SYBIL'S REVENGE
The CBB -> Cookies & Drabbles

#1: SYBIL'S REVENGE Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Sep 10, 2004 1:45 pm


The small sparkling purple leaf not only came back from a very long holiday yesterday evening, he also bit me several times on the ankle. Here are the results:

Sybil Russell lay cosily in bed in the late evening before her wedding.

Her mother had advised her to get a good night's sleep, adding the words, 'Tomorrow you've got a long day ahead of you.' and then with a slight suggestion of a blush, 'And probably a late night too.'

Sybil smiled to herself. If only her dear mother knew what Sybil and Charles had planned for the evening and night, she'd have a fit. Part of Sybil, just a tiny part, felt very sorry for her mother's embarrassment and naivety, but the larger part of her did not. Really, her mother might have just stepped out of the Ark, she was so old-fashioned with her hints and little suggestions.

Then Sybil had to laugh aloud; the letters she had received from her Aunt Jo had been just as bad, a lot of innuendo, a few hints, then lots of guff about when the babies came, and how much she was looking forward to seeing Sybil as a new mother. And here, Sybil laughed so much that she nearly cried.

If they only knew, oh, if they only knew.

 


#2:  Author: LulieLocation: Middlesbrough PostPosted: Fri Sep 10, 2004 1:48 pm


If only WE knew as well!!

 


#3:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Fri Sep 10, 2004 1:50 pm


*pats Jennie's bunnie*

Great beginning, I think I'm going to enjoy this!!

 


#4:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Sep 10, 2004 2:07 pm


*waits patiently for a turn at patting Jennie's bunny*

My mind has already run to several scenarios already Embarassed

 


#5:  Author: Ruth BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Fri Sep 10, 2004 2:12 pm


Good start, but I agree with Lulie - we need to know too!

 


#6:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Fri Sep 10, 2004 2:23 pm


This looks to be extremely promising! Thank you, Jennie!

 


#7:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Fri Sep 10, 2004 2:41 pm


Yay a new drabble from Jennie. Wonderful! Looking forward to finding out what Sybil has planned!

 


#8:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Sep 10, 2004 4:28 pm


Thanks for the flowers!

Sybil snuggled down again, and dropped off to sleep, secure in the knowledge that her parents would be there in Australia for many months to come.

When she awoke the next morning, she was pleased to see that it was a fine day with a light breeze gently blowing the tops of the trees. She got out of bed and began to run her bath, putting in a couple of generous handfuls of bath-salts. Above all, she wanted to avoid having her mother come in to wake her up, and perhaps make yet another attempt to tell her what she might expect on her wedding night.

'The poor old dear gets so embarrassed,' Sybil thought with a chuckle. 'It's far kinder to her to avoid it at any cost. She just can't bring herself to tell me, and she doesn't want to ask me if I know, and she just gets so red, and stutters. Still, if she does try to, it will be a good laugh.'

She got into her steaming bath, and slid under the hot water, ready for a luxuriously long soak. This was far better than all those ghastly cold baths she'd had to have in Switzerland, or, been supposed to have had. Did the school authorities really think that all the girls got into a cold bath every morning? They were just a waste of water really. Oh well, those days were over, thank goodness, and as the wife of a rich man, Sybil would soon be rejoicing in having a personal maid to run her bath and look after her clothes.

She knew that her parents didn't really like Hugh, but then, they weren't marrying him, she was. They would have preferred to see her married to Peter Murray, a young doctor, but there was no way that she, Sybil, was going to run a house and everything on a doctor's income, especially not when said young doctor was hoping to go and work at a small outback hospital. That was not what Sybil had planned for herself, no way!

Her thoughts turned to her coming wedding. It was going to cost the parents a pretty penny, every time her father had objected to something on the grounds of expense, she'd sulked and grumbled until he'd given in. After all, she was his oldest daughter, and she deserved a good send-off.

 


#9:  Author: BookwormsarahLocation: Cambridge, UK PostPosted: Fri Sep 10, 2004 4:47 pm


I can't remember anything about Sybil's marriage from the books - it's a long while since I read the later ones...Got a little confused over the Charles/Hugh bit...

*love* the idea of Madge trying to have the Wedding Night talk with Sybil and getting embarrased, and of the girls failing to actually take the cold baths. I've long thought that had I been in the situation I'd have 'shirked' and had a warm splash in the sink!

 


#10:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Fri Sep 10, 2004 5:52 pm


Ditto!

And woohoo! A new Jennie drabble Very Happy More soon please!

 


#11:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Sep 10, 2004 6:08 pm


Good for Sybil! She's doing what SHE wants!

*on tenterhooks here*

 


#12:  Author: claireLocation: South Wales PostPosted: Fri Sep 10, 2004 6:22 pm


Is it too soon to start a chant?

 


#13:  Author: XantheLocation: London/Cambridge PostPosted: Fri Sep 10, 2004 7:56 pm


It is NEVER too soon to start chanting...

 


#14:  Author: MarianneLocation: Lancaster PostPosted: Fri Sep 10, 2004 9:09 pm


ooooo, interesting

MORE please

 


#15:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Fri Sep 10, 2004 9:09 pm


*Joins in the Chant*

This is looking good Jennie. But I'm guessing I'm not the only one who wants to know what the thing that if they only knew was?

(I realise the above sentence may not actually make sense, but it expresses what I'm feeling perfectly so tongue)

JackieJ

 


#16:  Author: Helen PLocation: Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Sep 10, 2004 9:35 pm


*Chants along with the rest*

Most intriguing Jennie - looking forward to having our questions answered!

 


#17:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Sep 10, 2004 10:07 pm


Looking really good, Jennie - love Sybil in this. Laughing

 


#18:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 3:58 pm


All will be revealed later.

That enough teasing for you all?

 


#19:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 4:01 pm


Evil Jennie! Evil or Very Mad

*hopes later = soon*

 


#20:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 4:04 pm


Mwahahahahahahahah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Twisted Evil Twisted Evil Twisted Evil Twisted Evil Twisted Evil Twisted Evil

 


#21:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Sat Sep 11, 2004 9:41 pm


I thought that was an update!! Jennie, may we have some more, please?

 


#22:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sun Sep 12, 2004 11:26 am


Tomorrow! I've just popped on to the board for a few minutes today whilst Andrew's out, so I haven't got time to put any more on.

 


#23:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Sun Sep 12, 2004 4:46 pm


Glad to see Sybil is all the daughter of the school founder should be (not)!

Will wait with great patience until tomorrow.

 


#24:  Author: CazxLocation: Swansea/Bristol PostPosted: Sun Sep 12, 2004 8:07 pm


I'm looking forward to reading this (and all the other drabbles I've missed) when I go back to uni and a hopefully decent internet connection!

 


#25:  Author: Ruth BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 8:46 am


Jennie, its tomorrow now!

Can't believe there's been no update all weekend!

 


#26:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 12:53 pm


After everyone else in the family had hammered at the bathroom door several times, Sybil decided that it was time for her to get out of the bath. Besides, she'd used most of the hot water. She dried herself off using the best towels, then put on her bathrobe and slowly walked back to her bedroom, where she began to smooth a lovely peach-scented lotion all over herself.

She was interrupted in this occupation by her mother who came into her room without knocking, only to back out hastily when she saw Sybil's state of undress. With a little smile just curving her lips, Sybil carried on with what she was doing. She was just beginning to spray herself with the perfume she had chosen when her mother came in again.

Her words were not conciliatory.

'Sybil, you've used most of the hot water, and Daddy is rather annoyed with you. Really, it was a selfish thing for you to do, spending so long in the bath. And really, what were you doing to yourself with that smelly stuff? You know Daddy and I don't approve of all that stuff.'

Sybil's smile widened a little.

'Hugh bought it for me, he asked me to use it especially for today. He is my bridegroom, you know, and you've always told me that a good wife tries to please her husband. I did get up early to have my bath, Mummy, and then I fell to thinking about my life, and all the times we've had together, so I'm afraid I was dreaming rather. Now, I must hurry to start getting dressed, the hairdresser will be here soon to do my hair, and yours, so you really ought to be getting ready. After all, you don't want to be late for my wedding, do you?'

Having effectively spiked her mother's guns, Sybil turned away to pick up the delicate lacy ivory underwear that she had purchased to go under her wedding dress. She waited until her mother had left the room in a state of high embarrassment before she allowed herself to laugh.

The next thing that she knew was that Josette was bouncing into her room saying,'Sybs, you're absolutely rotten, you've taken most of the hot water, Daddy's fuming, Mummy's almost in tears, and I've got to make do with a..'

'Have a cold bath, sister dearest.' snapped Sybil. 'After all you used to enjoy them when we were at school, didn't you?'

Just then, Josette noticed the underwear that Sybil was about to put on.

'What on earth is that? You know Mummy and Daddy will never let you wear that, why, it's, it's indecent!'

Sybil looked at her coldly, then replied in an icy voice, ' It's my wedding day today, Josette, and I'll wear what I damn well choose. Now I would suggest that you mind your own business, get out of my room, and go to get ready. The hairdresser will be here soon, and God knows, that mop of yours will take some doing, so hurry up and get ready for her. If I have to have you as my bridesmaid, at least you could do your best to look decent for once.'


Last edited by Jennie on Mon Sep 13, 2004 1:39 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#27:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 1:35 pm


Wonderful family interaction between Madge and Sybil and Sybil and Josette. Poor Madge I started to feel sorry for then saw that she is still trying to run Sybil's life for her!

It all goes to show what sheltered lifes the girls led.

 


#28:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 1:54 pm


Josette almost ran out of the room, trying to hold back her tears. Why was Sybs behaving like this? It had taken a long time before Sybil had agreed to have her, her own sister, as a bridesmaid, and Sybs had thrown a huge tantrum when their mother had suggested that Sybil might like to have a smaller wedding and spend the rest of the money on the airfares for the triplets to fly over to be her bridesmaids.

There had been another huge tantrum when her mother had suggested a lovely dark gold silk for the bridesmaids' dresses. It would have suited Josette beautifully, but Sybs was having none of it. Instead, she had chosen a pink and green floral pattern which Josette had hated on sight, but Sybil had been adamant. There had been quite an argument, but Sybil had won the day, saying that she and Hugh had chosen the material together, and it was what Hugh wanted.

A little later, Madge came into Sybil's room, clearly upset.

'Why did you speak to Josette in that unkind way, Sybil? You know that she's been longing to be your bridesmaid. Now, this isn't the way you were brought up, you mustn't be so selfish........'

Sybil broke in. 'Mother, it is my wedding day today, and all anyone keeps saying to me is that I'm selfish and thoughtless. Do you want me to walk up the aisle with my eyes red from crying? I'd appreciate a little peace and quiet for my last morning as an unmarried girl, but no-one seems to have thought of that. Now, I'm going to the kitchen to get myself some breakfast as no-one seems to have thought of offering me as much as a cup of tea. Then, I'm coming back into my bedroom to get on with my preparations. If you'll excuse me!'

With that, Sybil swept out of her room, smiling on the outside and seething inside.

'Just let them wait.' she thought. 'Just let them wait.'

 


#29:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 1:57 pm


*Wonders what Jennie has planned*

Please may we have some more!!

*Begins a chant*

 


#30:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 1:59 pm


It's too early for a chant, Ally. I'm working the next bit out, so please be patient for a few hours. I'll be back this evening.

 


#31:  Author: Ruth BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 2:07 pm


Its never too early for chanting Jennie! However, we'll be good.

*Sits down patiently to wait for the next bit*

 


#32:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 3:04 pm


*joins in chant, albeit very quietly*

Thank you very much, Jennie! Don't worry, we'll read more whenever it comes.

*wondering what on earth's going on*

 


#33:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 4:21 pm


Sybil came back to her room with another cup of tea. She hadn't wanted much breakfast, not because she was nervous, but because she didn't want anything to spoil the smooth line of her wedding dress, and she was taking no chances.

She sat in her very pretty dressing gown, and daintily sipped the tea whilst she waited for the hairdresser to arrive. Fortunately, Hugh had given Sybil a bank account of her own as well as a handsome sum of money to spend in the run-up to the wedding, so she had been able to engage the hairdresser that she wanted to have, not the one her mother had chosen. Sybil knew just how she wanted her hair to look on this important day and had already discussed it with the hairdresser.

Just then there was a tap on the door, and her new personal maid came in. Sybil was very pleased to see her as that meant that her mother would make the room over-crowded, and would not be able to stand there giving instructions and fussing over the style that Sybil had chosen. Really, her mother was the limit at times. So old-fashioned and such a fuss-pot. And the maid would be able to help her into her dress. She blessed Hugh with all her heart for thinking of this and sending the maid to her.

The truth was that Sybil was genuinely glad to be getting married and leaving home. She thought bitterly of her parents' reason for dragging out here to Australia. 'Your mother will be lonely out there by herself, so you and Josette will be coming with us, and no arguments about it.'

So she, Sybil, was getting married today, and Josette was already engaged and planning to marry early next year, and their parents had not uttered a single word about her mother's loneliness, not one word, not when it meant that her two oldest daughters were getting married.

 


#34:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 4:26 pm


Oooh, very evil!

Begins another chant for more *smiles sweetly at Jennie*

 


#35:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 6:21 pm


*Always thought that extremely selfish of Madge.*

Thanks Jennie - this is great! Hugh sounds perfect.

 


#36:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 6:40 pm


That last paragraph really made me think, it is so true. There were never any complaints that her daughters would live on the otherside of the world. Really like Sybil in this!!

 


#37:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 6:49 pm


Sybil looked at herself in her dressing-table mirror. The upswept style with curls piled on top of her head was absolutely perfect for the dress and for the tiara-like headdress and veil that she had chosen.

The maid helped her into her dress and did up the fastenings at the back, then Sybil sat down again carefully and held her head steady whilst the hairdresser carefully manoeuvred the tiara into position, pinned it in place and then attached the veils.

Her mother bustled in, she too was dressed with her hair done, with hat and gloves already on.

She looked at Sybil and her first words were, 'Oh Sybil, that style is far too old and sophisticated for you. It's just not right for a girl of your age. Is there time for it to be done again, properly this time?'

Before Sybil could speak, the hairdresser intervened.
'I'm afraid there simply isn't time now, Lady Russell. I have to be off to my next appointment. I'm glad to say that Miss Russell is pleased with the style which is what the dress needs, and what we had already arranged to do, in any case.'

With that, she gathered together her hairdressing things, put them in her case, and left.

Sybil and her mother were left together, the maid having taken herself out of the room in the wake of the hairdresser.

Madge looked at her daughter and saw a slim, beautiful young woman clad in a gorgeous gown with a close fitting bodice embroidered lavishly with seed pearls, a full sweeping skirt, and long embroidered sleeves sleeves. Her small tiara was made of seed pearls and crystals.

'I do wish that you'd chosen white instead of ivory, Sybil. It would have pleased your father so much to take his daughter down the aisle dressed in pure white.'

'Perhaps you'd better go now, Mother. You may have forgotten this, but it's my wedding day today, and so far, all I've heard from you is criticism and complaints. I chose ivory silk for my dress because it suits me better than white. I helped to design this dress because it's what I wanted in a wedding dress. I'm sorry that it doesn't suit you, but then it's not your dress and you're not wearing it.

'If you only knew how much I'm longing to get married and leave home, you would be very surprised. You have my word on that, and I keep my word.'

'I, I don't know what you mean, Sybil,' faltered Madge. 'I'm sure that your father and I want what's best for you, and after all, we do know......'

'Please leave now Mother, before either of us says anything more.'

With that, Sybil deliberately turned her back on her mother who could nothing but make a hurried exit from the room.

 


#38:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 6:52 pm


Sybilhas a lot of anger there, doesn't she? Are we going to see it released once she is married?

 


#39:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 6:55 pm


*sigh* If only Madge Bettany knew what she would become! I feel so sorry for Sybil!

 


#40:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 6:55 pm


I'm afraid that I haven't written that bit yet, not that I'm actually doing the writing, Sybil seems to have taken over!

 


#41:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 6:56 pm


The sign of a good story!

 


#42:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 6:57 pm


Thanks for the flowers.

 


#43:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 7:55 pm


Sybil took several deep breaths until she began to calm down. She realised that there would e very little use in losing her temper now, after all, revenge was a dish best eaten cold.

She wished that her mother had managed, just once, to listen to her. If she hadn't made an enormous fuss, she would have had a very meagre wedding, just so that the triplets could come over to be her bridesmaids. No way. Sybil still hadn't forgiven her Aunt Jo for advising against having Sybil as a bridesmaid, and she still hadn't forgiven her for telling her, with an insufferable air of superiority, that Josette's accident was all Sybil's fault, because her mother had 'been a good mother to her'. So there was no way that those triplets were coming anywhere near her wedding.

Then there was Sybil's dress. She knew what she wanted and what suited her, so she had had to fight for that instead of the skimpy little white thing that her parents had argued for. Not likely, she hadn't been prepared to put up with what her mother considered to be a properly maidenly dress. And the bridesmaids' dresses, that ghastly tan material that her mother thought was so lovely, it would have ruined her wedding to have her bridesmaids dressed in that, especially with the puffed sleeves that her mother had wanted.

No, this time, Sybil was determined, she was the one who was getting married so she was the one who was going to be the centre of attention for once. When she had been very young, she had not realised that she was her parents' second child and oldest daughter, she had thought that she was the sixth, and that was why she got so little of her mother's attention. It had always seemed to Sybil that every time she had settled down to do something with her mother, just a few minutes of having a story read to her, one of the older ones would get into some sort of trouble and her mother would be called away, no more story for Sybil, no more attention. No wonder, once she had discovered that she was their daughter and the others weren't, that she had made such a fuss and seemed jealous. She had been a child who wanted to know that her parents loved her, but she had never felt secure.

Oh, she had felt sorry for Peggy and Rix, not seeing their parents for so many years, and sorry for Daisy and Primula, their father dead, then their mother slowly slipping away, leaving them orphaned, but they had always seemed to come before her when it came to getting the cuddles and affection. Whenever she had made a fuss, she had been told not to be selfish and jealous; no-one seemed to realise that she wanted parental love and attention. Even when her father had come to visit them when she was away on the Yorkshire Moors with her Aunt and her friends, she had had her father to herself for just two precious hours, otherwise Aunt Jo and her friends and their affairs had taken up her father's time. And she had noticed that Aunt Jo was very, very willing to leave her children to the other aunts, and to Sybil herself.

Sybil liked Phoebe Peters, she was as kind as could be, in fact it was seeing her embroidery that had inspired Sybil to be a needleworker herself. But, they had spent so much time sorting out Phoebe that Sybil was left with the children, and it had been no easy matter to wash and tidy three little girls at the same time before meals.

 


#44:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 8:02 pm


This is really insightful Jennie! Poor Sybs Sad

 


#45:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 8:02 pm


A really interesting view of Sybil's childhood and much closer to the truth than *Madge as a good mother* I'm glad she hasn't forgotton Jo's treatment of her.

 


#46:  Author: claireLocation: South Wales PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 8:12 pm


Sybil's feeling do seem right somehow (and good for her insisting on having what SHE wants, it's her wedding not Madge's - really Madge is lucky she didn't elope), I wonder if Josette is as chuffed to get out of the family home?
OOH - just though maybe Syb's revenge is to embarrass her parents by publically jilting her fiance, but then she wouldn't get away so maybe not

 


#47:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 8:16 pm


There's no danger of that, Claire.

 


#48:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 8:23 pm


Love this Jennie - and can so empathise with Sybil.

 


#49:  Author: Helen PLocation: Cheshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 13, 2004 10:17 pm


This is so interesting! I started off reading the drabble thinking Sybil was behaving like a selfish b*tch - but now I can really understand why she is behaving that way - I never thought deeply about how she must have felt, growing up, before.

I'll never see Sybil in quite the same way again - thanks Jennie!

 


#50:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 9:03 am


This is great Jennie - feeling very sorry for poor Sybil. Hope Madge and Jem get their comeuppance for being so un-understanding

 


#51:  Author: Ruth BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 9:42 am


This is great Jennie - I can completely understand why Sybil is acting this way.

Thought: If Sybil's hairstyle is too grown up and sophisticated, isn't she too young to be getting married?

 


#52:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 12:04 pm


Really disliking Madge in this. Poor Sybil, these day she could have got a flad and had her independance but that was not sp easy then.

 


#53:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 12:25 pm


I love the way you have changed Sybil in this, from starting with her seeming to be a selfish so and so, the trad CS viewpoint of her to the turning it bit by bit toi make us more and more sympathetic to her. She deserves some sympathy as well. Looking forward to seeing her revenge.

 


#54:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 2:52 pm


Ooooh... I'm definitely sympathising with Sybil now. I'm not wanting revenge against my mother, but being able to talk about the wedding without her making little suggestions would be nice. We're paying for the thing, it's our wedding, so we say what goes.

Ahem, rant over. This is shaping up good though Jennie, can't wait for more. (and I presume that Joey can't come as she's currently in labour, still Wink )

JackieJ

 


#55:  Author: Ruth BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 2:58 pm


JackieJ wrote:
and I presume that Joey can't come as she's currently in labour, still Wink JackieJ


LOL!

Can't wait for more of this Jennie!

 


#56:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 4:22 pm


Why do you think I've left her in the labour ward?



Sybil sat down again very carefully, taking care not to crease her dress. She knew that it would be at least fifteen minutes before the car arrived to take her mother and Josette to the church, and she wanted to make sure that she avoided any more hostilities between herself and her parents. This was not to be.

Josette came bustling in, arrayed in her bridesmaid's dress with a wreath of pink rosebuds and delicate green leaves in her hair, to announce with some importance, 'Daddy wants to see you in the drawing room, he says it's about time he saw what he's spent so much money on'

Sybil realised that she had no alternative, she would have to face them both together. She rose and went to the door, but as she was walking towards it, Josette burst out,' You're being such a bitch today, Sybs. Why can't you realise how much you've upset Mummy. It's a big day for her today, why can't you understand that?'

Sybil realised with an inward sigh that her parents would never, ever understand her, or even make the slightest attempt to do so.

She let nothing of this show on her face, merely carried on walking towards the door, and then coolly told her sister, 'If it's a big day for Mother, please try to remember that it's an even bigger one for me.'

She swept past Josette and into the drawing room. Her father was standing there with a scowl on his face.

'Well, it's high time that you came out of that bedroom, Sybil. How dare you upset your mother so much on a day that's so important to her?'

'Why is it so important for Mother? Have you forgotten that the real reason that it's a big, important day is that I'm getting married? I spent the time in my bedroom because I was preparing myself to get married. Have you forgotten the lecture you gave me? The one that told me that marriage is an important step, that spiritual preparation is as important as all the clothes and dresses? So when I try to prepare myself for my wedding, I'm accused of being selfish and thoughtless.'

'Sybil, if you weren't getting married today, if you weren't already dressed for the ceremony, I give you my word.....'

Sybil interrupted him. 'Well, we know what that's worth, don't we?'

She smiled sweetly at him, leaving the usually urbane and articulate Sir James Russell to go white around the mouth, and splutter himself into silence.

 


#57:  Author: Ruth BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 4:25 pm


Thank you Jennie!

Hoping there will be more of this tomorrow morning!

Did Jem go white with rage or with fear?

 


#58:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 4:31 pm


Go Sybil!!!

I love the way Josette seems to be a total spoilt brat! Very Happy

 


#59:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 4:35 pm


Oooh, what does Sybs mean, has the wonderful Sir James been less than honest in the past?

Please may we have some more?

JackieJ

 


#60:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 4:38 pm


They gave their word to Sybil that if she worked hard at school, she would have two years or more at the School of Art Needlework in London, but when Jem had to go out to Australia, Madge went with him, and the girls had to go with them so Madge wouldn't feel lonely. Sybil had kept her side of the bargain, but they they didn't keep their word.

 


#61:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 4:41 pm


Embarassed I forgot about that Embarassed

*sidles away in embarassment*

JackieJ

 


#62:  Author: Amanda MLocation: Wakefield PostPosted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 4:50 pm


I like this Sybil. It's wonderful to hear her standing up to Madge and Jem (and Josette)!

Just wondering WHAT the revenge best served cold is going to be Confused

Star Wars

 


#63:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 5:23 pm


Good for Sybil - hope Jem and Madge feel suitably guilty - but it's unlikely!

Thanks Jennie! Smile

 


#64:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Sep 14, 2004 6:19 pm


I always felt Sybil was hard done by in not being able to follow her chosen career. I'm not surprised she is feeling this way but do hope she is marrying the right person for the right reasons and not just so she can thumb her nose to her parents!

 


#65:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 7:11 am


More today if I can get access to the PC. You'll have to understand that I'm just the typist!

 


#66:  Author: Ruth BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 9:47 am


Excellent!

Can't wait!

 


#67:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 10:21 am


Go Sybil. Jem and Madge are so horrible in this but from Sybil's point oif view they have been like that since she was a baby.

Am I the only one to see an image of Dr Harrington at the end of that last post?

 


#68:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 5:28 pm


No Sue, must admit I also wondered if Jem's next words would have been that he would have hit her. Shocked

 


#69:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 6:02 pm


Jennie your avatar is quite appropriate! (well, embroidery, anyway!)

This is amazing. More soon please!

 


#70:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 6:05 pm


This is wonderful Jennie! Feel so so so sorry for Sybil!

 


#71:  Author: Guest PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 7:42 pm


Madge made an attempt to pur oil on the troubled waters, but succeeded only in adding fuel to the flames.

'Now, Sybil, that is not the way to speak to your father, and you are spoiling the day for me with the way that you're behaving. If only you hadn't been so insistent on having your own way. You have no idea how much I wanted you to have four bridesmaids from the family, it would have been lovely to have had had the triplets here for your wedding, but no, you made such a terrible fuss.'

Sybil took a deep breath, then launched her attack.

'Do please tell me what you and father have done to make me want to speak to you in a pleasant way. As for me spoiling the day for you, what have you done this morning to make the day a pleasant one for me? You moaned because I stayed in the bath for too long, you've called me selfish several times, you've criticised my hairdo, you've moaned about my lotion, my scent and my dress. And now, finally, you have decided to resurrect the old complaint about my not wanting the triplets as bridesmaids. When will the two of you realise that I happen to be your daughter? It's MY day, my wedding day. I know you don't really like Hugh, but then, he doesn't meekly accept what you lay down as the law, does he? As for being your daughter, and respecting you as my parents, well Mother, please tell me why it is that you won't be lonely when both Josette and are married? You deprived me of my ambitions, you gave me your word and broke it without as much as a thought for what you were doing to me, because you said that you'd be 'lonely' here in Australia. So I'm getting married, and not a word about loneliness. Why don't you make a life of your own? God knows, you've given me little enough. It was always selfish, jealous Sybil. Well, if you had managed to give me some love, affection and approval, I might not have been jealous. Think about it.

I've just one more thing to say. If I hear one more word of complaint from you, when the wedding car comes for you and Josette, Mother, I'll send it away. And when the car comes for me, I'll get into all alone. I'm not afraid to walk up the aisle all by myself. I don't need anyone to give me away. But perhaps, for my last few minutes as your unmarried daughter, you might try to let me know that you love and value me.'

Both Sir James and Lady Russell stood there in complete silence. It was quite clear that neither was able to utter a single word, and from the colour of their faces, it was obvious that both had received a devastating shock.

 


#72:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 7:44 pm


That was I.

 


#73:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 7:57 pm


Go Sybs!

Alright, so it's too early to ask for more...but it would be lovely Very Happy

 


#74:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 8:03 pm


About time Sybil told them the truth about how she feels.

 


#75:  Author: KellyLocation: Auckland, New Zealand PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 8:20 pm


I feel so sorry for Sybil. But at the same time I also feel awful for Madge and Jem having to hear that from their daughter.

 


#76:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 8:32 pm


Jem looked at his daughter. He wondered whether he had been right in the way that he had brought up his children. He also began to realise that perhaps his own children had not had enough of the love and attention that children ought to have from their supposedly loving parents. He remembered the times that Sybil had come to him with some little project of her own, and before he could look at it, the phone would ring, and he would dash off, never thinking of the disappointment that his daughter was feeling. He had worked so hard to save the lives of other people's children, but what had he done to his own?

Perhaps he had been wrong not to have realised how Sybil felt, with so many other children older than she in the extended family. He had had to take in his sister's children, there had been no alternative, but he ought to have made time for his own children, even just a few minutes every day could have made all the difference to Sybil.

He also felt desperately ashamed of himself for having deprived Sybil of her embroidery course. They had given her their word, and they had broken it. Why couldn't Madge have seen the trip to Australia as the opportunity to start a new life of her own. Why had she declared that she coudn't go without the girls, she would be lonely without them.

He looked at Sybil, realising for the first time that she was no longer a child, a young girl, to be directed and ordered around, she was a lovely young woman who was on the verge of a new life, and they had spoiled the day for her by not acknowledging her right to choose her own path.


Last edited by Jennie on Wed Sep 15, 2004 8:39 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#77:  Author: RoseaLocation: Edinburgh PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 8:34 pm


This is brilliant Jennie, both Sybil getting all her feelings out at last and Jem's reaction. I'm glad he could recognise that they have made mistakes.

Now I wonder what Madge thought ... Wink

 


#78:  Author: AnnLocation: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 8:39 pm


Slightly worried as to the whereabouts of David, Ailie, Kevin and Kester. Would they side with Sybil or with their parents and Josette?

 


#79:  Author: PatLocation: Doncaster PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 8:46 pm


This is great Jennie. I love the light dawning in Jem's mind!!! May we please have some more?
Yes, I know I'm being greedy!

 


#80:  Author: claireLocation: South Wales PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 8:47 pm


Aww make him give her a hug

And make his speech at the reception very nice (and off the cuff apologise for breaking his promise)

Well done Sybs

 


#81:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 8:49 pm


Thank you, Jennie!!! Hopefully Madge will react as well as Jem did - but I'm not sure...

 


#82:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 8:52 pm


Wonderful tirade from Sybil - and so heartfelt. Yes it would be a shock to Jem and Madge, but after all they did to her I feel they deserve it.

Interesting that Jem is feeling that Sybil is right and is ashamed - will Madge will feel the same way? Somehow I don't think so! Laughing

Thanks Jennie.

 


#83:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 8:59 pm


Madge looked at her daughter. She could not get past the fact that Sybil was her daughter. She had imagined this day so differently. She had planned that when her daughters married,she Madge, would be the guiding light. She would have the final word on the dresses, the ceremony, the guest list, everything. She had imagined that her daughter would hang on her every word, do things Madge's way, because Madge had always guided them so well, her judgement could not be faulted. She resented, bitterly resented the fact that Sybil had had her own ideas, and the strength of character and determination to ensure ensure that the ideas became reality. 'Why of course Mother knows best,' she wanted to scream, 'Didn't I begin the Chalet School, wasn't I always a good mother to you, wasn't I right to make sure that you were well-behaved?'

Then she looked at Sybil again, and for the first time realised that her oldest daughter was an individual, not an appendage. She realised that all her plans for the future for Sybil, marriage, several babies, coming back to mother for advice, relying on her for help and direction in the upbringing of her children had just become dust and ashes. Sybil was her own person, a mother could not make plans to run her daughter's life once she was married.

Still, she tried once more to make Sybil realise that Mother knew best. 'Really, Sybil, such drama. Don't you know that Daddy and I have always wanted the best for you? That's why we have always felt that we should guide you, set you an example. Now don't be so silly, apologise to us, and we'll say no more about it. Don't let such silliness spoil this day for the family.'

'If that's the best that you can think or say, Mother, I'd prefer it if you weren't at the wedding.' replied Sybil in a chilly voice.

'But Sybil I have to be there, what would people say if I weren't?'

'Who cares?' replied Sybil in the same cool tone. 'I don't, and that's all I care about.'

'But, we're your parents, you are supposed to love and respect us.'

'I'm showing you just as much love as you showed me, and I'm respecting your feelings as much as you respected mine.'

Jem felt that he had to intervene.

'Sybil,' he managed to say. 'I'm sorry, so deeply sorry for what we've done to you. Please, let me escort you to your wedding, I don't think I could live with myself if you won't allow me to.'


Last edited by Jennie on Wed Sep 15, 2004 9:09 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#84:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 9:06 pm


hammer Madge - can't she see that her attitude is at fault here?

Thanks Jennie - very compelling - and nice to see Jem at least apologising, all Madge appears to care about is whether it's 'seemly'.

 


#85:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 9:10 pm


Wow! to both the last posts!

Just Wow!

Sybil must have been stewing that up for years and finally got it out, knowing that she was leaving their control (good word that!) for good. I'm glad Jem has seen the light but what if Madge doesn't - she will then resent Jem for siding with Sybil Shocked

*Chews fingernails till Jennie can get to the computer again*

 


#86:  Author: KellyLocation: Auckland, New Zealand PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 9:20 pm


Silly, silly Madge. Why didn't she just let it go. I'm not feeling so sorry for her anymore. 'm glad that Jem seems to have realised though and thats he's apoligised. I'm glad that Sybil will have a least one of her parents there in support.

And thank you Jennie - I just checked back and two more posts of story Shocked it was a very nice surprise.

 


#87:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 9:25 pm


Josette chose this moment to burst into the conversation.

'I do think you're being unfair, Sybs. Mummy has always done her best for you, and for all of us. Why are you doing this, why are you making so much trouble? It's supposed to be a happy day for us, and I was really looking forward to being your bridesmaid. Why don't you apologise to Mummy, and let her have her day?'

'Because it's not her day, it's mine. All I want her to do is to tell me that she values me, me, as a person in my own right, not just as her daughter. I'm getting married today, embarking on a new life, and all Mother wants to do is to carry on controlling me, bending me to her will, making me conform to her ideas, not appreciating that I'm different.'

Seeing Madge look uncomfortable, Sybil carried on. 'I'm sure Mother has the future planned out for me. Several children, always asking her advice, always there, looking to her for guidance. I don't want that sort of marriage, and neither does Hugh. What he and I both want is somthing different. We both have ambitions, and we're going to fulfil them.'

'Now Mother, are you going to attend MY wedding, or are you going to stay here? The choice is yours. If you come, it's because you realise that I'm Sybil, I'm getting married, and I have my own plans for the future. If you can't do that for me, then please have a migraine and stay at home. Josette, if you want to be my bridesmaid, then please keep quiet, carry out you duties, and stop trying to be a Chalet School girl. This is the real world now, not a sheltered boarding school. After all, you'd better think about this, you're getting married next year, and who do you want to have running your marriage, and your life?'

 


#88:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 9:26 pm


Go Sybil, this drabble makes you realise that she really was quite hard done by by her parents, at least Jem is realising his mistake.

In a way, Madge wanting to organise the wedding is very unfair, I mean, Madge didn't have anyone organising her wedding for her, did she?

JackieJ

 


#89:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 9:40 pm


*Wondering what Madge will choose. Migraine or wedding!*

Thanks Jennie.

 


#90:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 10:03 pm


This is fascinating Jennie and I'm so glad Sybil has spoken her feelings.

hammer Madge and Josette

 


#91:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Wed Sep 15, 2004 10:16 pm


Yeah Jem is coming to his senses. Poor Sybil fancy having to tel your parents that at any time never mind on your wedding day.

 


#92:  Author: Suse PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 1:07 am


Amazing! I love the way you've brough the characters to life. Can't wait to read more.

 


#93:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 12:44 pm


Yay! I knew I liked Jem for a reason! Hopefully Madge will come around in time - after all, she didn't treat Sybil brillinantly, but at the end of the day she was only trying to help in her misguided way. poke Madge

Glad to see that Sybs is trying to help Josette as well - she's right, she will have to consider this in the future.

... forgot for a moment that they don't actually exist Embarassed

 


#94:  Author: Ruth BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 1:09 pm


Liking Jem....

Hope Madge can see why Sybil is behaving this way...

Can't wait to find out about the revenge though...... more soon please Jennie!

 


#95:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 1:35 pm


What do you mean, Gem, don't actually exist?

 


#96:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 1:52 pm


Damn you Jennie - I thought that was going to be more drabble then! Razz

 


#97:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 1:54 pm


Mwahahahahahahahahahaha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 


#98:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 1:58 pm


So did I!!! Jennie!!! Sad

 


#99:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 2:05 pm


Jennie, you are so so evil!! When do we get some more please?

 


#100:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 2:19 pm


'Well, Mother,' said Sybil, still in that chilly and chilling voice. 'Are you going to acknowledge that I am a person in my own right, or are you going to stay at home?'

Madge looked at Sybil's resolute face. This wasn't how she had imagined it would be. She had thought that her daughter would cling to her at the last moment, torn between wanting to get married and yet longing to stay at home with her beloved parents. That was how a girl ought to feel on her wedding morning, how she ought to behave, not stand there accusingly, challenging her parents, and trying to force her mother to acknowledge that she was an individual with wishes of her own, and really, no mother should be put on the spot in this way, to have to declare that she valued her daughter and respected her as an individual. Why, Sybil was a part of her, would always belong to her, always be her little girl.

'Well, Mother? The car will be here in three minutes, so don't spend too long in making up your mind.'

Without her volition, Madge's mind flashed back to when Sybil was a litle girl, remembering the number of times that she had been called away just as she was about to read a story to Sybil, and how Sybil had reacted to these interruptions. She remembered her own response whan Sybil had cried or had a tantrum when Madge had had to go to Daisy or Primula, or Peggy and Rix, and she had been sharp with Sybil, telling her not to behave in such a selfish way, to remember that the others had been separated from their parents by death or distance.

She suddenly realised that she had put them before Sybil, her own child, and that Sybil had thought for some time that she had five older brothers and sisters. She also recalled vividly the times when Sybil, after discovering that they were her cousins, had gone round saying that she belonged and they didn't. No wonder, Sybil had had far less of her parents than Peggy and Rix had had, because Dick and Mollie had returned from India and put some effort into rebuilding the family unit, whereas she, Madge, had assumed that Sybil would automatically understand that she was a beloved daughter of the house. She felt a deep sense of shame that she had deprived Sybil of her needlework course. Sybil had kept her part of the bargain, she, Madge, hadn't. There weren't any excuses. Sybil could have boarded with a respectable family in London, could have spent her holidays at the Quadrant or on the Platz, but because Madge had feared that she would not enjoy life in Australia, she had broken her word. And this was the result.

 


#101:  Author: BethLocation: Durham, apparently... PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 2:42 pm


This is so good Jennie...I'm on the edge of my seat!

*falls off seat*

*gets up, smiles in an embarrassed fashion, and greedily starts a chant for more to deflect attention*

 


#102:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 2:52 pm


So is Madge going to finally realise what she has done???

*Also sitting on the edge of her seat*

 


#103:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 3:43 pm


Yay!!! Thank you, Jennie!!!!

*beaming*

 


#104:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 4:06 pm


Madge finally managed to utter the words, 'I'm sorry, Sybil, so sorry. Please try to forgive me. I'll try to do better in the future. Of course I love you, it's just, well, there were so many other things in the way. I realise now that I took you, and your love and respect for granted. Please, let me come to your wedding. I'll try not to interfere, and I'll try not to tell you what to do in your new life. I wish I could turn back the clock for a couple of years. We should have kept our word to you, I see that now. I've been the selfish one, making assumptions.'

Before Sybil could reply, the maid came in to say that the car for Lady Russell and Miss Josette had arrived. Madge and Josette hurried out, calling a hasty goodbye, leaving Sybil alone with her father.

She picked up her bouquet, then said that their car would be arriving in five minutes.

"This wasn't how I wanted my wedding morning to be, you know. I had hoped that you and mother would realise that I have grown up, that if I'm old enough to be married, I'm old enough to make my own choices about other things. I didn't actually much care what my wedding was like until Mother started to make all the decisions, that's when I realised that unless I made a stand, the two of you would be trying to run my life for ever, even though I was married. Perhaps if you and Mother had bothered to take the time to find out what I am like as a person, this would never had happened, but you were always busy at the San, so I never felt that I had a father, just someone who came in once in a while. I never felt that your children mattered to you as much as other people did. Oh, I'm proud of your work, and the good that you've done in fighting TB, but it would have been good to have had some of your time. Do you know, that time I went away on holiday with Aunt Jo and her friends, when we went out for a walk together, we were out for two hours. That's the longest time you've ever spent, in the whole of my life, just with me. The rest of the time you were busy with Aunt Jo's worries about Phoebe and all the rest of it. I had to take a back seat again.

'And now, it's really too late, I'm getting married in thirty minutes' time, and I shall be making my life with Hugh. Don't you think that it's a sad state of affairs?'

For a moment, Jem did not know what to say, then he found the words.

 


#105:  Author: Ruth BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 4:14 pm


Which were?

 


#106:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 4:37 pm


Which were??!

 


#107:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 6:46 pm


Thank you Jennie - glad that Madge saw Sybil's viewpoint. Feel sorry for Sybil.

 


#108:  Author: Amanda MLocation: Wakefield PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 7:39 pm


Also wanting to know what Jem has got to say.

Star Wars

 


#109:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Sep 16, 2004 8:43 pm


*Echoes "Which were*????

Huh! Another graduate in the school of keeping us on the edge of our seats. Huh! too many of them around these days. Wink

 


#110:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 9:42 am


Poor Madge fancy having to wait until the last minute to realise all that. What a waste of their lives together.

When my sister moved back here after her husband walked out I had a job trying to prove to my mum what was support and what was interference. I had to give her a bit of an ultimatum too.

 


#111:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 10:44 am


Good for you Sue! Laughing

 


#112:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 12:26 pm


*Also want's to know what Jem's words were* Confused

It is sad that Syb's not been able to tell them this before. Maybe when they're not living in the same house it'll be easier to reconcile all their differences though. Although the face we haven't seen any revenge yet makes me feel that a reconciliation ain't gonna happen.

More please?

JackieJ

 


#113:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 6:34 pm


You do realise that this started out as a very short drabble, meant to be only about five or six posts, then it ran away with me. So please give me a few minutes to catch up, I do like to read other people's drabbles.

 


#114:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 7:01 pm


And perhaps update us on Joey's labour? Wink

I'm glad the bunnie ran away with it as this is extremely interesting but I'm happy to wait until you are ready (can't say much for everyone else though!)

 


#115:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 7:04 pm


Apologies for the spreeing.



Jem Looked at his daughter, and his heart nearly broke. He managed to force the words out.

'You are my beloved daughter, and I wish that we had given you what you wanted and worked for. You deserved it, and we were very wrong to deprive you of it. I only hope that it's not too late for you to forgive me. I never realised what you were going through inside. I can see now that we've made some terrible mistakes. We should have realised. Oh God! Two hours! I feel so ashamed that you remember that because it was the only time that I spent with you, just the two of us. A daughter deserves more of her father than that.

It's time to go now,Sybil. Will you please forgive us? I hope that we will be able to get over this so that the rest of the day is a happy one.

I'm proud that you've told me all this, it must have taken a great deal of courage. Come on, there's the doorbell, time to go.'

Taking her father's arm, Sybil walked to the door of their apartment, but before they reached it, her father stopped her and said, 'You look so beautiful in that dress, I don't really want to give you away to anyone. Yes, don't look so alarmed, we're off to your wedding.'

 


#116:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 7:18 pm


Quite impressed with Jem for being able to say that.

Thanks Jennie.

 


#117:  Author: Helen PLocation: Cheshire PostPosted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 7:47 pm


Agreed, Lesley. It must have been a hard thing to do for Jem to swallow his pride like that and admit his wrongs. Especially for a man in that day and age conditioned to believe that he is right about everything <g>

Good for him! (And for Madge too). I hope this will be the beginning of a new improved relationship between Sybil and her parents.

 


#118:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 8:31 pm


Glad Jem managed to say his piece. He has gone up a little in my estimation.

 


#119:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Sep 17, 2004 9:19 pm


Thanks, Jennie. I've been following this with great interest and drawing horrible parallels with my first (ex) mother-in-law; with whom I clashed rather seriously. (OK, don't look so surprised Wink ). the only thing I remember about my first wedding was that someone dropped a suitcase on my foot at the railway station. Pictures show me looking happy but with a red stain over my heart Shocked (large piece of pinky, red confetti fallen between the lace and satin of the bodice of my dress).

Poor woman is now 99 yrs old and has alienated almost everyone in the family. It's a shame she didn't read this many years ago.

 


#120:  Author: keren PostPosted: Sun Sep 19, 2004 9:42 pm


I enjoyed reading this.
I think that also Madge herself was not really bought up as a teenager by her mother, so did not have a real relationship to learn from.

 


#121:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sun Sep 19, 2004 10:27 pm


Wow. I've had the pleasure of reading just about all of this in one go - it's certainly made me Sybil in a new light, poor girl. I'm glad that she has managed to become her own person, I just hope her marriage is happy.
I'm very impressed with Jem too, and I'm glad that Madge did finally get to see Sybil's point of view.
I'm rather less impresed with Josette though, but maybe she likes being the dutiful daughter, I wonder if Madge & Jem will have learnt from this and act differently when it is Josette's turn to marry. Not that I'm suggesting you write it of course, but if you did want to I'm very willing to read it.

 


#122:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 11:31 am


The wedding ceremony went off without a hitch, though the bride's mother cried rather more than usual during the ceremony, whilst the bridesmaid, looking very pretty in her pink and green dress, seemed a little mutinous at times, and reluctant to perform her duties.

After the photographs had been taken, a long process as all the big Sydney newspapers had sent photographers so that they could print them the next day, the bridal procession set off to the luxurious hotel where the reception was to be held.

When they arrived, the groom tenderly helped his bride out of the car. They were standing smiling at one another, when the car carrying Sir James and Lady Russell and their other daughter drew up. Lady Russell was the first to emerge from the Daimler. She immediately approached her daughter, saying, 'Sybil, just tidy your dress and veil, please, you look rather rumpled. I can't imagine what you've been doing to get into that state.'

Hugh gave her a lazy smile and replied, 'She looks fine to me, Lady Russell, and as for what we've been doing, I've been kissing my beautiful bride, my lovely new wife.'

Madge's jaw dropped, and she was about to make another comment when Jem intervened.

'I can't say that I blame you, Hugh, any sensible bridegroom would have done. Come along, Madge, time to go in to stand in the receiving line.'

Madge went along with Jem, but her look boded no good for Sybil at a later time.

 


#123:  Author: Amanda MLocation: Wakefield PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 11:42 am


Oh dear, I thought Madge might have learned from earlier, but obviously not.

Wonders what's going to happen at the reception and wedding speeches.

Star Wars

 


#124:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 11:56 am


*wibbling*

At least Jem appears to have learnt from it, though!

Thank you Jennie!

 


#125:  Author: Ruth BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 12:00 pm


ROFL ROFL ROFL ROFL

Excellent response from Jem!

Can't wait to see what happens at the reception - after that comment from Hugh am very worried about his speech!!!

 


#126:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 12:00 pm


It's probably jst as well that Madge and Sybil wouldn't normally get to make speeches. I wonder if one or both of them is about to buck that tradition?

 


#127:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 12:41 pm


What happened to 'that sweet woman, Lady Russell'? She's certainly not listening to her husband this time!

 


#128:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 1:03 pm


So Madge's repentence was only skin deep then, although I suppose it takes a while to unlearn habits.
I'm glad that Jem is being rather more reasonable and sensitive to Sybil's feelings.
Now what is the reception going to bring?

 


#129:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 3:02 pm


Poor Sybil, at least Hugh is standing up for her. Jem needs to have a very very sharp word with Madge!

 


#130:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 4:09 pm


After all the guests had arrived and drinks had been served, the noise level rose considerably as everyone settled down to enjoy themselves. Madge kept darting glances at Sybil, clearly hoping to get her by herself, but Hugh kept Sybil close by his side, either with his arm around her waist or with her arm linked through his.

Hugh was clearly amused by Madge's behaviour. When they were alone for a few minutes, he murmured softly into Sybil's ear. Some of the guests noticed them, and smiled to see it, fondly imagining that Hugh was telling Sybil how much he loved her. They would have been horrified to hear what he was saying.

'Just another two or three hours, darling, then it's goodbye for ever.'

Soon after that, the hotel staff were seen, calling the guests into the wedding breakfast. It was a lavish meal cooked by a French chef and all the guests were thoroughly appreciative. Finally, Sybil and Hugh cut the wedding cake to wild applause that Madge secretly thought was a little vulgar. Champagne was served to all the guests, and the speeches began.

Jem, father of the bride, was the first to speak. On the journey to the church, he had decided to ditch the speech that he had prepared and written in favour of saying something far shorter and simpler. He stood up and his words fell into the silence that followed.

'I've often heard it said that brevity is the soul of wit, so you will all be very glad to hear that my speech will be extremely short.'

Everyone laughed to hear that, then he continued.

'Today I gave my eldest daughter away in marriage to Hugh Lyall. Sybil is a beautiful bride, a beautiful girl, and Hugh is a very lucky man. All I want to do is to ask you to join with me in wishing them a long happy life together. I ask you to join me in a toast. To Sybil and Hugh.'

 


#131:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 5:08 pm


I love Jem's nice short speech!

But, Jennie (pleadingly typed). I can't wait 2 or 3 hours to hear what happens Wink

 


#132:  Author: Sarah_KLocation: St Albans/Leicester PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 5:37 pm


That is just about the perfect wedding speech. Pity it seems to be too late from Hugh's "good bye for ever"

 


#133:  Author: ellendLocation: Bow, London PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 6:04 pm


Gosh, hasn't a lot happened in a week. I am enjoying this with its fresh insight into Sybil and I'm really looking forward to what Sybil's revenge is. If I'd been Sybil I think I'd have yelled at Madge long before the wedding day.

This is great, Jennie.


Ellen

PS: Any more developments in the labour ward?

 


#134:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 7:22 pm


I wish Jem had made the speech at some weddings I've been to! Good for him.
But am also wondering about the goodbye for ever, who does it apply to?

 


#135:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 7:48 pm


*Can't believe how silly Madge is being!*

Thanks Jennie - definitely intrigued as to how this develops.

 


#136:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 8:32 pm


Thats a lovely speech and I really like the way Jem is thinking about his actions, he's putting Madge to shame.

 


#137:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 8:43 pm


Next, Hugh stood to make his speech.

"First, I should like to tell you all how much the new Mrs Lyall and I appreciate your being with us today. Sybil, as her father said, is a beautiful girl and I am the luckiest man alive to have met, wooed and married her. We are looking forward to a long and happy life together.
Of course, it would not be a proper bridegroom's speech without thanking the people who have made today possible. So Sir James, I'd like to thank you , and your wife, not only for this lovely wedding day, but also for having Sybil, for without her, today would not have been possible. I should also like to thank the bridesmaid for performing her duties as well and as graciously as she did.

As my father-in-law has just said, brevity is the soul of wit, and I intend to emulate him on that score, so I shall just thank you all once more for myself and for my beautiful wife.'

He took hold of Sybil's hand and raised it to his lips to the sound of loud applause.


The best man, Charles Dane, then made a short graceful speech on behalf of the bridesmaid, finishing the formal part of the reception.

The orchestra began to play and the bride and groom opened the dancing. The music was so good that no-one but the bride's eagle-eyed mother noticed the happy couple slipping away, and heading upstairs to the suite that had been reserved for them.

 


#138:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 9:02 pm


Yay! So glad that Madge didn't butt in and say something. Just hope she doesn't follow the couple upstairs Shocked

Thank you Jennie!

 


#139:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 9:25 pm


Thank you Jennie. Oohh 'eagle eyed brides mother' doesn't sound too good.

 


#140:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 9:37 pm


Have the idea that Madge is going to try and butt in once more - wondered where Joey got it from! Think she may be in for an unpleasant shock!

 


#141:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 10:02 pm


It all sounds rather worrisome .....
Is there a bomb shelter on this thread?

 


#142:  Author: PatLocation: Doncaster PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 10:13 pm


She's surely not stupid enough to follow them up!!!! After all think what she might walk into!!!

 


#143:  Author: BethLocation: Durham, apparently... PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 10:18 pm


Shocked

 


#144:  Author: Catherine_BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 11:23 pm


The woman has six children of her own - surely she can knows what can happen between a married couple!! Shocked Laughing

 


#145:  Author: Kathy_SLocation: midwestern US PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 12:10 am


Actually, I'm still thinking about the many potential vengeful plot-lines that could follow from,
Quote:
'Just another two or three hours, darling, then it's goodbye for ever.'

 


#146:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 6:32 am


Kathy_S wrote:
Actually, I'm still thinking about the many potential vengeful plot-lines that could follow from,
Quote:
'Just another two or three hours, darling, then it's goodbye for ever.'


Been reading too many thrillers, Kathy?

*Thinks*
*This is a Jennie drabble*
*Hunkers down in the bomb shelter*

 


#147:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 12:34 pm


I hope all mothers of brides aren't eagle eyed *wibbles*

Also, not having read a full Jennie drabble before, I don't know what to expect, But I shall bow to the wisdom and experience of some of the more long-standing members of the board.

*Hides with PatMac*

JackieJ

 


#148:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 1:33 pm


Oh dear! What will Madge find!!!

*eager for more*

 


#149:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 1:44 pm


I hope Madge does get a shock, she deserves it!!

Thanks Jennie, and I hope theres more soon! Very Happy

 


#150:  Author: Amanda MLocation: Wakefield PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 3:22 pm


I wasn't worried too much before - but now I am. Thinking now of all the possibilities that hadn't occured before Shocked

Star Wars

 


#151:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 3:43 pm


Seeing the pair of them slip away, Madge quietly, or so she imagined, followed them, intending to see that Sybil and Hugh completed their social duty by remaining until the time that Madge had intended them to leave for their honeymoon. Really, this was just too bad of Sybil and Hugh. What would people think? Why, people might think that had slipped away to ......, and here Madge's thoughts determinedly turned away from actually specifying what might follow the 'to'.

Knowing the number of the suite that Hugh had booked, Madge hurried there, and hammered on the outer door. When it was opened by Sybil's maid, Madge pushed past her and burst into the luxuriously furnished sitting room.

'Really, Sybil, this is too bad of you, what will people think and say about you?'

Her headlong dash was stopped by an icy-faced Hugh, and she saw Sybil sitting, white-faced on a sofa.

'My wife happens to have a headache, Lady Russell, so I have brought her up here for a few moments' peace and quiet, a drink of water and a couple of aspirins.

'In future, Lady Russell, I shall be obliged to you if you would mind your own business and refrain from interfering in our lives and our marriage. Sybil has told me how you behaved to her this morning, and I am truly appalled that you did your utmost to spoil our happy day. Perhaps you might spend some time profitably by pondering on the idea of selfishness, your own selfishness.

As it is, please leave immediately, you have caused Sybil enough stress today, and she needs a little rest.'

Hugh walked over to the door, and held it for Madge, who was forced to leave the suite, her face absolutely scarlet with outrage and indignation.

 


#152:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 3:59 pm


Well done Hugh!!! Am really, really liking Sybil's hubby.

... where are all the RL Hughs? Sad

 


#153:  Author: RobinLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 4:01 pm


Gem wrote:
... where are all the RL Hughs? Sad


hiding with the real life Ed's, I think

hope it is just a headache...

 


#154:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 4:01 pm


Well, I've never found one, so perhaps they exist only in my imagination!

 


#155:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 4:04 pm


In that case, he can exist in my imagination as well! Very Happy

*settles down to blissful alternate reality*

Thank you very much though Jennie - he really is wonderful and Sybil certainly deserves him after all those years of dealing with Madge and Jem! *growls*

 


#156:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 4:48 pm


Gem wrote:


... where are all the RL Hughs? Sad


They already have boyfriends...

 


#157:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 5:00 pm


Kat wrote:
Gem wrote:


... where are all the RL Hughs? Sad


They already have boyfriends...


Lovely riposte, Kat!

Jennie, I think RL Hughs are scarce as hen's teeth!

 


#158:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 6:16 pm


Kat wrote:
Gem wrote:


... where are all the RL Hughs? Sad


They already have boyfriends...


I read a joke something like that the other day! Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy

And PatMac, I agree as well. Oh well, there have to be some around!! Presumably at least a few of the married members of the board agree - I hope... Confused

 


#159:  Author: aliLocation: medway, kent PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 6:29 pm


yep, I have my very own rl hugh. If I want something on the tele, and theres not a vital, football, cricket, golf (insert name of any sport) match I'm allowed to watch it! (For vital read any.)

Still he does all the cooking, washing up, washing and other household duties so I'll let him off. Wink

 


#160:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 6:41 pm


I want a Hugh! Darn. What an amazing response!

More please Jennie!

 


#161:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 7:35 pm


Lovely Hugh -and Madge deserved that! Laughing

 


#162:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 8:02 pm


I like Hugh to, but frankly Madge deserved something worse than that! A pity Hugh and Sybil didn't spend the time fixing a bucket of water to the top of the door or something!

 


#163:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 8:30 pm


wowowowowowow just read all of this at once and all I can say is MORE! please *g*

 


#164:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 8:44 pm


Was Sybil really white faced just because Madge had walked in, or is something else going on as well??

What are the two of them up to???

 


#165:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 9:51 pm


Brilliant post Jennie! May we have some more soon please?

And by the way... I'm feeling very anti-male incase you hadn't guessed!!!

 


#166:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 11:24 pm


Brilliant Jennie. Way to go Hugh. That put Madge in her place.

But wondering what is really going on.

 


#167:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 1:53 pm


*Wails.... JENNIEEEEE!!! Where are youuuuuuuu??*

May we have some more?? Please? Very Happy

 


#168:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 4:42 pm


I'm here, but I've had no computer access until ten minutes ago. Sobbing because I couldn't read C & D yesterday evening. Definite withdrawal symptoms. More drabble later, but it's almost finished.

 


#169:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 5:34 pm


Oooh, yay!

 


#170:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 7:27 pm


About fifteen minutes after Madge's abrupt dismissal from the suite, the bridal pair made their way downstairs, still dressed in their wedding clothes.

They slowly made their way across the room until they reached Jem, who was in earnest discussion with one of his medical colleagues, leaving Madge to make small talk with his wife. Seeing Sybil and Hugh approaching him, Jem broke off his conversation, and went towards them. Still with a smile on his face, Hugh began to remonstrate with Jem.

'Sir James, I don't want a fuss, or for this to be overheard by any of the guests, but I must ask you to ensure that your wife, Lady Russell understands one simple thing. Sybil is now my wife, and her mother needs to realise that Sybil is not to be ordered around or treated as though she were a young, silly girl. If she is old enough to be married, she is old enough to make decisions for herself. I bitterly resent, for both of us, that when I helped Sybil up to our suite to get her some water and a couple of aspirins for the headache which was brought on, I have no doubt, by the needless stress imposed on her this morning by your wife's behaviour, we were pursued by Lady Russell who addressed us in a hectoring tone, ordering us to return to the reception, and in general behaving in a thoroughly obnoxious way.'

Jem groaned at this news. All he could do was apologise. He realised that this situation was almost insoluble. It appeared to be an article of faith within the Bettany family that Mother was always right. Madge had adopted that attitude with her children, and, he saw with great clarity, Jo had done so with hers. The problem was, what on earth could he do about it? Something had to change, but how was he to make it change?

 


#171:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 7:39 pm


Thank you, Jennie!! Love the little interlude about Joey and Madge treating their children in the same way. Good for Jem and Hugh Smile

 


#172:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 7:58 pm


Thank you Jennie - what a lovely allusion to the 'Bettany family.' Definitely seems to be only on the female line - don't think Mollie and Dick's kids had it.

 


#173:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 8:12 pm


Thank you Jennie! Very Happy

 


#174:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 9:02 pm


Yup, Thanks Jennie. Makes me wonder though, will Madge learn her lesson or will she be trying to control 'em all down to Ailie, and what about Jo's brood. Will they have to put up with Mamma Maynard butting in until they're all great-grandma's?

I hope Sybil can have a more peaceful life from now on though.

JackieJ

 


#175:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 9:33 pm


The reception continued for another hour or so, then Sybil and Hugh slipped away to change into their going-away outfits. When Madge noticed this, she began to follow them, but Jem was on the look-out, and prevented her.

'Really, Jem, I need to go up there to supervise, I'm her mother. what if she doesn't look right in the outfit she chose, I'll need to look through her cases and choose something more suitable!'

'No, you won't, Madge. You'll leave them alone. Sybil will wear what she chooses, not what you think is appropriate. Sybil is married now, and she has the right to make her own decisions. In fact, Hugh spoke to me about your bursting in on them when Sybil needed some aspirins. He was very annoyed about it, and wants me to make you leave them alone. Madge, we are in danger of losing our oldest daughter altogether, because you cannot accept that she has the right to lead her own life. I can't understand you. You were happy for Sybil to go away to school, make long journeys out to Switzerland, and even made her responsible for her younger sisters. Now that she's an adult and married, you're treating her as if she were a child. What's got into you? You were very keen for her to marry, now let things alone and don't cause unnecessary trouble in her marriage.

 


#176:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 9:35 pm


Go Jem, go Jem!

Laughing

 


#177:  Author: Catherine_BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 9:39 pm


You tell her, Jem!!!

 


#178:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 9:41 pm


Seconds Kat's post!

 


#179:  Author: KellyLocation: Auckland, New Zealand PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 9:41 pm


Thank you Jennie!
Madge deserved that, I just wish she'd learn her lesson and let poor Sybil be.

 


#180:  Author: ellendLocation: Bow, London PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 9:50 pm


I'm enjoying Hugh's put downs for Madge, but I've a feeling this is subdefuge(?sp) to allow Sybil to do what she's intending and to allow Hugh to go his own way after the ceremony.

Perhaps he needs a wife as a cover for his real preferences.


Ellen

 


#181:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 10:03 pm


Thank you Jennie and good for Jem!!! Very Happy

 


#182:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 11:26 pm


Good for Jem - hope he can get Madge to see sense.

 


#183:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 4:08 pm


At last, Sybil and Hugh came down the stairs, hand in hand, and laughing. Sybil was wearing a beautiful pale peach suit which set off her colouring, and carrying her gloves and handbag.

They reached the bottom of the stairs and waited there for a few minutes, until they were surrounded by a laughing crowd of well-wishers.

'I must throw my bouquet,' said Sybil with a laugh.

She looked around at the assembled people, then threw her bouquet in the opposite direction from Josette. Seeing this deliberate snub, Madge was torn between looking like thunder and maintaining the smiling outer face appropriate to the mother of the bride.

As she once again came down to the bottom step, the crowd began to part to allow them to begin to walk to their car. On the way to the door Sybil and Hugh stopped to thank many people again for their wedding presents and for attending their wedding. Only a very few keen-sighted people noticed that the bride's smile became fixed as she approached her parents and sister, and that though she kissed her father on the cheek, her mother received only a perfunctory air-kiss, and she barely inclined her head towards her sister.

Then the newly-wedded pair were in the back of the car, the chauffeur had quickly closed the door and got into the driving seat.

As the car pulled away, Sybil and Hugh were seen waving gaily.

What would have surprised the wedding guests was the conversation that took place between the bride and groom.

 


#184:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 4:23 pm


Hmmm.... sounds interesting!!!

We are going to get to hear what they say, right, Jennie? *looking hopeful*

 


#185:  Author: RobinLocation: London, England PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 4:24 pm


Jennie!! *wailing pitifully*
you know we don't like it when you leave things like this....

I feel a bit sorry for Josette in this - I always rather liked her!

 


#186:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 4:24 pm


Jennie wrote:
What would have surprised the wedding guests was the conversation that took place between the bride and groom.


Which was... Question Question Question Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation

 


#187:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 4:29 pm


You will discover that tomorrow. The chemist has just phoned to say that my prescription has been delivered to them, so I have to go down town to collect it. Sorry, but I'm afraid that that has to come first.

 


#188:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 4:33 pm


Thank you Jennie - silly Madge, why is she doing this? As Jem said, she was fine when Sybil was at School - hardly wanted to know her!

Love the cliff - will look forward to reading resolution of same tomorrow! Laughing

 


#189:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 5:22 pm


But...but...grr. But we will hear what they said, right?!

But I'm getting worried that Hugh is using Sybil to hide something...or is going to take advantage of the fact she wants to go far away...or something. There's been a mysterious lack of cliffs! *suspicious*

 


#190:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 5:31 pm


Hmmm, I'm thinking that Sybil is using Hugh to for her own purposes, or maybe it's a mutual arrangement.
I'm very much looking forward to hearing their conversation though. We are going to hear the conversation, aren't we?

 


#191:  Author: JackieJLocation: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 7:08 pm


*Forsee's a terrible fate for Jennie if we don't learn what the conversation between Sybil and Hugh is*

Twisted Evil

But pretty please may we have some more?

JackieJ

 


#192:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 7:16 pm


*Imagination clicks into overdrive*

Twisted Evil

Thank you Jennie!

 


#193:  Author: CathyLocation: Australia PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 9:54 pm


I'm intrigued by this. Have Hugh and Sybil gotten married to cover up the fact that both will live with different partners?

Hopes Jennie can write some more soon.

 


#194:  Author: RobinLocation: London, England PostPosted: Fri Sep 24, 2004 9:19 am


me too, although it's now Friday and prescription was hopefully collected safely, so surely we're due some more now?

*looks hopefully at Jennie*

 


#195:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Fri Sep 24, 2004 10:31 am


Would dearly love to hear the conversation. Is also wondering if the wedding is just a cover uo for something else!

 


#196:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Fri Sep 24, 2004 11:25 am


It's tomorrow now! Jennie, I'm hooked and intrigued and am going to be on tenterhooks now all day!!!!!!!!!

 


#197:  Author: eilarocLocation: Winchester PostPosted: Fri Sep 24, 2004 5:05 pm


well, my guess is that they will be leaving the country permanently, but I'm not sure what next..

 


#198:  Author: karryLocation: somewhere cold and miserable! :( PostPosted: Fri Sep 24, 2004 5:09 pm


It is now well into Friday - what happens? ??

 


#199:  Author: RoseaLocation: Edinburgh PostPosted: Fri Sep 24, 2004 5:44 pm


still waiting eagerly but patiently!

 


#200:  Author: ellendLocation: Bow, London PostPosted: Sat Sep 25, 2004 8:03 am


Jennie, it's now Saturday. Any chance of the installment promised soon?

We all want to find out what he conversation was.


Ellen

 


#201:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Sat Sep 25, 2004 5:06 pm


I've tried to post to this thread three times today, and each time it has crashed the PC. I'll try later this weekend or on Monday.

 


#202:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Sat Sep 25, 2004 5:27 pm


*hits Jennie's computer with hammer hammer *

*also poke it! *

Good luck tomorrow!

 


#203:  Author: DonnaLocation: Liverpool PostPosted: Sat Sep 25, 2004 6:48 pm


Laura wrote:
*hits Jennie's computer with hammer hammer *


Not sure if this will have the desired effect Laura! Wink

Don't worry Jennie - we can be patient occasionally! Loving the story btw!

 


#204:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sat Sep 25, 2004 9:56 pm


*Joins in the general bashing and poking of Jannie's computer*

I hope it is able to post it soon!! Very Happy

 


#205:  Author: ellendLocation: Bow, London PostPosted: Sun Sep 26, 2004 12:41 pm


*threatens Jennie's computer with long fall from great height unless it behaves and allows Jennie to post and write more drabble (when RL permits)*


Ellen

 


#206:  Author: janetbrown23Location: Colchester PostPosted: Sun Sep 26, 2004 1:10 pm


I need moreeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee.
New addict of Drabbles
Jan

 


#207:  Author: karryLocation: somewhere cold and miserable! :( PostPosted: Sun Sep 26, 2004 2:55 pm


This now the "later" bit - still no go with the @~*&%$ computer Jennie?

Screen of Death

 


#208:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sun Sep 26, 2004 6:05 pm


hammer Jennie's computer, and if that fails, Screen of Death Screen of Death Screen of Death

 


#209:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Sun Sep 26, 2004 9:06 pm


((((husgs)))) Jennie

poke computer!

 


#210:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 12:35 pm


Jenniiiiiiiiieeeeeeee!!!!


May we have some more please? *hoping ferverently that whatever the problem was, has been fixed!*

 


#211:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 3:33 pm


That one was fixed, so now we have a spiffy new PC with blue lights on the front, and a multi-coloured LED display on the top of the tower. It has windows XP loaded onto it, but as yet we don't have Office, so I can't do a cut and paste job.

Oh, and it won't let me get onto the net as myself, I have to come on through Andrew's part of it.

Is this really progress, I ask myself?

 


#212:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 4:25 pm


Crying or Very sad Thought that that was going to be more Crying or Very sad

Could you send it to one of us and let us post it for you?

 


#213:  Author: AnnLocation: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 4:55 pm


We have Windows XP on our shiny new computer and, although it doesn't have Office, it has Microsoft Works which has a cut and paste function.

 


#214:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 7:16 pm


Sybil and Hugh smiled at each other with a world of conspiratorial glee on their faces.

'Well, my darling,' said Hugh. Everything has gone off very well, just as we planned.'

'Yes,' replied Sybil. 'I can just see Mother's face when she tries to phone our hotel tomorrow morning and discovers that we aren't there.'

'It will be even better when she finds out that we've never even been booked into it, and the hotel has never heard of us.'

'It will serve her right,' said Sybil.

'Right indeed, we'll be far away. embarked on our new life, and there'll be no way that they can trace us. Even if they go to the police, they'll just be told to leave us alone to get on with our honeymoon. I'm really looking forward to some long, lazy days with you. Now, we've just time for dinner before we have to be making tracks. I've made a booking at a nice little restaurant, it ought to be nice to have dinner on their terrace, then we'll really be off. Don't forget, we have to be there at eight o'clock.'

After dinner, Sybil and Hugh got back into the car and were swiftly driven to the Harbour, where they boarded the SS Corinthia, bound for London.

They were shown to their cabin, where Sybil discovered that her maid had unpacked for her and laid out a pretty frock for the evening. Sybil changed quickly and went back up on deck, where she found Hugh waiting for her. They leaned against the rails of the ship, feeling almost deafened as she sounded her warning hooter. Then they stood by the rails, looking at their last sight of Australia. As the land blurred into the darkening sky, Sybil felt an overwhelming sense of triumph and relief that they had made their escape so easily.

No-one would think of looking for them in Mayfair, where they had bought a very nice house. Sybil was going to go to where she had always wanted to, the School of Needlework, whilst Hugh was starting a property development company, with Charles, his best man, as his partner. They both wanted to leave Australia, and Sybil had been more than happy to. She had never been happy there until she had met Hugh, feeling lonely, bored and deprived of her dearest dream.

Now she was off, 'London here we come.' she thought.

Just then, Charles, who was also sailing on the ship came up to them. Hearing music coming from the Main Deck bar, he bowed and asked Sybil if she would do him the honour of dancing with him.

Sybil agreed, but just before Charles swept her away to the strains of a waltz, he turned to Hugh and said, 'You know, Hugh, you'd really better get over your dislike of dancing. think of Sybil'.


THE END


Last edited by Jennie on Tue Sep 28, 2004 3:11 pm; edited 1 time in total

 


#215:  Author: ElzbieLocation: London PostPosted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 7:45 pm


Cool! Good for Sybil! Sounds like there is more to this story than meets the eye, though:
Quote:
Sybil agreed, but just before Charles swept her away to the strains of a waltz, he turned to Hugh and said, 'You know, Hugh, you'd really better get over your dislike of dancing. think of Sybil'.

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.....

Thank you Jennie!

 


#216:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 7:55 pm


If anyone wants to read more into it than I have written, it's entirely up to that person.

 


#217:  Author: RoseaLocation: Edinburgh PostPosted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 8:05 pm


also hmmmm - but I am so glad that Sybil is finally getting what she dreamed of, and I would like to think that they will all be happy.

Thank you so much Jennie, this really has been a fantastic story. Very Happy

 


#218:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 8:20 pm


Yay! Thank you Jennie! We are not worthy

 


#219:  Author: patmacLocation: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 8:21 pm


That has been great, Jennie (even if interrupted at the end by the unspeakable PC Wink ).

Adds to the Hmmms!

 


#220:  Author: AllyLocation: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 9:07 pm


*also hmmmming*

Thank you Jennie Jumping

 


#221:  Author: LesleyLocation: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 10:19 pm


Thank you Jennie!!! Laughing


Though it would be nice to see Madge's reaction Wink

 


#222:  Author: KellyLocation: Auckland, New Zealand PostPosted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 10:22 pm


Thank you Jennie. Very Happy

 


#223:  Author: DonnaLocation: Liverpool PostPosted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 11:09 pm


Thanks Jennie!

 


#224:  Author: GemLocation: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 11:31 pm


Thanks Jennie! Lovely ending!

 


#225:  Author: pimLocation: St Andrews (right next to the beach) PostPosted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 8:31 am


*goes goggle-eyed as brain goes into overdrive*

Thank you Jennie!

 


#226:  Author: RobinLocation: London, England PostPosted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 9:34 am


jennie! this is way too good for it to end there!

 


#227:  Author: LadyGuinevereLocation: Leicester PostPosted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 9:57 am


Thanks!

Though I'm a bit miffed we won't see Madge's reaction Smile

~LadyG

 


#228:  Author: KatLocation: Swansea PostPosted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 10:08 am


Please please please please please may we see Madge's reaction??

Pretty please? reading

 


#229:  Author: Carolyn PLocation: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 11:49 am


Mexican Wave Please may we see Madge's reaction, not only to finding they are not in the hotel, but that she can't find them in the country at all!! Mexican Wave

 


#230:  Author: VikkiLocation: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 12:52 pm


Go on Jennie!

You KNOW you want to do an epilogue showing Madge's reaction...... Plot Bunny Wave

 


#231:  Author: SusanLocation: Carlisle PostPosted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 12:56 pm


Thank you Jennie, thankful that Sybil managed to get away and that she is going to realise her dream. Hope it is all and more even than she imagined.

 


#232:  Author: DawnLocation: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 2:08 pm


Jennie this has been brilliant, I have so enjoyed reading it

as others have said PLEASE can we have Madge's reaction?


pretty please



pretty pretty please





pretty pretty please with a bottle of baileys?

 


#233:  Author: Catherine_BLocation: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 3:12 pm


Jennie, I enjoyed this so much - and was very glad that Madge got her come-uppance! She was horribly selfish, in the real series as well Evil or Very Mad

Agree with the others that Charles sounds like temptation - but am sure that Sybil will be quite able to cope - whatever way is most fun!

 


#234:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 3:17 pm


If Charles sounds like temptation, I haven't written this properly. To Sybil, Charles is just a dance partner, because Hugh does not enjoy dancing and she does.

Sybil loves Hugh, and marries him in the face of some stiff opposition from her parents, who don't really like him, and would have preferred Sybil to marry a doctor.

However, I cannot prevent speculation. I'm afraid there will not be an epilogue. I've finished this drabble. if anyone else wants to write one, then they are perfectly free and welcome to do so.

 


#235:  Author: PatLocation: Doncaster PostPosted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 3:42 pm


I'm sorry about that Jennie. I was another hoping to see Madge's reaction!

 


#236:  Author: JennieLocation: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 3:46 pm


Well, you can always imagine it for yourself. It might make a good competition for the Gathering. Who can write the best epilogue to Sybil's Revenge.

 


#237:  Author: LauraLocation: London (ish) PostPosted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 4:32 pm


Perhaps you could give us an example of an entrant? *pleading smile* Very Happy - 'Madge was very annoyed' won't do! Rolling Eyes

 


#238:  Author: EllieLocation: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Tue Sep 28, 2004 8:09 pm


Thank you Jennie - I'm so glad that Sybil and Hugh managed to make their escape, aso please that 'goodbye for ever' did not signify anything ominous.
It would be nice if Sybil let Jem know she was ok though, in a roundabout way, but I don't blame her for cutting Madge out of her life.

 




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