The CBB :: View topic - The Revenge of the Head Mistresses

#1: The Revenge of the Head Mistresses Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 7:06 pm

This was prompted by a little chat elsewhere on the board...

The Tiernsee
1932
Madge sat back in her chair and smiled a little as the maid - one of the large Pfeiffen family - closed the door of the study behind her. She knew all too well how the summons she had just sent would be received by the subject of them. Being only twenty-four, it was not really all that long ago that she had also received such messages and worried about the cause of them until she finally arrived at the Head's study. Madge chuckled and picked up the cable that had arrived for Rosalie Dene from her father. She, Madge, could almost feel sorry for the child. Almost.

The Tiernsee
1935
Mlle La Pattre couldn't restrain a chuckle as she closed the study door, having sent the Head Girl, Jo Bettany, off to send Joyce Linton to the study. Joyce would worry for the entire walk from the new house to the old about the reason for her summons. It was rather unkind, but Mlle La Pattre couldn't deny that she found it a completely joyless occupation to know that she could wake the girls up in that way.

Wales
1941
Miss Annersley sent off young Primrose Day, who had come to the study like every other girl - trembling and anxious. It seemed that even the Prefects weren't immune to that feeling! Hilda could certainly remember it herself, far too easily. Perhaps it was a little unkind to toy with the girls like that, but she did so enjoy it!

Wales
1943
Miss Bubb's eyes gleamed and a smirk curled her lips as she sent the maid off to look for her current victim. She did enjoy knowing just how terror would strike the hearts of those girls she called in to see her, even if, like today, it was just about that they music lesson would be cancelled due to their master's ill health. It was so much fun to torture these silly little girls in this way.

Interlaken
1953
"Oh, I am glad we moved the school here," Hilda exclaimed as the study door closed behind yet another girl who had received a summons. "It wasn't nearly as much fun doing that on my own!"
"I must say," Nell remarked, "that you are able to rouse feelings of guilt in even the most innocent girl, Hilda. You really must teach me the secret. Sarcasm is good, of course, but it has its limits. That look of yours is something else altogether. Another league, in fact."
"Come on now," Hilda protested. "I have to have some secrets!"

Interlaken
1957
Nancy sent the maid off to fetch the girl and turned to her good friend, Kathie, who had come to spend the evening with her friend.
"Now I know why Hilda likes this post so much," Nancy remarked. "I don't mind the power trips myself so much."
Kathie laughed. "Well, there had to be some perks, my dear!"

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

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 7:14 pm

That was wonderful KB. Why did Mlle Le Patre find it joyless, everyone esle seemed to enjoy it, is this why she didn't last?

#3: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 7:18 pm

*lol* I think, while she did enjoy it, she may not have liked making the girls so sad. Alternately it could be a type. I can't quite remember what else I might have meant though.

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

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 8:41 pm

Hmmm! It seems that the prime requisite for a headmistress is a sadistic streak! Love it KB!

(NB Perhaps you meant to write joyful not joyless?)

#5: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2004 8:46 pm

Perhaps I did. Oh, well, I won't change it now. It would only confuse people.

#6: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 1:45 am

*giggles*
Oooh! is that KB's evil streak I spy?

#7: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 8:00 am

Oh, b*gger! I thought I'd hidden that!

#8: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 9:55 am

KB! I loved this!
Good start to the morning - thank you! Laughing

#9: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 9:59 am

Glad you did. You're very welcome!

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

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 10:31 am

*giggles* And I always thought Headmistresses had to be responsible...

#11: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 10:31 am

A nice chuckle for a Friday morning!

#12: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 10:39 am

That is really sweet, what a lovely perk for the HM's

#13: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 12:52 pm

Subtle, KB, subtle!

#14: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Redcar

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 1:25 pm

Now I'll look at the office summonses in a different light!

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

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 3:09 pm

*Giggles*

Thank you KB, now we know why you enjoy summoning us so much, your just follwing in the fine tradition!

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

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 3:34 pm

Are you planning on taking this any further KB?

Developing a few of the more interesting incidents perhaps?

Creating a whole new pile of incidents to keep us amused at just how sadistic all Head Mistresses are?

You needen't think this was a stand alone effort - write some more!

#17: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 7:15 pm

Once I've finished my current stuff, maybe I'll expand it, Rachel.

Glad everyone got a giggle out of it.

#18: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 9:35 pm

*settles down to wait*

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

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 10:17 pm

** settles down next to Vikki and hands out Clementines **

#20: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2004 11:18 pm

Oooh! Clementines! Thanks Rachel!!

#21: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2004 6:19 am

You'll be waiting a while!

#22: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2004 4:07 pm

Ah, but will we wait patiently?

#23: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2004 4:41 pm

*chuckle*

Well, in the absence of KB taking this any further ...................................... Very Happy

Chaletian Bulletin Board 2004

KB reclined in the large, leather swivel chair which accompanied her mahogany desk and smiled, a most reprehensible smirk of glee transforming her usually solemn features as she surveyed her office. It had been something of a shock when Liss, the Chairman of the Board of Governors had appointed her as Headmistress so soon after her term in office as Head Girl. However, she had accepted the honour prettilyand set to with her usual vim and vigour, determined to make a mark despite the formidable history of her predecessors. It was hard work keeping her distance from the rest of the School but she had disciplined herself from the start with an average of 200 posts a day in order to abreast of even Vikki, the Senior Mistress. After a hard day in front of the computer she could now relax and contemplate her position ... it wasn't the gravity of the role that she enjoyed, KB reflected as she poured herself a hefty slug of Baileys on the rocks and sipped it thoughtfully. No, it was the power, the ability to call errant CBBers to her office for a quiet word in their ear ... for the ubiquitous chat "behind closed doors". It was funny, she ruminated, so many of them had been beckoned to her hallowed office since the new board had begun and yet none had dared confide in their friends as to what really went on once she had received the dreaded "summons to the Head's study" ...

#24: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2004 5:19 pm

Wonderful Rachael! Looks like KB is following in the grand old traditions of the CS

#25: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2004 6:30 pm

Oh, Rachael, please continue this - or we could work together on it! I've always wanted to be the star of a drabble!

#26: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2004 7:15 pm

*chants for more!!!!*

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

Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2004 7:17 pm

Yippee, thank you Rachael!!

#28: Author: Nicci, Location: UK

Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2004 7:58 pm

wonderful, KB and Rachael.
May we expect anymore?

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

Posted: Sat Feb 07, 2004 10:52 pm

That was great Rachael.

Would love to see the two of you collaborate on this.

#30: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sun Feb 08, 2004 6:32 am

Rachael, it sounds like we should!

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

Posted: Sun Feb 08, 2004 9:27 am

Rachael your post was wonderful! And I do think that you and KB should collaborate on more!

#32: Author: catherine, Location: York

Posted: Sun Feb 08, 2004 9:41 am

Agree with above. Looking forward to more.

#33: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Sun Feb 08, 2004 2:35 pm

Please may we have some more!

#34: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Sun Feb 08, 2004 2:49 pm

I am glad you've picked this up and run with it.

Looking forward to more!

#35: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Sun Feb 08, 2004 4:50 pm

Lovely snippets, but would like more please.

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

Posted: Sun Feb 08, 2004 4:54 pm

Oh yay! Go for it KB and Rachael!

#37: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Redcar

Posted: Sun Feb 08, 2004 5:19 pm

That bit was great Rachael. I'd like to see you and KB collaborating on this.

#38: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Sun Feb 08, 2004 5:38 pm

*groans audibly*

Rolling Eyes

#39: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Sun Feb 08, 2004 5:41 pm

*lol* Come on, dear, we can do it! *ushers Rachael into the study for a planning session*

#40: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Sun Feb 08, 2004 6:03 pm

*exits chuckling*

Watch this space ......................................................................... Very Happy

#41: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Mon Feb 09, 2004 3:16 pm

Well, where is it then???? Wink

#42: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Redcar

Posted: Mon Feb 09, 2004 4:57 pm

You really should learn to curb your impatience Vikki. Actually, that sounds like something a headmistress would say. Smile

#43: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Mon Feb 09, 2004 6:19 pm

*glares at Sarah L!!!*

#44: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Mon Feb 09, 2004 6:31 pm

I just read this thread - it is great!!

May we please have some more?

#45: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Mon Feb 09, 2004 7:56 pm

*doles out rations of patience* There will be more, but we haven't even got it written yet, so just 'old your 'osses!

