The CBB :: View topic - Just an Ordinary Woman

#1: Just an Ordinary Woman - Part Three Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 6:55 pm

Archived for length 25/11/04
Part One
Part Two
~Vikki~

Rosalind drew back slightly, “Of course it’s a ‘yes’ you stupid man! What, did you think that was my idea of letting you down gently?”

“Ouch! The famous Miss Moore sarcasm. Kelly warned me about that!” Geoff was grinning.

Rosalind’s eyes narrowed, “Oh that’s nothing to my worst,” she promised grimly, “And I can see you being the first recipient from now on!” She moved slightly and was unable to prevent an agonized yelp. After a short time biting her lip she was able to speak once more, “Well they always used to say that my words could hurt, don’t think the people that said that had ever broken a bone!” She smiled rather weakly at Geoff, but the man could see beads of sweat on her forehead and could feel his hand being crushed by hers.

Geoff slowly pushed himself a little more upright, braving the intense nausea and dizziness, “Lean against something, Ros,” he said thickly, “so that you can relax, it’ll help.”

Moving very slowly Ros managed to change position slightly so that she was leaning against the wall of the pit. Her right foot was well supported on top of a large mound of dirt. As she leant back Geoff saw her entire body relax somewhat. “That feels a little better,” she whispered, “though I can’t say this is how I intended that we spend the night!”

Geoff crawled over to collapse with his head in her lap, “What do you mean?” he said slowly, “You’re getting to spend the night alone with your love, beneath the stars on a warm, sultry and romantic evening. What more do you want?”

Ros leant down to kiss Geoff, when she straightened again she replied, “Well, since you ask, some morphine, a couple of paramedics and even,” she broke off to laugh before continuing, “I hate to say it, but even a doctor!”

Geoff looked puzzled, “What’s wrong with wanting to see a doctor?” he asked, “Given our present situation that seems reasonable.”

It took Rosalind a while to stop giggling, “Remind me to explain some time about Chalet School Mistresses being rescued by doctors,” she managed to reply.

“OK then,” Geoff still looked puzzled, “but you forgot one thing,” he indicated the other side of the pit, “we could do with the Army Bomb Disposal Unit, too.”

“Yes, well, I’ve been trying to forget that!” Ros admitted dryly.

Geoff closed his eyes as an intense tiredness swept over him, “It’s probably a dud,” he mumbled, feeling himself sinking into sleep, “tired now, Ros, g’night.”

There was a few seconds peace, then Geoff found himself being shaken quite vigorously, “What is it? What’s wrong?” Geoff was quite sharp.

“You can’t fall asleep, Geoff,” Rosalind was adamant, “You need to stay awake, your head injury, I’m sure you’re concussed. It could be dangerous!”

The obvious concern and worry in her voice reached Geoff where a less worried voice may not, he opened his eyes. “OK Ros,” he said, “I’ll try and stay awake,” he lifted his arm and tried to focus on his watch, without success. “What time is it?”

Ros looked at her watch, “Just after two,” she said, “And they’re not likely to start looking for us until breakfast, after eight,”

“Well think of something to keep me awake then, love, because otherwise I’ll just sleep.”

#2: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 7:07 pm

Thank you Lesley. I love the banter - especially the bit about being rescued by doctors Laughing

But ............ I'm still wibbling about their medical conditions and .......

THAT BOMB!

Please can it now be the next morning and they are found?

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

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 7:24 pm

Now, how will she keep him awake all those hours?

Maybe a rendition of all the CS legends he ought to know, or maybe singing the Red Sarafan? Razz

Are we to see any more tonight Lesley, or may I go to bed early??? Laughing

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

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 8:34 pm

It was a long night, perhaps the only good thing about the night was that it was reasonably warm, neither of them would have been good candidates to survive the night had they been in England where temperatures had been close to freezing recently. Ros probably found it far easier to stay awake, seeing that every movement brought an agonizing pain from her ankle, but she had problems keeping Geoff from drifting off to sleep.

They tried a number of different techniques to stay awake, firstly relating stories of their past lives and earliest memories. Geoff was intrigued that Rosalind, along with everyone else from the original chalet school, only had memories from when she had joined the school.

“So how old were you then?”

Rosalind shrugged slightly, “Early to mid twenties I think,” she said, “It was just after the war and I had just come over from Canada.”

“Had you? You don’t sound Canadian.”

“I’m not, at least I don’t think I am,” Rosalind replied absently, “In another book I’m English, and my passport now says I’m English.”

“And none of you have any memories?”

“Some have,” Rosalind replied, “If things came up about their past that were in the books, I know both Hilda and Nell have some, and, of course, Nancy was at the School so her memories start when she was about sixteen, while Kathie’s were from age 22 or so. But for most of us, no.”

“Will have to make some stuff up then,” Geoff said very slowly, “Think of things you can use!”

By the time daylight broke, Rosalind was feeling worried, Geoff was taking longer and longer to respond to her questions, regardless of all she did, he was slowly slipping into unconsciousness. She was so worried that, to begin with, she failed to notice that they had been found.

“Hello! Hey, can you hear me down there?” the young Australian voice suddenly broke through Ros’s stupor, she looked up in some confusion. At the edge of the pit stood a young man wearing the uniform of the RCS Security Guards. When he saw that Rosalind was looking up at him he grinned, “Miss Moore and Colonel Stevens?”

Rosalind nodded, “Yes, we’ll both need an ambulance,” she called out, “And you’ll need to…” she wasn’t allowed to finish.

“Hang on a sec, love, I’ll just call it in,” he pulled a radio from his jacket pocket…

“NO!” the shout from Rosalind stopped him, in fact it startled him so much he dropped the radio,

“What the Hell?”

“Before you use your radio,” Rosalind’s voice was commanding, “Look over in the far corner, what do you see?”

The guard responded to the command and looked, “Jesus Christ! That’s a shell!” The man swallowed, “OK love, no radios, I was in the military, I understand. I’ll go and get help!”

Last edited by Lesley on Sat Jan 08, 2005 9:48 pm; edited 1 time in total

#5: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 8:40 pm

Thank goodness that help has arrived! Still wibbling over Geoff!

#6: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 8:48 pm

No pre-CS memories! That hadn't occurred to me. I figured they just weren't talked about in the books, not that they were missing altogether. Sad

*issues complaint against EBD for lack of backstories*

(hope the bomb squad arrives soon)

#7: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 8:50 pm

Thanks Lesley! Kiss

#8: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 8:53 pm

Well at least they've been found! Now just the small matter of the bomb and Geoff's head injury... Confused

Thanks Lesley Very Happy

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

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 10:19 pm

*wibbling slightly less than previously*

#10: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 10:20 pm

Thank goodness for Rosalind's quick thinking!

That's fascinating that they have no memories, prior to the their appearing in CS. It makes sense to me when you think about it but then I'm into Sci Fi Wink

accustomed to believing 6 impossible things before breakfast.

(I've a feeling I've misquoted some author there - no doubt someone will come up with the reference and correct me reading

)

thanks Lesley. A much appreciated reprieve!

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

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 10:32 pm

The Red Queen from Alice's Adventures Through the Looking Glass, Patmac.

#12: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 10:36 pm

Red Queen wrote:

'I daresay you haven't had much practice,' said the Queen. 'When I was your age, I always did it for half-an-hour a day. Why, sometimes I've believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.'

#13: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 10:54 pm

*still wibbling considerably*

Will somebody let me know when it's safe to come out from under the desk please? (Although I have a horrible feeling that it will be around Christmas... Wink

)

Thank you muchly Lesley.

#14: Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 2:37 am

Alex wrote:

Miss Di wrote:

After all, you wouldn't want The Real Chalet School being prosecuted for breaching occupational health and safety legislation.

Don't give her ideas!

Wot me?

whistles, looks around innocently and points Lesley to
[url]http://www.workcover.vic.gov.au/vwa/publica.nsf/InterPubDocsA/
088C2AD1FBC65ABBCA256C0200090C50/$File/incident_notification_info.pdf[/url]

Can they afford a $40,000 fine while fighting off a hostile takeover?

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

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 5:13 am

Miss Di wrote:

Alex wrote:

Miss Di wrote:

After all, you wouldn't want The Real Chalet School being prosecuted for breaching occupational health and safety legislation.

Don't give her ideas!

Wot me?

whistles, looks around innocently and points Lesley to:
[url]http://www.workcover.vic.gov.au/vwa/publica.nsf/InterPubDocsA/
088C2AD1FBC65ABBCA256C0200090C50/$File/incident_notification_info.pdf:[/url]

Can they afford a $40,000 fine while fighting off a hostile takeover?

Many thanks Miss Di, just like the RIDDOR regulations in UK then - BTW my profession is Occupational Health Advisor. Wink

#16: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 7:47 am

thanks to Ann and Kathy for the source of the quote! I just couldn't recall where it came from at that moment!

I saw Lesley had posted and thought it was more!

*stumbles off sobbing because there isn't*

#17: Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 9:22 am

Heres hoping Lesley gets home early from work today and is feeling in a "post happy" mood and we get lots of updates all evening....

Well a girl can dream can't she Wink

Thanks Lesley, looking forward to finding out where the bomb came from and why its still there and whose trying to stage a hostile takeover

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

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 6:13 pm

Thank you Lesley!!!

Although I have an idea you are planning horrible things now!

#19: Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 7:18 pm

Vikki wrote:

Thank you Lesley!!!

Although I have an idea you are planning horrible things now!

Lesley plan horrible things???? Shocked

Surely not Wink

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

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 7:38 pm

Really looking forward to more! Very Happy

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

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 7:56 pm

Things seemed to happen very quickly then, the Security Guard ran all the way back to the School to inform John Coates of his find. As John happened to be in the Headmistress’s Study at the time, he was able to speak to everyone concerned. It seemed only minutes later, though Rosalind felt certain that it was longer, that she had fallen asleep, but suddenly there were a number of people lining the rim of the pit, looking down. She recognized a number of them,

“Nell? Is that you?”

Nell Wilson nodded, “Hang on, Rosalind, we’re just finding a ladder to get down to you.” She ignored Ros’s protests that she should stay away and was one of the first down the pit, carrying a first aid bag.

“Nell, there’s a bomb,” Rosalind tried to warn the Deputy Head,

“Yes, so I heard,” Nell replied, she was checking over Geoff while she was speaking, “You do realize the amount of paperwork this is going to give Hilda, don’t you?” She turned to speak to one of the Security Guards, detailing that Geoff would need to be lifted out first.

At ground level a number of other people were arranging a special type of stretcher, Rosalind recognized it as one used for mountain rescue, Ruth Derwent smiled down, “Knew we’d find a use for these,” she said. Along with a number of other Staff, those that had not left with the Middles on their trip, she lowered the stretcher. In the pit Nell was helped by the Guard and two of the Prefects, they swiftly moved Geoff onto the stretcher and strapped him in. Geoff was only semi-conscious, awakening only when exposed to painful stimulation.

Up on the surface Miss Annersley was speaking to a Police Sergeant, he had arrived at almost the same time as the ambulance, however both had remained at a distance from the activity.

