Con and Margot
The CBB -> Cookies & Drabbles

#1: Con and Margot Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 8:31 pm


Sorry, no more yet. I've been artchiveing here instead of writing it.
I hope to have some more tomorrow night.

Here is the link and the only part that was posted on the old board.

first part archived at
http://members.lycos.co.uk/thecbb/conandmargot.htm


On the Tuesday Con accompanied Ian to the San a little before he was due to start work. They stood outside Jack’s office and knocked.
“Come in,” Jack sounded tired. The young couple walked in and stood sheepishly in front of the desk.
“What is it with you two? You look like two errant school kids, sit down,” said Jack, looking at the pair quizzically.
“We have some news Papa, and thought that maybe we should tell you first.”
“News, what, OH!” comprehension dawned across Jack’s face and he dashed round the desk trying to pump Ian’s hand and hug Con at the same time.
“I take it you are pleased Papa,” gasped Con when he finally released her.
“Of course I am. Now, how are you, are you sleeping and eating properly, any sickness, cramps?” Jack held her at arms length and let his anxious eyes scan her for any signs of problems.
“Papa, I am married to a doctor!” exclaimed Con.
“Of course, but you are still my girl. Ian I’m very pleased for you, have you booked her in downstairs yet?”
“Yes, due sometime in April, but they promised to let us tell you. Con has met the midwives and everything is going according to the book.”
Con spoke up at this point, “The reason we came to tell you here Papa is because of Mother. I’m not sure how she will react, with Len and, well, when do you think we should tell her?”
Jack’s face clouded, he was not sure how his wife would react, she was still withdrawn and refusing to talk about Len’s death, referring occasionally to the triplets as if they were still all around. He heaved a sigh, “I don’t know to be honest Con. She is still far from beginning to recover from Len’s death, she has not yet faced what has happened, never mind began to live again. This could make her look to the future once more, or it could make things even harder for her, especially considering what happened with Len.”
“I’ve been thinking that myself, we can’t wait much longer though, as you can see,” Con pulled her dress a little closer and Jack could see the thickening of her waist and the beginnings of the bulge in her midriff that would soon give away to any experienced eye.
“Yes, that will be pretty obvious soon,” Jack grinned at the sight, in spite of the seriousness of the situation they were discussing. “I think we need to try and ensure that this does not come as a complete shock to her, but I’m not sure how. Let me think about it and sound her out over the next few days. Maybe I will suggest that it is news we should be expecting soon given that you’ve been married ten months. Then if you come over at weekend and we will tell her together.”
“Thank you Papa, now I had better go home and do some work whilst and still can, and Ian had better get down to the wards before you start chiding him for being lax.”
“Go on, you cheeky brat, but don’t work too hard,” he added as Con swung out of the door, Ian following to give her a quick kiss before they went their separate ways.
“Dr Hamilton, and outside the office door as well,” Matron Greaves caught them, a twinkle in her eye. Ian blushed but Con knew the Matron of old, “Auntie Helen, leave him alone he was just saying good-bye, we’ve been to see Papa.”
“I think I can guess why as well,” replied Helen Greaves, “Congratulations to both of you, it’s about time your family had some good news. You look well Con, blooming in fact.”
This time it was Con’s turn to blush and Ian who leapt in, “Thank you matron. Please keep it quiet, Con’s mother hasn’t been told yet.”
“Of course, I hope everything goes well for you both, and look forward to holding the little one. Now, I’d better get on.” With this she knocked on Jack’s door and disappeared, leaving Con and Ian to say their goodbyes once more.


Last edited by Carolyn P on Tue Jan 27, 2004 6:00 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#2:  Author: Sarah_G-GLocation: Nr. Guildford PostPosted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 9:03 pm


Ahh! I'm glad there's some happiness to be found in that family! Will there be moer forthcoming soon?

 


#3:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 9:19 pm


*pouts, pathetically*

Oh, I did hope there would be more Crying or Very sad

 


#4:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 9:27 pm


Looking forward to more of this Carolyn! Smile

 


#5:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 10:31 pm


I'd also like more! Please!

 


#6:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans PostPosted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 10:47 pm


For just a second I thought there was more... it's a nice bit but still... Very Happy
*being patient, honest*

 


#7:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 11:03 pm


*startled* From me?

 


#8:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans PostPosted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 11:08 pm


nope, just logged on an saw the thread started by Carolyn... sorry for the confusion Embarassed

 


#9:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 11:13 pm


That's okay, Sarah. I just wanted to clarify it!

 


#10:  Author: NicciLocation: UK PostPosted: Tue Jan 20, 2004 11:41 pm


Carolyn, that was lovely. The interaction (is that the word I want?) between Jack and Con was very sweet. Please write more of this asap!



"Conscience is the awareness that someone might be watching"

 


#11:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 12:57 am


*Thanks Carolyn for all her hard archiving work!!*
*hopes for more soon* Wink

 


#12:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 2:17 am


*agrees that more would be lovely*

 


#13:  Author: RachelLocation: Plotting in my lair; sometimes in Hampshire, England, UK, Europe, Earth, Milky Way, Universe PostPosted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 10:47 am


Surely it's time you wrote more of this Carolyn? Especially as you will have another installment of Holocaust to write later today!


Rachel the Quidditch

 


#14:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 1:01 pm


Sorry everyone, but the headache I've been suffering from is still here and after seeing the doctor and being asked what I thought it was (go figure) I now officially have a sinus headache, (as if I didn't know that!! Rolling Eyes ) a nasal spray and some large painkillers. I will try and do more, but am spending short bursts of time on thre computer. Please bear with me.
Evil or Very Mad Crying or Very sad

 


#15:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 1:53 pm


Poor Carolyn, sends lots of huggles and hopes the nasty sinuses unclog soon. sounds typical doctor to me!

 


#16:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 2:16 pm


Poor Carolyn. Headaches can be such awful things, especially lingering ones. I hope it goes soon, and please don't feel obliged to post any more until you're up to it.

 


#17:  Author: AlexLocation: Home again PostPosted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 2:38 pm


Headaches are indeed horrible, but I'm sure that writing more is a sure fire cure.....


Well, I'm convinced anyway.

Although obviously I don't want more drabble at the expense of your recovery.

 


#18:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 3:36 pm


Carolyn - I've just read this in the archives - I'm so glad you decided to expand on the AD, it is, as others have said, very powerful and moving, and it all seems so realistic too.
I'm glad that Con is safely married, at the beginning I had visions of her having to call off her proposed wedding to stay home and look after Jo.
I hope you feel better soon - the last time I went to the doctor's I walked in, told the receptionist what was wrong and asked her to get a doctor to write a prescription - thus saving everyones time.

 


#19:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 6:39 pm


Not brilliantly happy with this. The next bit will be more difficult as it moves the story towards the climax so will not be written until tomorrow or Friday when hopefully I will be better.


An Interlude

Dear Con, Felicity, Cecil and Phil,
I haven’t got a lot of time and so I’m writing to you all at once. I will send the letter to you Con, and hope that it’s not too long until you see the others. I don’t know how long it will take for this letter to get to you, the mail here is a little unreliable to say the least.
Oh, girls, this place is so different to anything we have been used to. The clinic itself is very basic, but clean, and with running water. There are wards for men and women and children’s wards. We have an operating theatre and a dispensary, but most of our work is done either in the out patients clinic here or in the villages. We only have the most rudimentary of drugs and yet make such a difference to the peoples lives. The simplest operation to remove a growth, mend a broken bone that has healed wrong or remove cataracts can have a huge effect. Even dental work is carried out here, so I’m having to overcome our family’s fear of the dentist as I often find myself assisting in those operations.
Most of my particular job is not based in the clinic but in the villages along the river. Together with another doctor and a nurse and a teacher we go to the villages and hold clinics there. Sometimes we will bring someone back to the main clinic, but more often than not we just get on with what needs doing there and then. I think I finally learnt what faith is when I assisted at my first tabletop operation; I don’t think I’ve ever prayed so hard. Another facet of my work is to work with the teacher in showing the women here especially, but all those who will learn how they can deal with accidents, minor illnesses and even more serious things with the resources they have. We also teach nutrition and hygiene. It is such a challenge teaching hygiene to people who don’t have a tap in the village, never mind the house. The best thing though is that the whole ethos here is to work with people where they are, in their own culture and not try to impose ours onto them. From what the elder nuns tell me that has been quiet a change for them. It is just what I’ve trained to do though.
The convent is attached to the clinic and school and we keep to different hours according to the work we are doing. All the sisters here are working sisters, and we are supported by a link with one of the European houses, which is mainly contemplative. We all attend the early office and then keep the offices during the day as best we can, depending on our circumstances. Everyone who is here also attends compline. Occasionally when we have been to some of the furthest villages we are not back until well into the night.
Sister Director, or rather Sister Joan whom Papa met is in overall charge of the complex, clinic and school as well as being a nurse and one of the most efficient one’s I have seen. She makes Matey look untidy and disorganised, can you imagine that. She has been here most of her conventual life, returning to Europe for Furlough every so often. She appears to be everywhere and at first I could swear she had a double the number of times I seemed to see her in different places. Above all she is kind though. I had dreadful jet lag when I arrived and fell asleep during mass that first evening. I awoke with a jolt when the bell rang as the host was elevated and saw her smiling at me, boy was I worried, but as we were leaving the chapel she grabbed me and Sister Bernadette and got Sister Bernadette to show me straight to my bed and bring me a snack. I was so grateful I almost cried, but she just laughed. From what the others tell me that is typical of her.
I am glad now that this opportunity has come for me. I could have put off taking my vows and spent a little longer with you, but as we spoke about at Len’s funeral it was time to make a new start, and this is a whole new life for me. I miss Len, as my triplet she was almost like part of me, but I miss Con almost the same now, and the rest of you so much. This posting was unexpected, but has helped me to see that life is so valuable and there is so much to do. I did wonder again and again if by staying in the convent I was trying to run away from my pain and grief, and if I was being selfish in not being there to share yours, but now, well I think that I couldn’t do anything else. I needed to draw a line and start afresh and I couldn’t do that by putting off the very act of drawing the line. Con, you spoke of a new adventure for us both, along with Len starting the greatest adventure of them all, I didn’t realise at the time just how great an adventure I would be starting.
I need to finish this now, it’s taken me far more time that I really have to spare so I had better go or I’ll be late for dinner, and dinner is important! Hope that you are all keeping well, especially you Con.
Lots of love,
Margot

(aka Sister Mary Margaret)

The three younger girls handed the letter back to Con and looked quizicaly at each other. Con handed round the biscuits she had made when Miss Annersley agreed to her sisters coming to tea and sat down with a cup of tea befor eloking round atb her sisters and saying, “Margot appears to be having quite an adventure doesn’t she?”
Felicity grinned, “Yes, but what does she mean by that last comment?”
“That she hopes we are well, what else could she mean?” replied Con with a grin.
“Constance Mary Maynard, you tell us what she means or else I’ll,” began Cecil only to be interrupted by Con.
“Maynard, I’ll thank you to get my name right. I have been married for 11 months now!”
“That doesn’t answer our question though. Why is Margot especially concerned about you Con?” This from Phil.
Con looked around, a smile on her face, “Well, the truth is,” she stopped, enjoying tantalisig the three who were now on the edge of their seats, “Cecil put that cup down before you drop it.” Cecil did as she was bid and Con carried on, “I’m going to have a baby, expected in April. I told Margot when she made her vows and Papa knows, but no-one else yet so please don’t talk about it. Mama hasn’t been told, Ian and I are going for tea at weekend and will tell her then.”
The reaction of the three girls was all that Con had expected, and after receiving their congratulations and showing them the little things she had begun knitting she sent them back to school. Felicity gave her a hug as they left and whispered, “I’m so glad for you, but it will be all right won’t it. I mean with Len and everything?”
“Don’t be such a goop. Of course everything will be fine.”
“And Mama?”
“Don’t worry, Papa say’s she just needs a little time.”
The two sisters hugged once more and Felicity went back to school happy.

 


#20:  Author: ChloëLocation: London: when away from home planet! PostPosted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 6:43 pm


*applauds*

Thanks Carolyn Very Happy

 


#21:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans PostPosted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 6:49 pm


It's lovely. I like hearing how Margot is facing up to such a change in her lifestyle (and the comment about dentists ROFL )

Now Con just has to tell Joey Confused

 


#22:  Author: NicciLocation: UK PostPosted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 9:32 pm


Thank you so much for posting more. I hope you're feeling better now. lots of huggles coming your way!
I loved the comparison to Matey!

And I liked the scene with Felicity, I think she could be a strong support for everyone, she has plenty of understanding, how old is she now?

 


#23:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 9:42 pm


That was great. Margot is settled in her work and Con seems to be a lot stronger on now than she was before. I think, however Joey reacts, Con has the strength and support within her own marriage to cope.

Now we wait for the BIG episode when Joey is told. Glad you feel better, but take care of yourself.

 


#24:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Wed Jan 21, 2004 11:23 pm


Thanks for that Carolyn. Look after yourself.