#46: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Mon Feb 09, 2004 10:45 pm

*hopes KB has a BIG sack of patience.....*

#47: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Mon Feb 09, 2004 11:25 pm

She's probably given away all of hers, so if you see her nagging on other threads, that'll be why! Laughing

KB, are you going to be Miss Annersley or Miss Bubb? I'd love to see you as a Miss Bubb style character- that could be very funny! ROFL

#48: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 8:40 am

I think that will depend on the various sinners, Lisa...

#49: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 12:02 pm

Oh dear - this came out far longer than I anticipated!

Lesley Green was cooling her heels in the corridor outside Miss Bruce’s office. The summons had been unexpected and she was now racking her brain to pinpoint exactly what had precipitated the cool tones informing her that she should report to the Head’s study immediately after Kaffee und Kuchen. For once her conscience was clear. She had not played Eminem at full volume since being reprimanded the month before and despite her propensity for sleeping in whenever possible, she had made it down to Fruhstuck in good time all term. “No,” she reflected complacently, “There’s really no reason to haul me over the coals so I wonder why Brucie wants to see me?”
Her musings were interrupted by the clock striking seventeen and, with a last look in the mirror to ensure that her hair was neat and smoothing down her rumpled frock, she knocked smartly on the door.
“Herein!”
Lesley obeyed the command smartly, bobbing the regulation curtsey before standing to attention in front of the large mahogany desk.

Miss Bruce looked over her spectacles at the girl before her and ushered her into a seat before continuing to flick through the papers on her desk. Straining to see, Lesley flushed as she realised that they were print-offs of her Drabbles: My Friend, The Real Chalet School, Santa in July and even her latest opus, a work in progress entitled A Surfeit of Rach(a)els. As Miss Bruce continued to flick through them, pausing only to scribble a comment here or highlight a passage there, an uneasy sense of foreboding threatened to overwhelm Lesley. The tension mounted as the Head continued at her work and the silence became unbearable. Lesley fidgeted, feeling her palms become sweaty. At length Miss Bruce appeared to finish and Lesley started as the papers were unceremoniously swept up and shuffled into a neat pile.

“I can see you’ve been busy, Lesley?” The Head’s voice was pleasantly inquisitive but Lesley detected a steely note beneath the surface and swallowed nervously.
“Er … yes, Miss Bruce, I … um … I enjoy writing …” she stammered.
“Evidently.” Miss Bruce caught Lesley’s eye causing that young woman to drop her own gaze and study the backs of her hands which she held tightly in her lap.
“Tell me, Lesley,” and the usually sunny Australian accent had an added undertone that the unfortunate Lesley had never heard before. “Are you quite satisfied that your “writings” are appropriate for the Board.?”
“I … I … er … don’t know what you mean …” Lesley’s eyes searched the room for inspiration.
Miss Bruce sighed pointedly before running her finger down the first page of the sheets on the desk.

“My Friend” she began. “Hilda Annersley, sole Headmistress of the Chalet School, sat in her study. It was only three days since the news that Nell Wilson, her Co-Head, friend and confidant was dead. The business of the School continued, and, during the day, was almost enough to keep the pain of her loss at bay. But now, late at night, when the School slept, there was nothing to stop her from experiencing anew, the full horror of the situation. The small clock on the mantle chimed two o'clock, Hilda watched her blue-grey eyes reflecting the pain within her soul.”
Miss Bruce replaced the sheet she had chosen. “I won’t deny that the writing here is excellent, Lesley. You convey the horror and depth of Hilda’s grief with great clarity and emotion but was it entirely necessary to push the poor woman so very close to the brink?”
“I don’t know … or at least, I didn’t mean to … but I felt that this was how Hilda would react. She would be completely devastated to lose Bill … um … Miss Wilson .…”
Miss Bruce made no reply except to raise one eyebrow.
“I was just trying to convey the pain and questioning that Hilda would have undergone. I didn’t mean to make it so distressing but I was reacting myself to what Esmeralda … I mean, Ellie … had written in Tensions ..”
As Lesley stumbled over her words, Miss Bruce raised one hand.
“Enough, Lesley, Ellie’s writing is not the subject of investigation here!”
“No, Miss Bruce.” Lesley’s flush turned to crimson.

“Then there’s The Real Chalet School,” the Head continued. “There are so many extracts from this which reflect my point but perhaps this will one will serve as the best illustration.
‘To begin with I did try to live a ‘normal’ life in between bouts, but it didn’t last, I would find myself praying that she would go that little too far and actually kill me. But she couldn’t, you see the story had ended, so any characters were frozen in time, they could not die, and, in the end, that was the greatest irony. All that time, before you’d all escaped, when she had tried to kill both of us, and we had survived, I found myself wishing that she had succeeded.’
“So it was not enough that you had Hilda suffer the misery of Nell Wilson’s death but in this story you have her tortured by her own author!” The Head sounded incredulous.
Lesley mumbled something incoherently.
“I beg your pardon?”
“I was just saying that it worked out happily in the end …” Lesley’s voice trailed off as she was fixed with a Brucie glare.
“Only because of the combined machinations of the CBB!” Miss Bruce’s voice was crisp.
“But it was my idea … I made sure she was rescued ….”
“Not before time” the Head commented drily. “I hardly think that persecuting the Headmistress is an acceptable use of your undoubted talent for story-telling! And then there’s this,” the Head resumed reading from The Real Chalet School.
‘A few moments later there was a muffled exclamation, Madge Russell looked up in alarm, “what is it?” she asked.Miss Annersley sighed, “There are, very occasionally, times when I wish my eyesight wasn’t perfect, Madge,” she smiled, “seeing Nell lose the top of her swim suit is one of them!’
“Hardly a decorous episode for the Deputy Head now is it?”
“I was just trying to inject a little light humour …” muttered Lesley resentfully.
“Indeed, I can only hope that your sense of “humour” matures at the same rate as the speed with which you create these drabbles!”
“Yes, Miss Bruce.” Lesley was now resigned to the Head’s opinion and hoped that her punishment would be swift.

“Santa in July”, the Head was turning to yet another page to read aloud once more.
“Girls, we have an emergency,” she said her soft tones still managing to convey urgency, “Carol, all of you, find the rest of the Prefects and bring them back here straight away, Louise has been kidnapped!”
“More melodrama, Lesley? This time abduction and ransom demands!” Miss Bruce looked stern and continued before Lesley had the chance to muster any defence. “Again the writing is fluent and you capture your audience in a gripping tale but I have to say that once again, these incidents are not seemly for your main characters. And it is no better in Surfeit which I believe is your current work?”
Lesley, now speechless, nodded her assent as Miss Bruce prepared to read one final excerpt.
“Informing Miss Wilson about the accusations and the investigation had not gone particularly well. Nell had, predictably, been furious and it had taken all the Head’s strength and powers of persuasion to stop the angry woman from marching over to the School to confront the man personally. Eventually conceding that throwing him bodily off the School premises was unlikely to advance her cause, Miss Wilson listened while Miss Annersley had detailed exactly what had been said. Discovering that, as an alternative to planting a bomb, he was also considering gross negligence in the labelling and storage of chemicals didn’t help the Deputy Head’s mood. However, eventually she conceded that it was best to remain away from the Investigator and await developments.”
“I see that we now have Nell in the frame, presumably a literary tactic to grab the readers' attention?”
“They demand it, Miss Bruce – they seem to expect that Hilda and Nell will lose every battle, only to win the war. I wouldn’t write this way if I didn’t get such positive feedback …” Lesley clutched at some proverbial straws.

“Abject misery, grief, torture, horror, humiliation, kidnapping, extortion, set-ups … quite a litany of transgressions, Lesley, particularly against Miss Annersley herself, whom you profess is your favourite character!” Miss Bruce was now in her stride as she began to sum up their discussion. “You have an undoubted talent for creating a world and populating it with real characters but I would be failing you in my duty as Headmistress if I did not point out to you that such scenarios are not befitting for ladies of the stature and background of Nell Wilson and Hilda Annersley. I can not allow this kind of impropriety to continue on the CBB. As a consequence, I insist that you wrote a letter of apology to both characters and that in future you write drabbles of a more appropriate nature … drabbles in which your characters conduct themselves with the protocol and etiquette with which they were first imbued by their author and in which they are placed in "real" situations. Any questions?”
Lesley shook her head.
“Then you are dismissed. Good night.”
Lesley rose, staggering somewhat from this onslaught.
“Good night, Miss Bruce, I’ll endeavour to write something more satisfactory this week, although I’m just not sure whether I can …”
“Oh, I’m sure you can, Lesley,” smiled the Head, “the issue is whether you will or not …”

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

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 12:54 pm

Oh Rachael that's brilliant, can just picture the whole scene in my head. And I didn't think it was too long at all!