“The area is unsafe, Miss Annersley,” Sergeant Wells had said earnestly, “No one should approach until after the Army Bomb Disposal people say it is safe. You must order your people back, or I will!”

The Head looked across at the police officer, “You will not, Sergeant,” she said, “all the people currently involved in retrieving Miss Moore and Colonel Stevens are volunteers, they are all adults. In fact, the only reason I am here while my Deputy is directing the rescue, is because Nell has a far greater knowledge of First Aid than I. The two casualties are both seriously hurt, they may not be able to wait until the Army have ‘made safe’ their weapon.”

“Procedure requires that rescue is not attempted until the area is safe,” the Sergeant said stubbornly, “By refusing to obey orders you could, as the senior authority, be liable for arrest for obstructing the Police.”

“I do hope that was not a threat, Sergeant?” The voice was as calm and gentle as always, but the Sergeant suddenly flushed and swallowed.

“No ma’am,” he said quickly.

Miss Annersley smiled slightly, then turned her head back to watch the activity over by the pit. The stretcher containing Geoff was the first to appear, as it came up over the edge, willing hands grabbed it and quickly carried it across to where the ambulances waited, a few minutes later the stretcher containing Rosalind also appeared and was transported the same way. Miss Wilson walked across to where the Head stood,

“Both out of there Hilda,” she said with an air of triumph.

Miss Annersley nodded, turning to John Coates she spoke, “Clear the area, John, give Sergeant Wells our complete co-operation.”

John Coates nodded and looked toward the police officer, as he did there was the sound of a number of vehicles, the Army had arrived.

#22: Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 8:02 pm

Heaves big sigh of relief

thankyou Lesley We are not worthy

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

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 8:12 pm

Thank you oh shiny one Kiss

#24: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 8:30 pm

Thanks Lesley, now they are safely out of the pit, can the bomb explode now please?

#25: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 8:49 pm

Ellie wrote:

Thanks Lesley, now they are safely out of the pit, can the bomb explode now please?

Erm, Lesley! I'd give them five minutes to get away from the area. You may know how big the bomb is (you wrote it after all Confused

) but do you know how far away is safe?

Not a holocaust after all that, please.

Thank you for a nice shiny post Laughing

*Message to Pim: I think you can come out from under the desk now Wink

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

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 9:03 pm

Thanks Lesley, not only for rescuing them at last, but also for letting us have a 'Hilda stare' into the bargain. Laughing

#27: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 9:08 pm

Whew! What a relief. I loved the line about all the extra paperwork for Hilda- thanks for the laugh. I needed it!

Now *being bloodthirsty* can't you find somewhere nice'n'safe where that bomb can explode? Twisted Evil

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

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 9:10 pm

Thank you Lesley!!!
*waiting eagerly for more!*

#29: Author: Kim, Location: Tipperary, Ireland

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 9:12 pm

Kathye wrote:

looking forward to finding out where the bomb came from and why its still there

wasn't the site an old military facility so they probably "lost" it - and how many others????

Now Lesley could you get back to something simple like planning the wedding - wibbling at thought of the unexploded bombs you've left behind in previous posts

#30: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 9:23 pm

*crawls out from under the desk tentatively* I KNOW what Lesley's cliffs are like... Wink

But thank you muchly for getting them out safe! *breathes*

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

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 9:32 pm

That afternoon Miss Annersley was able, finally, to visit the Real Hospital. When Geoff and Rosalind had been taken there, Ruth Derwent had followed in her car, she had taken Kelly Stevens with her. Nell Wilson had joined them a short time later and was able to keep her friend updated as to how both patients were progressing.

Back at the School the Army Bomb Disposal Team had taken only a short time to confirm that the shell was live and that it could have been detonated by radio waves. In discussion with Miss Annersley the Major in charge had also been able to allay her fears about other shells hidden within the School Grounds.

“I’ve accessed the records about this one,” he said cheerfully, “According to its serial number it was one of a cluster of shells sent out to sea. The others all exploded at the same time, and this one was thought to have done so, no one can have seen that it doubled back on itself, to bury itself here.”

”How can that be? Surely it would have left a crater, when it fell?”

“Not really,” the Major shook his head, “it would have just burrowed its way it, would have looked like a rabbit hole, and there’s enough of them around here!”

“And will you be able to disarm the bomb, Major? Or perhaps use a ‘controlled explosion’ I believe is the term?”

“I’m just awaiting confirmation from my people,” the Major began, there was a knock at the door – they were in the Head’s Study. A soldier stood there, he saluted,

“Sir, Captain Stuart’s compliments, Sir, the bomb has been made safe, it’s being loaded onto the four-tonner now.”

“Excellent!” the officer rose, “We’ll leave you in peace now, Miss Annersley, may I ask, the two that discovered the shell? How are they?”

“They are both in surgery at the moment, Major.”

“Ah, well pass on my compliments to them, had they not discovered the shell when they did, and ensured that no one used radios or phones nearby, we could have had a tragedy.”

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

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 9:34 pm

*happy dancing*

RCS is so very shiny... I would try to formulate coherent criticism, but my brain is currently resting after the evil-essay *sigh*

thank you Lesley Very Happy

#33: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 9:42 pm

*circles most recent post suspiciously* Safe? Hah! There's something more to this (NB to the person who asked for 'something simple'- this is LESLEY we're talking about. She don't do 'simple.')
..........................Very suspicious. Bomb appeared out of nowhere, did it? So who's the villain this time?

Lovely post though! Very Happy

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

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 9:43 pm

Ooooh!!!! thank you Lesley!!!

#35: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 10:15 pm

Glad to hear they are both out and the bomb is now safe but .....

They are in surgery? Should I wibble some more?

*thinks* Can't do any harm to be on the safe side Shocked

Thank you Lesley

#36: Author: Kim, Location: Tipperary, Ireland

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 10:26 pm

Lisa_T wrote:

(NB to the person who asked for 'something simple'- this is LESLEY we're talking about. She don't do 'simple.

Lisa - just hoping she might have a rush of blood to the head and do something unexpected (for her) Rolling Eyes

#37: Author: Alex, Location: Manchester

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 11:23 pm

Maybe the bomb is really an accident and Lesley's jsut trying to distract us from the hostile takeover.

#38: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 11:57 pm

Thank you Lesley Very Happy

So glad they got out of there ok

*looks suspiciously at all the other rabbit holes*

Liz

#39: Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 5:24 am

Lesley wrote:

Many thanks Miss Di, just like the RIDDOR regulations in UK then - BTW my profession is Occupational Health Advisor. Wink

Snap. Well actually I always thought I was a professional librarian. Dunno how I ended up in OHS and worker's comp.

Lurving this BTW. Just in case I hadn't mentioned it. Laughing

#40: Author: Cumbrian Rachel, Location: near High Wycombe

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 9:15 am

Yay! The cliff is over Very Happy

Thank you Lesley!

*now awaiting the next cliff!*

#41: Author: Nicci, Location: UK

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 11:27 am

Phew!

*sighs huge sigh of relief*

Nice one Lesley.

But I still want/need to know about that early comment about Cherry and her kid. Something about Hilda and the parents...whats going on?

Thank you thank you thank you thank you.

ps. loved Nell's comment about Hilda's paperwork!!

#42: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 5:52 pm

*still looking a little doubtful* Thank you Lesley.

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

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 6:28 pm

When Miss Annersley arrived at the Real Hospital she was met by Miss Wilson, “How are they, Nell?”

Miss Wilson drew her friend into a small waiting room; they both sat down, “Rosalind is OK,” she said quickly, “She’s broken both the bones in her lower leg, the tibia and fibula, she’s in surgery at the moment. Apparently she’ll need to have pins and a plate to fix the bone, but it’s a fairly routine procedure and she should make a good recovery.”

The Head nodded, relief apparent on her face, “What of the Colonel?” she asked softly.

Nell Wilson sighed, “They’re not sure, Hilda, he’s in surgery at the moment, X-rays showed he’d got a depressed fracture, whatever that means. Daisy didn’t say much, but she was worried.”

“What about Ruth and Kelly?”

“Ruth’s worried, you can see it, but she‘s trying to hide it, and she’s giving Kelly a lot of encouragement. But the kid is only fourteen, and she’s been through a lot. I think it’s worse for Kelly because she has no other relations.”

They both stood up, “Well, let’s go and join them, Nell,”

Miss Derwent and Kelly Stevens were sat in the main waiting room on the first floor, the same room where, only a few short months ago, Kelly’s father had sat awaiting news of his daughter. Now the situation was reversed, and Kelly sat, huddled up in one corner, her eyes were red and puffy from crying, but she no longer cried, instead staring blindly into the middle distance with unseeing eyes. Sat next to her with an arm around the girl, was Ruth Derwent. It was obvious that Ruth was also extremely worried, both about her friend and about Geoff Stevens. However she was attempting to cover that while giving comfort to Kelly.

They both looked up as the two Heads entered the room, “Any more news?” Ruth asked hopefully, her expression darkened slightly as Nell Wilson shook her head.

Miss Annersley and Miss Wilson exchanged a quick glance, “I’ll take Ruth?” the murmured question from Miss Wilson elicited a confirming nod from Miss Annersley. They both walked in to the room.

Nell Wilson went across to the Senior Mistress and smiling, “Ruth, you’ve been sat here for ages, you could do with a break,” she reached out a hand and Miss Derwent automatically took it, she was then hauled to her feet, “Come on, you need a walk around the block, you’ll do no-one any good if you vegetate here.”

Miss Derwent attempted to protest, “But what about Kelly?”

“I’ll stay with Kelly, Ruth,” it was Miss Annersley’s low tones “Don’t worry!”

She watched as the Senior Mistress allowed herself to be pushed out of the waiting room by the Deputy Head and the door was firmly closed behind them. Inside the room there was silence for a time. Miss Annersley went to sit beside Kelly, she said nothing, just waited. After some time Kelly looked up,

“Miss Annersley? Is there any more news? About Dad, I mean?”

Miss Annersley shook her head, “Nothing yet, Kelly, he is still in the Operating Theatre having surgery.”

“But they’re having to operate on his head, aren’t they? I mean, no one that has brain surgery is ever right in the head again! I’ve lost my Dad, haven’t I?” A small number of tears started to fall.

The Head smiled as she reached across to draw the girl into an embrace, “Well now, I don’t think I can agree with you there, Kelly,” her voice was full of amusement, despite the severity of the situation, “after all, a long time ago I had to have an operation on my brain!”

“You did?” Kelly’s voice held a small amount of hope.

Miss Annersley nodded, “I hope you consider that I’m ‘right in the head’, Kelly?”

Kelly looked up at her Headmistress, her face showing the two contrasting emotions, one of horror at accusing Miss Annersley and the other amusement at the same. Catching sight of the twinkle in the Head’s eye, she smiled, “Definitely, Miss Annersley!” she said firmly.

There was silence for a time, Kelly content to rest her head on Miss Annersley’s shoulder. After a time she spoke again, “I can’t lose him, you know.”

“That hasn’t been decided yet, Kelly,” Miss Annersley was quick to reply, “He may make a full recovery, we don’t know yet.”

