The CBB :: View topic - Joey's Wonderful Life

#1: Joey's Wonderful Life Author: Rachael,

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 9:38 am

Yes, it's a sort of crossover (no prizes for guessing with what Rolling Eyes

) but more of a blatant stealing of the premise ... and will require the suspension of your disbelief!!

The dark expanse of sky was vast, unbroken except for the stars twinkling merrily as two greater beings discussed the latest events on earth.
“It’s no use, Gabriel, we will have to send someone down there.”
“Agreed, Joseph. What are your thoughts?”
“Well, it’s a little unusual but I think this calls for someone experienced. This is a more complicated case than George Bailey and to send an angel who hasn’t earned their wings would be foolhardy …”
“Clarence again?”
“No, not Clarence. He did an amazing job with George but this requires a feminine touch.”
“Who did you have in mind?
“I wonder whether it may require more than one angel, but there’s certainly one individual who has been watching this case with interest and I know she’s keen to help.”
“Then by all means send her. Is she briefed?”
“Oh yes, she’s just waiting for the word.”
“She has my blessing, Joseph. I hope that she is able to make a difference. Such despair is rare.”
“It is indeed. Thank you, Gabriel. I’ll tell her straight away.”

***

Joey Maynard tore the paper out of the old typewriter and scanned it quickly with mounting frustration. Impulsively, she ripped the page in two, crumpled the pieces together and lobbed them into the bin. Inserting another sheet, she typed a chapter title, then flicked the lever across to move the paper through. It jammed again, for the umpteenth time that day. Frustrated, she smacked the machine with her fist and then had to spend the next few seconds adjusting the ribbon and easing it back into place. Leaving her desk, she moved across to the large French windows, and flung them open to admit the fresh mountain air. She took a deep breath and gazed into the middle distance, oblivious to the towering peaks before her. It had all become too much. Over the past year or so, she had become ever more disgruntled with life, a discontent which had increased to a deeper depression that she was simply incapable of shaking off.

#2: Author: Ray, Location: Bristol, England

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 9:56 am

Ooh eekk!

Ray *balanced precariously awaiting more*

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

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 11:57 am

Ooooh!!!!!
This promises to be even better than the Casablanca one (possibly because I have actually SEEN the film this time.... Wink

)

*hoping for more soon please!!!*

#4: Author: Rachel, Location: Plotting in my lair

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 12:54 pm

Lucky you Vikki - this is another one of those films I keep meaning to watch but haven't yet got round to.

Doesn't stop me enjoying the story though Rachael!

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

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 12:59 pm

Maybe we could watch it on the Sunday morning of the SG?
Like we did Mary Poppins...... Rolling Eyes

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

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 1:37 pm

Extremely intrigued Rachael, please write some more soon!!!

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

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 2:50 pm

Looking good already...though like RTW this is one film that i've always meant to watch and never quite got round to...

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

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 2:54 pm

looking great Rachel. I've never seen the film (I'm always way too cynical at Christmas, which is when it always seems to be on), but I know the basic plot line.

Now I think you know whats coming next.......

More please!! Smile

#9: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 2:55 pm

Rachael, get back here and write some more!

#10: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 4:00 pm

*wondering whether to extend the SG for another day so we can have an extended TV session watching Island at War, Casablanca, It's A Wonderful Life, Mary Poppins, The Sound of Music ...*

*suddenly realises this is a very bad idea Shocked

*

Her family were growing up quickly and had all but flown the nest. The nursery had been empty now for some years and Joey missed the hurly-burly of babies, toddlers and small fry all clamouring for her attention. Felicity, like Margot before her, was proving to be an extremely competent Games Prefect who had made the position her own, quickly nipping any comparison to her eldest sibling in the bud. She had been accepted into the Royal School of Ballet, much to her parents’ delight, although when Joey had time to reflect on this achievement, she could not help but mourn the fact that once her daughter began her intense training regime she would barely see her except in performances. Harum-scarum Cecil was now gracing the Senior School having just scraped a remove to Lower Fifth B. As a middle, she had fully earned her reputation as an imp of the first water but now that she was a Senior, albeit a very junior Senior, she was beginning to show signs of steadying and looked to Felicity and Len, rather than her mother, for much of her advice and guidance.

Youngest daughter Phil was the last of the Maynard offspring to attend the Chalet School. Having recovered fully from the health problems of her formative years, she was now a recognised leader amongst the Middles. It was too soon to say whether she would follow in the lofty footsteps of her sisters and one day become a prefect but she was a bright spark whom others followed. Even little Marie-Claire, the youngest of the Maynards’ wards was a well-established Junior and a very independent young lady at that who did not appreciate too much questioning and interference from her surrogate mother. She had bonded closely with Erica Standish, another of the Maynards’ wards and when possible chose to confide in her rather than Joey. The four schoolgirls seldom bothered to pop back home to Freudesheim, even at weekends.

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

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 4:23 pm

Thinks Rachael's suggestion about an extended SG is a brilliant one!!! Very Happy

This is looking good! Can't help wondering who the angel will be......

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

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 4:38 pm

Thanks Rachael, the idea fits so well with her children growing up and needing her less and less.

What about Mdlle Lepattre as the angel? I'm struggling to think of those who died, as there weren't very many.

#13: Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 5:36 pm

Joey's mother? Luigia di Ferrara? Suzanne Mercier?

I can think of others, but I'd be scraping the barrel.

#14: Author: Ray, Location: Bristol, England

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 5:41 pm

Doris Trelawny?

Ray *isn't sure why that should have been my first reaction*

#15: Author: Angel, Location: London, England

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 5:46 pm

*loves this*

*hooks self to the Zipwire of drabbledom*

#16: Author: Amanda M, Location: Wakefield

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 5:52 pm

Looking forward to reading more of this.

Also wondering who the angel will turn out to be.

Star Wars

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

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 7:42 pm

Brilliant, and I can't decide who the angel is, although following from Ray, I think Gran would be good!

#18: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 8:19 pm

What a good idea!

*Waits with anticipation and growing impatience to find out who it is*

#19: Author: Nicki, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 8:27 pm

I can tell this is going to be good!

More please!! Very Happy

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

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 8:32 pm

La la la la! I know who the angel is. And I've read more of this. Laughing

*Really loves it when Rachael posts so I can practice my gloating!!*

#21: Author: Lulie, Location: Middlesbrough

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 8:54 pm

to Lesley!

The angel could be the Grandma out of "Gay". She'd soon sort Joey out with a firm talking to and lots of heavenly peppermints Laughing

#22: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 9:53 pm

Lulie wrote:

to Lesley!

The angel could be the Grandma out of "Gay". She'd soon sort Joey out with a firm talking to and lots of heavenly peppermints Laughing

Oh, I love that idea, I don't somehow think it will be her though, but then again, I really don't have a clue.
I've never got around to watching this film either, but I do, basically, know what it's about. Lookiing forward to more.

#23: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Tue Jul 20, 2004 11:12 pm

*seriously contemplates violence to both Lesley and Rachael*

Rachael, more would be lovely Laughing

#24: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Wed Jul 21, 2004 2:21 am

hmmmmmmm
If (A) Joey requires archangel,
then (B) Raphael(la) has most experience with healing,
but then (C) "Oh, Rafe," sobs Joey, having inevitably shortened archangel's name....

*gives up and waits for Rachael*

#25: Author: Nicole, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Wed Jul 21, 2004 6:23 am

lol at Kathy.

I *love* It's a Wonderful Life - the ultimate in feel good movies when you're feeling down.

How about Mlle Lepattre as the angel??

More please, Rachel!! Very Happy

#26: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Wed Jul 21, 2004 8:15 am

Lesley - I'm shocked ... Shocked

... shocked at such gloating! Wink

*loving the idea of Grandma from "Gay" as the angel but her telling Joey to snap out if and have a peppermint would indeed make the drabble rather short!!*

The others kept in touch but they all had their own careers and families to attend to and Joey was sure that it was not her imagination that contact over the last few months had been even more sparse than usual. Len, for example, had recently been promoted to Head of Modern Languages at the Chalet School and was taking on increasing administrative responsibilities now that she was being groomed as a potential Headmistress. The last time Joey had seen her, she had been too busy to even stop long enough for a cup of tea. She had been distracted and abrupt with Joey, evading her mother’s questions and keen to return to her own home. Len had married Dr Entwistle after graduating from Oxford and it niggled Joey that her firstborn had still not presented her with a grandchild, although not for worlds would she have admitted this to anyone except Jack. Secretly, she longed to be a grandmother, feeling that the advice and help she could bring would be invaluable assistance given that Len had expressed her own desire to flaunt convention and balance teaching with motherhood. Something that Joey had not admitted to herself was that she simply craved to be needed again.

Con had eventually married Dr Hamilton, Neil Sheppard’s young friend, much to the chagrin of Roger Richardson, and they had made their home on the other side of the Gornetz Platz. Con wrote a weekly column for one of the British dailies and had not only published a slim volume of poetry to critical acclaim but had also been commissioned to write a historical biography. Joey had felt conflicting emotion on hearing this news. On the one hand she had been thrilled and proud of the daughter who had inherited her mother’s gift for bringing characters to life. On the other, she was acutely conscious that Con’s talent was the greater and when she allowed herself to dwell on the matter, she could feel twangs of jealousy. In some ways, she felt that her position as family author had been usurped. Her latest novel had been rejected by the publisher’s as outdated and even the historical text on Napoleon that she had been working on for years had been rejected due to market saturation. It was a bitter pill to swallow and one that she had declined to share with anyone else, not even Jack.

