you, Chloe and everyone. I don't know when I'll get the chance to put up the whole story, though, as I'm busy trying to get thesis work done and prepare for the trip.

#29: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2004 6:45 pm

Vikki wrote:

Chloë, you'll get to read my new short story first! Wink

Yay that's very nice of you Vikki i can't wait to read it Very Happy

Carolyn P wrote:

And you are the first mod of C&D

Wow i'm honoured Smile

#30: Author: Laura, Location: London (ish)

Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2004 8:48 pm

This is my first post ever!!

Am very excited by this. Was equally impressed that I actually noticed the small (ish) red type at the top of the screen! Very Happy

Wow!

#31: Matey's Secret Author: Jennie,

Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2004 9:00 pm

Just trying this out to see how quickly it posts.

#32: Author: Rachel, Location: Plotting in my lair; sometimes in Hampshire, England, UK, Europe, Earth, Milky Way, Universe

Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2004 9:35 pm

Great start as ever KB - now hurry up with the rest of it!

Now I need to go find Aunty Pat and find out where my copy of Librarian has got to!!!!

#33: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2004 9:41 pm

I have one word: GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!

there now. I can't believe i'm done to post 1 again! Oh well. KB, your story is lovely- more please.
Carolyn et al, does the word 'provoking' mean anything to you? Laughing

(aren't the smileys GREAT?!!)

#34: Author: Rachel, Location: Plotting in my lair; sometimes in Hampshire, England, UK, Europe, Earth, Milky Way, Universe

Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2004 9:44 pm

Lisa_T wrote:

I can't believe i'm done to post 1 again!

How do you think I feel? I was right in the middle of being examined by a luscious doctor, suddenly I'm back to arguing with my guardian! GRRRRRRR!!! Evil or Very Mad

#35: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2004 9:45 pm

That was a great start KB. You are going to give us more, aren't you Wink

#36: Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right!

Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2004 10:14 pm

You know I'm really glad the boards been sorted but I was nearly at 100 posts and now I only have 1. Not such a big demotion as KB and Vikki I know but still a bit of a blow lol.

KB are you sending Mateys secret to GGBP or have I missed the boat on this?

#37: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2004 10:15 pm

Great KB, more, please - even though you are busy!

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

Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2004 11:06 pm

Like the start of your story KB - would like it even more if there was more of it! Wink

#39: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Redcar

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 12:42 am

Like the start KB. I hope you can get more done in Berlin.

#40: Author: Guest,

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 1:29 am

Glad to see you've started this KB, hope to see the rest of it soon.

#41: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 1:32 am

I'd like some more too KB. I've decided I like this new board. I'm determined to read a lot more C&D's this time around.

#42: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 3:10 am

Sugarplum wrote:

KB are you sending Mateys secret to GGBP or have I missed the boat on this?

It's in the archive, Sugarplum.

And here's some more of this that I've done:

Saturday seemed very long to Gwynneth Lloyd, who had come to O’Connor Hall with several other members of the Chalet School staff for the wedding. Patrick Reilly had been included in that small group of people who knew the truth about Mary’s mother, but he loved Mary too much to spread gossip, even if he had been so inclined.
Patrick had been the young doctor who had treated both Gwynneth and Mary on the path to the Dripping Rock. Jem Russell had been impressed with his work and had offered him a position at the San, which Patrick had accepted, glad of the chance to be close to the girl who had caught his eye. His parents, however, had been unhappy about him being so far away, so he had, albeit reluctantly, gained a position at the Children’s Hospital in Dublin.
A visit to his parents’ home in Ballyreagh led him, quite by chance, to the knowledge that a house in nearby Enniskillen was called O’Connor Hall. More cautious questioning drew from his father’s groom the news that Mary O’Connor, who had attracted the young doctor, had just come home from school in Austria for the Christmas holidays.
Purchasing a car, Patrick made frequent visits ‘around the countryside’, but these outings always seemed to end up in Enniskillen. He became a rather regular visitor of the local pub, and managed to discover even more about Mary O’Connor than he had learned during his time at the San in Austria. A number of the young men of the town had expressed their interest, but no one had so far managed to get any further than a friendly greeting.
The next thing for Patrick to do was to make occasions to meet her – this was not difficult, as she was often taking her small sister for walks or rides around the town.
Mary had been startled when Dr. Reilly, who she vaguely remembered seeing at the San, appeared in Enniskillen. She was unable to avoid noticing his attentions to her, even if she had not been made aware of the nature of romantic advances by her time among the local high society. In her turn, she asked subtle questions about the handsome young doctor and managed to learn something of his family history.
As soon as the staff at O’Connor Hall became aware of the attraction, there was a certain amount of apprehension, mixed with their delight. ‘Nanny’ was worried for her elder nurseling and took precautions to ensure that Mary was chaperoned as much as possible, the memory of Mary’s mother’s folly fresh in her mind. Gwynneth was consulted about the state of affairs, the two women having found much similar ground on which to base a friendship, and approved, both of the fancy, having met Dr. Reilly at the San, and of the way in which it was being handled.
Eventually, however, it became obvious that the attraction was mutual. Soon after finishing her time at the Chalet School, Mary hosted a dinner party and made a point of inviting the Reilly family, much to the delight of the gossipmongers in the town. Several days later, the engagement was announced to Patrick’s parents and to the staff at O’Connor Hall. It was then made public and plans were begun for the wedding.

#43: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 3:13 am

Yay!!! Thank you KB!!!!!! Very Happy

#44: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 3:15 am

*lol* You're very welcome. Don't expect too much, though. I have a lot to do apart from write to get ready for my flight on Sat. week!

#45: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 3:32 am

Well, since that flight brings you closer to the gathering, we can't really complain too much...... Wink

#46: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 3:49 am

I hoped you'd all feel that way! Wink

#47: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 5:04 am

Vikki wrote:

Well, since that flight brings you closer to the gathering, we can't really complain too much...... Wink

I can

. KB - maybe you could post secret messages that only those not at the gathering can read Exclamation

#48: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 5:05 am

*lol* How about I try to get it done before I go, and I can post it while I'm away.

#49: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 5:11 am

Thanks KB. I will stop whining about missing the gathering - eventually.

#50: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 5:12 am

Aw! *huggles*

#51: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 5:57 am

Chelsea, I'm sure a flight from Toronto wouldn't cost that much....... Wink

#52: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 6:03 am

Oh, poor Chelsea!

#53: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 10:09 am

This is great KB. Keep it up. May I start the chanting? Very Happy

#54: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 11:06 am

Feel free, Pat!

#55: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 12:23 pm

Is it really this Saturday when you're flying out from Aussie KB? I didn't realise it was so soon.
And yes, it would be great if you could get this finished and post it while you are away.

#56: Author: Abi, Location: Alton, Hants

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 12:45 pm

I like this KB!

*continues Pat's chant*

#57: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 1:13 pm

Ellie wrote:

Is it really this Saturday when you're flying out from Aussie KB? I didn't realise it was so soon.
And yes, it would be great if you could get this finished and post it while you are away.

Did I say this Saturday? I mean Saturday week, ie. the 31st of Jan.

#58: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 6:30 pm

Ellie, did I see somewhere that you used to be Esmeralda?
Which part of Lincolnshire are you in?

#59: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 10:23 pm

Vikki wrote:

Ellie, did I see somewhere that you used to be Esmeralda?

Yes, you did, Vikki. It's in her profile.

#60: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 11:01 pm

Thanks for that KB - I suppose she had to marry a doctor! Smile

Definitely looking forward to more of this - of course you could always bring a post or two with you to the gathering = so we can see it first!