“Yes, I know,” Kelly’s voice was a little indistinct as her head was half buried in Miss Annersley’s shoulder, “But he’s the only family I’ve got. I don’t have any aunts or uncles or cousins. My grandparents are dead. If Dad dies I’ll be totally on my own.”

The Head turned and lifted Kelly up slightly, “You would not be alone, Kelly,” she said firmly, “In the event that the worst occurs you would not be allowed to cope on your own. You are a member of the Real Chalet School, as such you are one of our family, and you will never be alone.” She held Kelly’s gaze for some time.

Kelly stared back at the Head, hope surfacing, she nodded slightly before burying her head back in Miss Annersley’s shoulder, but this time her tears held more than a little relief.

#44: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 6:37 pm

Yay for Hilda. But I really hope that Kelly doesn't need the RCS family.

Thanks Lesley.

#45: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 6:51 pm

Thanks Lesley

*wibbling for Geoff*

Liz

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

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 6:55 pm

Waaah!!!!!!
Lesley, that was beautiful! thank you! (*reaches for tissues*)
Really hope Kelly doesn't need the RCS family, but glad that they're there if she does need them!

#47: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 7:46 pm

I jsut knew my wibbling wouldn't be superluous! Thank you Lesley. Hilda's comfort was absolutely perfect for Kelly.

I do hope Geoff recovers though!

*wibbles a bit more and refills the tissue box for the next visitor*

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

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 7:57 pm

When Miss Wilson led Miss Derwent from the waiting room it was with no clear idea about what she was going to do. Clearly both Kelly and Ruth needed some help and support, equally clearly, Hilda was the one to deal with Kelly. Nell Wilson was prepared to admit that she was just as capable of running the School as her friend, but, even after all these years, she acknowledged that Hilda had a certain edge when it came to dealing with the emotions of young girls. Obviously, then, that left Ruth Derwent to her.

The two women walked in silence for a time, Miss Wilson led them both down the stairs and into the bright sunshine. She looked up at the sky, “We’ve been lucky with the weather this Half Term,” she said, finishing her sentence with a mildly interrogative note.

Miss Derwent looked up for a moment, “Yes,” she said shortly.

Nell Wilson sighed; they walked on a little further, “Daisy said that Rosalind is going to be OK,” she said finally.

“Yes, she told me too, but although her bones will heal, I’m not sure about…”

Miss Wilson stopped, forcing Ruth to stop too, “About?”

Ruth hesitated for a moment, then seeing only friendship and concern in the grey eyes watching she continued. “I’m not sure what she’ll do if Geoff dies, Nell.” Ruth swallowed and her deep brown eyes darkened slightly, “She told me, before they took her down, Geoff proposed last night, she accepted!”

“But that’s wonderful!” Nell grinned widely.

Ruth shook her head, “Not if Geoff dies, Nell,” she said soberly, she looked across at the Deputy Head, “If he dies, Nell, Rosalind and Kelly, they’ll both be devastated, understandably so. They’ll need all the help and support I can give, but I’ve never had to deal with any of that, I wouldn’t know what to do.”

She turned away slightly, “I know it sounds dreadful, thinking of myself, when my best friend might be about to lose her love, but that’s all I can think of!” She sounded like she was almost in tears.

Nell caught her arm, “It’s not dreadful, Ruth, it’s perfectly understandable. And the fact that you’re worrying about it now, proves just what a good friend you are.” Nell thought for a moment, then continued, “You know what Hilda went through? Last year? It wasn’t something that I’d ever come across before; I had no idea how to react when she was telling me of all things she endured. The only thing I could think of was to keep telling her that I was there, that she could lean on me, that I wouldn’t leave her. It proved to be enough, perhaps it will for you too, if the worst happens here.”

Ruth thought for a moment, and then gave a wintry smile, “Perhaps it will,” she said quietly, she turned away to look out on the landscape. “It’s not something any of us really had to face before, is it?”

Although quiet Nell heard her, “You mean before we entered this World?” Nell said gently,

Ruth nodded, “Yes, I mean, the story was for children, couldn’t have too many deep emotions or too much realism, could we? And if there were any serious illnesses or even any deaths well, it was always for the best, or it happened to people so remote that no one had to identify too closely with them.”

Nell walked over to stand next to Ruth, she placed her arm around the shorter woman – Ruth was an inch or two below Nell’s 5’8. “All you say is true, Ruth,” and Nell Wilson’s voice was deep with meaning, “but be honest, would you want to go back to the way we were?”

There was silence for a long time, and then Ruth smiled, “No,” she said eventually, “Regardless of what happens here, the highs of our lives now far outweigh the lows.”

#49: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 8:45 pm

*sniffles*

Thank you, Lesley.
Loving all these characters so much-
PLEASE KEEP THEM INTACT.
in all ways that matter, anyhow.

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

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 8:47 pm

*reaches blindly for the tissue box....*

#51: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Wed Nov 24, 2004 11:26 pm

*wanders equally blindly* Ow! Vikki, can't you look where you're going?

You're so right that you don't need to experience things to support others....
*feeling emotional cos I've spent all night talking about AN. BAAAAAAD idea...*

#52: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 9:46 am

(((Lisa))) (You deserve lots)

Marvellous, Lesley
Now - if you could just see to Geoff, please ...

#53: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 10:30 am

You wouldn't do that Ruth and Kelly? Surely..............

#54: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 11:19 am

Lesleeeeeeeeeeeeey, please don't do anything mean or nasty or horrible, pleeeeeeeease Sad

*goes back to hiding under the desk armed with a huge box of tissues*

#55: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 11:59 am

*Takes a handful of tissues*

That was awful and lovely at the same time, Lesley. Please don't kill Geoff.

#56: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 2:13 pm

Does Rosalind need to sing to Geoff to bring him back from the brink?

*Contemplating te restorative effects of the Red Sarafan*

Oh, and another bit would be nice, Lesleey Very Happy

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 3:00 pm

What? Still no more? Crying or Very sad

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 3:05 pm

Is she not at work Vikki?

Thank you Lesley - finally caught up after five days and missed some of those cliffs but I would like to know how Geoff's surgery is going, please?

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 8:06 pm

It was early evening before all news was received; Rosalind Moore’s surgery had gone well, following her recovery from anaesthetic she had returned to the ward. Although very drowsy she had been awake enough to speak to Ruth and to Kelly. Miss Annersley also managed to speak to the surgeon and discovered that, while the Geography Head had badly broken both bones in her leg, he had been able to repair them. She would make a full recovery in time.

One of the first things Rosalind asked was news of Geoff, but no one was able to tell her anything for a number of hours. Finally, around seven thirty, Dr Venables appeared in Rosalind’s room. She quickly looked round, Rosalind herself had been sleeping but had awoken when silence fell among her visitors, she looked across with anxious eyes. Sat next to her, holding her hand, sat Kelly. On Kelly’s other side was Ruth Derwent. Also in the room was Miss Annersley, though Miss Wilson had returned to the School to brief the rest of the Staff and students.

Dr Venables spoke directly to Kelly, “The operation is over, Kelly,” she said gently. “The surgeon has removed the piece of bone that was pressing on the brain and making your father sleepy.”

“Is he going to be OK, doctor?” Kelly’s voice was hesitant, as though she wasn’t sure if she really wanted the question answered.

Daisy Venables looked at both her and Rosalind, she smiled, “He’s going to be fine,” she said quickly, “Mr Lambert, the surgeon, thinks he’ll make a full recovery.”

At the words Kelly began to cry once more, but in with the tears was laughter, she stood up and leant over to hug Rosalind, herself not far from tears.

Dr Venables smiled round, “I’m afraid I’m going to have to ask you all to let Rosalind sleep now, she needs the rest. Kelly, you may see your father first thing tomorrow.”

At this Kelly’s face fell slightly, Miss Annersley interceded, “Daisy, I think Kelly would appreciate seeing her father now, just for a minute.”

The Medical Director bowed, “Of course, he’s in Intensive Care, Kelly, so you’ll only be able to see him through the window, he can’t have any disturbances tonight.”

“Thank you Dr Venables,”

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 8:10 pm

Awwwwww!!!!!!
Thank you Lesley!!!!!
Please don't spring any nasty suprises on them!

#61: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 8:32 pm

*breathes*

Pleeeeeeease, don't let anything else go wrong for them Lesley, please, please, please. *pleads*

#62: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 9:24 pm

Those pleadings look more for your sake than theirs!!! Rolling Eyes

#63: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 9:28 pm

*taking the last tissue from the box and looking round for more*

Thanks Lesley

Liz

#64: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 9:42 pm

*Hands Liz a fresh box*

*Rings the wholesalers just in case Rolling Eyes

*

You really had me worried there, Lesley.

Thank you.

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 10:15 pm

I see we've been archived! Rolling Eyes

This keeps up and I'm going to go into minus posts! Wink

Miss Annersley returned to the Real Chalet School with a far lighter heart, she’d left Ruth Derwent with Kelly. The hospital were able to provide beds for the pair of them overnight and they were planning to return to the School the following lunchtime. On reaching the main building, Miss Annersley walked directly across to the Staff Room. Inside everyone was subdued, waiting, they looked up eagerly at the Head’s quiet entrance. When she had delivered her news there were muffled cheers and the discreet opening of a bottle of bubbly!

Miss Annersley stayed long enough to have a few sips of the sparkling wine, then pleading pressure of work, she and Miss Wilson withdrew to the Head’s Study. On their way out, Miss Annersley indicated that Miss Wilmot and Miss Ferrars should join them. Once seated in the Study Miss Annersley looked at the two younger mistresses, “Are you both alright, now?” she asked softly.

Nancy Wilmot nodded quickly, “I think so, Hilda,” she replied, “It was just such a shock, I mean, I’d left with the Seniors before we even knew Ros was missing. Then the long wait while they were both in surgery,” she swallowed rapidly.

Kathie reached out a hand and placed it on Nancy’s shoulder, “Will it be alright if we go to the hospital tomorrow, Hilda?”

Miss Annersley smiled, “Of course, I’m sure Rosalind at least will be properly awake by then. Now, both of you are to stop worrying, and make sure you get enough sleep, we’re going to have a busy day tomorrow!”

Perhaps the Head had not realised how prophetic her words would be, but the RCS recommenced for the second half of the term with a full establishment of students, but missing two mistresses. And not just any two mistresses, but the heads of the English and Geography Department. The English Department rose to full strength from mid-morning when Miss Derwent returned from the hospital, however this still meant that the Geography Dept was below strength.

In deliberation it was decided that, rather than look for any new mistresses, the remaining Staff would cope, and any mistresses with even a smattering of knowledge of Geography was pressed into helping fill the void that Rosalind Moore’s absence had left. It wasn’t only the absence of key mistresses that added to the work, as Miss Annersley herself discovered. That evening saw Miss Annersley working late in her Study. Eventually, just after ten pm, Miss Wilson went to retrieve her,

“This has got to stop now, Hilda!” she said firmly.

The Head looked across the desk at her friend and smiled, “I’ve just about finished for the day now, Nell. I must admit though, it’s been a trying day!”

