The CBB :: View topic - Len's Oxford

#1: Len's Oxford Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 2:42 pm

Got bored waiting for dialup to open a page and this little idea popped into my head. I’m about to set the small sparkling purple leaf Exterminator on my office, but I think it’s too late.

*** *** ***

Len took in her surroundings with a sigh. This was the first time she’d ever felt so far from home. Even knowing that Con was just on the next staircase, suddenly, for the first time in her life, Len felt all alone.

She’d never had to live completely apart from all that she’d known before. She’d always had Mamma on hand. She’d always known most of the Staff on first name terms. She’d always had Con close to her.

But on their journey, Con had seemed distant. When Len tried to speak, Con just hushed her, nose deep in a book or her diary, or writing. More than that, as soon as they’d arrived at St Hilda’s, Con had taken up with a black girl from South London – horribly common, Len thought – and a Chinese girl, although she too sounded a Londoner. Len felt alone. None of her contemporaries were here. She knew there were some in the year above and two above in other colleges, but St Hilda’s was half a mile from any other college. It felt so remote! Not at all like Brasenose or Corpus Christi or the others in the city centre.

On their tour round, the guide was a second year student. She was studying engineering – a girl, studying engineering?! Len shook her head. And every second sentence concerned alcohol and parties and staying up late. Hardly a word was said about studying.

In the room above, someone switched on very loud music. It was that vulgar man, Elvis Presley. After her long and tiresome journey, Len decided to begin unpacking her trunk in this tiny hole of a room which would be home for the next year and then catch an early night.

#2: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 2:44 pm

*** *** ***

Len sighed and looked at her watch. One-thirty. One-thirty and that music was still going on. She’d gone over to Con’s room for a bit of sympathy and a cup of coffee, but found the door locked and a suspicious silence form the interior. Dejected and confused, she returned to her own room via the buttery. How could Con have finished unpacking already?

In the buttery, she spotted her sister talking animatedly to the two girls she’d latched onto so quickly. Len squeezed in beside them, and found them to be Charity and Anna. She thought Anna an odd name for a Chinese girl, but wisely kept her own counsel. Nice enough to talk to, but they had a right funny outlook, Anna particularly. She was a – what did she say? – Buddhist. Len wished the religious education at the Chalet School had been wider and more informative.

Later, she heard the three girls chatting upstairs. The girl with the loud music was Charity, a buxom girl with frizzy hair. Len had never seen a girl like her before. That’s what comes from living such a sheltered life, she mused. And they still hadn’t gone to bed yet. Len wondered how her sister did it.

*** *** ***

Len had finally dropped off at four-ish. She managed to drag herself into the buttery just before nine, when it closed for breakfast. A mug of coffee was all she could manage. She looked like death warmed up. Len had never had trouble sleeping and was used to getting eight hours’ sleep regularly.

Suddenly, Len realised she was supposed to be at orientation in the Bodleian at ten. She gulped the rest of her coffee, scalding her throat as she did so, and ran up to her room. Pausing only to grab notebook, pen and purse and throw them in her cloth bag, Len ran back out and towards the bus stop. There was the bus. Leaving. Without her. Len sighed and sat down. There were twenty minutes before another would arrive.

Belatedly, she decided to slip into the porter’s office and ask if there was any post. Highly unlikely, she thought, but best to get into a routine anyway.

Len was surprised to find a letter waiting for her. She had a parcel as well, but she couldn’t get that until she had her matriculation card from the university and her college identification card, too. The latter she would get that evening. The former, today. Today! Mild panic set in as Len realised she didn’t have any proof of identity on her. She needed her Advanced certificates and her birth certificate to register. Len swore. She didn’t often swear, in fact hardly ever, but she’d heard Father use it several years ago, in a crash involving Minnie, and more recently, Steve had taken to it, provided Mother wasn’t around to be scandalised. And this was one situation which definitely merited the word.

Back up to her room, Len found the documents in her night bag and ran out again. This time, she just managed to catch the bus. She sat down, breathless. What a morning! And it was still only nine thirty!

*** *** ***

#3: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 2:45 pm

Len joined those on her course, also in St Hilda’s, in the foyer to the Bodleian. Just when she began to speak to a blonde-haired girl who sounded Irish, she spotted her sister, surrounded by her two friends from the previous day. They looked bright and fresh as a daisy. And they’d had the nine o’clock tour!

Con swept past, excited about her first day as a university student. She was amazed to find that the two girls she’d hit it off with were both also English freshers. Charity and Anna were fun! They weren’t the dried-up types she’d met at school, not by a long shot! Con reflected on her friendships at the Chalet School. None had really endured, and she wondered if this was because the people she knew were all bland and sheltered individuals. Anna was interesting from her point of view as well. She was Buddhist and from what Con had gathered, hers was a very different view to Con’s own. Charity “wasn’t anything” to quote herself. She’d been brought up in a Christian home, but never really believed all that stuff. She just went to Mass to keep her mother happy, and wasn’t going to bother here.

Where was Len? A thought flashed across Con’s mind as she realised for the first time that she’d barely seen her triplet since they had arrived at St. Hilda’s. No matter, she thought, they’d catch up later.

“Con!” The call sounded across the entrance. Con turned and waved at her sister. Gosh, Con thought, Len looks completely washed out – like she didn’t sleep all night. Con wondered if Len had been enjoying herself as much as she last night.

“Hi, Len. How’ve you been settling in? I meant to come over last night, but time got away from me. Let’s catch up tonight – Anna and Charity have spotted a pub near college, and we can natter there.”

“Yeah, that’d be good, Con. I didn’t sleep that well, to be honest. The other two girls on my level were out late, and I haven’t explored the other parts of my staircase yet. But I didn’t sleep that well either; the girl above me was playing Elvis and other popular records until well past three. Hopefully things will settle down, now that the thrill of first night has past.”

Con flushed slightly at her sister’s last comment. She’d been enjoying herself without a thought for her sister – or anyone else on Len and Charity’s staircase, for that matter – and had caused her sister to be ill, or certainly to not be far from illness. Len leaned closer. “Con, you’re wearing make-up!”

Con shifted slightly. “Erm, yes, I didn’t sleep too well myself last night. Charity suggested I put some foundation on to hide the shadows. And you’ve got to agree, it works! Not that I’m going to make a habit of it, by any means! So, later? I’ve got to go and register, then find all the folks from other colleges who are doing English too. We’ve got all our introductory stuff today and then nothing until term which, of course, starts with Matric on Monday.”

“I look forward to it. What time – seven? Gives us time to enjoy dinner, too. Lucky you, having everything at once! I’ve got to be in today, tomorrow and Friday. Different lectures at different times, you know. Enjoy exploring Oxford!”

With that, Len hurried over to her library tour group, who were crowding over towards the middle of the foyer where their guide was beckoning them.

*** *** ***

#4: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 3:00 pm

Keep listening to that bunny! This is good! Poor Len, I don't think that the noise will get any less tonight either!

#5: Author: Abi, Location: Alton, Hants

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 3:09 pm

Kirsty this is a great start - don't you dare stop it now! I want to see how Len copes, and what Con gets up to etc etc.

#6: Author: Polly, Location: Essex

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 3:38 pm

Oh Wow, Kirsty! I loved it! More please. Do not set the PB traps. Feed it lots!!!!!! Very Happy

#7: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 3:38 pm

So do I - don't you dare set up that PB exterminator, and remember what you were saying about unfinished drabbles on your other thread!

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

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 4:32 pm

Loving every minute : be nice to the bunny!

#9: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 4:33 pm

Yay a Maynard is rebelling! Hope Con provides lots of shocks!
Will Len ever loosen up? But maybe she misses Reg...
More soon please!

#10: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 5:49 pm

this is really good. It's interesting that Con is proving more open (and organised) than Len.

I wonder what it will take to bring Len into line with the modern girls.