As for Margot, she was on the other side of the world. She had finally won the battles with her devil and after studying medicine at Edinburgh and much soul-searching she had taken her vows and entered the Blue Nuns. She now worked as a medical missionary and was currently in the rainforests of South America. Communication from her was few and far between. Joey understood this but a dull ache was never far from her stomach. The sturdy woman who she had given to the Church and to whom she had given her blessing was never far from her thoughts, as was the little girl who had weeped piteously as she had waved to her family from the docks as the big ship left with her and her Auntie Madge and family to Canada. The weight of guilt occasionally preyed on Joey’s mind. Has she done the right thing in sending Margot away so young? It had helped her health certainly, but sometimes her mother could not help but wonder whether it had also warped her character a little and contributed to the reliance the child had placed on her “devil”. Now, with so many miles between them, Joey often yearned to reach out and touch those golden curls, to envelop her daughter in her arms and to speak to her openly about the childhood which has been so difficult.

#27: Author: Rachel, Location: Plotting in my lair

Posted: Wed Jul 21, 2004 8:39 am

Awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww.

Group-hug for Joey I think!

I like the way you are showing Joey's soul searching and need for both answers and to be needed. Certainly a much more sympathetic Joey than we have seen lately Wink

#28: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Wed Jul 21, 2004 3:38 pm

The boys of course had all settled in England which was to be expected given that their entire education had been at renowned public schools. Steve had progressed naturally into engineering and was now a Project Engineer in a large manufacturing facility. He was dating a young woman, the daughter of one of the site managers, and Joey expected there to be an announcement shortly. She had not heard from Steve in so long that she sometimes wondered whether they would even be invited to the wedding. Charles had swithered, to use his own sister’s words, and for a while his family had believed he might actually follow Margot into the Church. In the end though, he had taken a postgraduate course in philosophy and psychology and was now committed to social work. Mike had coasted through school, keen to leave as soon as possible so that he could join the Navy, an ambition that he had nurtured since the family’s long liner trip to Canada all those years ago. He was now nearing the end of his apprenticeship and hoping to be awarded a commission with one of the big battleships which meant that he would be ocean bound for months at a time. Felix had gained a place to study medicine at Nottingham and showed every sign of following in his father’s footsteps, much to Jack’s delight. As for Geoff, he was a miniature replica of Mike, not withstanding the ginger hair, and scraped through his lessons with similar abandon. It was too soon to determine his future career. Sometimes, Joey wondered whether she had been right to send them away to school so far away. They had all been so young and so naïve when they had left, clutching their cases and biting their lips in an attempt not to cry. The years had transformed all of them into strapping, self-sufficient young men who rarely made the journey back to Switzerland and who would rather send a brief postcard than the long, chatty letters which Jo herself sent religiously and yearned for in return.

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

Posted: Wed Jul 21, 2004 3:52 pm

Another lovely post Very Happy

I feel very sympathetic to Joey, it must be hard to have her family far away, and realise your actions have partly caused the situation.

*likes the description of them as 'strapping lads'* Wink

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

Posted: Wed Jul 21, 2004 5:21 pm

*Giggling myself silly at Rachael's response to my gloating!!!!*

Loving this Rachael.

(Loved the other bits you sent me today too! Wink

)

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

Posted: Wed Jul 21, 2004 6:41 pm

*prods Lesley with a big stick!!!*

loving this Rachael!

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

Posted: Wed Jul 21, 2004 8:05 pm

***OUCH!!!***

#33: Author: Nicki, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 12:22 am

Gosh!

This makes me feel sorry for Joey.

Makes a change in a drabble!!

More please! Very Happy

#34: Author: Annie,

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 8:13 am

Waaaaaaaaaah! Absolutely brill but sad!
Can't wait to see who is the angel. I think and hopw that it will be her own mother as Ann suggested- that would be really good!
More please a.s.a.p., Rachael
Thanks

#35: Author: Elisabeth,

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 8:21 am

Please send the angel soon! Crying or Very sad

#36: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 9:26 am

The remaining wards were similarly engrossed in their own affairs. The Richardsons had all gravitated towards England and were more likely to visit their relatives, Laurence and Daisy Rosoman, than the Maynards. Roger, particularly, had been understandably reluctant to return to the Gornetz Platz once he realised that Con’s heart was given to another and Joey regretted that he seemed unable to return to their previously easy friendship. Throwing himself into work, he had taken up a position with a prominent civil engineering firm in the South East. Ruey had fulfilled her ambition to study PT at Bedford and was now a well-respected Games Mistress at one of the best girls’ schools in the country. The Chalet School had been disappointed that she did not intend to return to the fold but the Triplets were not surprised. They had gleaned from her letters that there was a certain young gentleman on the scene and Len, for one, surmised that another engagement was in the offing. Youngest brother, Roddy, had never been an academic and like Mike was keen to leave his schooldays far behind him. Much to Jack’s initial disgust, he had emigrated to New Zealand, originally as a ranch hand on a sheep station. Both Jack & Joey had tried to talk him out of it but Roddy had proved very responsible, investigating his options, finding a job and saving his own money for the fare. He had grafted hard for the first few years, thriving in the open air and marvelling at the beauty of the country which was so very different from both Switzerland and England. It had paid off. He had been rewarded with a promotion to lead hand and one day he hoped to have his own station. He had made them proud.

Adrienne had studied hard through all the years at the school to repay what she saw as her scholarship debt. Returning to her native France she had graduated in law from the Sorbonne. She had joined an international legal practice and was gaining a reputation as a formidable opponent, more than capable of arguing complex legal matters in any one of three languages. She kept in regular contact with Robin but her letters and phone calls to Joey were less frequent. Jo accepted this but she missed her nevertheless, often musing on the dark-haired girl who could be so solemn one minute and vivacious the next. Only a couple of years younger, Erica had also completed her schooling at the Chalet School and had surprised everyone by professing a longing to return to India. She had joined a charitable organisation and was doing a combination of welfare work and teaching English as a foreign language.

#37: Author: Rachel, Location: Plotting in my lair

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 9:29 am

Rachael, this is wonderful - and believable. The way the family has scattered is what often does happen, but you have given everyone realistic outcomes to their lives.

So what happens next?

#38: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 9:53 am

Let's get this straight. Jo and Jack have educated their families to earn their own livings, and to be independent. So now Jo is moaning because they've done what they were supposed to.

#39: Author: Rachel, Location: Plotting in my lair

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 10:19 am

Why shouldn't Jo be sad that her family don't stay in touch with her Jennie?

Although I hope (desperately!) that my kids will grow up independant and leave home to have fulfilling lives of their own, I would still hope that as their mother I would be part of their lives!

#40: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 10:41 am

They do stay in touch, Rachel. I think that the sad thing is that Jo doesn't realise that they simply do not have the time to spend writing long screeds to her, whilst she has too much time on her hands.

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

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 10:57 am

Just figured out who the angel is Crying or Very sad

... at least, I think so!!

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

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 11:07 am

I really like the futures you have planned for the wards, very believable. Also if you have a large family, you have to accept they will scatter.

#43: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 2:18 pm

I don't see any contradiction between being proud of your children, and happy for them in their new lives, but still lonely without them. Although Jo does maintain outside interests better than some mothers of long families, and hasn't carried the entire workload herself, the mother role has been the core of her life for a long time.

#44: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 3:56 pm

Then there was her husband. Jack seemed to be more and more engrossed in his work, barely pausing to peck his wife on the cheek as he left for the San each morning. They had talked about his impending retirement which was only a few years off now and Joey had hoped that he would begin to slow down a little, perhaps delegate some of the responsibilities on to younger shoulders. Instead, he seemed swamped and the dreams that she had fostered of them spending more time together now that the family were gone had simply never materialised. Jack had also taken up golf and on many an afternoon recently he had disappeared for a round, saying that he was meeting Reg or Eigen or one of the many other doctors. Joey understood that he needed a release from the stresses and strains of his work but privately she was hurt. Couldn’t the two of them take a picnic and go for a hike like they used to in the old days? Was it, she could barely bring herself to consider this, was it that he did not want to spend time with her? She shook her head, banishing her darkest thoughts to the back of her mind. That would be too much to bear …

Even the Chalet School itself, in which she had invested so much time and energy, seemed to have moved on. It was becoming increasingly modern and more subject to the rules and regulations governing educational establishments. Hilda Annersley and Nell Wilson had retired some years before, dividing their year between Nell’s cottage in Devon and a small property which Hilda had bought on the Gornetz Platz. Each was busy writing her respective memoirs and although they were sociable enough, it was clear that they were primarily occupied with their own affairs. The school itself was now headed by the stalwart partnership of Nancy Wilmot and Kathie Ferrars who were coping well with the challenge of adapting to the 1960s. They had introduced a team of dedicated housemistresses responsible for the pastoral side of the girls’ care, women who had been trained in counselling and mentoring. Consequently, Joey’s advice and opinions were seldom sought. In fact, never, she reflected sadly. Her attempts at continuing to be more involved were gently rebuffed and she had resigned herself to the fact that she was relegated to the position of Special Guest at school functions and one whose presence was by invitation only.