(Considering something similar if I get the next Real CS going soon Twisted Evil

)

#61: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 11:04 pm

Lesley wrote:

)

I'm taking this up with the Human Rights Commission. It has got to be against some law that the gatherers get to gather AND get to see drabbles before the rest of us Evil or Very Mad

#62: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 11:07 pm

Lesley wrote:

Thanks for that KB - I suppose she had to marry a doctor! Smile

Well, of course! She's a good CS girl!

And Chelsea, calm down. If I do that, I'll email the parts to you a day before the Gathering!

#63: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 11:10 pm

KB wrote:

And Chelsea, calm down. If I do that, I'll email the parts to you a day before the Gathering!

Thanks KB.

*goes to find some 'calm down' juice.

*drinks Jolt instead.

*ties head down before it pops off.

#64: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 11:22 pm

*offers Chelsea a choice of Matey's draughts*

#65: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 11:31 pm

Don't take her up on that offer Chelsea. Y Evil or Very Mad

ou never know what's in a draught from Matey!!

#66: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 12:46 am

KB wrote:

Vikki wrote:

Ellie, did I see somewhere that you used to be Esmeralda?

Yes, you did, Vikki. It's in her profile.

I was still trying to get as far as profiles when I posted that!!!

Embarassed

#67: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 12:53 am

KB wrote:

*offers Chelsea a choice of Matey's draughts*

*chooses one that tastes good from the nice Matey

#68: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 1:09 am

Vikki wrote:

Ellie, did I see somewhere that you used to be Esmeralda?
Which part of Lincolnshire are you in?

Yes Vikki - as KB pointed out it's in the profiles, sorry about the drastic change - I can change back if you want.

I'm in the southern part of Lincolnshire, about 25 miles from Peterborough, which is the nearest city.

#69: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 1:31 am

No, don't change! Ellie is much easier, and since it's your real name......
(what's it short for by the way? Elinor?)
(I asked about Lincolnshire cos I've got family just outside Lincoln!)

#70: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 2:25 am

Chelsea wrote:

KB wrote:

*offers Chelsea a choice of Matey's draughts*

*chooses one that tastes good from the nice Matey

*is glad to see that it works*

#71: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 4:45 am

On Saturday evening, Mary, Jo, Madge, Gwynneth and Hilda Annersley were sitting around the fireplace in the Salon of O’Connor Hall. Nell Wilson had been unable to make arrangements to arrive until early the following morning. Madge had just been filling the others in on the latest reports about Mlle Lepattre, who had been too unwell to travel so far for this event, although she had sent a delicate china vase to the couple as a wedding present.
“So next term,” Hilda offered, when at last the subject swung from Mlle Lepattre to the school, “the excursion will be to Salzburg.”
“Is that the most important piece of news you have to impart?” Madge demanded, staring at the new Head of the Chalet School, who smiled.
“Perhaps not,” she agreed. She sipped at her tea and then put the cup down to see that everyone was waiting for her to continue. “I know,” she began, “that you’ve all met Miss Browne, the Head of St. Scholastika’s.”
A ripple of murmurs spread around the room and everyone nodded.
“Well, because of her,” Hilda remarked, “the school is about to get much larger in terms of pupils. We will,” she went on, as the others stared at her, “be taking St. Scholastika’s’ girls into the Chalet School, as Miss Browne has sold the school to us.”
“What?” Jo demanded. “All of it?”
“Of course,” Hilda replied. “We’re still waiting to hear from the parents about the new arrangements, but if most of them accept, as Miss Browne thinks they will, that will be another forty girls at the Chalet School. And of course, we’ve invited the staff of St. Scholastika’s to join us, but we’re still waiting to hear their responses.”
There was a moment of shocked silence, before Mary spoke. “It’s a wonderful thing for the school, of course,” she remarked. “But I’m glad I won’t be there to see it happen. I loved the school as it was, but that many new girls does make it very big!”
“I agree,” Jo put in. “It will make it very interesting for the school, of course, but it’s an awfully big change!”
Madge eyed Jo thoughtfully, and that young lady turned red, knowing that Madge was silently complaining about Jo’s language. Rules had become increasingly strict during the previous term, to the extent that the prefects had drawn up an official list of banned words, and Jo had been instructed to watch her language, particularly as she was influencing the nursery of children in Madge’s home.
The chiming of the pretty clock on the mantel drew people’s attention to the lateness of the hour and the group parted, with people going to their own rooms. Mary and Jo looked in on the room that Doreen and the Robin were sharing, each kissing their little sisters before heading for their own rooms.

#72: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 4:50 am

Yay for more. Thanks KB.

#73: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 4:51 am

Poor Jo! In trouble again!!!

#74: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 6:40 am

1. Enjoying the new story.

2. Still finds it amusing that “awfully” is considered slang – at least I think that’s what Madge is objecting to. (In American books of the same era, the precautionary “she said slangingly” wasn’t inserted until it the speaker shortened it to “awf’ly.”)

3. Agrees vehemently with Chelsea, re/

Quote:

I'm taking this up with the Human Rights Commission. It has got to be against some law that the gatherers get to gather AND get to see drabbles before the rest of us

Thinks someone should organize an appropriately timed & placed meeting that absolutely requires our highly qualified presence. What do you think of "Biostatistical analysis of gene expression during oilseed development," Chelsea?

4. Adds links to the original Matey’s Secret. (Note that tricky change from .htm to .html, not to mention the sneaky 3b.)
http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/mateysecret.htm
http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/mateysecret2.htm
http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/mateysecret3b.html
http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/mateysecret4.html

#75: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 8:13 am

Thanks for your latest post KB - more please!

#76: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 11:53 pm

KB, your stories should carry a tissue warning. I had to go and find Matey's Secret before I read this and now I find that Kathy has linked them! Oh well. More please.

#77: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 12:14 am

*applauds*

Yay thank you KB!

more PLEASE Very Happy

#78: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 1:24 am

You think this is sad already? Boy, you ain't seen nothing yet!

Jo was Maid of Honour at the wedding, which was to provide gossip for the women of Enniskillen for weeks. Robin paired with Doreen as bridesmaids, and David and Sybil were a beautiful ring-bearer and flower girl respectively. Mary looked wonderful in a gown that had been lovingly created by Nanny and Nurse ever since the engagement had been made official, and Patrick, so Mary thought, looked just so handsome as he waited for her at the head of the aisle, with two of his friends as groomsmen and his younger brother as best man.
The following day, while Mary and Patrick headed for a six-week honeymoon in the south of France, the rest of the Chalet School group began the long trip back to the Tiernsee for the second half of the Easter term, which would begin on the Friday of that week.
“I still can’t really believe it,” Jo said as she curled up in the corner seat of the train carriage, Robin asleep with her head in Jo’s lap. Madge sat opposite, Doreen in her lap in a similar manner. “It seems positively weird that someone my age should be married, and have a house and servants and things!”
Madge smiled, looking up from her book. “But Marie is married, Jo, and Frieda will be soon. You’ll have to get used to the idea sooner or later.”
Jo snorted. “Well, it’s their choice, I suppose,” she grumbled, snuggling down in the rug, “but it still doesn’t feel right!”
Madge laughed outright at this. “It might not feel right to you,” she argued, “but it obviously does to them or they wouldn’t have done it! I’m sure Mary will be very happy with Patrick. It’s obvious she adores him, and he loves her, too. Marie and Eugen also seem to be very settled into married life. And maybe,” Madge added slyly, “you’ll have the chance to experience that feeling yourself, one day.”
Jo shook her head wildly. “Oh, no, thank you!” she said emphatically. “Not on your nelly.”
“What a terrible expression,” Madge exclaimed. “I can’t think where you come up with them, Josephine.”
Chuckling, having achieved her aim of changing the subject, Jo picked up her book and became immersed in it, while Madge did the same.