 


#25:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 1:18 am


PatMac wrote:
Now we wait for the BIG episode when Joey is told.


And very explosive, I expect! Wonderful part, Carolyn! I'm so glad Felicity, Cecil and Phil were so lovely!

 


#26:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 1:25 am


Thank you Carolyn - if I had written that I would have been very happy with it. I hope you are feeling better now.

 


#27:  Author: RachelLocation: Plotting in my lair; sometimes in Hampshire, England, UK, Europe, Earth, Milky Way, Universe PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 1:34 am


Really looking forward to the rest of this Carolyn!

Really, really looking forward to it!

 


#28:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 1:53 am


*suggests we chant*

 


#29:  Author: RachelLocation: Plotting in my lair; sometimes in Hampshire, England, UK, Europe, Earth, Milky Way, Universe PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 1:55 am


Ummmmmmmm, what tune are you using KB?

 


#30:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 1:59 am


Well, it was meant to be "Here We Go Round The Mulberry Bush"... Embarassed Embarassed Embarassed

 


#31:  Author: RachelLocation: Plotting in my lair; sometimes in Hampshire, England, UK, Europe, Earth, Milky Way, Universe PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 2:05 am


That'll be the problem then - I was using "Bob the Builder Theme Tune".





That tune has been stuck in my head since Saturday night's Karaoke party where I gave a rousing rendition of aforementioned song, swiftly followed by *my* version of "Big Spender" a la Shirley Bassey, complete with the hips!

 


#32:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 2:09 am


Yes, that might do it!

 


#33:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 1:14 pm


At least you know what's going to happen Rachel.

The next part isn't written yet, but will be posted sometime this evening, UK time. Be Prepared. Crying or Very sad

 


#34:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 1:16 pm


Thank you Carolyn!!! *big huggles* Hope you feel better soon!!
*slightly aprehensive about the next bit!!!*

 


#35:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 2:41 pm


Thank you Carolyn, that was a wonderful description of Margot's work, I can just imagine her ending up in a place like that, and having those feelings.

But I am still worried about how Joey is going to take Con's news.

 


#36:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 2:53 pm


Sending a big huggle, Carolyn, and hoping that your sinus trouble is much better. This is terrific, and I'm hoping for lots more very, very soon.

 


#37:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 2:56 pm


I know we shouldn't post twice in a row, but I can't help feeling a lurking sense of dread about Jo. She'll either ignore Con's great news, or try to take over the baby, and pretend that it's Len as a newborn. A pain, either way.

 


#38:  Author: ChloëLocation: London: when away from home planet! PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 6:40 pm


I can't wait for more Carolyn! Smile

 


#39:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 7:33 pm


Two days later, on the Friday, Con was proofreading a copy of her latest article when she heard a knock at the door. Dropping her pen in annoyance at the disturbance she went to answer it and to her surprise found her mother on the doorstep.
“Mama, what a surprise, do come in and sit down. I was just proofing this article.”
“That’s good, I always put proofing off to the last minute.”
“I remember,” laughed Con thinking back to her childhood when she and her siblings had been fascinated by the long strips of Joey’s proofs. “You always seemed in a panic over them.” She led Joey to the chair by the fire and took her mother’s wraps.
“I’ll get a warm drink shall I, you feel ever so cold, did you walk all the way?”
“That would be lovely. I woke up this morning and decided that it was so long since I had seen my girls, so I engineered a walk at the same time as the school, saw the younger ones and then came on here.”
“It’s not that long, less than a week since your new girls party. You don’t normally see us all more than that, especially with Felicity and the others at school.”
“I know, but I do miss you all.”
Con gave Joey a hug as she passed by on the way into the kitchen, feeling that this admission was a huge step. Unfortunately for all concerned she missed the comment that followed this as she left the room.
“I miss my triplets more than ever now you’ve all grown up and disappeared.”
Con left the door open as she went into the kitchen. As she filled the kettle and laid a tray with cups, saucers, she kept up a steady flow of conversation, telling Joey about the visit the girls had made the day before, although omitting the reason for the gathering. She could hear Joey moving around and although her mother didn’t reply to her conversation she kept it up whilst laying out the biscuits she had baked the day before.

Con’s heart skipped a beat when she heard a cry form Joey, a strangled gasp, and then even as she moved to go and see what had happened she heard the door open and then slam as the wind caught it. Con ran to the door and caught sight of Joey running across the Platz, her cloak half on and half trailing behind her blowing out with every gust of wind. The sight galvanised Con and grabbing her own coat she ran down the path behind Joey, shouting out to her as she did. This was to no avail, Joey appeared not to have heard her and continued in her headlong flight. Con reached a corner in the path and pulled up short, gasping for breath. Joey was nowhere in sight and there were numerous tiny paths leading to different parts of the Platz and woods as well as other hamlets nearby. Con realised that it was futile for her to carry on and went back home, her mind racing with worry and wonder as to what had prompted her mother’s actions.

 


#40:  Author: PatLocation: Doncaster PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 8:18 pm


Has she seen something about Len or something about Con's pregnancy Question Exclamation

 


#41:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 8:20 pm


Wow Carolyn - please don't leave it there - not with so many questions to be answered - Con is going to be ok isn't she?

 


#42:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 8:38 pm


Carolyn, please don't leave us hanging like this!!!!

 


#43:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 10:59 pm


Crying or Very sad I'm worried now, Joey's going to be ok running off on her own, right? I wonder what set her off. Maybe she saw the letter from Margot and worked out about Con's pregnancy...

*clutches edge of seat*

 


#44:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 11:34 pm


Oh no, what's happened now? Please let Con come through all this okay.

 


#45:  Author: NicciLocation: UK PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 11:42 pm


thanks for the latest carolyn.
Joey can't be permitted to carry on in this state for much longer, she needs serious help. *feeling very sorry for everyone*

 


#46:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 11:42 pm


Carolyn, this is so good - please don't make us wait too long for the next bit!!

 


#47:  Author: ChloëLocation: London: when away from home planet! PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 11:44 pm


Carolyn what on earth sent Joey off like that?

 


#48:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Jan 22, 2004 11:50 pm


Ellie wrote:
Wow Carolyn - please don't leave it there - not with so many questions to be answered - Con is going to be ok isn't she?


My first thoughts are as Ellie! All I did was go off and deal with RL for 3 hours and I come back to this. I'm just glad Con had the sense to go back home!

don;t leave it there pleeeeeeaaaaase!

 


#49:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 12:10 am


*tumbles off of edge of seat!!!*

 


#50:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 12:11 am


Vikki wrote:
*tumbles off of edge of seat!!!*


Oops! Hope you didn't hurt yourself, Vikki?

 


#51:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 12:12 am


You need to hold on tighter Vicki! That or have a pile of cushions ready

 


#52:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 12:34 am


well, my teddy broke my fall! Wink

 


#53:  Author: RachelLocation: Plotting in my lair; sometimes in Hampshire, England, UK, Europe, Earth, Milky Way, Universe PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 12:43 am


Did somebody mention lunch?????

Wink

 


#54:  Author: AlexLocation: Home again PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 1:05 am


No I don't think so, Rachel.


Maybe Joey fell off the shelf. No that was Jack, wasn't it Wink

 


#55:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 3:32 am


Oh, goodness! Carolyn, it's very unkind of you to leave is hanging like this!

 


#56:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 9:37 am


Sorry, but I thought you would want the next bit of holocaust.
More today as I'm home all day on a Friday (as opposed to having a sick day like the rest of the week!) and it's Rachels turn next on Holocaust.

 


#57:  Author: PatLocation: Doncaster PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 10:17 am


In that case you'll be able to post plenty more here, won't you Question Exclamation Very Happy

 


#58:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 11:34 am


Con raced into the chalet and went straight to the telephone on the table, she was picked up the receiver and dialled the number for the San.
“Dr Maynard please, it’s Con,” whilst she waited to be put through to her father’s office, praying he would be there, her eyes scanned the room, looking for a clue as to what could have sent Joey dashing off as she did.
“Papa, oh, I’m so glad you are there, it’s mama…. No, she’s not here, not now. I don’t know where she is. She came here and then dashed away as I was making a drink. I followed but lost sight of her on the path through the pines, I’m scared Papa. I think she might have found out about the baby…no I didn’t tell her, but something sent her off like that and she could have seen my knitting, or a letter from Margot, or even my ante-natal appointment card. That’s here next to the phone. Papa…” Con began sobbing and Jack spoke very calmly, much more than he felt in order to reassure her. Feeling worried he kept talking calmly whilst writing a message to Ian to go home and passing it to his secretary. That able lady delivered it as quickly as possible and came back to report that Ian had left just as Jack was putting the phone down.
“Tell Greaves to take charge for the rest of the day, Hamilton and I will be away. Personal affairs, I’ll explain to him when we come back. I’m off to the school now, will you please ring Miss Annersley and ask her to be waiting for me, and to have Felicity ready to leave but not in the study.”

Jack left at a trot; secure in the trust he had in his staff. He drove to the school at breakneck sped scaring a line of girls as he pulled up outside the main door in a cloud of dust, spinning the car round ready to leave again. He went inside and took the stairs to the study two at a time.
“Hilda, I need Felicity and Gaundez.”
“That’s an odd combination. Sit down and tell me what has happened.”
Jack sank into a chair and took the small measure of brandy she was pouring for him.
“Jo has disappeared. She went to Con’s about an hour ago and left as Con was making a drink. Con says she was running like a cat out of hell, excuse the language, and we think it may be because she has found out that Con is pregnant. Con is worried sick and I don’t want her left alone. That is why I want Felicity, to be with Con.”
“Is she alone now?”
“No, I sent Ian home, but I need him to come and help me search. That is also why I want Gaundez, and any other men he can finds to help.”
“Felicity has been told to get her wraps and wait by the main door for you, she should be there soon. Is there anything we can do?”
“Send Gaundez off on the downside of the Platz, and tell him to take anyone else who will help. Ian and I will search upwards. Could you ring round our friends here and see if anyone has seen her since she left Con’s, and if any of the men are at home ask them to come and help. Tell everyone who searches to meet back at Freudesheim at 15:00 so we can check where we have searched, but pray we find her before then.”
Hilda nodded and as Jack left the room in search of Felicity she picked up the telephone and began the first of many calls.

 


#59:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 11:43 am


Thank you Carolyn, I really hope that Con doesn't suffer through any of this.
I'm wondering, if maybe, in the end, whatever gave Joey such a shock might do her some good, forcing her to face up to things.
Assuming she's found safe and well of course.

 


#60:  Author: PatLocation: Doncaster PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 12:29 pm


Thank you Carolyn. Very Happy That was nice and prompt Exclamation Very Happy

 


#61:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 12:49 pm


Oh, golly! *waits anxiously*

 


#62:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 1:12 pm


Thanks Carolyn, hope Joey isn't going to come to any harm.

 


#63:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 1:38 pm


By the end of the day the searchers were becoming increasingly worried. All the slopes down from the Platz had been thoroughly searched and they were now concentrating on the slopes leading up to the higher shelves. The darkness was already falling, and with it the temperature and still Joey was nowhere to be seen. This had now become a major search and all the able bodied men on the Platz who were not urgently needed elsewhere were out in force with whistles, searchlights, ropes and first aid kits. Jack had been advised to remain at home when the initial search had failed, but after an hour of pacing he left to join the searchers in their increasingly futile hunt for his wife.

 


#64:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 2:59 pm


Thank you Carolyn, not helping me not worry about Joey though... or Con for that matter.

Confused Confused Confused
*worries*

 


#65:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 3:09 pm


Hoping its a soft landing at the bottom of this steep and scary cliff!

 


#66:  Author: AlexLocation: Home again PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 3:14 pm


Wow, Carolyn, very suspenseful. More soon, I hope.

*Gets in first with chant*

 


#67:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 6:03 pm


Thanks Carolyn, this could turn into a real cliff hanger.

 


#68:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 8:08 pm


Felicity and Con had spent the afternoon together. Felicity had been told what had happened by Jack as he drove her over to Con and Ian’s chalet and had asked her to try and stop Con from brooding on the matter and worrying. Felicity had bustled around Con, making lunch and suggesting places that Joey could be, and for a while this worked as the two girls recalled some of their mother’s more hair raising adventures, but as the afternoon wore on their conversation wore thin and then lapsed altogether. Felicity casting around for another topic finally suggested that Con show her how to bake the special bread that she was so fond of. Con saw this for what it was, an attempt to get her doing something to stop her thinking, but knowing that it would benefit them both agreed and the two girls retired to the kitchen.

By the time they had finished it was dark, but it was not until they came back into the living room and Con saw that it necessary to switch in the lights and draw the curtains that they realised how late it was. Con’s face tightened as she went about these tasks and Felicity watching knew why. The nights were still well below freezing and with so little light it was becoming less and less likely that Joey would be found safe and well. Felicity went to the small gramophone that stood to one side of the fire, next to Ian’s big chair and selected a piece of quiet music and then drawing close togehter the two girls sat down together in the big chair to wait for news. They had gone past talking now, way past trying to take their minds off events; all either of them was able to do was hold on to the other unspeaking and offer prayers more akin to silent pleading groans.