And to top it all, she was celebrating a very special birthday that day and not one of her family or friends had remembered. Listlessly, she mentally ticked them off in her mind. Hilda, Nell, Gwynneth, Simone, Frieda, Marie, Mary-Lou – even Robin seemed to have overlooked this special date although Joey appreciated that her vocation must come first. No one had asked how she intended to celebrate this milestone, not one card had arrived and frankly, she was beginning not to care. Madge had rung earlier that morning to say that she might pop round later but even she had not mentioned the birthday. Joey’s raven head was now peppered with flecks of white, the sallow face was even paler than before, lined and worn with years of caring for others, and she felt tired all the time, mentally and physically exhausted. Perhaps she was a failure. Her children and wards were all successful in their own fields but did they really find her such a chore that they wanted to keep contact to a bare minimum? She felt unvalued, unneeded and unwanted. In fact, at that very moment she would be grateful if the ground would open up and swallow her.
"I wish I could just disappear!” she said out loud, wistfully.

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

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 4:04 pm

The poor thing! I really do feel sorry for her, she had kept up so many interests and yet now seems so alone. And what has happened between her and Jack?

*Trying to remember a little more than the basic premise of the film, but as I've never seen more than the end that is unlikely*

#46: Author: Ray, Location: Bristol, England

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 4:14 pm

This is beautifully written, Rachael - and you do have to feel very sorry for Joey here. It's a totally believable situation you've developed.

Very much looking forward to seeing what happens next.

Ray * Smile

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

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 4:27 pm

Poor Joey, it does seem sad that her friends have forgotten the occassion. I like your development of the school and in particular the introduction of pastoral housemistresses, a very believable situation, both for them and Joey.

#48: Author: Amanda M, Location: Wakefield

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 4:40 pm

You can't help but feel sorry for Joey in this story. You've really put over well the feelings that you get with depression. I'm hoping that someone might remember her birthday, but it doesn't seem likely. Sad

#49: Joey's Wonderful Life Author: Margaret,

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 5:45 pm

There could only be one person for the angel - EBD!

Love this drabble

#50: Author: Rachel, Location: Plotting in my lair

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 5:46 pm

I'm thinking surprise parties and special guests now. Hope I'm not wrong!

Poor Joey - I feel really miserable on her behalf now!

Last edited by Rachel on Thu Jul 22, 2004 9:29 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 7:27 pm

Poor Jo! Lovely Rachael! Laughing

#52: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 8:02 pm

A very believable future for the Maynards, Rachel, and I too admit to feeling some sympathy for Jo in this, especially as it is her birthday. I'm also hoping that Rachel's idea of a surprise party is going to happen.

#53: Author: Nicki, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Thu Jul 22, 2004 11:00 pm

This is a beautiful drabble. Keep it going!! Very Happy

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

Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2004 12:03 am

Rachael, may I come into your drabble and give Jo a hug please?

#55: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2004 8:07 am

Thanks for the comments!
As for the angel, well I did leave my options open at the beginning ...

Quote:

I wonder whether it may require more than one angel

I had two in mind and have definitely gone with the one below- it's possible that more may enter later (shades of A Christmas Carol!!) but I really don't know yet ... but I love all the ideas, one of which was my second thought, and would never have thought of EBD!!

“Josephine”
Joey jumped. She had recognised the voice instantly although her mind told her it was impossible. It was a treasured, much loved voice that she had not heard for almost thirty years.
“Josephine!” The voice again but this time in tones that demanded obedience.
Joey turned, her thoughts in turmoil. Before her stood a plain, middle-aged Frenchwoman, looking in the very prime of life.
“Mademoiselle? Therese? Is it really you?” asked Jo, incredulous.
“Mais oui, Josephine, c’est moi!” The figure moved forward to embrace Joey who, after a moment’s hesitation, returned the hug with vigour before stepping back and regarding the figure with some awe.
“But, Mademoiselle … I don’t understand … how can this be happening? Surely you’re … you’re …?” Jo’s tones were hushed.
“Dead?” Mademoiselle smiled gently as Joey reddened. “Of course, Josephine, but even in death there is life, n’est ce pas?”
“But you look so well … so healthy …” Joey faltered as she remembered the desperately ill woman who had simply faded from life, thankfully before the Nazis had invaded her beloved homeland.
“You remember me as you would like to Joey, that is all,” Mademoiselle smiled. “Come, be seated. Enough of me, I want to find out about you … you seem unhappy, ma petite.”
Dark eyes searched darker eyes and Joey quickly looked away. What was it they said, that the eyes were the windows to the soul? She shrank from disclosing too much of her misery to Mademoiselle, feeling that her burdens were as nothing compared to the long illness that her friend had borne so stoically.

Mademoiselle seemed to sense her reticence and became more insistent.
“Come, cherie, sit down beside me. It will help you to talk about it …”
The voice was soft but persuasive and Joey found that she reverted to her former schoolgirl self. Guiding Mademoiselle to a comfy armchair, Joey knelt at her feet, as though at confessional. Out poured her story – the years of happiness, marrying Jack, bringing up eleven children and several wards, being involved with the school, publishing her books … in short, her feeling that she had made a difference to the world. Then, how quickly this had all changed. For over an hour Jo spoke as Mademoiselle listened. Eventually, she came to summarise her state of mind.
“The children are growing up so rapidly that they don’t need us any more; the school is becoming so modern that they don’t need my help; the publishers think my style is too old-fashioned for the teenage market and Jack seems so distant that I’m not sure he loves me any more …”
Joey paused to fight the rising lump in her throat. “What’s the point of it all, Mademoiselle? What’s the point? They wouldn’t even notice if I wasn’t around … I sometimes wish … I …”
The rest was lost as Jo finally dissolved into tears.

#56: Author: Ray, Location: Bristol, England

Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2004 8:14 am

Very nicely done once more - and the perfect (first) angel Smile

Is it too soon to beg for more?

Ray *begging anyway*

#57: Author: Nicole, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2004 8:31 am

Good grief, I guessed it right! I think it's the first time ever in a drabble that *that's* happened!

I'm really enjoying this, Rachael. More please Very Happy

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

Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2004 9:28 am

* Agrees with Ray* The perfect angel!

This is wonderful, and very sensitively done.

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

Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2004 9:34 am

Lovely

Well, unless your other angel is the angel I thought it might be, I'm wrong - but the update made up for it Smile

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

Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2004 9:44 am

That was lovely Rachael, and probably just what Joey needs.

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

Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2004 11:18 am

May I gloat - hey why am I asking *gloats*

A perfect angel, thanks Rachael

#62: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2004 11:45 am

Just caught up on this! And am glad!
I LOVE 'Its a wonderful life' too.

#63: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2004 11:48 am

Superb choice Rachael, looking forward to seeing more.

PS I know this is the wrong thread but I've finally caught up with the end of your Casablanca story, I can't comment on there coz it's locked, but it was a fabulous ending to a wonderful, evocative story.

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

Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2004 1:08 pm

More please Rachael! Laughing

#65: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2004 1:08 pm

Thanks, Ellie! Kiss

Last bit 'til Monday - enjoy the sunshiney weekend everyone!

ETA - impressed by timing of Lesley's post - I've sent you some by e-mail! Wink

Therese LePattre pulled her erstwhile pupil’s head on to her lap, tenderly stroking the greying locks. For a while she said nothing, allowing Joey to have her cry and radiating waves of sympathy. Eventually, the sobs subsided and Jo wiped her eyes with a fresh hankie.
“I’m sorry, Therese,” she began, “I know I’m being horribly selfish but it’s just all become too much for me … nobody needs me, nothing I do is good enough any more and I feel so worthless …such a failure … what’s left for me in this life?”
“Hush, Joey,” Therese moved to place her hand on each shoulder of Joey’s lengthy frame. “You don’t mean that …”
“But I do” replied Joey earnestly, lifting her head and staring straight at her friend. “Oh, I wouldn’t take my own life, that would be sinful, but it would solve everything if I were to die … everyone would just carry on as normal …they hardly notice me anyway so it wouldn’t make any difference …”
“Don’t you think your family would miss you terribly?”
“Perhaps at first but they’re all strong … they’d grieve and then move on … they don’t need me in their lives … don’t you see?”
“No, Joey, I don’t … your life is changing, yes, as are the lives of those around you, but that doesn’t mean they love you any less … they would be devastated if anything happened to you …”
“Then perhaps it would have been better if I had never been born at all …”
“Be careful what you wish for, Joey” advised Mademoiselle portentously. “Sometimes our wishes have an uncomfortable way of coming true.”
“But I do wish it, Therese, with all my heart” affirmed Joey, “I wish I had never been born!”

Nothing happened. The gravity with which Mademoiselle had spoken affected Joey and she half believed that there would be a blinding flash and a moment of enlightenment. Instead, her old friend continued to look at her sympathetically, nodding slightly.
“As you wish,” said Mademoiselle.
“What do you mean?”
“You wished that you have never been born and your wish has been granted.”
“That’s ridiculous!” retorted Joey. “How can I not have been born? I’m sitting in my house surrounded by my things … “
“Are you?” interrupted Mademoiselle quietly.
Joey looked round the room, taking in her possessions. “Of course … see, that’s our piano, family pictures, my typewriter …”
“Take a closer look, Joey.”
Jo did as she was bid. Although the piano was the one she knew and loved, she was taken back to see that the photos in the frames were of different families, people she had never known.
“I don’t understand! Is this some kind of joke?”
“Of course not. What are you expecting? You don’t exist, therefore you have no family and no pictures of them.”
“I don’t believe it. Look here’s my typewriter,” Jo paced over to the desk. “I know it’s mine because the rotten thing keeps jamming … watch!”
Pausing long enough only to note that there was a blank piece of paper in the machine where she was sure that she had typed a chapter title, Joey pressed a few keys and then tapped the lever across to draw through the paper. It shifted smoothly. Amazed, Jo tried again and once again the paper flowed through.
“That’s strange,” she remarked sotto voce. “It seems to have fixed itself ...”
“Because it was never broken.” Mademoiselle softly finished the sentence.