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

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 5:57 pm

Brilliant

It's interesting to see Con being the one to make friends and Len finding it hard! I feel sorry for her though, I found coming to uni strange enough and I didn't have a CS type background.

#12: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 6:34 pm

I agree that this role reversal is great! I just hope Con doesn't being to feel guilty about abandoning her work and her sister, and that Len doesn't get nasty!

#13: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 7:08 pm

This is good! Do go on- I'm feeling very sorry for Len. When I went from a small boarding school where I knew everyone and everyone knew me to uni I hated it at first, and it was only thanks to my lovely support officer that i was able to make any friends. Otherwise, I'd have been very much like Len.
Besides, next to Hilda Annersley, Len is pretty much my favourite character!!!

#14: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 7:08 pm

Wow! Good Stuff!
More please!

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

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 7:17 pm

Excellent - really interesting take on how Len and Con would cope.

Want more please!

#16: Author: ali, Location: medway, kent

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 7:27 pm

Your bunny is seriously good. Keep listening. I love Con she's one of my favourites and like the way your portraying her here.

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

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 8:40 pm

Love your bunny Kirsty.

Do tell us more of this tale, it's such a good look at how they deal with the situation in dofferent ways.

#18: Author: catherine, Location: York

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 8:54 pm

Please don't kill off your bunny, Kirsty! This looks really good!

#19: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Wed Feb 04, 2004 10:20 pm

THis looks like it will be great. Please don't call in the exterminator!!

#20: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 4:12 am

*makes up "Save the Bunny" placards*

#21: Author: Tassie_Ellen, Location: Tasmania, Australia

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 6:55 am

*takes a placard from KB's file and begins walking in a circle outside Kirsty's office door, chanting loudly*

#22: Author: Kathryn, Location: Melbourne

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 7:17 am

*joins the placard-waving throng*

#23: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 7:23 am

*hurriedly makes more, as they seem to be popular*

#24: Author: Kathryn, Location: Melbourne

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 8:48 am

There's only three of us at the moment! Hopefully more will join to use your new placards.

#25: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 8:49 am

Let me have one too, please!

#26: Author: Abi, Location: Alton, Hants

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 10:20 am

*comes along wearing a "We Love the Bunny" T-shirt and takes a placard*

#27: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 10:31 am

Have you got one for me? thanks!

#28: Author: Caroline OSullivan, Location: Reading, Berkshire, UK

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 10:42 am

May I have a placard too KB? Thanks.

Sends carrots to Kirsty's PB together with a tent in case she sends him out in the rain Rolling Eyes

#29: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 2:24 pm

*marches over with several megaphones to join in the chanting!*

#30: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 4:09 pm

*wonders if Kirsty has got the message yet*

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

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 4:22 pm

*is afraid we may have scared her off*

*chants very quietly*

#32: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 4:25 pm

Good point, Sarah. Kirsty, we love you and your bunny. Please come back!

#33: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 10:15 pm

*very quitely, so as not to frighten the PB, sits down to await the next installment.

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

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 10:26 pm

Please post more story!! *Pleading smilie*

#35: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Leeds

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 10:37 pm

Why isn't there a pleading smiley? Please post more story. Very Happy

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

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 11:09 pm

KB wrote:

*makes up "Save the Bunny" placards*

Is this the same KB who had a whole stock of dead bunnies yesterday - which she was planning to use in murderous fashion, moreover?!

#37: Author: Polly, Location: Essex

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 11:38 pm

*whispers through a megaphone?!!!!

*
More more more please!

#38: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 1:27 am

Lovely story, can't wait for more.

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

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 3:59 am

Kirsty, this is inspired!!! I hope there's lots more to follow soon!!!

#40: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 7:21 am

Catherine_B wrote:

KB wrote:

*makes up "Save the Bunny" placards*

Is this the same KB who had a whole stock of dead bunnies yesterday - which she was planning to use in murderous fashion, moreover?!

That was then and there, this is here and now. Wink

#41: Author: Abi, Location: Alton, Hants

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 10:02 am

Where are you Kirsty?

*chants in a whisper through the keyhole*

#42: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 4:07 pm

I haven't written anymore yet...... I've been working! I'll try and do some more this weekend (in between putting up shelves and books on the shelves and drabbles CDs!!!)

*sits back and enjoys the frustrated noises* Laughing

#43: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Leeds

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 4:22 pm

*feels Kirsty is very cruel to enjoy the frustrated noises*

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

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 4:22 pm

Now I'm torn between throwing cushions at you for being so annoying and tying you to your computer chair until you produce more.... Maybe I'll just chant extra loudly!

piano

#45: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 4:44 pm

Sarah_K wrote:

Now I'm torn between throwing cushions at you for being so annoying and tying you to your computer chair until you produce more.... Maybe I'll just chant extra loudly!

piano

*cackles maniacally* *decides this is a BAD IDEA as the men in white coats look interested*

I won't be ABLE to post any more over the weekend, no access y'see, but there *might* be a chunk of posting on Monday (but it might be Tuesday; installing a new computer on Monday hopefully *crosses fingers*)

Laughing

#46: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 6:28 pm

*hopes the men in white coats hurl you into a little padded room with only a computer* Evil or Very Mad

#47: Author: Nicci, Location: UK

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 6:36 pm

I was really intrigued after reading those first posts. It'll be interesting seeing how Len and Con continue *privately rooting for Con being allowed to act normally for once instead of constantly moony*

Looking forward to more.

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

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 9:04 pm

*also waiting*

#49: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 9:06 pm

Looking forward to Monday or at worst Tuesday!

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

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 9:16 pm

Gah! Not another drabble with weekend's off?!?!

Shellfish - a bit like a shelf.

#51: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Leeds

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 10:47 pm

People who take weekends off really shouldn't be allowed to start drabbles.

#52: Author: Polly, Location: Essex

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 10:55 pm

Good luck with all the stuff Kirsty. Please don't keep us waiting too long!!!

#53: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 11:12 pm

Sarah_L wrote:

People who take weekends off really shouldn't be allowed to start drabbles.

But think of all we would have missed!
I can be patient, I can be patient, I can be patient,.....
looking forward to Monday/Tuesday

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

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 11:53 pm

*glares at Kirsty*
I suppose if you have no computer access then we'll have to let you off... for now Twisted Evil

#55: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2004 5:29 am

I'm not sure quite what else we can do!

#56: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Leeds

Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2004 12:20 pm

Ellie wrote:

Sarah_L wrote:

People who take weekends off really shouldn't be allowed to start drabbles.

But think of all we would have missed!
I can be patient, I can be patient, I can be patient,.....
looking forward to Monday/Tuesday

That's a good point, but on the other hand we wouldn't know what we'd missed, and so we wouldn't be on the edge of our seats waiting for Mondays.

#57: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2004 2:44 pm

Hope the installation of the new computer goes well, Kirsty, so we can have a lot more of this.

Hoping for an explanation of why Len assumed that University would just be an extension of home and school. It's good to see that Con has already made friends.

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

Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2004 5:00 pm

*hoping Kirsty is using her time productively!!* Wink

#59: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2004 5:40 pm

I'm sure she is!

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

Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2004 6:31 pm

She'd better be....... Twisted Evil

#61: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2004 6:38 pm

*hopes Kirsty takes heed*

#62: Author: Polly, Location: Essex

Posted: Sun Feb 08, 2004 10:52 pm

Yes, but if she feels threatened, may be she won;t post any more!!!! Sad

#63: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Mon Feb 09, 2004 6:34 am

As we can't win, it probably doesn't matter what we do!

#64: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 3:38 pm

awh, youse all love me! Very Happy

here's some more (to keep you busy whilst I finish a short Joey-and-Jack interregnum in the story)

*** *** ***

But Len’s mind wasn’t really on the tour. She’d agreed to Con’s proposal because she was too tired to argue, but she didn’t like the idea of going into a public house, of all places, to meet up with her sister. What were their rooms for, if not that? Len sighed.