#79: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 1:29 am

Oh KB are you going to go further into Joey and Jack's courtship? Please do I've always thought EBD skipped through it too quickly.

#80: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 1:29 am

This is going to get really sad? I must go and buy all the Triple packs of mansize tissues that Safeway have in stock!
That last part was lovely, and all the characters, Madge and Joey especially, are so true to EBD's originals.

#81: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 1:51 am

Mandy wrote:

Oh KB are you going to go further into Joey and Jack's courtship? Please do I've always thought EBD skipped through it too quickly.

Umm, I'm not too sure. It's really the focus on Mary and Doreen, but I'll see what I can do.

And Ellie, at this stage I think there'll be some sad bits, but I haven't written them yet to know!

#82: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 4:35 am

*starts to chant at KB*

#83: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 4:44 am

Quote:

And Ellie, at this stage I think there'll be some sad bits, but I haven't written them yet to know!

And why isn't it written??? Hmm???

#84: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 4:58 am

Because I thought you might like to see what I had written. But if you don't, I won't post any more until it's finished.

*directs all upset people to Chelsea*

#85: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 12:57 pm

Of course we want to see what you've written KB, please, I don't really want to go and hammer

Chelsea.

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

Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 1:01 pm

KB, It's wonderful to see more of this. *Begging* Please continue, even if it is sad.

#87: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 2:23 pm

KB wrote:

Because I thought you might like to see what I had written. But if you don't, I won't post any more until it's finished.

*directs all upset people to Chelsea*

Nice tactic KB!!!! Laughing

#88: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 2:30 pm

KB. I'm enjoying this and have stocked up on lots of tissues (hint, hint).

#89: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 4:43 pm

*Thinks that KB should be posting as much of this as she can before she flies to Germany* typing

#90: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 6:30 pm

Thank you for the last bit KB but may we have some more please!

#91: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 8:31 pm

Hear, hear! Definitely more please. student

Isn't that an appropriate icon for KB, given her new status?!

#92: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 10:31 pm

Ellie wrote:

Of course we want to see what you've written KB, please, I don't really want to go and hammer

Chelsea.

And Chelsea doesn't really want to be hammer

Sorry, KB - post when and what you'd like Razz

#93: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 11:15 pm

Backtracking, Chelsea? Rolling Eyes

#94: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 11:35 pm

Vikki wrote:

Backtracking, Chelsea? Rolling Eyes

As quickly as humanly possible. Would you want your Head Mistress telling everyone to throw their anger on to you?

#95: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 12:05 am

Erm, no! maybe not!!

#96: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 4:13 am

*chuckles at the success of my plan* Here's some more!

Easter Sunday fell in the last weekend of March, so the term ended the Monday prior to this, with the girls scattering to their homes. Mary and Patrick were at the station to meet Doreen when she arrived in London, and undertook to escort the party of girls who were heading for similar destinations in the railway car that had been reserved for Dr. and Mrs. Reilly.
After the other girls had departed to their own towns, the trio of Mary, Doreen and Patrick had the carriage to themselves for several hours, during which time Doreen exhausted herself in telling Mary all that had happened in the remainder of the term. At last she fell asleep in her sister’s arms, and Patrick smiled fondly at his wife.
“Poor little mouse,” he said softly, having adopted this pet name for Doreen soon after meeting her.
Mary smiled at her husband. “I sometimes think,” she teased, “that you love her as much as – maybe even more than you love me!”
Patrick chuckled. “I couldn’t have one without the other, could I?”
Mary pulled the travelling rug more closely around her sister’s shoulders and bent her head to kiss the brown curls. Snow was hurled against the windows of the train carriage, but it was mercifully light, so there was no delay. Finally they pulled into Enisskillen and found the car waiting for them. Doreen, still sound asleep, was tucked into the back with Mary, while Patrick rode in the front with the driver.

* * *

While the Chalet School slowly became accustomed to having so many ‘new’ girls, and the old ‘Saints’ adjusted their ideas to suit those of their new school, Mary was trying to get used to the idea of married life. She had had a certain degree of autonomy since the death of her parents, and it took time to get used to sharing that power. Patrick, however, was generous at overlooking his wife’s mistakes and assumptions, and slowly they became used to life together.
Patrick had found new work in the town’s small hospital, and so came home each day for supper. Mary had prevailed upon both Cook and Susan, the housekeeper, to give her lessons in the daily undertakings of the house. In time, she became proficient in a number of the domestic arts, and thus found her day filled profitably, instead of the hours being spent in the fruitless occupations that purported to amuse her friends.
Months rolled by and Doreen came home for the summer holidays with reports of the changes to the school caused by the introduction of the ‘Saints’. She also had tales of the vendetta against the school by the ‘Mystic M’, and if it hadn’t been for the frequent letters Mary had received from Jo about the group of miscreants, Mrs. Reilly would have had difficulty in believing her sister’s outrageous-sounding stories.
The new Autumn term of 1937 began in the first week of September, and Doreen went off with every appearance of cheerfulness. There had been a few scenes during the holidays, with Doreen resentful of the authority that Patrick now had over her, but Mary was confident that, by the end of the holidays, things had settled down.

#97: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 4:17 am

*chuckles at the success of my plan* I got some more.

Great as always, KB.

#98: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 4:19 am

And I didn't get nagged too much. A perfect combination, really! Wink

#99: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 4:21 am

Ahh...so everyone is happy! I like endings like that.

hint, hint!

#100: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 4:27 am

You're expecting a happy ending to this story? Erm, okay. Keep right on dreaming, dear.

#101: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 4:34 am

Er- this may be a stupid question, but what are they doing in Enniskillen? (one s, BTW) For poky little towns it's hard to beat! I should know- my cousins live there!

*running to hide*
*remembers that to my knowledge we've noone from Co Fermanagh*
*runs anyway on general principles, shrieking 'more' en route.* Who says I can't multi task?!

#102: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 11:09 am

KB wrote:

You're expecting a happy ending to this story? Erm, okay. Keep right on dreaming, dear.

Of course we are expecting a happy ending - OK I know it's not essential, but isn't there enough misery in the world already?

I must say, I really like Patrick - he sounds everything a CS doctoer should be.

And may I, very respectfully, with no hint of nag, put in a request for more please?

#103: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 12:38 pm

Lisa_T wrote:

Er- this may be a stupid question, but what are they doing in Enniskillen? (one s, BTW) For poky little towns it's hard to beat! I should know- my cousins live there!

Actually, I just went looking for a small town that might have a large estate near it, and that was the one I picked! I'm quite glad it's a small town - gives a good reason for the girls to have been sent so far away to school!

#104: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 12:41 pm

That was very nice, KB - what there was of it Exclamation

We could really do with a great deal more, however Exclamation

#105: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 12:45 pm

I can't say you leave us on a cliff, but we've had enough hints to know there are problems ahead and we'd love to see what they are, please.

#106: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 12:55 pm

Well, of course there are! Nothing's ever easy in life, you know!

Oh, all right, here's some more.

Dear Mary,
The most awful thing has happened! A new doctor has come to the San – Dr. Hunter. He’s the most awful tedious creature – bossy and overbearing and so full of himself that I can’t stand being around him! Things came to a head last week, and the end result of a discussion between Madge, Jem and me is that I’m to go to India with Rob for a few months – six, probably.
I haven’t been there since I was a baby and don’t remember much about it, but I can’t wait to get there! We’ll be staying with Dick and Mollie, so we’ll get to see the Second Twins we’ve heard so much about, which is another jolly good reason for going.
When Peg heard I was going, she wanted to come along, too. Poor mite, it’s been a long time since she’s seen Mollie. But apparently they’re coming back in a year or two, so she’ll have them then.
Must dash. Madge is taking Rob and I down to Innsbruck to buy all the things we need.
Your loving Jo.