#66: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2004 1:31 pm

Oooer........... No Jo, who will we have to send up now, Rachael?

#67: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans/Leicester

Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2004 9:41 pm

A world without Joey? I can't even imagine it... what will have become of the Chalet School without her.

Loving this so far Rachael.

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

Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2004 9:46 pm

Oooo, this looks intersting. Look forward to reading more.

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

Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2004 9:51 pm

The next bit is even better. Twisted Evil

#70: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2004 10:05 pm

Lesley!!!!

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

Posted: Fri Jul 23, 2004 11:14 pm

*Gets in the car and sets off for Fenny Compton, to MAKE Rachael post more..... Wink

#72: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sat Jul 24, 2004 12:13 am

*certainly hopes angel does a good job!*

#73: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Sat Jul 24, 2004 12:37 am

*considers doing something unspeakable to both Lesley and Rachael*

Rachael, please, this is lovely, and like Ellie, I've just read and loved your Casablanca take.. Laughing

#74: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Sat Jul 24, 2004 2:29 am

Lesley wrote:

The next bit is even better. Twisted Evil

This gloating is what makes my latent violent tendancies come to the surface - GRRRRRR, espeially as I have to wait until Monday for more,

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

Posted: Sat Jul 24, 2004 10:04 am

*starts plotting*

Feel so sorry for Jo Crying or Very sad

#76: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Jul 24, 2004 10:57 am

I agree with Ellie. I'm also feeling violent at the thought of waiting for Monday.

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

Posted: Sat Jul 24, 2004 3:06 pm

He he he he he! Laughing

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

Posted: Sat Jul 24, 2004 3:42 pm

*suggests that there is power in numbers and, if we gang up on Lesley, we might be able to convince her to post the next part which she so obviously has, judging by her gloating* Twisted Evil

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

Posted: Sat Jul 24, 2004 5:16 pm

Well Gem, how often does that work when Rachael has the next bit of the latest RCS??? Twisted Evil

#80: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Sat Jul 24, 2004 6:26 pm

ooooo, ahhhhhh, good stuff
MORE please!!

#81: Author: Frances, Location: Milton Keynes

Posted: Sat Jul 24, 2004 8:01 pm

Lesley wrote:

He he he he he! Laughing

*feeling inclined to withdraw nice comments made previously to certain people and emulate certain previous actions of Vikki's - the type that invole poking and sharp sticks* Twisted Evil

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

Posted: Sat Jul 24, 2004 9:58 pm

Lesley wrote:

Well Gem, how often does that work when Rachael has the next bit of the latest RCS??? Twisted Evil

*sighs*

Never.

Back to square 1.

#83: Author: Nicki, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Sat Jul 24, 2004 11:01 pm

This is so good and I love this film, so even better!

I'll have to wait til TUESDAY because of the time difference.... Crying or Very sad

#84: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Sat Jul 24, 2004 11:37 pm

Gah!!! Lesley, you are being very, very annoying. Even more annoying than when you post a whopping cliff hanger on RCS. At least then when you've done sommat horrible, we know you're feeling awful too. This, on the other hand, is pure and simply sadism!!!!

Laughing

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

Posted: Sun Jul 25, 2004 12:25 pm

Just out of curiosity, you consider 12.00 tonight to be Monday, right, Rachael?

Maybe I should watch the movie whilst waiting for the update...

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

Posted: Sun Jul 25, 2004 1:07 pm

Lisa_T wrote:

Yes, realise how much fun Rachael has on my drabbles now - this is good!!

(So is the next bit of this drabble - had I already mentioned that?)

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

Posted: Sun Jul 25, 2004 3:36 pm

Lesley, you are aware that it's less than 2 weeks to the Gathering, right? *g*

Just keep that thought in mind when you're gloating... Twisted Evil

#88: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sun Jul 25, 2004 4:10 pm

Lesley wrote:

Yes, realise how much fun Rachael has on my drabbles now - this is good!!

(So is the next bit of this drabble - had I already mentioned that?)

I don't think so Lesley? Surely we'd have remembered if you'd mentioned that before? Rolling Eyes

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

Posted: Sun Jul 25, 2004 4:30 pm

Wow this is so good! And so interesting!

And Lesley will you stop being smug??!

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

Posted: Sun Jul 25, 2004 4:46 pm

*draws all SGers into a meeting to plot revenge on Lesley!!!!!*

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

Posted: Sun Jul 25, 2004 5:09 pm

*brings in chocolate to help with plotting*

#92: Author: Ray, Location: Bristol, England

Posted: Sun Jul 25, 2004 5:26 pm

Ray *offers Baileys as an incentive*

#93: Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge

Posted: Sun Jul 25, 2004 7:22 pm

Just back from Germany and happily admiring all the shiny new drabbles... this is particularly shiny, thank you Rachael Very Happy

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

Posted: Sun Jul 25, 2004 8:31 pm

Vikki wrote:

*draws all SGers into a meeting to plot revenge on Lesley!!!!!*

Reminds Vikki of RCS mk5

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

Posted: Sun Jul 25, 2004 8:34 pm

Bribery, Lesley? Twisted Evil

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

Posted: Sun Jul 25, 2004 10:16 pm

Protection, Gem! Wink

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

Posted: Sun Jul 25, 2004 10:32 pm

That's okay then, 'specially since we just got an RCS update Very Happy

#98: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 12:57 am

I'm not sure I'd call it bribery, Gem. Lesley's retaliations are rarely pleasant. Personally, I'd call it intimidation...which of course is what Lesley does best!! Laughing

*prods Rachael* You know, it might be an idea to get back here and add more, 'cos otherwise we might be moved to do something very nasty to Lesley, and then, my sweetie pie, that'd be the end of your gloating sessions!!

#99: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 8:18 am

Eek!! Good point, Lisa!!
*grinning at Lesley's gloating!*

“No! This can’t be happening!” Joey pinched herself as though to rouse herself from a bad dream.
“You won’t be able to wake up, Joey.”
“Of course, I can. This is all a stupid dream. It must be, otherwise you wouldn’t be here talking to me!”
“No, Joey. You are not asleep, therefore you can not waken.”
“Then it’s some horrible trick, it must be …” Jo’s voice began to rise.
“There is no hoax, no subterfuge, Joey. What you requested has been actioned, that is all.”
Jo sighed, pressing her brow with one hand as if to smooth away a headache. “Perhaps I’m ill. I’m hearing things, I’m seeing things. I should make an appointment at the San …”
“No, Joey, there is no problem with your health.” Mademoiselle reached out to take Joey’s hand. “You have been given a unique gift, the opportunity to see what the world would be like without you. I am here to guide you through your journey. Trust in me, cherie and I will show how your family and friends would have led very different lives without Josephine Bettany.”
Joey hesitated for what seemed like a long time, then nodded tentatively.
“Who would you like to see first?”
Still speechless, Joey shrugged.
“How about Grizel, your first friend?”

The room blurred but even as Joey felt her balance go and flung out a hand to steady herself, her eyes focused and she realised they were somewhere else. It was the main living room of a nursing home. There were many occupants and those that could were mostly occupied with activities such as jigsaw puzzles, reading, knitting etc. Many of the men had lost one or more limbs and were of the right age to be war veterans. Of the women, most were also severely incapacitated. Joey’s gaze was drawn to a lone figure hunched in an invalid chair in one corner of the room, set apart from the other occupants. There was no sign of the bronzed curls and pretty, vivacious features that she remembered. The hair was flat and lifeless. The face was heavily lined before its time with resentment and self pity. Even as Joey watched, the woman coughed, deep spasms racking her body.
“But … but this isn’t Grizel!” murmured Jo, shocked at the vision before her. But there was no mistaking the eyes that turned towards them, looking straight at them without seeing.
“It … it can’t be …” Despite the evidence, Joey could not reconcile the Grizel she knew with this pitiful sight. “Grizel lives with Neil Sheppard. She never became a Games Mistress, I know, and it was a bitter disappointment to her but she was a good Music teacher and she spent some happy times in New Zealand before meeting Neil. She’s happily married now, I know she is …”
“No, Joey,” the gentle tones were sombre. “Grizel never married. She never went to New Zealand and she never met Neil Sheppard.
“But why not? How …?”

#100: Author: Nicole, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 8:24 am

Rachael!!!

You really can't leave it there!!!

*thinks Rachael has learned far too much about cliffs from Lesley*

More please Very Happy

#101: Author: Ray, Location: Bristol, England

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 8:35 am

Never say "you can't" because invariably, they have Wink

On the other hand... That really IS quite a horrendous cliffie, Rachael - PLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEASE post some more soon!!!

Ray *begging*

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

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 9:27 am

Rachael please!!! Poor Grizel, looks like she did quite well out of the books in the end.