It wasn’t just Con, either. She smiled wistfully as she thought of Reg. Reg. How she loved him! They’d had all summer together and now, she wouldn’t see her darling fiancé for nearly three months. Len felt as though a part of her was physically missing. They wandered through the great library and Len pretended to look interested. She saw the microfiche readers, and wondered how to work them – they were something new to her. And the reference system was so complex – the registers of cards were huge!

Eventually the tour came to an end. The guide had handed them all several pieces of paper to help them find their way around during the first few weeks of term. There was one more handout to collect. An exercise. Len groaned inwardly and cursed herself for not paying attention.

Registration was boring – long periods of standing in line and waiting. Eventually, matric card in hand, Len headed off for her meeting with her departmental personal tutor. It wasn’t for another half hour, but Len had already learned that these buildings were rabbit-warrens on a scale worse than her own beloved Chalet School.

Lucky for Len! She found her tutor two minutes before her appointment. Doctor Mélange was to help her throughout her time at university, whilst she would also have a collegiate personal tutor to help her with academic representation and college matters. She knocked on the door, a chilly feeling in her heart. Len berated herself for being so silly – it wasn’t as if she were in trouble!

“Entrez!” A crisp, clear voice, unmistakeably French, called out. Len came in quickly and, as a matter of course, curtsied. She looked up to see a bearded gentleman seated behind his desk, pipe in hand. He looked most amused at her little performance, and Len felt so stupid. She had to get out of school habits! Trouble was, these were habits of a lifetime – Len couldn’t remember knowing anything else.

“Please, sit. Now, Mary-”

“If you please, sir, it’s Len – I use my middle name of Helena, and Len is a short.”

The Doctor smiled, his eyes crinkling. Len warmed to him immediately. “Len it is. I see you have been educated in Switzerland, at a multi-lingual school. This is good – yes, very good. It will have prepared you for lectures permanently in French. Some folks arrive here having sat in French lessons twice a week and expect to manage in English all the time!” Len smiled, thinking of French days at the School – Miss Ferrars’ Geography lessons, Miss Annersley’s Scripture – and the advantage it now gave her.

“Now, the question of subjects. In this Michaelmas semester, you will study three subjects – French Language 1, French Literature 1 and Regional French. The first two are self-explanatory; the last is looking at ways in which, say, Canadian French differs to Parisian.”

This was boosting Len’s confidence more and more! What luck, to have such an idiomatic use of Canadian French! Although a little rusty, Len was sure she would do well here.

“Now, we come to the question of your fluency.”

“Oui, Monsieur le docteur. Alors, j’ai parlé le français tous les ans de ma vie – ma mère m’a aider, parce-qu’elle était á l’École de Chalet soi-même.” This came in such a rush that the professor, French as he was, almost gasped and had to compose himself quickly to catch what Len had said. “Okay, I think we’ve established you’re completely idiomatic, Len. All you life? That’s some dedication for a girl growing up in wartime and post-war England. And if I’m right, I can catch a twang of Montréal in there? Hmm, I thought so!” He smiled. “You shouldn’t have much problem with the first few weeks of Regional, then, but let’s see how you get on when we turn to Congolese French!” Len’s face remained unchanged, a trick she’d learned from her father, but inwardly she made a face. She was dismissed and she left the room a little wiser and a lot more relaxed over her course. Her experiences of arriving at St Hilda’s had knocked her confidence decidedly in various ways.

Len returned to St Hilda’s, sure in the knowledge that she’d be okay with French and certain that her German would be similar. If that was the case, it meant she could concentrate on getting used to the very different culture that was the University of Oxford.

*** *** ***

#65: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 3:50 pm

*** *** ***

Back in Switzerland, Joey sighed. Sat on the settee, her husband’s arms around her, she thought of her dear children, now further flung than ever. Margot had set off three weeks previously, since Edinburgh started back before Oxford. According to Jack, this was to be expected, along with shorter holidays – part of the privilege of being a medical student. She’d waved Len and Con off a week ago. Len seemed the more reluctant to go, which was strange. She said as much to Jack.

“But Joey, dearest, it’s to be expected. Why, Len has had to leave behind far more than Con – Reg, for starters. And then she’s always been a Somebody at the School, much more than Con. She was always Form Prefect or Second or somesuch role – and she’s always been a leader. Now, she’s all too aware that she’ll be one of many. In these ways, Con is able to leave behind much of what is here and start afresh. No, Jo,” as that lady began to protest, “I don’t mean that she won’t miss her family, or suddenly drop Ricki and Odette, but Len’s invested a lot into being the eldest, so much so that to an extent, she’s become old before her time. Con has always been happy to be middle of the pack and just to “be” – it’s her dreamy side that’s helped there. And she’ll find it so at Oxford. Len, having conditioned herself to a fine point, only knows one way. Con knows the role of being in the background, the other sister, the leader, the follower, the explorer. Look at how accepting she was of Ricki, more so than the others when it turned out the girl’s Quaker! And she’ll come across far more diversities at Oxford. Just see how the first term goes before you start worrying, my love. You were the same with Margot, and she seems to be having a fine time!” he finished, thinking of the letter which had arrived only that morning, probably omitting some of the details, if Jack’s own freshers’ week was anything to go by.

And so they sat, Jo with her sherry and Jack with his pipe, wondering what was happening to their eldest two daughters.

*** *** ***

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

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 3:59 pm

Well it's good to see Len feeling a little bit better, I guess the languages at the CS really will pay off for her! I like how understanding Jack is, and how you referenced Len's calm outward composure as being like Jack's- we forget that the girls take after him as well as Joey sometimes!

That was a lovely long bit too Very Happy

We like long bits *hints gently* Wink

#67: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 4:00 pm

Loved Jack's words of wisdome! This was well worth the wait! Do we get more soon?

#68: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 4:12 pm

Definitely worth the wait, I do so hope it isn't so long before the next part.
*Dropping gentle hints that more is always appreciated*

#69: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 4:15 pm

Quote:

Do we get more soon?

*points out this is all she has done so far since she's had a stinking cold, lots of shelves to put up, a new computer to install (hate bl**dy computers Screen of Death

) AND two Malay students to welcome for the week in addition to working*

*adds hurriedly that she's got a free evening tonight*

hopefully that's enough to save me a lynching Shocked

#70: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Leeds

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 4:19 pm

Thank you for the new posts Kirsty. Very Happy

#71: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 4:21 pm

Thank you for those two posts in the face of all that you've had to put up with this week.

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

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 4:30 pm

Sorry Kirsty
*replaces hints with a pile of huggles*
Thank you for posting that in the face of illness, shelves, computers etc!

#73: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 7:51 pm

Thanks for those posts - I'm really enjoying this drabble.

#74: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 8:10 pm

That stinking cold seems to be everywhere! I hope you feel better soon. Hope the shelves are up and filled with lovely CS books and that the computer is soon up and running.

#75: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 8:35 pm

*seconds all of this and wonders when the free evening starts? Laughing

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

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 8:47 pm

I so sympathise with Len - it sounds like my experience of uni, but without the benefits of the course advantage. I can see her taking longer to settle down, but ultimately being a lot happier, if she gets over herself, and because of the longer investment in being happy, won't want to leave. *grins* Will one of them come up against OICCU? I know they're usually less vociferous than CICCU, and DICCU but *grins*. I can see Con winding up at the John Wesley Society or something...

I'm thinking that Con might be about to come unstuck with the academic side of it - especially if Hilda and Madge were more old fashioned.

#77: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 9:41 pm

Good Stuff! Looking forward to hearing more!

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

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 10:43 pm

Great stuff Kirsty. Maybe the academic confidence will give Len a chance to relax a bit on the social side, especailly if that confidence is well founded.