* * *

Dear Rob,
How is India? Thanks most awfully for your letter. I can’t imagine Christmas in the sort of weather you’re describing, and that Bill told us it would be. At the end of term, we were having geography lessons all about India, you see, as you and Jo are writing such wonderful letters about what’s happening there and all you’re seeing.
I’m home for Christmas now, as you can imagine, and I don’t like it one bit! It’s been Mary and me for a long time, and I didn’t mind Patrick being here sometimes, but I can never get Mary to myself, the way I used to. She’s always off Patrick, talking about some boring business thing, or else she’s helping Cook or Susan.
Do you know the worst thing? She’s even started going for rides with him, and that was always our special time together. I asked her about it the other day, and she didn’t even answer me – Patrick just told me off for being rude! I wasn’t even being rude, Robin! I was just asking!
Thank goodness, we go back to school soon!
Love, Dorry.

Dear Dorry,
Merry Christmas! I know you won’t get this until after Christmas, but it’s almost Christmas Day here and everyone is feeling very cheerful.
You poor dear! Jo’s been off without me a lot, too, because of a new girl she’s met over here – Dacia-Denise Parsons. I was off picnicking with them for the first few days, but after a while they stopped inviting me. I spend time with Mollie and the babies instead. Maybe you could take up a new hobby that you could do by yourself. If it’s something really good, you might be able to make things for the Sale next term!
We’re coming home before Easter, in the first week of April. Our places have already been booked on the Viceroy of India. Do let me know about the plans for the term. I will definitely come for the Sale, although I don’t think I’ll be among the Annexe people this time.
Oops, have to run! The twins’ Ayah is calling me!
Robin.

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

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 12:59 pm

Thanks KB.

#108: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 5:07 pm

Just caught up on this - thanks KB, very realistic. Love the School/Jo happenings being introduced into the story - feel Dorry will have further problems should mary become 'busy'! Please post some more!

#109: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 6:04 pm

Great KB thanks.

Patrick chuckled. “I couldn’t have one without the other, could I?”

(How do I quote?) Why does this sound so familiar?Please put me out of my misery.

Btw Enniskillen has just received funding for a new hospital to replace their old one!

#110: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 6:08 pm

If you want to quote the whole message, click on the 'quote' button at the upper right hand corner of the message.

If you just want to quote a bit of it. Highlight the bit you want and copy it. Post a reply and, in your message, click the 'quote' button (it is fourth from the right in the row of buttons above where you are writing). Paste in the quote. Hit the quote button again. You could also paste in the text, hightlight it, and just hit the quote button once.

Hope this helps.

AND KB -- MAY WE PLEASE HAVE SOME MORE STORY??

#111: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 6:13 pm

Thanks Chelsea, its good to know how.

#112: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 8:34 pm

Mandy, I've deleted your duplicate posts for you. Smile

#113: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 11:37 pm

Yay! More of this!! Thank you KB!!!!!!!!!

So can we have the next bit please? Wink

#114: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 12:51 am

Thanks Pat.

And KB, I've answered my own question. Laura Ingalls says this to her mum when she and Almanzo get engaged. Caroline asks her does she not love the horses more than their master and she says 'she wouldn't have one without the other.'

I'm so chuffed with remembering this - its been killing me all day.

#115: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 1:07 am

I take it you mean Castle Coole, KB? (I think that's how it's spelt) Property of the Belmores. 18th c manor house as far as I remember. You could prob find pics on the web. Huge estate- belongs to National Trust these days I believe, although the Belmores still live there. My uncle goes shooting with him!!! How aristocratic(!) He once joked that I could feather the pheasants when they got back and I had a fit at the suggestion. I do NOT like dead animals!
Mind you, estates are two a penny in NI! Laughing

#116: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 1:09 am

Just read the letters properly. Poor Robin!! So much for Jo's vaunted sensitivity!

#117: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 1:10 am

Thanks KB, I can't help noticing the difference in Mary and Dorry's perceptions.
This is much more realistic than everyone getting along perfectly from the beginning. I can understand Dorry's unhappiness, but equally, I can understand that Mary has responsibilities and that she wants to spend time with her husband.

#118: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 2:30 am

Mandy- I remember that too!

KB- Things are progressing very nicely Smile

#119: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 6:59 am

*beam* I'm glad everyone's enjoying it so much.

It was a relief to everyone at O’Connor Hall when Doreen went back to school and the old routine was reinstated. Both Mary and Patrick kept an eye on the storm building in Germany, Mary having become accustomed to such things with her father, and having continued the habit after the accident in which he had died. By the first day of March, both Dr. Reilly and his wife were concerned about the trend.
“I don’t like what’s happening in Austria,” Patrick offered one night, after they had finished listening to the news. “If Hitler decides he wants it, he’s very near, and Doreen is too far away for us to whisk her to safety immediately.”
“But she’s so happy there,” Mary replied. “Look how glad she was to leave at the end of the holidays.”
“I know.” Patrick sat heavily in his armchair. “And if it wasn’t for that, I would have had her stay at home here until we see the way things go. However, when it came to it, I couldn’t bear to deny her.”
“I’m sure Madame and Miss Annersley and Mother will keep any eye on things, and get the girls out of the country at the first sign of danger,” Mary said confidently. “And they have Dr. Jem there to keep an eye on things, should a man be required.”
“True,” Patrick replied thoughtfully. “Still, what do you say to us going over there to see for ourselves?”
Mary’s eyes shone. “Do you mean it? Oh, Patrick,” as her husband nodded, “I would like to go, but I didn’t know if you could take the time.”
“Even if I couldn’t take it, I’d make it,” Patrick said firmly. “Sweetheart, I worry about Dorry, too, you know, particularly being that close to Germany.”
Mary moved over to sit on her husband’s lap and reward him with a kiss. “I’ll tell the staff to start packing at once,” she said. “I imagine we won’t stay very long.”
“If things look nasty, we’ll only be a week or two,” Patrick replied. “And I’ll write to those parents around here that we have met and see if they would like us to bring their children back with us, too.”

#120: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 7:09 am

Excellent KB - Patrick seems a really decent sort. Will Mary meet up with her mother when in Austria?

Oh, and more please!

#121: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 7:10 am

Uh, oh- hadn't made that time connection. This is fall of '37, and the Germans move in March?

#122: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 7:35 am

Okay, time-wise, this story started in the term between "Jo Returns" (remember Jo telling Mary about her experiences teaching?) and "New". Jo and Robin have gone to India and come back (Gillian) and now we're leading up to Exile, yes. Sorry if this isn't so clear.

Currently it's Easter 1938. The Anschluss is a few days away.

#123: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 7:42 am

Thanks for the clarification!

Q: Is this relevant to your thesis? (more good excuses for drabbling)

#124: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 7:50 am

No problem.

And no, it's not directly relevant. I'm examining the process of memorialisation (ie. why people decided to build memorials to various people and events), with particular emphasis on a fascinating little-known protest that occurred in the Rosenstrasse in 1943, where non-Jewish women protested outside the SS headquarters in Berlin until their Jewish husbands/fathers/etc. were freed - WHICH THEY WERE!!!

#125: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 8:02 am

That does sound interesting. How remarkable that this protest had a positive effect!!

#126: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 8:15 am

*lol* It did indeed!

#127: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 12:31 pm

KB wrote:

Currently it's Easter 1938. The Anschluss is a few days away.

And apparantly Mary & Patrick are going to be caught in the middle of it.

I'm really looking forward to the rest of this, but I'm quite worried too.