“I noticed that you had a lot of visitors,” Nell Wilson said sympathetically, “couldn’t find out any more because I was covering a number of Rosalind’s classes.”

Miss Annersley nodded and shrugged her shoulders somewhat, trying to ease the stiffness within them, “At different times during the day I have had representatives from the Police, the Army, the Building Contractor and the State of Victoria Health and Safety Department. None of them seeming prepared to listen to each other and all blaming different sections for the accident at the weekend.” She rolled her shoulders again and Miss Wilson, seeing this, moved behind her and started massaging her neck and shoulders for her.

“Thanks Nell,” she murmured, “I’ll admit, there were times during the day when I wanted to bang their heads together! I’ve not been able to take any classes today, poor Ruth has had to take them – and she’s worried sick about Rosalind, and I haven’t even switched on the PC let alone looked at my emails.”

Miss Wilson didn’t speak for a moment, intent on releasing a particularly tight knot in her friend’s neck, as it suddenly released she spoke, “Well the only thing I can say, Hilda, is that I’m glad it was you, not me!”

“Thank you Nell,” Miss Annersley retorted dryly, “That’s so encouraging!”

Last edited by Lesley on Thu Nov 25, 2004 10:32 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 10:22 pm

Thank you Lesley!!!!
And I haven't actually deleted the first portion of the thread yet........ Wink

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 10:23 pm

Vikki wrote:

Thank you Lesley!!!!
And I haven't actually deleted the first portion of the thread yet........ Wink

Good grief! I'll have no posts left! Laughing

#68: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 10:25 pm

Thank you Lesley! *loved Hilda and Nell*

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 10:28 pm

Lesley wrote:

Vikki wrote:

Thank you Lesley!!!!
And I haven't actually deleted the first portion of the thread yet........ Wink

Good grief! I'll have no posts left! Laughing

Well, there's one way to remedy that hunny! Just post lots more of this.....
(oh, and it's not just me archiving! I believe Pim has been at work over in books and characters! Wink

)

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 10:43 pm

Thank you Lesley!

And Vikki I had noticed the archiving...

#71: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 11:24 pm

Thanks Lesley

Thanks to all the archivers for keeping the board nice and tidy, even though it does mean I'm being removed to Inter V for the second time - which can only mean I'm being demoted!

Liz

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

Posted: Thu Nov 25, 2004 11:27 pm

Thank you Lesley Very Happy

#73: Author: Nicci, Location: UK

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 12:10 am

Thanks for some really lovely posts Lesley.

#74: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 12:28 am

*hopes no one collapses under all this*

but happy to hear about Geoff!

#75: Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 2:43 am

Lesley wrote:

I see we've been archived! Rolling Eyes

This keeps up and I'm going to go into minus posts! Wink

Miss Annersley nodded and shrugged her shoulders somewhat, trying to ease the stiffness within them, “At different times during the day I have had representatives from the Police, the Army, the Building Contractor and the State of Victoria Health and Safety Department. None of them seeming prepared to listen to each other and all blaming different sections for the accident at the weekend.”

Ahh...the ways of govenment are mysterious and hard to get an answer from...

Having lost over 50 posts and been demoted from first lessons to finding I have to be trilingual I shall go home to practice my German by watching Inspector Rex!

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

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 2:46 am

I lost one of my stars Sad

Thank you Lesley - lots of updates to catch up on! So glad everyone's okay *happy bounce* Also thank you to the archivists for keeping the board pretty and tidy Very Happy

#77: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 7:38 am

I had a heartstopping moment when I saw only 4 pages for this Shocked

Well done the Archivists. It is a lot easier to get around the board when it's tidy and I'd certainly hate to tempt a certain monster who shall not be named.

Thank you Lesley. Don't let Hilda overwork!

#78: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 10:19 am

Thanks Lesley Very Happy

#79: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 10:34 am

Lovely, Lesley!!

Hope you write plenty for me over the weekend!! Very Happy

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

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 12:51 pm

Thanks Lesley, good to hear the Ros and Geoff are going to be ok, now can we start planning the wedding?

#81: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 4:41 pm

Lesley, no more cliffs over the wedding, please.

#82: Author: Robin, Location: London, England

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 4:45 pm

jennie, what are you doing?
Don't put ideas into her head!

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

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 6:55 pm

The following morning started very early for the Head, with her foregoing her usual run to enter her Study and attempt to catch up on her work. Miss Wilson saw that, short of physically barring her way, she was not going to change Miss Annersley’s mind. She therefore sighed, quickly got washed and changed and hurried across to join her friend. Working together the two of them managed to break the back of the outstanding work and, by the time the breakfast bell sounded, they were both sitting back in the Study drinking coffee.

Thanks to the early start and Miss Wilson’s help, Miss Annersley was able to resume her normal routine, secure in the fact that none of her, somewhat unwelcome, guests of the previous day would be returning until Wednesday.

The bell for the final period before lunch sounded as Miss Annersley reached the Admin Block. Intent on reaching her Study, the Head failed to notice, at first, that Gill Culver was trying to attract her attention. Eventually, after Gill had called her name three times, Miss Annersley responded.

“I’m sorry Gill, I was in a daze. What did you say?”

“I said that you had a visitor, Hilda,” Gill Culver smiled, “She’s been here a while, arrived just after the last lesson started,”

The Head looked surprised, “If it was that important, Gill, you could have contacted me,” she said quickly, “I could easily have given the Sixth some work.”

Gill shook her head, “She said she was happy to wait, I said it would be a long wait but she said it didn’t matter.”

Hilda Annersley nodded, “Well as she has been so patient, I’ll see her now.” She walked into her Study and sat at her desk. A few moments later there was a discreet knock on the door and Gill Culver came in.

“Miss Annersley? This is Miss Shaw; she has requested an interview. Miss Shaw, this is Miss Annersley our Headmistress.”

“Miss Shaw? This is a surprise, please, come in, sit down.” The Head rose to shake hands with the Senior Officer from the State Prison. She waved her to a seat and resumed her own chair. Miss Annersley smiled across at her guest.

Miss Shaw smiled back, “I hope you don’t mind my coming to see you, Miss Annersley,” she said quickly, “I hoped that you would not object.”

“Why would I object, Miss Shaw?” Miss Annersley asked softly, a little puzzled.

“Well, some people, understandably, do not want anyone finding out that they know a prison officer, or that they have been in prison.”

Miss Annersley raised an eyebrow, “Well my Staff were all informed of the reason for my week-long absence, Miss Shaw. I have nothing to hide. Now, what can I do for you?”

In answer Miss Shaw pulled out a sheet of paper and pushed it across the desk, Miss Annersley picked it up and quickly read through it. She frowned,

“This is a visitors pass for me, in the name of Cherry Elliott, Miss Shaw,” she began, “I don’t understand, Cherry’s visits are all kept for her son. If I use this it will mean Cherry doesn’t see Robbie.”

The prison officer nodded, “I know, but I would very much like you to use that pass and see Elliott.”

The Head sat back in her chair and stared across at the woman in front of her, after a short time she spoke once more, “Explain please,”

Miss Shaw sighed slightly, “Elliott is currently on the second of three days in solitary.” She said abruptly.

#84: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 7:02 pm

Oh dear! I'll bet this has to do with the care her son is getting.

Checks tramplines and drabble harnesses to be on the safe side!

thanks Lesley! Poor Hilda has only just caught up with her paperwork Shocked

#85: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 7:17 pm

Oh, no! I hope this doesn't postpone her release date.

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

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 7:36 pm

Oh no!!!!
Wibble!

Poor Cherry! Hope Hilda can help work things out for her!

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

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 7:55 pm

Hilda Annersley looked shocked, “Solitary? But that’s for serious misbehaviour! What’s happened?”

“Disobedience, insolence and assault of a prison officer,” Miss Shaw replied, “She punched Val Francis in the stomach.”

“Mrs Francis was not seriously hurt?” Miss Annersley felt some concern; she had good memories of that officer.

Miss Shaw shook her head, “No, Elliott’s not normally physical, but the attempt was enough for her to have to see the Governor. Had she not had a previously spotless record, she would have lost remission. However, I knew that something had gone seriously wrong, so I instigated a cell search. Found this.” She pulled an envelope from her pocket and passed it across.

The Head opened the envelope and looked at the official letter inside, it was addressed to Cherry.

“Read it!” Miss Shaw said quickly.

‘To Miss Cherry Elliott

Re: Custody of minor Robbie Elliott. Age 3 years. DOB 03/09/01

Be advised that Mr and Mrs Jack and Marion Blake, currently standing as foster parents to Robbie Elliott, intend to apply to the courts for legal adoption of Robbie. They allege that you are unfit to care for him and he should not be allowed to return to your care. Citing that you are currently in prison, and, even before this custodial sentence, had a number of convictions for prostitution, living off of immoral earnings and soliciting. In addition Mr and Mrs Blake allege that you shamefully neglected your son and mistreated him. They have evidence that they will be quite happy to produce proving wilful neglect and cruelty…’

Hilda looked up, “That is a disgusting letter,” she said softly, “And the allegations are completely untrue.”

Miss Shaw nodded, “Yes,” she agreed, “And there is worse, Elliott contacted her lawyer, a State one of course, she has no money of her own. He visited the following day, just after his visit is when Cherry punched Val Francis. I managed to speak to the fellow, he said that he’d had to inform Cherry that she could expect no help from him.”

Miss Annersley looked across at the other woman thoughtfully, “So you decided to see if I would help?” she asked softly, “Forgive me, Miss Shaw, but doesn’t your profession preclude you from becoming involved in situations like this?”

“It does, Miss Annersley,” Miss Shaw agreed, “But that girl is not going to lose her son and her chance at a good life, if I can help it! I can’t do anything for her myself, but you can.”

The Head smiled, “I see, well then, in that case I will be along to see Cherry in two days time.”

As she said this a bell rang, signalling the end of morning lessons, “Would you care to stay for lunch, Miss Shaw?”

The other woman thought for a moment, “Yes, thank you,” she smiled.

Last edited by Lesley on Sun Dec 19, 2004 8:05 pm; edited 1 time in total

#88: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 7:58 pm

oh no!!!!! poor poor Cherry. Hilda will help *confident*

#89: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 8:25 pm

Oh nooooooooooooooo! Poor Cherry! *wibbles*

Please let everything work out okay Lesley, please, please, please. *still pleading*

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

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 9:08 pm

Aaargh!!!
Poor Cherry!!!
Jack and Marion Blake need a visit from the CBB lynch mob!

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

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 9:24 pm

Why wouldn't her own lawyer help?

Still loving this...what next!

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

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 9:45 pm

eeek ... what a horrible letter. Poor Cherry. I really hope Hilda can help sort the Blakes out - what an awful thing to do

#93: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 10:56 pm

People making nasty allegations like that shouldn't be allowed to foster a child, let alone adopt one!

Liz

P.S. Thanks Lesley

#94: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Fri Nov 26, 2004 11:09 pm

Wonder how long we'll have to wait this time...

#95: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 4:54 am

That's awful. Three cheers for Miss Shaw! I'm sure Hilda not only can but will help.

