The CBB :: View topic - Diana's Interview

#1: Diana's Interview Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 12:26 am

Re-reading 'Bride' and got to thinking about this scene - this is my version of what happened behind that closed door. More to come after I've got some sleep!

Swiftly, she murmured a prayer for help as the door opened and Matron appeared with her ward. Diana looked white and miserable and her eyes were sulky. Her manner as she faced the Head, while Matron withdrew, was a mixture of defiance and fear. A moment the Head paused. Then she held out her hand and her voice was very kind as she said, ‘Come here, Diana.’ (Bride Leads the Chalet School - EBD)

Diana looked across at the Head, her deep blue eyes sunk deep in her face, she hesitated for a moment, then, gulping slightly, reached out her hand.

Miss Annersley noted that the girl was trembling slightly, she said nothing, only pulled her over to the small sofa along one wall. Enjoining the girl to sit, the Head then pulled one of the chairs across and placed it opposite Diana. She sat in the chair and looked over at the girl.

There was silence for a time, Miss Annersley watched as Diana managed to gain control of herself. As a small amount of colour returned to her cheeks, Diana appeared to suppress her fear, even lifting her chin defiantly to stare back at the Head.

“I suppose you’re going to expel me then?” She said quickly, and her voice also showed defiance. Diana lifted her eyes up to stare directly into Miss Annersley’s own eyes, what she saw there caused her to swiftly drop her gaze once more. However her defiance continued, “Well, why don’t you do it then? My parents can be here in hours, they’ll take me home!”

The Head shifted slightly in her seat, twisting round so that she was directly facing the girl, “Why do you feel that I am about to expel you?” She asked softly.

Diana looked over sharply, she gave a little laugh, “Of course you are,” she stated with authority, “You have to, after what I did…”

Miss Annersley merely looked back at Diana, holding her gaze, “Tell me what you did!” she ordered in a soft voice that, nonetheless, had a hint of steel within it.

Last edited by Lesley on Sat Sep 11, 2004 12:36 am; edited 1 time in total

#2: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 12:35 am

Lesley!!!! How dare you start another drabble when I'm going away for a week!
Especially when it's a scene I've been longing to read Sad

I love the beginning, but it's going to be days before I see the rest of it.

#3: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 6:44 am

A Lesley drabble! Hooray!

Hope you had a good sleep, Lesley Wink

#4: Author: Nicole, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 8:21 am

Fantastic start, Lesley!!

You can't stay away from those cliffs, though, can you? Wink

Looking forward to more.

#5: Author: catherine, Location: York

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 8:57 am

Great start, Lesley.

Looking forward to the rest!

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

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 9:02 am

Diana swallowed slightly then replied, “I wrecked Bride Bettany’s Study!” she said, and her voice was a little too loud.

“You seem proud of your actions,” the Head observed quietly.

Diana took a breath, “Perhaps I am,” she said, and her voice was now so quiet that Miss Annersley could barely hear it.

“Then describe to me your actions, Diana,” Miss Annersley returned, “Describe exactly, I find myself curious, having seen Bride’s Study, just how you can claim pride in your deeds.”

There was silence for a short time, then Diana spoke once more, “I asked Betsy Lucy to excuse me, I didn’t go back to Hobbies,” she began, “Told her I had to do something else.”

“Ah, you lied.” The Head’s voice was emotionless.

Diana nodded slightly, “On the way to the Study I met Marian Tovey. I thought I needed some help so I told her to come with me. She didn’t want to, but I’d caught her stealing sweets last term. Threatened to report her.”

“Blackmail and bullying of someone younger than yourself,” Miss Annersley remarked softly.

Diana flushed slightly. She took a deep breath and gathered herself, “Well, then we went and wrecked the Study. I had to tell Marian what to do. We pulled down the curtains, emptied the plant pots, threw all the books on the floor. We wrecked the place.”

“What of the pictures?”

Diana looked puzzled for a moment, “Oh, you mean the photos? Yes, I threw them in the fender and tipped up a bottle of ink over them.”

“I see,” there was silence as the Head just stared at the girl in front of her, “And you are claiming pride in these actions?”

Last edited by Lesley on Sun Sep 12, 2004 12:00 am; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 9:53 am

Wonderful Lesley! Looking forward to seeing how this develops and how Miss A deals with her.

#8: Author: ellend, Location: Bow, London

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 9:53 am

Wow!! This is great.

Miss Annersley's technique is great and explains the terrific impact of an interview with her on previous and successive culprits.

I look forward to reading a lot more when I can next access this site, as I'm away for a week.

Ellen

#9: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 10:01 am

Thank you Lesley this is fabulous, its great to have another scene being filled and I am looking forward to seeing just how Miss Annersley with deal with her. Very Happy

#10: Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September)

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 10:20 am

Thank you Lesley! I've always wanted to read this scene.

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

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 1:01 pm

Diana paused for a moment, Miss Annersley’s question had been asked with a slight tone of disbelief, she thought quickly, “She deserved it!” she said fiercely, she looked over at the Head and then visibly quailed at the look in that lady’s eyes. Mumbling slightly, Diana moved her gaze back to the floor.

When a suitable length of time had elapsed Miss Annersley spoke again. “Now why do you think that?”

Another silence, but this one stretched on and on, it seemed that Diana had no intention of answering.

“I’m waiting, Diana!” Miss Annersley’s tone was sharp and penetrated.

Diana looked up quickly, “Oh why not?” she said, a sardonic grin on her face, “You’re going to throw me out anyway. She deserved it because she forced me to apologise to Primrose and Audrey, treated me like a KG baby! They think they’re so important, the Prefects. So keen to grind everyone else down, they’re only girls, same as the rest of us, they’re nothing special!”

“They are my representatives,” returned the Head, her face showing none of her concern at Diana’s reply, “They have the responsibility of ensuring that the younger girls behave in a manner befitting a Chalet School girl and that the older girls, the Seniors, show a good example to the Juniors. Tell me Diana, you behaved badly toward the Prefects, you were rude and insolent. As they are my representatives that would seem to suggest that you would be happy to do the same to me in person. Is that correct?”

For a split second Diana felt that she could, after all she had nothing to lose, she raised her head to look Miss Annersley in the eye. In an instant her resolve faltered, she swallowed quickly, bending her head to the floor once more, she spoke, almost inaudibly, “No, Miss Annersley.”

The Head nodded, “It seems then, that we must add cowardice to the list of your crimes,” she said softly. “Yes, Diana,” she continued quickly, seeing the girl’s head rise and a look of objection on her face, “I meant cowardice, if you will only behave badly in front of the Prefects and not when speaking to me, then what other reason can there be?”

Diana thought deeply for a moment before replying, “It’s not the same,” she said eventually, “I know you say they are your representatives, but it’s not the same as being with you. They’re just girls, barely a year older than me,”

Miss Annersley forbore to correct Diana’s grammar, instead waiting for her to continue.