#128: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 12:35 pm

Ellie wrote:

KB wrote:

Currently it's Easter 1938. The Anschluss is a few days away.

And apparantly Mary & Patrick are going to be caught in the middle of it.

I'm really looking forward to the rest of this, but I'm quite worried too.

Now did I say that?

#129: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 12:40 pm

Please may we have some more!

#130: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 12:46 pm

Oh, all right. Just for you, Chloe.

During the next few days, Mary arranged for the trip to the Tiernsee while Patrick organised the travel arrangements and contacted other parents, many of whom were happy to take him up on his offer of escorting their children home. Mary also wrote to Miss Annersley and quickly received an invitation to stay with the Russells for the duration of their visit.
Mary arrived at the school a week after half-term and found the place abuzz with the return of Jo and the Robin, which had occurred only a few weeks earlier. Jo had visited and told tales of their time in India with such fervour and enthusiasm that her delight in the visit could not be doubted.
Doreen greeted her sister with shrieks of glee, and as Patrick was being shown the San by Jem, Mary had the day to spend with Doreen. She met some of that young lady’s friends and took an active interest in the Sale, which was due to come at the end of the term, and would have the theme of local Tiernsee legends.
In the evening, Mary and Patrick sat down with Jem and Madge. Jo was still over at the school, and would stay there for a few days, catching up with old friends. Robin had been welcomed back to the Annexe and was also renewing old acquaintances in that place.
“I don’t like it,” Jem said, repeating the words he had said to his wife earlier that day, and to the staff at the school. “I’m not comfortable with Germany’s attitude towards Austria. I think they mean more than they’re saying.”
“And for that reason, you’ve arranged for the school to be moved up here,” Mary added, having been told this by her mother. “But might that not draw attention to the school in a way it would be better to avoid?”
Jem looked momentarily astonished at this second-guessing of his decision, but he rapidly recovered himself. “I believe,” he told his questioner, “that having the protection of the men up here will outweigh disadvantages, as you say, of having the attention of the authorities brought upon the school.”
Patrick nodded slowly. “I confess, I had expected more overt signs of Nazism, but one sees nothing.”
“But it can be felt,” Jem said grimly. “People don’t stop and talk in the way they used to – one scarcely dares open ones lips in public.”
“Spies,” Mary murmured, and the elder doctor nodded.
“Almost certainly. And more come every day. This has always been a quiet part of the world, but because of the San, and also probably the school, there is interest in this place anyway. I don’t think any of our actions will go unscrutinised.”
Patrick exchanged glances with his wife, who understood his unspoken question and nodded slightly. With an answering nod, Patrick turned to his host.
“We came here to offer to take Dorry and a number of others back with us, if you and we felt it was necessary. From what I’ve heard, I begin to believe it is.”
Jem nodded slowly. “It would be a relief to know that some girls were out of the country. I think,” he continued, glancing at his wife, “that perhaps it is an offer that should be accepted.”
“How many would you take?” Madge asked.
“We have permission from the girls’ parents for fifteen,” Mary told her, hesitating a moment before continuing. “I would also like to take Mother with us. I wouldn’t be able to stop myself from worrying if she didn’t come.”
“Of course,” Jem said crisply. He had originally been shocked by the news that Matron Lloyd had had a child – and with a married man, no less! – but the woman’s work for Madge’s school meant that he had decided to overlook the transgression. That said, however, he did not like to have her actions thrust under his nose.
“I think we should call the parents of the Juniors,” Madge added suddenly, “and see if they are interested in going with you and Mary, Dr. Reilly. I don’t like keeping them in this sort of environment. It’s not healthy, even if the Germans don’t invade.”
“We will take as many girls and mistresses as have permission to, or care to, come with us,” Patrick declared. “I would even be willing to take Jo, Robin and the children you have in your nursery here, if you felt it was necessary.”
“I think,” Jem replied, a little coldly “that that will be unnecessary.”
Mary cast a cautious glance at her husband, who turned the conversation to getting in touch with those parents who might want their children out of the country.

#131: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 12:54 pm

*applauds*

thank you KB

*sends hug*

#132: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 1:01 pm

*appreciates hug and sends one in return*

#133: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 3:35 pm

Thanks from me too - it would have saved a lot of trouble if Jem had agreed to allow Jo and Robin to go with Mary and Patrick wouldn't it? But thinking of the great story we would have missed, I think it's just as well he didn't.
I don't like Jem's attitude to Matey though, and it seems to be having an effect on the way he treats Mary as well.

#134: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 5:08 pm

Nicely done, KB! It would have been normal to have taken them up on that offer, but obviously Jo and the others had to stay behind.

#135: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 6:32 pm

Thanks KB.

I must admit that I also dislike Jem's attitude - I mean look at his own sister! (um..realises the drabbles are paralell universes that shouldn't be mixed, but still doesn't like Jem's attitude)>

#136: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 9:01 pm

As I can see you are lurking somewhere on the site KB, does this mean we're going to get some more. Please ......................

#137: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 9:12 pm

Lurking nothing! Catching up, I'll have you know. Oh, all right, I'll give you more.

The full carriage pulled into London on the eighth of March, and a number of grateful parents collected their children, many offering Patrick money for his efforts, which he accepted and would later use to support those who had been forced to flee Nazi-occupied Austria with little or nothing more than the clothes on their backs.
Only three days later, the Nazis marched into the country and Austria became part of the Greater German Reich. Mary’s relief at having rescued her sister was such that she clung to the girl and spent many more hours of the day with her than she had done during the previous holidays.
With the increased attention, and having remained almost entirely unaware of the danger from which she had been rescued, Doreen blossomed and became the loving sister she had been in earlier times. She even thawed around Patrick and was willing to allow him to spend time with his wife, provided, of course, that Dorry herself was also there. Patrick, therefore, understanding his wife’s feelings, spent increasingly long hours at work, coming home in time to bid Doreen goodnight and then spend the evening with his wife and mother-in-law, with whom he had a very close friendship.

A week after the Anschluss, however, he came home a little earlier than usual from work and, as Doreen happened to be busy with her horse, took his wife and Gwynneth into the sitting room, asking Nanny to keep Dorry busy, should she come inside.
“What is it?” Mary asked, knowing from Patrick’s face that it was serious.
“Have you been into town recently?” he demanded, and when both women shook their heads, sighed. “I’ve heard rumours,” he went on slowly, measuring each word. “I believe that the recent bombings may have links to the Nazis. Word is going around town that they provided the bombs. It seems they have a lot of supporters in this part of the country. If the Nazis were, at any time, to consider any invasion…”
“Surely not!” Mary gasped, the delicate embroidery on which she was working falling into her lap.
“I truly believe so,” her husband replied. “Some of the men here are fools enough to think that the Nazis could help them in a way that no one else could.”
“What do you think should be done?” Gwynneth asked.
“I think we should leave O’Connor Hall,” he said firmly. “Not forever,” he added quickly, seeing the distress on his wife’s face. “Just until things die down. I thought we might take my parents, too, and go to the estate of a friend of mine in Bath. He and his family are planning to go to America, where his wife has family, and I offered to take over the house and grounds for him. We’re welcome to bring our own staff, as many of those who want to come, and stay for as long as we like.”
Mary looked up at her husband. They had never been anything but completely open with each other, and thus she knew she could trust him.
“Is it really necessary?”
“Yes, dear,” he replied immediately. “I believe it is.”
She nodded decisively. “Very well then. We will begin preparations for moving immediately.”

#138: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 10:40 pm

Thank you KB!! This gets better and bettter!!!!

#139: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 10:45 pm

Gosh, I hadn't given a thought to the Irish angle in this - whatever is going to happen next?
Please may we have more soon as possible, please?