Thank you Lesley

#96: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 12:24 pm

Thanks Lesley.

Go Hilda!

#97: Author: Nicci, Location: UK

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 4:24 pm

Yey. Thanks Lesley. I was getting really worried about the Cherry thing. still am for that matter, but at least Hilda's getting involved now, I know she'll do everything in her power to help Cherry.

btw, was Hilda really only in prison for a week?? It seemed like eternity at the time!

#98: Author: Kim, Location: Tipperary, Ireland

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 6:17 pm

Hi Lesley

Just back from a funeral so was delighted to catch up on the Ros/Geoff situation and was getting too complacent and fell over latest cliff.

I reckon Cherry's lawyer isn't interested because she only has free legal aid (or equivalent in Oz) and thus little money for him.

Does this mean we get to meet that social worker from Surfeit??? She should be able to help

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

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 8:36 pm

*eebling*

but you WILL make it be okay, won't you Shocked

#100: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 9:49 pm

You are going to post some more soon aren't you?

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

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:23 pm

That afternoon Miss Derwent took Kelly across to the Real Hospital; she stopped off first in the ITU to visit Geoff Stevens. After satisfying herself that he was recovering, she left Kelly with her father and walked across the Orthopaedic ward. She stopped at the Nurse’s Station for a few words with the Sister-in-Charge before moving into the ward. Entering Rosalind Moore’s room she looked swiftly over at her friend. Rosalind was lying on top of her bed, she was dressed in shorts and a tee-shirt. Her right leg was up on a rest on top of the bed, it had a few small pieces of gauze on it but was largely open to the elements. It was possible to see the long suture line and the stitches. It looked very swollen and bruised.

Catching sight of her, Rosalind Moore smiled across at her friend, “Ruth! How lovely to see you!”

Ruth walked across and bent to kiss Ros on the cheek. “How are you, Ros?” she asked, “You’re looking fairly fit.”

Rosalind sighed, “Still pretty tired,” she admitted, “They say that’s the anaesthetic, it’ll take about a week for that to get out of my system.”

“What about the leg?”

“Well it’s still painful,” she said quickly, “Though nothing like it was Saturday night and Sunday morning.” Her eyes darkened slightly in remembrance, “They give me painkillers regularly and say it will ease.”

Ruth sat beside the bed, “Are you going to have to be here a long time?”

Ros shook her head, “No, they don’t think so, I’ll be starting physio tomorrow, once they’re sure I can manage with crutches I should be allowed out. I told them that the Staff Block had a lift and they seemed to think that was OK. Hilda has already said that there’s no problem with me moving back to the School, even if I cannot return to teaching just yet.”

“And all the pins and things just stay in?” Ruth sounded somewhat bemused.

“Yes,” Rosalind reached across to her locker and pulled out a flat folder, she passed it across to her friend, “Here, copy of the X-rays showing the leg before and after the op,”

Ruth took out the films, looking at the first she winced slightly, even to her inexperienced eye she could see that the bones of the lower leg, just above the ankle joint, had been badly broken. She then looked at the picture of Rosalind’s leg after the op, “I count seven pins as well as this plate thing,” she remarked, “You’ll set off every airport scanner!”

“That’s the reason I’ve got the films,” Ros replied, “So I’ve something to show the security people!”

Ruth Derwent replaced the films in the file and returned the file to the locker, as she did there was a quiet knock and one of the nurses came in with a wheelchair.

“Sister said you wanted this, Miss Derwent?”

“Oh yes, thank you Nurse,” Ruth walked over and took the wheelchair from the nurse and wheeled it over next to Ros’s bed. “Now Ros, I checked with the Sister, she said this wheelchair, with the rest for your leg, will be suitable.”

“Suitable for what?”

“For you to sit in, while I wheel you over to ITU,” Ruth smiled, “That is if you want a quick visit with Geoff?”

Rosalind’s eyes filled with tears and she impatiently brushed them away, “You can’t know how much I’ve wanted to see him,“ she said softly, “thanks Ruth!“ Then, steeling herself, she managed to manoeuvre herself to the edge of the bed and then gently slide across. Once properly sat in the chair she allowed Ruth to gently lift her leg over to rest on the raised support. A few minutes while Ruth also retrieved a pillow to place beneath the leg. Once that was complete Rosalind smiled at her friend.

“Lead on Macduff!” The misquote from Rosalind was accompanied by a knowing glance.

Ruth turned to glare at her friend, “It’s ‘Lay on, Macduff’ not lead!”

“Yes I know,” Ros grinned.

Last edited by Lesley on Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:41 pm; edited 1 time in total

#102: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:30 pm

Lol! Lovely Lesley.

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

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:55 pm

Love that! Poor Ros, hope she gets better soon Sad

#104: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 11:15 pm

Thanks Lesley Very Happy

Liz

#105: Author: Nicci, Location: UK

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 11:16 pm

oh lovely Ruth. I've never been quite sure about Ruth but she's really coming through here.

Thanks Lesley.

#106: Author: catherine, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne

Posted: Sat Nov 27, 2004 11:30 pm

Thanks Lesley!

It's so lovely to see the way the staff are all so supportive of each other and mindful of each other's needs. It's lovely to see more of Ruth and Rosalind's friendship too.

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

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 2:03 am

Thanks Lesley - glad to see that everyone is on the mend

#108: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 5:21 am

Thanks, Lesley!
I'm also glad to see the invalids improving -- especially Rosalind being well enough to wind Ruth up. Smile

(Worried about Cherry though)

#109: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 9:11 am

I love the way you've brought Ruth into the thick of things!

Lovely to see them getting better.

Please let Cherry be sorted again now.

*Joins Kathy in the wibbling corner*

#110: Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 10:32 am

Thanks Lesley just caught up on 4 days worth, not that I missed any cliffs Rolling Eyes

Hope to hear some more on the Cherry situation soon, had an awful feeling something like this was going to happen Crying or Very sad

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

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 4:16 pm

The visit to see Geoff Stevens was a success; Ruth Derwent congratulated herself for arranging it, seeing Rosalind’s face light up was reward enough. She, herself quietly left the room after seeing Rosalind was settled, she stood looking out of one of the windows in the nearby corridor. After a short time she was joined by Kelly.

The Senior Mistress smiled at the girl, “How is your father, Kelly?”

Kelly’s face lit up, “He’s fine, Miss Derwent, better than fine, the doctors say he can go to an ordinary ward tomorrow. They don’t think he’s got any damage or anything.”

“Has his memory been affected?”

“Don’t think so,” Kelly replied, she frowned slightly, “Though the doctor said something about short term memory not being tested yet.” She paused then continued, “It was good that Ro…I mean Miss Moore could see him. I know she’s been worried.”

Ruth overlooked Kelly’s slip, she smiled, “Yes, I’d noticed that too!” She looked across at Kelly, the girl was rather thin, probably due to her own serious injuries earlier in the year. The same blue eyes as her father with short curly blond hair. “How do you feel about your father and Miss Moore being friends?” She asked diffidently.

Kelly smiled, “I love it, Miss Derwent, Miss Moore is good for Dad, he always works too hard, thinks of his silly army all the time. Miss Moore makes him think of other things.” She stopped for a moment, thinking, “Miss Derwent? Dad asked me something, could you help me?”

“Of course Kelly,” Ruth replied promptly. “what is it?”

…

That evening, back in their cottage, Miss Annersley spoke with Miss Wilson about her visitor that day.

“What do you plan to do, Hilda?” Miss Wilson asked, this was after fully thirty seconds of cursing the Blakes.

“Well, first thing is to speak to Cherry,” Miss Annersley replied, “Find out from her any more details, and try to work out what I can do.”

“Hmmm, you do plan to help her fight this, Hilda?”

Miss Annersley looked round, “Definitely, Nell, quite apart from the fact that I consider her a friend and owe her for helping me in prison, I cannot sit back and allow this injustice to proceed.” She looked more closely at her friend, “You don’t object, do you Nell?”

Miss Wilson dismissed the concern with a wave, “Don’t be ridiculous! No, I was thinking, it might be as well to start planning how to fight this, if it goes to the courts we’ll need someone on our side.”

“We?”

Nell Wilson looked over impatiently, “Of course, ‘we’, Hilda,” and her voice was rather sharp, “That child was there for you when I could not be, you’re not the only one that owes her. And from what you’ve told me she’s had enough injustice to deal with.”

Hilda Annersley smiled, “Thank you Nell,” she said softly, she paused for a time then, “I had given it some thought, about having someone on our side, I mean.”

“Well? Who is it?”

“I thought about Sue Williams?”

Last edited by Lesley on Sun Nov 28, 2004 10:50 pm; edited 1 time in total

#112: Author: Lisa_T *sigh*,

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 5:29 pm

*cackles at thought of vengeance heading evil Blakes away just about......* NOW!

Very Happy

#113: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 6:06 pm

Thanks Lesley

Hmmm, not tested Geoff's short-term memory.... Does that mean he's forgotten he's proposed?

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

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 6:36 pm

Thank you Lesley!!!
Ruth is such a sweetie getting Ros over to see Geoff!!!

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

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 9:01 pm

The following day was routine within the School; Miss Annersley took the opportunity, early in the morning, to contact the Child Social Worker, Mrs Williams, and arrange to see her on the Friday. It was probably a good thing that she made the call first thing, as, once again, the day was filled with visits from all the myriad different departments responsible for investigating the accident at the weekend.

Miss Annersley had, with some difficulty, finally managed to get everyone to agree that the incident itself appeared to be a complete accident. After all, there had been a sturdy fence around the building site and it was only when Colonel Stevens and Miss Moore had breached that fence that the sides of the pit had collapsed. The Health and Safety Department were reluctant to leave it there; their concerns were that it could have collapsed on workmen. However, at least everyone agreed that the discovery of the bomb took precedence.

After another long day the Head was marched off the site by Miss Wilson to the hospital to visit both Rosalind and Geoff Stevens. Although short visits to both, they were enough to cause Miss Annersley to have a complete change of view. When she and Miss Wilson returned to the School it was directly to their cottage; they were having some of the Prefects over for a chat about future courses.

Back at the Hospital, Miss Derwent had taken Kelly up to see her father. Geoff Stevens had been moved from Intensive Care to the Neurology Ward, and he had a room to himself. Although still very weak, Geoff was now sitting up and able to take notice. Although still being given drugs, it was thought that he could be weaned off of them over the next week or so. After seeing Kelly to her father, Ruth walked across to pick up her friend. Ruth was a little concerned about Rosalind, although she had been ecstatic about seeing Geoff, something about the visit had gone wrong, she was desperately worried about something, but refused to confide in Ruth. Wheeling her friend into the room, Ruth hoped that this visit would resolve whatever the problem was!

Rosalind sat with her chair pushed up next to the bed, “So when will you be able to get up and about?”

Geoff shook his head gingerly, he had a large adhesive dressing over the right side of his head cover the area where the initial cut had been and where the surgeons had operated. As a military man his hair was always very short, therefore the shaved area did not seem so out of place. He appeared to be brighter than the day before, although still with rather heavy eyes.