 


#69:  Author: ChloëLocation: London: when away from home planet! PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 8:09 pm


Yay thank you Carolyn, but i'd like soem more now please!

 


#70:  Author: PatLocation: Doncaster PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 8:11 pm


Me too, please, when you can!

 


#71:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 8:11 pm


Oh gosh where is Joey, I'm actually quite worried about her!!

 


#72:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 8:24 pm


*worries more*
Confused Confused Confused Confused Confused

Poor Con and Felicity sitting there waiting and poor Jack who must be frantic by now! I do hope Joey's alright and they manage to help her Crying or Very sad

 


#73:  Author: ChelseaLocation: Your Imagination PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 8:54 pm


Sarah_K wrote:
*worries more*
Confused Confused Confused Confused Confused

Poor Con and Felicity sitting there waiting and poor Jack who must be frantic by now! I do hope Joey's alright and they manage to help her Crying or Very sad


And poor us waiting for more story!

 


#74:  Author: catherineLocation: York PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 9:30 pm


Feeling very worried about Joey and her family. What has happened, Carolyn? Where is she?

Please let us have some more soon!

 


#75:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 9:30 pm


Carolyn, please post more soon - this is so good and the characters so well drawn. Really don't want anything nasty to happen to Joey - perhaps the shock will jolt her to reality and she'll be found safe and well. Crying or Very sad

 


#76:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 9:37 pm


Carolyn *wails* this can't be good for Con and is too much responsibility for Felicity.

Don't leave it there for long, please!

 


#77:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 9:41 pm


Sorry about the short posts.


Jack, Ian and the other men searched through the evening. Jack was unheeding of the rapidly dropping temperature or the first flakes of snow falling. His only thought was to find Joey. The search had spread out and the upper slopes and shelves were now being searched as well as the pines and the paths that led round the other side of the mountain. Jack knew only too well that if Joey was not found soon her chances were slim in the extreme and yet he refused to give in. Striding along, examining every side path and every nook and cranny he passed Jack drew ahead of the other searchers without realising. He was blowing his whistle at regular intervals and using his searchlight to make huge arcs, lighting up the tops of the looming pines, but did not realise that the whistles he was hearing in reply were growing fainter, nor that it was along time since he had seen any other search light. He moved through the trees like a man possessed, his feet finding firm footing by instinct, and his eyes never ceasing to roam in their relentless quest.

He had been quite alone for over an hour when he stumbled over a root sticking out in the path. Cursing, he rose, and as he did noticed a cleft under the tree, a hole in the bank where floods the previous spring had swept away half the bank, leaving the tree perched, it’s roots spread out, and room under them for shelter. As he had done countless time that day already he swung his torch into the hole. There was a bundle there, a shivering, and wet, dishevelled bundle. Joey. Jack carefully bent and tried to rouse her, to no avail, he could see that she was alive, and appeared conscious, but was too deep in her fear to realise that he was there. Kneeling next to the cleft he slowly put his arms under her body and slowly pulled her out. Laying her across his lap he swiftly looked her over, tears falling as he saw the bruises sustained in her flight, and then rose, his wife in his arms and looked around.

The first flakes of snow he had failed to notice earlier were now falling faster, it would have made a beautiful sight any other night, but to Jack tonight it was an appalling sight. He blew his whistle and listened carefully. Nothing. He blew again, a series of short sharp blasts. There was still no response. The snow was now beginning to restrict vision and Jack felt an icy fear in the pit of his stomach. Had he found Joey only for the two of them to perish together in a blizzard? He moved back onto the path and head down, Joey cradled close to him he set off, moving upwards hoping to reach some form of shelter.

 


#78:  Author: PatLocation: Doncaster PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 9:45 pm


Please let them be found, Carolyn! You can't let them die in a blizzard! Exclamation This isn't holocaust, remember! Exclamation

 


#79:  Author: ChelseaLocation: Your Imagination PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 10:10 pm


Please, please, please do not let them freeze. Please.

Oh, and thanks for the story, might we have some more when you are ready.

 


#80:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 10:27 pm


Oh, Carolyn! Now we have both of them to worry about!

*thinks, quickly. How can I persuade her to post more tonight? I know!*

Carolyn, *pitifully* My weak heart won't take the waiting!

*Appeal to her better nature as a first try, can always come back later and chant if it doesn't work*

 


#81:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 11:54 pm


Oh no, the situation is even worse now. *Hopes Carolyn hasn't gone to bed yet*

 


#82:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Fri Jan 23, 2004 11:54 pm


AArrggghhhh no please let them be alright!!

I'm going to spend the night worried now

 


#83:  Author: ChloëLocation: London: when away from home planet! PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 12:00 am


Carolyn tis mean to leave it there!

 


#84:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 12:02 am


I'm still up, and still writing. Wether or not I post again depends on how the bunnies behave. They are telling the story in singke sentences and then bursting into tears, Crying or Very sad

 


#85:  Author: PatLocation: Doncaster PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 12:06 am


That sounds very very ominous! Sad Please post some more anyway!

 


#86:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 12:10 am


Carolyn!!! That is truly, truly cruel and nasty!!

Congratulations Laughing

More story when you're ready!

 


#87:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 12:39 am


Happy to please you Lesley. Hope this will please you also!


Jack blessed his guardian angel when out of the darkness a shape loomed that soon appeared to be a hut. Lowering Joey to the ground he knocked at the door, and receiving no reply put his shoulder to it and broke in. He carried Joey into the single room and took stock. This must be a herdsman’s hut, shut for the winter, there was a fireplace and a little wood, an iron kettle, a couple of wooden stools and nothing else.

Jack’s first task was to start a fire in the grate. Then he emptied his rucksack and took the small hip flask and rubbed some of its contents against Joey’s lips, pouring a small quantity into her mouth. This had the desired effect and she roused enough to spit it out, “Ergh, I hate that stuff,” she complained and Jack smiled, there was still a spark of the old Joey left. Jack rubbed her hands and then removed her damp cloak and footwear, wrapping her tightly in his scarf and jumper. Joey was silent during this treatment and still shivering. Jack pulled her close to him and sat in front of the fire, cradling her in his arms. They sat together warming as the fire began to blaze. Jack felt Joey snuggling closer and wrapped his arms more tightly around her. They sat staring into the flames when Jack felt rather than heard Joey begin to weep. He held her tight and let the tears flow unchecked for a while, hoping that the release would help. He was bent close and heard her catch her breath as she sobbed, “My Con, not Con. Len, my triplets, all gone, all gone.”
Jack turned her slightly so they could look at each other’s faces as he spoke with a calm authority that belied his quaking fear, “Joey, Con is well and will continue to be so. Margot is in Peru and we should be proud of all she is doing. Len is safe and will never again feel pain.”
“My poor Len. I miss her so much. Why Len, Jack, why Len?”
Jack murmured to her, comforting words, but did not try to stop her talking, this was the best thing for her he thought.
“I never knew you know, never knew about the baby.”
“No, none of us did. I’m not even sure that Len and Reg themselves knew.”
“I hope they did. It would have been something. Len always planned a large family, and now she never will,” Joey began sobbing quietly again, and Jack held her close, wiping her tears gently with his handkerchief.
“I’m so scared for Con.”
“What happened today?”
“She’s pregnant isn’t she? I saw the card.”
“Yes, but she’s doing well, why did you run like that?”
“I don’t know. It was Len. Discovering that Con was pregnant made me think about Len, and I couldn’t stop thinking about her, and I didn’t want her to be dead and, and,” Joey trailed off, and shivered again, despite the heat from the fire and Jack.
Jack finished the sentence, “So you fled, hoping that you could flee from your grief.”
“But I couldn’t,” the tears continued to flow softly as Joey lowered her voice and spoke for the first time of the grief and pain that had been on her heart since that fateful November day when the landslide had enveloped the car that Reg and Len were travelling in and killed Reg outright, and Len two days later, time during which the doctors caring for her could do nothing except discover her early pregnancy.
Jack held onto her as she spoke, his tears mingling with hers, their shared grief bringing back the closeness they had always shared.

Eventually Joey fell asleep and Jack laid her down, using his rucksack as a pillow. He stoked the fire and covered her as well as he could, laying close to keep her warm through the night. He was worried about the flush in her cheeks, and the faint rasp that had appeared in her breathing, but his rucksack contained only a basic first aid kit. He had managed to get some aspirin down her when they arrived at the hut, and in his anxiety woke her during the night to ensure another dose. Her irritation at this reassured him somewhat, but as dawn approached he noticed that her temperature was rising once more. Jack knew that she had taken a turn for the worse and the relief he had felt as they wept together the previous night now disappeared in his concern for her health.

 


#88:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 12:43 am


*sobs quietly*
So THAT's what happened to Len!! Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad

Maybe Joey will begin to come to terms now?

Thank you Carolyn!! Do we get anymore?

 


#89:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 12:45 am


Yes, but not tonight.

 


#90:  Author: Lisa_TLocation: Belfast PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 12:52 am


PatMac!!! Since your emotional blackmail tactics worked so well last time, come back and give it another try...

Carolyn, I suppose you have to sleep- but not too long? Please pretty pretty pretty please? Here's birthday cake and coffee for you when you give us more!!!

 


#91:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 1:06 am


Crying or Very sad *sobs* Crying or Very sad

That explains why she reacted so violently to Con's pregnancy. It was good to see Joey talking even if it was to reveal such a sad story. Please don't let her die now Confused
*prays that Jack's guardian angel is still watching*

 


#92:  Author: ChelseaLocation: Your Imagination PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 1:37 am


You MAY NOT let them die. If they do, Con will blame herself since Joey ran out when she figured out that Con was pregnant. Pleaes don't do it.

 


#93:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 1:48 am


Carolyn, that was so moving, I'm glad they found shelter for the night, but it would be so cruel now if Joey died when she was finally coming to express her grief.

 


#94:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 3:34 am


Oh, Carolyn! I’m not sure whether to be relieved that Joey’s finally beginning to accept Len’s death or worried about the current situation! Please resolve things happily. (At least in the end)

***
BTW, re/ the unarchived book posts, it’s OK. (Liss locked the Stars thread before I could say so.) Instead of continuing on the Amelia P thread, I will just nag Lisa_T for some more of her Emersons at the CS drabble. (Wonder what she’d do if I started a thread for it under Cookies & Drabbles?)

 


#95:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 3:46 am


Kathy, have just started that thread for you, complete with link, so nag away!!

 


#96:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 4:31 am


Thank you, Vikki!

*goes off to nag*

ETA encourage? exhort? Whatever it takes....

 


#97:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 7:25 am


*also sobbing* So is Jo going to be seriously ill?

 


#98:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 3:53 pm


Once it was light Jack was able to see that the snow had stopped and the day was bitterly cold, but bright and clear. There was a frosty breeze and the snow that had fallen overnight had a satisfying crunch under it. Jack knew that there would be search parties out within the hour and that there best chance now was to remain where they were and make themselves as conspicuous as possible. He gave a short blast on his whistle, hardly expecting an answer, and was not surprised to receive none. Jack went back inside the hut and built the fire up as much as possible, breaking up the stools to do so and then went to check that the smoke was rising visibly from the chimney. Assured of this he collected some snow in the box containing his first aid kit and returning to the fire, set it to melt. Then he turned back to Joey. His heart sank when he found that she was not rousing properly, her temperature still way too high and an unnatural flush spreading across her cheeks whilst her lips remained almost white. Jack gave her the rest of the aspirin, crushed into a little tepid water and then used some of the water to sponge her face with his handkerchief. All he could do now was to wait and to try and keep Joey sipping the water.



Sorry it's such a small bit, but a) D needed the computer to do his tax returns and b)I was tidying the kids stiff and c) getting the placer ready for my parents who have just arrived.
This evening if possible!

 


#99:  Author: NicciLocation: UK PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 4:30 pm


Oh thankyou Carolyn, I've just caught up. This is wonderful, but very very sad. I hope you don't have too much more suffering in store for the Maynards. Crying or Very sad

 


#100:  Author: RebeccaLocation: Kendal/Oxford PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 4:39 pm


Thank you Carolyn.

More when you can, please!

 


#101:  Author: PatLocation: Doncaster PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 4:46 pm


No wonder your bunnies were crying Carolyn. Hope you have a good day with your parents. More tonight if possible please?

 


#102:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 6:46 pm


I was wondering whether Len had been together with Reg in this drabble, and now I know why he hasn't featured. And poor Con and Felicity. They'll have to spend the entire night not knowing the whereabouts of either parent.

 


#103:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 6:57 pm


Carolyn that was so moving, I hope Joey is not that unwell, and that she hasn't upset Con and Felicity either!

 


#104:  Author: GremblesLocation: Norwich PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 7:04 pm


Oooooooooooo I knew that this would be good and so I saved it as my reward for finishing my essay. Mike now wants to know what has gone so horribly wrong with my essay to explain my crying.

Crying or Very sad

More please.
Soon please

 


#105:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 7:18 pm


I missed this earlier as I went to bed after my pleading last night and am only accessing in short bursts as a periodic reward for fighting numbers all day! Somehow I didn't get to this till now.