Will we see Con again soon?

#79: Author: Dot, Location: Ireland

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 10:49 pm

Angel wrote:

OICCU? CICCU, and DICCU.

What do these stand for?

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

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 10:58 pm

Oxford, Cambridge and Durham Inter-Collegiate Christian Union

They can be very vicious, and very evangelical. At the time of Len being at college - well, my mother has some hair-raising tales to tell about OICCU and CICCU.

#81: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 1:48 am

Nice to see Len happier about her course. Hope she doesn't get too conceited though.

Love Jo and Jack's talk. Wonder if Jo felt like rushing off after them.

#82: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 7:57 am

I'm glad Jack is being so understanding - it makes a nice change! *g* And I hope Len shakes down.

#83: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 2:34 pm

*Points out she didn't mean for things to happen this way, but Len and Con won't BEHAVE and do what they're told! So please don't hate me for the turn things take... I still don't know what's next.*

*** *** ***

For Len, the day had gone well. She hadn’t met anyone particularly; she’d been too busy thinking of home for that, but she’d come to know parts of Oxford and her way around the Modern Languages section of the Arts Faculty and where to find the relevant section of the library, even if not exactly where everything was. Len chuckled – she’d often berated Con for mooning when she should have been paying attention, and now here she was, exactly the same! They seemed to have swapped roles completely. Well, good for Con to be coming out of her shell, and Len rather liked the contemplative side she’d discovered which didn’t require her to be mature and leader-y at the same time. As she got into St Hilda’s, she headed into the JCR, where the college cards were being issued. The girl in front looked as lost as she did, so Len took a leaf out of her sister’s book and began a conversation, trying desperately not to be domineering or sheep-doggy.

“Gosh, what a day! I feel like I’ve been through several kinds of whirlwind at once!” She smiled. “I’m Len.”

“Jennie. Pleased to meet you. I know what you mean. I’m doing French, and what a nightmare the Arts building is!”

“French? Why, but that’s what I’m doing! At least,” Len added thoughtfully, “that’s half of what I’m doing. I’m keeping up my German as well. Who’s your tutor? Mine’s Doctor Mélange, and he’s quite a peach, I must say!”

“He reminds me of the Professor in the Narnia books, sort of cuddly, but makes you pay attention and do what he wants. Melly is my tute, too. How fun!” Jennie replied. “D’you know, I was late today. Meant to be at the library tour, but overslept completely – some joker thought it a good idea to play music till goodness knows when. Girl below me – I’m on staircase XII. I couldn’t get you to show me round, could I?”

Len grinned, her first smile since arriving which hadn’t been forced. “Curiouser and curiouser! I’m on XII too – except Charity’s above me.” Seeing Jennie’s puzzled look, she added, “that’s the girl with the music. She’s hooked up with my sister, as it happens. As for the library, I’m afraid I was in another world doing the tour. Oh, I was there in body, but not listening. We’ve got an assignment-” Len made a face –“due on the Thursday of second.”

Jennie groaned. “Oh well, at least we’ll be together at the bottom!” she laughed. “Not that I’m used to being bottom. Far from it – top of the class, usually. But then everyone here’s like that.”

“I guess so. Con was always top in English, me in Languages and Margot in Science – I guess we had quite a monopoly on class honours!”

“Con and Margot – friends of yours?”

“No.” Len grinned, pausing before the customary bombshell. “We’re triplets.”

“Triplets? Wow! I’ve never met triplets before! So, is one of them the sister you referred to?”

“Yep. Con. It’s so out of character for her – usually she’s moony and quiet, but things have changed so much.” Len sighed.

At that point, Jennie was called forward for her card, then Len. They agreed to meet up for dinner at the buttery, and to go out to the Flying Horse later, where Con had asked Len to meet her. Then they’d head to Jennie’s – Len reckoned it was better to be above the noise than below it – and have a good natter.

*** *** ***

#84: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 2:36 pm

*** *** ***

The two new friends enjoyed their dinner together, during which Len ascertained that Jennie had been at Cheltenham Ladies’ College and couldn’t believe how lax things were here. She’d always specialised in French and had decided that she wanted to interpret. Jennie’s mother had wanted her to stay at home and be presented, but Jennie herself would have none of it. Backed up by her father, she had come here to Oxford with the full intention of working in television or for an international company which could appreciate her abilities. Len shared about being in Switzerland and being the eldest in a long family. She yelped as she looked at her watch. “Goodness, it’s ten to seven! Do you have any idea where this pub is, Jennie?”

Jennie owned that she didn’t, so they raced down to the porter’s lodge to ask for directions. Five minutes later, they were entering a dingy, smoke-filled pub. Len couldn’t help a coughing fit, though she tried her hardest to conceal it. Even though her parents both smoked, as did many of her friends, she’d never got used to the way it enveloped you and filled every breath you took. Jennie pushed Len unceremoniously into a corner table.

“Hey! What on earth was that for?” Len spluttered, in between coughs.

“It’s less smoky in the corner, dope! Shall I find you sister? What’s she look like?”

“Couple of inches shorter than me, long curly hair in earphones, if I remember rightly, pale skin, darkest brown eyes you’ve ever seen. We’re blatantly sisters from our features too.”

“Okay, I’ll have a look around. What’s your poison? I’m having a port and lemon.”

Len’s eyebrows shot up. Not many women ordered port unless – but she shook herself for being so judgemental. “Just an orange juice for me, please.”

Jennie headed over to the bar and, once drinks were ordered, looked around the pub. She put down the drinks and headed over to the other side of the pub, reappearing a moment later with Con and her friends. What a change in Con! Len gaped as she saw her sister teeter over in heels she plainly wasn’t used to, a short skirt – Mamma would have a purple fit – violent red make up and – SHORT HAIR!

“Con!” It was all she could manage.

“Hey, Len. I see you’ve got a drink. Good. So, how’s tricks?”

“Well, I mean, they’re, um…” It was no good. “Con, all your beautiful hair! Why–”

“Because I was fed up to the back teeth with it, that’s why. It’s twenty times lighter this way.”

“But Con, you promised Mother you wouldn’t!”

“Oh, for goodness’ sake Len, grow UP! It’s MY hair, not Mother’s, and I can damn well do what I like with it. Besides, I looked ANCIENT with my hair done in those stupid earphones. And if Mum doesn’t like it, she’d better lump it, cos it’s too late now.” She calmly lit a cigarette.

This fresh cheek just wasn’t Con. “Con, what’s wrong? In two days, I feel like I don’t know you anymore. What’s happened?” Len tried to take a back seat, but Con flared up.

“You aren’t my mother, Len, you don’t have to be so damn responsible all the time! Just leave me alone. I’ve met people who are different, that’s all. I’m beginning to find me, instead of being constantly in your shadow, or Mother’s, or Auntie Madge’s. For the first time in my life I feel like a valid person myself.”

Len sighed. This had been a mistake. “I’m sorry you feel that way, Con. You know we never meant for you to fall under anyone’s shadow. And now, I have another appointment, so I’ll see you around. I’ll give your love to Mother.” On her utmost dignity, Len stood up and walked out of the door. Tears welled up inside her. What had happened to Con? Or was it her? What had gone wrong? They’d never had this problem before, never. Someone flung an arm around her.

“That took a lot of guts, Len. Oh, sweetheart, what’s wrong?” as a sob rose in Len’s throat. “Come on, let’s get you back to college, and you can tell me all about it over hot cocoa.” Jennie took her left hand in her own and guided a broken-hearted Len gently back to college.

*** *** ***

#85: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 2:37 pm

*** *** ***

Ensconced in Jennie’s comfy seat, cocoa in hand and blanket wrapped around her, Len poured her heart out. Jennie didn’t say a word, not even interrupting when Len stopped, wisely allowing Len her own time to get all this frustration out of her system.