“I’m hoping to try walking tomorrow,” he said, “All being well I’ll be able to come over and see you.”

Ros smiled, “That’s good.” She paused for a moment then took a deep breath, “Geoff, Kelly told me that they had not yet tested your short term memory?”

“They did today,” Geoff smiled, “I passed with flying colours apparently!”

“Oh,” it was almost a cry from Rosalind, and she bent her head somewhat in an effort to hide the relief on her face.

Geoff looked at her, puzzled, for a moment, then comprehension dawned, he reached out an arm to hold Rosalind’s hand, “Ros, “ he said very quietly, “I know I’ve not said anything, but I remember everything we said to each other that night.”

There was no need for him to specify which night, Rosalind Moore knew, she moved her wheelchair closer, squeezing his hand, “You do, Geoff? I thought perhaps that the surgery had stopped you remembering, I didn’t like to say anything, in case you didn’t…”

“In case I didn’t mean it? Silly woman,” Geoff replied gruffly, “I meant every word, and I hope you did too!”

Ros nodded, her eyes alight with tears.

“Well then, I spoke to Kelly yesterday, she was able to get something for me,”

Ros looked across at Kelly, she smiled rather shyly and took a small box from her jeans pocket, “Miss Derwent helped me chose this,” she said quietly, “Dad didn’t give me much of an idea about what he wanted, said I’d know. Miss Derwent also borrowed some of your jewellery to get the right size.” She passed the box across.

Rosalind opened the box, inside was an Engagement ring. It was a simple gold band with, not a solitary diamond, but three in a cluster.

“We couldn’t find a solitaire diamond, not one that looked right,” Kelly continued, “Then Miss Derwent said what about this, ‘cos it could mean the three of us becoming a family. When I showed Dad he thought it was beautiful.”

Rosalind removed the ring from the box and slipped it on her finger, “It is beautiful,” she said, “and it’s perfect.” She looked across at Ruth Derwent, “thank you Ruth.”

Geoff still looked a little worried, “If you’d prefer to wait until I’m better, we can look for another. I can send this back.”

“Not without removing my finger with it!” Ros said firmly, leaning forward to kiss him, “It’s wonderful.” She then held out her arms to hug both Kelly and her best friend.

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

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 9:08 pm

What a *lovely* post to finish my catchup session with. (Yes, I'm EXTREMEMLY glad I've missed the cliffs of the last week!) That was really, really sweet - and thoroughly deserved.

Thank you, Lesley Smile

Ray *off to find a tissue*

#117: Author: catherine, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 9:09 pm

*sniffs*

That was so lovely, Lesley, thank you! Very Happy

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

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 10:00 pm

Awwww! *warm and fuzzy*

Thank you Lesley!

#119: Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 10:02 pm

Awwww Lesley that was lovely Ahhhhhh

Thank you

Liz

#120: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 10:17 pm

I came back to this with a nagging worry about Geoff's short term memory! So glad to see that this was an unecessary worry! ((((Ruth)))). that was inspired and how lovely for Kelly to go to buy the ring.

*Warm and fuzzy like Ann*

*Hopes Ray fetched more than one tissue*

#121: Author: Nicci, Location: UK

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 10:58 pm

was also quite worried about Geoffs STM.

big sigh of relief and a big thank you to Lesley for a very lovely post. Love the idea behind the ring.

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

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 11:12 pm

Thank you Lesley!!!
Also loving the ring!!!!!

#123: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Sun Nov 28, 2004 11:23 pm

*wells up* Lovely, thank you Lesley.

#124: Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 1:42 am

yet another reaching for the tissue box - that was just loverly Leslie - great that Kelly was involved as well, rather than just being a spectator to the engagement

#125: Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 1:50 am

Whats this? A whole post without a cliff or other disaster!

Lesley I hope you are feeling OK and can scare us all again soon.

#126: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 4:13 am

Miss Di wrote:

Whats this? A whole post without a cliff or other disaster!

Lesley I hope you are feeling OK and can scare us all again soon.

She's probably priming us for something really traumatic....

But, thank you, Lesley, for some lovely posts!

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

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 10:09 am

Lovely! Thank you Lesley.

Though I'm still concerned over the situation with Cherry and Robbie and the Blakes...

#128: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 10:15 am

Glad he remembers!

Thanks Lesley, that was really sweet.

#129: Author: Robin, Location: London, England

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 10:35 am

lovely, thanks Lesley

#130: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 11:19 am

Fabulous as always Lesley! Very Happy

#131: Author: Cumbrian Rachel, Location: near High Wycombe

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 2:31 pm

awwwww. That was lovely. Thank you Lesley.

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

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 2:37 pm

Thank you Lesley, I hope Ros, Geoff and Kelly will be happy! Very Happy

#133: Author: Alex, Location: Manchester

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 3:50 pm

Miss Di wrote:

Whats this? A whole post without a cliff or other disaster!

Nell wrote:

Though I'm still concerned over the situation with Cherry and Robbie and the Blakes...

Probably means it's the hostile takeover we need to worry about.

#134: Author: Rebecca, Location: Kendal/Oxford

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 7:13 pm

*Feeling all warm and fuzzy now*

Thanks, Lesley!

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

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 7:53 pm

Thursday saw Miss Annersley driving to the State Prison to visit Cherry; it was with some feelings of trepidation that she joined the other visitors. Many of them men, probably husbands or boyfriends, some with children in tow. Here and there were others of her own (apparent) age, they seemed to be mainly mothers of the inmates. During her short stay in the prison Miss Annersley had noted that the vast majority of inmates were young, in their twenties or earlier. Those older women tended to be career criminals, like Butcher, or women in for domestic violence crimes, as she thought this the Head smiled, if she remembered correctly, that was the crime for which Cherry had thought Hilda responsible.

When the Visitors’ Room finally opened, a number of efficient, neutral-faced officers quickly processed all the people. There was a disturbance when one man was refused admittance, apparently his girlfriend had said she didn’t want to see him, but it was swiftly dealt with and the man left. Then it was Miss Annersley’s turn; she handed across her visitor’s pass and driving license as a form of identification. She then allowed them to search her bag and submitted to a swift and professional pat down. She suppressed a smile while this was happening as it occurred to her that Nell Wilson would have had to allow the same.

After being given clearance she was directed to the main visiting room, she walked through and looked around. At first she couldn’t see Cherry, a closer inspection and she caught sight of the girl, hunched up in one corner, her face dark and unfriendly. She walked across to stand in front of her, “Cherry?” Miss Annersley’s voice spoke softly.

Cherry Elliott looked up, when she saw who was in front of her, her face betrayed shock, “Hilda? Is that you?”

Miss Annersley smiled, “It is Cherry,”

Cherry sprang up and ran forward to throw her arms around the older woman, Hilda hugged her. Cherry spoke, “They didn’t say who was coming, I thought it was some lawyer, didn’t want to come but Miss Shaw insisted. Oh Hilda.” On the last word Cherry’s voice broke and she dissolved into tears.

Hilda stood, her arms around the girl, stoking her hair and murmuring comforting words, she saw that the prison officers had withdrawn somewhat and silently thanked them for their tact. After some time she raised Cherry’s head and looked directly into the green eyes, “Why didn’t you let me know?” she asked softly.

Cherry rested her head back on Hilda’s shoulder, “I-I didn’t think,” she said hesitantly, “I mean, it didn’t occur to me that you’d come.”

Hilda gently guided Cherry back to the chairs, they sat opposite each other. Hilda reached across the table to hold Cherry’s hands in her own. “Of course I would come,” she replied, “Cherry, whatever has happened to you in the past, know this, you are my friend and I care greatly about anything that happens to you. Don’t ever forget that.”

Cherry wiped her eyes before reaching forward to hold Hilda’s hands again, “I’m sorry,” she said quietly, “It’s just, I find it difficult to believe it when people are nice to me.”

“Well believe it,” Hilda said firmly, then, more gently, she continued, “Now, tell me everything that’s happened.”

#136: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 7:57 pm

*hastily grabs the tissues*

Poor Cherry. She can't believe in good things Crying or Very sad

*Feels more cheerful now Hilda and Nell are on the case"

#137: Author: karry, Location: Stoke on Trent

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 8:00 pm

This is a lovely thing to come back to after 4 days babysitting. Thank you for Geoff and Ros, "slightly" concerned about Cherry!

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

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 8:06 pm

Of course it could be the Blakes that are behind the hostile takeover of the RCS, and they're exploiting known links between Hilda and Cherry in order to raise hell.

And can't we persuade Eminem and Bill Gates to buy up RCS stock so that there can't be a hostile takeover?

Brilliant as ever, Lesley, although the ratio of warmfuzzies to cliffs is rather worrying....

#139: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 8:13 pm

Oh goodness, poor Cherry Sad

#140: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 8:33 pm

Poor Cherry, glad that Hilda and the real CS is there for her.

Slightly miffed that this storyline was continued so quickly before I had tyhe chance to gloat though!

Also pleased that Ruth and Geoff are recovering, and that he hadn't forgotten about the proposal.

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

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 8:57 pm

Cherry swallowed, “You’ve read that letter?”

Hilda nodded, “Miss Shaw showed me, I’ll just say that I consider the allegations to be totally untrue, Cherry, I was able to see at first hand how much you loved and cared for your son.”

Cherry smiled slightly, “Thank you,” she said softly. There was a short silence then she continued, “I didn’t know what to do, I couldn’t believe it. I mean, it came out of the blue. They’ve always been great before, the Blakes I mean,”

“There had been no indication previously?”

“Nothing,” Cherry said adamantly, “You were there, when I saw Robbie just after his birthday, they couldn’t have been nicer. I had no idea that they felt like this.” She took a breath before continuing, “Anyway, the letter came on Saturday, and the only thing I could think of was to speak to my lawyer, you know, the brief I had when I was convicted? He appeared Monday morning.” She stopped here and her eyes filled with tears.

“What did he say?” There was silence for some time, then Hilda spoke again, “Tell me, Cherry, I need to know everything if I’m to help you.”

It was some seconds before Cherry replied, when she did Hilda was alarmed at the amount of anger in her voice, “He said that, as far as he was concerned, Robbie was in the best place. That I should never have been allowed to keep him in the first place. That Robbie himself would be thankful that he’d managed to escape from having a whore for a mother!”

“He said those exact words?” Hilda’s voice remained calm only through extreme effort on her part, but anyone from the School would have recognised that she was angry.

Cherry nodded, “Pretty much,” she said, “I may have left out a ‘bloody whore’ or so. Anyway, he then finished by saying that he was recommending that I be removed from the Legal Aid books, and I wouldn’t be able to contest the case.”

“I see, what did you do?”

“I couldn’t believe it, I started shouting at him, begging him to help me. When he went to leave I tried to stop him, Mrs Francis held me back and I…” She stopped and flushed, looking over at Hilda to see if she knew.

“You punched her,” Hilda said flatly.

Cherry nodded, saying nothing.

“I did wonder exactly what had caused you to act in such a fashion,” Hilda said in a neutral voice, “after all, when I shared a cell with you, I found you to be a very gentle person.”

Cherry spoke once more, but with her eyes staring down at the floor, “I’ve just been in solitary for three days,” she whispered.