Wondering who is going to be next to be called in to see the head.....

#51: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 1:15 pm

That was terrific Racheal, you may think it was long, I would have liked to be even longer!
And I'm very relieved that my writing wasn't the subject of investigation, (not that I've tortured Hilda anyway)

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

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 2:00 pm

*grins*

'Brucie' always makes me think of that Shark in finding Nemo - that would make for an interesting head....

#53: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 4:12 pm

That's hysterical ROFL

I haven't read most of Lesley's stuff yet but I feel very sorry for her, looks like "Brucie" is definately following in the traditions of the Heads of the CS... I'm quite scared now.
*wanders off on her best behaviour*

#54: Author: Sarah_L, Location: Redcar

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 4:47 pm

*hopes Sarah_K's best behaviour involves lots of drabble writing*

#55: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 5:20 pm

*Thinks it might be interesting to have Brusie's writings looked at by the Board!!!*

#56: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 5:29 pm

Thanks Rachael that was great, do we get some more please!

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

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 5:31 pm

*misparses this as bruiser*

#58: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 9:22 pm

LOLOLOL! Rachael, was this a product of simply yourself and KB? or was poor Lesley involved? If she was- hysterical. If she wasn't- I look forward to seeing her reaction on this thread and even more to what she may or may not do to you and KB in revenge!!!!!

*slinks off*
Esmeralda, sorry, Ellie, you started the ball rolling by killing Bill. If that's what Brucie was like to poor Lesley, who never actually killed anyone, I hate to think what she'll do to you, or Carolyn, or Rachel- especially Rachel! ROFL

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

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 9:25 pm

Rachael that was great, thanks for a good grin! What was Lesley's reaction?

Hope to see more from one or 'tother of you soon.

#60: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 9:28 pm

Quote:

“They demand it, Miss Bruce – they seem to expect that Hilda and Nell will lose every battle, only to win the war. I wouldn’t write this way if I didn’t get such positive feedback …” Lesley clutched at some proverbial straws.

Did anyone else notice Lesley trying to put the blame on us? Not very cricket of her, was it? Wink

#61: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 9:30 pm

Lisa_T wrote:

Actually, no, she wasn't. This is a little union of Rachael and myself. And we are going to have fun with a number of you... *chuckles evilly*

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

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 9:33 pm

*grins nonchalantly*

More please, Brucie

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

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 10:50 pm

Well!!!! As KB has already said, no I had nothing to do with Rachael's little gem - although I did get a little warning via email at work today that something had been written.

So Miss Bruce wants me to change my story does she? I didn't change my story when I had the entire CBB shut down in misery one night - one headmistress is not going to do it!

Many thanks for all the praise Rachael - however, considering the title of my current story you may find yourself wishing you had chosen someone else. Wink

(Lesley getting rather good at the veiled threat.)

#64: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 10:59 pm

"Veiled" was that?! I'd be intrigued to see an "in your face" threat Lesley!?!
As for choosing someone else - why, we've only just begun! Wink

KB's turn next - I wonder who she's writing about? Confused

#65: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 11:04 pm

Especially when she's not even a real HM Lesley! Laughing

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

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 11:04 pm

Rachael wrote:

"Veiled" was that?! I'd be intrigued to see an "in your face" threat Lesley!?!

Generally involves a sub-machine gun! Wink

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

Posted: Tue Feb 10, 2004 11:35 pm

Well it isn't a Rach(a)el laying in a hospital bed after an explosion...maybe it one who caused it?

Lesley, where did you find a machine gun, it shouldn't have been left laying around the board in case a Junior got hold of it.

Looking forward with some trepidation to much much more of this.

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

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 12:19 am

It wasn't lying around on the board Miss Second Prefect Ma'am - I sent away for it - you can get anything on the Net now!

(Decides not to mention the thermonuclear devices on top of my wardrobe.)

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

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 12:42 am

I think maybe you should show me some of these sites. For research purposes only you understand. Wink

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

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 12:53 am

(Pssssssst! Lesley! Wanna buy an Uzi???)

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

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 1:02 am

Rachel wrote:

(Pssssssst! Lesley! Wanna buy an Uzi???)

Off the board, Rachel, off the board! PM me - I'm interested! Twisted Evil

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

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 1:08 am

I'm crying with laughter - thank you Rachael! And Uzi yibblers!

#73: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 3:26 am

Another hysterical drabble to send me off to bed in a happy mood. Well done one and all.

#74: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 9:06 am

I can see a lot of people editing drabbles to avoid a similar summons!

#75: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 9:11 am

*suggests that perhaps it's too late for that...*

#76: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 9:52 am

Please may we have some more

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

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 4:42 pm

*echoes Chloe*

#78: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 5:29 pm

Who's next? Twisted Evil

#79: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 5:31 pm

Funny you should ask that, Pat...

Pat was waiting anxiously outside the study, fixing her eyes on the long mirror, in which she had already ensured that her appearance was as perfect as she could make it. It wasn’t her fault that one of the Juniors had spilled her milk, and that a large splash had managed to wet the front of her skirt. Matey had been so busy that she hadn’t noticed, and nor had Pat herself until she arrived just this moment. Still, there wasn’t anything she could do about it now.

Wracking her brains for a reason for the summons, Pat turned her gaze onto the grandfather clock in the hall. It couldn’t be about the latest singing lesson, which had, it was true, turned out to be a regular shambles when at least half of the Seniors were unable to get the tune and Plato had nearly popped his buttons telling them what he thought of them.

She knew there had been some complaints about the speed “More Shocks” was going up, but she had said time and again that she was doing it as quickly as she could. Besides, it wasn’t even as if she got proper feedback for it. As soon as she put up a part, there would be demands for more, and without even comments on what she’d already done, nor suggestions for where the story might go next.

Still, that might be reason. After all, she knew Lesley had been told off for her stories. That was also Lesley would say, however, and she had scuttled to her desk and immediately begun to write, her shoulders hunched. She had snapped continually at people all evening, until everyone had let her alone. After an hour or so, she had departed, with suspiciously bright eyes and very pink cheeks, refusing to meet anyone’s gaze, and nothing more had been seen of her that night.

Pat’s thoughts came back to herself and the reason for the summons. It might be to do with her German. She hated the language and had all sorts of problems getting her tongue around the pronunciations. Even the extra tuition she was receiving didn’t seem to help much. She thought unhappily that just because she had spent so many years in Germany didn’t mean she’d learned the language – after all, she had spent most of her time around English speakers, so when was she supposed to have found time to learn it?

There might be her occasional rude reactions to the Head – sticking out her tongue and the like: but surely Brucie knew that was just in fun, didn’t she? She had a good enough sense of humour – sure, it was a bit on the sick side sometimes, but it was there!

Maybe it was the little matter of eating that raw bacon at the Prefects’ meeting – but then there hadn’t been any staff there, and the Prees were too close-knit to dob in one of their own, unless someone felt obliged to warn Matey in case Pat was sick.

Might it have to do with Pat’s ongoing insistence that KB was actually EBD_herself? But no, they had sorted that out and Pat had decided that she couldn’t possibly be – except for the occasional moment when she wasn’t sure.

Finally, just as she began to feel that she must scream if she had to wait much longer, the clock ticked over to fifteen minutes past three and she turned to the door. Knocking, she heard the Head’s voice.

“Herein.”

Giving the traditional curtsey, Pat looked up to see the Head’s smile and felt her tension drain away immediately.

“Your father called, Pat. He asked me to tell you that he will be here at fourteen hours on Saturday afternoon, to take you out. You are to change after lunch.”

“Oh, thank you, Miss Bruce,” Pat beamed. “He did say he’d try to come to take me to the concert, but he wasn’t sure if he’d be able to make it.”

“I hope you have a good time,” the Head Mistress replied. “Now, you had better go and see what use you can make of your remaining prep time. I doubt,” she went on knowingly, “you have done much so far.”

“Er, no,” the prefect admitted, going to the door. “You know, Miss Bruce,” Pat hesitated briefly, before taking her courage in both hands and continuing, “you gave me an awful shock.”

There was a twinkle of amusement in the Head’s eyes. “Then perhaps,” she suggested, “you could return the favour and give me More Shocks.”

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

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 5:38 pm

excellent!!

can't wait to see who is next to be summonsed! do we have to chant at Rachael now?