Len concluded, saying, “I don’t know what I’ve done that has made Con feel so strongly against me. I never even knew Con HAD this side to her. Was I really so blind, so wrapped up in my own affairs? Oh, Jennie,” she sobbed, “I just want things back to the way they were. To when I knew what was going on, where I was headed, knew everyone and was comfortable with them.”

Silence reigned for a moment. “Why?”

“Because I knew where I was going. I was comfortable. I knew my position – in the family, in School. I was important. Con needed me. And now – now it seems like she hates me! She’s a part of me, Jennie, she really is. We’re not just sisters, we’re triplets. I feel a part of me is torn away. I wish I could just talk to Mamma or to Auntie Hilda right now – or to Reg,” she added, with a look at the discreet solitaire band on her finger. “They’d understand. Oh, I’m sorry. I’m dumping all this on you, someone I only met this afternoon!”

Jennie looked at Len pensively. She paused, collecting her thoughts before answering. “But would they, Len?”

“Would they what?” asked Len, confused.

“Understand. Your Mum has always been surrounded by school and never not known the world you knew. Your Auntie – well, she’s of a different era. She may have come here, but that was more than thirty years ago! And Reg – well, Reg is a man. No offence to him, but he won’t understand quite the same way. Men’s brains work differently to women’s. Men are practical – you tell them your problem, they’ll give you a solution. Women, on the other hand, are more emotional creatures. They’ll let you pour out your heart’s troubles and leave you to work out a solution yourself – which is the only way it’ll work out.

“Len, I know this is going to be hard. First term away is always hard. Most girls go through it at twelve, when they first go away to boarding school. You’ve come to it later, and with more of a bang, because of the size of the university. But I will be here for you. I will support you. And at the end of the day, you need to concentrate on number one. Con, you mother, Reg – all of them, important as they are, come way after you. Otherwise, you’ll leave this place without your sanity, much less a degree! You have to make some decisions, Len.

“And there are people here who can help you do that. At the end of the day, your tutor is here for that reason. Not to be an agony aunt, but, if you’re falling behind in classes due to personal troubles, tell her. And see the chaplain. Get involved. Father Robert is lovely – I went to see Chris, who’s the Anglican chaplain, and Father Robert was there too. Len, trust in God. It isn’t easy to do. I know that full well – it’s easy enough to pay lip service to our faith, but the real test comes in times like these. Len, can you really trust God? Remember what He said to Joshua? He knows the plans He has for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you – or words to that effect. Oh, come here,” as Len’s body heaved with sobs, “oh, Len, just let it all out, hon.” They sat there a long time, Jennie gently rocking Len as she let out all the frustration and grief of the last few days.

*** *** ***

#86: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 2:38 pm

I'm glad to see that Len has made one friend at least, and it appears as though she's going to cope with her studies without too many problems.
I'm really interested in seeing what happens to her (and Con) next.

#87: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 2:38 pm

*** *** ***

Eventually, the tears had ceased. Len gratefully accepted the glass of water offered to her and, feeling less faint but nevertheless extremely tired, returned to her room, accompanied by Jennie to make sure she was okay. They said goodbye when they reached Len’s door with a hug. “All right, darling, I’ll see you in the morning,” said Jennie. As she turned, she faced a furious-looking Con.

“What in the name of all that is sacred do you think you’re doing?” she asked, her voice quivering under the strain to keep from shouting. “Not only do you reject me, Len, now Reg as well? And as for you,” she cried, rounding on Jennie, “you adulterating, scheming little witch, are you proud of yourself?!”

Len looked completely bewildered. What was Con on about? But Jennie wasn’t as naïve as Len. She remained calm, reminding Con of the small matter of Len’s engagement and pushing her own sapphire under Con’s nose. “So you see, it isn’t what your disgusting mind thinks!” She was almost shouting in her fury. “I may be a hugging person, I may use endearments, but that doesn’t automatically make me gay, for God’s sakes, much less your sister! I don’t know you from Eve, but from what Len’s told me, you’ve changed out of all recognition. This is the exact time you should be supporting your sister, not destroying what little there is that still links her to home!” With that, she turned and disappeared up the stairs. A door slammed.

A stunned Con looked completely back-to-front. She noticed that Len had shut her door in the middle of the tirade. Putting her ear to the door, she could hear a quiet sobbing on the far side of the room. She knocked on the door, devastated at what she’d caused. “Len? Len, it’s Con, open the door, please, Len I’m sorry, Len?” No response. Con turned, horrified at this turn in events. Slowly she headed back to her room. She sat down, took some paper and her fountain pen, and began to write. And write and write.

*** *** ***

#88: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 2:43 pm

Do you see what I mean about characters not behaving? I so totally didn't see any of that coming! Now I'm struggling over Con's writing as much as she is!

I'd envisaged Con - bit of a rebel, but manages okay, Len, minor dilemma, goes home at Christmas pensive, things sort themselves out - but it ain't going that way!

And between Len and Jennie, they're taking on a lot of my characteristics (apart from being engaged ROFL

)

All suggestions are gratefully received and small sparkling purple leaf-feeders rewarded with parts! Never let it be said I exploit my public Very Happy

#89: Author: Abi, Location: Alton, Hants

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 3:00 pm

Kirsty, this is reeeeeally good! Freedom is going to Con's head isn't it? But I hope things sort out for Len, they seem to be getting out of her control rather!

*feeds PBs and calls for more*

#90: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 3:35 pm

Kirsty, don't worry. Your characters are real, that's why they've run away with you! Let them speak, it's very good.

#91: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 3:39 pm

Kirsty, as Pat said, these characters are really living and breathing! See if they can give you more ideas. Change the point of view from which you see the story - from Con's POV, from Jennie's, etc., find any holes that need background for and provide it. Trust me, the story is obviously there. You just need to find it.

I have to confess that I thought Jennie was gay and I was wondering how Len would react if and when she realised it. I'm glad she's not though. That would make this story too murky.

#92: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Leeds

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 4:59 pm

Wow, so many posts Kirsty. Thank you. Very Happy

#93: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 5:31 pm

Wow that was great Kirsty - your characters are really true to life.

Well, Con hasn't changed completely - she's still blurting out whatever comes into her head Wink

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

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 6:34 pm

This is great Kirsty, and I think I would echo the advice to look at things from each character's point of view, that will give each character chance to tell you their bit of the story. Your characters are very realistic and living, so just listen to them and they will tell you what happens next.

I think that Con is likely to sew a few 'wild oats', and would be interested to see the effect that has on her, wether she eventually conforms, or wether it changes her outlook for good.

Len will settle easier, but be rather unsocable, except maybe in a tight circle of friends. I wonder about Jennie, what gave Con that idea, I wouldn't have thought with Con's upbringing it would be the first thing that came to her mind, has someone else said things?

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

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 7:10 pm

This is stunning. So true to life - I was engaged when I went back to uni, and found me a 'Jennie' in my present flatmate (and her fiance). It split, she was there.

Let them flow - it's wondeful.

#96: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 7:13 pm

Kirsty, this is superb!!! More please and soon, whenever you can! I think this could tie in quite nicely with Catherine's Margot drabble, actually.

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

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 8:06 pm

Wow Kirsty! Thanks for giving us such a long bit, and such a good one. I'll echo what the others have said, they sound like living breathing people so let them have their say, you're writing this brilliantly.

I'm so glad Len's found Jennie, she seems sensible and affectionate, just what Len needs. I'm very worried about Con's friends though. Complete rebellion isn't entirely surprising now she's away from the controlling nature of her mother but still it's not good.

#98: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 8:09 pm

Excellent, thank you

#99: Author: Polly, Location: Essex

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 10:59 pm

That was fantastic Kirsty. Really really looking forward to the next installment!!!! Very Happy

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

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 11:13 pm

Kirsty, i don't know what to say! That was marvellous!! They're so real!!
More soon please!!!

#101: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 1:56 am

Kirsty that was fantastic - can see Len coming out better thn Con in the end.

#102: Author: Tassie_Ellen, Location: Tasmania, Australia

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 8:48 am

Kirsty, the wait was worth it for such great story! I swear, I just don't know how you all do it - but am I glad you do Very Happy

Ellen *sending treats for the bunnies and an extra-special thank-you huggle for Kirsty*

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

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 10:42 am

More please! I think it's great!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

#104: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 11:25 am

people like this! Ellen, I don't know how I do it either. Usually I can't make something work, but maybe that's it - I try and make it work. Here, I've just given my characters pretty well free rein.

Con's still being difficult over this letter though!

And I think Julia (my PB) ran away scared when the weirdo on the tube approached - I was writing at the time grrr... both Julia and me are in dire need of Maryland cookies, tim tams and mint slices! Please provide (can't afford them at the Australian shop in London!)

#105: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 11:33 am

*sends virtual Tim Tams and mint slices, as it's the best I can do from this distance*

#106: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 11:54 am

This is sooooo good Kirsty. It really sounds as if it is written from the heart.

#107: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 3:34 pm

*** *** ***

“Len,
my sister, my triplet, my friend. I’m sorry. I’m sorry I caused you such pain just now. Len – I, I don’t know what to say. How do I begin from what I assumed so wrongly?
“Let me tell you about how I saw you whilst we were growing up. Although only separated by half an hour, you’ve always naturally assumed leadership. To me, you’ve actually been an older sister, the way that all of us are to Felicity and the rest – shown us the way, always been ahead (sometimes been in higher forms than us!) and have always bee responsible when it comes to it. You’ve always been supportive. You’ve always been strong.
“When you got engaged to Reg, thrilled as I was, there was this doubt in my mind. We’ve grown up in an all-girls’ school, on an isolated Platz with few men around, and I wondered if you ewre accepting what you thought was love – I suppose I wasn’t sure if things would change when we saw the “real world”. And in many ways, that was because I was scared that it would turn out the same for me, and I want to feel free, not trapped. Not that – oh, this is all coming out wrong. Not that I think you WILL be trapped, but I can’t see it working for me. Okay, it worked for Mamma, but that doesn’t mean it’ll work for everyone. I’m a very free spirit. I want to fly on my own some time. Len, you seemed to think nothing would change when we went to Oxford. In some ways, I thought so too – although experiences and situations change, I was looking to you to be a leader, even a leader amongst nobodies.
“I’m ashamed to say I listened to the furtive whispers of people I barely know rather than the person I’ve been closest to for the last nineteen years of my life. I won’t say who, but they were way off base with Jennie. I was stupid not to see it – she’s obviously another Jane Carew where her language is concerned. If you could only see how much I mean this – I hope I haven’t done damage which can’t be remedied. You are the most wonderful, amazing person I have ever met, Len. That’s why I was so upset when I saw something that made you less than perfect. And even then, it was just like me. I thought I’d grown out of saying the first thing that comes into my head, after that whole affair with Ted and Emerence. And now, probably for the first time, I’ve seen the full-blown effect on you.
“I’ve been exploring being Con these last few days, rather than being ‘Jo Maynard’s daughter’ or ‘Len’s sister’. I have relied pretty hard on people who have more practice at being independent. Some of the things, I like. Many of them, I don’t like. I liked having the choice to have my hair this short – although I’d probably prefer it a little longer, it won’t take much time to get to where I want it to be. I like wearing make-up – but not the garish stuff Anna leant me. I like smoking – it relaxes me. I like being able to choose my clothes. But I don’t intend killing myself in those heels again or showing quite so much flesh! You know me, Len, you know my tastes. You know what a follower I am.
“Len, I swear, I will not make that mistake again. I’m writing to Jennie too – but I don’t know what room she is. Can you pop the enclosed under her door? I can’t believe I jumped to conclusions about her from one brief meeting. I’m sorry, Len. That’s all I can say: I’m sorry. Please will you forgive me?
“Your loving sister,
“Con.”

It sounded wooden and false, but Con had struggled with her pride and her shock to get this down on paper, and she wasn’t going to waste it! She wrote an apology to Jennie, regretting that she’d probably lost a potentially good friend. Jennie seemed chock full of common sense and caring. As she slipped the notes under Len’s door, dawn was rising. Con was thankful she wouldn’t have to get up that day and collapsed into bed.

*** *** ***

#108: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 3:51 pm

This is excelllent Kirsty, the characters are wonderful, full of life. I'm glad that Con has apologised for being tactless, and reassured Len that she still cares for her, though I don't think she needed to apologise foe her clothes etc, she does have the right to experiment, and as she says, find the real 'Con', but I can understand why she apologised, considering the way she looks up to Len and values her opinion. I hope Len accepts the letter in the right spirit.

#109: Author: Cazx, Location: Swansea/Bristol

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 4:01 pm

This is really interesting, can we have some more soon please? Very Happy

#110: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 4:08 pm

Yay for Con wanting to be her own woman! Glad she realises she was wrong about Jennie.

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

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 4:29 pm

Good on Con for apologising to both Len and Jennie, can't be an easy thing to do. Now will Len accept her slightly modified sister? Especially after those comments about Reg (which were pretty accurate really, lets find Len a nice guy at Oxford Very Happy

)

#112: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 4:34 pm

I think con is showing quite a lot of maturity. She's thought it through and is big enough to own that she was wrong in some ways but still able to insist on her right to experiment with new ways.

One wonders hows much of Len's supposed leadership was due to the support and reinforcement she got from Jo and the school.

#113: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 5:08 pm

Well, this is becoming very, very interesting, isn't it? I love the places you're taking Con - I think it's very necessary for her! To my mind, she's always been the 'youngest' of the triplets, and I hope this helps her to grow up!

#114: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 5:13 pm

Good for Con!
great story! Very Happy

#115: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 5:16 pm

Whoo, quite a letter from. I hope that both Len and Jennie can accept her apology.

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

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 7:11 pm

OOoh! Thank you Kirsty!!!

I'm glad Con has apologised, and I hope Len will accept the apology, and not lash out at her sister!

#117: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 8:23 pm

so do I *really worried about the Len-Con relationship now*

#118: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Leeds

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 8:36 pm

I hope Len realises Con is genuine. I'm sure she will, it's not like Len to be bitter.

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

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 9:31 pm

That was interesting. Look forward to Len and Jennies responses.

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

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 10:57 pm

Just caught up on this - Kirsty this is wonderful - your characters live! Please continue - wanting more! Smile

#121: Author: Polly, Location: Essex

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 12:00 am

Thanx Kirsty!! Con's letter was really good! More story please!! Very Happy

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

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 6:07 am

Kirsty this is wonderful. I totally agree that your characters are alive, you have really given them a depth and realism which is fantastic!
Thank you and looking forward to much more (when you can write it)!

#123: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 9:11 am

On such things are based family rifts. I hope Len has too much common sense than to let that happen.

#124: Author: pip_penguin, Location: Melbourne

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 9:52 am

Kirsty, this is fabulous!! I'm really enjoying where you are taking Len and Con, and also hope that Len has enough common sense to accept Con's apology.

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

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 7:49 am

Kirsty, please post more story - want to see Len's reaction!

#126: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 8:03 am

Is that a chant, Lesley? *join in, just in case*

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

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 1:05 pm

*Chanting*
*with accompianment*

drummer

#128: Author: Nicci, Location: UK

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 1:28 pm

Just read the latest post. Kirsty this seems all very realistic and is wonderfully written. Con might have felt her letter was wooden but it seemed to speak out to me.
Can't wait to read if Len and Con make up. Hope so, I think the two sisters could have a wicked time at uni if they did.

#129: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 3:49 pm

Kirsty, that was good, very realistic. Is there any more?

#130: Author: Kate, Location: Ireland

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 8:03 pm

I want MOOOOOORE! I am really enjoying this story. Pretty please? More???

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

Posted: Sun Feb 15, 2004 8:51 pm

*joins the chant*

#132: Author: Polly, Location: Essex

Posted: Mon Feb 16, 2004 12:14 am

*adds voice and a few instruments to the chant!*

piano

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

Posted: Mon Feb 16, 2004 12:32 am

I've just read this right through and now *joins in the chant* It's fantastic Very Happy

#134: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Mon Feb 16, 2004 8:44 am

Kirsty this is great. With Len's track record she's the type to forgive Con. They need to both go their own ways but set time aside for one another.

#135: Author: Abi, Location: Alton, Hants

Posted: Mon Feb 16, 2004 1:36 pm

Kirsty, I've juts cuaght up on this again, I loved the letter, it's so honest and open. I really hope Len and Jennie take it well.

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

Posted: Mon Feb 16, 2004 2:26 pm

I've just read this, and its brilliant.

I could imagine that both girls would have struggled to begin with, and its great to see them exploring different parts of their personality.

I've always wondered how they would have got on being away together, and whether Con, in particular, would have prefered to go to University away from her sisters.

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

Posted: Mon Feb 16, 2004 3:15 pm

*chants for more*

#138: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Mon Feb 16, 2004 4:26 pm

joins in chant but nice and loudly!

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

Posted: Mon Feb 16, 2004 4:34 pm

*awaiting more*

*contemplating singing why are we waiting*

*realises singing this would scare Kirsty off due to the lack of tune*

*decides to chant as normal*

*notes that this is finally my 100th post popper

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

Posted: Mon Feb 16, 2004 4:59 pm

Congrats Rachel Very Happy

*debates singing to her but does not want to appear too scary*

#141: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Mon Feb 16, 2004 6:43 pm

Congratulations, C_Rachel! Any chance of a party at the Brown Velveteen?

#142: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Mon Feb 16, 2004 7:51 pm

Is there any more drabble? said in a pathetic voice as I'm getting another cold.

#143: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Mon Feb 16, 2004 7:54 pm

Aw, Jennie! *sends huggles and Lemsip*

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

Posted: Mon Feb 16, 2004 7:59 pm

*disappearing off to start a party*

#145: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Tue Feb 17, 2004 11:14 am

awaiting more story - congrats Rachel.

#146: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Tue Feb 17, 2004 2:48 pm

I HATE it when real life dumps on top of my poor Julia!!! Had a massively busy weekend (mutter, moan, work thingys, not "that" sort of busy on Valentine's, not by a long shot!) and then yesterday evening, Julia was scared away by an obnoxious drunk who followed us halfway home and merited a 999 call Mad

nevertheless, this is the sum total of what I managed over the weekend. Hope to get another chunk done tonight, though!

K

#147: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Tue Feb 17, 2004 2:49 pm

*** *** ***

On the other side of the door, Len lay in her bed, curled up in a foetal position. She wasn’t sleeping. Len had cried and cried until she was too exhausted for sleep – despairing at Con, at what Jennie must think, at what anyone else must think. Crying in longing for Reg, to be safe in his arms. Not that he was very touchy-feely, in fact rather the opposite, he was quite aloof. But just his comfort. If Con decided to say anything to Mamma or Papa – she went numb at the thought.

If Len’s own sister could see a lesbian relationship, well, was it really there? Her mind went round and round, coming to no conclusions apart from making her ever more miserable. A thought entered Len’s mind – she should just get away from everyone. Stop ruining their precious lives. The miserable reality hit her as plausible, as the only way out – there was no way forward. No way. Len thanked God that she was too tired to move, and she wouldn’t know what to do, anyway.

She had just come to this most awful of epiphanies when she saw a white sheet of paper appearing under her door. Len slipped onto the floor and crawled to the door, clambered back into bed and tried to focus on the paper in the dim bedside light which had been on all night.

As Len read her sister’s uncharacteristically shaky hand, she felt a physical weight lift from her shoulders and a darkness from her heart. It didn’t take away the pain and distress that was there, but it gave Len the release she needed to finally sleep.

*** *** ***

#148: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Tue Feb 17, 2004 2:50 pm

*** *** ***

Jennie was also up thinking. After he first fury had subsided, her analytical mind began to work and question. Jennie’s temper was hot, and subsided as quickly as it arose, allowing her to detach her emotions whilst asking searching personal questions. She began to journal, as the only surefire way of keeping her thoughts linear rather than thinking absolute garbage.

What had made Con think there was a relationship between herself and Len? She thought immediately of the hugs and her “darling”s, “dear”s and so forth, but then she knew plenty of folk who were like that! Maybe Con didn’t, despite having been schooled on the Continent – at least, she presumed Con had been at the Chalet School, like Len. And come to that, if the School was really as isolated as Len made out, why was this the first thing to enter her mind? Jennie herself had known of lesbianism only because her closest friend, Abigail, had confided in her about her feelings last year. She remembered the weeks of unease which had followed; paranoia about Abs and whether she was attracted to her, whether she could be gay herself and not know it, and general misunderstanding. She felt for Con in that way, having seen Len’s side of their bond, the closest sisterly bond she’d ever seen. So why had Con jumped to that conclusion? Jennie considered herself a girl of relatively broad experience and maturity, and yet the concept had surprised her – but Con? Had, perhaps, someone else said something? The gossip mill usually ran quickly, but so soon after everyone’s arrival, when they still barely knew each other, let alone all one hundred in their yeargroup?

Perplexed, but glad the questions were out in the open, Jennie thought also of Len, and what the poor girl would be thinking now. Clearly more naïve than her sister, what would she think after the bombshell, false as it was? Jennie was worried that Len’s reaction would be worse than hers had been toward Abs for a time – friends as the girls were now, it had ruined things for a time, and in such a new friendship, this could be many times worse. Jennie liked Len; she really didn’t want to lose this new friend.

She stopped. Why? Yes, Len was a friend, and one never likes losing a friend, but why was this so strong? Jennie decided it must be a mother-instinct, having seen Len so distraught and devoid of friends or companions. That must have surely been why she also flared up so furiously. Jennie noticed the dawn. No point in sleeping now, she thought. Jennie dressed and left for a morning jog, to stretch her muscles after being cramped over her writing pad for so long. She crept along the landing and down the stairs, thinking especially of Ellie and Carol, the other two girls on her landing.

*** *** ***

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

Posted: Tue Feb 17, 2004 3:09 pm

Oh, CON! what have you done...

I love this Kirsty - they're so alive.

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

Posted: Tue Feb 17, 2004 3:43 pm

Loving this too! Por Len, poor Jennie, poor Con.

#151: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Tue Feb 17, 2004 4:13 pm

*feeling very sorry for all three girls - look at the ramifications of a few thoughtless words.

#152: Author: Marianne, Location: Lancaster

Posted: Tue Feb 17, 2004 4:37 pm

Poor, Jennie, Con and Len! I hope things work out for them!

#153: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Tue Feb 17, 2004 4:52 pm

Kirsty, this is great! Very emotional, but great!

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

Posted: Tue Feb 17, 2004 5:07 pm

Oh yay, more! Thank you Kirsty, this is wonderful. Very Happy

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

Posted: Tue Feb 17, 2004 5:46 pm

Lots of more, thank you Kirsty!
I'm glad Con's letter helped Len to be able to sleep but I can see more heartache for all the characters in this drabble. Confused

#156: Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Tue Feb 17, 2004 6:24 pm

What an emotional start to the term! I hope Len doesn't do anything silly!

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

Posted: Tue Feb 17, 2004 8:53 pm

Thank you Kirsty!! Looking forward to more when RL allows!!

#158: Author: Polly, Location: Essex

Posted: Tue Feb 17, 2004 11:40 pm

Thank you Kirsty. Thant was really good!! Looking forward to more now!!

#159: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Wed Feb 18, 2004 1:23 am

Thank you Kirsty - Poor Len and Con hope it all works out well for them. And poor Jennie too.

#160: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Wed Feb 18, 2004 2:47 am

Thank you Kirsty, I'm glad that Len bothered to read Con's letter, she might well have decided to throw it away, but I'm sorry she's so miserable, in fact, I'm sorry that they're all miserable.
And I have to say that this drabble isn't making me like Reg very much, no matter what Len thinks of him.

#161: Author: Guest,

Posted: Wed Feb 18, 2004 5:27 am

Thank you Kirsty. This is absolutly wonderful, I am very much looking forward to more when you can write it.

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

Posted: Wed Feb 18, 2004 6:13 am

Adds to thanks - looking forward to more when RL allows.

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

Posted: Wed Feb 18, 2004 3:04 pm

Hope RL eases up soon. Look forward to more when RL allows.

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

Posted: Wed Feb 18, 2004 5:09 pm

*ties up RL and locks it into a box, so Kirsty can write lots more!*

#165: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Wed Feb 18, 2004 5:11 pm

*tells Vikki "Nice try" but doubts RL will stay there for long*

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

Posted: Wed Feb 18, 2004 5:57 pm

It's padlocked.....

#167: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Wed Feb 18, 2004 6:15 pm

Bloody thing can break padlocks easily!

*goes to check*

*finds empty box*

Oh, Vi-kki!

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

Posted: Wed Feb 18, 2004 6:26 pm

Oh b*ggrit!!!

#169: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Wed Feb 18, 2004 6:32 pm

Well, I'm sorry but I thought you ought to know!

#170: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Wed Feb 18, 2004 7:27 pm

*goes to find out what caused the large thump under the mailslot.

*finds RL.

*shipps it back to Vikki in a box tied with guide knots.

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

Posted: Wed Feb 18, 2004 8:56 pm

Vikki, don't takeon RL, it's just not worth it and besides which, you'll lose.

#172: Author: Polly, Location: Essex

Posted: Thu Feb 19, 2004 12:17 am

Wise advice!!!!

#173: Author: KB, Location: Berlin, Germany

Posted: Thu Feb 19, 2004 6:53 am

I suggest taking RL - to a high cliff and throwing it off!

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

Posted: Thu Feb 19, 2004 1:15 pm

*thinks KB's suggestion is a very good one* Hmm... Laughing

#175: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Feb 19, 2004 2:42 pm

RL is a dreadful thing, and I want as little of it as possible.

#176: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Thu Feb 19, 2004 4:06 pm

Hates bl**dy RL... thanx Chelsea and Vikki and everyone else who's tried to tie it down. It must have had some effect, because I slept a lot better lsat night than the two before - mind you, maybe "It's a Wonderful Life" had something to do with that (it's my comfort film).

Points at free weekend that isn't overrun with stuff oging on (despite it being TD on Sunday!) and a quieter week at work next week due to Reading Week (aka half term, aka essays week, aka doss around and do nothing week)

K (still not written any more drabble since MOnday Shocked

)

#177: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Feb 19, 2004 4:11 pm

Disappointing, but we'll wait, Kirsty.

#178: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Thu Feb 19, 2004 4:24 pm

What's TD? I'm assuming it is not Touch Down. Maybe something Day? Could be "Thank heavens we know Chelsea" Day Wink

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

Posted: Thu Feb 19, 2004 5:25 pm

thinking day?

But thinking day is Sunday the 22nd, isn't it????

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

Posted: Thu Feb 19, 2004 5:37 pm

*wonders whether or not to point out that Sunday IS the 22nd...* Poo, I think I'm supposed to be going...

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

Posted: Thu Feb 19, 2004 5:41 pm

Sorry, I parsed that as Saturday being the crucial day, not sunday.

So Thinking Day?

Carys' Birthday (Chaletian at Cambridge)
Dana's Wedding.

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

Posted: Thu Feb 19, 2004 5:47 pm

I hope RL lets you write some more soon!

#183: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Thu Feb 19, 2004 5:49 pm

Okay, so what is Thinking Day? Aren't we supposed to think everyday?

#184: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Thu Feb 19, 2004 6:06 pm

Very important scout/guide festival. Think Baden-Powell birthdays.

#185: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Leeds

Posted: Thu Feb 19, 2004 6:31 pm

Oh yes, I remember reading about Thinking Day when I was in Brownies. Not sure we ever celebrated (if that's the right word) Thinking Day though.

#186: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Thu Feb 19, 2004 6:37 pm

For us it was usually the day the World Association was emphasized, so something internationally themed, usually with songs and/or food.

#187: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Thu Feb 19, 2004 9:03 pm

Oh, okay. I remember World Association Day and Baden-Powell Day, I just don't think we called it Thinking Day.

#188: Author: Mandy, Location: Derry, N.Ireland

Posted: Thu Feb 19, 2004 11:06 pm

We call it Thinking Day too. Our meeting that week should have an International theme.

#189: Author: Polly, Location: Essex

Posted: Fri Feb 20, 2004 12:09 am

I remember being flag-bearer at one of the Thinking Day services I went to as a Guide.

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

Posted: Fri Feb 20, 2004 12:14 am

I have an awful feeling I'm going to end up as flag bearer - either the Union flag or the World flag so right at the front - if I go on Sunday!! And I REALLY don't want to do it!!

#191: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Feb 20, 2004 4:25 pm

Be brave. a good CS girl never refuses a challenge!

#192: Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London

Posted: Fri Feb 20, 2004 5:09 pm

yup - TD is Thinking Day, which is Sunday. Not currently being attached to any Ranger Unit (or technically a pad-member, not having paid my subs oopsy) and our church not having its own Units, there isn't anything much going on (except that I'll be in uniform to mark the Day).

I loved it at school that on Thinking Day we had the right to wear our Rainbow/Brownie/Guide/Ranger or Beaver/Cub/Scout/Venture uniforms (although by the time we got to High School, we were at that self-conscious age where we only pinned our World badges onto the lapel of our blazer on TD). Just cos it was a day you didn't have to wear school uniform!!! Laughing

Thinking Day, February 22nd, was chosen as the date to specifically remember our brothers and sisters in the Guide and Scout movements across the globe, because it was the birthday of Lady and Lord Baden-Powell, founders of the movements. There's a parade at Westminster every year. Our County (East Renfrewshire) used to mark it with attendance in uniform at church without a march or flags in our units, plus an evening service with all the unit flags of the Companies for the entire County (points out that East Renfrewshire only has 8,000 Guidinguk members - the Scouts did something separate). In CoS we don't generally have church attendance every month - just on Armistice (including march past freezing our butts off) and TD.

Had a hectic day today and left my disk at home grrr... so there'll be an extra big chunk on here for y'all on Monday Very Happy

#193: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Fri Feb 20, 2004 5:28 pm

So did the Powell's have the same birthdate? I cannot remember, but I do remember it struck me as odd that TD was for both their birthdays.

And Ciorstaidh, more story when you have the chance would be great.

#194: Author: Polly, Location: Essex

Posted: Fri Feb 20, 2004 11:47 pm

I sometimes wish I was still involved in Guides. I did start out as a Young Leader, but music took up too much time, and I have never had the chance since! Sad

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

Posted: Sat Feb 21, 2004 12:01 am

Both A and J have been told about thinking day, but neither have been told to do anything special. The Brownies are not a church pack and the Beavers have a parade Sunday once a month (which we don't go to 'cos of going to our own services) and that's that. They didn't meet this week anyway 'cos of half term.

Neither of them knew wether it was last Sunday or this Sunday either.

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

Posted: Sun Feb 22, 2004 6:08 pm

Still no more story? Crying or Very sad