Diana gave a short laugh, “I respect you, Miss Annersley,” she said intently, “But how can I respect them? Their power is only there because you’ve given it to them, they’re just schoolgirls. No different to me and not even interested in the important things in life, most of them don’t even try to make anything of their looks.”

“Are your looks important to you, Diana?” Miss Annersley asked gently.

Diana nodded, “Of course,” she replied, “The world is a far easier place for those considered beautiful, and they have much more influence.”

“I would disagree,“ the Head responded, “Not very long ago, this country stood firm against a great evil. For more than a year Britain, along with her Empire, stood alone. Mr Churchill was the one primarily responsible for ensuring we stood firm,” she smiled slightly, “Not by any stretch of the imagination, could he be described as beautiful.”

“That’s different…”

Miss Annersley shook her head, “No, Diana, it is not. You seem to be under the impression that your looks accord you special status, they do not. You also seem to have a somewhat naïve impression of the Prefects’ role. You will encounter many people in the world, that are representatives of a higher authority. Not least, those of the Police, Military and Clergy among others. I would caution you not to consider them to be powerless.” The Head rose suddenly and walked over to the window, after staring outside for a short time she turned back to the girl sat on the sofa, “We have established then,” she continued, “That the reason for wrecking Bride’s Study was because you were angry at being forced to apologise for your behaviour. Is that correct?”

Diana nodded.

“I see,” Miss Annersley raised an eyebrow, “Well it seems you leave me with little choice, Diana, you have voluntarily admitted to lying, blackmail, bullying, cowardice and destruction of property, the last being a way of taking a childish vengeance on someone solely performing their duty. I must admit, I am unhappy about having someone with those qualities in this School. You are sixteen and a half years old, I cannot allow someone of that age, a Senior, to continue being such a poor role model to the younger girls.” The Head walked across to crouch next to Diana, she took her hand. “Can you not see, Diana?” she said persuasively, “That this behaviour is unacceptable? That it would not be allowed in any School?”

#12: Author: catherine, Location: York

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 1:16 pm

*shivers*

Lesley, this is wonderful. Your portrayal of Miss Annersley is always so true to the books and I don't think any of us could ever match it.

Thank you.

#13: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 3:31 pm

Wow Lesley - this is absolutely brilliant!

So glad I got back today to read it! When may we have the next installment?

#14: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 4:00 pm

Terrific, Lesley, when's the next bit due?

#15: Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 4:20 pm

I would not like to be in Diana's place right now. I've realised why so many of the scenes in the study went on 'behind closed doors'- they're far too scary for small children. Brilliant Lesley!

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

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 5:11 pm

This is brilliant Lesley. I am so glad I've never had to face Miss Annersley with anyhthing on my conscience.

#17: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 8:11 pm

Thsi is fantastic Lesley. When may we have some more? Soon please!!!!!

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

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 9:31 pm

Diana had gone rather white as the list of her crimes had been recited, she attempted to rally, “Why do you say I’m a role model? I don’t want silly kids copying me!”

“You may not want it, Diana,” returned the Head, “But it will happen nonetheless. You are not without charm and there are always going to be girls that are influenced by a pretty face. That look upon someone like yourself as a heroine. That is why Bride could not allow your behaviour to the Prefects to be overlooked.” Miss Annersley watched as her words seemed to have an effect, the girl was actually listening, taking in the softly spoken but still harsh words. The Head started to feel a little more positive.

Diana nodded slightly, “But she humiliated me, in front of everyone,” she said quickly, “Am I expected to just accept that?”

“Your punishment was fitted to the crime, Diana,” the Head replied, “Your initial rudeness to Primrose and Audrey was in front of everyone, there were a number of Juniors nearby. Why did you become so angry about apologising in front of everyone?”

Diana looked down for sometime, then, suddenly, stood up and walked across to look out of the window. Miss Annersley settled herself on the sofa, saying nothing, watching as the young girl/woman attempted, for the first time ever, to think about her behaviour.

“I-I-I don’t know,” Diana said eventually, she turned troubled blue eyes toward the Head, “I think because,” she paused, “Because it shouldn’t happen to me!” After saying this she turned to face the window once more, her back to Miss Annersley.

The Headmistress walked across to stand next to her pupil, she placed an arm around Diana’s shoulders, “And are you so very important, Diana?” she asked softly.

Diana looked up at the Head, a little startled at the question. Miss Annersley continued, “I have heard reports, Diana, throughout the term. Reports that both saddened and concerned me. All concentrating on you and on your inflated opinion of your own worth.”

Diana gave a slight laugh, it was only just not a hysterical one, “It’s not inflated, Miss Annersley, my father is very wealthy, I will be when I’m of age.”

Miss Annersley nodded, “Yes, I’m aware of your family’s wealth, but that should have no bearing on your worth here within the Chalet School. This school requires substantial fees for all pupils, Diana, therefore a number of the girls are from ‘well-to-do’ or even wealthy families. However there are also a significant number here from families with little or no money, some of whom have passed scholarships, some have fees paid by others. It should make no difference within the school environment.”

Diana stiffened slightly, her pride manifesting itself once more, “It makes a difference to me.” she said sharply, “I do not have to work for my living and I object to girls that will go into jobs telling me what to do.”

“You include the Prefects?”

“Y-y-yes,”

“What about the Staff?” Miss Annersley’s softly voiced question swept across to the girl, Diana looked up at the Head, suddenly realising what she had said. Miss Annersley nodded, “Yes Diana, the Staff all work for a living and, surprising as this may seem, I myself do not perform the duties of Headmistress solely out of love!”

#19: Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September)

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 9:37 pm

Well, that told her!!! Thank you, Lesley!

#20: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 11:02 pm

Beautifully put by Hilda. I'm glad Diana is thinking now. Thank you Lesley.

#21: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 11:29 pm

*snickering at both Hilda's last line AND someone's comment about the study scenes being unsuitable for children* I'm so glad you've taken this up, Lesley. I've wanted to read it for ages!!!

PS, does this mean that you're back in writing form and that we can expect RCS5 shortly? Very Happy

#22: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sun Sep 12, 2004 2:55 am

Somehow I doubt Diana will find a comeback for that one... Mr. Green

*would have collapsed pages ago*

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

Posted: Sun Sep 12, 2004 11:45 am

Wow. I always wanted to read this scene!

Although I was a little confused when I read: "and Matron appeared with her wand" ! - I think I need more sleep...!

*would also have collapsed pages ago!*

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

Posted: Sun Sep 12, 2004 1:22 pm

Diana shook her head from side to side, her expression suddenly aghast, “I-I-I’m sorry, Miss Annersley, I didn’t mean…”

The Head cut her off with a wave of her hand, “It doesn’t matter, Diana, other than to illustrate that you have not considered the situation. Tell me, Diana, do you love your father?”