#81: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 5:39 pm

Please, I've nearly finished checking our catalogue! But then i have to check our suppliers, and get a list together for ordering. I've been asked to spend up the money quickly, too!

#82: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 5:48 pm

Very funny, KB! Laughing

Love the clever ending!!

You'll have to wait 'til tomorrow Kate although I may not keep you waiting as long as KB just did! I've been in and out all day waiting to see if she'd posted!

#83: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 5:52 pm

Sorry, but I was waiting for Pat to ask and be around.

#84: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 5:55 pm

Ah - sneaky! Razz

*off to scout through thread to see whether next victim, ahem, I mean star, has even read any of this thread ........................*

ETA: Yep, she has!
*feeling less guilty now*

#85: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 5:57 pm

Glad to hear it!

Oh, and folks, Rachael's will be funnier than mine, as her sense of humour is much better than mine. Just so you know...

#86: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 6:03 pm

Er - EXCUSE ME!!
Talk about setting me up for a fall! Especially when you don't know what's coming - it could be an epic tragedy (but then again that probably would read as a farce!)

Humour is a very personal thing Very Happy

*points at Rachel the W*
I rest my case!! Wink

#87: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 6:04 pm

Er, sorry. That was just a feeling I had, reading through yours and then mine. Embarassed

*posts some huggles to Rachael*

#88: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 6:07 pm

*accepts huggles and returns some back for KB*

That's OK - just remember other people's writing generally does seem more funny, emotional, fluent, blah blah rather than your own! Human nature, modesty etc ... Very Happy

It should just be fun as we have different styles - like Carolyn and Rachel in the Advents .......................

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

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 6:07 pm

Very good KB, hope to see more soon Rachael

#90: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 6:11 pm

LOL! Well don't be too long, Rachael!
Let's see- who are the potential victims?

Nell
Katarzyna
Abi
Chloe
PatMac
Susan
Catherine_B
Rachel

I think Rachel's a very strong contender!!! Laughing

Actually, here are more potential victims- including Rachel's other half! Wink

Carolyn
Vikki
Ellie
Jennie
Sarah K
Sarah L
Ally
Nicci
Angel
Catherine
Chelsea
and me! *gulp*

Last edited by Lisa_T on Wed Feb 11, 2004 7:49 pm; edited 1 time in total

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

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 6:13 pm

Like the way I top the list though...

#92: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 6:19 pm

That was great KB. It was even sorta true to EBD (not the details, but the wracking of brain after and innocent summons).

*looking forward to more
*is glad that I'm not writing a drabble.

#93: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 6:24 pm

Chelsea, my dear, this has nothing to do with writing drabbles. Rachael, do you want Chelsea, or shall I have her?

#94: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 6:47 pm

*suddenly remembers somewhere else that she has to be - somewhere far away where there are no computers or Head's Studies.

#95: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 6:56 pm

*splutters*

What have i done to be a potential victim!

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

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 6:57 pm

Breaths a sigh of relief on not appearing on list.

Love this, and finding it wonderful light relief to RL.
Advent drabbles were done in two styles on purpose, especially as I didn't think I could manage anything that wasn't serious, then came Chewed pastic fairy and Holocaust, but I'm still more at home with the SCS stuff.

#97: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 7:05 pm

I suspect you have added yorself to the list Carolyn!!!!

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

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 7:17 pm

*feeling quite safe having never been rude to anyone on the board nor having caused any unrealistic suffering to any drabble characters!* Rolling Eyes

#99: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 7:46 pm

Well last time i checked nor had i catherine, but i'm on the list!

#100: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 7:51 pm

Chloe, the list is based on Rachael's comment that she wanted to check that her next victim was aware of this thread. All the people I've listed had posted here so are therefore in the running!!!
Besides, as HG I'd have thought you're a pretty obvious target Wink

#101: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 7:59 pm

*mutters*

i get all the best responsibilities don't I Rolling Eyes

It makes sense for it to be someone who posts on the thread i guess

#102: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 8:08 pm

Catherine_B wrote:

*feeling quite safe having never been rude to anyone on the board nor having caused any unrealistic suffering to any drabble characters!* Rolling Eyes

Rachael, isn't it sweet when they try to delude themselves?

And Carolyn, it's funny but you're on my list!

#103: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 8:10 pm

Who's turn is it as i'd like more please!

Last edited by Chloë on Wed Feb 11, 2004 8:14 pm; edited 1 time in total

#104: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 8:12 pm

It's Rachael's, but you will only get one part each day.

#105: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 8:15 pm

*groans* Not another unholy alliance...

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

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 8:19 pm

Not too sure I like being described as Rachel's other half, it worries me somewhat!
We both write plenty on our own as well.

KB...I'm already worried and I haven't been summonsed yet. Confused

#107: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 8:22 pm

KB wrote:

It's Rachael's, but you will only get one part each day.

You should know by now that wont stop the chants!

#108: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 8:22 pm

Oh, yes, you cause plenty of damage on your own, Carolyn! Wink

And I know it won't stop the chanting, Chloe. I just thought a warning was only fair.

#109: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 9:19 pm

Quote:

KB...I'm already worried and I haven't been summonsed yet.

Me too Carolyn! Although Pat had a nice surprise at the end of it so maybe we don't need to be too worried Confused

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

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 9:56 pm

I'm not worried!

#111: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 10:23 pm

Is there any reason why Lesley can't be called in again? Twisted Evil

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

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 10:27 pm

Sarah_K wrote:

Is there any reason why Lesley can't be called in again? Twisted Evil

Raspberries to Sarah K - I didn't take any notice last time so....

#113: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 10:30 pm

That's true but we did get a new bit of drabble from you so I think our HM should take note of how little you respect/fear her... Razz

#114: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Wed Feb 11, 2004 10:47 pm

*Thinks that Carolyn will need to keep her eyes opened at all times if she is summoned! Twisted Evil

#115: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 1:57 am

Loved the Pat story

Going to be very wary what I post to this thread in future

#116: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 6:18 am

So you think it's just what you post to this thread that matters, Sue...

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

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 10:28 am

am i too early to start asking for more?

Please!!

#118: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 10:38 am

Seeing as you asked so nicely, Kate!

Jennie made her way reluctantly to the office. On hearing the message that she must present herself at the Head’s study immediately, she had known at once what Miss Bruce must have discovered. That spring and summer, Jennie had spent much of her summer buried in botany and horticulture books whilst tending an array of weird and wonderful plants on her patio – marijuana and castor beans headed a very long list of exotic and indeed, dubious vegetation. In some cases, particularly that of the castor beans, she had been so impressed with the result that she had smuggled some seeds into the school grounds and, with an expertise born of having inherited green fingers, she had coaxed them into flowering in the beds beneath her windowsill. She had known it would only be a matter of time before Miss Everett or one of the groundsmen noticed them but she was disappointed that she had been detected so soon, especially as she had not had the opportunity to capitalise on her venture.

“Well, Jennie” smiled Miss Bruce after Jennie had curtsied with the obligatory Chalet School bob. “Do you know why I’ve asked you here this morning?”
“Er … no, Miss Bruce …” Jennie felt that discretion was the better part of valour and that she should wait until Miss Bruce had outlined exactly what she was accused of before digging herself any (metaphorical) holes.
“I have a report here from Miss Wilson …”
Jennie groaned inwardly. That was it then, the cat was amongst the pigeons if Bill had found out. Had she seen the castor beans herself? But Miss Bruce was reading from the report …
“Despite an unpromising start to the year, Jennifer seems to have collected her thoughts over the vacation and is now applying herself assiduously to Biology, particularly the botanical side of lessons. Her keen interest has been a credit to her and she has displayed a determination and ability to overcome all obstacles in the application of her studies that other students would do well to emulate. I have been extremely impressed by the success of Jennifer’s pet project which was to grow castor beans from seed. Although somewhat blasé in her approach (she should have requested permission first!), Jennifer has succeeded in bringing to flower a number of plants which are now flourishing despite their poor environment. I would like to commend Jennifer personally for her hard work in this field and to nominate her for the end of year Progress in Science cup.”
Miss Bruce folded up the report and beamed at her pupil. “I’m very proud of you, Jennie” she stated simply.

