The CBB :: View topic - Just an Ordinary Woman

Just an Ordinary Woman - Part Three

The CBB -> Cookies & Drabbles

#451: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 2:44 pm

Just cuaght up on the last few days posts. Thanks Lesley

#452: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 4:59 pm

Good for Hilda and Nell, both for taking the subject to heart and acting on it so quickly.

Cheers Lesley. Very Happy

#453: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 5:28 pm

Good for Miss Annersley! It’s true they already had an informal anti-bullying policy, but that doesn’t mean nothing ever happened. And given the culture of peer pressure against people regarded as violating the norms, things could have gone seriously awry.

Still intrigued by the Butler connection (of course Smile

). Not entirely unlikely – after all, as long ago as the 30s someone published a “thinly veiled” novel including a scandal here. Laughing

*looks suspiciously at the Janes* hmm, can see Bakers trying to get back at uppity CS … but that might feed the EBD stereotype too well….

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

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 5:46 pm

That evening, when Cherry arrived at the courtroom, it was noticeable she was extremely nervous, she was also very pessimistic of her chances,

“Let’s face it, the Blakes have looked after Robbie well, I’ve no complaints about that. They can provide him with a good life, they’re upright citizens. Just what the Judges and Social Workers are looking for.”

Hilda looked across at Cherry, “He belongs with his mother, Cherry, not with a couple that have tried, through deception, to steal another’s child.”

There was little chance to say anymore as the Judge appeared, he looked round at both parties then looked more closely over at the Blakes, “I said that Robbie Elliott was to be here, Mr Blake, where is he?”

“He will be here within the hour, Your Honour,” Blake replied, “My sister had difficulty getting a cab.”

The Judge stared at the man, unconvinced, for some seconds, “Very well, within one hour Mr Blake, or I'll know the reason why!” He took a deep breath and looked around the courtroom. “I see we have a number of people watching? I assume they are witnesses? Well this is not a criminal court, there is no need for anyone to leave the room. I hope to hear all evidence tonight, people, and be able to make my Judgement.” He turned to the Blakes, “Ms Vance, the accusation of neglect and mistreatment? I hope you can substantiate this accusation?”

Ms Vance stood up, “Yes Your Honour, I’d like to call my first witness, Dr Daniel Worth.”

A short man dressed in a dark suit, rose from his seat on the third row of chairs and made his way to the witness box.

“Please give your full name, profession and current employment.”

“My name is Daniel John Worth, I am a Consultant Paediatrician at the Royal Children’s Hospital Parkville.”

“Thank you Doctor Worth, could you please tell me about one of the patients seen by you on Saturday 19th June this year?”

The man removed a small notebook from his jacket pocket, he turned to the Judge, “I keep a record of all cases I see that cause me….disquiet,” he said softly, “I was on duty that afternoon only because my Registrar was unwell and it proved impossible to appoint a locum. A young boy, Robbie Elliott, was brought in by his foster parents, he appeared rather thin and the Blakes said he wasn’t eating, in addition he was very quiet, abnormally so, he was running a temperature, which I thought could be part of the reason, but I did a full examination anyway.”

“What did you discover?”

“That he had sustained a significant laceration to his left lower leg, leaving a 5cm long scar. I would estimate the injury had occurred about three or four months previously. He also showed signs of smaller scars, of a similar age, on his other leg and right arm.”

“And these concerned you, Doctor?”

“They did, because they resembled a case I had seen recently where a child was abused by his mother’s partner, he had used a steak knife to inflict the injuries…”

“He fell over in the playground!” Cherry was on her feet, shouting, “There were broken bottles there, he cut himself on the glass. There…”

“Miss Elliott!” The Judge’s voice overrode Cherry’s, “your lawyer will have the chance to question this witness, for now you must remain silent!”

Between them Hilda and Nell pulled the girl back down on her seat, she struggled for a few seconds before turning and collapsing in tears on Hilda’s shoulder.

Ms Vance continued her questions, “What did you do, Doctor Worth?”

“I informed the Social Services of my concerns, at the time they were very nebulous, and in any case, the child was with foster parents. I suggested that, prior to any thought of the child being returned to its real mother that investigation should be made.”

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

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 5:52 pm

Poor Cherry.

I think the doctor is telling the truth and being as catious as he can, but it is so hard to hear it all put like that.

*eek* *wibble*

*wish I was staying in tonight so I could watch for more*

#456: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 6:02 pm

uh oh. This sounds like this could eb very damning evidence against her

#457: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 6:07 pm

Another great cliff, Lesley.

Wibbles away.

#458: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 6:26 pm

Thanks Lesley. Where is Robbie? I smell a rat or a red herring (I've got cattarh so can't tell the difference Wink

)

*wibbling in unison with Jennie*

Last edited by patmac on Sat Dec 18, 2004 6:31 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 6:30 pm

Ian French rose, “Dr Worth, in your professional opinion, could the fact that a young child was pining for his mother be enough to cause him to refuse to eat and therefore lose weight?”

“Yes, it could,” the Doctor replied quickly, “It might also have been the reason he was quiet and running a temperature.”

“Thank you, And how long, normally, would it take a child of a little under three years old, to recover from that?”

“It can be variable, but I would hope to see some improvement after two or three weeks.”

“And did you?”

The Doctor nodded, “Yes, I asked the Blakes to bring Robbie Elliott back to see me two weeks later, the change in him was astounding. Although still a little thin he was obviously eating and had a good appetite. More importantly though, he wouldn‘t stop talking….or singing!”

“What day would that have been, Doctor?”

The man thought, “That would be a Friday, Friday the 2nd of July.”

Ian French turned to the Judge, “For your information, Sir, the first visit by Robbie to his mother was on Thursday 1st July.” He turned back to the doctor. “Thank you Doctor Worth,” Ian smiled at the man and waited until he had left the witness box. He turned back to the Judge, “In the very short time I had to prepare for this case, Your Honour, I did consult my client about things that she thought might be misconstrued. One of them was the accident to Robbie Elliott at the beginning of March this year. I managed to make a few enquiries, the accident to Robbie Elliott was witnessed by an entire playground of people, moreover, a passing police patrol vehicle stopped to give assistance and drove Cherry and her son to hospital. I can obtain the names of the police officers if necessary.”

“I don’t think that will be necessary, Mr French,” the Judge smiled, he took a deep breath and then looked up, Mr French, Ms Vance, approach please.” He waited while they did so, “Ms Vance, I find your allegations of neglect and mistreatment to have very little, if any, substance to them. Have you any further evidence that will reverse my thinking?”

The woman actually looked somewhat uncomfortable, “Your Honour I have called all my witnesses,” she swallowed, “It seems that my clients may have been a little over eager to accuse Miss Elliott…”

“I wouldn’t say that, Ms Vance,” the Judge replied dryly, “I would say they have lied to you and hoped that Miss Elliott would not be able to marshal any defences in time.”

Ms Vance did not reply.

“Go back to your clients now,” Judge Burne ordered. He looked around, “I understand that the Blakes have no further witnesses, have you anyone else you wish to call Miss Elliott?”

Cherry looked toward Ian, he smiled and said, “No Your Honour, I believe it has been shown that Cherry Elliott looked after her son to the best of her ability, that she has been and will continue to be, a good mother. I therefore hope that you will make that decision.”

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

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 6:34 pm

Aww. I hope so too!

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

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 6:41 pm

Oh dear, that was far too easy!!! I'm very wibblesome about the fact that Robbie has not turned up yet.

Thank you Lesley for some great posts Very Happy

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

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 6:53 pm

Yippee! Yay! What a nice and sensible judge Mexican Wave

*waiting confidently for Robbie to turn up (or be rescued if need be)*

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

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 7:23 pm

Oh that sounmds much more hopeful, glad I checked back before going out instead of vacuuming for the babysitter.

#464: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 7:49 pm

Carolyn P wrote

Quote:

glad I checked back before going out instead of vacuuming for the babysitter

If you give the kids a packet of crisps just as the babysitter gets there, & tell them to drop the crisps when you've gone, the babysitter will feel obligated to hoover as she'll think it's her fault. Smile

Thankyou sensible judge! I think they'd better ask Ian French if he can recommend a private investigator to track Blake's sister as I think she's absconded with Robbie

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

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 8:39 pm

Thank you shiny Lesley!!! Hope there's nothing sinister in the fact that Robbie hasn't arrived yet though!!

Please don't let them have abducted him!!!

(Oh, and Lyanne! that is really sneaky!!!!!!! Wink

)

#466: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 8:52 pm

[quote="Lyanne"]If you give the kids a packet of crisps just as the babysitter gets there, & tell them to drop the crisps when you've gone, the babysitter will feel obligated to hoover as she'll think it's her fault. Smile

Why did I meet you 20 odd years too late Confused

That's a brilliant idea Twisted Evil

*Still waiting for Robbie*

#467: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 8:53 pm

Thanks Lesley. I really hope that the they will rule in Cherry's favour. I hope you haven't got any nasty cliffs waiting for us.

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

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 10:47 pm

Why do I have an awful feeling something is going to go awry cos Robbie isn't there Confused

#469: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 10:48 pm

Quote:

glad I checked back before going out instead of vacuuming for the babysitter

I wonder if families ever used to hoover for me in my babysitting days?! Shocked

I know I would never have noticed whether they had or not Very Happy

Far better to watch the CBB instead Carolyn! Although I liked Lyanne's crisps idea too Smile

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

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 10:49 pm

The Judge sat back in his chair, “This has not been a simple case,” he said carefully, “There have been a number of factors to consider. When I was first informed of the case I made a few enquiries of my own, specifically to the Social Workers, the Police and the Prison Service. Now, after listening to the evidence presented and reading the reports from those agencies,” he stopped to take a deep breath. Then he looked across at both Cherry and the Blakes,

“I find there is no evidence that Miss Elliott neglected or mistreated her son, the injuries he sustained were the result of an accident, not abuse,” he looked sternly at the Blakes, “and I sincerely hope that it was merely misguidance not malicious intent on your part, that caused you to allude that Miss Elliott inflicted those injuries on her son..”

“Now, the next part, the application that Mr and Mrs Blake have made for custody of Robbie. I am aware that they have cared for him for the last six months, that he has been well treated and that he is loved.” He stopped there to observe Mr Blake surreptitiously wipe a tear from his eye. “However, I am unhappy at the methods Mr and Mrs Blake have used to try and keep the boy. You have been fostering children for a long time, if you were unhappy about the child’s health and well-being I would have expected you to have raised the concerns immediately, not wait until after it had become obvious that he would be returning to his mother. The fact that you did not suggests it was merely subterfuge, that you hoped that Miss Elliott would be unable to garner support to fight the case. I therefore reject your application for custody of Robbie Elliott.”

There was silence for a short time, across on the Blakes’ table Mrs Blake buried her head into her husband’s shoulder, she seemed to be crying. On Cherry’s table there were smiles all round, Ian French, seeing this, whispered sharply, “He’s not ruled on the third part yet, it’s not over.”

At the Bench the Judge suddenly frowned, “Before I make my final ruling, Mr Blake, where is the boy? I want no excuses now.”

Blake swallowed slightly, then gently pushing his wife away, he pulled out a mobile phone and switched it on. A short time later he was connected to someone and spoke quickly. He looked over at the Judge, “My sister was sitting with him in the park opposite, she’s bringing him in, Sir…we have to Marion,” this to his wife as she protested, “we can’t keep him if the law has ruled against us!”

“Very well Mr Blake, be aware that you and your wife were very close to contempt of court.”

“Yes Sir.”

There was silence, waiting, then suddenly the court room doors opened and a stout woman, with a marked resemblance to Mr Blake, entered. In her arms she was carrying a little boy with blonde hair and green eyes. At the sight of him Cherry Elliott gave a gulp, rising so swiftly that not even Nell Wilson was fast enough to stop her, she ran down the central aisle toward her son.

Robbie saw her coming, “Mummy!” his clear voice rang out, then with a sight-defying twist, he wriggled out of the woman’s grasp and ran toward his mother. They met in the middle and Cherry swept Robbie up into her arms, swinging him round and round before pulling him fiercely to her in a tight hug, Robbie flung his arms around Cherry’s neck,

“Mummy, Mummy, where you bin? I asked but no one knewed. Then Auntie Marion said I could call her Mummy.”

“Oh Robbie, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I wasn’t allowed to see you.”

“You are still mummy?” Robbie’s voice was so unsure that Cherry ached.

“Of course I’m still mummy, I’ll always be your mummy, Robbie, don’t ever forget that.” Cherry had tears in her eyes, she kissed Robbie and waited as Robbie kissed her back.

“You won’t go ‘way again?”

Cherry sighed, “I told you, Robbie, do you remember? Mummy has to stay in the big house for a while. But once I come out of there, I promise, I’ll not go away again.”

Robbie started to cry, “But why? Robbie wants you now, don’t go, mummy.” His little face screwed up as the tears fell.

Cherry hugged him closer, her own tears starting to fall, “It won’t be for long, I promise.” She wiped his eyes and kissed both of them, Robbie calmed down and snuggled into her shoulder.

“Mummy, want to see outside?”

“What’s outside?”

“A trakker, a red one, in the park,”

“A red tractor? Let’s go and see it then.” Moving slowly Cherry walked over to the court room door and stepped outside.

Back in the court room everyone else remained in silence, some moved almost to tears by the reunion. The Judge looked across at Ian French, “I have still to deliver the final part of my verdict, Mr French, have your client back here please in five minutes.”

At his words the two prison officers, sat directly behind Ian, suddenly looked at each other in shock, “Oh my God!” this from Miss Shaw, “Excuse us, Your Honour!” They both rushed out.

Last edited by Lesley on Mon Dec 20, 2004 9:02 pm; edited 2 times in total

#471: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 11:03 pm

Eeeek!

A little cliff to go to bed on the edge of! (Appalling grammar I know)

Thankyou Lesley - I think!

#472: Author: Cathy, Location: Sydney, Australia

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 11:05 pm

Oh dear, I hope Cherry hasn't done something stupid. Hoping that they will rush outside and see Cherry and Robbie on the tractor.

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

Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2004 11:51 pm

Just caught up on 3 pages of this - thanks Lesley Very Happy

Liz

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

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 12:49 am

LOL .... trustb the Officers to get caught up in the emotion and let her wander outside! I don't think she'll do anything daft though cos shes just been reunited with Robbie and she won't risk messing that up .. or I hope she won't.

#475: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 10:46 am

You bring her right back here Lesley! (please?)

Quote:

“You are still mummy?” Robbie’s voice was so unsure that Cherry ached.

((Robbie & Cherry))

#476: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 12:00 pm

Oooh...please allay our fears soon Lesley. I really hope Cherry hasn't one somethign stupid. thanks for the post Lesley

#477: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 1:39 pm

Lesley, come back, please and put my fears to rest.

Crying or Very sad

with the emotion of it.

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

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 4:08 pm

Oh Lesley don't spoil the moment by letting her do something silly. Please let her stood on the steps looking at the tractor. Please.

That was lovely, and such a good judge.

#479: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 5:52 pm

Thank you Lesley, I'm glad the judge was so sensible - just hoping that Cherry is too.

#480: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 6:10 pm

That was so lovely, Lesley. That scene must have clinched it anyway for the judge!

But, please don't let anything happen to her out there!

*still wibbling and hanging on by my fingernails*

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

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 6:32 pm

On the steps leading up to the Courthouse Cherry Elliott sat, cradling her son on her lap. Every so often she would nuzzle into his neck. She was listening to him chatter,

“An’ the man on the trakker goes round and round and all the grasses is cut, isn’t that clever, mummy?”

“Very clever Robbie, so where is the red one you told me about?”

“Over there,” a little arm pointed, there was a pause then, “Mummy can trakkers be other colours?”

“Tractors, Robbie,” Cherry replied, “I think so, I’ve seen green ones before,”

“What about lellow ones?”

“Yellow,” Cherry said absently, “No, I don’t know if I’ve ever seen a yellow tractor. I’ll find out.”

There was the sound, just behind them, of someone clearing their throat, Cherry looked round casually and saw Miss Shaw, her face paled as she suddenly realised what she had done,

“Oh, Miss Shaw, I-I-I’m sorry, I didn’t mean…”

That’s alright Elliott, I can see you didn’t mean to run,” the Senior Officer smiled, “There‘s no harm done, aside from giving both Mrs Francis and myself heart failure! But I think we’d better return now.”

Cherry stood up quickly, still holding Robbie, he looked across at the officer with suspicion, “Why’ve we got to go, mummy. Is this lady a nasty lady?”

Cherry bit her lip, “No Robbie,” she said quickly, “This is a nice lady, she’s been looking after me, while I’ve been in the big house.”

Last edited by Lesley on Sun Dec 19, 2004 7:32 pm; edited 1 time in total

#482: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 7:05 pm

*all lovely and warm and fuzzy* Very Happy

#483: Author: Alex, Location: Manchester

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 7:16 pm

Glad I missed all the cliffs.

#484: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 7:47 pm

Awww! How sweet.

I had visions of some nasties kidnapping her and Robbie and holding them to ransom to make RCS do what they wanted. *wipes brow*

Thanks Lesley.

#485: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 7:52 pm

Thank goodness Cherry stayed on the courthouse steps. Thanks, Lesley.

#486: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 8:15 pm

Thankyou Lesley - what a relief!

Lovely to see Cherry automatically going into 'mother-speak' - correcting Robbie's little mistakes without chastising him about it. It shows her in a very good light!

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

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 8:28 pm

The way Cherry spoke to Robbie shows so much about their relationship, as does the protective way he spoke to her. Absolutly beautiful Lesley. Thanks.

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

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 8:35 pm

so glad she'd not done a bunk Smile

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

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 8:44 pm

Absolutely fantastic - though I'm delighted I was away for a while and able to catch up all in one go - otherwise the cliffs would have given me several heart attacks

However not over yet!!

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

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 8:46 pm

Thank you Lesley! That was such a lovely scene! And love the prison officers panicking!!!!! Very Happy

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

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 9:13 pm

The nicer this gets, the more nervous I am about the final ruling. Some things may have been clearly made up, but the judge does still have grounds to disaprove of her past conduct...

I just hope he isn't going to be too strict about that, and will let Cherry retain her child.

Also whats going to happen to him in the interim? Will he remain at the Blakes? It would be hard for him to settle down somewhere elae again, but I don't altogether like the thought of what could happen if he does go back there. Confused

Maybe the RCS could be awarded temporary custody? Wink

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

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 10:25 pm

Back inside the court room the Judge looked across sternly at Cherry, “Miss Elliott, I am mindful that you had just been reunited with your son, but walking out halfway through a court case does not give a good impression.”

Cherry, sat with Robbie on her lap, nodded, “Yes Sir, I’m sorry Sir. It’ll not happen again.”

“Very well,” the Judge did not appear too displeased. “Now, we come to the final part of my verdict. Deciding on whether or not Cherry Elliott should be allowed custody of her son when she is released. There are a number of factors to consider, firstly, the age of Miss Elliott herself, at only nineteen years old, with no family, she could find it very difficult to provide a good and stable home for her son. More importantly, her previous actions, and her recent conviction for…” he stopped and stared hard at the little boy for a few seconds. “…her recent convictions, would suggest that the boy was being subjected to immoral and indefensible behaviour and was not being allowed to grow. Reading the Social Workers reports, however, lead me to acknowledge that you have religiously ensured that your son have no contact with the seamier side of your profession - for that you are to be commended.”

At these words Cherry nodded slightly and tightened her grip on the quietly drowsing Robbie.

“I find, however, that, despite the offer of employment and accommodation made, that I have misgivings, you have friends but you would still have sole responsibility not only for your own life, but that of your son. Have you any relations that could be asked to stand as guarantor for your behaviour?”

Cherry shook her head, “I’ve no contactable relations Sir, my mum’s dead, I never knew my dad. I’ve got an older brother and sister, but I’ve no idea where they are.” her voice was distressed and Robbie roused to look at his mum with worry.

There was a movement next to Cherry and Hilda Annersley stood up, “Your Honour, I would be happy to stand as guarantor for Cherry. I am the Headmistress at the School where Cherry will be living and working. I have no doubt that she will do well.”

There was silence for a time as the Judge looked through some papers on his desk, “Er, Miss Annersley, is it? Thank you, I‘ve just been looking at the Social Worker reports, you would appear to be a suitable candidate.” He turned back to Cherry, “Do you accept, Miss Elliott? It will mean that you will be allowed to retain custody of your son but that, technically, Miss Annersley will have responsibility for both of you. She will, in effect, have adopted both of you.”

“And I’d have Robbie?” Cherry said quietly.

“From the 11th December, yes.”

Cherry looked over at Hilda, “Thank you,” she whispered, she turned to the Judge, “Yes Sir, that is acceptable to me.”

The Judge nodded, “Very well, then that is my Verdict.” He stopped and looked from Cherry to the Blakes still sat at the other table. “There is still the matter of where the boy Robbie should be placed for the next 17 days…”

“Robbie with Mummy!” Robbie had roused enough to hear that! While Cherry hastily tried to hush her son, the Judge smiled,

“Yes Robbie,” he said, speaking directly to the boy, “But Mummy has to go away for a little longer, and I rather doubt that she will want you to return to the Blakes…”

“No!” This from Cherry herself, she quickly looked round then spoke to the Judge, “Could Robbie go with Hilda? I mean she’s adopting both of us, I’d be happy for that.”

The Judge looked across at the older woman, “Miss Annersley?”

Hilda Annersley sat, somewhat surprised, she was being asked to personally look after a three year old little boy. She looked across at her partner, knowing that Robbie’s presence was likely to have a very disruptive influence.

Nell smiled, “Go for it, Hilda!”

“Are you sure, Nell?”

“Of course, the number of kids we’ve raised between us, what’s one more!”

The Head turned to the Judge, “I will be happy to take Robbie now, Sir.”

#493: Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 10:31 pm

YAY

THANK YOU LESLEY YOU ARE INDEED SHINY!!! ROFL

*Kathye just hoping on to see if there was more RCS before bed, and woohooo there was Mr. Green

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

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 10:36 pm

Now this is going to be fun. Hilda and a 3 year old. Razz

#495: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 10:39 pm

Oh hurray and huzzah and hurray again for Hilda and the very lovely judge! Very Happy

Thanks Lesley Red Blob Jumping

Not only did I manage to miss the cliff, but I've managed to time it perfectly to find this lovely shiny final post just before going to bed.

Feeling very fuzzy now!

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

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 10:51 pm

Awwwwww!

I´m so glad there wasn´t a scary kidnapping (now you wouldn´t do that while Robbie´s in Hilda´s care, would you, Lesley?) and also that we{re going to have fun seeing Hilda & Nell looking after a 3 year old! Will they go to Jo for help, do you think?

Thank you Lesley! Kiss

#497: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2004 11:11 pm

YAY!

*looking forward to seeing Hilda and a 3 yr old. Confused

*

Thank you Lesley. Great conclusion to that dilemma!!!

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

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 12:38 am

Is the school planning on re-opening St Nicholas's branch? (That was the kindy wasn't it?)

Thank you Lesley!

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

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 1:33 am

Yay! This should be interesting...

Glad I missed the cliffs!

#500: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 9:54 am

Sublime!

*beams*

#501: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 10:22 am

Miss Di wrote

Quote:

Is the school planning on re-opening St Nicholas's branch? (That was the kindy wasn't it?)

Yes it was, but I'm think they've got it or something like - do you remember when all the littlies had flu & they got a nurse in to look after them?

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

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 11:00 am

The KG is definatly part of RCS. I work there as a nursery nurse!!!

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

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 11:11 am

Wonderful posts. Thank you Lesley! All warm and fuzzy and I'm so looking forward to seeing Hilda and Nell with a three year old!

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

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 11:21 am

yeah! so glad that all worked out well
happy shiny posts, thanks lesley

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

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 11:30 am

Thanks Lesley! *beams Very Happy

#506: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 12:02 pm

Thanks, Lesley, weeping tears of relief and happiness.

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

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 3:52 pm

Aww thats lovely.
Hilda looking after Robbie ... that'll be lovely - can see Carolyn being on standby

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

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 4:38 pm

Yay!!!!!
Lesley, I never cease to marvel at your extreme shinyness!!!

Hilda and Nell with a three year old!! So much potential for humour there!!!! Laughing

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

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 5:18 pm

*breathes sigh of relief*

*starts looking for next cliff....*

#510: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 6:55 pm

I just meant to run in to check up- got the flu Crying or Very sad

- but i couldnt resist saying how much i love the idea of hilda with a three year old!!!
please let us see it Lesley!

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

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 7:49 pm

At the words the Judge nodded, “Very well, it is so ordered,” he turned to the Blakes, “Please arrange for Robbie Elliott’s clothes and belongings to be delivered to,” he checked a piece of paper, “The Real Chalet School, Point Nepean.”

Jack Blake nodded quickly, his wife did nothing, continuing to bury her head in her husband’s shoulder.

The Judge continued to speak, “I am not happy at some of your actions over the last three nights, Mr and Mrs Blake, however I am sure that you provided Robbie Elliott with a good and stable home for the 5 months he was with you. I will be asking the Social Services to review your status in fostering children, however I will not be recommending that they stop using you.” He swept out of the courtroom.

Left in the room Cherry started to explain to Robbie that he would have to go with Hilda, before she’d said more than a few words though, the Blakes’ lawyer walked across.

“My clients will, of course, send on all of Robbie’s things,” she said, “but they have requested that I ask you something, Miss Elliott.”

“What?” Cherry wasn’t particularly well-disposed to the lawyer.

“They ask if it is possible that they be allowed to say goodbye to Robbie.”

Cherry stared, “After what they tried to do? No, why should they?”

The woman turned away but stopped when Ian French caught her arm, “Wait a minute,” he said gently, he turned to Cherry, “I know you’re angry Cherry, but, although I don’t agree with what they did, well, perhaps they thought they had cause. A friend of mine, a private investigator, dug up some information about the Blakes, in the event I didn’t need to use it, but you might be interested.” He handed over a document.

Cherry read the paper, she looked up, “They can’t have kids?” she said quietly.

Ian shook his head, “And the last time they tried IVF it failed, they are too old for any more.”

Hilda leant forward, “IVF?”

Cherry turned, “Test tube babies,” she said, her face rather distressed. She sat for a time, thinking, she shook her head again, “No, no I can’t,” she said, “I don’t want them here.” She rocked Robbie again and Hilda sat next to her with an arm around her shoulder. She whispered something to the girl. Cherry thought about it then said, “OK, if you think it best, I can allow that.”

Hilda smiled, she turned to address the lawyer, “Cherry does not want the Blakes to speak to Robbie today,” she said quietly, “But if they would like to contact me tomorrow about delivering Robbie’s possessions, they may see him for a short visit at the School.”

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

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 7:51 pm

Oh good! I was really worried they were going to 'say goodbye' to him whilst actually kidnapping him. Thanks Lesley!

#513: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 8:02 pm

Thank you Lesley. A very satisfactory conclusion - though Hilda dealing with a 'terrible three' should prove interesting Shocked

I can't help wondering if Hilda is hoping to find out more about the background to this case.

*suspicious as always Wink

#514: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 9:13 pm

I think Cherry is being very generous.

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

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 9:22 pm

The Blakes’ lawyer returned to tell them what had been said; after only a short time they all left the room.

Cherry turned back to her son, “Now I’ve got to go back to the big house, Robbie, I’ll be there for another two weeks or so, that's all.”

“No, Mummy stay!” Robbie sat up and scowled at Cherry.

“I can’t darling, remember what I said? About being naughty?”

“Robbie naughty must stand in corner or go to his room.”

“That’s right,” Cherry hugged him, “Well Mummy was naughty, so I must go to the big house for a little longer.”

“Don’t want you to go, Mummy, Robbie come too!”

“No, you can’t Robbie, but you can do something for me.” Cherry lifted her son’s head up from where he had buried it in her shoulder. “I want you to go with this lady,” she indicated Hilda, “This is my friend, her name is Hilda, now we are going to be living with her, so you must go ahead and check that there’s enough room. That we’ve got a nice place to live. Can you do that, for me?”

Robbie looked across at Hilda, “Is this a nice lady?”

“Yes, a very nice lady!”

#516: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 9:26 pm

Ah, it's so lovely to see Cherry and Robbie together. We'll all help Hilda with him, there are enough of us.

#517: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 9:56 pm

Thankyou Lesley - wow, three posts since I last looked, and that was only last night!

I'm looking forward to see how Hilda copes with a 3 year old too!

#518: Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham

Posted: Mon Dec 20, 2004 11:22 pm

Thanks Lesley am really enjoying this lots.... Mr. Green

Glad she agreed to let them say goodbye, cause it would just cause Robbie more confusion otherwise.

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

Posted: Tue Dec 21, 2004 2:29 am

Thank you Lesley!

Robbie's a real cutie!!!

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

Posted: Tue Dec 21, 2004 8:23 am

Thank you Lesley

I am sure Hilda would have no problems dealing with a three year old! After all she must have had plenty of practice with all her brevet nieces & nephews.

Liz

#521: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Tue Dec 21, 2004 9:02 am

i don't think she has that much practice with 24 hour caring for them though Liz! Sending Hilda: chunky crayons & sugar paper; sturdy, modern books; tray puzzles & simple interlocking puzzles; a sand tray; a water tray; a garage with cars; a climbing frame; tea set & multicultural cooking equipment; dolls & clothes; dressing up clothes...

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

Posted: Tue Dec 21, 2004 11:19 am

...and an endless supply of patience and imagination.

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

Posted: Tue Dec 21, 2004 2:29 pm

Thank you Lesley!

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

Posted: Tue Dec 21, 2004 2:41 pm

Carolyn P wrote:

...and an endless supply of patience and imagination.

Think she has that - but will be interesting to see if Robbie tests it! Wink

He seems like a real cutie though Smile

#525: Author: CBB Secret Santa,

Posted: Tue Dec 21, 2004 5:42 pm

Lesley was very helpful to me and so I promised her an extra present. Here it is!

Lesley, the lime green drabbler
had a very shiny tale.
And if you go and read it,
you will stand and say ‘All Hail!

All of the other drabblers
used to bow and call for more.
They never let green Lesley
stop relating RCS lore

Then one foggy Christmas Eve
Santa came to say:
"Lesley with your tale so bright,
won't you grace the CBB tonight?"

Oh how the drabblers loved her
as they shouted out with glee,
Lesley the lime green drabbler,
you'll go down in history!

See, even Santa is hooked on RCS! Hoping for lots more over the holidays Lesley, and thank you very much for your help. Wink

#526: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Dec 21, 2004 6:52 pm

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

Posted: Tue Dec 21, 2004 7:31 pm

*giggles*

Very clever Santa!! You HAVE been busy haven't you?

*wonders what time Lesley will get in to post.....*

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

Posted: Tue Dec 21, 2004 7:40 pm

Oh good grief!!!! Laughing

Thank you Santa! Kiss

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

Posted: Tue Dec 21, 2004 9:09 pm

And me again!

Hilda sat next to Cherry and talked with both her and Robbie for a time, Robbie took some persuading and a fair number of tears, but eventually he seemed to accept that he couldn’t stay with Mummy. Looking over at Hilda he said,

“Are you a Missus Hilda?”

Hilda thought for a moment, slightly behind her Nell Wilson spoke, “No, she’s an Auntie Hilda, and I’m Auntie Nell. Hello Robbie!”

“Auntie Hilda, Auntie Nell,” Robbie repeated the words, he giggled then whispered in Cherry’s ear, Cherry promptly giggled too,

“No Robbie, not Nelly the Elephant!”

Hilda and Nell looked at each other, “Don’t say a word, Hilda!”

They sat next to Cherry, telling Robbie about his new home, until he became drowsy and fell asleep, his head on Cherry’s shoulder. When that happened the two Heads got up and moved away so they could talk without disturbing them.

“I’m going to need to buy a few things, Nell,” this from Hilda, “not least a car seat, some pyjamas and other clothes. I’ve no idea how long the Blakes will take to return his belongings.”

“We’re going to have to buy some things, Hilda,” Nell replied firmly, “It’s a joint effort.”

Hilda smiled and reached out to squeeze her friend’s shoulder, “Thank you,” she said softly.

“No worries,” Nell grinned, “Now, I’m sure there must be some shops open now, it’s only just after nine pm. I’m just pleased we decided to come in the car tonight, we’d have been in trouble if we’d brought the bikes!”

“We should be quick, we don’t know how long before Cherry’s got to go.” Hilda said quickly, she then stopped, seeing the prison officers return from outside - they had been out to check on the prison van.

“There will be a delay in returning to the prison,” Miss Shaw said quietly, not wanting to disturb the family scene with Cherry and her son. Hilda and Nell looked across quizzically,

“The van has a puncture and neither of us are able to change the wheel,” Mrs Francis said quickly, “The breakdown people will be about an hour.”

Ian French looked across, “If it’s wheel changing ladies, I can do that for…”

His voice cut off as Nell elbowed him in the ribs. “No you can’t,” she said quickly, nodding her head toward Cherry.

“Oh, ah, no, sorry, I can’t,” Ian grinned. He looked across at the others, “Well as we’ve got to wait, we might as well be comfy, coffee anyone? There’s a machine just outside.”

While he went to fetch drinks the others all settled themselves, watching Cherry cradling her sleeping son.

#530: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Tue Dec 21, 2004 9:41 pm

Quote:

“The van has a puncture and neither of us are able to change the wheel,” Mrs Francis said quickly.... Ian French looked across, “If it’s wheel changing ladies, I can do that for…”

Typical male, assumes women really can't do anything Smile

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

Posted: Tue Dec 21, 2004 9:55 pm

Love Nelly the Elephant! This could be so much fun. Razz

#532: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Dec 21, 2004 10:24 pm

Thank you Lesley.

Quote:

Typical male, assumes women really can't do anything

I was more amused that he didn't catch on Confused

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

Posted: Tue Dec 21, 2004 10:27 pm

Nelly the Elephant Smile

bless him

#534: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Dec 21, 2004 10:30 pm

Quote:

“No Robbie, not Nelly the Elephant!”

Really looking forward to seeing these two with Robbie. Very Happy

Thanks Lesley

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

Posted: Tue Dec 21, 2004 11:12 pm

*giggles wildly at 'Nelly the Elephant!'*

Lovely post Lesley!!!

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

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 12:13 am

Now I wonder who caused the puncture in the first place? Wink

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

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 1:06 am

Lesley wrote:

“No worries,” Nell grinned, “Now, I’m sure there must be some shops open now, it’s only just after nine pm.

I'm dreaming of a city where the shops (other than supermarkets) are open that late!!!! Maybe I'll move to Melbourne after all Laughing

Lovely Lesley. Despite being at home with my ancient computer, even older modem, and sticky keyboard I had to log on to check what you are up to inn RCSland.

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

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 9:33 am

It was quite late before the two Heads finally returned to the Real Chalet School. When it had become time for Cherry to leave Robbie had awoken and his tears and sobs were enough that Cherry was also in tears. Some of the others were close too! It took some time to calm the little boy down, eventually, totally exhausted, he fell asleep in Hilda’s arms. A quick check of nearby shops had revealed some all-night opening supermarkets, and a change of clothes and pyjamas were purchased. However it proved impossible to find a car seat and in the end they had to make do without. Robbie, asleep, cradled on Hilda’s lap, while Nell drove slowly home.

As Hilda said, “I know we’re probably breaking all sorts of laws, but we have to get this child to bed.”

Fate was with them, however, and they reached the School unscathed; picking up a pass for Robbie on the way in. In their cottage they went up to the spare bedroom and quickly undressed Robbie and pulled on his new pyjamas. Robbie stayed asleep throughout all of this, even a trip to the bathroom woke him only enough to perform before dropping off once more. The two stood looking down at the sleeping child.

“I’ll stay in here tonight, Nell,” Hilda said very quietly, so as not to disturb the boy, “He’ll need to have someone here when he wakes, it’ll be too frightening for him otherwise, strange house, strange bed.”

Nell disappeared out into the garden and returned with a couple of sun loungers, “We might as well both stay,” she replied, “and at least try to be comfortable!”

It took a little figuring out, and a number of muffled giggles, before the two loungers were set up in the room. The two then tried to settle for the night.

The following morning, a little after six o’clock, Robbie sat up in bed and looked round him in astonishment, he looked across at the two loungers, only one was occupied, “Who you?” he said with a frown on his little face.

Nell Wilson smiled, “I’m Auntie Nell,” she said, “Who are you?”

“I’m Robbie,” Robbie sounded surprised that she didn’t know that! He looked around, “Where’s Mummy?”

“She’s not here Robbie, she told you last night, remember?”

The little boy started to cry, “Want Mummy!”

Nell scooped him up, “I know, but it won’t be long till she can join us. We’ll look after you.”

Robbie refused to be consoled, holding himself as stiff as a board in Nell’s arms. She ignored that and carried him into the bathroom. She turned on the taps and started to fill the bath. Robbie looked at it, “Don’t want bath!”

“Don’t you?” Nell said cheerfully, “Well you’re having one, otherwise you can’t have any breakfast,”

“Don’t want breakfast,” said the sulky voice.

“Well that’s a pity, Robbie,” it was a new voice, they both turned to see Hilda standing in the doorway, she had obviously been awake for a while as she was changed ready to start the day as Headmistress, she smiled at Nell, “You see it’s only good little boys, one that have a bath and eat all their breakfast, that will be taken to see the green tractor outside.”

“Green trakker?” Robbie forgot his tears and looked over with excitement.

Hilda spoke quietly to Nell, “They’re cutting the grass outside, seemed a pity to waste it.” She then turned to Robbie, “Yes Robbie, and we’ll take you to see it, as soon as you’ve had your bath and finished breakfast.”

Sometime later, with a very clean Robbie excitedly finishing his breakfast and milk, Hilda looked down at her attire, “Can you take him out to see the tractor Nell? I’m afraid I’m going to have to change.”

Nell Wilson, newly returned from where she had showered and changed after bathing Robbie, laughed, “That’ll teach you to try and bathe him while dressed as the Head!”

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Dec 22, 2004 10:13 am; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 10:01 am

Lovely, thank you Lesley!

Very funny that Ian French didn't catch on. And am loving Hilda and Nell with Robbie. They're not doing too badly yet!

Does a post at 9.30am mean you've finished work for Christmas Lesley?

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

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 10:11 am

'Fraid not! I'm off today - just going out to finish Xmas shopping.Working tomorrow then off Xmas Eve.

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

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 10:13 am

Have fun Christmas shopping!

#542: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 10:39 am

Oh lovely!! Very Happy

Poor Nell though!! Nelly the Elephant! Rolling Eyes

ETA - almost forgot (after getting sucked back into RCS), - that Santa poem was brilliant!! ROFL

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

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 10:51 am

*trying very hard not to break into Nelly the Elephant song*

Thank you Lesley! Luffly! Very Happy

Oh, and the Santa poem was fantastic! Very Happy

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

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 2:43 pm

That was wonderful Lesley! Thank you!

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

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 4:09 pm

Aww how lovely! Hope you had a good day Xmas shopping Lesley!

#546: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 8:19 pm

Thanks for the posts. Really gald to see that Robbie is remaining with Cherry. Did you get all your christmas shopping done?

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

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 8:31 pm

Gem wrote:

*trying very hard not to break into Nelly the Elephant song*

I just caught myself humming it... Bang Head

Santa, that poem was brilliant!

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

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 8:58 pm

Ann wrote:

Gem wrote:

*trying very hard not to break into Nelly the Elephant song*

I just caught myself humming it... Bang Head

Santa, that poem was brilliant!

Ann! I was succeeding until you said that! Bang Head

Can someone please make me stop checking RCS and go and wrap Christmas presents?? Crying or Very sad

Not that I want to stop checking RCS, you understand... but Cath may not be entirely happy on Christmas Day if things continue as they are Embarassed

But thank you Lesley - loving it, and feeling all warm and fuzzy Very Happy

#549: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 9:06 pm

Gem!
Stop checking RCS and go and wrap pressies!
You know that's what Lesley wants us to be doing! Continually checking to see if she's posted! Wink

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

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 9:11 pm

I haven't written any more yet - but will post before I go to bed. Currently checking the board.

(Sorry to those who thought this a post of RCS)

#551: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 9:25 pm

*wonders when 'bedtime' is..*
*looks hopeful*

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

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 10:25 pm

Later a number of people met in the Head’s Study, Miss Annersley smiled round at Ruth Derwent, Jennie MacLeod and Carolyn Phillips, then across at her partner.

“Firstly, thank you Ruth for covering for both Nell and myself this morning. I’m afraid neither of us was in a fit state to come across to take Breakfast!” She looked across at the Nursery Mistress, “And Carolyn, realising that you deal with eight lively three year olds has filled me with awe!”

“It’s far easier when they are not your own, Hilda!”

“Perhaps.” the Head took a breath, “Ladies I, Nell and I, have taken on responsibility for young Robbie…”

“Sorry Hilda,” Jennie interrupted, “but where is the lad?”

“Having a ride on a ‘green trakker’ at the moment,” Miss Wilson smiled, “known to the rest of us as a motorised lawn mower. One of the vehicles is large enough for a second man to sit behind the driver, and Shane Coates volunteered to have Robbie on his lap.”

Hilda Annersley smiled, “As I said, we have taken on Robbie, and we do not want to abrogate that responsibility, but at the same time, we have our responsibilities to the School.”

“Are you thinking about combining them, Hilda? Enrolling Robbie in the School?” This from Ruth Derwent.

Hilda nodded, “We thought it worth consideration. I appreciate that he is younger than any of your class, Carolyn, and that you already have eight pupils, but would there be any possibility?”

“He’d be eligible to start in the New Year anyway, and that’s only a little over five weeks from now. As to the numbers, Sheryl has been helping out in my class as Sue has another helper - one of the mums is qualified - so we’re covered. It wouldn’t be a problem, Hilda. Would you want him to be a boarder?”

Everyone looked across at the Senior Housemistress, Jennie thought for a moment, “It wouldn’t be a problem, Hilda, only four of the Kinders are boarders, there’s room for another easily….” she stopped and looked at both Heads, “…but neither of you seem happy about that.”

Hilda shook her head, “No, I don’t think that will be fair on the boy. He’s been through a lot over the last six months or so. He needs time to get to know the pair of us, at the moment we‘re little more than strangers to him.”

“He also need some solid routines to hold onto,” Nell Wilson observed, “especially as he is missing his mum badly and has just been moved from the Blakes, where he obviously built up a good relationship with them.”

Miss Annersley shook her head, “No, he’ll be a day pupil Carolyn, if that is suitable. He’s used to Nursery, Cherry informed me that he used to attend regularly when they were together and the Blakes continued that…”

She stopped as there was a knock on the door, on hearing her reply, ‘come in’ the door opened and Shane Coates stood there, Robbie was standing next to him, holding his hand.

“Excuse me, Miss Annersley, Robbie has something to tell you,”

The little boy looked round the room quickly then fastened on faces he knew, he ran across to Miss Wilson, she picked him up and gave him a cuddle, he put his arms round her neck, “Auntie Nell, did you see? I was onna trakker! It went round and round an I nearly fell off!”

Both Nell and Hilda looked across sharply at Shane, he blushed, “He slipped slightly, but he was in no danger, honest!” He swallowed, then decided that discretion was the greater part of valour and disappeared.

Robbie then slipped off of Nell’s lap and ran across to Miss Annersley, “The trakker was so fast, Auntie Hilda, but I wasn’t fwightened of it.” He climbed onto the Head’s lap and snuggled into her shoulder.

Ruth Derwent, Carolyn Phillips and Jennie MacLeod all looked at the little boy, “Er, Hilda, Nell,” Ruth said quietly, “I don’t think he considers either of you strangers!”

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Dec 22, 2004 11:06 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 11:00 pm

aww bless him. I have a feeling he'll be running H&N ragged by xmas! Smile

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

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 11:06 pm

Well... just to help all those of you who were struggling...

Trumpet

Nelly the elephant packed her trunk
And said goodbye to the circus,
Off she went with a trumpety trump,
Trump, Trump, Trump!
Trumpet

I'm still working on inventing a CS version Laughing

and those of you who want a distraction can try:

The wheels on the bus go round and round
round and round
round andround
The wheels on the bus go round and round
all day long.

I have actually invented enough verses of that to sing it without a break or repeating myself for fifteen minutes. so it should keep you very busy.
I might have been preventented from getting a degree at the moment, but I didn't train as a kindergarten teacher for nothing!

Also wanted to say that I'm glad Hilda has some real family ties now. She has effectivly adopted a daughter and a grandson - both of whom were born in a (very) real world. Having family beyond those who were invented by EBD will be great for her, and I'm glad to see her with them.

#555: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 11:21 pm

Miriam on the bus sings lots of songs,
Lots of songs, lots of songs,
Miriam on the bus sings lots of songs,
All day long!

Lesley on the bus writes RCS,
RCS, RCS,
Lesley on the bus writes RCS,
All day long!

#556: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Dec 22, 2004 11:28 pm

Awww! bless! Isn't he sweet.

I hadn't thought of Miriam's point that this is 'family' for Hilda. What a nice idea!

#557: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 12:30 am

Ohhhh this is really lovely.

I'm so glad Robbie's happy with hilda and nell - although i wonder how the stately heads of the chalet school are going to cope with a three year old once the novelty wears off!!

ETA thats the novelty for robbie, not for H&N

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

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 3:58 am

Even my mouse is sticky today. Must be the weather. Howver, what I'm really writting for is to once again express my awe and admiration over Lesley's skill. Thank you Lesley. Robbie is soooo cute (and I don't even like children!)

Hope you all have a merry Christmas, I'm off to finish my chores and get organised to go to Sydney tomorrow. See you all on Boxing Day

#559: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 9:32 am

He is sooooo sweet!
(And so's Robbie Wink

)

Bless them all!

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

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 10:29 am

Roobie is soo lovely and I can't wait to see how much chaos he causes!! Thank you Lesley Very Happy

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

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 10:40 am

Lovely! Very cute! Thank you Lesley!

#562: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 4:26 pm

All exceedingly wonderful! Very Happy

But I NEED to know the tune to this Nelly the Elephant song.
(already well acquainted with umpteen verses about the bus)

#563: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 5:05 pm

Kathy_S wrote:

But I NEED to know the tune to this Nelly the Elephant song.
(already well acquainted with umpteen verses about the bus)

are you QUITE sure?

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

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 5:45 pm

Thank you, Lesley! Very Happy

#565: Author: Alex, Location: Manchester

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 6:33 pm

And the next bit to Nelly goes (after 4 lines posted by Miriam)

The head of the herd was calling
Far, Far Away.
They met one night by the pale moonlight
On the road to Mandelay.

Then another verse similar to the first in which Nelly packs her trunk and trundles off to the jungle rather than saying goodbye to the circus.

#566: Author: Katie, Location: London, but my heart belongs to Harrogate

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 8:17 pm

Phew! I've spent the last couple of weeks reading the *entire* RCS series and have therefore missed all the cliffs so far. But I suppose I'll be joining you all at the bottom of a few before this story is over!

Lesley - these stories are excellent! Keep it up. Smile

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

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 11:09 pm

This is connected to evvy's 'experiement' in Exploits rather than anything to do with whats happening here (which is what I was trying for) but since it hit me as I was falling asleep, I thouht I'd share it.

Evvy in chemistry made a bang
And said goodbye to her eyebrows,
Off she went with Matey in tow:
Hot milk, hot milk, hot milk!

And kathye S, tunes don't go too well over this board, but ask the nearest five yearold of your aquaintance, and they should be able to help. Failing that, phone a local CBBer - a lot of us seem to be familier with it!

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

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 11:19 pm

'Fraid I'm in a very silly mood tonight!

Both women smiled and Miss Annersley hugged the little boy snuggled on her lap, “At the moment, at least,” she said, “that is the case. Thank you all of you.” She looked round at the three women and they, recognising a dismissal, all stood up.

“Er when did you want Robbie to start, Hilda?” Carolyn Phillips asked the question.

Hilda and Nell looked at each other, “Not this week, Hilda, surely?”

Miss Annersley shook her head, “No, Nell, I think the next few days we’ll just let him settle in. How about Monday, Carolyn? That way he’ll be with you for three weeks in total as we break up on December 17th.”

“That will be fine.”

The three left the room, leaving the Headmistress and Deputy Headmistress alone with their newest pupil. The silence was broken by Robbie himself, he wriggled off of Hilda’s lap and put his hand in his pocket, “Mr Shane give me these, look!” he said, holding out some small objects. Both women looked at the three tiny model cars. He gave one to the Head then ran over and gave one to Nell Wilson. Walking over to the far wall of the Study, near the connecting door to the Deputy Head’s Study he then looked back impatiently. “Here, Auntie Nell, Auntie Hilda, we have to start here.”

The two looked at each other, puzzled, “Start what, Robbie?” Hilda asked.

“The race, Auntie Hilda, come on,” he ran back to the Head and held her hand, pulling her from her chair, she allowed herself to be pulled, once he was happy with where she was standing he ran across and did the same to Miss Wilson, standing beside them he then said very solemnly, “Now, do same as me,” and promptly fell down onto his knees.

The two exchanged glances but both obeyed orders, “What do we do now, Robbie?” Nell Wilson had a huge grin on her face while saying that.

“Like this, Auntie Nell,” and, pushing the car along Robbie promptly crawled from one wall to the other as fast as his little legs would let him.

“There is no way on Earth I can do that, Nell!”

“Well in that case I’ll beat you then!” Nell Wilson replied, her grin even wider.

Robbie returned, “When I say go we go.” He looked at both women, “Ready steady GO!” As he said that he shot off, with a last glance at each other the two women did the same, after a short, frantic race across the room Robbie reached the wall first, closely followed by Miss Wilson then finally Miss Annersley.

“You’s last Auntie Hilda,” Robbie informed her gleefully.

“Never mind Robbie, at least you won.” The Head smiled, “would you like to play cars on the table now?”

“No, we must have ‘nother race!”

“Must we?”

In total Robbie insisted on three more races, and the race order remained the same, then, the fourth time, he was beaten into second place.

“Auntie Nell, I’m supposed to win!”

“Well you’ll have to beat me, Robbie,” Nell Wilson said with a smile, and went on to win again, Robbie looked a little upset.

“Let him win, Nell!” Hilda’s voice was very low.

“He’ll have to try harder!”

The Head looked across thoughtfully then, just before Robbie called out his ‘Ready steady GO’, she leant across and flicked Nell’s car halfway along the wall,

“Quick Robbie, go now! Then Auntie Nell can’t beat you!”

Robbie shot forward with Hilda close behind, the Deputy Head sprang for her car then tried to catch up, but the others were too far ahead.

“Auntie Nell is last, Auntie Nell is last,” Robbie laughed.

Nell looked across at where her partner was trying, unsuccessfully, to keep a straight face, she looked back at Robbie, “You cheated Robbie Elliott, I think that deserves a lot of tickling!” She advanced on the little boy. Robbie gave a little scream and ran over toward the Head,

“No tickle, no tickle!” he placed his head under her arm, trying to get protection. Then he clambered onto her lap and shoulder. Hilda, laughing, held onto him even as he gave another yelp and tried to climb onto her head, and Nell moved closer to carry out her threat.

At that moment there was a quick knock on the door and it opened, Rosalie Dean ushered in a short, round man in a suit, “Miss Annersley, this is the local Mayor? I believe you were expecting him?”

#569: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 11:23 pm

Lolol! You are rather, aren't you? That was very funny. I could just picture it!

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

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 11:26 pm

Brilliant timing Rosalie!

Loveing this. Laughing

#571: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 11:29 pm

How the mighty are fallen! Lovely, Lesley and quite reasonable, given a three year old in charge of events.

Thank you. Very Happy

#572: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 11:44 pm

Fantastic! Laughing

I wonder what the mayor is going to say?

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

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 11:48 pm

*giggles!*
That was wonderful! thank you Lesley!!!

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

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 11:49 pm

Oh BRILLIANT!! They say comedy is all in the timing....
Thanks Lesley!

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

Posted: Thu Dec 23, 2004 11:58 pm

*rolling around with mirth!*

Just smashing, Lesley!

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

Posted: Fri Dec 24, 2004 12:14 am

awwwww- can picture this so vividly! Love the way Nell wouldn't let him win all the time and the way Hilda intervened! Smile

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

Posted: Fri Dec 24, 2004 12:22 am

So glad you were in a silly mood, cos that was just brilliant

#578: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Fri Dec 24, 2004 2:34 am

Yes, indeed, I can imagine that!

Quote:

And kathye S, tunes don't go too well over this board, but ask the nearest five yearold of your aquaintance, and they should be able to help. Failing that, phone a local CBBer - a lot of us seem to be familier with it!

Well, since there are no local CBBers Sad

, I'll try the five-year-olds over Christmas and hope for the best!

#579: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Fri Dec 24, 2004 9:48 am

Thanks Lesley

#580: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Fri Dec 24, 2004 2:45 pm

Hoping the Mayor has children/grandchildren and plays withthem!

#581: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Fri Dec 24, 2004 11:13 pm

Thanks Lesley. Hope the mayor has a sense of fun

#582: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Sat Dec 25, 2004 9:59 am

I was watching my sons play with cars & would like to suggest to Hilda that she teaches Robbie a new car game - have the cars on the table & zoom them as fast as you can. The aim is to get your car further than anyone else's Very Happy

. & if Hilda gets in some practice before introducing it to Robbie, she can beat Nell (not that i'm suggesting that Hilda & Nell can be competivitve...)

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

Posted: Mon Dec 27, 2004 1:02 pm

Thanks Jennie! Kiss

There was a split second of absolute silence; then Miss Annersley rose to her feet, still holding Robbie, she smiled across at the man,

“Your Worship, I’m Hilda Annersley, the Headmistress, my apologies for your welcome, I’m afraid we lost track of time playing with Robbie here.” She shook the man’s hand then continued, “This is Nell Wilson, my Deputy Head,” Miss Wilson had also regained her feet by then, and stepped forward to shake hands. “and this is Robbie, our newest and youngest pupil.”

The man smiled, “Well hello Robbie, have you been playing with your Headmistress?”

“She’s my Auntie Hilda, she’s looking after me, till mummy can come.”

Miss Annersley smiled while passing Robbie across to Miss Wilson, “I have temporary Guardianship over Robbie until his mother is able to join us,” she explained, “though I must admit, I’d forgotten just how active a three-year old can be!”

“Oh I agree,” the Mayor smiled back, “I’ve three grandchildren, and they’ve all been through that stage.”

Miss Wilson took Robbie and turned to the Head, “We’ll leave you for now,” she said, then, with her back to the Mayor she continued very quietly, “How can you possibly look so calm?”

Miss Annersley’s expression didn’t change but the words, “Practice, Nell,” floated back.

Miss Wilson walked over and entered her own Study via the connecting door, inside she deposited Robbie at the table and got some paper and coloured pencils for him, quickly removing a rather large and expensive Chemistry textbook from his grasp.

“Want to play with cars, Auntie Nell, want to play cars with you and Auntie Hilda,”

“Not now Robbie,” she replied, “Auntie Hilda is busy. Why don’t you draw me a car? If it’s good we can put it up on the wall at home.”

“Can you help me, Auntie Nell?”

Miss Wilson sat next to the little boy and the pair were occupied drawing cars for the next ten minutes or so, then…

“What we do now, Auntie Nell?”

Miss Wilson sighed, “Well I hoped we could draw more cars, but…” There was a tap at the door, on the Deputy Head’s call to come in the door opened and Jennie MacLeod, the Senior Housemistress stood there.

“Nell, wondered if you would like a hand with young Robbie there?”

Nell smiled then her expression sobered again, “It’s very kind of you, Jennie, but he’s our responsibility, Hilda’s and mine. Hilda because she accepted it and mine because we’re partners. It would not be right to expect anyone from the School to help out. That would just be abusing our positions as Head and Deputy Head.”

Jennie sat at the table, “That’s ridiculous, Nell, no one would consider either of you were abusing your positions. In fact all of us would welcome the chance to do something for the pair of you.” She turned to Robbie, “Would you like to play on the beach, Robbie? Build a sand castle?”

“Oooohh yes!” Robbie’s eyes were round like circles, he looked across at Nell Wilson, “Can I go to the beach with this lady, Auntie Nell? Can I?”

“I really hope your Auntie Hilda doesn’t get to hear your grammar!” the Deputy Head said under her breath, she smiled, “You must be a good boy, Robbie, and do what you’re told. We’ll see you at lunchtime.”

Jennie held out her hand and Robbie scrambled down from his chair, “Good job he’s not shy,” she said quickly.

“Never heard of the word, according to his mother,” Nell replied, “now you take care on the beach, Jennie!”

“Oh I’ll not be going myself, one of my Staff will take him - they’re fighting it out for the privilege at the moment! Come on lad, let’s get along to Nancy Chester first, she’ll have some sun block so you can play without hurting your skin. Say goodbye to Auntie Nell, you’ll see her at lunch!”

Last edited by Lesley on Sun Jan 09, 2005 11:51 am; edited 1 time in total

#584: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Dec 27, 2004 2:26 pm

I'm glad the Mayor is 'child friendly'. I can imagine the staff fighting to look after him. He's so sweet!

Thank you Lesley.

#585: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Mon Dec 27, 2004 7:51 pm

Quote:

let’s get along to Nancy Chester first, she’ll have some sun block so you can play without hurting your skin

Lesley, you did say there would be something to show they're being careful of the sun, thank you 'cos we don't want Cherry thinking Hilda & Nell would let him get burnt. Smile

And I'm glad the mayor understood!

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

Posted: Tue Dec 28, 2004 12:02 am

In the Managing Directors Office, in the Real Chalet School Industries building, just before lunch, there was a telephone call. Madge Russell was on the phone for some thirty minutes. She was still on the phone when, at midday, her sister appeared for a chat. When she had finished she replaced the receiver and smiled across at Joey,

“Do you know who that was?”

“At a guess, considering that you said ‘goodbye Hilda’ I’d have to say it was Hilda Annersley calling to update you about something to do with the School.”

Madge looked a little peeved that her sister had guessed, “It could have been another Hilda,” she said, almost sulkily.

“We don’t know any other Hilda,” Joey said quickly.

Madge thought for a moment, “Well there is that,” she conceded reluctantly.

“So what did Hilda have to say?”

“The local Mayor has agreed with their plans to have a local charity as beneficiary for their charity weeks next term. It’s likely to be split between two charities, one for a local hospice and the other for a children’s home. And the Mayor and local dignitaries from both charities will be invited to the Carol Concert and the nativity Play the Kindergarten are putting on.”

“What about the Pantomime?”

Madge shook her head, “Hilda said that was a strictly in-house affair.” She looked across at her sister and smiled, “But we’re invited! I must admit to being intrigued - Hilda refused to give me any ideas about the parts she or Nell were playing!”

“No one will tell me either!” Joey complained, “I even tried to pump Ros Moore when I visited her yesterday, but she wouldn’t say a word.”

“How is she?”

“Doing well, getting about on those crutches pretty quickly, she’s hoping that her fiancé will be discharged in the next week or so. She asked me to thank you for the flowers, by the way.”

Madge nodded, “I’ll try and get over to see her in the next day or two,” she looked at her watch, “Neil’s late, I thought you said it was a midday meeting?”

“I did,” Joey began, “he must have been held up or something.”

A few minutes later Neil Hillier appeared, he carried a large file of papers. After settling in seats around the table in Madge’s office he glanced round at the sisters,

“I’ve some good and some not so good news,” he began. “Now the good news is, your appeal to the shareholders seems to have had some effect. Any spare shares that go onto the market are being quickly snapped up by shareholders other than this conglomerate. They have been stuck at just below 26% of the entire stock for the last ten days, with no signs that they can easily increase. As it stands they cannot perform a hostile takeover.”

“Then we’ve won?” This from Joey.

Hillier shook his head, “Not exactly,” he said, “We’ve stopped them, for now, but we have an almost certainly hostile group owning more than one quarter of our shares. And with a huge amount of voting stock, should you need to put things to a vote. Plus if anyone relaxes their guard…”

“Oh but everyone will be wary of this company now!” Joey interrupted.

Neil nodded, “Yes, but if they were smart, and there’s no reason to think otherwise, they would set up little dummy buyers, small companies or individuals, on first checking they seem fine, then, suddenly, will be revealed as part of the conglomerate - but by the time we realise it, it’ll be too late.”

“So this is only a stopgap then?” Madge sounded dismayed, “But what can we do?”

“Try and discover the person or people behind it.” Neil Hillier replied, “Until we speak to them direct, we cannot be certain that any agreement we make will be honoured.”

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

Posted: Tue Dec 28, 2004 12:58 am

Ohhh. The plot thickens. So glad you haven't posted much in the last few days. I was really concerned about how much reading I was going to have to do! Hope you got lots of lovely books for Christmas Lesley,but none so good that you want to read instead of post!

#588: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Dec 28, 2004 9:16 am

*Wonders if Nell and Kathy have found anything out yet? *

Thanks, Lesley.

#589: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Tue Dec 28, 2004 11:39 am

Love the interaction between Madge & Joey - very sisterly.

#590: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Tue Dec 28, 2004 3:21 pm

*g* at the Mayor - glad he was 'child-friendly'! Very Happy

Had forgotten all about the takover bid with Cherry's court case going on Shocked

Here's hoping Nell and Kathy have managed to digup some info!

Thanks Lesley Very Happy

#591: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Tue Dec 28, 2004 3:49 pm

I've finally caught up! Thank you Lesley! Kiss

So nice to read it all through without having to wait for what happens next Laughing

So, when's the next bit? Wink

#592: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Tue Dec 28, 2004 8:56 pm

Thanks Lesley. The plot gets more and more intriguing

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

Posted: Tue Dec 28, 2004 9:44 pm

Had forgotten all about the pantomime Embarassed

Really looking forward to it now Very Happy

thank you Lesley for all your hard work

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

Posted: Tue Dec 28, 2004 9:45 pm

Thank you Lesley! That was wonderful!

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

Posted: Tue Dec 28, 2004 9:59 pm

Thank you Lesley! *thinks Robbie is utterly adorable* Wink

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

Posted: Tue Dec 28, 2004 10:55 pm

Thanks Lesley!

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

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 12:06 am

Robbie appeared to settle in well, and Miss Annersley and Miss Wilson were able to devise a simple routine for him, ensuring that one of them be there first thing in the morning and after Tea in the afternoon/evening. The other was, of course, covering their duties for the School. Robbie was a very happy little soul who had taken to both of them straight away - possibly the fact that they had been introduced by his mother helped. On the Thursday evening, just before he was about to go to bed, there was a phone call to the cottage. Robbie’s face when he was able to speak to Cherry on the phone was a picture!

Later that evening, after Robbie had finally settled for the night, there was another telephone call. Miss Annersley answered the call and spent some time speaking. When she had finished she turned to her partner.

“That was the Blakes, they were ringing to arrange a time to deliver Robbie’s belongings and to see Robbie.”

“So I gathered,” Miss Wilson’s tone was somewhat grim, “and you’ve said it was alright?”

The Head looked slightly worried, “Yes Nell, that was always my intention, you heard all that was decided in the courtroom.”

“Yes, but I wondered if you meant to honour the agreement, whether you would have felt that their actions were unforgivable.” A rueful smile, “I should have guessed, I’ve known you long enough, you will always be able to forgive your enemies, won’t you?”

Hilda Annersley sat silent for a time, when she did speak it was with a very quiet tone, even for her, “I’m sorry Nell, I know it sometimes exasperates you. But I find it very difficult to hold on to hatred. Most people have a mixture of good and bad within them….”

“I know, and you always see the good.” Nell interrupted with a smile, “It’s OK, I suppose Robbie should see the Blakes anyway, it’ll only confuse him otherwise and they looked after him well. Just don’t expect me to be too friendly with them!”

Hilda smiled, then her face darkened slightly, “It’s not completely true, you know. That I always forgive my enemies. There is one I cannot forgive.”

Nell looked across at her friend thoughtfully, “Now I wonder?” she said softly, “It wasn’t Gwynneth Lloyd, I know you said you couldn’t forgive her back in March, but I don’t think that was strictly true, I think that it was your sense of justice that left her in the asylum, rather than help her be transferred to prison. But I think you had forgiven her regardless. Am I right?”

Hilda inclined her head slightly, “And it is not Janet McRae, Nell, despite all she put you through. I can feel desperately sorry for her, but cannot, now, hate her.”

Nell smiled, “Even though you came close at the time, Hilda! But no. I didn’t think it would be Janet. To hate someone for their deeds, you have to first know that they were aware that what they were doing was wrong. She was not. Then it has to be Elinor.”

Hilda nodded, and kept her head inclined to the floor, “More than anything, Nell, because of what certain of her actions forced me to do. I don’t know that I will ever be able to forgive that.”

Nell walked across and gave her friend a quick hug, “I should hope not,” she said brusquely, “That woman deserves neither our forgiveness nor our pity. She knew right from wrong, she knew what she was doing…”

She was stopped from continuing when a cry came from upstairs, “Auntie Hilda, Auntie Nell, my bed is all wet!”

The two women looked at each other, the serious mood completely shattered, Nell grinned, “We can toss for it Hilda?”

Hilda nodded and Nell retrieved a coin from her pocket, “Heads you go, Hilda, tails I go.” She flipped the coin, it landed heads up. “Sorry Hilda, you’ve got to go!”

Hilda nodded and got out of the chair, at the door she looked back, “If I discover that is a two-headed coin, Nell Wilson, you are in serious trouble!”

“You won’t.”

“I won’t what?”

“You won’t discover it!”

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

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 12:11 am

Love that exchange at the end of a very thoughtful bit.

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

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 12:13 am

Just hope they don't leave Robbie alone with the Blakes - armed bodyguards seem to be a good idea as far as I'm concerned

thankyou shiny Lesley

#600: Author: Lyanne, Location: Ipswich, England

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 12:43 am

Dawn said

Quote:

Just hope they don't leave Robbie alone with the Blakes - armed bodyguards seem to be a good idea as far as I'm concerned

Too right! & they'd better be frisked before coming any where near him!

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

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 2:14 am

LOL! Well done Nell! Wink

Perfect, Lesley, thank you Very Happy

*feeling slightly suspicious of Blakes and wanting to hammer

Elinor*

#602: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 8:19 am

I agree with Hilda but she's incredibly strong minded not to hate Matey or Janet!

I love the coin tossing!

I still wonder if the Blakes were put up to this by someone trying to make trouble for the school through Hilda.

I think having an armed guard on standby could be a good idea.

Thank you Lesley.

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

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 9:11 am

Lesley wrote:

Madge looked a little peeved that her sister had guessed, “It could have been another Hilda,” she said, almost sulkily.

“We don’t know any other Hilda,” Joey said quickly.

Yes we do! Hilda Jukes, who was in Va with Mary-Lou et al and was the heavy leapfrogger who squashed Nina Rutherford! <huge grin> (guess who's reading Genius and Fete?)

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

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 9:20 am

But she's not in Real Chalet School. tongue

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

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 9:25 am

Oh well I asked for that! Sorry Lesley!

memo to self: don't post comments regarding RCS characters' existence or lack thereof when Lesley's on the board - we might think because someone was a character she exists in RCS, but only Lesley really knows...

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

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 10:30 am

Thank you Lesley! Some lovelyy posts to catch up with and help me avoid work this morning!!! I loved Hilda and Nell playing with Robbie and Nell's coin tossing! Laughing

Am hoping we have managed to put enough of a stop on the hostile company to plan the next move.

#607: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 1:05 pm

at Nell and her coin

*thinking the Blakes might bear keeping an eye on*

Thanks Lesley Very Happy

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

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 1:17 pm

Sorry everyone -no new post - just to let you know I'm going away for New Year - will not be back until Saturday 1st January, so no more of this until then!

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYBODY!!!! Party

#609: Author: Kat, Location: Swansea

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 1:27 pm

Lesley! How can you do this to us?! bawling

*sulks*

Ah well, we'll just have to acquire some patience from somewhere I suppose! *Racks brain to think of nearest store to stock patience*

Have a happy new year Lesley - see you in 2005!

#610: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 1:56 pm

Happy New Year Lesley. Hope you have a good one and 'see' you in 2005! Very Happy

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

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 2:34 pm

happy New Year Lesley - hope you have a great time

but I didn't get any patience from Santa this year Confused

eta but I suppose we should just be glad we're not teetering on the brink of a massive Lesley speciality cliff Confused

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

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 2:42 pm

Have a happy new year, Lesley!! See you in 2005 Very Happy

#613: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 2:47 pm

Have a great break, Lesley. See you in the New Year.

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

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 3:10 pm

Happy New Year Lesley! Have a lovely break and I'll be expecting lots more when I get back here on the 4/5th!

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

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 4:18 pm

Thank you for a lovely post Lesley! Love the coin tossing!
But how are we going to survive until you come back???? Shocked

ETA Hope you have a lovely break though! Kiss

Last edited by Vikki on Wed Dec 29, 2004 4:50 pm; edited 1 time in total

#616: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 4:23 pm

Well I have Sugar staying with me so I'm sure we'll manage Very Happy

Vikki on the other hand might have to finally learn that little word that starts with 'p' and ends with 'e'....(thought I'd better add that, just in case Razz

)

Lots of lovely bits Lesley. Thank you.

#617: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 4:38 pm

yay for the lovely updates...

hurry back!!!
(not that i want to read more or anything!)

#618: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 4:42 pm

Have a great break, Lesley. Happy New Year and see you in 2005.

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

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 9:41 pm

Have a happy new year Lesley. Hope your break is a bit more peaceful than Hilda and Nell's. Laughing

#620: Author: Mihiri, Location: surrey england

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 10:10 pm

Happy New Year Lesley! Glad we haven't been left on too big a cliff!

#621: Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire

Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2004 10:46 pm

Thankyou for the updates, Lesley, and Happy New Year!

Will try to wait as patiently as I can...

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

Posted: Thu Dec 30, 2004 11:50 pm

Dawn wrote:

but I didn't get any patience from Santa this year Confused

Same here! Have a great New Year, Lesley!

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

Posted: Fri Dec 31, 2004 12:14 am

Me neither, but I did get enough chocolate to sink a small battleship so I'll leave some here for people to munch on....
Have a cracking New Year Lesley! And everyone else of course!!

#624: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Fri Dec 31, 2004 4:09 am

At long last I have managed to catch up on all of this. Too many proplems to read it post by post. At least I missed a lot of cliffs.

As usual a fantastic story Lesley, there is too much to pick out for individual comment but I have enjoyed every word.

at least now I should be able to keep up as we go along.

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

Posted: Fri Dec 31, 2004 8:34 pm

Lisa_T wrote:

Well I have Sugar staying with me so I'm sure we'll manage Very Happy

Vikki on the other hand might have to finally learn that little word that starts with 'p' and ends with 'e'....(thought I'd better add that, just in case Razz

)

Lots of lovely bits Lesley. Thank you.

Pie? Sounds good to me.

*Hands round the pies*

Just caught up Lesley, 'tis wonderful. Looking forward to more in the New Year.

JackieJ

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

Posted: Sat Jan 01, 2005 12:03 pm

Well I considered trying to be patient as a new years resolution........but it didn't last long.

Lesley, I hope you've had a nice relaxing time and enjoyed your new year.............but it is Saturday, 1st January now... Twisted Evil

So do we get more story yet?????

#627: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Jan 01, 2005 8:15 pm

Fast running out of patience, and I never had much to begin with!

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

Posted: Sat Jan 01, 2005 9:50 pm

Hello everyone! Have just spent the last three nights partying, eating and drinking Laughing

Hope you all had a good New Year - I did! Cheers

CONVERSATION IN CYBERSPACE

Nell
Your message sounded quite urgent, Kathy, have you discovered something?

Kathy_S
I’ve managed to discover what happened to some of the Jane’s, Jane Van Buren died in 1987, while Jane Markham got married in 1973, she’s now Jane Craig, proud grandmother, living in Houston.

Nell
Impressive, that cuts our suspects to two then. I’ve managed to narrow the field so that I’m pretty certain that the founder of this company is American and a woman. Haven’t been able to discover much more - oh except that the original name for the company was Phoenix Enterprises. Does that mean anything?

Kathy_S
Only Phoenix, Arizona, perhaps the woman is from there. I can check it out.

…

The following day, a Friday, saw a similar routine to the day before with regard to the Heads and Robbie. As it was a pleasant day he spent much of the morning on the beach with any of the Staff that were free. At lunchtime he sat with the Nursery Class, clearly happy at being able to sit with the other boys and girls. Hilda and Nell had introduced him to Carolyn Phillips and the Nursery Class and he had seen the classroom. Once classes were over for the day, at 4.30pm, the Kindergarten all had their main evening meal (the rest of the School had theirs at 6.30pm). That evening, as the Blakes would be visiting, Ruth Derwent said she would cover the evening and both Miss Annersley and Miss Wilson went across to the cottage with the little boy.

The visit by the Blakes went reasonably well, all things considered. They had brought with them all of Robbie’s clothes and toys, all packed neatly into a number of boxes and delivered to the door. In addition, Robbie had been happy to see them, running to kiss both of them before showing Auntie Marion and Uncle Jack his new bedroom and garden. Marion Blake, with tears in her eyes, cuddled Robbie for a long time, before the boy himself became bored and wriggled free. As she followed Robbie out to look at the garden, her husband looked toward Miss Annersley,

“I suppose you think we were very wrong, to try and do as we did?”

The Head looked across at the man, Jack Blake didn’t appear to have slept for some time, “What do you expect that I should think, Mr Blake?” she asked softly, “To attempt to steal another’s child? And someone with whom you had built up a solid rapport, someone that, you knew very well, was innocent of the crimes of which you accused her? Yes Mr Blake, I do believe you were wrong.”

The man shook his head, “You can’t understand how we felt. She could have other children, he was our last chance.”

“He was, and is, her son, Mr Blake.” Hilda replied softly, “Regardless of her crimes, she did not deserve to lose him.”

“And you had no right to try and force the issue.” The second comment came from Nell Wilson as she returned from watching Robbie out in the garden. In reply to her friend’s concerned glance she continued, “It’s OK, Hilda, John’s outside watching.” She turned back to the man, “That’s John Coates, our Head of Security, Mr Blake. You didn’t think we’d allow you to see Robbie unsupervised, did you?”

The man swallowed, “W-w-we wouldn’t have done anything, I swear!”

“Perhaps not, Mr Blake,” this from Hilda, “But we could take no chances.”

Very little more was said to either of the Blakes, they spent the next hour or so playing with Robbie in the garden. When it became time to leave they both said their farewells quickly, kissing Robbie goodbye and hugging him. Robbie, unaware of the undercurrents, hugged them back and saying innocently that as he had a new home and Aunties, he didn’t have to live with them anymore. Neither Hilda nor Nell felt that they could improve upon that remark.

Last edited by Lesley on Sun Jan 02, 2005 9:09 am; edited 2 times in total

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

Posted: Sat Jan 01, 2005 10:09 pm

Robbie's innocence fits in so well with Hilda and Nell even though they are anything but innocent.

Great to see more of this. Happy New year.

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

Posted: Sat Jan 01, 2005 10:36 pm

Great to see this back - glad you had a great break Lesley and hope you are totally refreshed and .........

ready to post and post and....

#631: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sat Jan 01, 2005 10:39 pm

Glad you had a good New Year Lesley. Very glad to see this back again.

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

Posted: Sat Jan 01, 2005 11:17 pm

That night, perhaps one in the morning, Nell Wilson was awake. She was sat up in bed with her bedside light on, ostensibly reading a book, though, if asked, she would have been unable to say what the book was about. Her quick ears had heard the sounds of a door opening and the bathroom door being opened, but she had said nothing. It was therefore a surprise when her bedroom door opened and a little voice called out,

“Auntie Nell, the toilet won’t work!”

Nell got out of bed and quickly followed Robbie back to the bathroom, she swiftly flushed the toilet and helped Robbie wash his hands. She then went to return him to his bed, but the little boy asked for a drink of milk. Nell looked at the lad, wondering if he was planning to play up, but he seemed to be thirsty.

“Alright, Robbie, come with me, downstairs. Don’t talk until we’re down there, I don’t want you waking Auntie Hilda.”

She took Robbie downstairs and deposited him on the sofa, placing a light throw rug over him. She then went and poured out two glasses of milk. She sat next to him and held out the glass, “Use two hands to hold it, Robbie, and take little sips.”

A little later, having drained the entire glass (he really had been thirsty!) he snuggled into Nell’s side, “I couldn’t sleep, Auntie Nell, I couldn’t sleep ‘cos I needed the toilet and a drink. Why couldn’t you sleep?”

Nell looked across at the little boy sharply before remembering that he had seen her bedroom light was on, she smiled slightly, “I had a bad dream, Robbie.” she said quietly.

Robbie nodded, “I had a bad dream before,” he said conspiratorially, “it was about a dragon.”

Nell cuddled him, “There are no dragons in this part of Australia.” she said with confidence.

“I know, Mummy told me, but it still woked me up. What was your dream?”

Nell didn’t say anything for a while, then, “It was about a lady called Janet.”

“Was she a nasty lady?”

“A little,”

“Did she make you cry?”

Nell smiled, “Not quite, but she did hurt me, here,” she pointed to her neck and head.

Robbie scrambled onto Nell’s lap, “I’ll kiss it better, Auntie Nell, then you can sleep.”

…

Saturday morning saw Hilda Annersley up early; as she was covering for the School that weekend, she intended to go across to her Study first thing to catch up on some work. That way she would have the afternoon reasonably free. She knew that Nell would be looking after Robbie and was quiet so as not to disturb either of them. She went into the kitchen to make a drink and, while the kettle was boiling, wandered into the lounge to draw back the curtains, intending to step out into the garden. Instead she stopped dead at the scene in front of her.

On the sofa, lying on her back, with her head on some cushions, was Nell. On top of her, with his head nestled just below hers, and his arms around her neck, lay Robbie. One of Nell’s arms was curled protectively around the little boy, they were both fast asleep. Hilda stood watching for some moments, then she pulled the light throw rug up to cover them both and walked back out. Closing the door quietly behind her, she switched off the kettle and walked across to the School. She could make a drink there, it would be less likely to disturb either of them.

#633: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Sat Jan 01, 2005 11:26 pm

Glad you had such a wonderful New Year Lesley and that you are so refreshed.

Nell is fabulous with Robbie. Those scenes are really lovely. I would have had John Coates and as many of the Security staff there as possible for the meeting with the Blakes!

Thank you.

#634: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sat Jan 01, 2005 11:36 pm

Welcome back, Lesley. Glad you had a good New Year.

I really thought the Blakes would admit to someone nasty putting them up to that court case! Wrong again Shocked

I loved the way Robbie took Nell's nightmares on a level with this own and kissed her better!

Still worrying about the takeover and urging Kathy and Nell to get a move on with the other two Janes!

#635: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Jan 02, 2005 1:33 pm

Glad you had a great time at New year, Lesley.

Thanks for two wonderful posts.

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

Posted: Sun Jan 02, 2005 5:40 pm

Aw. That's beautiful. I love Robbie, he's so real and so innocent and he brings out a great side of Nell and Hilda.

*still wibbling about the hostile takeover*

#637: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Jan 02, 2005 6:02 pm

I've decided to stop wibbling and eebling about it. The RCS always wins, so I'm putting my faith in Hilda and Nell.

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

Posted: Sun Jan 02, 2005 8:55 pm

In her Study, the Head worked steadily until a little before 8.30, when she decided to wander across to the dining room for some breakfast. The routine at the weekends was very informal, with only a buffet service on offer. In addition the tables were split into smaller groups rather than being designated for particular forms or Staff. Miss Annersley looked around and spotted Ruth Derwent and Rosalind Moore at one table and walked across to them, “May I join you, ladies?”

Ruth smiled, “Of course, I’ll grab some more coffee, Ros did you want any more?”

Rosalind nodded, “Thanks Ruth,” she looked across at the Head, “I gather it’s your weekend on, Hilda?”

“It is, I’ve been trying to catch up on some work. I’m afraid looking after young Robbie has meant both Nell and I have been neglecting our work shamefully!” Hilda smiled.

“I can’t believe that,” Rosalind smiled, she then twisted in her chair slightly and moved her right leg gingerly, “Every so often it just reminds me that it is there,” she explained, still smiling, though her face had paled somewhat.

“I’m not surprised,” Hilda responded, “It’s not quite two weeks since you injured yourself. Are you sure you should be up and about on it?”

Rosalind nodded, “I was ordered to ensure I exercise. My physiotherapist said I should be up and about, I was not to vegetate indoors. I’m glad I saw you Hilda, I wanted to ask you something, would it be alright for me to come back with you to your Study after breakfast? I’d rather not speak of business here.”

“Of course,” Hilda smiled, “Come back with me once I’ve finished eating.”

A short time later saw Miss Annersley, Miss Derwent and Miss Moore back in the Head’s Study. Miss Annersley looked across at the Geography Head, “What can I do for you, Rosalind?”

Rosalind Moore smiled slightly, “Well, it’s two things, really,” she began, “the first is, I think, going to be welcome. I want to return to work on Monday.”

The Head looked very surprised at this, “Are you sure, Rosalind, that will only be two weeks off, I expected you to be away from work until the new term at the earliest.”

“Well, if my job involved anything physical then I would be,” she said, “but I’ve not got any field trips arranged for this term anyway, and even if I did then Kathie could take them on. I’m perfectly capable of teaching while walking with crutches and I’m sure I’ll have no difficulty with any of the classes.”

Hilda smiled, “I would say that was guaranteed, Rosalind, there is nothing wrong with your voice, after all!”

“Yes, well,” Ros smiled, “the main reason, Hilda, is that I’m slowly going crazy, sat doing nothing - I mean, have you watched daytime TV?”

Both Hilda and Ruth laughed at the utter despair in the Geography Head’s voice, Hilda nodded, “Very well, Rosalind, you may return to work on Monday. I expect you to liase closely with Nancy Chester about your fitness to work, and speak to Rosalie about rearranging rooms so that you are on the ground floor. If you start to feel it is too much for you then I’m relying on you to let either myself or Nell know. I don’t want you doing too much too soon.”

Rosalind smiled, “Thanks Hilda, I appreciate it.” She took a deep breath then continued, “I’ve also got another request, but you might think it’s a bit of a cheek.”

“Well I’ll have to know what the request is before I can decide that!” Hilda smiled.

“Geoff will be well enough to be discharged on Monday, his Doctor has said he can’t go back to work until probably February, but that he might just as well be at home as taking up a hospital bed. The thing is, though…” she paused and her friend continued.

“The thing is, Hilda, that, of course, Geoff doesn’t have a home, not in Australia,” Ruth said clearly, “He did have a place he was renting when it was Kelly that was convalescing, but he needs to convalesce himself now. We did consider booking into a hotel, but wondered if…”

“If I would allow him to inhabit a room on-site?” Miss Annersley asked quietly.

Rosalind nodded, “I know it’s a cheek really, I mean, it’s not even as though we’re married yet or anything. But he’d pay the going rate, and it would be so much better, for him and for Kelly, if he were close.”

“And for you, Ros.” Ruth put in, the two friends both turned to look at the Head.

Miss Annersley thought for a moment, “Has Jennie confirmed that there is a spare room?” she asked.

“Yes, I spoke to her yesterday, one of the guest rooms would be fine.”

“What about meals? Remember, this is a School, he would not be able to attend meals in the main dining room.”

The two women looked at each other, consternation on both faces, “We hadn’t thought of that,” Ruth said, a worried expression on her face, “I suppose we could arrange a rota system, the building work in the Staff House is complete now, there is a fully equipped kitchen…” She stopped there as Miss Annersley held up her hand.

“No, I didn’t mean that, if he were to stay on-site, then all meals would be included, I meant solely that he would have to have them in his room. One of you would have to take them over.”

“Oh,” Rosalind said, “Well that wouldn’t be a problem, I’m sure that can be arranged. Would it be alright then, Hilda?”

The Head nodded, “Yes, liase with Jennie and Mollie about the room and the cost, I’ll email them both to confirm my approval.”

Last edited by Lesley on Sun Jan 02, 2005 9:21 pm; edited 1 time in total

#639: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Sun Jan 02, 2005 9:01 pm

oooh 3 lovely updates!

thank you, lesley!!!!

#640: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sun Jan 02, 2005 9:05 pm

Thank you Lesley, you are positively luminous!

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

Posted: Sun Jan 02, 2005 9:15 pm

Ooh lovely updates, thank you Lesley Very Happy

Good to see things coming together nicely for Geoff and Ros.

#642: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Jan 02, 2005 9:41 pm

I do love the way the RCS is so human! Letting Geoff stay in a guest room obviously makes sense but how many schools would make it so simple for him and Ros?

Great as ever Lesley.

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

Posted: Mon Jan 03, 2005 12:53 am

Glad you had a good New Year Lesley and thanks for some lovely writing

#644: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Mon Jan 03, 2005 1:54 am

I wish all bosses were as nice to their staff as Hilda. Glad they are not abandoning Geoff to an hotel.

Still wondering about the Jane's and the takeover though.

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

Posted: Mon Jan 03, 2005 3:00 pm

The morning went well; after dismissing both Ruth and Rosalind, Hilda Annersley returned to her work, she had barely started when there was a telephone call for her.

“Hello Hilda, Nell said I’d find you at your desk, you do know this is the weekend, don’t you?”

“Hello Rachael,” Hilda replied warmly, “I could say the same about you, you’re not working now are you?”

The Human Resources Manager responded quickly, “Oh, only a quick call, I’m on my way to the beach with Rob. Thought I’d call just to confirm that all appraisals need to be in by next weekend.”

Hilda nodded, “Yes, I hadn’t forgotten. I’ll have finished all my reports before the end of the weekend. As for the rest - I’ll send out a reminder via email to all Department Heads.”

“I didn’t think you’d forget, but just had to make sure.” Rachael replied, “I’ve heard that you and Nell have taken on another pupil!”

Hilda smiled, “We have, and I must admit, he has been taking up a lot of time. He is an adorable little boy, though I’m sure he has his own share of mischief, most children do!”

“Well you’d know better than most! Must go, Hilda, Rob’s calling. Speak to you in the week.” She rang off.

Miss Annersley returned to her work and, after a number of hours of effort, was able to lock both her desk and computer and wander back across to the cottage in time to prepare lunch. Alison, Louise and Carol had been invited for lunch that day Although the two friends retained their Guardianship over all the Prefects, they had a far closer affinity with the three named; this had developed due to their shared experiences whilst on holiday. It was at this time that the Head’s words about most children having their own share of mischief were proven correct.

As it was a warm day the meal was to be held outside, and, prior to eating, the three girls had been introduced to young Robbie. They had then spent the next hour or so playing in the garden, giggles from all of them loud enough to reach the Head who was preparing the meal inside. However, when she appeared to warn everyone that lunch would be served in ten minutes, one person at least, was not listening.

“Lunch is nearly ready,” Hilda Annersley’s voice, as ever, was low and soft. However everyone easily heard her. “Robbie, you need to wash your hands before eating.”

Robbie, playing with his toy cars, didn’t say anything, and continued to play. Nell Wilson, sat at the table, looked up, “I’ll get him, Hilda,” she stopped at a signal from the Head.

“Robbie, look at me, please.” Hilda’s voice remained soft but with a distinct bite to it.

Robbie looked across, “Don’t want to, want to play with cars.” He then turned his back on everyone.

“Robbie, do as you’re told, please, wash your hands and then sit up to the table,” the Head’s voice replied.

“Sha’n’t! You’re not my mummy!”

Hilda took a breath; her next words were delivered in a voice as cold as ice, “Robbie Elliott, come here now!”

Her words had a response, four people involuntarily shivered at them; unfortunately Robbie was not one of them!

“No!”

Last edited by Lesley on Mon Jan 03, 2005 3:14 pm; edited 1 time in total

#646: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Mon Jan 03, 2005 3:05 pm

Would someone like to warn Robbie that he's met his match?

Shiny as ever, Lesley. Razz

#647: Author: Josie, Location: London

Posted: Mon Jan 03, 2005 3:07 pm

Five lovely updates to catch up on - thanks Lesley Very Happy

Nell & Robbie and the nightmares was an adorable scene - very warm and fuzzy. Interested to see how Nell & HIlda are going to cope with this one now!!

Last edited by Josie on Mon Jan 03, 2005 3:38 pm; edited 1 time in total

#648: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Mon Jan 03, 2005 3:37 pm

LOL at the thought of someone not cringing at Hilda's 'icy' tones - even Princess Anne did!

#649: Author: Ella, Location: Staffordshire

Posted: Mon Jan 03, 2005 4:21 pm

Why am I always reading pages to catch up!? Rolling Eyes

*Makes mental note to attempt to be more organised and to keep up. Realises this is not very likely to happen and adds to "New Year Resolutions" pile*
Thank you for some lovely updates, Lesley, and belatedly Happy New Year everyone! Cheers

Looking forward to seeing how Hilda handles this one..........

#650: Author: francesn, Location: away with the faeries

Posted: Mon Jan 03, 2005 5:17 pm