Diana looked startled at the change in questioning, “Of course I love my father,” she replied quickly.

“I ask because I wonder if he is aware of your attitude.” Miss Annersley thought for a moment before continuing, “Your father is a very wealthy man, but he was not born as such. By his own efforts he has accrued a considerable fortune, he has also gained a great deal of respect in both the business world and society. However, by your standards, he is considered to be a pariah, someone almost beneath contempt.”

Diana swallowed sharply and took in two quick breaths, “No, no, I don’t think that, you mustn’t believe that Miss Annersley, I love my father. Please, please don‘t tell him I think that!” Her eyes were wide and pleading.

The Head noted the girl’s genuine horror, it caused her stomach to clench somewhat, however she did not allow her feelings to override her duty. “Your parents will have to know all the details, Diana,” she said softly.

Diana was crying now, large, solo tears that traced their way down her face, she fumbled in her pocket, searching for her handkerchief. Miss Annersley wordlessly passed across a fresh one. After a few minutes Diana looked across at the Headmistress,

“It never occurred to me before,” she said quietly, “About how my father made his money. I just assumed he always had money.”

Miss Annersley smiled slightly, “If you trace back any family far enough, Diana, you will discover that originally they had to have obtained the money from somewhere! Even the most aristocratic families in Europe!” Her face became solemn once more and she continued, “Regardless, here, at the Chalet School, we try to look at the girl herself, not her family or her family’s wealth, influence or power. Her character is of importance, her background far less so.”

Diana gulped slightly, “It’s so different here to my old school!”

It was no part of the Head’s remit to criticise another school in front of a pupil, so she contented herself with the following, “No two schools are alike, Diana, this school has a different ethos to your old school.”

“But it’s so difficult to change!” Diana sounded almost angry.

“Did you try?” The quiet question stopped the girl dead, she thought deeply for a moment,

“No,” she concluded, she looked across at the quiet woman opposite her and shook her head, “No, I didn’t. Even when I could see that it was different here, I didn’t even attempt to change. I just went on the same as always. At Tanswick my behaviour brought me the love and admiration of lots of girls.”

“And here?”

“Some, nothing like as many though, and mostly younger than I was.” Diana frowned slightly, “And not the girls I really wanted to like me,” she concluded quietly.

“Ah, you noticed that, did you?” Although she did not allow it to show in her voice or expression, Miss Annersley was pleased, Diana Skelton was proving that, beneath the vanity, conceit and supercilious air, she had brains, she could think. The Head continued to speak, “How did that make you feel?”

#25: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Sun Sep 12, 2004 1:39 pm

Thank you Lesley. It's really good to see the way Miss Annersley is helping Diana to reason out her thoughts and opinions and therefore allowing her to truly see her behaviour and understand it.

#26: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Sun Sep 12, 2004 3:44 pm

Don't stop Lesley! I love the way you're making Diana think for herself and realise how her behaviour affects all those around her.

May we have some more please?

#27: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sun Sep 12, 2004 4:50 pm

Please carry on Lesley!!!

This is fascinating!!!

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

Posted: Sun Sep 12, 2004 7:59 pm

This is wonderful Lesley, and it shows why a session in the study was enough ti cause so many to reform, not only would no one want to go through that again, but Miss Annersley is making her reason everything out and see what her behaviour is, the reasons for it and the results, so in effect she will reform because she understands rather than cos she will get into trouble if she doesn't.

(although i know in this case that wasn't quite the result, or if so we weren't allowed to see it as she left anyway.)

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

Posted: Sun Sep 12, 2004 10:21 pm

Diana sat on the sofa next to the Head, she turned a troubled face toward the older woman, “It made me feel angry,” she said with surprise, “The girls I attracted, they were so silly, so shallow. There were any number of other girls, nearer my own age, who seemed to be more mature. But they already had friends, they didn’t want to know me. Oh they were polite, but nothing more. Then there were the Prefects,” Diana paused here and turned to the Head, “Miss Annersley did you know that, last term, I was a Prefect at Tanswick?”

Miss Annersley nodded, “Yes, Diana, I knew, however I will never make someone a Prefect unless I feel they have earned the post.”

Diana nodded, accepting something that, before this interview had begun, would have incensed her. She swallowed slightly before continuing, “I was really angry about that,” she confessed quietly, “And about only being in the Lower Fifth, I mean I was in the top form at Tanswick.”

“We tend to place girls according to their abilities, Diana, rather than their ages,” Miss Annersley explained, “While it is not a perfect system, no system is, it does at least ensure that the mistresses are teaching at one level for each form.”

“Still it was a shock,” Diana said bitterly, she used the handkerchief to wipe her eyes again, her tears had not ceased, “When you’ve been looking forward to your last year at school, looked forward to being at the top. To suddenly find that you’re nothing again.” She paused for a moment before adding, “And the Prefects here, seeing them, with so much power, so much control. Bride Bettany as Head Girl, she had almost as much respect as you!”

Miss Annersley turned away slightly to prevent Diana seeing that she was smiling, the girl had sounded almost scandalised while saying that! She turned back, thinking deeply, “You resented Bride particularly, didn’t you Diana?” She said softly,

Diana looked across sharply, “No! Bride was nothing to me!” she said quickly, “Why do you say that?”

The Head paused, thinking, for a few moments, ”I was remembering the state of Bride’s Study,” she said eventually, “When Bride came to fetch me, last night, I remember looking around the room and seeing that pure, deep hatred had been at work. I also remember thinking of the words from the parable, ‘An enemy hath done this.’ I had not thought it possible that any schoolgirl could be so full of hatred.”

Diana looked down at the floor once more, the silent woman beside her gave no outward signs of impatience, content to allow her charge time to collect her thoughts. Diana had heard some of the Juniors refer to the Head as the Abbess, at the time she’d wondered why, now she knew. Miss Annersley’s entire demeanour invited confession. After some minutes she lifted her head.

“I never realised,” she said in a very small voice, “I mean, I hated her for what she made me do, for the apology, but it was more than that.” She frowned, trying to put her feelings into words, “She was so confident, and so right all the time, she was clever, popular…”

“In other words, Diana, you were jealous.”

#30: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Sun Sep 12, 2004 10:36 pm

ooooh Lesley this is great!

I like Hilda more and more....

#31: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Sun Sep 12, 2004 11:38 pm

*g* Good grief, Helen! Surely you don't mean you didn't like her to start with!!! Shocked

Cos if so, this may not be the best drabble to admit it.....

Lesley, this is fantabulous. The guest earlier was me, BTW. I couldn't log in.