Poor Len and Reg. Sad Poor Joey and Jack. Crying or Very sad Poor Con and Felicity. Crying or Very sad Poor us waiting for RL to release Carolyn again. HelpMe

I hope you had a good day with your parents, Carolyn and that the bunnies are able to stop crying and inspire more.

 


#106:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 7:37 pm


Oh my gosh! I just had a big catch up (and was grateful I had left it till now, in the hope of not having quite so much of the suspense.... but no!) and this is so good, Carolyn, but a) Poor poor Con and Felicity! b) Poor the rest of the Maynards who may soon be orphans, whom everyone else seems to have forgotten about and c) Poor jack!

 


#107:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 8:49 pm


Thank you Carolyn - that was so sad Crying or Very sad . Really hope that Jack and Joey will be found and that Joey will recover.

 


#108:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 9:15 pm


*hopes that Carolyn has a break from RL soon*

 


#109:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 10:46 pm


Thank you Carolyn!!!
*produces two penn'orth of patience*

 


#110:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 10:57 pm


It was around two hours later that Jack thought he heard a whistle. Dashing to the door he sounded his own, and was rewarded with the sound of a long blast and then a shout. He gave another long blast himself and then shouted, “Over here, quickly.” Watching the trees he was rewarded within moments by the sight of Phil Greaves and Eugene Courvoisier striding down the path towards him. Waving at them he ran back inside to Joey and whispered to her, “It will be fine now my dear, they are here and we have you at the san before long.” The two doctors entered the hut and bent with Jack to assess Joey. Jack gave them a compacted version of events, telling how and when he had found her and what he had been able to do since. Of the reason for her flight and their subsequent conversation he said nothing beyond telling his colleagues that she had been coherent the previous night for a while. It did not take the two long to see that nothing could be done there and Phil sent Eugene to call the rest of the rescue party.

Within a further few hours Joey was at the san, a fluid drip attached to one arm and another showing marks where various injections had been administered. Her long dark hair had been brushed and tied, her face washed and the cuts and bruises she had sustained during her flight had all been tended. Jack stood next to the bed holding her hand and gently stroked her cheek. The rasp in her breath was still evident despite the drugs and the improvement in her surroundings. She had roused slightly during the journey but had lapsed into unconsciousness as the arrived at the San and had not regained it since. He was still stood there when the door opened and all the Maynard girls walked in, supported by Ian.

The two women had still been sat together on the chair when Ian had returned to the chalet at 22:30 the previous night. Unwilling to tell then that Jack was now missing he prevaricated, telling them that Joey had not been found but that some were continuing to search despite the snow. They has accepted this, not knowing that the snow had made further searching impossible and the search had been called off until dawn. Ian had looked at the pair and asked Con to prepare them all some cocoa whilst he took his wet things off. This had the effect he desired of rousing the pair, and before long they were all sat in front of the fire whilst Ian told them the little he knew.
“So, that is what is happening,” he concluded, “Now, Con dearest, I can’t offer you anything to help, not during pregnancy, but it is important for the baby, for you, and for your family that you try to sleep. Felicity will run you a warm bath and then I would like you to go to bed, both of you. Yes, I know that you think sleep will be impossible, but you must try.”
This was carried out, and an hour later all three were in bed. None of them slept well, and Ian seeking a drink at dawn realised that they were all awake and allowed the two women to rise and dress. Thus it was when the telephone rang a little while later to alert them to the rescue they were all ready to leave. Their first port of call was the school. There they discovered Miss Annersley awake and brought her up to date with events. She known that Jack was missing as well when the search ceased the night before, but had not heard further news since the search part had reconvened that morning. Ian, Con and Felicity now told her of the rescue and Con requested that Cecil and Phil be brought to the study so that she could tell them what had happened. This done, Ian packed them all into his car, and they sped to the San with some trepidation.

Jack looked up as they entered the room, and went to envelop his girls in a huge hug.
“How is mama?” queried Cecil.
“Poorly, very poorly,” was all Jack could reply, his voice breaking as he did. Con slipped her arm around him and Felicity put her arms around each of the younger girls as they went and stood either side of the bed. It seemed an age that they stood there, but was in reality only a few minutes, then Ian brought chairs for Con and Jack and Felicity shepherded Cecil and Phil out of the room to the corridor where Miss Annersley was waiting for them. She looked at Felicity keenly, but noticing a strength in her face that she had previously been unaware of, said nothing when that young lady turned and went back into the room.

Miss Annersley then gave all her mind to comforting the younger girls who were just realising how ill their mother seemed. She led them through the hospital to the Matron’s room, where she spoke quietly to Helen Greaves who turned a sympathetic look on the girls she had seen born, grow, and in Phil’s case had nursed through polio.
“Make yourselves as comfortable as you can here, I’ll have some coffee and rolls sent into you soon and we will bring you any news we can.”
“Auntie Helen, why can’t we stay with mother, we know to be quiet?” asked Cecil, who was worried that they were being kept away so that the worst could be hidden from them.
“It is not good to have too many people in a sick room, if anything needs to be done quickly it makes it harder for the doctors to respond and patients are aware of people around even if they are unconscious. Your mother needs to be very calm and quiet in order for the medicine to work so it is best all round if you are here. It also means that you can talk and ask questions, which you couldn’t if you were in the room. Now, do you have any questions at the moment?”
“Why does she have that tube in her arms?” asked Phil.
“ That gives her fluid to replace what she has lost through perspiration and through not being able to drink.”
“Why does she have one up her nose then?” added Cecil.
“That is giving her oxygen to make it easier for her to breath, relieving some of the strain on her heart and lungs. That will give them chance to respond to the medicine.”
The girls took this in and then Phil asked the question closest to their hearts, and the one Helen had been dreading.
“What is wrong with her, is she going to die?”
Helen uttered a voiceless prayer for help before answering truthfully, knowing that the Maynards had never hidden the truth from their children nor lied to them.
“She is very poorly; the exposure has triggered some problems with her chest, which has always been weak. We think she has pneumonia and she is also suffering from the cold and lack of drink throughout yesterday and last night. She is getting the best possible medicine and care. At the moment we don’t know what will happen, all we can do is wait, and pray.”
Helen left after this conversation, leaving the girls in Miss Annersley’s care for the rest of the morning. She returned at lunchtime with some soup and insisted it was all finished before taking them to see Joey once more whilst Miss Annersley rang the school and arranged for Miss Wilmot to take charge for the rest of the day and possibly the next. Then they resumed their vigil in her office for the rest of the day before Miss Annersley insisted on taking them back to school for the night after one last brief peep at their mother. They returned not to their dormitories, but to the Heads own flat where they discovered Matey waiting for them with hot baths, hot milk, and hot beds.

The scene in Joey’s room had changed little since the morning. Jack and Felicity now sat on one side of the bed whilst Ian and Con watched on the other. The figure in the bed remained flushed and hot. Jack and Ian both knew that the temperature must break soon if Joey was going to survive, but so far despite all the medication and nursing care there was no sign of this happening. Joey’s flushed cheeks and dark, damp hair threw the grey circles under her eyes and white, cracked lips into vivid relief.

 


#111:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 11:11 pm


Ooh... *falls into awed silence at the possibility that Jo might die*

 


#112:  Author: NicciLocation: UK PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 11:32 pm


*brushes a stray tear away with back of hand*

Where's the Robin when you need her?!

Helen was lovely, I like how honest she was to the kids, but also very sensitive.
you can't let Joey die! the rest of the family need her, and it'll destroy Jack. Pleeeeaasee. Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad

 


#113:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 11:35 pm


Nicci wrote:
*brushes a stray tear away with back of hand*

Where's the Robin when you need her?!


In a convent somewhere, presumably!

 


#114:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 11:39 pm


Carolyn, I know you like writing death scenes, but please don't let this be one of them, you've already killed Len and Reg after all.
Please let Joey survive this, even if it's only for Con's sake, it would just be so hard for her knowing that her mother died because she herself was pregnant.

 


#115:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 11:40 pm


Well, whichever it is, I'd love to get it soon!

 


#116:  Author: ChelseaLocation: Your Imagination PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 11:43 pm


*offers to come sing the Red Sarafan, but suspects that it would be of little help.

That was beautiful, as always.

 


#117:  Author: ChloëLocation: London: when away from home planet! PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 11:45 pm


Surprised i don't know what to think please tell us more Carolyn!

 


#118:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 11:46 pm


OH, don't let her die! They all need her. Crying or Very sad I do like the way this crisis is bringing out the best in everyone but hoping that it ends happily.

 


#119:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 11:51 pm


I find it somewhat ironic that everyone is willing Joey to live in this drabble, yet in pretty much every other drabble we're agreed we don't like her.

 


#120:  Author: PatLocation: Doncaster PostPosted: Sat Jan 24, 2004 11:54 pm


Please give us some more soon. I don't want to go to bed not knowing!

 


#121:  Author: LulieLocation: Middlesbrough PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 12:00 am


Carolyn, what more can I add?

Please let Joey get well again? Crying or Very sad

 


#122:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 12:10 am


Sarah_L wrote:
I find it somewhat ironic that everyone is willing Joey to live in this drabble, yet in pretty much every other drabble we're agreed we don't like her.


Well, I try to think of each story separately and in this one Joey has had a terrible shock with losing Len and is reacting as a parent might. In some of the others she behaves in such a way as to make anyone want to finish her off. I think that is due to the strength of the writing in making the characters come alive.

that sounds muddled but it's the best I can do!

 


#123:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 12:10 am


It's not muddled Pat, I agree with you completely.

 


#124:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 12:17 am


Thank you Carolyn!!!!!
Please don't kill Joey though!!!

 


#125:  Author: NicciLocation: UK PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 12:31 am


Vikki wrote:
Thank you Carolyn!!!!!
Please don't kill Joey though!!!


*Echoes Vikki's plea* Crying or Very sad

 


#126:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 2:57 am


*Can't believe that Carolyn wascruel enough to go off to bed and leave the story there.*

Please, please, please feel overcome by remorse and get up again to post the next bit Carolyn.

 


#127:  Author: Tassie_EllenLocation: Tasmania, Australia PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 3:06 am


Oh, no, please don't let Joey die! I might not like her much in some of the other drabbles (eg Primula) but I just feel desperately sorry for all the family in this one. Carolyn, your writing is sooo good, thank you!

Ellen *running out to find the tissue box and grab a big handful*

 


#128:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 10:47 am


Come back Carolyn, you can't leave things there!!

Please some one remember the best cure for Joey when she had Pneumonia is to sing to her!!

 


#129:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 11:31 am


Good morning/afternoon Carolyn,
I just thought I'd mention, I keep logging on just to check if there is any more story, and there never is, I hope I'm not upseting the board too much with these brief visits.
Of course, if there was more story, I could stay longer..

 


#130:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 11:46 am


*sigh* Is there no more of this?

 


#131:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 12:47 pm


Carolyn - desperate to know more - please post soon. The scenes yesterday - especially with the younger Maynard girls - were perfect. I hope Cecil and Phil can achieve the same strength that Felicity has already achieved.

 


#132:  Author: ChloëLocation: London: when away from home planet! PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 3:34 pm


Carolyn please may we have some more soon!

 


#133:  Author: PatLocation: Doncaster PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 3:49 pm


Carolyn, where are you? We all want more! megaphone

 


#134:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 6:42 pm


Crying or Very sad Please let us know if Joey's going to be alright Carolyn.
*hugs the poor Maynards*

 


#135:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 6:47 pm


Sorry, I wrote Holocaust this afternoon instead of this.

 


#136:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 8:35 pm


That noise was me screaming because I thought there was more and there wasn't.
Still eagerly awaiting the next part Carolyn, whenever you're ready.

 


#137:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 9:09 pm


As the evening progressed into night the watchers by the bed began, one by one to waver in their hope. No one spoke and the silence was broken only the occasional low moan from the bed. It was almost midnight when Phil Greaves administered one last injection and then stood back.
“That is all we can give,” he said in low tones, “If the fever doesn’t break soon I don’t think she will live to see the morning.” Con gave a sob, and leaned heavily on Ian, whilst Felicity buried her face in Jack’s chest. Jack nodded at Phil and said, “I know Greaves old chap, you have done everything I would have done myself, and more besides. Thank-you. No matter what, thank-you.” His voice broke as she spoke the words, and he collapsed back into his chair, holding Felicity close as he did. Con and Ian moved round to join them and the silence descended once more.

It was four in the morning, the hour when death most frequently visited the San that Joey’s temperature reached it’s peak. She had been tossing and moaning for the last hour, her chest rattling as she drew every breath with a painful effort. The pillow was drenched with perspiration and her hair lank and tangled round her painfully drawn face. Ian and Jack both knew that this was the crisis point and whilst Jack knelt next to the bed, holding Joey’s hand in his own Ian slipped out, to return five minutes later with the priest. Father Stephan placed his hand on Jacks head for a moment on blessing and then reaching into his pocket took out the oils he used to anoint Joey as he prepared her for the journey she was about to make.

 


#138:  Author: ChelseaLocation: Your Imagination PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 9:31 pm


Joey is NOT going on any journey! She is going to stay in that bed and get better!

 


#139:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 10:06 pm


Oh no, this can't be happening Crying or Very sad

 


#140:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 10:26 pm


Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad

 


#141:  Author: NicciLocation: UK PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 10:35 pm


Noooooooooooooooooooooo.

I accidently read the last line first, and almost didn't read the rest because I'm at work and was afraid of howling. I'm glad I did, but Joey simply can't die. Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad

 


#142:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 10:52 pm


It looks ominous, but I'm trying to remain hopeful since Joey is still alive, just, and where there's life....

 


#143:  Author: ChloëLocation: London: when away from home planet! PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 11:00 pm


Carolyn i don't believe you were so mean as to leave it there! Crying or Very sad

 


#144:  Author: PollyLocation: Essex PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 11:24 pm


I've ust caught up on this (the archived bit as well). Please don't let Joey die, Carolyn! I'm nearly in tears as it is! and pretty please don't wait too long before posting the next bit! Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad

 


#145:  Author: ChelseaLocation: Your Imagination PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 11:27 pm


Nicci wrote:
Noooooooooooooooooooooo.

I accidently read the last line first, and almost didn't read the rest because I'm at work and was afraid of howling. I'm glad I did, but Joey simply can't die. Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad


She CAN the quesiton is MAY she.

(sorry, couldn' t resist).

 


#146:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 11:40 pm


Well I could make you all wait, but since I've written the next bit...
Warning, it is very short, I've had to write all today's bits in short bits as I couldn't do it without a break.

















Jack remained on his knees, unashamed of the tears running down his face as he watched the wife he had loved and cherished for thirty years. Her breathing was ragged and began to slow, the flush on her cheeks faded and her almost frenzied movements stilled. There was a tense waiting, as the figure on the bed appeared to hold her breath and then give a huge sigh. Ian reached out his hand to Joey’s wrist. Felicity watching him bit her lip till it bled but did not notice. Con was weeping aloud and Jack remained with his head bowed over Joey’s hand. There was a sudden exclamation from Ian that caused them all to look up almost in horror at the disruption to their mourning and then the expression in his eyes caused Jack to bend over his wife and listen closely, she was breathing. Ian nodded at Jack and said simply, “The pulse is stronger, defiantly.” Jack grabbed Joey’s wrist and felt for himself, it was true. He put a hand to her forehead and realised that the temperature had dropped. Felicity and Con watched this with eager, hungry, eyes, hope once more being rekindled. Ian fetched Phil and Eugene and they confirmed what the two doctors already knew. Joey had passed the crisis. Jack knew it would be a long haul still, but the fear had passed, they could look forward once more.

 


#147:  Author: PatLocation: Doncaster PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 11:41 pm


Jo has been this far gone before, so we mustn't give up hope!

 


#148:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 11:46 pm


Oh thank you Carolyn, I am so pleased, relieved, overwhelmed.

I can understand that you needed to write this in short pieces - it was so emotional, but thanks for posting before I went to bed - I'll be able to sleep now.

 


#149:  Author: ChelseaLocation: Your Imagination PostPosted: Sun Jan 25, 2004 11:49 pm


Thank you Carolyn. I feel so much better. I could see why you need to write in little bits.

 


#150:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans PostPosted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 12:03 am


I'm so glad I didn't read the part with Father Stephan coming until you'd posted the last bit, I'd never have coped Crying or Very sad Now fingers crossed for her recovery to be Joey style and swift.

 


#151:  Author: PatLocation: Doncaster PostPosted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 12:07 am


We posted more or less together! I was right, though wasn't I? Very Happy Very Happy

 


#152:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 12:50 am


Phew! I'm glad I read those last 2 post together! Thank you for saving Joey! That was quite an emotional roller coaster ride!

 


#153:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 2:13 am


I'm also very glad I didn't read those two parts separately! *cuts tension with a handy knife*

 


#154:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 3:23 am


Oh!! Thank goodness!!!
*collapses into a limp heap!!*

 


#155:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 4:28 am


*helps Vikki to a chair*

 


#156:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 5:48 am


Likewise collapses into chair, after wheeling in cart with herbal tea and restorative chocolate cake.

 


#157:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 5:51 am


Oooh, choccie cake! *makes refreshing cup of tea for Kathy*

 


#158:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 6:09 am


I didn't read the two posts together but went to bed after reading just the one with the priest. Thank you Carolyn!!!! Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy

 


#159:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 7:23 am


*wonders how Lesley slept last night*

 


#160:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 3:54 pm


*thinks it probably wasn't too well*

 


#161:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 5:15 pm


I slept very well, but the temptation to leave that last post till this morning was very great. I almost wish I had, but I'm too good to you all sometimes. Makes up for the fact that you might not get the next part till tomorrow.

 


#162:  Author: Guest PostPosted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 5:27 pm


Carolyn - its fantastic, so tense and I've only just managed to catch up on it all have been busy all day yesterday and in training today. More please when you have the time etc. Love it though!

 


#163:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 5:30 pm


Anonymous wrote:
Carolyn - its fantastic, so tense and I've only just managed to catch up on it all have been busy all day yesterday and in training today. More please when you have the time etc. Love it though!


Sorry that was me - I'd been away for so long it had logged me out!! Confused

 


#164:  Author: ChloëLocation: London: when away from home planet! PostPosted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 6:29 pm


Thank you Carolyn that was lovley i'm so glad Crying or Very sad

 


#165:  Author: NicciLocation: UK PostPosted: Mon Jan 26, 2004 11:11 pm


Thank you Carolyn! that was very emotional, and a big relief after the previous part.

 


#166:  Author: PollyLocation: Essex PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 12:34 am


*breathes a huge sigh of relief!*

I did the same as Lesley, so have been on tenterhooks!
Thanx for that Carolyn! You had me on the edge of my seat, and considering its a fold-up wooden thing that is very uncomfortable on the edge, and I would normally sit very carefully on it (!), that bit was obviously v v v good! Very Happy

 


#167:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 12:58 am


Maybe you should get a more comfy chair Polly, we don't want you hurting yourself!

 


#168:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 4:42 am


*huggles Carolyn, and hopes for more soon!!!*

 


#169:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 7:01 am


Carolyn P wrote:
I slept very well, but the temptation to leave that last post till this morning was very great. I almost wish I had, but I'm too good to you all sometimes. Makes up for the fact that you might not get the next part till tomorrow.


Carolyn, if you had, I think you would have had to find a very, very good hiding place from the collective wrath of the CBB!

 


#170:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 5:59 pm


KB wrote:
Carolyn P wrote:
I slept very well, but the temptation to leave that last post till this morning was very great. I almost wish I had, but I'm too good to you all sometimes. Makes up for the fact that you might not get the next part till tomorrow.

Carolyn, if you had, I think you would have had to find a very, very good hiding place from the collective wrath of the CBB!


But surely none of you would harm me, would you Question Confused

 


#171:  Author: ChloëLocation: London: when away from home planet! PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 6:02 pm


Any chance of some more soon Carolyn?

 


#172:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 6:16 pm


Carolyn P wrote:
KB wrote:
Carolyn P wrote:
I slept very well, but the temptation to leave that last post till this morning was very great. I almost wish I had, but I'm too good to you all sometimes. Makes up for the fact that you might not get the next part till tomorrow.

Carolyn, if you had, I think you would have had to find a very, very good hiding place from the collective wrath of the CBB!


But surely none of you would harm me, would you Question Confused



Well, I wouldn't Carolyn, but you can never tell with some of this lot!!!

 


#173:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 6:29 pm


Indeed....

Is there any more please, Miss?! (in true Oliver manner)

 


#174:  Author: Lisa_TLocation: Belfast PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 8:02 pm


*joining in with the begging, pleading, scraping and grovelling*
Will that do you, Carolyn? Laughing

 


#175:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 8:24 pm


Later that morning Con sat in the Head’s study with Felicity feeling that she was in a dream. The tension of the past two days had been so reminiscent of that surrounding Len’s death and she was aware that her sister felt the same. The two girls had been insistent on telling the younger girls themselves, despite their overwhelming tiredness. “They need to know, and we need to tell them,” commented Con firmly and Felicity stood side by side with her sister and agreed. Cecil and Phillipa entered the room and catching sight of Con and Felicity ran across the room and flung themselves on their elder sisters. Words were not necessary, although a few were spoken. They knew by the very way their sisters sat that Joey was going to live. Cecil and Phillipa had spent the night in the Head’s apartment, but had slept little, their unspoken fear being that they would wake to find their mother dead.
“I think now, all four of you need some rest,” ordered Miss Annersley, “Con, I have no jurisdiction over you, but would strongly suggest that you go home and sleep, and as for you three,”
“They can come with me, all of them, Con included,” said a new voice, one none of them would dream of contradicting. Matey had entered the room unobserved and issued crisp orders to the girls to go straight to the school san when Miss Annersley had finished with them.
Miss Annersley looked up at Matey, the faintest glimmer of a twinkle in her eye, and on seeing the school’s domestic tyrant looking at her most defensive as she surveyed the group of Maynard girls smiled, “I think we have finished here Matron. Go with her girls and sleep well.”
The girls left and Miss Annersley was left to reflect on what might have been, how those girls could so easily have been motherless now. She knew full well why Matey had taken all of them, even Con and seemed so defensive of them all. Joey had been the apple of her eye since she was a child herself and Matey had been worried. Caring for Joey’s children was her way of expressing the relief that Con’s news had brought.

The next few weeks passed slowly for the Maynard family. Joey’s health had been seriously weakened, not only by the illness, but also by the strain that had preceded it. She had been known for the speed of her recoveries but this time was different. She made slow progress and a month later was still in the San. Dick, her twin, and Stephen had accompanied the younger boys on a flying visit the weekend after the crisis, but she had been far too weak to talk to them much at that point, still needing the oxygen. It was their father’s reassurance that this was normal and a solemn promise that they would be allowed to fly back if needed that calmed them, Geoff especially being frightened by the sight of Joey with the tubes and apparatus around her. This fear touched Jack and he spent some time that weekend with his sons, explaining not only what had happened, but also the reasons why. He took Geoff and Felix around the San, showing them what the different pieces of equipment were used for and answering all their questions about Joey’s treatment and about hospitals in general. The boys went back to England with an easier mind, and the letters to and from the Platz in the following weeks were increasingly happier in tone.





There may be more later, or some of holocaust. Unlikely both, but you never know, depends on the pb's.

 


#176:  Author: RebeccaLocation: Kendal/Oxford PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 8:25 pm


*Begging on hands and knees for more...*

Hurry up, please, this is jolly uncomfortable!

ETA: I'm not really that impatient; Carolyn got in first.

 


#177:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 8:28 pm


*huggles Carolyn thank you!*

 


#178:  Author: ChloëLocation: London: when away from home planet! PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 9:01 pm


Yay thank you Carolyn! Very Happy

 


#179:  Author: ChelseaLocation: Your Imagination PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 10:02 pm


Nice to see that Joey is getting better. I liked how Jack showed the boys all the equipment so that they wouldn't be so scared.

More, is always appreciated.

 


#180:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 10:24 pm


Thank you for that view of the wider family. I can imagine Matey's feelings. It relieves the tension to have something useful to do and she must have wanted to nurse Jo herself.

Nice to see the boys being reassured by Jack as well.

I ownder if Joey is going to be her old self by the end of this - not quite of course - she's been through a maturing experience.

 


#181:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 10:30 pm


Thank you Carolyn , I also like the way Jack tok time out to explain things to the boys.
Things seem to have improved now, so why am I still feeling anxious?

 


#182:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 11:11 pm


Good to here Joey is improving even if it is very slow, fingers crossed she keeps on improving.

I liked Matey's reaction to the news, mothering Joey's girls when she couldn't help Joey, and Jack's care for his boys too. *huggles worried Geoff*

 


#183:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 11:13 pm


It was late one February afternoon when Con entered Joey’s room with a bouquet of spring flowers in her hand to find the room empty. She stood puzzled and looked around. Joey’s things were still there, a notepad on the table, a glass of water next to the bed, with a rather dog-eared novel next to it. She saw a fresh nightgown on the top of the drawers waiting to be put away and automatically did so, straightening the brushes there as she did. Unsure where to go she wondered to the door and opened it. To her delight she saw Joey walking slowly down the corridor towards her, aided by a nurse.
“I’ve been in bed so long you see,” she explained once she was back there, “that it’s difficult to walk at first, but I’m to do a little more each day, and if I carry on will be allowed home at the beginning of next week.”
“Oh, mama. I’m so pleased. You must be looking forward to getting home.”
“Ye..es,” Joey dragged this out, sounding a little unsure.
“Why, what’s the matter?”
Joey looked a little shamefaced, “I didn’t do too well did I? I can remember how I felt, and I don’t want to go back there. It was like walking down a narrow path, ever so narrow. If I stayed on the path it would be OK, but I could only do that if I concentrated hard and kept my eyes fixed straight ahead. Whilst I was doing that I was aware of the rest of you, like voices, but if I let go and listened to you, or thought about Len then I would fall off the path.” Joey shivered.
“I don’t think you will go back mama,” replied Con slowly, “You are talking to us about it now, and that must make the path wider. We can all walk it together, side by side.”
Joey treasured these simple words form Con and repeated them to Jack when he sat with her later that evening.
“Con is growing more like you every day Jack. I couldn’t say anything at the time, but I can now. Those nights when you held me, when you sat beside me, when you were there, it helped. I couldn’t make myself respond, but your comfort meant so much.” Jack wrapped his arms round his wife, and kissed her tenderly on her head, “My love, what else would I do?”

 


#184:  Author: ChelseaLocation: Your Imagination PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 11:25 pm


Carolyn you forgot the tissue alert!!

That was beautiful. Con has become quite a woman.

 


#185:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Tue Jan 27, 2004 11:59 pm


Thank you for that Carolyn - so glad that Joey is going to be OK - funny on other drabbles I want to hit her but on this one I feel as defensive as Matey!

 


#186:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 12:09 am


Crying or Very sad *sobs* Crying or Very sad

That was lovely, Con was wonderful and I'm so glad to see Joey trying to cope.

 


#187:  Author: PollyLocation: Essex PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 12:12 am


*sniffle* Crying or Very sad
That was lovely Carolyn!

 


#188:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 1:05 am


Thank you Carolyn, that was beautiful.

 


#189:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 2:21 am


Have just caught up with this and am so glad I didn't read it in instalments,
thank you so much Carolyn. Nice to see Con grow up and mature also Felicity and the boys.

 


#190:  Author: Lisa_TLocation: Belfast PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 2:22 am


Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad
Why didn't you WARN us?

BTW, do you mean protective rather than defensive? When I read the line about Matey being defensive I had visions of her and Hilda getting into a catfight before I twigged!

Not that it matters- it's beautiful! More please!

 


#191:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 3:09 am


Damn!! Who emptied the tissue box and didn't refill it?
*dries eyes on corner of thread!!*

 


#192:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 4:29 am


*dries and irons thread*

*refills box*

*sigh* That was lovely. I'm so glad Con is becoming such a nice character!

 


#193:  Author: TrishLocation: Australia PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 7:53 am


*sniff* Crying or Very sad

I'm also happy Con is such a nice character in this. You can do anything to anyone else, but I get both protective and defensive of her!

 


#194:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 12:54 pm


*wonders if we need to chant or if there will be more for us soon*

 


#195:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 4:55 pm


I hope there will be more tonight, but it depends. This is harder than anything I've written before. As you can proberly tell I'm almost at the end, but there will be another few scenes.

 


#196:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 5:16 pm


Carolyn - this is very emotional and painful at times, but it is well worth the effort you have you into it.
Thank you.

*Looking forward to more when you're ready but not nagging*

 


#197:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 5:39 pm


Thanks for this Carolyn, it's been brilliant writing and I'm so glad Joey is recovering, physically and mentally.

 


#198:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 5:49 pm


that was lovely *sniff*. though my heart stopped when Con found the empty room! How mature Con is sounding.

In your own time, Carolyn! I'm sure we can all be patient when the results are as good as this.

 


#199:  Author: ChloëLocation: London: when away from home planet! PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 6:21 pm


Please may we have some more!

 


#200:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 10:11 pm


Joey began to regain strength as soon as she was able to move, and after reassurance from Jack and Con did indeed go home at the beginning of the following week, and the weekend saw the girls allowed home from school for a night to welcome her, and to celebrate her recovery. Joey had done some thinking whilst in hospital, and knowing that her children had all been worried decided to celebrate in style. Thus Cecil, Phil and Felicity arrived home after guides on the Saturday to find the door covered in balloons and streamers, Joey stood on the step waiting for them. True she was still pale, and had lost weight, but the girls didn’t notice that, the only thing they noticed was the open arms and warm smile coming from their mother. Con and Jack stood either side of her, and slightly behind, ready to provide support if she needed it. Joey’s eyes glistened suspiciously as she held her youngest girls, but she turned to Jack and Con as she led the party inside and grinned, blinking back the tears, “It’s going to be a happy home again.”

The weekend passed quickly, especially as the younger girls had to be back at school for prayers on Sunday night. However Joey still managed to cause uproar over the weekend. As they sat down to eat on the Saturday evening she calmly announced that she had a little activity for them after the meal. Jack being in on the surprise grinned, but a look of trepidation crossed Con’s face. She knew her mother of old and would not be surprised to be asked to crawl around on the floor during some game or other. With only six weeks or so to go before the baby was due she was expanding rapidly, and the prospect of one of Joey’s wilder exploits was not pleasing. No amount of teasing would make Joey reveal her plans, and she sat there looking mightily pleased with herself whilst they all tried to guess. After they had eaten she calmly marched them all off to the extensive attics at Freudesheim and had them searching out baby toys and clothes belonging not only to each of them, but to their mother, father, and various connections among their extensive circle of friends and family. The evening became a game of ‘do you remember’ and ‘who on earth had to wear this’ as they explored, and although she had to wipe away a tear or two at the sight of three tiny shoes packed carefully into a single box, Joey knew that she was right to have done this. Not only did they find lots of things that would be useful to Con, and have a lot of fun in the bargain, but also more importantly as far as Joey and Jack were concerned, Joey took another step forward.

They were still rooting through boxes and trunks, and had just found the furniture for ‘La Maison des Poupees’ when Joey gave and exclamation “The time!” There was a scramble as they looked at their watches and giggles from Cecil and Phil as they realised that it was half past eleven.
“Bed, now, and don’t tell Matey!” was Joey’s quick order to her three schoolgirls, but when they left the attics they realised that this was impossible. They were all covered in dust, even their hair and all needed to shower before bed. It was an hour later before they were all tucked up and Joey leaving Con who was also staying the night pulled a face as her daughter said, “I won’t tell Matey, if you don’t tell Ian,” and agreed to the bargain.

This meant that the following morning they did not wake for breakfast at the usual time, coming down singly as they woke, and Anna only moved the breakfast dishes when she needed to set the table for lunch. They all managed to make lunch, but Joey was still yawning and without realising handed Jack the salad dressing jug instead of the milk jug. Jack poured and drank without paying any attention, engrossed as he was in the sight of Joey’s mouth almost unhinging as she yawned. Then he tasted. The coffee hit the table as he spluttered and spat, the cup rolling all the way across the table as its contents spread out over the cloth.
“Jack, what on earth are you doing?”
“What did you put in my coffee?”
Joey goggled at him; sure that she hadn’t put anything into Jacks coffee. Jack grabbed the jug and gingerly tasted it’s contents. “Salad dressing. Why did you give me salad dressing?”
Joey giggled, realising what had happened. Then Cecil and Phil started, soon the whole group was laughing. Con holding onto the table as she tried not to laugh too hard fearing the consequences but unable to help herself. Anna bringing in the soup stared at the family and then calmly began removing the spilled coffee and the ruined cloth, shaking her head as she went.

 


#201:  Author: MarianneLocation: Bournemouth PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 10:18 pm


*sniffs*
beautiful
thankyou

 


#202:  Author: catherineLocation: York PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 10:30 pm


Wow Carolyn! Just caught up with this! It's fantastic!

More please, when you have time!

 


#203:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 11:13 pm


Embarassed Embarassed Embarassed

 


#204:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Jan 28, 2004 11:24 pm


Thank you fro this Carolyn - it's exquisite. Smile

 


#205:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 12:16 am


That was so touching, Carolyn. Thank you.

 


#206:  Author: Lisa_TLocation: Belfast PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 12:17 am


*has hysterics from sniffing and giggling*
I love the salad cream episode!

 


#207:  Author: PollyLocation: Essex PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 12:26 am


Really sweet, Carolyn! Thanx! Very Happy

 


#208:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 1:42 am


KB wrote:
*dries and irons thread*

*refills box*


Thanks KB!! Sorry about that, but there was nothing else to use!!!

Carolyn, this was wonderful!! Love the salad dressing in the coffee!!!!!

More please!! (we do get to see Con's baby, don't we?)

 


#209:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 11:56 am


*feels all warm inside*
That was lovely, the baby clothes and toys were a gorgeous touch and the salad cream mistake made me giggle helplessly Laughing

 


#210:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 12:51 pm


Coffee with salad dressing, that's a new touch, eeeeuwwww!

 


#211:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 2:53 pm


Thank you Carolyn, I went from sobbing to shrieking with laughter in only a few minutes. The scene of the Maynards together was very touching. However, I'm beginning to get worried about Con and the iminent arrival. Why do all drabbles worry me so!

More please soon

 


#212:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 3:43 pm


Terrific Carolyn, I am so hapy that Joey is recovering, it was lovely seeing them together, and I loved the salad dressing incident too.

 


#213:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 4:37 pm


Wow. That was amazing - Ijust read the whole thing through from beginning to end and it was just brilliant - very awe inspiring and brilliantly written.

You would probably need a new hat if I told you that I actually fainted half way through this! Wish I could say it was because of the emotional strain, but unfortunately it was pain induced! Luckily I had a great story to read once I came round again!! Mum was a bit shocked though - she was reading it over my shoulder and thought it was because of the strain, hehe!

So in other words, it's amazingly written and very believable Smile

Now for the predictable bit.... MORE PLEASE!!!!

 


#214:  Author: ChloëLocation: London: when away from home planet! PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 5:07 pm


Carolyn this is turenly wonderful more soon i hope!

 


#215:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 5:32 pm


Carolyn, that was lovely. Please can we have more whenever possible Laughing

 


#216:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 6:23 pm


*giggles wildly at the mental images before congratulating Carolyn on her delicate handling of an unmentionable issue!*

 


#217:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 6:28 pm


The next weeks went by quickly, Joey regaining life and strength as the spring passed slowly. Con was growing larger and finding that each week was now feeling as long as a month. She was tired, unwieldy, given to bursting into tears and generally feeling like nothing she had ever felt before. She had cleaned and decorated the nursery long before, the old Maynard cradle now stood there waiting its occupant and the drawers were full of tiny white clothes. Nothing remained to be done in preparation, yet Con had to find something. She had washed the old toys, including the silver and bone teether that she and all her siblings had cut their teeth on and tidied them into the pine toy box that stood under the window. She had made a scrapbook in the way the girls at school always did, and framed some pictures for the wall, Margaret Tarrant, and Kate Greenaway prints. There were fresh lavender bags tucked in-between the sheets and new curtains at the windows. A rocking chair stood by the crib, and a night-light was ready on the small table. A sheepskin rug, light against the dark stained floorboards, completed the room. It was a simple, but beautiful nursery and Con delighted in it. She had to find something to do however and had taken to knitting.

“Let me sort out that mess, it looks like macramé, not knitting,” said Joey with a wry grin one afternoon surveying Con’s attempts to knit a simple blanket square.
“Thanks. I just can’t seem to finish with the same number of stitches as I start with.”
“I can see that. I think they are disappearing into these holes, “ replied Joey as she pointed out the holes left by the dropped stitches. A half-hour later she had repaired the damage and passed it back to Con.
“Why are you trying to knit? Surely you have enough blankets?”
“I know, but I have to do something. My fingers twitch if I sit doing nothing. I can’t concentrate on writing and ache too much for anything more physical.”
“Oh, I remember. These last few weeks take longer than the other eight months altogether don’t they.”
“Yes. I wish that it was just over, everything is ready and all we are doing is waiting. Ian says that the baby is still growing and that these weeks are just as important, but it’s not him who’s pregnant”
“That’s men. Watch out, you’ve just dropped another stitch.”
Con picked up the stitch and carried on knitting, reaching the end of the row with success this time. She swapped hands and began on the next row, not noticing that she knitted two stitches together as she started the row.
“We were early weren’t we?”
“Yes, but given that there were three of you it was just as well. You were as like as peas in a pod,” responded Joey, her eyes misting at the remembrance. “You started to grow differently soon, but those first few months only a few of us could tell you apart.”
“I wish this one would come early,” moaned Con, pushing a foot out from under her ribcage, and then wincing as she was kicked in the bladder in return. “ I’m fed up of being used as a football.”
“It will come soon enough, let me sort out that knitting again and you shut your eyes for a few minutes. I’ll tell you about the letter I received today from Stephen, and if you drop off all the better.”
Joey proceeded to do just that, and as she told how Stephen was enjoying his work, in a large engineering firm, and how he had been to visit Geoff and Felix and their antics, both loosing their watches between getting into Stephens car and getting out at the other end. After a few minutes she looked up and saw that Con was sleeping. She pulled a cover over her, picked up Con’s knitting and carried on. When Con finally awoke later that afternoon it was to find a pile of blanket squares ready and Joey showed her how to fasten them together, a task that Con was able to do without quite as many problems. They spent another two afternoons together knitting and talking before the blanket was finished and Con was thankful for Joey’s company in those last interminable days of waiting.

 


#218:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 6:54 pm


Joey is being a perfect mother at the moment, I really like her in this drabble (as opposed to the others).

 


#219:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 6:58 pm


Carolyn! That was beautifully written!! Thank you honey!!!



And Kat, I'm sending you big huggles and hoping you're felling better now honey!!

 


#220:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 7:02 pm


Oh, good for Joey! And poor Con!

 


#221:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 7:08 pm


Seeing Con like that with Joey, reminds me that Joey didn't have a mother when she was pregnant and Madge was too young to have the perspective that Jo has now. That was such a nice interlude! Thank you.

 


#222:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 7:29 pm


That's a very good point, Pat!

 


#223:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 10:41 pm


HOPE to finish this tomorrow. There should only be three (I think) more scenes, maybe four, five tops. No, must stop thinking now...*closes the PB hutch door*

 


#224:  Author: NicciLocation: UK PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 10:47 pm


I've just caught up on this.

Its wonderful carolyn. Con is becoming such a delightful character, and seeing her and Joey together is very warming.

*looking forward to tomorrow*

 


#225:  Author: KathrynLocation: Melbourne/Hamilton until 11 September PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 11:32 pm


This is a much nicer Joey than we've senn before. It is great story, please continue for as long as you can manage!

 


#226:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 11:43 pm


Thank you Carolyn, that was lovely, all that's required now is a nice HAPPY ending

 


#227:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Thu Jan 29, 2004 11:52 pm


*begins the chant, just to pass the time*

 


#228:  Author: PollyLocation: Essex PostPosted: Fri Jan 30, 2004 12:11 am


*joins in said chant!*

I really enjoyed that, Carolyn! Thanx!!!!

 


#229:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Jan 30, 2004 7:27 am


That last post was lovely Carolyn! Thank you.

 


#230:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Jan 30, 2004 10:15 am


Argh. Just had a phone call from a friend to make arrangements for the coffee we had agreed to meet up for today.

I think it will probably be this evening now before the rest of this.

 


#231:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans PostPosted: Fri Jan 30, 2004 12:30 pm


It's lovely to see Joey being a good mother for once Very Happy

 


#232:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Fri Jan 30, 2004 1:08 pm


Carolyn P wrote:
Argh. Just had a phone call from a friend to make arrangements for the coffee we had agreed to meet up for today.



Kaffee und Kuchen, how nice. Very Happy

 


#233:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Jan 30, 2004 1:57 pm


Sarah_L wrote:
Carolyn P wrote:
Argh. Just had a phone call from a friend to make arrangements for the coffee we had agreed to meet up for today.



Kaffee und Kuchen, how nice. Very Happy


Milky coffee, cinamon toast, and a good natter catching up. It was wonderful.

 


#234:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Jan 30, 2004 6:49 pm


(Hope this isn't spreeing. It's six hours and a change of subject)


A fortnight later Con and Ian were sat watching the fire one evening and talking about nothing in particular. Con had been doing a crossword and reading the clues out to Ian, who in turn had been offering solutions verging on the ridiculous. They had ended in a fit of giggles that left Con with a slight backache. Ian, being wise had not suggested going to bed, but had raked the fire and kept Con talking whilst he kept a wary eye on her. Con was talking about how Felicity had made a flying visit that morning with a bag full of little things the three girls had been making at school, soft toys, and a mobile that Cecil had cut on the school’s fretsaw and carefully threaded so that it balanced perfectly. Then as Ian watched her face changed from a careless smile, to a grimace of pain in a moment. Lay back in her chair gasping, then looked astounded at Ian’s giggles.
“What are laughing about? I’m in pain, or rather I was…these practice contractions are getting stronger every time.”
“Hmm,” was all Ian replied, and went off to make a drink, realising that they were going to need it. Twenty minutes later the same thing happened again, this time Con only just managed to put her drink down before it grew to it’s peak of intensity.
“Ouch!” Con rubbed her tummy and looked at Ian, “Why are you finding this so funny?”
“Do you really not realise? Two strong contractions, twenty minutes apart. Drink up whilst you think about it darling.”
“Oh, do you think so,” the light was dawning in Con’s mind now, and their suspicions where confirmed when after another twenty minutes there was another contraction, this time accompanied by other signs that Con was indeed in labour.

 


#235:  Author: ChloëLocation: London: when away from home planet! PostPosted: Fri Jan 30, 2004 6:57 pm


Yay thank you Carolyn Very Happy

Please let them be ok, (by that i mean baby and Con)!

 


#236:  Author: Lisa_TLocation: Belfast PostPosted: Fri Jan 30, 2004 7:10 pm


Lovely, Carolyn! You're not planning on killing anyone I hope!!!!!!

Was I only person who got an image of Felicity (was it Felicity) cutting a mobile phone with the fretsaw..it took about three readings before I realised C meant those float decorative things!!! Embarassed Embarassed I really need to engage my brain before reading drabbles..

 


#237:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Fri Jan 30, 2004 7:56 pm


Oh good! Carolyn this is lovely! And I had an image of a 3 year old (I can never imagine Cecil as anything but) cutting out a phone!

 


#238:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Jan 30, 2004 8:03 pm


Oooh! Now we have to keep vigil through Con's labour. *starts to pace up and down*

 


#239:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Fri Jan 30, 2004 8:30 pm


Thanks Carolyn - please don't let anything go wrong now.
*crosses fingers*

 


#240:  Author: ChelseaLocation: Your Imagination PostPosted: Fri Jan 30, 2004 9:07 pm


I think I might have thrown something at Ian if he was laughing at me while I was in pain!

Thanks for that bit. Please let the labour be nice and safe and easy.

 


#241:  Author: catherineLocation: York PostPosted: Fri Jan 30, 2004 9:23 pm


Please come back and give us the rest, Carolyn! I hope Con's labour is OK.

 


#242:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Fri Jan 30, 2004 9:28 pm


There's no reason why the labour should cause any problems - is there, Carolyn? Confused

 


#243:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Fri Jan 30, 2004 10:21 pm


*chants at Carolyn for more!!*

 


#244:  Author: Lisa_TLocation: Belfast PostPosted: Fri Jan 30, 2004 10:52 pm


*joins with the chanting*

 


#245:  Author: ChloëLocation: London: when away from home planet! PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 12:13 am


*joins the chant*

 


#246:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 12:48 am


Sorry I've been out all night, but surely you don't want a blow by blow description of her labour Exclamation Question

 


#247:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 1:03 am


We want more story Carolyn!!!!!!

 


#248:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 1:05 am


All I can say at the moment is that she is in labour.

It's gone midnight and I'm not about to start writing the next section now!

 


#249:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 1:15 am


But it's Saturday tomorrow Carolyn......

 


#250:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 1:18 am


Vikki wrote:
But it's Saturday tomorrow Carolyn......


Yes and...? Your point is...?

6 years and 8 yerars still wake up at the same time, and even if I don't get up I'm awake. Besides if I write it now I'll never get to sleep and then won't be able to write any more of this or Holocaust tomorrow!

 


#251:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 1:30 am


*suggests sleeping tablets for the kiddiwinks!!!!* Wink
(only kidding Carolyn!!!)

 


#252:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 1:31 am


Vikki wrote:
*suggests sleeping tablets for the kiddiwinks!!!!* Wink
(only kidding Carolyn!!!)


There have been times when I have seriously considered it, believe me!

 


#253:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 1:43 am


Awwww! Honey!!
But you had your fun........ Wink

 


#254:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 1:46 am


And then ended up where Con is now!

 


#255:  Author: Lisa_TLocation: Belfast PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 1:53 am


Vikki! Shocked Shocked Laughing ROFL

 


#256:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 2:02 am


Carolyn P wrote:
And then ended up where Con is now!


My point exactly!!! Very Happy

 


#257:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 2:03 am


So, knowing exactly what Con is going through, I don't think the middle of the night is the right time to write about it.

And as I have now reached 700 posts I'm going to bed. To sleep.

 


#258:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 2:07 am


*sighs resignedly*
Sleep well honey! And please post before 3pm, as that's when I have to go to work!!!

 


#259:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 9:32 am


Congratulations on reaching 700, Carolyn!

More story soon please!

 


#260:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 11:52 am


When are we going to get more?
Please let Con be ok, I want a happy ending!

 


#261:  Author: PollyLocation: Essex PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 1:01 pm


Has she had it yet???!!!!

 


#262:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 1:03 pm


Polly wrote:
Has she had it yet???!!!!


Apparently not!

 


#263:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 4:37 pm


It's turning out to be a long labour. Poor Con.

 


#264:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 5:33 pm


Within another twenty minutes they were pulling up outside the special maternity unit at the San and after waiting for the next contraction to pass rushed inside. The next hours passed in a blur and it was around 6:00am the following morning that the midwife who had cared for Con all through the pregnancy asked Ian if he would like to deliver the baby himself. Ian, far too emotional to speak nodded and after another 10 minutes Nadine Helena Hamilton was born. She was gathered closely up and wrapped in a blanket whilst still in Ian’s and he carried her round to her mother. Con took the little bundle and held her baby for the first time, Ian bending over them, surreptitiously counting his daughter’s fingers and toes. This did not escape the notice of the midwife and nurse and they giggled in the corner as they prepared the crib.

It was after lunch that Jack and Joey arrived, accompanied by Felicity, Cecil and Phil who had been given leave from school as they were in the last week of term. Joey restrained herself and sent the three girls in first, to have a peek at the baby sleeping in the crib and then to congratulate their sister before they were accompanied back to school by Eugene Courvoisier. Once they had gone Jack and Joey entered and Joey dashed to the bed to embrace Con whilst Jack shook Ian’s hand. There was an expectant pause and then Con said, “So, would you like to see her?”
“Of course, you don’t think we’re here to se you do you?” replied Joey teasingly. The two new grandparents tiptoed across to the crib and peered in. They looked at the tiny occupant, her black hair sticking up in tufts, eyes screwed tight shut, arms flinging out every so often in reflex. Pink patches showed up on her cheeks and as they watched she opened her eyes and gazed directly at them.
“Oh, she’s beautiful, and so like you were as a baby.”
“She is rather isn’t she,” responded the proud mama. Nadine began crying at this point and at a nod from Con, Joey picked her up and carried her over to the bed. With the baby cradled in her arms Joey asked, “So what are you going to call her?”
“Auntie Madge told me that you had a fondness for the name Malvina at one point.” Con kept a straight face as she said this and then added, “But I thought I would follow your example with us and call her One”
Joey gaped and looked at Ian who simply held up his hands and pointed at Con. Con was now openly giggling, “Have I really managed to reduce you to speechlessness mama?”
“Certainly not,” said that lady recovering her poise and removing the cushion on which she had been sat, “I was merely deciding which one of you I should throw this at first.”
“Neither of us whilst you are holding Nadine Helena Hamilton,” Con took pity on her mother at last.
“Nadine, that’s unusual,” Jack said whilst looking over Joey’s shoulder at his granddaughter and stroking her cheek with his little finger.
“It means hope,” replied Con simply.
“Nadine Helena Hamilton,” repeated Joey, her eyes filling, “There couldn’t be anything more appropriate for this little one.”

 


#265:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 5:49 pm


Beautiful, thank you Carolyn Smile

 


#266:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 5:52 pm


Sniffle, sniffle, sniffle, this is truly touching, Carolyn.

 


#267:  Author: Jay PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 6:01 pm


Crying or Very sad *sniffle*
that was wonderful Carolyn. What a lovely introduction to Nadine Helena Hamilton. And her name sounds just right.

Thank you

 


#268:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 6:12 pm


Welcome to Nadine. Lovely episode, thanks Carolyn. *Sniffs*

 


#269:  Author: ChelseaLocation: Your Imagination PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 6:15 pm


Crying or Very sad Beautiful Carolyn. It is lovely to see how well Joey is doing. And fun to see Con teasing her Mamma like that.

Thanks.

 


#270:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 6:45 pm


I think that there is just one episode of this left now, and it will be tomorrow afternoon/evening, sorry.

 


#271:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 6:50 pm


Thank you for that Carolyn! Very Happy Crying or Very sad

Beautiful name.

 


#272:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 6:56 pm


Thank you Carolyn, that was beautiful, oh dear I'm crying in a public place!! I'm so glad the baby is happy and healthy.

Can we have some more soon. Thanks Very Happy

 


#273:  Author: Lisa_TLocation: Belfast PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 7:58 pm


AW *sniffle* CArolyn, beautiful. Surely you don't mean that you'll keep us waiting that long?!

Lesley, I'm getting worried about you. ARe you intending to compete with Rachel?

 


#274:  Author: LisaLocation: South Coast of England PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 8:55 pm


Oh Carolyn! This is wonderful. I have just read it through all at once (I got behind about 10 days ago!) and the effect has been amazing - I feel like I've been on a 'journey' with Joey. You have described her (and her family's) grief so realistically. It's clever how you have actually written this too - the perspective and the way the language and atmosphere changes according to the point on the story. You have such a talent and flair for this! But it must have been emotional and draining! Thank you! Very Happy

 


#275:  Author: catherineLocation: York PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 9:03 pm


This is great, Carolyn! Please keep going!

 


#276:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 9:11 pm


Thank you Carolyn, that was so lovely, and I'm so happy that Con and the baby are both well, it's good to see Joey more like her old self too.
Very Happy Sad (happy tears).
I love the baby's name, it's perfect.

 


#277:  Author: LisaLocation: South Coast of England PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 9:22 pm


So sorry about all those postings, everybody! Embarassed Am trying to delete but it won't give me the option! Sad

Although this story IS worth 3x lots of praise Very Happy

 


#278:  Author: catherineLocation: York PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 9:25 pm


Don't worry, Lisa! We've all done it! I'm sure some kind mod will delete them for you!

 


#279:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 9:51 pm


That was so good, so pleased for Con!
Glad to see Joey is back to normal!
Just upset to hear that there's only one more extract left, Sad

 


#280:  Author: PatLocation: Doncaster PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 10:04 pm


All done, Lisa! No problem!

 


#281:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 11:06 pm


Lisa_T wrote:
AW *sniffle* CArolyn, beautiful. Surely you don't mean that you'll keep us waiting that long?!

Lesley, I'm getting worried about you. ARe you intending to compete with Rachel?


Sorry Lisa - don't know what you mean???

 


#282:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 11:18 pm


I think she means the smilies in your sig.

Sorry, but I've been out all evening and will be at church in the morning. If I wrote the last bit now I'd be tired and wouldn't do it justice and want to round the story off properly, although I did almost decide to leave it there.

I'm astounded by all the lovely comments, I was a bit worried that it might be too sentimental, although there was a lot of emotion to convey.

 


#283:  Author: Tassie_EllenLocation: Tasmania, Australia PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 11:25 pm


Not too sentimental at all, Carolyn. It's been a lovely story - thanks so much!

Ellen *who loves a good cry now and then, especially when it's followed by a happy ending*

 


#284:  Author: Lisa_TLocation: Belfast PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 11:27 pm


Yes, that was it, Carolyn- Lesley's smilies!

It's not sentimental- it's lovely. nice change from death and destruction elsewhere. Be nice to have more soon! Laughing

 


#285:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 11:28 pm


Oh my smilies! Well it's taken me until now to work out how to get them onto my sig - I wanted them as soon as I saw them - thought they went well with the definitions!

 


#286:  Author: Lisa_TLocation: Belfast PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 11:42 pm


*can only agree!*

 


#287:  Author: Catherine_BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Sat Jan 31, 2004 11:51 pm


Carolyn, I've just read this entire drabble from start to (almost) finish, and it's wonderful. Your writing just gets better and better, it's such a pleasure to read. Thank you.

*happy to have made it just in time for the last post!*

 


#288:  Author: PollyLocation: Essex PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 12:03 am


Thank you Carolyn!!!! Kiss
That was soooo lovely! Have to admit to a welling up in the eyes *sniffle*
Am looking foward to your final installment! Very Happy

 


#289:  Author: ChloëLocation: London: when away from home planet! PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 12:48 pm


Thanks Carolyn that was beautiful, more soon i hope!

 


#290:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 1:44 pm


I had been hoping to ssee the last instalment before going to work - oh well, it's something to look forward to when I get home.

 


#291:  Author: Lisa_TLocation: Belfast PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 4:50 pm


No more?!!! Oh Carolyn! bawling

 


#292:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 5:36 pm


Two weeks later Nadine slept her way through her christening. Felicity handed her to the priest as one godmother, and Biddy acting as proxy for Margot who was to be her other godmother took her afterwards. Her husband Eugene was godfather, having been Ian’s friend and advisor since his early days at the san. Jack and Joey sat in the front pew, watching as their first grandchild was welcomed and blessed.

After the service the family and various friends congregated at Freudesheim in order to celebrate together. It was a busy day and Con was soon tired. Muttering to Ian she left the room and guests, hoping that a few minutes in silence would help her to keep going through the afternoon. She slipped into the study, it being the nearest room, knowing that guests would not enter there without being bid. She sat down on Jack’s leather chair and let her eyes drop. It was like this that Joey found her twenty minutes later, fast asleep. She quietly covered the sleeping form with an old jumper that Jack resolutely refused to throw out and tiptoed from the room.

Con emerged after another three quarters of an hour to find that most of the guests had began to depart. She quietly made the rounds of the others as they too left and then sank gratefully onto the sofa.
“Thank you for letting me sleep, I needed it so much.”
“I couldn’t bring myself to wake you, I always did say to let sleeping babes lie.” It took Con a moment to realise what Joey had said, then she squealed in indignation.
“I’m hardly a babe now, not with one of my own.”
Joey’s eyes held Con’s for a moment in a teasing laugh, but she sobered as she replied, “Con, my dear, you will always be my babe. We have been through a trial this last winter and it was I who needed your care rather than the other way around, but you are still my babe, and always will be.”
“Yes mama,” Con blushed slightly, and then reddened even more as Joey continued,
Your father and I are so, so proud of the women you and Margot and Len, yes Len too have become and I know that you will continue to do so, you and Ian, and this little one.” Her voice lightened as she continued, “Now, how about a game before tea, we could clear the tables and slide across the floor, I haven’t done that in so long,”
Con flung a cushion directly at Joey, “Mother!”
“Made you rise,” replied the irrepressible Joey.

Jack said nothing during this exchange, but he too was happy once more. The serious reflection from Joey, and that last sally both confirmed his opinion that Joey was recovering not only physically, but in spirit too. Len’s death had left a scar that would always be there, for all of them. Con and Margot had grown and matured into the strong faithful women he had always hoped they would be and Joey was now facing not only the past, but living with a hope once more.

 


#293:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 5:40 pm


Thank you Carolyn, this story has been wonderful from start to finish. Laughing Crying or Very sad

 


#294:  Author: PatMacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 5:46 pm


That was THE perfect ending. that has been so good from beginning to end. NOT sentimental at all but very emotional. Thank you.

 


#295:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 5:50 pm


Carolyn, that was utterly beautiful. Thanks so much for a wonderful drabble. Kiss

 


#296:  Author: Lisa_TLocation: Belfast PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 5:51 pm


*awwwww* *sniffles* Where's that tissue box?!

That was lovely, Carolyn. Well done! Laughing

 


#297:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 6:23 pm


Aw that was wonderful Carolyn, thank you Kiss

 


#298:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 6:34 pm


This drabble has bee great! Don't know how I will cope without it! Am so sad that this is the end!

 


#299:  Author: Sarah_LLocation: Redcar PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 6:45 pm


That was just lovely Carolyn. Thank you so much. Very Happy

 


#300:  Author: ChloëLocation: London: when away from home planet! PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 6:55 pm


*wanders off in search of the tissue box*

Thank you Carolyn as wonderful as ever!

 


#301:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 7:16 pm


Embarassed Embarassed

I'm glad you all liked it. It has been wracking in parts to write, and I've tried to make it balanced and not too sentimental to read. I did change the original idea I had, and I'm glad I did. Thanks for all your wonderful comments as I've written this, especaily after Joey became ill.

Suppose as Len and Reg were dead I still can't really claim to have finally written a story without a death.

 


#302:  Author: AlexLocation: Home again PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 7:26 pm


That was sooo lovely Carolyn, and you made us all not hate Joey, which is such a nice change!

 


#303:  Author: RebeccaLocation: Kendal/Oxford PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 7:32 pm


I've really enjoyed this, Carolyn. Thanks!

 


#304:  Author: PollyLocation: Essex PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 8:34 pm


Carolyn, that was wonderful!! Please, please put it in the archives so we can read it again and again. Thank you! Kiss

 


#305:  Author: MarianneLocation: Bournemouth PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 8:53 pm


gosh, i'm glad i caught up with that one! excellent stuff!

 


#306:  Author: Jay PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 9:11 pm


Carolyn, thank you very much for an outstanding and sensitive portrayal of grief and breakdown, and their effect on others. Well Done!

 


#307:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 9:41 pm


As this is has finished can we know what your original idea was please? Very Happy

 


#308:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 10:21 pm


I'm not sure that I want to say 'cos it wasn't very nice and would have been even more dificult to write. It was only when I worked it out to this version that I was happy to start writing and posting.

It's longer than I envisaged at first, around 20.000 words, an arkward length, neither short story or full book.

 


#309:  Author: PatLocation: Doncaster PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 10:42 pm


Carolyn that was lovely. You made us really feel what the characters were feeling. It was very true to life. Thank you.

 


#310:  Author: catherineLocation: York PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 10:58 pm


Very emotional but very lovely, thank you, Carolyn! You're very talented!

 


#311:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sun Feb 01, 2004 11:32 pm


Thank you Carolyn, that really was worth waiting for, the whole subject was so sensitively handled, and not a word out of place. Truely wonderful.

 


#312:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans PostPosted: Mon Feb 02, 2004 12:04 am


That was beautiful Carolyn. I'm sitting here trying very hard not to cry but it was such a beautiful ending. I never knew that was what Nadine meant.
Thank you so much for the whole, lovely, story.

 


#313:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Mon Feb 02, 2004 1:34 am


*huggles Carolyn, and grabs handfuls of tissues to dry happy tears!*

 


#314:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Mon Feb 02, 2004 3:13 am


Thank you Carolyn for a really wonderful story. Glad I'm not the only one that cried at the last two posts.

You have a lovely style of writing, have enjoyed every word of this.

 


#315:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Feb 02, 2004 1:15 pm


That was a real weepy, Carolyn, a terrific ending.

 


#316:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon Feb 02, 2004 3:20 pm


Thank you Carolyn, that was a really beautiful story, I can't believe its finished!! Crying or Very sad

 


#317:  Author: KathrynLocation: Melbourne/Hamilton until 11 September PostPosted: Mon Feb 02, 2004 9:42 pm


Lovely story. Can't believe it has finished but you deserve a good rest after the emotion-wringing and cliffhangers(!).

 


#318:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Feb 02, 2004 9:51 pm


Carolyn, what you have written is known as a novella, in length half-way between a short story and a novel.

Think of DH Lawrwnce's 'The Virgin and The Gipsy' - that was a novella.

BTW, you should send this to Liss for the Fiction site.

 


#319:  Author: RachelLocation: Plotting in my lair; sometimes in Hampshire, England, UK, Europe, Earth, Milky Way, Universe PostPosted: Tue Feb 03, 2004 12:10 am


Wonderful Carolyn - beautifully balanced too.

So are you going to write about Margot now? Rolling Eyes

 


#320:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Tue Feb 03, 2004 3:49 am


Oooh! If you listen really hard, you can hear Carolyn screaming at Rachel's suggestion...... Laughing

 


#321:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Feb 03, 2004 9:24 am


I thought I had Margot settled and happy. Don't kno0w enough about Nun's or Peru to write much more in that line anyway and didn't feel it necessary, so

Yah, boo, Sucks, Rachel!!! Wink

 


#322:  Author: NellLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Feb 03, 2004 10:34 am


Carolyn - just caught up with the end of this and loved it all, well done. Very sensitive and well thought through I really enjoyed it. Thanks.

 


#323:  Author: VikkiLocation: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Tue Feb 03, 2004 5:36 pm


Carolyn P wrote:
I thought I had Margot settled and happy. Don't kno0w enough about Nun's or Peru to write much more in that line anyway and didn't feel it necessary, so

Yah, boo, Sucks, Rachel!!! Wink


Good for you Carolyn!!!!

 


#324:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Tue Feb 03, 2004 7:10 pm


Oh, dear, I think I'm the last person to comment on this. Embarassed Carolyn, I've loved every part of it. I loved the ending. I'm so glad that it seems like everyone will be happy now. Thank you so much for writing it!

 


#325:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Feb 03, 2004 7:51 pm


Thank you KB. You did have a very good reason not seeing then end until now.

Somehow the comments from you and Lesley mean a lot, probably because I respect your writing so much. I'm still a little gobsmacked at how well received this has been anyway. Embarassed Embarassed Embarassed

 


#326:  Author: KBLocation: Melbourne, Australia PostPosted: Tue Feb 03, 2004 7:54 pm


I'm just as flattered by everyone's opinions of my work. *hugs Carolyn*

 


#327:  Author: MandyLocation: Derry, N.Ireland PostPosted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 6:09 pm


Sorry to be so late on this but I'm still playing catch up.

Carolyn, its a truely amazing piece. I cried almost the whole way through it. I think why Joey appealed to everyone in this was because she wasn't being superwoman and wasn't afraid to admit she couldn't cope. I loved every bit of it. Thank you.

 


#328:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Sun Feb 15, 2004 12:31 am


Carolyn, thank you so much for a sensitive and well-told story. Especially with a happy ending Smile .

(I'm s-l-o-w-l-y catching up.)

 


#329:  Author: NicciLocation: UK PostPosted: Sun Feb 29, 2004 7:09 pm


Carolyn I finally caught up on this, and it was lovely. I had tears in my eyes at the end, which was a bit embarrassing as I was in the computer labs at uni! Embarassed

Thank you for the happy ending.

 


#330:  Author: ChloëLocation: London: when away from home planet! PostPosted: Mon Mar 01, 2004 12:35 am


I just re-read the end and i loved it!

 




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