#103: Author: Frances, Location: Milton Keynes

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 9:29 am

This is absolute, downright cruelty. Is 'cliff-construction' some sort of contagious infection, becasue there seems to be a huge amount of it about at the moment.

*sighs resignedly ands asks nicely if we can please have some more*

Smile

#104: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 10:00 am

Rachael, what a horrible fate for Grizel!

#105: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 3:24 pm

Rachael, have just found this and read it straight through. I too have never watched the film but have seen enough to understand the story.

All I can say is wow!! Poor Jo, yes it is right that families should grow up and leave their parents but should not abandon them. They may be busy but it doesn't take a couple of minutes to make a phone call. Having lived through the aftermath of an aunt who thought she was too busy and far away to bother with her mum, for more than the odd phone call, and then had to witness her collapse when she realised what she'd done and was too late to change things I know what I'm talking about.

I feel really sorry for Jo at the beginning of this but hope that in the way of the film all will be right at the end.

#106: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 3:44 pm

“Grizel never recovered from her day on the Tiernjoch. She spent the night up there in the cold, damp fog because the search parties had to abandon their work until daylight. When they found her she was suffering from hypothermia and within days she had a bout of pleuro-pneumonia. She was desperately ill for weeks and even when she recovered they found that her lungs were permanently weakened and she’s been an invalid ever since.”
“That’s not true! I followed her and found her within a few hours. We were stuck on that ledge together and then they came and rescued us. Grizel was fine after a mild attack of bronchitis! I was the one who fell really ill …”
“You were never there, Joey. You were never born so how could you have followed her? Grizel was impetuous and nobody knew or understood her like you did. They never guessed that she would really try to climb the mountain … not until it was too late …”
“But I don’t understand. Who looks after her now? Why is she in such a …”, Joey glanced round expressively, “Such a hovel?”
Therese looked at Joey with compassion, knowing that the truth would hurt.
“Grizel was too sick to complete her education and she was taken back to England by her father. Her stepmother refused to give up her life to caring for Grizel, because it was a full-time job, and insisted on a nursing home. When her father was alive there was enough money to ensure a decent level of care but after he passed away, Mrs Cochrane became tighter with the purse strings and when she died there was almost nothing left. Grizel had nowhere else to go – she’s a pauper now, Joey.”

Aghast, Joey gazed at the scene again.
“Could nobody help?” she asked. “What about Madge?”
“Cherie, no one knew what happened to Grizel. The family moved to a different area and they were unable to trace her…”
“But what about the Burnetts or Rosalie’s family? Surely they must have known something?”
“They didn’t. The Cochranes were very private people and kept themselves to themselves, even more so once Grizel returned. They had few friends. Margharite did keep trying for some years. She tried all her contacts in Taverton but discovered nothing. Nobody knows that Grizel is here. There is no one who can help …”
“Can I speak to her?”
“No Joey, even if she heard you, it would be too cruel. She would have no idea who you were …”
Joey nodded, her black eyes filling with tears both at Grizel’s predicament and her own helplessness. Watching her closely, Therese deemed it sensible to move on.
“Who else would you like to see?”

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

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 4:52 pm

Awwwww!!! Poor Grizel!!!

Do we get any more Rachael???

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

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 4:52 pm

Poor Grizel, a very realistic picture of what might have happened to her. Just one thing, please don't let Joey need a new hat after seeing all these images!! Wink

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

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 6:10 pm

Thanks Rachael! - See? I told you it was good! Laughing

(And so's the next bit! Twisted Evil

)

#110: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 6:15 pm

*Reaches through the modem and throttles Lesley!*

#111: Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 6:29 pm

Poor Grizel!

*waves 'MORE' placard in Rachael's direction*

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

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 6:34 pm

*Uuuuuuuuuuhhhhhhhhh. Lesley lies on the floor, cold, grey and to all appearances.........*

#113: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 6:42 pm

*contemplates dragging Lesley back to her own thread before reviving her!*
Cos we would like more RCS you know! Laughing

and less gloating..from both of you!!!

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

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 6:55 pm

Poor Grizel! Guess she didn't do as badly off out of the books as I thought...

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

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 6:56 pm

More please! Very Happy

When did the film come out? Do you think I can find somewhere to rent it from? Or does HMV sell it...? Confused

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

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 7:05 pm

Laura, the film was made in *racks brain* 1946 I think, and should be easily obtainable from most shops that sell videos.

#117: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 8:54 pm

*Gulps* Poor Grizel - I guess being forced to study music compares favourably with that.
Thank you Racheal, that was very moving.
Who's next?

#118: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Mon Jul 26, 2004 9:21 pm

poor Grizel

*waiting*

#119: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 8:16 am

Disclaimer: I've borrowed heavily from the film in this next scene and in no way mean to stereotype the profession used! So, abject apologies in advance to Auntie Pat & co ...

*wondering who's more irritating - me or Lesley? Rolling Eyes

*
*chuckling at Ally's comment about Jo's hat!*

“Juliet” replied Jo firmly. “She joined us in the Dark Ages and she was like an elder sister to me. I haven’t spoken to her in ages and I’d love to see how Donal and the children are getting on …”
“Juliet … of course” nodded Therese. “I understand …”
The scene changed but rather than moving to the O’Hara family home as Joey had confidently expected, she found herself in front of a library at closing time in England. As she watched, a tall but stooped figure emerged, grey hair swept back into a tight bun and wire spectacles perched precariously on the woman’s face. It was Juliet but what a change to the once stately and dignified young lady. This woman hesitated as she drew some keys from her handbag, peering nervously behind her before locking the doors and then hastening down the steps on to the street below. She kept her bag clutched to her chest and walked timidly with head down, intent on avoiding the other passersby. Bumping into one gentleman, she flinched, mumbling her apologies into her coat and hurrying on before the man had chance to draw breath.

“This isn’t Juliet,” said Joey, shaking her head. “It looks like, Jules, yes, but where’s her confidence, her spirit? And where’s Donal?”
“Juliet never married, Joey” explained Therese. “How could she? Donal finished the relationship once his sister had told him about the Carrick family history. Juliet was too proud to confront him so they were never able to discuss it.”
“No, that can’t be right! I tackled Donal myself. I made him see sense that day on the Sonnalpe when it was so hot … he was mortified once he realised what he’d done!”
“Joey, you couldn’t have been there if you were never born. Without you, there was no one to set Donal straight. He and Juliet never spoke again and she never got over the snub dealt by Kay O’Hara. Her self-esteem was so badly shaken that summer that she never recovered it. Oh, Margharite tried to help her, as did I and everyone else, but she was too bruised. Donal was the love of her life and she never met another man. She became depressed for a while and resigned as Head of the Annexe. Despite Margharite’s entreaties, she returned to England and took a position as librarian. She wanted some solitude, some time to think, but she never came back. She retreated into herself and nobody could draw her out if it. She’s been at the same library for thirty years now and she has few friends and little social life. She withdrew from everyone and keeps her own counsel. She is a very lonely woman, Joey, but she shuns all contact with her old friends except for exchanging cards at Christmas.”

#120: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 8:35 am

Irritating? There's not a lot to choose between you Rachael!!!
More please!
No need to apologise as far as I'm concerned.

#121: Author: Nicole, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 8:40 am

*Agrees with Pat - you're both far too good at cliffs*

May we have some more, please? Very Happy

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

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 9:42 am

Thanks Rachael, and poor Juliet as well.

So, hows the school getting along without Joey??

#123: Author: Frances, Location: Milton Keynes

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 9:53 am

As well as feeling sorry for Grizel and Juliet, I've just had a horrible thought. Much as I dislike Jo at times - what would have happened to Rufus without her? bawling

#124: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 11:37 am

Oh, poor Juliet!!

Gosh...i suppose we could have guessed Joey had a lot of impact

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

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 12:31 pm

So who's going to buy her a bigger hat at the end of this?

Ooh, I wonder what would have happened to Jack?

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

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 1:28 pm

thanks Rachael, although it's scary seeing how different things are!!!

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

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 2:07 pm

I wonder how different Simone will be? Or Mary-Lou, for that matter? At the other end of the spectrum, I bet Stacie Benson wouldn't have had nearly as bad a time if she and Joey hadn't antagonised each other.

Wonderful post, Rachael - I guess Joey really did have a great deal of influence!

#128: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 3:11 pm

Poor, poor Juliet. It's so sad to see so much promise wasted.

#129: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 3:40 pm

With apologies to Frances ...

Joey looked again at the diffident figure, still struggling up the street. She tried to comprehend the enormity of the change in both Grizel and Juliet’s circumstances.
“How is it possible, Therese?” she asked. “Can people’s lives really change so much because of something someone else did or didn’t do?”
Mademoiselle pondered the question carefully before replying.
“Destiny is a mysterious thing, Joey. Our individual fates are inextricably bound together and when one link in the chain is removed or replaced the knock-on effects can be overwhelming. I think you underestimate your own influence, cherie. You are a strong character and your knack of understanding others, how do you say it, your ‘getting under their skin’, is a great gift. You are drawn to people and they to you … instinctively you try to help them. Always you would ‘wade in’, as Margharite used to say, and not worry about the consequences. Grizel, Juliet and the others were very fortunate to have such a good friend. Without your loyalty and impulsiveness their lives would indeed have been very different. You are unique, Josephine, as is every human being, and that is not something which should be dismissed lightly.”