#32: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 9:22 am

So glad you've done this, Lesley - I've had it as a thought for ages but just couldn't get down to it ... and no way could I have done it such justice!

Go Hilda!

#33: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 12:02 pm

Quote:

*g* Good grief, Helen! Surely you don't mean you didn't like her to start with!!! Cos if so, this may not be the best drabble to admit it.....

No, Lisa, that wasn't what I meant! Smile

Only that I liked her loads before, and as ever, Lesley is making her even nicer!

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

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 1:07 pm

Wonderful, thank you Lesley!

#35: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 1:09 pm

Yay, Lesley, let's have some more soon, please.

#36: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 1:52 pm

Thank you Lesley another wonderful drabble. Hilda is so wonderful, almost feel sorry for Diana.

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

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 2:11 pm

This is great Lesley. I'm so glad I never had to endure one of Hilda's conversations in the Study. She'd have me in floods in seconds!

#38: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 2:42 pm

*wonders when Lesley plans to post more......*

#39: Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September)

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 3:07 pm

This is great, Lesley! Thank you!

#40: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 4:05 pm

Vikki wrote:

*wonders when Lesley plans to post more......*

Tonight probably ...

... it's very good by the way ...

*snigger*

*resumes innocent expression*

#41: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 4:14 pm

*growls at Little Miss Smug!*

#42: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 4:20 pm

Vikki ... Vikki ...

I so knew you'd bite!!
ROFL

#43: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 4:23 pm

*giggling madly at Rachael and Vikki*

#44: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 4:23 pm

Children, children, don't spoil the nice drabble by arguing!

#45: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 4:23 pm

#46: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 4:27 pm

*still giggling*

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

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 6:15 pm

“Jealous?”

“Yes,” Miss Annersley replied firmly, “Jealous of Bride’s position and status, jealous of her popularity, jealous even of the fact that she was clever. When you were rude to the other Prefects it was Bride that insisted on an apology, Bride that forced you to apologise in front of the entire School. Her actions just consolidated that jealousy. You actively started to look for a way to punish her.”

Diana nodded slowly, “I did, I can see it now. I wanted to hurt her.” She turned a troubled face toward the Head, “I wanted her to be upset, I even enjoyed the anticipation of her discovering everything I had done.” She stopped to gulp down a lump in her throat.

“And you were even enjoying that reaction last night, Diana,” Miss Annersley pointed out softly.

“It sounds so terrible, when you say it like that,” Diana mumbled.

Miss Annersley reached across and held Diana’s shoulders, forcing the girl to meet her gaze, her blue-grey eyes stared deeply into Diana’s blue ones. “It is terrible, Diana,” the Head was firm, stiffening her resolve against the misery she saw in the girl’s expression. “You made a poor start to the term, being rude and insolent to those in authority. Your attitude toward those you thought to be ‘beneath you’ was exceptionally bad-mannered, and, incidentally, gives an extremely poor impression of your personal history and family. In addition you made no attempt to work hard, even when it was obvious that you were below the normal standard. You gathered around you a number of silly, empty-headed girls and encouraged them to do the same. I even heard reports, unproven I’ll admit, of you cheating in some classes.

Diana looked down, “Only the once,” she said quietly, “And only because I couldn’t do the lesson.”

“That is not a good enough excuse, Diana,” Miss Annersley’s voice had turned icy. She took a breath, “Now all of those actions, even the cheating, are things that the School can deal with, you are not the first silly girl that has attempted to rebel, and I’m sure there will be others.”

Diana turned red at the derision in the Head’s tone, but said nothing.

Miss Annersley continued, “However, the events of last night were no longer those of a silly girl, you had advanced to actions deemed criminal acts in normal society. I’ll recap, dishonesty, blackmail, bullying, criminal damage.” Miss Annersley sighed and shook her head sadly, “Not a good legacy to take with you into the world, Diana.” She stopped there and looked across at the girl. Diana was crying, hiding her face in the handkerchief provided by the Head, her body shaking as large sobs escaped.

#48: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 6:20 pm

This is strong stuff, Lesley.

#49: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 10:27 pm

EEEEk!

Vikki, since Rachael enjoys this gloating lark so much and will prob continue to do so into RCS5, how do you fancy cooking up a little revenge?.....................................To take place at some stage... Twisted Evil

Wonderful as ever, Lesley!

#50: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 11:36 pm

*hopes Lesley means to continue into Diana's future*

Finding it hard to see Diana doing the deeds that got her yanked out of the CS, after all this.... Shocked

Does Hilda (or anyone else) ever hear from her after that?

#51: Author: Miriam, Location: Jerusalem, Israel

Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 11:56 pm

Quote:

Finding it hard to see Diana doing the deeds that got her yanked out of the CS, after all this....

I was thinking about this. I suppose she did not have a chance to extract herself from her old friends out of school, and found herself in an awkward situation of owing money very quickly. At that point she could have realized what she had got herself into, but not known how to extract herself, and sold the rings as a desperate measure - resolving at the same time to stay out of situations like this inthe future. Unfortunately for her, she got caught out before she had a chance to make good.

Is there any chance of seeing the interview with Margot (from Ted)?

#52: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 8:09 am

It's been done somewhere ... quite a while ago so I'm not sure where in the depths of the archives it might be ... more of a communal effort ...

#53: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 10:54 am

Thank you Lesley. Glad Hilda was so firm.

Probably Diana's early way of thinking was so ingrained in her that she found it very difficult to stick to her new ideas when away from the influence of the school.

#54: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 1:21 pm

I re read the part in Bride because of this and it makes this even better Very Happy

Thank you Lesley.

I found the Margot scene Miriam, its called Margot Confesses

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

Posted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 1:27 pm

Thank you Lesley!

#56: Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull

Posted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 3:35 pm

Oooh, just read all of this in one go. It's wonderful Lesley (I'll add my agreement to the comments about you writing Hilda wonderfully).

Is there any more, by any chance?

JackieJ

#57: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 3:44 pm

This is wonderful, Lesley. You do Hilda so well.

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

Posted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 4:30 pm

The Head released Diana and stood up, walking over to her desk, her back to the crying girl. The sobs tore into her, making her ache with sympathy, she swallowed hard but then once more stiffened her resolve. Another quick murmured prayer that she be allowed to complete the interview successfully, then she turned back. Seeing that Diana was still crying she crossed to the cupboard in which there was a hand basin and cold water tap. Retrieving a glass from one of the shelves above, she rinsed it out, then filled it with cold water. Walking across to Diana she knelt beside her.

“Diana, you will make yourself ill, stop crying now,” Miss Annersley’s low tones had some effect and Diana took some deep breaths, trying to stop her tears. She took the glass of water from the Head and sat there slowly sipping from it. There was only the occasional catch in her breath now. She looked across at the woman knelt beside her.

“I didn’t think about what I was doing,” she said, somewhat pathetically.

“That is self-evident, Diana,” Miss Annersley retorted dryly, “I do not believe, until now, that you have considered exactly why you were behaving in such a fashion.”

“No one ever told me before, that what I was doing was wrong.” Diana continued, “My parents never said that I shouldn’t act in this way.” She sounded almost hurt, as though realising, for the first time, that her parents might not have been right.

Miss Annersley half smiled, “What you do when a child, when very young, can be excused, but once you start on the road to adulthood, you must make decisions for yourself. You must take on responsibility for your own actions, and bear the consequences of those actions.”

“Yes, I see that,” Diana’s voice was very small, “It never occurred to me before.”

“Then it’s high time that it did, Diana,” The Head’s tones were a mixture of admonishment and sympathy, “You didn’t consider how the people you were victimising would feel. How Marian and Bride would feel. I wonder, had an intruder managed to enter your room at home, how you would feel. If they had destroyed your possessions with the same enthusiasm that you destroyed Bride’s?”

Diana thought deeply, her face turning white then red, “I would have hated it,” she whispered, “All my things, trampled underfoot, my room wrecked, my…” She stopped, shock on her face, as a thought occurred. “Miss Annersley? The photographs, the ones I poured ink over. What were they?”

“They were photographs of Bride’s parents and brothers and sisters,” the Head replied gently, “Her family.”

“Oh no!” It was a heartfelt cry, Diana began to cry once more, she looked over at the woman beside her, “I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m really sorry.” Diana’s voice was barely audible, “I can never repay that, her family, and I’ve destroyed them.” She took a deep breath, then, “I know I’m expelled, Miss Annersley, but please, can I write to Bride? Tell her I’m sorry? I’ll pay for all the other damage, I promise, but I can't repair the photos.” At this last she broke down completely.

On hearing this Miss Annersley acted, she sat next to Diana on the sofa and drew the girl into her arms, Diana continued to sob into the Head’s comforting shoulder. Miss Annersley held the girl tight, stroking her golden curls and uttering a small prayer of thanks.

#59: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 4:40 pm

What can I say, Lesley?

#60: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 4:51 pm

Jennie wrote:

What can I say, Lesley?

More!!

Speechless Lesley - you're a genius at writing. Please let us know what happens next! Im hoping it will be different from EBD's version, I hope Hilda lets her stay...

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

Posted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 5:55 pm

Kat wrote:

Jennie wrote:

What can I say, Lesley?

More!!

Speechless Lesley - you're a genius at writing. Please let us know what happens next! Im hoping it will be different from EBD's version, I hope Hilda lets her stay...

Er, Kat, in EBD's version Hilda did let her stay. Confused

#62: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 6:35 pm

Oops! Sorry! Been a while since I read Bride Embarassed

In that case - please do the EBD and let her stay! Very Happy

#63: Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 7:43 pm

Miss Annersley is a miracle worker; it's wonderful watching it all happen (well, reading it happen). Thanks Lesley!

*hopes for more*

#64: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 9:07 am

Brilliant as usual Lesley!

#65: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 4:30 pm

Perfect, Lesley - love that the catalyst was the family photographs

#66: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 4:41 pm

Er Lesley... where's the rest?

Laughing

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

Posted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 5:09 pm

For information - the text in italics is original text from EBD

Rocking slightly, to further sooth the girl, Miss Annersley spoke, “It’s all right, Diana, calm down now. Everything will be fine.” Her low voice projected all the sympathy and empathy possible. When the storm was over, Diana remained with her head resting on Miss Annersley’s shoulder. Only the occasional catch in her breath remained to show how fierce her bout of tears had been. The Head allowed her a few more minutes to recover before speaking once more.

“Listen to me, Diana,” and the soft tones held a definite solemnity, “Your behaviour and your actions are enough to warrant expulsion, however, this School is, and I am, reluctant to impose the ultimate penalty if there is even a chance that the girl might reform. I am prepared to allow you to remain at the Chalet School.”

Diana lifted her head, she smiled slightly through her tears, “Last night, even first thing this morning, I wanted to leave. Now I want to stay, thank you.”

Miss Annersley lifted a hand, and her tone took on a warning note, “Think carefully, Diana, because you will not find staying here to be easy.”

Diana looked puzzled and the Head continued.

“The entire School knows of your actions, Diana, both toward Bride and Marion. Bride is very popular and you will face criticism from many of the girls, you will also have to face everyone after confessing that you bullied Marion. It will not be easy for you.”

Diana thought for a moment, “I understand, Miss Annersley, I deserve the criticism, I can accept it.”

“In addition Diana, you will have to accept punishment for your actions, and here I must show my full disgust and disappointment, the penalties will be severe.”

Diana gulped slightly, “What must I do?” she asked fearfully.

Miss Annersley thought for a moment, her eyes not leaving the girl’s face, “Until the end of term, you will be excluded from all school privileges, I believe you are already aware of the activities that constitute school privileges?”

Diana nodded slightly, “Bride told me,” she said quietly.

“Very well,” the Head continued, “The one exception I will make is the day of the Sale itself, you may attend that. In addition, for the next week you will remain in isolation, apart from lessons you will remain in the inner room of the San, you will not be allowed to associate with any of the girls.”

At this Diana went white and Miss Annersley added gently, “I will not require that Nurse secures the door, Diana. However, once you rejoin your form, whenever the others are left alone on their honour, you must immediately seek out a mistress or Prefect.”

At this Diana starting sobbing once more, distraught at the obvious allusion to her lack of honour.

“Your actions last night proved that you considered that you could ignore the fact that you had been left on your honour.” Miss Annersley said, even while hugging her. “You lied to Betsy Lucy, forced Marian to join you and then wrecked Bride’s Study.”

“I-I-I’ll never do it again, Miss Annersley, I promise!” Diana spoke between sobs.

“I hope not, but in view of all this, how can we trust you immediately, Diana?” the Head asked half-sadly. “I am sorry for it, but for this term, at any rate, you must always be in the charge of someone. I hope that next term it will be different. But that depends on yourself, you know.”

#68: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 8:05 pm

That was a true tear-jerker, Lesley.

#69: Author: Kelly, Location: Auckland, New Zealand

Posted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 8:16 pm

Thank you Lesley.
This is absolutely wonderful.

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

Posted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 8:29 pm

That was superb. Thank you Lesley.

#71: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 9:07 pm

Thank you Lesley, nice to see this in its entireity.

#72: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 9:26 pm

*Thinks Lesley must have been there eavesdropping*

No one writes Hilda like you do Lesley! Superb as ever Laughing

#73: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 9:45 pm

Beautiful Lesley!!!

Shame Diana messed up again so soon!

#74: Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 11:53 pm

Poor Diana. I know she was awful but you've made me feel sympathy for her Lesley. Beautiful as always.

#75: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 8:04 am

Brilliant (of course!) - exactly as it would have happened Very Happy

*mosies off to include this in own copy of Bride*

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

Posted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 9:59 am

Wonderful! Thank you, Lesley!

#77: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 1:42 pm

I hope the next bit is underway, Lesley.

#78: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 3:34 pm

I can safely confirm that it's been written if that helps?
*ever helpful!*

And jolly good is it too!!! Mr. Green

#79: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 3:40 pm

OK, Miss Smugness!

#80: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 4:38 pm

Wonderful, Lesley! Are you going to let us see the sorry sequel? Cos after all, Hilda just tells Bride about it...

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

Posted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 6:35 pm

Penultimate bit!

Diana nodded, swallowing her tears, “I understand, Miss Annersley,” she said softly, “I have to prove myself.” There was a pause, then she continued, “And I will, I’ll show you I can be trusted.”

The Head smiled, “I hope so,” she said simply, she pushed Diana slightly away from her to look into her eyes once more, “You mentioned paying for the damage, Diana, and I believe that would be a good gesture. However there is one more thing that you have to do.”

The girl looked into Miss Annersley’s eyes, “What is it?” she asked, somewhat fearfully.

“You must apologise to Bride, in person, a written apology will not be sufficient. After your actions of last night, you will need to speak to Bride directly.”

There was silence for quite some time, Diana sat, her eyes downcast, Miss Annersley waited, aware that, more than anything else, this represented a direct attack on Diana’s pride. After some minutes Diana looked up again, “Please, Miss Annersley, can I do it now? This minute? If I leave it I don’t know if…” her voice faded.

Miss Annersley smiled and nodded; “Wait just one minute Diana,” she said quickly. She rose and walked over to her desk and lifted the telephone, “Miss Dene? Could you please ask Bride Bettany to come to my Study immediately? Thank you.”

The Study remained silent for some minutes until the sound of footsteps and a knock on the door heralded the arrival of the Head Girl. Miss Annersley raised Diana to her feet before calling out, “Enter!”

Once Diana had made her apology and Bride had accepted it, Miss Annersley dismissed Bride back to her normal class, before she also dismissed Diana she took the opportunity to speak to her once more.

“Well done, Diana, I know that cannot have been easy,” The Head smiled across at the girl and, after a short pause, Diana returned the smile. “Now, I’m going to send you back to the San in a moment, but before you go I wanted to say a little more.” She indicated the sofa once more and Diana sat down. Miss Annersley sat opposite her and reached for her hands.

“Diana, this episode has probably left you feeling that you have no one that you can speak to, left you feeling completely alone. The fact that you will be in solitude for the next week will emphasise that feeling. But please remember that there is still one person who will listen to you, help you and love you.”

As Diana looked puzzled the Head continued, “I’m speaking of God, Diana,” she said simply, “God is there for you and He will always love you. If you are truly repentant then He will forgive you wholeheartedly and without reservation. All He requires from you is your love.”

Diana had flushed slightly on hearing these words, her faith, before, had always been very shallow, hearing these words, and from someone that obviously had a deep and abiding faith themselves, seemed to promise that she too could find love. “I’ll remember, Miss Annersley,” she said subdued, “Though I expect I’ve been a disappointment to Him!”

Miss Annersley smiled and reached across to kiss the girl’s cheek, “You will only be a disappointment if you cannot use this experience to repent,” she said gently. “Just ensure that you are honest and that you do your best. And Diana? If you have any worries or concerns, you can always come and speak to me. My door is open every evening.” She stood up and pulled Diana to her feet, “Now, be off with you, unfortunately I have other affairs to see to. I’ll be in to visit you this evening.”

Diana smiled slightly and suddenly hugged the Headmistress, surprising herself with her audacity. “Thank you,” she said rather indistinctly, “Thank you for everything!”

Later, after the Head had pronounced Judgement on Marian Tovey, and then assembled the entire School to inform them of her decision, she returned to her Study. For a time, rather than sit at the desk and make a start on the piles of letters, essays, bills and receipts, she stood by the window, staring out at the landscape. A sound behind her and she turned to see Miss Dene entering,

“Afraid there’s even more correspondence in the second post, Hilda,” the School Secretary smiled apologetically.

“That’s all right, Rosalie,” Miss Annersley smiled ruefully, “I’ll just have to try and catch up, the events of last night and this morning have placed me well behind.”

“But you managed to settle them both, though, didn’t you?”

The Head sighed, “I hope so, Rosalie, I really do hope so.”

#82: Author: Alex, Location: Manchester

Posted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 7:25 pm

This has inspired me to reread Bride (at the expense of packing for Uni).

#83: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 8:47 pm

Wondeful Lesley!!

Now, when do we get the ultimate part???? Wink

#84: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 8:21 am

Today I hope - cos if she hasn't written it, I won't get to see it 'til Monday!! Shocked

Superb, Lesley!
Particularly the last line where Hilda doesn't seem completely convinced - leaves it nicely open for what's to come

#85: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 10:52 am

Thank you Lesley.

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

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 12:40 pm

Last bit - sorry, turned into a novel!

Late in the next term

“Yes; you may well cry,” she said impressively. “I would not have believed that we had five girls so disobedient, selfish and untrustworthy in the school. I am utterly ashamed to think that you are members of the Chalet School!”(Changes for the Chalet School - EBD)

Miss Annersley bit her lip to prevent herself from smiling at the reactions from the five sinners. Prudence and Priscilla Dawbarn, Primrose Trevoase, Peggy Harper and Carol Soames were all sobbing, indeed Carol produced a low howl at this point. The Head continued, “For the rest of term you will be placed in separate dormitories - it is clear that I cannot trust you together, you will not be allowed to join in any of the form picnics, and you are banned from competing in the Regatta. Now go away, all of you! I’ve seen more than enough of you for today!”

She watched as the five trailed disconsolately from her Study and then lifted the house phone to contact Matey and give a swift instruction. Then, once sure the five had left earshot, she gave vent to a slight laugh, “Don’t they think me an ogre!” she said to herself. At that moment the telephone rang and, still giggling slightly she answered it. “Chalet School, Hilda Annersley, Headmistress, speaking.”

“Well you certainly sound happier than the last time I spoke to you!” A well known voice replied.

“Nell Wilson!” Miss Annersley’s face split into a wide smile on hearing her great friend, “What on Earth are you doing phoning me from Switzerland, it must be costing a fortune! There’s nothing wrong is there?”

“No, nothing wrong, my dear, just wanted to clarify your travel arrangements and day of arrival in Switzerland. As it’s getting close I thought I’d speak in person.”

“Oh, all right then,” As the Chalet School was moving to Switzerland the next term the Head would be spending the holidays out there.

The next few minutes the two friends spent going over arrangements, then, “Well now that’s settled, explain!” Miss Wilson ordered, “This entire term you’ve been under a cloud, because of that Diana Skelton affair. What’s suddenly amused you so much you’re laughing out loud?”

“Oh only the latest from the Middles!” Miss Annersley described the events of the night before and the aftermath in her Study that morning, By the end Miss Wilson was also chuckling. After a few more quick words she then rang off with a promise that she’d meet Miss Annersley from the train.

After replacing the receiver the Head sat back in her chair, thinking, Her mind flew back to the last term and her interview with Diana Skelton, she also remembered the letter she had received from Mr Skelton only days before the new term had begun. She sighed, it was true, to a certain extent she had felt depressed following that letter. To realise that the girl had obviously behaved badly, that she hadn’t meant all that she had promised so faithfully that morning. Oh she knew that Diana’s upbringing was at fault, but she had felt that the girl was going to change.

Her thoughts were interrupted by a knock at the door, looking up Miss Annersley saw Miss Dene with another pile of letters.

“Sorry about this, Hilda, I weeded out all those I can deal with.” Miss Dene was very apologetic as she passed across a pile of some twenty envelopes to the Head. “Perhaps, once we’re at the Gornetz Platz, it’ll be more difficult for everyone to find you!”

Miss Annersley laughed, “I really wish I could believe that, Rosalie!”

As the School Secretary left, Miss Annersley turned her attention to the letters, Rosalie had sorted them into obviously business and personal, and, feeling very slightly rebellious, she decided to look at the personal ones first. Opening the first, she didn’t recognise the handwriting and so she turned to the signature to read the name, it was Diana Skelton. With some surprise she read the letter.

Dear Miss Annersley,

I wanted to write to you sometime ago, to explain what happened. I wanted to let you know why I’d not be returning to the Chalet School. Then, after father wrote, I felt too ashamed, he told me that he’d explained exactly why he’d removed me from school, and I knew you’d be disappointed in me. I was disappointed in myself. Now though, I feel I can write, explain what happened, and what I’ve been doing the last few months.

When I came home, the end of last term, I really did mean to change. I don’t know if you realised, Miss Annersley, but what you said to me, that day in your Study, really made me think. For the first time I actually thought about the type of person I was, and I didn’t like myself very much. Then, the last few weeks at School, although they were hard, they were also good, I had very few people actually make fun of me, or show their contempt, made me even more ashamed in a way, because if it had been someone else I’m sure I’d have been at the front of those wanting to make the person feel even worse than they already did.

Anyway, I got home determined to start afresh, I don’t mean I was going to become a star pupil Miss Annersley, even you can’t work miracles!

(At this Miss Annersley smiled, Diana had been realistic, it seems.)

But I did intend to change my behaviour, become closer to the ‘ideal’ Chalet School girl. The only problem was, at home, I still had the same friends as always, and they weren’t impressed at me changing. I’ve done any number of things that girls aren’t ‘supposed’ to do, I’ll not list everything, it’ll be too embarrassing, but one thing was that I used to gamble with cards. At the time, I owed a lot of money. My friends were never worried before, after all, my dad was ‘Skelton's Glues’ and I had pots of money. But when I said I wasn’t going to play cards anymore they demanded the money back. I panicked, I didn’t have enough money of my own, it had all gone to paying back the damages to Bride’s Study. I couldn’t ask my father as that would mean he’d have to know about what I’d done. So I took a couple of mum’s rings and sold them, to pay off the debt.

No need to tell me how stupid that was, I’ve had the last few months to work it out. Dad was so angry, and I couldn’t blame him, especially as everything had to come out, everything I’d done at home, and what happened at school. So for the last few months, instead of being back at school, showing you that I’d reformed, I’ve been working. Dad decided that I must pay back the cost of the rings and got me a job as the office junior in one of his offices. Part of the punishment was that I’m not allowed to tell anyone who I really am, they all know me as Diana Smith here, and I must not only pay off the debt but live on the money I earn.

It’s not been easy, but I’ve managed, and I think, finally, that I’ve started to earn dad’s respect again. I hope so. I don’t know what the plan is for the future but once I’ve paid off the debt dad said I can come back home, after that he said we can start afresh once more. This time I’ll not mess up.

Thank you for all you said and did for me last term, your words and what you made me think for myself, have really helped. My only regret is that I couldn’t show you in person.

Yours sincerely

Diana Skelton

Miss Annersley read through the entire letter twice, then quickly wiped a small tear from her eyes. She placed the letter on her pile of those to be answered immediately, and then turned to the rest of her work.

THE END

Last edited by Lesley on Fri Sep 17, 2004 7:54 pm; edited 2 times in total

#87: Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 12:48 pm

Thank you Lesley. I've not read Bride, so I don't really know the background to the scene. But you really do write Hilda well, and Diana is really alive in this as well. Maybe you should write all the study scene's, it would certainly be interesting to read (plus there's less chance of cliffs tongue

JackieJ

#88: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 12:54 pm

Gulp! THank you Lesley, you have taken all the facts that we have and written a wonderful story with them.

This will be another that I will be keeoing in min whilst reading Bride and Changes.

#89: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 1:33 pm

Thank you for that, Lesley! Brilliant as always Smile

and it gave me a quiz answer too - thanks!!

#90: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 1:40 pm

Perfect, Lesley!

So pleased that Diana has changed and that she saw fit to write to Hilda to explain things

Congrats!

Yay - I stayed on at work and got to see this!!

#91: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 2:08 pm

Thannks Lesley. That really fills out the books brilliantly.

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

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 3:17 pm

Wonderful. Thank you Lesley. Fill the gaps perfectly.

#93: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 3:19 pm

Thank you Lesley!!! That was as beautifully handled as ever!!!!!!

Looking forward to your next writing project....... Wink

#94: Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!!

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 3:19 pm

Thank you Lesley, and a perfect explanation of how Diana got into trouble again. Very Happy

#95: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 4:56 pm

er Lesley, since this is now finished, will RCS Five be starting soon??? Very Happy

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

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 5:09 pm

October 18th.

#97: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 5:15 pm

WOO HOO!!! Very Happy

*Happy dancing going on around the computer room*

#98: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 6:53 pm

*marks Oct 18th on calender in bright red pen*

#99: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 7:05 pm

Thank you, Lesley, that was wonderful.

#100: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 10:44 pm

Thanks so much for adding depth to the Diana story!
*finds Lesley's "ending" much more satisfying than the EBD version*

*marks down Oct. 18th as a Significant Day*

#101: Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 11:36 pm

Thanks Lesley - I loved seeing how Miss Annersley made Diana think about her actions, and that she did have a lasting effect on the girl.

*can't wait for October 18th* Very Happy

#102: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2004 1:47 am

Fantastic!!!!

RCS5? *snickers* Well I hate to break it to you people, but I've had a sneak preview of the first post....

*joins the gloating brigade*

#103: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2004 3:17 pm

Oh look! Lisa has a pair of 'Little Miss Smuggy Pants' knickers too!!!!! Rolling Eyes

#104: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2004 3:21 pm

Vikki - you're not a tad envious that you don't have a pair are you?!!

They're very fashionable this season, don't you know!! Laughing

#105: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2004 3:31 pm

If you say so dear!!! Rolling Eyes

The lime green with orange writing and gold lace trim is a bit gaudy for my taste to be honest...... Wink

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

Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2004 3:34 pm

Yes but Vikki - the writing says

I have advance postings of Real Chalet School or WL

For that you'll accept any colouring!! Laughing

#107: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2004 3:38 pm

Well, I wouldn't know! Since no-one has OFFERED me any sneak peeks!!

*nobody loves me* Crying or Very sad

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

Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2004 3:39 pm

Thanks Lesley!

But what was the EBD ending? *hasn't read any of that period of chalet for years *

#109: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2004 3:42 pm

Psst, Vikki - you'll never get anywhere if you sit around waiting to be OFFERED a sneak preview!! Shocked

You're standing on ceremony, my love - get in there and start bargaining!!

*offers consolatory hug*

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

Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2004 3:43 pm

Laura, in Changes, near the beginning, Miss A speaks to Bride - she tells her that Diana will not be returning to the CS because her father had caught her trying to pay off a gambling debt using two of her mother's rings.

There's some discussion about how stupid Diana was (Bride) and how lucky Bride is (Miss A) but that's it. To my knowledge Diana is never mentioned again.

I just felt she deserved a chance at redemption.

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

Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2004 3:46 pm

Yep - I definately prefer yours Lesley!

#112: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2004 3:46 pm

Rachael wrote:

Psst, Vikki - you'll never get anywhere if you sit around waiting to be OFFERED a sneak preview!! Shocked

You're standing on ceremony, my love - get in there and start bargaining!!

*offers consolatory hug*

But, but, I COULDN't be so forward!!!!! I am a shy and retiring type!

#113: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2004 3:48 pm

Whatever!! Rolling Eyes

#114: Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!!

Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2004 3:54 pm

*goes off to cry........*

Why does NO ONE ever believe me???

#115: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2004 4:18 pm

There, there, Vikki, don't cry! Offers Vikki a big box of tissues and lots of chocolate.

#116: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2004 4:45 pm

Quote:

I just felt she deserved a chance at redemption.

She certainly did! It didn't seem fair for EBD simply to drop her that way, so I'm most glad you picked up the ball!

Vikki- Think of it this way. Do you think you could stand waiting on a Lesley cliff for a MONTH??? (If you think you can Shocked

, you might try baiting her with some newly written New Family. That way we'd all win Very Happy

)

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

Posted: Sat Sep 18, 2004 7:26 pm

Love the way you use the EBD ending and still redeem Diana as much as possible.

This was great.

Yet another to niminate, how can I keep it to 3???

#118: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Sun Sep 19, 2004 1:03 am

Wonderful Lesley, I am so convinced it really happened like that, and I'm glad that Diana did get the chance to make good in the end.

Thanks ever so for writing that scene - I think that is the 'behind closed doors' that I most wanted to read.

And now there's RCS 5 to look forward to Very Happy

#119: Author: Miriam, Location: Jerusalem, Israel

Posted: Sun Sep 19, 2004 11:24 pm

The fact that we don't see Diana again doesn't mean that she never got a chance to back to school. Maybe after this her father prefered to keep her close to home, and sent her to the English branch, rather than the Swiss one.

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

Posted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 4:19 am

The Chalet School didn't go to Switzerland until the next term, Diana, at sixteen and a half in Bride Leads, would have been too old, if she had returned to anything it would have been to Welsen. After what had happened I don't think that likely, she would have been mentioned.

Of course, this is all conjecture anyway, but I don't think she would have returned to any School.

#121: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 11:17 am

You're probably right, Lesley. she was most likely to have been kept at home to help her mother.

#122: Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September)

Posted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 12:05 pm

Didn't her father keep at home? I remember something about her in Changes.

Quote:

Again Bride opened her eyes, but she said nothing. She waited with what patience she could to hear the real reason for her summons; but the Head seemed in no hurry to tell her. However, she spoke at last.
“I needn’t ask if you remember Diana Skelton, Bride?”

Bride shot her a quick glance; but she only said, “No, Auntie Hilda.”

“No; what Diana did to you last term will, I am afraid, remain in your mind for some time to come, thought I hope you will find sooner or later that you can forget as well as forgive. What I have to tell you is about her. And I want to say this, Bride. Sorry as I was for you last term over your wrecked study, I am a thousand times sorrier for Diana.” *

“Oh?” Bride murmured. She could think of nothing else to say.
The Head remained silent for a moment or two. Bride could bear it no longer. “Auntie Hilda – what’s gone wrong?” She asked fearfully. “I did forgive Diana last term. And on the last night she got hold of me and said she was really sorry and she meant to prove it to all of us by the way she behaved this term”

“I’m glad to hear that, Bride, for Diana will have no chance to prove her words. She is not returning to school.”

“But why?” Bride asked blankly.

“Because that is her father’s decision. No, child, it has nothing to do with what happened last term. So far as I know, Mr Skelton has heard nothing about it. I believe Diana meant what she said to you. I am sure she did. Only she wanted to get rid of all her former ties. In order to do this, the poor, silly girl did something which her father finds unforgivable at present, though I hope that later on he will realise that her actions were partly the result of the spoiling and indulgence she has always had at home.”

“But what has she done at home?” Bride asked. “I – I mean what she does at home hasn’t anything to do with us here, has it?”

“It ought not to have. Unfortunately, one other girl, still here, knows all about I and though I have seen her and forbidden her to say anything, I don’t know that I can trust her. That’s why I am telling you the story so that, if necessary, you can deal with any unkind gossip there may be. Poor Diana is paying heavily enough for her sins as it is.”

Bride remained silent. She was trying to think what any girl could do that would make her parents remove her from the school at sixteen. The Head knew this and she spoke abruptly.

“Girls like you, Bride, have a great deal to be thankful for. You have wise parents who have looked after you and certainly not spoil you. Diana was allowed to go her own way. Unfortunately, it was a way that was very wrong for a little schoolgirl. She has done all sorts of things that girls of your age should know nothing about. Among other things, she has been playing cards for money. She lost a great deal more than she could pay and in order to pay it she took two of her mother’s rings and tried to sell them.”

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

Posted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 7:42 pm

Gem, read the last post of this drabble - it's set after the bit you quoted. We were talking about later - after Changes etc - whether or not she ever returned. Smile

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