Jennie’s eyes widened at this unexpected acclaim. Was it really true? She had expected an uncomfortable interview and even police involvement, after all it was an easy enough step to manufacture the deadly poison ricin from the castor bean plant. Perhaps Miss Wilson did not realise the connection although surely such ignorance was impossible?
“However, Miss Wilson has now moved the castor plants into the school gardens so that everyone will have access to them. You will, of course, continue to be responsible for their welfare but we thought it only fair that everyone had the opportunity to appreciate your accomplishment …”
Jenie’s eyes goggled at this but she remained silent, her mind working furiously. They really didn’t know … was she going to get off scot-free?
“In the meantime, please remember that it is forbidden to bring your own seeds etc on to school grounds without seeking prior permission from one of the Science Staff. We do have to be very careful in our auditing of resources, Jennifer. As I’m sure you are well aware, some plants can be quite dangerous if handled incorrectly …”
“Er … yes, Miss Bruce, of course …” Jennie’s response was somewhat choked as she turned to leave the room.

“And Jennifer?”
“Yes, Miss Bruce?”
“Whilst your studies in the field of science have been exemplary over the last term, I am concerned about your English classes … Miss Derwent tells me that your written stories which, whilst excellent in their mechanics and with a striking capacity for humour, have been somewhat repetitive in their main theme …”
“I’m sorry Miss Bruce?” Jennie looked nonplussed, as well she might.
“Come now, Jennifer, there is no need to act all innocent – you have quite a following amongst the girls. My concern is that you ridicule the most important person in our school’s history, Mrs Maynard herself! Jo Maynard in the Year 2004 … The Society for the Suppression of Jo … just two of your drabbles and merely the tip of a large iceberg!” The Head turned to her computer screen and began to read …
“I declare the Society for the Suppression of Jo open. May God bless her and all who sail in her.
Rules:
Excruciating tortures only;
NO euthanasia allowed;
A maximum of two people to torture at any one time;
Form a neat queue; No pushing at the back.
Open season declared on Jo Maynard!”

Jennie looked mutinous.
“It’s not acceptable, Jennie. This kind of behaviour is a bad example to the Juniors. How will they learn to esteem and respect our first pupil, the pupil who is the very epitome of a “real” Chalet School girl, if this is the kind of leadership they have from their elders? Look at PatMac for example … when she first posted on the board, she seemed to be quite sensible and to hold the right kind of CS values. But look at this drabble …”, the Head clicked on I Can’t See What All the Fuss Is About by Mrs J M Maynard. “It’s clear to me that the unfortunate girl has fallen under your influence. She would never have written like this if she hadn’t read some of the twisted threads which pepper the board. Mrs Maynard is a fine, upstanding member of our community who does not deserve such denigration. Goodness me, girl, it’s tantamount to libel! As a Senior, it is your responsibility to set the parameters and to abide by them. Be careful that you don’t fall into the trap of making your characters so evil that they are two-dimensional, my dear. Joey has many attributes as well as faults, you would do well to remember this in order to make your writing more rounded …”
“But Miss Bruce, that’s the whole point … to have a dig at Joey because she’s so perfect … perfect career, perfect husband, perfect family, perfect problem-solver … I was trying to reflect the aspects of her that EBD missed!”
Jennie’s protestations fell on deaf ears.
“Now Jennifer, my advice is for the best and I hope you are able to accept it as constructive criticism. I think it would be in your best interests to practise writing about Mrs Maynard in a positive light. Please submit a 1,500 word essay entitled “Joey Maynard: My Role Model” to me by the end of the week and we will draw a line under this unfortunate episode.”

Crestfallen, Jennie trailed from the room, convinced that it would take hours to produce anything that would sound genuine and thus pass muster with Miss Bruce. Meanwhile, KB smiled to herself as she poured herself a staple helping of Baileys. Neatly attached to Miss Wilson’s report was a computer print-out, an easy guide to manufacturing ricin from the castor bean plant which she had lifted from the net. She doubted that she would ever have need for it but it made sense to file the instructions away carefully. However unlikely, it was always possible that the Chalet School could be infiltrated by an undesirable or a group of reprobates. Better to be safe than sorry, she thought. After all, this was the Chalet School and goodness knows, stranger things had happened in the past!

#119: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 10:41 am

I feel quite safe to ask for more now!! Very Happy

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

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 10:53 am

oh dear! poor Jennie

*wonder if she will actually write her essay and post it as a drabble?*

Do we really have to wait until tomorrow for the next installment?

#121: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 11:29 am

Yes, because I haven't even begun to write it yet!

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

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 11:31 am

Oh, Okay then!

*goes of to sulk quietly in a corner - not mentioning that people could be writing rather than yibbling cos it would probably only be thrown back at me*

#123: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 11:33 am

It would - and besides, I'm taking a break from writing to yibble! *neglects to mention that it is my thesis that is being written, not stories*

#124: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 12:10 pm

Kb, how could you? I'm the quietest, most inoffensive of people.

#125: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 12:16 pm

...who happens to have an almost unhealthy interest in deadly poisons...

#126: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 12:26 pm

JENNIE

MRS JOSEPHINE MAYNARD

Mrs Josephine Maynard was born Josephine Mary Bettany. Orphaned at the age of six months old, she was brought back from India, the land of her birth, by her older brother and sister, Margaret and Richard Bettany. After the long sea voyage, the three Bettany children went to live in Cornwall with their guardian. Josephine, or as she quickly became known, Jo, or in more affectionate moments, Joey, or Joey Baba, was brought up by her elder sister, whose name within the family was Madge.

It is unclear how Madge Bettany, now Lady Russell, the wife of Sir James Russell the famous TB specialist, managed at once to bring up her baby sister and comply with the law of Great Britain which stated that all young people under a cetain age must be in full-time attendance at school, or be satisfactorily educated at home.

Suffice it to say, Madge Bettany was educated to the extent that when their guardian died, leaving his affairs entangled and his wards with a much diminished income, she was able to propose and accomplish the foundation of a boarding school in the Austrian Tyrol. The beginnings of the school, The Chalet School, which we all have the good fortune to attend, were chronicled By Lady Russell's biographer, Elinor M. Brent Dyer.

The school, which was fortunate enough to have Josephine Mary Bettany as its first pupil, quickly went from strength to strength.

I believe that everyone should read the series written by Miss Brent Dyer so that they are able to recommend this noble tale which delineates the history of these two brave sisters, and tell everyone about them, in fact, they should even tell it to the Marines.

#127: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 12:42 pm

Oooh! Jennie - you are my bad influence Shocked

. How nice Laughing

Now if I get called in, she'll think I've just been led astray, 'cos I'm only young and impressionable.

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

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 12:57 pm

Thanks Rachael - that was great. Slightly concerned that we have all the ingredients fro the manufacture on Ricin on our premises just think what that could do in Holocaust or certain other threads...

*Hoping that the time i spent in the study yesterday might excuse me for a few days at least*

Looking forward to the next installment non-the-less!

#129: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 1:34 pm

JENNIE

One of the main reasons for travelling out to the Tyrol was financial. Life in the Tyrol was cheap, and servants could be hired for very small wages. Another reason for the remove to Austria was Jo Maynard's health. A neglected cold at the age of four had led to pneumonia, and Jo had never really regained her health. This had, however, not prevented her brother from taking up a career in forestry in India.
So, it was decided that the Maynard sisters would begin the school in a location on the shores of the Tiernsee, which had very hot summers and winters dominated by biting winds and snowstorms.

The second pupil to join the school was Grizel Cochrane, the daughter of a neighbour of theirs. Her stepmother disliked her, and the foundation of the Chalet School came as a welcome relief to all concerned. The journey to Austria highlighted the contrast between the two girls. Jo was steeped in history, Grizel lived in the here and now. It is on record, however, that both girls were enchanted with their visit to Versailles and other sites of historical interest as well as the opera in Paris.

Jo quickly displayed her inchoate leadership qualities when she interrupted the game being played by a group of boys in a park in Paris, and harangued them until they were prepared to play with their toy boats in what Jo considered to be a fair way.

On arrival in Austria, they stayed in the city overnight. Here Grizel made a faux-pas which she was never to live down. Knowing only a few words of German, she unwittingly asked the hairdresser to rinse her hair in HolyWater, not hot water. Jo never let her forget this, and had many a merry laugh at Grizel's expense in the years to come, even until the time they were both middle-aged, married to doctors and the mothers of families.

#130: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 1:35 pm

LOL! I can't believe how everyone is taking their "punishment" on board

Psst - KB, perhaps we should be asking for chocolate or something?!

Cool post, Jennie!!

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

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 1:41 pm

How long was this essay to be Jennie?

I like the use of big words. Not sure the tone is entirely complimentary to JMB but maybe thats my interpretation!

#132: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 1:42 pm

*wipes away tears of mirth - that was great Rachael.

Looking forward to more of Jennie's 'punishment' and KB installment tomorrow.