Mademoiselle watched Joey closely, noting by the silence and furrowed brow that her words were making an impact.
“So our actions or … or … lack of action can affect others in more ways than we can imagine?”
“Can and do, Joey …exactly.”
Jo paused then in a small voice asked, “Therese, what happened to Rufus? Was he … did Eigen … ?”
Mademoiselle shook her head. “He drowned when he was a puppy, Joey, along with his brothers and sisters. Eigen came for you because he knew of your love of animals and because you were friendly towards him. Your sister was a grown-up and he would never have dared to approach her. Eigen was upset but there was nobody else he could tell and nothing he could do … he was too young and even if he had intervened he would have been punished. Zita's owner could barely afford to look after her and another hungry mouth to feed would have been too much …”
Joey swallowed quickly, then nodded in understanding, trying to imagine a life without Rufus – his big furry coat, his exuberance, his cold, wet nose, his unerring loyalty and his bravery in the face of danger. She looked up suddenly.
“But if there was no Rufus, Therese, what happened to ‘Veta when she was abducted by Cosimo? Who would have tracked them down?”

#130: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans/Leicester

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 3:41 pm

Oh poor Juliet, I always feel so sorry for her when she's lost Donal before Joey butts in and for that to be her whole life Crying or Very sad

#131: Author: Lulie, Location: Middlesbrough

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 3:43 pm

Rachael wrote:

“But if there was no Rufus, Therese, what happened to ‘Veta when she was abducted by Cosimo? Who would have tracked them down?”

I never thought of that! Perhaps it would have been 'Veta down the crevasse and Cosimo being the next heir Shocked

#132: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 3:53 pm

Wow - it's amazing how many things could have changed, and not just those you immediately think of - this could become a whole different series!

Thank's Racheal, I'm glad that Joey was around to confront Donal, I always liked Juliet and she certainly deserved a better life than this alternative.

Glad that Rufus didn't drown either - come to that, he wouldn't have been around to help rescue Robin from the stream, or from the madman in the caves.

#133: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans/Leicester

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 3:54 pm

Poor Rufus and it doesn't look good for Veta in this world, or any of the other girls Rufus tracked down at various times... what about when Robin escaped the madman on his back...

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

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 4:03 pm

Poor Rufus, this could get very complicated, because if there was no Rufus, no Joey, and Grizel was so ill who rescued Robin from the madman, and what happened to Cornelia in the caves? Not to mention all the Veta stuff!

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

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 4:05 pm

And in Rivals, Maureen (i think) would have drowned; without Rufus Sybil might have been successfully abducted or had an accident in New Chalet School... and what would have happened in Exile? Agh.

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

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 4:39 pm

Excellent again Rachael. And I'll not gloat this time.......No I won't...........I won't......... Twisted Evil

#137: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 4:40 pm

It's beginning to look as though the CS wouldn't have survived without poor old Rufus. I never realised he was the most important charcter in it until now.

I would really, really like to see Jack's alternative life. We will get to that eventually won't we please Rachael?

#138: Author: Frances, Location: Milton Keynes

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 8:49 pm

Rachael wrote:

With apologies to Frances ...

HUH!

*sobs quietly*

Quote:

Joey swallowed quickly, then nodded in understanding, trying to imagine a life without Rufus – his big furry coat, his exuberance, his cold, wet nose, his unerring loyalty and his bravery in the face of danger.

*reads that bit again and sobs LOUDLY*

You are going to post lots and lots more now to make me feel better aren't you????

#139: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 9:30 pm

this is seriously good! I saw the film many years ago (not telling you how many, but it was on general release in a cinema Wink

) and I found it very moving. You've really thought this through in some serious detail, Rachael.

*makes note to buy video*

*Joins the many voices pleading for more*

#140: Author: Amanda M, Location: Wakefield

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 10:18 pm

Oh poor Rufus Crying or Very sad

This is a really good alternative history, can't wait for the next bit.

Star Wars

#141: Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 10:21 pm

Rachael this is just BEAUTIFUL. I haven't seen the film, can only guess what the plot is like from your drabble, but it stands alone anyway. Thank you - and please may we have some more? Kiss

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

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 10:43 pm

*shocked by how many people haven't seen 'It's a Wonderful Life'!!!*
*thinks maybe we should watch it at the SG.......*
*remembers the Mary Poppins incident!*
*realises it'll never happen*

#143: Author: Ray, Location: Bristol, England

Posted: Tue Jul 27, 2004 10:51 pm

I have to own up as another member of that club. On the other hand, what I HAVE seen, is various other TV shows/films that do the "It's a Wonderful Life" routine, so I do know the basic plot if not the details.

As far as this version goes, I can't add anything else to what everyone's said; Rachael, it's excellently done and I can't wait to see more Smile

Ray *eager*

#144: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 1:20 am

You bunch of ignoramuses! *smug* I have seen it. Admittedly only once, but I have seen it, and watched it from start to finish too. I seem to remember howling at the end...

#145: Author: Nicole, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 5:18 am

Rachael, this is incredible!

I also want to see what happened to Jack if Joey was never born.

More please!!

#146: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 8:51 am

*g* I try to watch it every Christmas and it's one of those films I watch if I need a feel-good blub ... and I own two videos of it, although one seems to be out on permanent loan as I gave it to a friend who seems reluctant to watch it - cynic!! Rolling Eyes

PatMac - surely it was a re-release!! Shocked

Vikki's right - it came out in 1946 ...

“Nobody” answered Mademoiselle simply. “The trail was cold by the time we discovered Elisaveta was missing. Captain Trevellion was at his wits’ end, troops scouring the mountainside, but the first we heard of her was when the King received a ransom note. It was paid, of course, and Elisaveta was returned safe and sound but she was badly shaken. She had been alone with Cosimo and his henchman, Ternikai, for some days and the stress took its toll … cold sweats, nightmares, panic attacks … she was only young Joey, but in that week she lost her carefree, happy nature and her childhood. She returned to Belsornia and we never heard from them again, although we found out that Cosimo was subsequently captured and imprisoned. Her father blamed himself for insisting that she be allowed to follow a normal education. The doctor who had recommended the school was dismissed and for the next few years Elisaveta was never seen in public. In fact, she never went anywhere again without a team of bodyguards and when war came she was ill prepared for life as anything but a royal.”
“Where is she now?” asked Joey, fearfully.
“She lives in exile in one of the Balkan states, surrounded by ex-courtiers. She is happy enough, Joey but her life is very different from what it could have been. She was so protected in those formative years that she became insulated from the real world and she believes that she is owed the Belsornian kingdom, that it is her divine right. She lives for the day when she is reinstated as sovereign over her people and refuses to believe that they wish to remain a republic. Her time at the Chalet School was too brief. We were unable to instil in Elisaveta the independence and sense of social responsibility that just a couple of terms might have achieved.”

“And Madge? Did the King … were there repercussions?” Jo’s eyes widened in alarm.
“No, Joey, the King understood that we had done everything we could. He even sent your sister a letter absolving her of any responsibility but it hit the school hard. Word spread and you know how rumours escalate. Some of the more well-to-do families removed their girls from the school, concerned about the lack of security and the very real possibility of kidnap and extortion by criminal factions. Graf von Eschenau was one …”
“Maria’s father?” exclaimed Jo. “But why? I never thought they were particularly rich …”
“They had been a wealthy family, Joey, what the English might call landed gentry. Much of their money had gone but they were still regarded as society figures and therefore affluent. The Grafin was not prepared to take the risk and was adamant that his daughters should be educated under his watchful eye. They returned to Vienna and eventually married local boys.”
“Local? But … but that would mean Wanda and Friedel would be together but what about Marie and Eugen? She met him at school and if the von Eschenaus remained in Vienna, what about Bernie and Kurt?”
“They all found other partners. They are all happy in their own way, Joey, but they lead different lives from the ones you know. Marie and Wanda were not the only ones to be removed … Herr Hamel was concerned that his business might be a target and withdrew Sophie and Mr Lannis sent Evadne back to America but others stayed … the Maranis, the Mensches, the Lecoutiers …”
“What about Cornelia? Mr Flower was a millionaire like Evvy’s Dad … oh but she didn’t arrive until Grizel was Head Girl so he can’t have minded … “Joey was thinking hard. “But then if there was no Rufus to follow ‘Veta then there was no Rufus to track down Corney and Robin when they were taken by that Arnolfi madman …” She looked at Mademoiselle imploringly. “What happened, Therese?”
“Who do you want to see first, Josephine?
“Rob, of course” was the impatient reply. “She’s as much a sister to me as Madge. I need to know how she is, to see that everything’s OK – I hardly ever hear from her at the moment because she’s so busy.”
Therese acquiesced, eyeing Joey sympathetically.

#147: Author: Frances, Location: Milton Keynes

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 9:05 am

Thank you Rachael, this is absolutely brilliant!!!

You are going to go through all the books and re-write them without the 'Joey-effect' aren't you? You wouldn't think of just giving us snippets here and there?

*looks forward to this drabble running for a very long time, ignores work sitting on desk waiting to be done, and settles down to wait for more*

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

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 9:12 am

Uh-oh...so whats happened to Robin?

#149: Author: LadyGuinevere, Location: Leicester

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 10:20 am

I'm really loving this.... I keep sitting here with a wide open mouth! I'm worried for Robin now!

I've only seen the second half of the film, one Christmas. I should really see the rest.