“Yes, I heard.” Hilda replied, “Did you enjoy your time there?”

“No, I hated it, I felt so helpless.”

“Yes.” There was another silence, then Hilda reached across to raise Cherry’s chin once more, “Now listen to me Cherry Elliott, I am prepared to do everything possible to ensure that Robbie is allowed to rejoin you on your release. But you must promise me something.”

“What is it?”

“Promise me that you will not get into any more trouble, Cherry,” Hilda smiled slightly as she said the words, “I want you to give the impression to any Judge or Social Worker that you are trustworthy and suitable to look after your son. You will not give that impression if you behave badly and keep being sentenced to solitary. And you will most certainly not give that impression if your release date is postponed because you have lost remission.”

Cherry swallowed, “I promise, Hilda. But do you really think that you can help?”

“Definitely,” Hilda returned.

#142: Author: Kim, Location: Tipperary, Ireland

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 9:13 pm

aw isn't Hilda just great

looking forward to hearing what the social worker will have to say and how that so-and-so lawyer gets his comeuppance

#143: Author: Nicci, Location: UK

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 9:18 pm

Yey. Hurrah for Hilda. I'm glad Cherry's come back into the story so much Lesley - I really like reading about her.

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

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 10:29 pm

Loving this Lesley, and secure in the knowledge that no matter what, Hilda will be able to sort it out. Cool

#145: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 10:36 pm

*aw*
*sniffing*
That was lovely Lesley and I'm filling up which doesn't happen very often! Very Happy

#146: Author: Ella, Location: Staffordshire

Posted: Mon Nov 29, 2004 10:40 pm

Gah!

Computer decided to go bang in a virtual way a fortnight ago... then I got it resurrected and had minor panics that there were only 8 pages of this.... then I worked out that it had been archived ..... and I've spent the evening catching up!

Superb as ever Lesley!
Some lovely warm and fuzzy bits and some unexpected cliffs!
Hope Hilda manages to help Cherry.

Thanks Very Happy

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

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 9:50 am

Thank you Lesley.

Am so glad that Hilda is there for Cherry, not at all surprised Cherry got so upset and I look forward to seeign them get the better of the Blakes and that lawyer!

#148: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 10:00 am

*sniffles*

*has deep suspicions about the Blakes and the lawyers*

Thank you Lesley Very Happy

#149: Author: Robin, Location: London, England

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 10:04 am

nasty lawyer man
can't help thinking he might have ulterior motives though have no idea what these might be!

#150: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 10:32 am

Good for Hilda.

Trying to figure out where this is going withthe lawyer....and failing miserably of course! Guess I'll have to wait for you to tell us! Laughing

Cheers Lesley!

#151: Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 11:16 am

Lovely to have Cherry back - although I think she's behaved in a very restrained fashion considering what's happened

#152: Author: Sophoife, Location: down under Down Under

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 12:57 pm

Hope Hilda gets the lawyer dismissed from Legal Aid. Shouldn't be in that job if he feels like that about his clients!

(((Cherry)))

Yay Hilda!

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

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 3:32 pm

*sending very evil vibes to that rotten lawyer!!!*
Glad Cherry has Hilda to help her!!!

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

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 4:31 pm

“I can’t thank you enough, Hilda,” she began, “and I can never repay you…”

“The only thing I want as repayment,” Hilda interrupted, “is for you and Robbie to settle in to life at the Real Chalet School.” She looked around her and laughed, “And for you to never enter one of these places as an inmate again! Now, there are a few things that you can do to help, we‘ll need some information.”

“What info do you need?”

Hilda thought for a moment, “The details of the social workers that have dealt with both yourself and Robbie in the past. Also, if you have any details from these people about the fact that Robbie would be returned to you, on your release.”

“I have a letter from them that says pretty much exactly that,” Cherry replied, “I’ve also got a more recent letter, they were very happy about the offer you had made Hilda, seemed to think that it would be suitable.”

“Good, well that would seem to show that, as far as the Authorities were concerned, there was never a problem with you being reunited with Robbie.”

At that moment one of the prison officers announced that visiting time was over, Hilda stood up, “I’ll be seeing a Child Social Worker this afternoon and also be speaking to the company lawyer about a good solicitor for you, he or she will be visiting soon as we will definitely be contesting the case. You will be reunited with your son.”

Cherry also rose and stepped forward to hug the older woman once more, “Thanks Hilda.”

With a final wave, Hilda Annersley smiled and walked out of the prison.

…

After lunch the Head sat discussing the visit with Miss Wilson,

“And she had no inkling that the Blakes were planning to do this, Hilda?

Miss Annersley shook her head, “None, Nell, as far as she was concerned they had been the perfect foster parents. She was at a loss to understand the sudden change.”

“Hmmm, I don’t know that I’m at a loss though,” Miss Wilson said slowly, “if this change of heart has come on only recently, there may be a very good reason.”

Miss Annersley looked across at her partner, “What reason?” she asked.

“You!” the abrupt reply was rather a shock and seeing the surprise on her friend’s face, Miss Wilson continued, “Remember when you visited a couple of weeks ago? You said there was something wrong, as though the Blakes disapproved of you?”

“Yes, I remember,” Miss Annersley replied, “but I don’t see how that helps.”

“Well suppose the Blakes intended to try adopting Robbie from the start? They may have felt that Cherry would never have fulfilled the conditions and never have been allowed to take him back.”

Hilda Annersley thought for a moment, “Then, suddenly, here’s a totally genuine bona fide offer, from someone in a position of some authority, namely me!”

“Yes,” the Deputy Head nodded, “and the last straw was when they saw you that time, could see you were the genuine article. No wonder they appeared disapproving when you went. They could see their scheme was disappearing.”

“So decided instead to attack whilst Cherry was still in prison? I think you’re right Nell!” Miss Annersley’s voice was cold, “They must have been relying on the fact that she had no funds of her own.”

“You think they bribed the Legal Aid lawyer?”

“Perhaps, or just felt that he wouldn’t try too hard.”

Last edited by Lesley on Sun Dec 19, 2004 8:22 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 4:43 pm

Evil people!!!! hammer

At least she now has Hilda and Nell and therefore the might of the RCS with all its connections on her side!

Thank you Lesley!

#156: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 4:45 pm

*joins Nell in the poke

and

*

*has every faith in Hilda and Nell*

Thank you Lesley!!!!!!!!!!

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

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 5:03 pm

Lesley! Please let Hilda and Nell be able to help Cherry!!!!
Evil evil Blakes!!!

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

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 8:15 pm

Phew I'm glad Hilda is going to be able to help - I feel so sorry for Cherry. THe Blakes are horrible!

#159: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 8:36 pm

I have total faith in Hilda and Nell to bring this to a successful conclusion.

Eventually.

*bumpy rides ahead Shocked

#160: Author: Nicci, Location: UK

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 9:29 pm

This is so sad in a way. After all, the Blakes have been looking after Robbie for sometime and must be very attached to him. Whatever they are doing, they are probably doing because they honestly think its the best thing for Robbie. On the otherhand, he is Cherry's son, and she should rightfully have him, and she loves him very much and has now been given the opportunity to provide him with a wonderful life.
I can't see this mess being resolved without a lot of heartache and tears on both sides.

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

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 11:20 pm

Yikes, I catch up after about two weeks (I know, very bad of me) and I find there's been an unexploded bomb, a proposal, a problem with Cherry and still no more news on the hostile takeover (BTW, how's that fund for the shares coming along? Do we have enough yet for the CBB to become majority shareholders?)

Please Lesley, don't keep us in suspense.

JackieJ

#162: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Tue Nov 30, 2004 11:22 pm

I'm glad you said that Nicci. I was having similar thoughts and sympathising with the Blakes a little.... Confused

I still hope all goes well for Cherry and Robbie though!

#163: Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW

Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 1:37 am

Nicci wrote:

Do they think it is the best think - or are they evil agents of the hostile RCS takeover nasties?

Wanders off with visions of the evil matron in Streatfield's Thursday's Child

#164: Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham

Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 10:24 am

Oooohhhh cant wait to see what happens.

These sort of situations are never easy, but they shouldnt have fostered if they wern't able to hand the child back. Its one of the reasons that although we have looked into adoption, we would probably never foster as it would break my heart Crying or Very sad

to have to hand them back sometimes after years.....

#165: Author: Alex, Location: Manchester

Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 11:32 am

Obviously the Blakes have no idea what they're letting themselves in for.

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

Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 1:13 pm

Miss Di wrote:

Wanders off with visions of the evil matron in Streatfield's Thursday's Child

Ooooh, have you read the sequel Far to Go? She is evil though.

Sorry, yibble over, more please Lesley?

JackieJ

#167: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 7:29 pm

I'm sure Hilda and Nell will succeed - eventually!! Laughing

Thanks Lesley. Smile

Now. about that takeover...

#168: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 8:15 pm

Thanks Lesley, I'm actually feeling rather sorry for the Blakes; They have no idea what they are about to come up against!

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

Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 8:28 pm

“Rosalind, we need to make plans,” Geoff spoke quite seriously and Rosalind Moore looked across at him in surprise.

It was mid-afternoon and, after her physiotherapy session, Rosalind had been able to persuade the girl to drop her off at Geoff’s room. They had been chatting for the past thirty minutes, updating each other on their progress. Geoff Stevens had finally been allowed out of bed for a couple of hours, although still feeling very weak, his soldiers physique had already proved its worth. He was apparently progressing at twice the speed of the average patient. The consultant had told him that, all being well, he could look at being discharged in about two or three weeks.

Rosalind had good news too, she had started using crutches today and managed well. The Physio just wanted to see her manage for a full day getting about on crutches - if she coped well then she could return to the Real Chalet School by the weekend.

“What plans, Geoff?” Ros asked, “Do you mean our wedding?”

“Partly,” the soldier replied, “But something rather more urgent, not that our getting married’s not urgent!”

Ros smiled, “I know that, idiot,” she said quickly, “so what is it?”

“I spoke to the Neurosurgeon today, he came to give me the once over, check I was still breathing,” Geoff smiled, “he was telling me of the restrictions having this head injury will place on me.”

“Restrictions? What things?”

“He gave me a huge list, among them was driving, only for a short time, but it’s there, diving - so sorry we’ll not be able to teach Kelly together.” He paused for a moment before continuing, “And the one that really hit home, jumping out of a plane.”

There was silence for a time, Ros turned a puzzled face to her fiancé, “Er, Geoff, were you planning on jumping out of a plane?” She sounded as though she were questioning his sanity.

Geoff smiled, “Well of course,” he said quickly, “I’m in the Parachute Regiment, remember?”

Rosalind’s jaw dropped, “Oh, of course, I’d completely forgotten. Oh no, Geoff, this won’t mean you have to leave will it?”

Geoff looked across quizzically, “Would it really worry you if it did? I mean, if I left the Army I could move here permanently, get a job locally. We’d be together far more.”

Rosalind levered herself up from the chair and, using her crutches, manoeuvred herself next to Geoff’s chair. She bent down to kiss him, “Geoff, being a soldier is part of you, the same as being a teacher is part of me. I would never want to tie you down. Now, is this restriction permanent?”

Geoff shook his head slightly, “No, it’s expected to last about a year, I’ll have to be seen by one of the quacks in the RAMC so they can clear me for flying duties, or I should say, falling duties, but that’ll be a formality.”

“And for the year?”

“Well, I thought I’d look into getting a temporary posting Down Under!” Geoff grinned, “Remember that Mess do I went to a few weeks back? A General there asked if I’d thought of returning, said I could get a secondment to a base near Brisbane for a year.”

“Brisbane? That’s just up the coast!” Rosalind smiled.

“Well, it’s a good few hours up the coast even by plane,” Geoff returned, “But it’s a lot closer than England. We’d have the weekends free together. What do you think?”

Rosalind pretended to consider, “Oh I don’t know, was rather looking at an absent husband, you know, one I didn’t have to see often and… arwwk!”

The last word being an exclamation as Geoff reached over and dragged her onto his lap. Holding her down with one hand he gently moved some hair out of her eyes,

“Perhaps I can make it easier to decide,” he said gently, then leant forward and softly kissed her. Once the kiss was over Geoff pulled back slightly, "Well?” he said.

Ros swallowed, “Oh I don’t know, Geoff,” she said, a little breathlessly, “I’m still wavering you know, perhaps a little more persuasion?”

Geoff grinned and bent to kiss her once more, as he did there was the sound of the door being opened,

“Colonel Stevens! Miss Moore! May I ask what you think you are doing?” It was the Hospital Matron, at the words both man and woman jumped and the sudden movement caused Ros to experience pain from her leg, she yelped.

“Oh, for goodness sake!” Matron Henschell exclaimed, she rushed forward and helped lift Rosalind and supported her back into her chair. The pain had caused Ros to turn white and there was some sweat on her brow. After a minute or so she smiled,

“Pain’s gone now,” she said.

“Well you were lucky!” Barbara Henschell said sternly, “Honestly, you are both still unwell, this is hardly the place. Now you, Colonel,” she turned and glared at Geoff who visibly quailed before her gaze, “you have some excuse, but there’s none for you Rosalind.”

Rosalind Moore sat with her head bowed slightly, “Sorry Barbara,” she said quickly,

“Sorry who?”

“I mean, sorry Matron,” Ros returned quickly, “It won’t happen again!”

“I should hope not!” Barbara Henschell’s mouth twitched, “We need to get you fit enough to discharge, it’ll not happen if you manage to dislodge the pins in your leg! Now please be careful, both of you!” She turned to leave then Rosalind’s voice stopped her,

“You’ll still be getting an invite to the wedding, Barbara!”

Barbara turned, “I should hope so,” she said sternly, “If I don’t get an invite, you don’t leave this hospital!” At that she smiled, winked and left.

Last edited by Lesley on Mon Jan 03, 2005 1:14 am; edited 1 time in total

#170: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 8:42 pm

Thanks again Lesley.

*Wanders off grinning soppily*

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

Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 8:48 pm

*G* love Barbara.

#172: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 9:29 pm

Awwwwww

I love it! Thankyou Lesley.

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

Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 9:43 pm

Lovely Lesley, thank you!

#174: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 10:08 pm

Awww! I had wondered if he would have to leave the army. I'm glad for him that he doesn't.

Aren't they sweet.

thank you Lesley. Razz

#175: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 10:18 pm

Lesley this is brilliant. Haven't read the previous ones, so I'm not quite sure what's going on at all times. Am now off to the archives to read - could be there a long time!

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

Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 10:56 pm

Warm & fuzzied in the extreme after catching up with eight pages of this Smile

*wonders if there's any chance that Lesley might abandon cliffs and stick to writing romance, as she does it so well*

*regretfully decides not, and straps on abseiling gear for next cliff!*

#177: Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham

Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 11:20 pm

Thank you Lesley that was lovely

*sighs*

* If only everything else was going as well*

*excluding bombs and broken bones of course*

#178: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Thu Dec 02, 2004 12:51 am

*g* I love Barbara. Has she been taking lessons from Matey?

Ooops. Wrong drabble, wrong Matey.... Twisted Evil

#179: Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW

Posted: Thu Dec 02, 2004 3:09 am

Lesley wrote:

Ros turned a puzzled face to her fiancé, “Er, Geoff, where you planning on jumping out of a plane?” She sounded as though she were questioning his sanity.

Geoff smiled, “Well of course,” he said quickly, “I’m in the Parachute Regiment, remember?”

I'm with Ros on this one.

Why would anyone want to jump out of a perfectly good airplane?

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

Posted: Thu Dec 02, 2004 10:25 am

Lovely! Thanks Lesley!

And loved Matron Henshall! *g*

#181: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Dec 02, 2004 12:24 pm

Miss Di wrote:

Lesley wrote:

I'm with Ros on this one.

Why would anyone want to jump out of a perfectly good airplane?

That's exactly what my husband says! He was in the RAF as an aircraft electrician, for 27 years!!!

#182: Author: Robin, Location: London, England

Posted: Thu Dec 02, 2004 2:38 pm

Or off a perfectly good bridge?
Bungy jumping anyone?

(did it 5 years ago and NEVER again)

#183: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Dec 02, 2004 3:16 pm

You MUST be joking!!!

#184: Author: pim, Location: St Andrews (right next to the beach)

Posted: Thu Dec 02, 2004 5:20 pm

Awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww, *all warm and fuzzy* Thank you Lesley Very Happy

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

Posted: Thu Dec 02, 2004 7:44 pm

Thank you Lesley!!!
Lovely post!

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

Posted: Thu Dec 02, 2004 10:06 pm

That afternoon Miss Annersley saw Sue Williams, the local Child Social Worker. She had been involved in the incidents the previous term, initially in a confrontational way, however both Miss Annersley and Miss Wilson had come to value her quiet common sense and feeling of justice. Mrs Williams listened while Miss Annersley explained the case.

“I appreciate that you cannot comment on specifics, Mrs Williams,” the Head finished, “But we would like your advice, in particular on whether you consider this to be unusual.”

The Social Worker sat in silence for a time, then looking across at both Miss Annersley and Miss Wilson she smiled slightly, “Not knowing the details,” she began, “I can only give a very rough impression,”

“We appreciate that,” Miss Wilson said quickly.

“Well, the first thing that strikes me is how unusual both the intention itself and the timing are.”

“What do you mean?”

“Well, firstly, any couple, or individual, we do not discriminate against single foster parents, but anyone that goes into fostering children, does it in the knowledge that the child will be with them only temporarily. Now occasionally something will happen and the child will become eligible for adoption, but that is the exception rather than the rule. In this case, when the mother had only a short custodial sentence, it would have been known that the child was staying only temporarily. And the Social Services would have done everything possible to ensure that the boy was reunited with his mother.”

“So the Blakes would have known from the start that Robbie was going to be with them for only a short time?” Nell Wilson mused.

“Exactly!” Miss Williams’ face darkened slightly, “But far more worrying is this accusation of neglect. When did the boy first go to them?”

Miss Annersley considered, “Cherry told me that she was convicted and sentenced on the eleventh of June, she hadn’t served any time on remand. I believe the Social Services had been in contact with her just prior to that, as it seemed likely that a custodial sentence was going to be passed.”

“So, with full remission on a nine month sentence she’ll be out in six?”

“Yes, her date for release, all being well, is December 11th.” Miss Annersley confirmed.

“Then I would be seriously concerned that first, if her son was neglected, it wasn’t picked up by the Social Worker, and second, that the Blakes have taken until now, five months after starting to foster him, to allege neglect.”

“You think there’s something in our theory that the Blakes intended to adopt Robbie from the start? That its because Cherry has a firm offer of employment and lodging that has caused them to take this action?” Miss Annersley asked quickly.

“I can’t say for definite,” Sue Williams returned, “But I would certainly think it suspicious.” She paused for a moment, then, “Have you contacted a solicitor yet?”

Miss Annersley shook her head, “No, I’ve spoken to the company solicitor, Kate Mason, but as this is not a company matter she is unable to take it on herself. She said she would make some enquiries about a suitable person.”

“I can recommend someone, if you wish,” Mrs Williams said quickly, she opened her handbag and retrieved a card, “Ian French, he’s an independent, very good reputation. We’ve come across him both as an opponent and an ally. He’s probably the best there is,” she handed the card across, “Tell him I gave you the card. He’ll at least listen, if he thinks there’s a chance he’ll fight tooth and nail. If he doesn’t think you’ve got a chance he’ll tell you so.”

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

Posted: Thu Dec 02, 2004 10:14 pm

Well some sensible advice, but it still sounds ominous, and I do wonder if it is linked with the hostile take over, which seems to have gone very quiet. Neutral

#188: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Dec 02, 2004 10:35 pm

*Suspects Lesley's devious mind of more than meets the eye*

Thank you anyway Lesley Confused

*Waiting with outward patience and inward turmoil for the TRUE reasons to be unfolded*

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

Posted: Thu Dec 02, 2004 10:41 pm

Thank you Lesley!

(although, I have to admit to also being just a TAD suspicious.....)

#190: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Thu Dec 02, 2004 10:53 pm

Ahhhh more RCS. I need this soooo much tonight!

However, that doesn't stop me from joining the suspicious crowd watching Lesley's every move from the corner! Wink

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

Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2004 1:47 am

Thanks Lesley ...
I have a sneaky suspicion it won't be plain sailing.

#192: Author: Miss Di, Location: Newcastle, NSW

Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2004 4:42 am

At home on a flex I have to use the dreadful dial up and sticky keyboard just so I can keep up with whateve cliffs Lesley has come up with overnight. Sophoife can attest as to just how terrible my home computer is and exactly how keen I must be!

Not that I plan my like around my computer access or anything...

And I know Lesley is posting everyday- but I'd still like to see more!

#193: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2004 4:51 am

*hopes this Ian is as good as Sue thinks he is.*
(and on the right side)

Thank you, Lesley!

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

Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2004 10:00 am

Thank you Lesley...joining those feeling somewhat suspicious both of Lesley and the Blakes....hope Ian decides to take on the case!

#195: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2004 11:21 am

Great scenes - love that Geoff is barred from parachuting - v convenient!!

Hope that Ian French proves to be all that he's cracked up to be ...

Thanks, Lesley!! Very Happy

#196: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2004 12:36 pm

Thanks Lesley. Lovely scene between Geoff & Ros.

Can't help being a bit suspicious of Sue Williams - she seemed a littel too quick to hand over Ian French's card. Hmmm......

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

Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2004 2:30 pm

Thank you Lesley, I'm sure Cherry will have no problems with Hilda on her side but still grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr to the Blakes

#198: Author: Katarzyna, Location: Preston, Lancashire

Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2004 4:36 pm

Wow! have just caught up with all of this since the archive!

fantastic as usual - Thank you Lesley.

Looking forward to the next installment or five!

#199: Author: Robin, Location: London, England

Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2004 4:48 pm

thanks lesley

for some reason am not convinced by Sue either.
Lesley, how does it feel to have so many people who just don't trust you?!? Wink

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

Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2004 7:40 pm