#133: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 1:53 pm

So the School was established and quickly grew to seventeen girls. The first Head girls was Gisela Marani, the elder daughter of the family of a bank cashier. Gisela took her duties seriously, and quickly established a precedent which ensured that the future generations of Chalet girls would be largely self-governing.

Grizel was slower to settle down into the school's ethos, and at the end of an episode of tricks played on the staff by the pupils, refused to be penitent for her trick of covering the blackboards with vaseline. After a couple of days in solitary confinement, Grizel decided to achive one of her ambitions. Leaving the school early one morning, she set out to climb the Tierjoch, a dangerous mountain in the vicinity. After some time spent searching for Grizel, Jo realised where she had gone, and immediately set out to rescue her friend, unfortunately omitting to tell anyone where she had gone. Her act of heroism did ot go unrewarded. After both Jo and Grizel had been rescued, Jo sank into a coma, thus ensuring that the school had two pupils to nurse instead of one. She awoke from her coma and quickly resumed her place in the school.

From this time on, she distinguished herself, not only as editor of the Chaletian, the newly-formed school magazine, but as the person who had the greatest number of near-fatal illnesses in the history of the school. From standing near an open door in winter she had a chest infection, from sneaking out of school in direct defiance of her sister's orders, she bruised herself severely when attanding an ice carnival, and when rescuing a girl from St Scholastika's school, she had a near-death experience from pleuro-pneumonia, gained from falling into a hole in the ice. Her life was saved by the extreme medical measure of the singing of 'The Red Sarafan' by Cecilya Maria Humphreys, who was commonly known as 'The Robin'. This drastic cure was completely successful.

#134: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 2:07 pm

Rachael wrote:

LOL! I can't believe how everyone is taking their "punishment" on board

Psst - KB, perhaps we should be asking for chocolate or something?!

This makes me wonder if I should rethink Abi's punishment - nah!

And chocolate sounds good, Rachael!

*wonders how long Jennie's essay will end up*

#135: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 2:33 pm

After many adventures, J M Bettany eventually reached the UVI form of the Chalet School. Her sister, Madge, now married to Dr James Russell, the founder of the great TB sanatarium on the Sonnalpe, informed Jo that she was to be the next Head Girl. Jo did not agree with this, and refused the honour point-blank. However, she was made to see sense, and became one of the most-loved Head Girls in a long line of Most-Loved Head Girls.

Jo's tenure of this position was enlivened by the arrival of Eustacia Benson in the school. Eustacia's priggish, prim ways quickly gained her the dislike of most of the pupils in the school, and she crowned her unhappiness by running away. When she was found, it was discovered that she had badly wrenched her back, which necessitated her lying flat for many long months. When she was well enough to be moved to the Russells' home from the San, Jo hit upon the idea of integrating Stacie as she was now known, by making her Editor of the Chaletian.

During the time between the faoundation of the school and her becoming Head Girl, Jo formed one of the most enduring relationships of her life. The arrival of Robin Humphreys as school baby just before the start of the Chalet School's second term gave Jo an emotional outlet that had previously been denied to her. At last she had a little sister!

The Robin quickly became an object of worship to Jo, who had previously been described as unsentimental, especially in relationship to Simone, a French girl who was lonely, homesick and desperately wanted a friend, to the extent that she cut off her long pigtail when Jo made it clear that she intended to have all the friends that she wanted to.

Robin. Robinette, my Robin, Rob, all were names bestowed upon Robin by Jo. Jo's friendship for the Robin was deepened by the fear of TB which hung over the child. Her mother had died of TB, and it was feared, after Dr Russell had come along to point it out to them, that the Robin might develop this illness.

When Jo had finished her term as Head Girl, she had to make decisions about her future. She rejected the idea of going to university, decided not to travel to Belsornia to act a Lady-in-Waiting to Elisaveta, the Crown Princess, and instead chose the happiness and fulfilment of going to live with her sister and brother-in-law at Die Rosen, their home on the Sonnalpe, so that she could help out with the children, for by this time, Madge Russell was a mother, about to be very busy again, and in addition had her brother's twins resident with her.

Still, in spite of not having a job, Jo made shift with the handsome allowance which the Russells gave her, and lived very happily on the Sonnalpe for some time, when she was struck with the idea of writing a novel.

This literary ambition was fostered by the need to stay at the School for a whole term, as measles had struck at the Russells' abode, and it was considered ounwise for Jo to return there.

Her first attempt a novel writing was a failure in spite of the fact that her heroine was named Malvina. Matey, seeing waht Jo was busy with, asked toread the embryo work of art, and returned it with the recommendation that Jo learn to write realistic situations and people, not the exaggerated caricatures that her fervid imagination had dreamed up.

..................................................................................

Please Head Mistress, do you want me to continue with this appreciation of Jo Maynard's life?

#136: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 3:30 pm

That was lovely Jennie.

Miss Bruce, I have posted more shocks, since I believe that that is what you needed? I do hope that it isn't too much for you, since you have so little experience dealing with that sort of thing, due to your youth. Twisted Evil

Last edited by Pat on Thu Feb 12, 2004 3:33 pm; edited 1 time in total

#137: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 3:31 pm

In terms of punishment, no .. but for our pleasure, yes please!!

It's fabulous!! Very Happy

#138: Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 4:05 pm

Well done Jennie, you are writing a completely factual autobiography with nothing in it that our estemed HM and her accomplice could take exception to, and yet.........
I loved the way in which Pat's summons had a (happy) twist, and as for the castor beans Rolling Eyes

#139: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 4:18 pm

What about the castor beans?! Wink

Quote:

Well done Jennie, you are writing a completely factual autobiography with nothing in it that our estemed HM and her accomplice could take exception to, and yet.........

Hmmm, I don't know - have we got to the crux as to in what way JMM is a Role Model for Jennie?!! Wink

#140: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 4:20 pm

In child rearing by any chance? Laughing

#141: Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 5:18 pm

Jennie, that was inspired! Nothing to give offence and yet, to us, so damning!

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

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 5:21 pm

Hmm, I would like te role model part to be explained by Jennie as well.

Would like to chant for more from our two authors, but feel that would be both unseemly and unwise on this thread.

#143: Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 5:34 pm

How about we just chant Carolyn and then they won't know if it's for them or for Jennie Very Happy

On second thoughts maybe just hiding would be a good idea, although I'm sure the second prefect has nothing to worry about Confused

#144: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 6:05 pm

Why would the Second Prefect have nothing to worry about?

#145: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 6:12 pm

KB wrote:

Why would the Second Prefect have nothing to worry about?

You aren't allowed to rebuke prefects in public - so surely, you cannot do it on this thread Very Happy

#146: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 6:17 pm

Having taken Matey's words to heart, Jo then set herself the task of writing a novel that would be published. She achieved this, giving the resulting cheque to the poor people of Innsbruck, after she had purchased handsome presents for all her family.

From then on, she wrote a steady stream of best-sellers which made her the envy of other writers.

Alas, the ascent of the Nazi Party in Germany, their determination to rid the world of the Jews, and their annexation of Austria, meant that the school and the San were in danger. The Austrian girls were forced to return to their homes, thus losing the school a valuable part of its income. Mdlle Lepattre, the Headmistress at the time was also very ill. The girls of the CS had formed a Peace League, and all had signed a piece of paper, which, if it had fallen into enemy hands, would have meant that they would all have been imprisoned in concentration camps.

With the threat of war looming over Europe, several noble Chalet girls, Jo amongst them went on an ostensible picnic to hide this paper. They were followed by spies, so failed in their mission. It was however, their attempts to protect a Jewish shopkkeeper form the Nazis that meant that they had to escape from Austria.
The girls of this party, chaperoned by Miss Wilson, a teacher, and with two doctors, Jack Maynard and Bruno, headed for Switzeralnd. They had many narrow escapes from the German soldiers, including one hair-raising time when Jo, acting on the spur of the moment, pretended to be a gypsy. This was dangerous in the extreme, as gypsies were aslo being rounded up to be sent to extermination camps. But one cannot keep a real heroine down. Jo and the rest of her party managed to cross the border into Switzerland, and thence to England.

Jack Maynard then declared his feelings to Jo. She, realising how much she depended on him, agreed to marry him. The wedding ceremony was performed, but Jack and Jo had very little time together to enjoy married life. Jack was called up to serve in the Navy, leaving Jo to help with the restarting of the Chalet School, this time on the Channel Island of Guernsey, and also expecting to very busy in a few months' time.