~LadyG

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

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 10:22 am

What happened to Veta is very believable, and its impact on the school.

*Very worried about Robin*

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

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 12:12 pm

No! Robin can't be dead - she can't Crying or Very sad

*panicking*

#152: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 3:23 pm

Sorry.

The scene changed but even as Joey looked for signs of a convent, the blurry images transformed into a cemetery, devoid of all visitors. It was a cold, wintery day, the shadows were long and the graves covered with a thick layer of snow. Confused, she glanced across at Therese who returned the look steadfastly before pointing into the gloom. For a split second, Jo stared in disbelief, then as the truth dawned she was galvanised into action. Tearing across the uneven ground, she searched frantically among the headstones. Staggering from one to the next, hindered by the icy footpaths, she finally found it.
“No! Please no!” whispered Joey as she sank to her knees before a very small grave, decades old, and carefully scraped away the snow to reveal the full inscription.
“In Loving Memory Of
Cecilia Marya Humphries
“Robinette”
1924-1930
Taken early from this World by Our Lord
Safe now in her Mother’s Arms”

“Therese, I’m begging you! Say it’s not true!” pleaded Joey as she gently traced the engraved words with her fingertips.
“I can’t do that, Joey” responded Mademoiselle solemnly.
“What happened?” asked Jo, her voice quiet but clear, ringing out harshly against the silence of the cemetery.
“It wasn’t long after Mollie Maynard collected the Robin from her father,” explained Therese. “She was a very jolly child, always keen to participate and keep up with the big girls. That day, she chased Simone’s paper dolls and fell into the river, where she was swept away by the water. No one was close enough to grab her quickly … you weren’t there, Joey, nor Rufus … and she was carried some way downstream. By the time they reached her, she had been in the water for over an hour and was very poorly. They couldn’t be sure but they think that the chill she developed acted as a catalyst for the tuberculosis. Within a matter of months she was consumptive and although she bore it bravely she simply faded from life.”
“I don’t believe it!” Jo’s voice cracked but still the tears did not come. “Rob was ordained as a nun and she’s been at La Sagesse for years. She never developed TB. Jem and the other doctors watched her like a hawk, of course they did, and there were some scares but she was never ill. She was in the Annexe for years before she joined the main school but by the time she was fourteen, she was in the clear, I know she was …
“”You weren’t there, Joey …” Therese warned.
“I don’t believe it … I won’t …” repeated Joey again, clinging to the words like a mantra, as if refusing to acknowledge the situation could render it untrue.

“It’s the truth Joey, although we took some comfort in the knowledge that our Robinette had joined the mother whom she had loved and missed so terribly …”
At last, the tears came and Joey stood helplessly in front of the grave, weeping inconsolably as she remembered everything about her little, adopted sister. Images of the black curls, rosy cheeks and angelic face flooded her mind and she was overcome with a powerful urge to hold Robin again closely, even it was for the last time.
“We would be all the poorer without Robin,” she said finally. “Rob has made a difference to so many people with her work, her faith … just by being her …”
Mademoiselle nodded her accord as Joey continued to reflect on the impact of a world without Robin Humphries. She was beginning to see that the bonds between people and the interweaving of relationships were critical to humankind; that no individual lived in isolation.

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

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 3:26 pm

Really, really sad.......as for the next bit bawling

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

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 3:28 pm

Poor Joey, I'd forgotten so many little moments sje was involved in that could have large consequences. I'm guessing now Madge didn't marry Jem and there was no San set up, as Joey and Madge would not have holidayed in the Dolomites, and Joey wouldn't have been at the Ice Carnival to rick her ankle!

#155: Author: Amanda M, Location: Wakefield

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 3:29 pm

Oh, poor Robin. Crying or Very sad

This is wonderful writing, it's so good to see the way Joey affected so many lifes, and it seems so far, for the better.

Star Wars

#156: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 3:51 pm

Poor Rufus, poor poor Robin. Very very powerful story!

#157: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 4:23 pm

Rachael wrote:

[color=red PatMac - surely it was a re-release!! Shocked

Vikki's right - it came out in 1946 ...[/color]

I was a child when I saw it - too young, I think with hindsight. I remember being very upset at the end and I remember I was shorter than my mother (funny how those snapshot memories come back, isn't it!) and as I was taller than her by the time I was 11, it was certainly before 1951.

Those who have met me will realise I'm a senior citizen Very Happy

Back to the drabble. It's really thought provoking and I'm really sad about Robin and Rufus and all the other people whose lives Joey changed.

*refills the tissue box, having emptied it*

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

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 4:56 pm

Very powerfully written.

Scary to think how much she did affect things in the CS world!

Hang on, would the CS have even been set up if she was never born? I thought the only reason why Madge didn't go out to India with Dick was because Joey was too delicate for the climate.

#159: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 6:05 pm

ohh

#160: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 7:37 pm

This is great Rachael.

Quote:

Hang on, would the CS have even been set up if she was never born? I thought the only reason why Madge didn't go out to India with Dick was because Joey was too delicate for the climate.

Likely not (I think that we've discussed it before), but the story doesn't work if we don't make that assumption.

#161: Author: Frances, Location: Milton Keynes

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 8:29 pm

Ooohh, that's heart-wrenching. I'm feeling so sorry for Jo going through all this. Sad

Just wondering about the impact of Robin's early death on other people's lives. She may not play a major role in later books, but there are a couple of incidents.

*wants to ask for more, but hopes it isn't posted during the day - very undignified sitting in the office and sniffling*

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

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 8:46 pm

Frances - it has to be posted during the day - Rachael posts when at work most of the time!

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

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 8:53 pm

Wow. I've just caught up on the last few pages.
This is so powerfully written - I'm feeling very sorry for Jo as well.

Quote:

Hang on, would the CS have even been set up if she was never born? I thought the only reason why Madge didn't go out to India with Dick was because Joey was too delicate for the climate.

I was thinking the same thing! But it does make sense that without the CS there would be no story.

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

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 9:08 pm

Wow... this could really mess with your head! No CS? That's just unthinkable!!

#165: Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 9:29 pm

*sniffling*

(Of course, some MORE might make me feel better and less traumatised etc)

#166: Author: BethC, Location: Worcester, UK

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 9:43 pm

Rachael, this is brilliant! I'm another that hasn't seen the film, but am finding this really fascinating - please may we have some more soon? Smile

#167: Author: Rosie, Location: Huntingdonshire/Bangor

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 10:39 pm

Frances wrote:

Just wondering about the impact of Robin's early death on other people's lives. She may not play a major role in later books, but there are a couple of incidents.

Wasn't it Rob who first rushed out to the mob in Spartz in Exile?

#168: Author: Amanda M, Location: Wakefield

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2004 10:46 pm

Rosie wrote:

Frances wrote:

Just wondering about the impact of Robin's early death on other people's lives. She may not play a major role in later books, but there are a couple of incidents.

Wasn't it Rob who first rushed out to the mob in Spartz in Exile?

I think you're right, in which case, I'm not looking forward to the Exile sections at all Sad

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

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 12:55 am

*sobs*

thank you Rachael.... more please!!

#170: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 2:58 am

Amanda M wrote:

Rosie wrote:

Frances wrote:

Just wondering about the impact of Robin's early death on other people's lives. She may not play a major role in later books, but there are a couple of incidents.

Wasn't it Rob who first rushed out to the mob in Spartz in Exile?

I think you're right, in which case, I'm not looking forward to the Exile sections at all Sad

Wouldn't they actually be better?

*ducks*

I mean the the Jewish couple (whose name escapes me) were killed by the mob later anyway. If Robin hadn't rushed in, the girls wouldn't have had to flee and the priest wouldn't have been killed (for helping them flee).

#171: Author: Nicole, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 6:36 am

Rachael - wow, this keeps getting better and better.

We've seen what could have happened to Juliet, Grizel and Robin - who's next?

Judging from Lesley's post, I think I'll have to go get the tissue box.

#172: Author: Frances, Location: Milton Keynes

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 7:01 am

Lesley wrote:

Frances - it has to be posted during the day - Rachael posts when at work most of the time!

I don't know where authorities get these statistics from about the most number of working hours being lost to back-ache, or flu or malingering etc - seems to me the most have to be lost by people writing, posting and reading drabbles. I'm just dreading our help-desk doing another system sweep, discovering how much time I'm spending on here and blocking access. Shocked

#173: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 8:22 am

“What would have happened to people like Zephyr and Adrienne?” she asked suddenly.
Mademoiselle permitted herself an inward smile, approving of Joey’s train of thought.
“I know little of their stories because I was not there but my research tells me that there was nobody there to take Zephyr Burthill to task about her spoilt behaviour; there was nobody there to offer support and advice to Phoebe Wychcote and nobody there to refer Phoebe to Dr Peters. Zephyr bullied Phoebe into submission and bought the cello. Once she had it, she was no happier than before because one instrument can not make a musician. In fact, it served only to emphasise her shortcomings as a cellist. Of course, she found other reasons to blame for her poor performance and became as much of an insufferable woman as she was a girl. Phoebe was devastated at losing such a tangible memory of her father but her sorrow was overshadowed by her crippling arthritis. When her own doctor died, there was no one suitably qualified locally to help her and she soon became permanently invalided. Debby looked after her until she died prematurely after the rheumatism weakened her heart.”
Having feared as much, Jo could do no more than acknowledge Mademoiselle’s words with a brief inclination of her head.

“As for Adrienne? Unfortunately the nuns who were sent to help her when her father died were not quite as assertive as Soeur Marie-Cecile and there was an unpleasant scene. Adrienne was successfully removed and taken to the convent to be educated but she never had the opportunities that a scholarship would have afforded. She went to work in an office at an early age and although she has done well, her career is limited without a degree and she has no financial backing to make that possible.” Therese paused to gauge Jo’s reaction. “Don’t look like that, Joey … she is safe and healthy with a steady income. She knows no other life and she is content with her lot.”
Jo shrugged, shaking her head. It seemed so desperately unfair and such a waste of potential. Mademoiselle watched, wondering whether to say more.

#174: Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 8:27 am

*sniffle* *wibble*

Thank you Rachael

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

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 9:11 am

Thanks Rachael, so Robin also had an impact too!

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

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 9:45 am

Not particularly sorry for Zephyr - she really was insufferable! - but poor Adrienne!

#177: Author: Ruth, Location: Lincolnshire, England

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 9:57 am

MORE PLEASE! I WANT TO KNOW WHAT JACK WOULD BE LIKE UNABLE TO MARRY JOEY!

#178: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 1:53 pm

Rachael, this is wonderful, please post some more.

#179: Author: Simone, Location: Newton le Willows

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 2:52 pm

Rachael - agree with everyone here - this is wonderfull - more please

#180: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 3:21 pm

Just had a thought, No CS, no CBB! Runs away and hides.

#181: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 3:37 pm

I'd best not post any more then ................................. Wink

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

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 3:41 pm

RACHAEL!!

Post post post! Don't listen to the yibblers... Very Happy

#183: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 4:12 pm

Just for you, Laura!! Smile

“You may not know it, Joey but Robin also helped Deira O’Hagan … la petite Robin was only very young but she provided much needed support to Deira when she was wrestling with feelings of guilt and remorse after she threw that snowball with the stone at Grizel. Robin helped her to see that it was best to own up and apologise. Without her intervention, Deira would have carried that secret to her grave and never been able to heal the rift with Grizel. They would never have invested in their store; Deira would never have re-married and Grizel would not have met Neil …
“That doesn’t make sense, Therese. You’ve already shown me Grizel and she left the school before Deira even joined … she’s incapacitated now …”
“Oh Joey, don’t you see? I’m trying to show you that each of us has many possible destinies, many paths that can be taken in our lives … but it’s our every choice, our every decision which affects that route. Think: If Grizel herself had chosen not to climb the Tiernjoch, then she might well have grown to be Head Girl anyway. Nothing in this life is pre-ordained, Joey and to some extent we can be masters of our own destiny but the people that we meet or don’t meet also affect our journey, whether by providing obstacles, or guiding and re-directing us … some things we can control, Joey but others are beyond our sphere of influence and we must all make the best of what we’re given. For each of us there is a myriad possibilities, not only when it comes to leading our own life but just as importantly, in appreciating the impact we have on those around us. It is a big responsibility, cherie, and very few people are given the opportunity to fully see this … I am showing you just one alternative of what might have happened if you had never been born … in reality, there are countless more …”

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

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 4:18 pm

Oooh. Doesn't this make you think, though?! Like what would have happened today if I hadn't done Sue's photocopying... (work experience) etc! Confused

#185: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 4:35 pm

I forgot Robin's intervention with Deira. Scary thoughts!

*sits down to reflect on life, while waiting for MORE

Please Wink

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

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 8:27 pm

Thanks Rachael - looks as good here as when I first saw it.

Next bit's really sad!!! ROFL

#187: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 9:26 pm

With you rolling on the floor laughing I'm sure it is Lesley. Don't get too hooked on this gloating business!!!!

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

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 9:28 pm

*has to seriously refrain from throttling Lesley*

*sits down to ponder upon the meaning of life*

Oh, right, the meaning of life is CS! In particular CS drabbles

Rachael...

I'm really getting the hang of this subtelty lark *g*

Last edited by Gem on Thu Jul 29, 2004 9:50 pm; edited 1 time in total

#189: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 9:46 pm

*ponders*

More please! Very Happy

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

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 9:48 pm

Pat wrote:

With you rolling on the floor laughing I'm sure it is Lesley. Don't get too hooked on this gloating business!!!!

Already have - it's addictive - can see why Rachael loves it so much! And I'm laughing because I'm gloating - it really is very sad, and unexpected!

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

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 9:55 pm

Lesley! I'm now trying to imagine the most unexpected thing possible, and it's confusing me! (not that it takes much, admittedly)

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

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2004 11:49 pm

*wanders in clutching a box of tissues, in preparation for the next bit!*

#193: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Fri Jul 30, 2004 1:27 am

*sits near Vikki and the tissues*
*ignores Lesley completely*- it's the only way, really!!! Prevent them from having their gloating fun and they'll stop soon enough Laughing

#194: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Fri Jul 30, 2004 2:28 am

Unless Vikki's got the tissues ready because she already knows what's happening -- a subtle gloat, as it were. On the other hand, she may just be judging from past posts Crying or Very sad

*Sincerely hopes Rachael believes in a traditional Capraesque ending!*

#195: Author: Nicole, Location: New Zealand

Posted: Fri Jul 30, 2004 5:17 am

Awesome, Rachael!

*Agrees with Kathy - this had better have a Capraesque ending*

*Replenishes tissues and sits down waiting for more*

#196: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Fri Jul 30, 2004 8:16 am

A Capraesque ending, huh?
Well, the subtitle does say "with apologies to Frank Capra" ...
*sighs*
What to do .... ? Confused

........................ Wink

This post's a wee bit sad cos you're not really expecting it to happen - I certainly wasn't!

Satisfied that Joey had sufficient food for thought, she returned to the aftermath of Robin’s death.
“Ted Humphries never forgave your sister,” Mademoiselle resumed implacably. “He had entrusted her to Margharite’s care and she had failed him. She was not able to make her peace with him before he died in his climbing accident. There was a lot of ill feeling and Margharite bore the brunt of it. She took it badly, Joey. She had taken the Robin to her heart like a mother and she felt responsible for the accident …”
“But you were there to help her see that she wasn’t to blame …” urged Joey, “And Jem … he would have comforted her, surely?”
Therese shook her head.
“But why ever not? He was always coming down from the San to see Madge … any excuse and he’d be round at the Chalet …”
“Joey, Madge and Jem met only briefly during that train crash at the end of our first term. There wasn’t time to form a connection …”
“No, Therese, Jem was there when I was skating … he had to fall on me to stop his skates going over my hand and he was the one carried me back to …” Joey broke off as realisation dawned. “But if I wasn’t there that night, then he’d have had no reason to visit the school … and he and Madge would never have …”
”Exactly, Joey. You must understand that the link between the school and the sanatorium was primarily forged because of the relationship between Madge and Jem, founder members of those establishments. Oh, we saw a great deal of the doctors there, what with one outbreak and another but James Russell was far too senior to bother with the routine illnesses and accidents of schoolgirls. We saw more of Gottfried Mensch who was smitten with Gisela and then Dr di Bersetti who married Bette … but there was no Chalet School bed in the Sanaotorium, no Sale to raise money …

Jo looked suitably startled at all this information but she honed in on the key point.
“You mean they never married?” her jaw dropped. “But what about David and Sybs and Josette, Ailie and the twins?”
“Never born, Josephine, like yourself …”
“And Dick and Mollie?”
“They had their children as you would expect and the elder ones came over to stay with their Auntie Madge. It was very difficult for Margharite though … without a male around the house, Rix and Jackie became very difficult and without you she had no moral support. Eventually, she had to choose between the school and the children. With no husband or family of her own, she had channelled all her energies into the school and after Robin’s premature death, she felt uncomfortable being responsible for very young children. She wrote to Dick and Mollie, explaining that it wasn’t working and they returned to India. It was heart-breaking, Joey, just as they arrived there was an outbreak of cholera and all three of the older children succumbed. In one weekend, the Bettanys lost Rix, Peggy and Bride …”
Mademoiselle laid a hand on Jo’s arm as she swayed. The surroundings returned to the familiarity of the study and Joey found herself sitting in an armchair.
“Dick and Mollie tried not to blame Margharite but a distance grew between them. Contact became increasingly sporadic and eventually even letters and cards were no longer exchanged. Margharite was never to meet Maeve or Maurice …”
“Oh, how terrible!” muttered Joey, struggling to recover from the shock. “All those seemingly insignificant events leading to such a tragic outcome … but what about when they returned to England?”
“They never did, Joey, They sat out the war in India and that’s where they remain today or at least Dick and the children do … Mollie refused to be parted from them, war or not, and they became very settled. Unfortunately, when she became ill years later she was not able to get the right treatment and she died when they operated on her.”
"So Daphne ...?"
"Was never born, Joey."

#197: Author: Ray, Location: Bristol, England

Posted: Fri Jul 30, 2004 8:20 am

Oh...wow.

Ray * Crying or Very sad

#198: Author: Lulie, Location: Middlesbrough

Posted: Fri Jul 30, 2004 8:26 am

But you can't kill Bride off!!!!

*realises that Rachael just has*
*goes and grabs some of Vikki's tissues*

#199: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Jul 30, 2004 8:55 am

Rachael, this is now getting to be seriously scary!

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

Posted: Fri Jul 30, 2004 9:06 am