#140: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 10:48 pm

Soon, dear...

#141: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 11:59 pm

Thank you Kb, but may we have some more please!

#142: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 12:02 am

Thanks KB.

Is this based on stuff that actually happened?

#143: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 12:03 am

You said 'soon' over an hour ago, KB. That isn't soon!! That's a long time! Exclamation

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

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 12:07 am

Thanks for so much today KB. This is a very interesting sideline to Exile. How much of the problems you mention in Ireland were based on truth?

#145: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 11:10 am

Thank you for that KB - would have saved a lot of problems if Jem hadn't been so stubborn wouldn't it? More please!

#146: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 11:49 am

Chelsea wrote:

Thanks KB.

Is this based on stuff that actually happened?

CS-wise, it's based on a very (startlingly!) close reading of Exile, and there was also a plan that the Nazis would invade the British Isles through Northern Ireland, but that fell through when the man sent over by the Nazis was arrested.

Here's more for you all.

Jo sat in the salon of Die Rosen, the ring with the large emerald gleaming in the sunlight. Juliet had been married the previous day, and now Jo was busy with her next letter to Mary.
“It seems so very odd,” she said to Madge, who was sitting opposite, “that they would all – except for their butler, of course – up and leave O’Connor Hall. And for Bath, of all places!”
“There’s nothing wrong with Bath,” Madge protested. “And she does say they’re going to stay at a friend’s home.”
“Oh, I know there’s nothing wrong with Bath,” Jo retorted. “I just think it’s a little odd, that’s all. She makes special note of the fact that almost everyone came with them, and that they even took the horses. It sounds rather as if she’s moving, but she doesn’t want to come out and say it.”
“Well, you know Mary better than I do,” Madge admitted. “But I can’t imagine any reason why she would do that.”
“Posty!” Jem’s voice announced at that moment, and he walked into the room. A bag was slung over his shoulder and he put it down on the table, sorting out the many envelopes it contained and flipping one in Jo’s direction. “For you, Jo.”
“From Mary!” Jo exclaimed, recognising the writing. “Goodness, she only wrote a week ago. What can be so important that she has to tell me now?”
No one responded to this, Madge and Jem being immersed in their own letters, so Jo waited until the letter-opener was available and opened the envelope, drawing out the single sheet.
A moment later, the silence of the room was broken by a shriek, which made Jem and Madge look up in concern.
“What is it, Joey?” Madge demanded.
“It’s Mary!” Jo exclaimed. “Why didn’t she tell me earlier? She must have known – oh, goodness, and it’s only six months until October!”
Madge twitched the letter from between Jo’s fingers and scanned it quickly before smiling. “How wonderful for her – and for Patrick, too, of course. A baby. That will really make her happiness.”

#147: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 12:38 pm

Aaaahhhh! Knew that was coming! Both Joey and Madge are being somewhat dense about the fact that mary and co have moved aren't they?

I suppose Mary couldn't say any more in case the mail was intercepted.

#148: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 12:47 pm

Yes, she couldn't have said too much, just in case. It might have put Jo or Madge in danger.

And was it the baby you knew was coming?

#149: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 12:52 pm

Yes - thought there must be a baby soon!

BTW did Matey go back to Ireland and then on to Bath with them? (In this story I mean!)

#150: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 1:36 pm

*applauds*

Thank yuo KB this really is wonderful

#151: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 2:02 pm

That's really great KB and I'm impressed with your knowledge of the period! Not much seems to have come out of the Irish connection in main stream writing on the period! some of the MI5 docs released in Nov last year revealed plots during the war, mostly seemingly inept, fortunately.

We don't really hear the whole story of that period as EBD concentrated on her main characters but this is exciting.

#152: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 2:52 pm

This is very interesting KB, your background knowledge definitely adds to the story.
Looking forward to more.

#153: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 3:04 pm

KB this is great.

The Eagle has Landed was on TV here last night and the Nazi's were using an Irish man to get to Churchill (he thought it would help his cause). I didn't watch it all, but that bit was at the beginning. I don't think its something many young people here (Ireland or Northern Ireland) would know.

I take it you won't have it finished before you leave on Saturday?

#154: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 3:56 pm

Jem was very keen to protect 'his' women folk at that time, wasn't he? He really only discussed anything with Madge when it became very necessary. Rolling Eyes

#155: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 7:17 pm

Thanks KB. I did mean in terms of the RL climate.

Joey and Madge are dense. I wonder if Jem figured it out (if he over heard anything).

#156: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 9:32 pm

Lesley wrote:

Yes - thought there must be a baby soon!

BTW did Matey go back to Ireland and then on to Bath with them? (In this story I mean!)

Well of course! This is the CS! And yes, Matey went with them (which was easy, as there was no mention of her in "Exile" until the school started up again in Guernsey! Laughing

)

Here's some more, and I'll do the rest of the board when it's faster!

“A cable, sir.”
Patrick took the envelope offered by the butler they had hired to replace the Nazi-sympathiser who had remained in Ireland. Tearing the envelope open, Patrick drew out the single sheet and read it before looking up.
“No answer,” he told the man, who withdrew, before turning to Mary, who was sipping her tea and waiting for an explanation. Gwynneth, who was sitting on the other side of the table, also looked up at him. “From Hilda Annersley,” he said. “It seems that the school has left – or been forced out. I don’t know from this. But she, Madge and ‘others’, although she doesn’t say who they are, will be arriving by train at ten o’clock this morning. She would like, if possible, for us to meet them.”
“Oh, goodness! Well, of course!” Mary exclaimed, leaping to her feet and ringing the bell. Susan appeared a moment later, and Mary gave her instructions. “The other bedrooms are to be made ready for visitors, as soon as possible. We may also need the nursery, so have that ready – first, I think. And tell Cook to prepare for addition guests for lunch.”
Susan nodded and vanished, and while the butler came to clear the table, Patrick went around to get the car and Mary and her mother shrugged into coats. Doreen had gone to spend the day with one of the friends she had made since coming to Bath, so there was no need to call her, and the trio arrived at the station only a short time before the train arrived.

It was a rather dishevelled group that piled out of the last carriage, each of the five women carrying a bag, clutching children with their free hands. Mary and Gwynneth dived towards them, Patrick close behind. A porter hurried up to the group, and Hilda gave him the tags, while Marie Pfeiffen picked up Primula, who was whimpering softly with tiredness.
“Hilda Annersley!” Gwynneth exclaimed. “What on earth are you doing here? We thought you were still in Austria.”
“Madame,” Mary greeted the other English women, “and Miss Cochrane, we were so surprised to get your cable. What – ?”
She was interrupted by Sybil, who was clearly dirty, tired, and, Mary guessed, also probably hungry. The red-haired girl began to wail and this set off the other girls, David and Rix just managing to stop themselves from joining in. Even Daisy, who had reached the mature age of 13, howled in company with Primula and Sybil. Bride joined in at the full pitch of her lungs, and tears slid down Peggy’s thin cheeks.
“Come along to the cars,” Patrick said briskly, having a man’s dislike of the emotional scene.
The group left the platform and hurried out to the car park, where two large cars waited, one with a driver, who hurried to start both engines when he saw the group arrive. Two porters were needed to carry the cases and trunks that the party had brought with them, and helped the driver load them into the car and strap them to the racks on the roof.
Gwynneth, needless to state, had quietened the sobs of the girls and ushered them into one of the cars, with Marie and Rosa before going to join her daughter and the other women. Patrick got behind the wheel of the other, into which Madge, Hilda, Grizel Gwynneth and Mary climbed.
“What happened?” Mary asked, eyeing the silver threads of grey in Madge’s hair and the strain on Miss Annersley’s face. “Where are the others? Why did you come to us?”
Madge’s eyes filled at the mention of ‘the others’, but Hilda quickly jumped in to answer.
“There have been some problems,” she said, choosing her words with care. “We were forced out in a hurry. The school things are in Guernsey, but…”
“I can understand,” Mary interrupted swiftly, having seen the emotion in Madge’s eyes, “that you would want to spend time with people you already know, where you don’t have to do anything. We don’t mind, do we, Patrick?”
“Of course not,” he replied from the driver’s seat. “Don’t you be worrying about a thing. We’ll be back at the house in no time, and we’ll have the children fed, in hot baths and in bed before you can say ‘knife’.”

#157: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 9:34 pm

And so it was. Patrick dropped the party off at the front door, and Nanny hurried in, in response to the butler’s call. She whisked the children away, taking Marie and Rosa with her, and Gwynneth and Mary took Grizel, Madge and Hilda into the salon. One of the maids was ordered to bring tea, and also to tell Cook that there would be an additional three woman for lunch, as well as food needed for the children.
“What about the other mistresses?” Mary asked, choosing her own words as carefully as Miss Annersley had done. “Miss Stewart, Miss Wilson - ?”
“We’d better tell you the whole story,” Madge remarked, with a glance at Hilda, who nodded. “We’ve had trouble, on and off, with the Gestapo for the last few weeks. It all boiled up a week ago, and we finally got away yesterday, with three of the doctors from the San – Gray, Harris and Brown. Jem stayed to deal with the Germans – I believe it was some business matter.”
“What about Dr. Maynard?” Mary asked as she poured the tea. “And Jo, of course. I received her letter, telling me about their engagement. And where’s the Robin?”
Tears filled Madge’s eyes and her hand shook as she accepted the teacup that was offered to her by Gwynneth.
“We’re not sure where they are,” Hilda admitted, her voice trembling slightly. She took a deep breath before telling her horrified listeners what she knew of the scene in Spärtz and the events that had followed it. “They could be heading for almost anywhere. They talked with Jem about Belsornia – or even Switzerland.”
“Who went with them?” Gwynneth asked quickly. “Jo, of course, the Robin, Jack Maynard, and…?”
“Maria Marani,” Grizel began, “Jeanne le Cadoulec, Evvy Lannis, Corney Flower, Lorenz Maïco and with Nell Wilson as escort. Jack, Robin and Gottfried Mensch – and Jack, too – went to join up with them later. Jack was already under suspicion, so it was best to get him out of the country. He would never have been allowed to leave with the rest of us!”
“Oh, heavens,” Mary breathed. She knew little of the terrors of Nazism first-hand, but she was quick enough to have picked up quite a bit during her brief visit to Austria.
“Perhaps I could see what some acquaintances of mine can find out,” Patrick, who had come into the room during Hilda’s explanation, offered. “I made some friends during my time at the San who might know something. And I’ll call tonight to let Jem know you’re here, if you like.”
“Oh, would you, Patrick?” Madge asked. “That would be wonderful. He knew we were coming, of course, but I didn’t know when I’d manage to get word that we’d arrived. It’s difficult to trust even the cables now.”
“I’ll go and book the call in now,” Patrick said, standing up.
“And perhaps,” Mary suggested, “while he’s doing that, you would like to freshen up, and maybe change your clothes. Michaels, our butler, was going to take your bags up to the rooms we were having made up for you. I’m sure they’re done by now.”
“Yes, please,” Madge said rather faintly, and rose to her feet.

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

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 9:59 pm

Wow, what an emotionaly wracking scene. Madge must be frantic. This is the first I have read of her story during this period and it is good to see.

#159: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 10:12 pm

Wow, powerful stuff. I never thought about Madge's side either.
Nice to see that Matey can still quiten all small children.

#160: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 10:34 pm

Excellent KB - a different perspective to my version eh? Wink

#161: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 11:00 pm

Oh my gosh, that is amazing, I have to say that I'd never given a thought to Madge and the others either, but Madge must have been frantic.

And Lesley - stop teasing!

#162: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 11:06 pm

Brilliant KB, you can really get the impression that they had a smaller 'flight' of their own.

#163: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 11:08 pm

Thank you KB i feel so sorry for them all!

#164: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 2:49 am

Thank you KB!!!! That was wonderful!!!!
I'm another one who'd never really thought of Madge's side of the story!!!!

#165: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 2:51 am

Actually, nor had I until I wrote this, having been inspired by Lesley.

#166: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 5:56 am

Ellie wrote:

Oh my gosh, that is amazing, I have to say that I'd never given a thought to Madge and the others either, but Madge must have been frantic.

And Lesley - stop teasing!

Teasing? Moi? Razz

#167: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 6:31 am

Quote:

Don’t you be worrying about a thing

Wonders about reactions of Madge, Hilda et al. to this bit of "reassurance" Confused

#168: Author: Tassie_Ellen, Location: Tasmania, Australia

Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 6:52 am

For some reason, I've missed this Sad

but have just read it from the beginning. Thanks, KB, it's a fantastic story. I'd never really thought about Madge's side of the flight from Austria before; it's good to have a new perspective.

May we have some more, please? BTW, when do you fly out - or have I missed that bus too, and you're already gone?

#169: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 7:26 am

Kathy_S wrote:

Quote:

Don’t you be worrying about a thing

Wonders about reactions of Madge, Hilda et al. to this bit of "reassurance" Confused

But Kathy, it's being said by a man! Surely that makes it worth something!

And Ellen, I'm still in Australia. I don't know that I'll get it all posted before I go, but if not, I'll continue to post once I get over there.

#170: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 8:28 pm

Pleading for a little more. *I have a cunning plan to bump this to page 1 so KB cannot ignore it*

#171: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 1:33 am

Have just read most of this in one go, KB it is wonderful. I have often wondered how Madge and the rest got back here but supposed EBD could only tell one story. Thank you for such a lovely emotive story.

#172: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 4:54 am

*chants at KB for more!!*

#173: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 7:05 am

Here you go!

An hour later, Patrick came downstairs and drew Gwynneth and Mary into the salon to talk.
“They’re all worn out, but none of them complained of any serious injuries,” he told them. “I imagine they just need sleep, and lots of it, as well as light meals when they do wake up.”
“Of course.” Gwynneth nodded, her expression set in a way that many people would recognise, and Mary smiled at her.
“You’ll be as much of a tyrant to them as you are to the girls, Mother,” she teased.
“Are you still going to visit your sister now that they’ve arrived?” Patrick asked. Lillian Harper lived with her husband 20 miles away, and Gwynneth had been talking of going to visit her for a few days.
At this point, Doreen’s voice could be heard in the hallway. Patrick went out and called her into the room, sitting her down and explaining a little of what had occurred in her absence. Only Gwynneth saw the change in expression and the way Doreen’s mouth tightened, and her experience with girls gave her a keen insight into what the girl was feeling. However, she had schooled herself never to interfere with the way in which Mary and Patrick were raising Doreen, so she said nothing, even after that young lady, who was secretly very disgruntled by the situation, had left the room.

#174: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 1:42 pm

Oh dear! It appears that the GEM is about to strike again!!!
I can see fireworks from Doreen!!

Thank you KB! More please!!!

#175: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 7:25 pm

*Agrees with Vikki*

Waiting for more (of course)

#176: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 7:29 pm

Can someone please remind me what the GEM is please? I remember the TEM, but not the GEM.

More story please KB.

#177: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 7:44 pm

"Green Eyed Monster" Chelsea!!! Wink

#178: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 9:05 pm

Thanks KB any chance of some more soon please!

#179: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 9:48 pm

Vikki wrote:

"Green Eyed Monster" Chelsea!!! Wink

Thanks Vikki.

Anymore story in the offing, KB?

#180: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 10:19 pm

This is in reply to people's comments to want to know more about what Madge and the others went through.

Two days later, as her concern about her sister increased, Madge told Mary a little of what she had gone through during those final hours at the Tiernsee. They were sitting in the pretty sitting room of the house in Bath, and late April sunshine streamed in through the window. Nanny and Nurse, with Marie and Rosa to help, were keeping the children occupied, and on this day they had taken them for a picnic. Grizel had, at Mary’s request, begun teaching Doreen while the tutor Patrick had hired was away, and Hilda was writing letters to those other mistresses who had managed to get away with the school.
“At first, of course, we didn’t worry,” Madge began. “The girls go down to Spärtz regularly, as you know, and although it isn’t far, with a group that size they would be gone for the day. Still, it was midnight when Herr Borkel arrived with Robin, and we were all worried by that time. He was so afraid, poor man, that he wouldn’t even come in, and only whispered to us in the doorway what he thought had happened to them all. From what he told us, though, it was obvious that the girls could never leave the country by the usual routes.”
She paused to sip the tea that Mary had just poured, and that woman saw Madge’s hands were trembling, but she refrained from mentioning it.
“Jem and Jack decided that Jack and Gottfried should go with the girls and Nell Wilson. The Gestapo had questioned Jack Maynard about that picnic I mentioned yesterday, so we felt it was best if he was out of the way in case they came for him again. Then Otto came with Daisy, and we knew the whole story.”
Mary restrained herself from asking who ‘Otto’ was and let her friend’s sister tell the story.
“As soon as we knew, we made sure everything was ready. We had planned to leave the next day anyway, but Jem was certain that we would be questioned about the events of Spärtz. I wanted to warn the school that doubtless they would also be wanted for questioning, but there was no way to tell them of it. Hilda told me when we were on the train that Otto sent one of the men to tell the school everything he had learned from Daisy, so they were also prepared when the Nazis came.”
“And what did they do?” Mary asked after a long moment of silence.

#181: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 10:25 pm

Thanks KB - I still want to know lots more though Exclamation

#182: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 10:32 pm

Why did I never consider what the rest of the school did when leaving? I was pretty young when I first read this so I suppose I just accepted the 'story' as it was told. It's really good to have that interesting period fleshed out.

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

Posted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 10:58 pm

Enjoying this KB. If enjoying can be the right words for a story on this sunject.

#184: Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 12:32 am

Excellent KB - looking forward to more!

#185: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 12:40 am

Quote:

Why did I never consider what the rest of the school did when leaving?

I know what you mean, its something I never thought of either, but if you look at it in context with today's security measures for travelling, it must have been harrowing bringing the girls out of Austria.

How many would there have been at that stage? About a hundred anyway, wouldn't there?

#186: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 2:37 am

Quote:

“And what did they do?”

Yes, what???

#187: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 2:56 am

Kathy_S wrote:

Quote:

“And what did they do?”

Yes, what???

Yes KB, what did they do???

#188: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 3:25 am

Thank you KB, but more soon please!!!!

#189: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 4:33 am

Chelsea wrote:

Kathy_S wrote:

Quote:

“And what did they do?”

Yes, what???

Yes KB, what did they do???

Oh, dear. It's at home and I'm at Uni. You'll have to wait, I'm afraid.

#190: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 4:35 am

And why didn't you bring it with you?

#191: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 4:43 am

Because I was worried about the possibility of it being infected with viruses, as has happened before.

#192: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 10:14 am

So what time do you get home from Uni KB?

No pressure, just being friendly Laughing

#193: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 11:04 am

*Looks at the time zone chart on wall, realises doesn't know KBs schedule. Sighs. Gets a coffee coffee

. Settles down to read other drabbles till KB is home*

I am interested in this period, too KB. I was born at the beginning of WWII and have some memories of it. Including sleeping in the air raid shelter and then living with my Grannie after we were bombed out. I can remember being scared of the barrage balloons which looked menacing to a small child and I still get a little flutter in my tummy if I hear an air raid siren in a film.

#194: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 1:06 pm

Here you are...

“We were ‘escorted’ to the station,” Madge replied, her lips twisted into a bitter smile that made her look years older than she was. “They wanted to ensure that we left, you see. It was a choice between that and being arrested. Jem had to stay. They wanted him to arrange for the furniture that the Nazis didn’t want to be shipped over to us in Guernsey. Mr. Flower had purchased the San and school buildings, but that meant nothing to the Nazis. They simply demanded them, and Jem didn’t want trouble, so he agreed.”
“What about Mlle Lepattre?”
“Simone, her sister and her parents hired an ambulance to take her to Paris.”
“And the others?” Mary prompted.
“As many of the girls as could leave got away,” Madge assured her. “We brought almost fifty with us, but most of those were met in London, and the others were gone by the time we reached you, here in Bath.”
She said nothing about the German and Austrian girls who had attended the school, and Mary was rather too afraid of the answer she might receive to ask for news of them.
“Where are Daisy and Primula?” was Mary’s next question.
“Jem arranged for them to accompany Margot to England back in February,” she was told. “Jem didn’t want to try his sister’s strength. Margot is in the hospital where Patrick works – I thought he’d tell you.”
“Not a word,” Mary replied. “But she might not be a patient of his. Besides, he rarely talks to me of his work. But what about the girls?”
“They are staying with the nurse who oversaw Margot’s journey,” Madge replied. “When I went out on Saturday, I visited them.”
“And the school is finished,” Mary said ruefully.
“Under orders from the Nazis, yes,” Madge agreed. “But it would have been all but impossible to open it this coming summer term. As Jem said, nobody would want to send their English girls here, and we wouldn’t have been able to have Austrian or German girls.”
“So what happened on the train?” Mary prompted, after another silence.
“We had German guards until the border, in our own carriage,” Madge told her, a strange smile on her face. “It was perhaps the only time I’ve ever had such space on a journey like that. At the French border, the Germans left the carriage.” She suddenly turned to her hostess. “Mary, my dear, I must thank you for taking the Juniors when you and Patrick visited the school. That journey was nightmarish enough, but it would have been even worse if we’d had the little girls with us.”
“I’m only glad we did,” Mary said thankfully. “It sounds dreadfully selfish, of course, but I’m ever so thankful that Dorry didn’t have to go through all that, and I’d have hated to think Mother might have had to experience it either.”
“Only a few weeks later and you might have been caught up in it yourselves, had you still been there,” Madge remarked, refilling her hostess’s teacup and her own. “But thankfully you weren’t. I only wish,” with a tremor in her voice, “that I had taken up your offer of bringing Jo and the girls back to England with you. Then, at least, I would know that they were safe.”

Next up - Jo's arrival...

#195: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 2:26 pm

KB, I like the way you handle Patrick's work. Working in a hospital myself, even though its a receptionist, you constantly get people asking you if someone has been admitted, how they are, etc. People don't believe my mum when she says I don't tell her anything about friends or relatives. They think she is being ignorant not asking after them when she doesn't even know they've been in.

#196: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 3:40 pm

Thank you KB - that is all so realistic, as far as I'm concerned that will always be how it happened from now on.
Looking forward to Jo's return, it will be such a relief for Madge.

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

Posted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 6:45 pm

Looking forward to seeing Madges reaction to Joey's arrival.
Will we see the wedding?

#198: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 6:47 pm

Thanks for that bit KB.

I'm really thankful that we already know that Joey and Co made it there safely - but when do Madge et al go to Guernsey? Or don't they in this version?

#199: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 8:58 pm

Thanks KB more soon i hope!

#200: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 9:09 pm