The school quickly found premises, and by some miracle was able, not only to do up the chosen house, but also to buy the necessary equipment very easily. They also had very few problems in acquiring enough pupils to make the school viable.

However, the greatest event of the year occurred on November the 5th. Jo Maynard gave birth to triplet girls, the first and last triplets ever to be born in their circle of family and friends. Jo never forgot this fact, even as an older woman.

#147: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 6:28 pm

Chelsea wrote:

KB wrote:

Why would the Second Prefect have nothing to worry about?

You aren't allowed to rebuke prefects in public - so surely, you cannot do it on this thread Very Happy

It won't be in public, it will be in the privacy of the study. Would you rather just see people going in and coming out crying?

#148: Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough.......

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 8:42 pm

*giggles wildly at the wonderfulness of this thread!!!!*
More soon please girls!!!!

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

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 8:47 pm

Re rebuking Prefects - both Pat and I qualify so, in private there doesn't seem a problem. Rachael - love the post about Jennie.

Jennie - see you're as determined as I am to obey the Head Miss Bruce. Wink

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

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 8:49 pm

*keeping my head down believing discretion is the only safe option*

#151: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 8:53 pm

*chuckles softly*

#152: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Thu Feb 12, 2004 11:13 pm

More please!!! Evil or Very Mad

#153: Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 4:03 am

Absolutley lovely.

Jennie your 'essay' is superb.

#154: Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 5:59 am

Just discovered this one! Brucie & Rachael, is it?
Possibly should leave the room before respectful expression explodes into laughter.
Not sure Jennie’s essay is sufficiently laudatory, though. Not enough heartfelt enthusiasm, somehow . ROFL

#155: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 10:20 am

Come on Jennie - only another 40-odd books to go!!

#156: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 10:40 am

And only how many more victims to go?! Quite a few I hope! Let's have some more, whoevers turn it is! No slacking here please!!!

#157: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 11:43 am

It's my turn, and more will be along presently, when I get home to post it...

And plenty more victims. Don't worry, Pat, you won't be missed out...

#158: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 12:57 pm

I thought I'd been done! Confused

#159: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 2:47 pm

MRS J MAYNARD

The Chalet School was progressing well in Guernsey, but was obliged to move again as the German Army was about to annex The Channel Islands.

Jo Maynard and her triplets were evacuated from the island on a convenient warship, and returned to England. The School and the San searched for new premises and eventually found them in Armishire, near the Welsh border. The San was re-established, the School was offered Plas Howell, a large mansion, the Russells established themselves at the Round House whilst the Maynards settled into Plas Gwyn. Apart from the inconveniences of wartime, life continued in a pleasant way for the Maynards. Anna who had managed to escape from Austria, found her way to Jo who received her with open arms and gladly gave her a position as maid of all work. Jo generously gave a home to Robin Humphreys and to Daisy and Primula Venables at times. The girls willingly helped in the house, Robin even keeping chickens to help with the food situation.

Jo's second pregnancy resulted in the birth of her first son, Stephen. Fortunately Jo loved children, for it seemed that she had no sooner received the news of a friend or family member being blessed with a happy event than she found that she was to be very busy again. After spending several years happily in Armishire, broken only by a lengthy sojourn in Canada where she gave birth to her first set of twins, she and her family were once more on the move, this time to Switzerland, where the San was to reestablish itself on the Continent, under the direction of her husband. The School was also returning to the Continent, to the very same Gornetz Platz as the San. The Maynards were fortunate to find a large house next door to the school, and moved in after a long and arduous journey across the continent, burdened by several large trunks and many suitcases. It must be assumed that these trunks contained immmensely valuable articles as they were never opened on voyage and their contents were not needed as the family stayed at the school until their possessions arrived several days after their own arrival on the Platz.

They renamed their new house Freudesheim, or happy home, and soon settled in.

#160: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 4:19 pm

At the start of the new term, the girls arrived for the first time at the Swiss branch of the Chalet School. Some of these girls were entirely new o the school and its ethos. In order to help them settle in, Mrs Maynard instituted what became known as her New Girls' Teas. As by now she was a famous authoress, known not only for her books, which were given a prominent place in the School Library, but also as the mother of a long family.

Of course, the boys, as was traditional, had been sent away to prep school in Eengland as soon as they were seven, Mike being sent away from home to do lessons with the Embury boys even earlier, but Mrs Maynard still had six daughters to cope with at home, though by now the riplets were boarders at the school. She quickly proved herself to be a paragon of domestic management as she was assisted only by Anna, her maid of all work and Rosli, the coadjutor, who looked after the children, and with the occasional help of an old girl of the school, such as Beth Chester and Maria Marani.

Mrs Maynard's teas for the new girls soon became a byword in the school and many an envious glance was cast at those favoured with an invitation.
How to describe such an event? To be welcomed so warmly, to be called 'My lamb', to be told that if there were any problems, Mrs Maynard would sort them out. To be urged to wire in to the sandwiches, to be pressed to eat yet another cake composed of honey, nuts and cream, closely followed by the majority of a box of Swiss milk chocolates. Such utter bliss, especially when given the opportunity to slide round the floor of the Saal on rugs, followed by a hectic round of paper games, then to be told to run back to school because there were only three minutes left before the bell for Abendessen. It would be an ungrateful girl indeed who asked for more than an opportunity to sit enthralled and look through the Maynard family albums at photographs of the first days of the school and to listen with bated breath to Mirs Maynard's tales of her adventures, such as the time they went on a picnic to celebrate her sister's birthday, forgot the lemonade and were all then trapped in a shepherd's hut by a storm.

#161: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 4:23 pm

*loving your 'punishment', Jenny

I never thought about the trunks that they took Wink

#162: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 4:28 pm

This is great Jennie!

#163: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 4:32 pm

I believe that Joey Maynard is a role-model for all who wish to become known as true Chalet School girls.

Firstly we should emulate, or strive to, her talent for languages. She speaks fluent French and German, knows some Italian and Russian, and even has a smattering of Hindustani. Surprisingly, though, she knows only one or two Welsh phrases in spite of having lived in a Welsh-speaking area for several years. This may an example of a talent for foreign languages, not for those spoken in the British Isles, with the exception of English, of course.

She is a living example of how we should never lose our girlishness, and always claim to be a Chalet School girl until the day we die. She teaches us to remember our school with gratitude, for the ideas which it instills in us, such as the principle that marriage and families ought to mean more to us than lucrative careers, unless we are fortunate enough to have a talent for literature, be married to a doctor and have eleven children.

She is a shining example of British motherhood, taking her babies for a walk every morning, and training her older children to help the servants perform household duties. All this, and a best selling novelist.

That is why I consider Mrs Jo Maynard to be a role-model for me and for every true Chalet Girl.

#164: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 4:37 pm

Well Jennie, I just hope that Brucie will accept that for your punishment! Laughing

Do you think she can see much below the surface? Twisted Evil

#165: Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 4:39 pm

Moi? you wouldn't be accusing me of irony, would you, Pat? See beneath the surface?

#166: Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet!

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 4:42 pm

Great essay Jennie.

May we have more drabble please Smile

#167: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 4:44 pm

Jennie wrote:

Moi? you wouldn't be accusing me of irony, would you, Pat? See beneath the surface?

Looking forward to KB reading it!

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

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 5:16 pm

Loved your essay, and so quickly done. Was it 1500 words, or longer? Wonder what KB will think.

No one seems to be in trouble today, maybe we've all been good girls, or maybe we haven't been caught!

#169: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 5:27 pm

Pat wrote:

I thought I'd been done! Confused

You might deserve another go! Wink

Miss Bruce swirled the latest glassful of Baileys and ice in her glass and mentally thanked her habit of hunting out weird and wonderful things on the Net. Had it not been for that, she might never have discovered this glass that looked like it contained orange juice, which she could then leave in open sight on her desk rather than having to hide it away.

Looking around the room, she noted the small but important changes that had taken plcae since the unfortunate accident that had taken Miss Annersley from the school – permanently. Rumours had gone around the staff room that Rachel – known by her fellow Seniors as The Witch – had been involved, but it had been deemed wiser not to ask too many questions, as those who had too much to do with Rachel frequently found themselves on the receiving end of rather nasty surprises. KB decided to put off summoning Rachel until another day and sent a maid to bring Abi to the study.

Rising, she got out a package she had prepared and removed the various objects within it, laying them out on the floor before sitting down again, just in time.

Abi entered and gave the traditional curtsey, much as it went against the grain to do so. She had lectured the other prefects on the fact that the school had moved into the modern age, and so it was surely a lowering of their dignity to do so, but no one else had had the courage to argue after Jo Maynard, who had been passing and had shamelessly listened in, finished with the Juniors Prefect.

The girl’s eyes widened at the sight of the objects on the rug – these were some of her very favourite torture devices! Had the Head gone mad and was she going to make Abi a present?

Miss Bruce knew what the girl was thinking – those telepathic classes had been worth every penny – and her eyes twinkled evilly. “Good morning, Abi,” she said, careful not to reveal any of her feelings in her voice.

Abi looked up, startled, having forgotten where she was in her glee. “Good morning, B – Miss Bruce,” she replied, only just remembering in time that to call a mistress, and particularly the Head, by her nickname was not the done thing.

“It has been brought to my attention,” Miss Bruce remarked, “that you have, of late, become infested with some of the silliness that occasionally springs up in this school. In fact, you have become so badly infected that you scares the Juniors every time you saw them – and being Juniors Prefect, that happens quite regularly!”

“If you please,” Abi interrupted, thinking that she might as well get her side of the story aired, as it was obvious from Brucey’s voice that she wasn’t getting away with anything, “I got away from being Juniors prefect as quickly as possibly!”

“But now you’re Hobbies Prefect,” Miss Bruce retorted, “and you’re terrifying the Middles, too, with all your talk of swords and vacuum cleaners and pencils. Not to mention ricin!”

“Maybe if I posted more…”

“Then you would terrify my staff, and they are already suffering enough thanks to Pat Mac,” KB snapped. She took a deep breath and composed herself. “I would have you trade posts with Lesley and do pets, but these days animal psychiatrists are more expensive than those for humans, so I think we will leave that situation as it is.”

Abi was hugely relieved, as she was terrified of animals, and although she had, during her very brief stint in that post, despatched several of them with her sword, the distress this had caused to the pets’ owners had taken quite some time to quieten down.

“Now,” Miss Bruce continued, “I have had numerous reports from various member of staff, and all have begged me to do something that will help them. Short of removing you from every class and have you hemming sheets with Matron every day – the one you call ‘Evil Matey’, of course – I would like to make the punishment fit the crime. Move to the middle of the room.”

Only when Miss Bruce plugged in and turned on the vacuum cleaner did Abi begin to suspect that the Head was going to behave most literally and started to worry. She edged away, but was brought back by the Head’s sharp order as the vacuum cleaner sucked off her badly sewn-on buttons, as well as the patch she had tried to attach with glue instead of having to sew it into place, and both of those would get her into trouble with Matey. Then, however, the vacuum cleaner sucked at her skin, leaving red marks that, anywhere else, might be thought of as love-bites, but in the almost exclusively all-female environment of the Chalet School, would be known as the same sorts of marks as had appeared on the Juniors after one of Abi’s games.

She tried to focus on the wallpaper, but it had been replaced with a pattern that, if started at for too long, induced nausea. Instead, she noticed that the Head had put down the vacuum cleaner and picked up a pencil. The point was sharp and Abi jumped as it pricked her skin, occasionally finding spots tender enough to draw blood.

Two items remained on the floor. One was a sword and the other, bizarrely enough, was a bar of soap. This the Head picked up next and stalked over to her trembling victim.

“You like to bite,” Miss Bruce said in a deceptively calm voice. “Very well, every time you bite someone, you will come here and bite this.” She held it out, but Abi, mustering every bit of courage she had left, shook her head.

“No,” she whimpered, being on the verge of tears by now, “I won’t.”

“If you don’t bite it,” KB purred, “then I shall bite you. Take your choice.”

Shuddering, as the Head showed off a mouthful of pearly-whites, which Abi was able to quickly count, she took the bar of soap and bit into it. It tasted surprisingly good! She chewed and swallowed the mouthful, and was about to take another when Miss Bruce took the bar from her.

“No, my dear,” she said gently, “I’m sure you don’t want any more.”

To Abi’s surprise, she found herself agreeing. The memory of the last twenty minutes faded, as did the pain of her injuries, and she smiled at the Head.

“Thank you, Miss Bruce,” she said. “Is that all?”

“Yes, Abi,” the Head replied, taking her seat again. “You may go and rejoin the others.”

As the door closed behind the formerly troublesome girl, KB smiled and rose to collect the sword, which would have been used to threaten Abi into eating the drug, had that been necessary. As it wasn’t, the sword could be put away for another day and KB knew it would be some time before Abi would need to be called before her again.

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

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 5:35 pm

Priceless!! Laughing

Poor Abi, wish I was going to be here when she sees this!!

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

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 5:41 pm

Those useful headmistress drugs!

#172: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 5:42 pm

Oh, yes, I forgot to give credit where credit is due - the Advent drabble! My apologies!

#173: Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 6:04 pm

*is now suitably terrified of KB

#174: Author: Rosie, Location: Huntingdonshire

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 6:24 pm

*runs away wibbling in a terrified fashion*
*wonders if threatening people with the not-very-edible omlette I just 'cooked' would help matters...*

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

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 6:45 pm

If KB is using the advent drabbles for material then I must have a degree of immunity. Yipee!! popper

#176: Author: KB, Location: Melbourne, Australia

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 6:49 pm

*smiles at Carolyn's naivete*

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

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 6:51 pm

I've just caught up with this and it's brilliant, thank you KB and Rachael ~ And Jennie, your essay was wonderful![/i]

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

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 10:22 pm

Thank you for that KB!

#179: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 10:24 pm

Oh ... ow ... ROFLMAO ... ROFL

Jennie - quite fabulous!! I for one am preapred to overlook any excess over 1,500

KB - wonderful!
*still laughing\8

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

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 10:33 pm

*laughing very very undecorously!*

I love it all, KB - but this line is my favourite:

KB wrote:

“If you don’t bite it,” KB purred, “then I shall bite you. Take your choice.”

#181: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 10:37 pm

Ouf, rofl

*hopes very much never to have to be called to KB's study. Mental note: behave!

#182: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 11:50 pm

I don't think you have a hope, Pim..Then again, as a very new junior she may be merciful.

The prefects though- that's another thing! Rachael! here's a suggestion. Do Vikki and Carolyn and Chloe before you go any further down the list! Laughing

#183: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Fri Feb 13, 2004 11:58 pm

[quote="KB"]

Pat wrote:

I thought I'd been done! Confused

You might deserve another go! Wink

What have i done now?!! I'm slaughtered in Holocaust, along with my family! i'm one of the first to get called to the study, and now I'm being threatened again? Shocked

#184: Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly!

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 12:05 am

Lisa_T wrote:

I suppose I'd best just cross my fingers then?? lol

#185: Author: Rachael,

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 12:17 am

*spooky*
I've completed one of them, halfway through the next and mind racing as to what to do with the third .....

Hey-ho - will leave you to consider who's who! Wink

(but that's very definitely spooky!!)

#186: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 12:24 am

Well if you've got at least one written, why can't we read it yet may I ask?

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

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 12:30 am

Rachael wrote:

*spooky*
I've completed one of them, halfway through the next and mind racing as to what to do with the third .....

Hey-ho - will leave you to consider who's who! Wink

(but that's very definitely spooky!!)

I'm not sure wether I'd reather be finished, half done, or making Rachael's mind race...all three sound rather worrying! Confused

#188: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 12:33 am

Carolyn, stop being a spineless jellyfish!

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

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 12:42 am

There is nothing spineless about being rather worried! In fact I can feel my spine very easily, the bumps beneath the fat on my back, it's definatly there and rather tense at the moment for some reason!

#190: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 12:45 am

Chicken then?! Very Happy

#191: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 12:58 am

ROFL! Carolyn, I don't at all blame you for being worried. I mean, Lesley was bad enough and her achievements pale rather next to yours. At least (as she so often reminds us) she hasn't actually killed anyone. You, on the other hand...
BTW, which of you killed KB in Holocaust?! Laughing

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

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 12:58 am

Cluck cluck cluck.

#193: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 1:05 am

Carolyn you've just given me a real sense of deja vu but i dont think anyone will understand it if i explain. No other MHGS people here? No? Didn't think so. *giggle*

Rachael come on and don't be annoying! POOOOST!

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

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 1:07 am

Lisa_T wrote:

ROFL! Carolyn, I don't at all blame you for being worried. I mean...BTW, which of you killed KB in Holocaust?! Laughing

Shh, I was hoping to avoid mention of that in this thread. Confused

#195: Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 1:08 am

Bit late now, isn't it? *cheeky grin*

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

Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2004 1:12 am

Thank you!

I'm sure you will get yours as well.

#197: Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster