You Both Need A Break!

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The CBB -> Cookies & Drabbles

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#801:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Wed Jun 23, 2004 8:45 pm

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Thank you Lesley, that was a nice insight into the staff feelings from the start.

 

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#802:  Author: Ella, Location: Staffordshire Posted: Wed Jun 23, 2004 8:48 pm

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Oh. Poor Jeanne. I'd forgotten that she and Mlle Lepattre were mentioned as being good friends. Thanks for adding yet another dimension, Lesley - still don't know how you do it!
By the way - it was a lovely scene, but you've left Hilda on a clifftop in Scotland and Nell's vanished. Please could you let us know that it's all fine (asking nicely).
Was a bit alarmed by the mention of mines (too much potential for falling in!) and the phrases "middle of wilderness" and "no human habitation"... please can the next post relieve me of my fears....?

 

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#803:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Wed Jun 23, 2004 8:53 pm

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I knew we'd probably be back in Melbourne next (or possibly with the girls). Hilda & Nell will be left dangling for a while I guess!!!!

 

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#804:  Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly! Posted: Wed Jun 23, 2004 8:55 pm

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Argh! Lesley, you plonk us on top of a great big huge cliff like that and then calmly tootle off to the other side of the world!!!! *eebles*

 

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#805:  Author: caz, Location: Cambridge Posted: Wed Jun 23, 2004 8:56 pm

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*gulps at Jeanne's comments*

*wonders what Joey has planned*

*hopes Nell is all right*

 

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#806:  Author: Sophie, Location: Cambridegeshire Posted: Wed Jun 23, 2004 10:12 pm

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Excellent as ever. Perhaps Nell has found a cave like the one in Exile and she's reliving old memories...? Perhaps not. Loved the bit with Jeanne, I never thought about how she must have felt in the beginning, that's not something EBD ever really brought up. I really love all the background you give us, Lesley.

Fingers crossed for Nell, and if something/one has 'got' her, I hope they don't 'get' Hilda as well. Uh oh.

 

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#807:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Wed Jun 23, 2004 10:34 pm

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Eeek!

Don't know why I'm surprised. I was certain that she was going to do that.

Love Jeanne's and Ruth's conversation - it's wonderful to see a side of the characters that EBD didn't really explore after Mdlle died

(There's something wrong with that sentence but I can't be bothered to fix it)

Anyhows, thank you Lesley (mini-update assuring Hilda's and Nell's safety would be very much appreciated, however. Please?)

 

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#808:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2004 12:33 am

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Am just waiting for the cliff to develop at school and then with the girls

Maybe after that Lesley will put us out of our misery re Nell & Hilda




ps was so worried reading about the school and worrying about the potential cliff that could occur every second, that I spilt my drink all over desk, keyboard & me

 

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#809:  Author: Alex, Location: Home again Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2004 5:18 am

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I was thinking Nell might now jump out on Hilda. Besides, Sophie has a proven track record!

 

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#810:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2004 6:06 am

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Hilda the "Philistine" (good job, Nell)

*ponders relevance of less than environmentally sound mining practices and/or evil mine operators to the current cliff*

*admires Jeanne & Ruth's scene*

 

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#811:  Author: Rachael,  Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2004 9:25 am

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What a lovely scene between Ruth & Jeanne!
It must be desperately sad for them to consider the people that they lost before they were able to escape EBD's clutches ...

Are we going to see them at Joey's? Would be nice to see how she's recovering and whether she's back to her old self ...

(and I'm sure you've no intention of moving back to that clifftop quite so soon )

 

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#812:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2004 9:53 am

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Wonderful posts Lesley, just get them out of there!

ETA: don't tell us that the Queen will turn out to be a secret CS fan!

 

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#813:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2004 10:36 am

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Lovely post with Ruth and Jeanne, i'm not even going to ask about Hilda and Nell cos I know we won't find out until your ready!

 

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#814:  Author: Beth, Location: Sunny Isle of Man! Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2004 2:20 pm

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*wails*

I've only just read up to this bit, having read 1, 2 & 3 in complete sittings, after Lesley emailed them to me. I thought the cliffs were just mythical CBB folklore! Why did nobody warn me how scary they are?....and am I allowed to abseil down them, I haven't abseiled for years?

Incidently, I was wondering if, once they've finished saving Scotland from deranged psycopaths, or whatever it is they're about to do, Hilda and Nell will come to the Isle of Man and compete in the TT?

 

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#815:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2004 2:27 pm

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We have trampolines at the bottom so jump!!! Also nice comfy seating areas with all mod cons & any foood that you fancy. Make yoursefl comfy!!!

 

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#816:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2004 7:27 pm

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That afternoon the five travelled in one of the School mini buses to Jack and Joey Maynard’s house. Like Madge, Joey had chosen to live in town, rather than close to the School. For Joey this was a conscious decision as she did not want to have such close ties to the School. She was a permanent member of the board of Real Chalet School Industries, and had, along with Rachel MacDonald, been responsible for finding all the pupils of the School new families. She also supported any Sports Days or other Open occasions at the School. But she was determined to remain at a slight remove, not to interfere in the proper running of the School. In the time that the Chalet School mistresses had been in the real world - 20months for Nancy and Jeanne, 14 months for Kathie, Ruth and Rosalind - they had seen a great difference in Joey Maynard.

At the Maynard house, Jack and Joey Maynard were preparing for their guests; in comparison with their homes when in the fictional world, their house now was far smaller. The entire Maynard family had transferred across to the real world, however most of them did not still live with their parents, having all reached maturity. Only Phillipa, Geoff and Marie-Claire were still at home, all three had enrolled in the Adult wing of the Real Chalet School, although not as boarders. They were all busy trying to catch up on their education, and had spent 20 months as pupils. They all intended to enter university in the New Year.

“Joey, you should be resting, I’m perfectly capable of arranging an afternoon tea! All the stuff is done and in the fridge, I‘ve just got to set the table,” Jack looked across at Joey, the worried expression in his eyes stopping Joey where his words did not.

“Jack, I’m perfectly fit now,” she protested, “It’s more than two weeks since the event, and I’ve had clearance from Daisy.” Joey smiled at her husband, “And compared to Nell, I’ve done very little,”

“You were held for longer than Nell,” Jack retorted, coming back from the kitchen laden with table cloth, mats, coasters and cutlery, “And she doesn’t have your imagination. I doubt if her time with that woman has even fazed her.”

Joey shook her head, “You’re wrong, Jack, Nell was affected by it, she’s just stronger than I am.”

Jack dropped all the items in a convenient chair and walked swiftly over to hold Joey in his arms, “Don’t, Joey,” he said quickly, “Don’t denigrate yourself, you are entitled to feel bad after what happened to you. I know Hilda and Nell spoke to you about it, didn’t they?”

Joey lifted her face up to look into her husband’s eyes, Jack kissed her on the nose, she laughed, “Yes they did, perhaps you are right, Jack, I shouldn’t feel guilty about how I feel.” Her mind flew back to a conversation she had a few nights before Hilda and Nell went on holiday. It was while Joey was still in hospital, Nell had gone to see Kelly Stevens while Jack had disappeared to get some coffee. Only Joey and Hilda were in the room.

“How are you sleeping, Joey?” Hilda asked softly,

Joey smiled, “Oh, much better now, No prob…” her voice wound down as she registered Hilda’s eyes upon her. “Damn, I can’t lie to you!” she said ruefully.

“Few people can, Joey,” Hilda said, smiling, “Now, the truth.”

There was silence for a time, then, face down, not meeting her friend’s eyes, Joey spoke once more, “Every time I close my eyes I’m back there,” she said quietly, her voice very subdued, “I can hear her voice, I feel desperately thirsty, I cannot move.” Joey looked up at Hilda, “It’s as though I’m reliving it over and over again. I don’t think of any of the good things, the talking with Nell, you rescuing us, only the horror.”

Hilda nodded, “What have you told Jack? He’s sleeping here at night, isn’t he?”

Joey nodded, her black eyes haunted, “He is, but Hilda I can’t tell him!”

Hilda reached across to hold Joey, “You must, Jo,” she said, “You need his strength, just as I needed Nell’s over Christmas and more recently.”

“And I needed Hilda’s,” Nell has entered noiselessly, she walked over to sit on the other side of Joey, she placed an arm around Joey, “Tell him, Joey, allow him to help.” she smiled slightly, “If I can admit to needing help then so can you!”

Joey smiled at the memory of the conversation, “OK Jack, I’ll not feel bad about how I’ve reacted. Now,” there was a mischievous light in her eyes, “Are you expecting our guests to eat off of the floor?”

Jack looked puzzled until, following Joey’s gaze, he saw that the tablecloth and everything else had slid out of the chair and onto the floor! With an oath he moved across to gather up all of the items.

Last edited by Lesley on Thu Jun 24, 2004 10:40 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

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#817:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2004 7:41 pm

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Loved that Lesley, especially Joey's conscious decision to distance herself from the school!!! She's more the person she should have grown to be.

 

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#818:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2004 7:51 pm

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Lesley, if you continue in this manner I may actually begin to

*whispers* like Joey

Love the update, glad to see Jack acting as a "solid lump of comfort" again!

 

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#819:  Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly! Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2004 9:00 pm

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Hmm, I'm liking Jo here... thank you Lesley.

 

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#820:  Author: caz, Location: Cambridge Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2004 9:38 pm

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Another fabulous post!

 

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#821:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2004 9:43 pm

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That was great Lesley, but PLEASE can we go back to Nell and Hilda?

 

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#822:  Author: Sophie, Location: Cambridegeshire Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2004 10:32 pm

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I loved this scene. Loved Joey's increased maturity, Hilda's wisdom, Nell's support and the closeness between Joey and Jack. Wonderful stuff! Thank you.

Alex, we can but hope it's something like the cave! With any luck Lesley will have pity on us very, very soon....

 

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#823:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2004 11:28 pm

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Thanks Lesley, that helped cheer me up slightly

Great per normal

btw agree with the addition to the Sig line.... !!

 

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#824:  Author: Rachael,  Posted: Fri Jun 25, 2004 9:58 am

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Marvellous!

Lovely flashback - now may we have the scene where Joey does turn to Jack for help (and could he please give her lots of love and hugs rather than a patent sleeping nostrum? ) so he can do his SLOC act again

Nell & Hilda are wonderful as usual - what a pair of stalwarts!

I know we need to find out what's happening to H&N but I'm also keen to see the interaction between the staff and the Maynards cos Lesley's doind such a great job of bring all the characters alive ...

 

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#825:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Fri Jun 25, 2004 12:34 pm

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Agres with Rachael! Lesley this is fantastic and although i do want to know how Hilda and Nell are I also want to stay in Melbourne! How can you do this to me!!!

 

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#826:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Fri Jun 25, 2004 12:36 pm

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Thank you Lesley, this is great. It was good to see Jo Maynard as she ought to have been.

 

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#827:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Fri Jun 25, 2004 11:55 pm

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Joey watched, smiling, while Jack rushed around ensuring everything was in readiness for when their guests arrived.

‘Strange,’ she thought, ‘During all the years we were in the fictional world together, I don’t think Jack was ever so happy to help me in the house.’ She smiled to herself, ‘Well, help Anna, I should say, she did most of the work!’

It had taken Joey more than six months before she admitted that, even to herself. When they had first transferred over Anna had decided that she wanted to see the world, Joey had given her a generous bonus, more than enough for her to realise her dream of travelling. The last letter she had received from Anna was postmarked South Africa, where it seemed that Anna had met someone special. She was enjoying her life. Joey had not begrudged Anna her dreams, indeed she had encouraged them, finding that, in the real world, she was keen to make a proper home for her family and herself. Although the family were scattered all over the globe, they all returned for celebrations, Christmas and the like.

Since being on her own she had learnt how to run a house properly, and discovered that, while she didn’t enjoy it, she was able to manage. Once her role in placing Real Chalet School pupils with adoptive parents had been confirmed, with a reasonable budget and salary for both herself and Rachel, Joey had employed a cleaner for a few hours a week, but otherwise running the home was shared between herself and Jack.

She remembered a conversation with Jack, not long after he, along with all the San Staff, patients and families had transferred across. Jack and Jem had been tireless in their efforts to ensure that all the patients were admitted to hospital for proper treatment. They had also ensured that all the medical and nursing staff had been given the opportunity to retrain, even helping some of those with limited funds, to enrol on the correct courses. But when Joey had asked when Jack himself was going to retrain he had given her a shock.

“I’m seriously considering not retraining, Joey,” Jack had said solemnly, “I’m too old and set in my ways to start at the bottom again. I’d lose my temper the first time some young child with a still wet qualification tried to give me orders!” He had taken her by the shoulders, “You don’t mind do you, beloved? I know you were always proud of the fact that I was a doctor.” His blue eyes bore into Joey’s black ones and she saw the worry in them.

“Jack, I love you, not the fact that you were a doctor,” she had said firmly, “I have always loved you, and I always will. Whatever you choose to do, so long as you are happy, I am happy.” Joey had then kissed his cheek. Later, after his and Jem’s abortive attempt to take over the Real Chalet School Board, Jack had admitted that he still felt the loss of status that him no longer being a doctor conferred upon him. However, both he and Jem had made a great success of their fitness club and Jack had discovered that he enjoyed the business side, while Jem was good at the day-to-day running of the centre. Both men were far happier now, slowly finding their niche in a totally different world.

Joey had told Jack about her problems with being unable to sleep,; she hadn’t intended to but, before Hilda and Nell had left that evening, Hilda had turned to Jack and said, “Joey has something important to tell you, Jack. She needs your help.”

After that Joey had no option but to tell Jack that she couldn’t sleep. Jack had listened silently then remained deep in thought for a while, “You know, Jo,” he began, “Back in the fictional world, something like this would have been resolved by mixing a tiny dose in your milk.”

“Is that what you intend this time, Jack?”

Jack shook his head, “No, I’ve a better idea!” He moved the furniture around so that Joey’s hospital bed was up against the far wall, then ordered Joey to get into bed. Once she was lain along the wall he got ready for bed himself and then calmly joined Joey in the hospital bed! “Good job both of us are slim,” he remarked.

He opened his arms wide and Joey snuggled into them, “Now Jo, I want you to remember this,” he said softly but firmly, “Inside my arms, you are safe, I will protect you, do you understand?”

Jo, her head against Jack’s chest, nodded slightly.

“Good, now whatever was keeping you awake, it won’t now.” Jack said fiercely, “Nothing hurts my wife!”

They both settled down; Joey fell asleep, safe in his arms, Jack stayed awake, watching over her.

 

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#828:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge Posted: Fri Jun 25, 2004 11:58 pm

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Aaaaaaaaaaaaaah, sweet...

Thank you Lesley

 

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#829:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Fri Jun 25, 2004 11:59 pm

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Aaah! that was worth waiting up for. Thank you Lesley.

 

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#830:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham Posted: Fri Jun 25, 2004 11:59 pm

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aaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

Thats so sweet....... made me want to blub

Thank you Lesley, that was a really nice mushy scene, think I will dream off Jack tonight .

 

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#831:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 12:16 am

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When Nell hadn't appeared after five minutes, Hilda grew annoyed, thinking her friend was playing some joke. When she still had not been found after ten minutes of searching, Hilda grew worried. After fifteen minutes, Hilda took her mobile out of her jacket pocket and called the Police and Mountain Rescue.

 

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#832:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 12:22 am

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*sniffle*
That was just the sweetest thing Lesley!!! But PLEASE let us know Nell's okay soon!!!

 

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#833:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 12:37 am

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Thank you Lesley - nice lil happy sweet update cheered me up

Would be nice if Nell's safety was assured soon though please.

 

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#834:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 10:23 am

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That scene with Joey and Jack was so , loveing and teary, wonderful...and then to tease us like that with 3 sentences about Hilda and Nell!!! You know how to play us so well!

Lesley the puppetmaster!

 

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#835:  Author: Lula, Location: Midlands, UK Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 11:28 am

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I never liked Jack in the books, but that was so sweet...

 

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#836:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 1:26 pm

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Lesley, stop tormenting us! Wibbling about what may have happened to Nell.

 

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#837:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 4:17 pm

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lovely romantic interlude!

but what about Nell?

 

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#838:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 4:46 pm

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Lesley - the wicked tormentor!!!!

 

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#839:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 7:07 pm

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I know your lurking, havn't we suffered enough recently !!!!

 

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#840:  Author: Rebecca, Location: Kendal/Oxford Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 7:25 pm

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Lovely, Lesley.

BUT WHAT ABOUT NELL?!!!

 

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#841:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 7:42 pm

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Kathye wrote:

I know your lurking, havn't we suffered enough recently !!!!

I object to that! If I were lurking I'd not have my name up - I'd hide!

I'm reading other drabbles - will post more on this a little later!
ETA well now!

The tea party at the Maynard home was a great success, they all listened, enthralled, while Jeanne detailed everything that had happened during her trek in the Himalayan mountains. When she reached the final scenes between herself and Matey more than one of them was white with shock.

Afterwards the four friends took it in turns to report on everything that had been happening during the holidays, firstly at the Real Chalet School then, afterwards, all that had happened when on their diving course. As neither the Maynards nor Jeanne had had any idea that the course had been anything other than routine it was with some horror that they listened as both Nancy and Ruth had detailed all that happened, both above and below the waves.

While Nancy was describing her time trapped in the cave with Col, Joey’s gaze happened to alight on Kathie Ferrars’ face. Joey had lost none of her empathic nature and she immediately realised that Kathie was reliving a time exceptionally painful to her. Joey reacted, standing up she said brightly,

“Continue with your story, Nancy, I’ll not be long. I think we could do with a fresh pot of tea. No, it’s alright Jack, I’m up now, you stay here.” she turned to Kathie and smiled, “Kathie, perhaps you could give me a hand?” Kathie looked up, the worried expression on her face fading slightly,

“Of course, Jo,” she said quietly.

In the kitchen, Joey busied herself filling the kettle and rinsing out the cups, Kathie stood watching for a few minutes, not sure quite why Jo needed her help. Once everything else was ready and they were just waiting for the kettle to boil, Jo motioned for Kathie to sit down at the breakfast table, and sat opposite.

“Kathie, please don’t think I’m interfering,” she began very diffidently, “I promised myself I wasn’t going to ‘butt-in’ on things that had nothing to do with me, but it’s very difficult seeing someone in obvious distress.”

Kathie Ferrars smiled slightly, “I don’t think people mind Joey, when it’s done because of friendship. And I could always tell you to get lost!”

Joey looked a little taken aback, having never encountered that reaction to her advances before, she then noticed that Kathie was staring at her intently, waiting for her reaction. She laughed, “Okay, I deserved that, for all the times in the fictional world.” she said ruefully, “But Kathie, you did seem distressed, hearing about what Nancy went through.”

“Of course I was, Jo!” Kathie said abruptly, “Nancy’s a good friend.”

Joey looked across at the younger woman for a while, she made a decision, “Kathie, when I transferred over to this world I was painfully naïve about any number of things. I have tried to educate myself over the past year and a half though. Your relationship with Nancy is more than just friendship, isn’t it?”

“And if it is?” Kathie’s eyes flashed.

Joey swallowed, “I know what some people and establishments, the Catholic Church for example, have to say, Kathie. I also know how I feel.” She reached across to hold Kathie’s hand, “My love for Jack is such that I cannot envisage being complete without him, I know he feels the same about me. That love is so wonderful, so pure, that, in my opinion, it can only come from God.”

“And you think what Nancy and I have does not?” Kathie’s voice was harsh.

Joey shook her head, “I didn’t say that,” she said gently, “Kathie, as far as I’m concerned all love comes from God. If your love happens to be for another woman, I’ll not pretend to understand it, but I will accept that it is from God.”

There was silence for a time, then Kathie laughed, “Sorry Jo, but it’s rather a shock, though a nice one, to hear that. Out of everyone in the fictional world, you would have been the one I expected to deride our choice.”

“If we were still there, Kathie, then I probably would have,” Joey replied, “But I like to think I’ve learnt something since then.” She smiled then poured out tea for both of them, “Now, why don’t we chat about purely inconsequential matters for a few more minutes? By the time we get back Nancy will hopefully have finished relating that she nearly died and you can stop worrying!”

 

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#842:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 8:24 pm

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Thank you Lesley. I was hoping you were going to post when I saw you hanging around in C&D. I won't say lurking but you've been in C&D before and not posted & I never know for sure whether you are deliberately making us wait or not!!! I have my suspicions mind!

 

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#843:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 8:38 pm

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Lovely, but what about Nell?

 

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#844:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 8:59 pm

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yes exactly, its very nice seeing Joey being accepting of Kathie and Nancy but Nell is unaccounted for and she needs rescuing and soon!!

 

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#845:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 10:06 pm

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Awwww!!! Jo is lovely here! Well done Lesley!
But please! Nell?????

 

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#846:  Author: Rachel, Location: Plotting in my lair Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 10:27 pm

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** hoping and praying for a really hunky Mountain Rescue type that I can begin lusting over **

 

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#847:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 10:34 pm

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Lesley, I've been dipping in whenever I can and love how Jo's personality has changed having been freed of the evil EBD's influence but ........








What about Nell?

*chewing fingernails up to elbows*

 

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#848:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 10:57 pm

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Thanks Lesley

 

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#849:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 11:34 pm

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Next bit!

Hilda Annersley had been pleasantly surprised, considering how far from civilisation she was, at how quickly the Police had responded, from the time her call had been put through from the Emergency Operator to the time jeeps and people began to arrive was barely 30minutes. However, during those thirty minutes her concern about her friend had grown intensely. It was probably not a very sensible thing for the policeman to suggest that perhaps Miss Wilson had just decided to move on.

“And exactly how would that be accomplished, Sergeant?” Hilda Annersley responded icily, “If you look down to the road, you will see that both Nell and my bikes are still there. In addition her rucksack, containing her personal belongings including her money and cards is in the alcove just below us. We are miles out in the middle of a National Park, and there is no safe way down from this summit without passing me!”

“Well ma’am preliminary searches have shown nothing, there are no tracks to follow, there are no leads. And it’s only a missing person if someone is away for more than 24 hours.”

Hilda’s eyes bore into the Sergeant, “I am not reporting a missing person,” and her voice was deadly, “Nell Wilson has to have had an accident or something similar, she could be lying hurt this minute. Now I suggest you join your colleagues in looking for her…”

“What is going on here, sergeant?” another voice suddenly broke through Hilda’s reply, she turned to look. The man speaking was in his mid-forties, dark, tall and well-built, dressed for climbing he was obviously well-known to the sergeant who stiffened respectfully.

“Sir, I was just explaining to Miss Annersley that we could not class this as a Missing Person incident for 24 hours.” The sergeant said quickly.

The man looked round, “Hardly necessary to class this, sergeant,” he said reprovingly, “I would have thought this is more likely to be due to some incident or even an accident.” He turned to look at Hilda, “My apologies, ma’am, I don’t want to worry you, but I think that’s the only possible explanation.”

“Quite alright, I had already come to that conclusion,” Miss Annersley replied, “Nell Wilson is an experienced hiker and walker, if she is in difficulty she will know what to do to ensure her survival. I was trying to impress on the sergeant here that time is of the essence.”

The sergeant, somewhat red-faced, spoke again, “Yes ma’am, but there was no need to suggest that you speak to Scotland Yard, we are the experts here.”

The other man turned to look, “Scotland Yard?” he enquired, “Oh and I’m Rick Holland, by the way, Inspector.” He held out a hand.

“Hilda Annersley,” Hilda replied, shaking the hand, “And I only said that if he did not instigate a full search, I would go above his head. When he asked, with some derision, if I knew someone in Scotland Yard, I replied that I had contacts there.”

“I see, well that will not be necessary,” Inspector Holland said quickly, “Sergeant, get a full search team here, now, I want helicopters up within 20 minutes.”

 

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#850:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 11:36 pm

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*on edge of seat*

 

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#851:  Author: Beth, Location: Sunny Isle of Man! Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 11:39 pm

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Yikes!
Having spent the last couple of days hoping desperately that Lesley would return to Hilda and Nell, I'm not sure if I'm happy now she has...I don't think my blood pressure's going to cope...

*goes off to wibble on Nell's behalf*

 

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#852:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 11:41 pm

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Wow!! Real action! I wonder where Nell is?

 

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#853:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Sat Jun 26, 2004 11:42 pm

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That told him! Stupid man. *sticks tongue out at clueless sergeant*

Well, it's official Lesley. I like your Joey. I hope you realise what an accomplishment that is. Saying that I *only* dislike Joey is like saying that that you dislike Hilda!

Did that make sense?

Should maybe slow down on the Archers...

But, am still worried about Nell. Am sure that it's getting a little crowded at bottom of cliff as well. Look, there's no room for me on the trampolines!

 

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#854:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 12:37 am

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I think it would make more sense if you said that Lesley only *likes* Hilda or I think thats the point your trying to make !!

Wow thank you Lesley, so if your on-line but not posting your not lurking just, tantalsing us with your online presence...correct ??

and if you are lurking we wouldn't know cause you'd hide....right that makes sense I think.......but you wouldn't hide from us would you

Were not "THAT" demanding are we ??

Why is it I never know anyone at a "head" Office when I need someone to take action ??

*Wonders if Hilda will ever write a book*

"How to make friends and influence people" or "I did it may way" by Hilda Annersley

Sounds like one of the book reviews from the gathering.
Anyone like to write a review for me ?

 

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#855:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 3:15 am

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*applauds Joey*

*boos Sgt.*

*worries about Nell*

 

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#856:  Author: Alex, Location: Home again Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 7:58 am

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Who on earth does Hilda know at Scotland Yard?!

 

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#857:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 8:14 am

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Alex wrote:

Who on earth does Hilda know at Scotland Yard?!

She has contacts via John Coates - he used them to retrieve the info proving she was in London at the time of the murder in Switzerland - got her out of prison!

 

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#858:  Author: Lula, Location: Midlands, UK Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 11:25 am

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Ooh, Joey's suddenly being so nice! *debates reading Joey Goes again with this new view of Jo* Might make it more bearable.

Oh dear, i hope we find out where Nell is soon...

 

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#859:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 1:02 pm

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I just wish that Lesley would hurry up and rescue Nell. She's not fallen down a hole the way Jo did, has she?

 

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#860:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 2:21 pm

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I'm not sure quite what she's done to her, Jennie - am getting a little worried...

 

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#861:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 4:05 pm

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*wibble*
Lesley???
Where are you????

 

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#862:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 6:00 pm

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Right here, Vikki!

Melbourne

The visit to the Maynards went on for far longer than anyone had anticipated; early evening, Ruth had tried to get everyone to leave, stating that Joey must be getting tired, however she was overruled by Joey herself, who said she felt fine! As Jack and Joey had only anticipated on the five women staying for tea, come about eight pm everyone was hungry again and nothing was prepared. Nancy, Rosalind and Joey undertook to make curry for everyone, following a recipe that Joey could vaguely remember being taught by her brother!

Outside, in the Maynards’ garden, Ruth, Kathie and Jeanne had joined Jack in an impromptu game of badminton. Jeanne had been disposed to complain at first about the fact that having her arm in a sling was a severe disadvantage. However she stopped complaining after she and Kathie won the first three games. It seemed that neither Ruth nor Jack were particularly good!

Despite Joey’s faulty memory the curry was a great success and the group ate outside, around a table on the patio of the Maynards’ large garden. The five mistresses finally left the Maynards late that night, travelling back to the School in the minibus. Once they had reached the School they separated, Nancy and Kathie going to their cottage, while the other three made their way to the Staff House. It is on record that everyone was late up the following day!

Scotland

The search continued for the rest of the afternoon and into the evening, two helicopters, one from the Coastguard, one from a nearby RAF base, searched across the mountains, while men and women from Mountain Rescue searched on foot. Far below, the managers of the mine were informed and brought operations there to a halt so that their men could join the search. Nell Wilson was not found. The only clue was the binoculars, found some sixty feet down from the top, wedged into a crack between two rocks.

During all of this Hilda Annersley waited; a lonely figure stood at the top of the mountain, staring down the slope. The police sergeant had given up trying to persuade her that she should go home, rest, drink. Indeed, she seemed to intend staying there all night. Finally, as the sun was setting and the wind was rising, the Inspector appeared once more.

“We’re going to have to call off the search for tonight, Miss Annersley,” he said softly, “we’ll resume at first light tomorrow.”

“You mean she’ll have to spend the night out here?” Hilda’s voice was bleak.

The Inspector moved closer and placed a hand on her shoulder, “You said she’s an experienced hiker? Then she’ll know what to do to survive. We’ll find her.”

Miss Annersley swallowed, she looked up at the Inspector, “Yes,” she agreed, “Nell’s a survivor.” She paused for a moment to look round, “I’ll take Nell’s things back with me,” she said practically, “And ride back to our cottage. Her bike will be alright there?”

“Of course, perhaps, when she’s found tomorrow, she can ride it back herself.” the Inspector smiled slightly. “Are you sure you’ll be able to manage?”

Miss Annersley nodded, “Yes, I’ll be here first thing tomorrow,” she said firmly, “You have my mobile number, in case of any news?”

“We do, we also have Miss Wilson’s number, there’s been no response yet but we’ll keep trying.”

Hilda Annersley nodded and made her way back down the slope to where the bikes were parked. She picked up both rucksacks on the way. Once there she quickly got changed before getting onto the bike. A swift look around and she could see a number of figures making their way down the slopes in the gathering gloom. She looked once across at Nell’s bike before starting her bike engine and roaring off, back to the cottage.

 

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#863:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 6:03 pm

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Oh poor Hilda! That was very graphic Lesley.

 

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#864:  Author: Lula, Location: Midlands, UK Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 6:54 pm

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Poor Hilda... and poor Nell, too, wherever she is.

 

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#865:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 7:07 pm

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eeeeeeekkkkk

Poor Hilda, she must have been torn wanting to stay, but knowing there was nothing she could do in the dark, and yet feeling like she was abandoning Nell by going home What a choice !!

Any chance that we might find Nell tonight ??

 

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#866:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 7:08 pm

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Thank you Lesley, but "Wibble!!"
Please let them find Nell safe and well!

 

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#867:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 8:49 pm

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Melbourne Thursday 7th October 2004

The next day, Thursday, started out rather late. Ruth, the first to awaken, did so about nine o’clock, as soon as she realised the time she rang Nancy and Kathie and then banged on Rosalind’s door. Being the minibus driver the night before probably explained why she was first up, her only problem was tiredness, for the others they had to deal with mild hangovers - Jack had been somewhat generous with the alcohol the night before! However, before ten, all four friends were sat in the Head’s Study enjoying a very welcome cup of coffee.

“Well, I can’t remember ever enjoying myself more at Jack and Joey’s!” Ruth smiled at everyone else, “It was great fun.”

“Must try and remember that curry recipe,” Nancy smiled, “Ros, we’ll have to have a chat, try and write down everything Joey said!”

“Bit difficult, Nance,” Rosalind smiled, “I think she was making it up as she went along!”

The four all laughed before separating to their various tasks; after almost two weeks, everyone was able to race through the tasks. The Chemistry Lab was completed by lunchtime, the final coat of paint applied that morning. Kathie joined Nancy when she walked over to check out how the contractors were dealing with the building work. She discovered that the foundations were complete and that the contractor had just started building work. She stopped to speak to the foreman,

“The School reopens for a new term on October 18th,” she began, “Only eleven days time. We’ll have girls of all ages, from three upwards, on -site then. How save can you make this site?”

The foreman thought for a time, “Eleven days? We’ll have a fair amount done by then, but no construction site is fully safe. I’ll contact another branch of the firm, get them to come in over the weekend to put up a strong fence, so the girls cannot get in. I’ll tell him to make it as secure as possible - don’t want any of them trying to get in here on a dare!”

“Oh you’ve met our Middles then?” Kathie laughed.

The foreman laughed, “No, but I’ve got twin eleven year old girls of my own. Still tom boys and can’t resist a challenge!”

That afternoon the friends spent at Nancy and Kathie’s cottage; Jeanne joined them and they spent a peaceful afternoon watching videos. Early evening Rosalind disappeared saying she had a date, but the others stayed. Nancy had heard from Col about the dive that the Instructors were planning for the weekend; they still held open the invite for the four.

“Sounds really interesting,” Ruth said, “A little different too, rather than looking at flora and fauna, we’ll be searching for evidence of a wreck!”

“Pity it’s only the wreck of a private yacht,” Kathie smiled, “Just think, If Madge had decided to open the Real Chalet School in the Caribbean, we could be looking for Spanish Treasure!”

 

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#868:  Author: catherine, Location: York Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 9:39 pm

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Thanks, Lesley. It's lovely to see them all getting along so well.

 

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#869:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 10:14 pm

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It's lovely to see them all getting on so well Lesley, but please, Nell is still missing!!!!!!

*sits dejectedly at bottom of cliff with chin in hands and decides that the only possible resolution is to become a spineless jellyfish until Nell is found*

 

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#870:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 10:21 pm

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I wonder whose yacht it is.

 

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#871:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 10:42 pm

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Scotland

The journey back to the cottage seemed to take no time at all; when Hilda Annersley arrived back she saw that it was dark and estimated that the journey had actually taken almost two hours. She remembered nothing of it. Inside, she busied herself setting a fire - it was very chilly - before cooking something for her evening meal. She may as well have saved her energy though, because once on the plate, Hilda found she wasn’t hungry. She scraped it into the kitchen pedal bin and made herself a drink.

Sitting in the lounge she thought of letting others know about the fact that Nell was missing. Her hand reached out to the telephone but then stopped.

“Why are you doing this?” she thought, “So that others can go through exactly the same feelings that you are experiencing? What can any of them do, in Australia? It will just mean they will worry. Better to leave it until I have some definitive news.” She sat back, sipping her tea almost mechanically. Her thoughts flew to Alison, Louise and Carol, “Now they are at least closer,” she thought, “But, again, it’s not fair to burden them just yet. I’ll wait until I have news.”

She didn’t even attempt to go to bed, instead staying, sat in the lounge, occasionally placing more wood on the fire. Perhaps from 4am she did sleep for a while, uncomfortably in the chair, but was awake again before dawn. She had a drink and a quick shower before getting changed into her leathers. She had just dressed when there was a knock at the door. It was the Police Sergeant from the day before. Hilda looked at him in silence for a few short seconds, then,

“She’s been found?”

The Sergeant nodded, “Yes ma’am, I’m here to take you to her,”

Where is she?”

The Sergeant hesitated, “She’s been taken, by air ambulance to the nearest hospital with ITU facilities. She’s bad, ma’am,” he looked her straight in the eye, “very bad.”

Hilda took a deep breath, “Take me to her,” she ordered.

 

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#872:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 10:45 pm

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Well at least she is in the righht place now.

Will we know what happened anytime soon???

 

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#873:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 10:45 pm

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Lesley, that was a very lovely, shiny post, but please may we have Nell's scene soon?????

 

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#874:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 10:48 pm

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I don't trust that policeman a bit!!! I think he'll take Hilda to Nell OK, but it won't be any hospital.

Last edited by Pat on Sun Jun 27, 2004 10:50 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

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#875:  Author: Rachel, Location: Plotting in my lair Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 10:48 pm

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interesting that the search was called off until morning, yet they found Nell before Hilda got there at the crack of dawn!


I vote we arrest the policeman and question him further - he sounds liek a dodgy character.

 

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#876:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge Posted: Sun Jun 27, 2004 11:46 pm

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*wibbling and eebling and then wibbling some more*

 

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#877:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 4:57 am

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She sat in the front passenger seat, the sergeant next to her, driving. To begin with there was silence, broken by the sergeant,

“The Inspector called me, ma’am. He’d had some people out looking from before it was properly light. Found her not long after starting the search.”

“Have you seen her?”

“No ma’am, the Inspector called me at home, it sounds as though she was very close to where they were searching yesterday. Real pity they didn’t find her then.”

“Yes.”

The rest of the journey was made in silence, the hospital was a little under 90 minutes drive away, as normally reckoned; the sergeant did it in just over an hour. Leading her through the hospital he brought her to the doors of ITU. A nurse came out to greet her.

“I’ll leave you here, ma’am,” the sergeant said quietly, “Hope your friend is OK.”

“Thank you, sergeant.” Hilda turned toward the nurse,

“They’re just examining her, Miss?”

“Annersley,” Hilda replied, “How is she?”

“You’ll have to speak to the doctors Miss Annersley,” the nurse replied, “I’ll just check,” she disappeared inside to return a few minutes later.

“You can see her now.” she said.

 

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#878:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 7:30 am

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Xanthe wrote:

*wibbling and eebling and then wibbling some more*

*Adds a descant to Xanthe's eebles*

 

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#879:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 9:28 am

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Lesley, my heart was in my mouth then, and I felt really sorry that I've had breakfast.

Wibbling at the thought that I might have to wait until this evening. Or Wednesday!

 

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#880:  Author: Lula, Location: Midlands, UK Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 10:42 am

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Oh dear... please let her be okay!

 

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#881:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 10:42 am

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I can't beleive I've just read everything since Fridays nights post to be left there!!!!

Nooo! Whats happened, how is she? Lesley please come and put me out of my torment!

 

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#882:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 11:12 am

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Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarrrrrgggggggggggggggghhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!


*hyperventilating*

 

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#883:  Author: Rachael,  Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 12:07 pm

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Wow ...
Why do I always miss so much at weekends?!!

Loved the Jack & Joey scene - wonderful to see them so close and happy together
Grinned at Lesley's short post re Hilda & Nell - very wicked!!
Loved the Joey & Kathie scene - caught my breath but relieved to see that it panned out OK
Giggled at the curry cos couldn't stop thinking about Joey's culinary escapades with sandwiches!!
Really felt for Hilda when she had that last look at Nell's bike ... sooo poignant ....

Now, very, very, very concerned for Nell and the state Hilda will find her in ...

 

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#884:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 12:52 pm

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It's the penalty for going away for the weekend, Rachael. I hate Wednesdays when I don't get any Net access unless I go to the library, and I get only an hour then.

 

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#885:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 12:53 pm

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Rachael wrote:

Wow ... Why do I always miss so much at weekends?!!

I agree! I always think this on Monday mornings!!!

 

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#886:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 2:20 pm

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*sits in corner and wibbles nervously*

 

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#887:  Author: Rosie, Location: Huntingdonshire Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 3:17 pm

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*joins Vikki in the corner wibbling nervously*

 

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#888:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 4:28 pm

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We're all wibbling, is Nell going to be all right? What happened to her?

 

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#889:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 6:57 pm

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Hilda Annersley was shown into the ITU, there was only one patient, Nell Wilson. A nurse was stood, checking machinery, and there was a lot of machinery. The first thing that Hilda noticed was the ventilator; connected via a tube in Nell’s mouth, it was breathing for her, regular breaths in and out, as the machine pumped air in Nell’s chest rose, when the machine released the pressure Nell’s chest fell. Hilda’s gaze moved to her friend’s face, Nell’s eyes were taped shut and there was a large bandage on her head, it was blood stained. A heart monitor showed that Nell’s heart was beating regularly, if a little slow; Hilda recognised the rhythm from her sessions using a defibrillator. There were also some lines going into veins and a blood pressure monitor.

Hilda sat beside her friend, holding her hand. When the nurse came close she asked her about Nell’s condition, but the nurse shook her head and said gently that she would have to speak to the doctor.

At that moment a number of people entered the room, Hilda looked round as a woman came up to her, “Miss Annersley? I’m Pauline Morris, Senior Charge Nurse for ITU, these gentlemen wish to speak to you."”

Hilda nodded and rose; she followed the Charge Nurse out of the room and along the corridor to a small office. One of the men, a distinguished man in his fifties stepped forward,

“Miss Annersley, I am Edward McAllen, Consultant Neurologist, these are Angus Johnson, Consultant Anaesthetist and Jock Penner, Consultant Neurosurgeon.”

Miss Annersley shook hands with all three and they all sat. She looked across at the men; “Can you tell me the condition of Miss Wilson?”

Dr McAllen nodded; “I understand that you are her next-of-kin, Miss Annersley?” the man’s voice was gentle.

“Yes, I have both of our passports with me,” Hilda replied, “they have the details on them.”

“Excellent,” the doctor stopped for a moment before continuing, “Miss Wilson has sustained only one injury, Miss Annersley, but, as I’m sure you could tell, it was a head injury.” He stood up and walked over to the far wall, there was an X-ray box upon it, he flicked it on. “These are Miss Wilson’s X-rays, they have confirmed that there is a massive fracture to the skull. This has, in turn, caused extensive damage to the underlying structure, the brain. I’m afraid there is no easy way to say this,” he looked directly into the woman’s eyes. “My colleague and I have performed all the checks required, there is no doubt.”

“No doubt of what, Doctor McAllen?”

“Your friend is being kept alive by the ventilator,” McAllen replied, “Without it she would die, but, more importantly, there is no evidence of any brain activity. The head injury was so severe that basically, your friend is already dead.”

Hilda swallowed sharply and took a deep breath, “A ventilator does not cause a heart to beat.”

“No, Miss Annersley, but the heart is a very specialised muscle, it will continue to beat even without any external stimulation, at least it will until it no longer has an oxygen supply.”

Jock Penner leant forward, “Miss Annersley, by law it is required that two neurology specialists perform a series of checks, when brain death is suspected. Dr McAllen and I have performed those checks; it confirmed our suspicions.” He passed across two EEG tracings, one a normal trace, showing brain waves, the other showed no brain activity. “The second trace is the one from your friend,” he said apologetically, “As you can see there are obvious differences.”

Hilda looked at the two traces intently, she then looked at the X-ray again, “I’ve heard of people, in a coma for years, suddenly regain consciousness?” The question was very faint, as though she were already aware of the answer.

Dr Johnson replied, “Yes, they are rare but can occur. The patient is in what is termed a Persistent Vegetative State, but they will always have some brain activity, Miss Wilson has none.” The Anaesthetist stirred uncomfortably, “Unfortunately, Miss Annersley, this means that we must ask you to make a very difficult decision.”

Hilda Annersley stood up and walked over to the window, gazing out onto a normal scene outside, a park, children playing. She didn’t look round but did reply, “You need my permission to switch off the ventilator,” she said flatly.

“Yes, ma’am,”

Last edited by Lesley on Sat Aug 14, 2004 10:56 am; edited 1 time in total

 

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#890:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 7:37 pm

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No. I will not rise.

 

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#891:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 7:58 pm

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Maybe not, Pat but I will!

Lesley, don't do it!

 

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#892:  Author: Angel, Location: London, England Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 8:37 pm

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Reading RCS made me think

rule 1: Trust Lesley that she loves Hilda and Nell
rule 2: You're always safest when you're on the edge of a cliff - you know exactly where you are, as opposed to wandering over rabbit holes and falling down them when merrily skipping along.
rule 3: It will all come right in the end.
rule 4: It's a rollercoaster, not a runaway train
rule 5: It is only a story - even if it's brilliant, addictive and totally compelling

Lesley - brilliant as usual

 

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#893:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 8:46 pm

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Lesley, more please.

 

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#894:  Author: Pim - thrown off!,  Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 8:49 pm

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Argh, just as I got half way through catching up 3 days on this I got thrown off the net and then got too hooked to go back and log in. I'm sitting here wibbling and crying hoping it will all be alright soon. *stumbles off to look for the tissues*

 

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#895:  Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 8:52 pm

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I do trust Lesley, I do trust Lesley, I do trust Lesley, I do trust Lesley...I think! I know the neurosurgeons must have made a mistake, or that Nell is much stronger than they think.

Basically all of that is just a way of asking for more, please Lesley!







ps - don't try to watch Henman with 3 match points and read RCS at the same time - you can't concentrate on either!

 

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#896:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 9:05 pm

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*wibbling for Nell's life*

 

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#897:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 9:13 pm

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Hmm, well, erm, quite,

Lesley does not kill her characters, but I can't see any way out of this.

*confused*

 

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#898:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 9:15 pm

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Maybe it's all an evil conspiracy and the doctors are a set up??????????

Hilda, please take your time to think about this decision

 

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#899:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 10:01 pm

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There was silence for some time, then the Neurosurgeon spoke again, “Believe me, Miss Annersley, we know how this feels, but it must be done.”

Hilda spun round, “Tell me, Mr Penner,” she said sharply, “Have you ever been asked to kill a friend? No? Then you have no idea how this feels!” She turned to look out of the window once more. After a short time Dr McAllen stepped up beside her,

“Forgive us, Miss Annersley, we sometimes forget just how dreadful a decision this is. Have you any friends or family who can give you support?”

Miss Annersley turned to look at the doctor, she shook her head, “My friends are almost all in Australia,” she said quietly, “My family,” she paused, “My family is in that room.” She went to look out of the window then stopped, as something occurred to her, “Oh, we do have joint Guardianship over…I mean, I have Guardianship over some girls. Three of them are in Nottingham at present, but I cannot allow them to have this decision.”

She swallowed slightly and drew in a deep breath, “I cannot make this decision, yet, allow me some time, gentlemen,” she said quietly, “I must speak to Nell.”

Walking back into ITU, Hilda resumed her seat next to Nell; she took her hand once more. The nurse in the room stood back, away from the scene.

Hilda looked down at the hand, “You feel warm, Nell,” she said quietly, “You have a good colour, I can even feel your pulse. Apart from the ventilator and the bandage I would say you were sleeping. But they tell me that it is all illusion, that your colour, warmth, pulse are all because your heart doesn’t know when to stop, even when there’s no longer anything directing it. You always were stubborn!

It’s not fair, Nell, after all we’ve been through, escaping Elinor, last term, everything, for you to die in a stupid, avoidable accident. It’s not right. If you’re already dead maybe you can ask God why. Saying it’s ‘God’s Will’, that it’s for a purpose doesn’t sound too good at the moment. Doesn’t sound like a good enough reason.”

She took a few deep breaths and wiped suddenly wet eyes, “You gave me back my life, Nell, you made it worth living again. If it meant that you’d survive, I’d go back to Elinor right now.” She laughed slightly, “Yes, I know, that’s me sacrificing myself again. But without you here to keep me focused, well…”

There was silence for a time, and the tears started to flow, “I could refuse, you know, tell them I don’t accept their findings, allow this machine to continue breathing for you. I’d come in to see you every day. But all that would achieve would be two wasted lives, instead of just one. And I couldn’t do that to you, you have always been active. What would you think, seeing yourself stuck in this bed for the rest of eternity? Waiting until your heart decides to follow your soul.”

She stood up and bent to kiss Nell’s cheek, “I couldn’t do that to you, so instead I’ll just say that I owe you everything, and I’ll live for both of us. It was an honour knowing you, Helena Margaret Wilson.”

She walked out of the room and across to where the doctors waited, she swallowed slightly, tears still streaming down her cheeks, then spoke, “Very well, gentlemen, you have my permission.”

 

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#900:  Author: Dot, Location: Ireland Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 10:06 pm

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Noooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

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#901:  Author: Angel, Location: London, England Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 10:11 pm

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*calm*

It'll all be right in the end. Even if it does mean that they all wind up quitting the shadowlands for good.

 

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#902:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 10:13 pm

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uuhhhhh

buuuuuuuuuu

yooooooooooooooo

nooooooooo

ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

there are no words

 

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#903:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 10:19 pm

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That was beautiful.



nothing more to say.

 

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#904:  Author: Sophie, Location: Cambridegeshire Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 10:33 pm

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OK, clutching at straws now, how much of Nell's face was visible below the bandages that covered her head? Are we ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN that it's Nell in the hospital bed? Maybe they found some other hapless walker. Why have we not yet heard where she was found? What actually happened? Did she just fall off the hill? Or what? And how come she wasn't found yesterday? How come they were searching before it was light when they said they were going to start when it got light? Who was it that was suspicious of the policeman? I'm with you. It could all be a set up. Or, an honest mistake. Either way, I'm not giving up hope yet.

One thing's for sure....Lesley, we need some more of this, soon! Please!

 

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#905:  Author: Cathy, Location: Australia Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 10:34 pm

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Hey! (Reading panic stricken on Tuesday morning.) Lesley, come back and put me out of my misery.

Please let Bill be ok!
Please let Bill be ok!
Please let Bill be ok!
Please let Bill be ok!
Please let Bill be ok!
Please let Bill be ok!
Please let Bill be ok!
Please let Bill be ok!
Please let Bill be ok!
Please let Bill be ok!
Please let Bill be ok!
Please let Bill be ok!

Please?

 

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#906:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 10:46 pm

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nothing to say -absolutely gobsmacked

 

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#907:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 11:31 pm

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*curled up small and waiting*

 

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#908:  Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool Posted: Mon Jun 28, 2004 11:32 pm

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echo all of the above. Very moving and emotional.

 

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#909:  Author: Rachel, Location: Plotting in my lair Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 12:07 am

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Hooray!

A death!

COoooooooooooooooooooooooooool!

 

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#910:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 12:56 am

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Maybe this was just the bad dream that Hilda had during the night while she slept on the chair (clutching at straws here)

Please Lesley





ETA now know why the board had so few new messages wehn I logged on

 

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#911:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 1:33 am

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NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!
LESLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEYY!

YOU CAN'T DO THIS!!!!!!!!!

PLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEASE!

 

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#912:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 3:50 am

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No!!!!
Hilda could not do this!!!!
At least not in less than 24 hrs (persistent vegetative state??), and without letting anyone else say goodbye, and without even arranging for a priest before pulling the plug, and ....

 

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#913:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 7:35 am

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*Hoping Dawn is right*
*Agreeing with Kathy*
*Clutching at Angel's list*

*thinking in asterisks again *

 

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#914:  Author: Nicole, Location: New Zealand Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 8:24 am

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*echoes what everyone else is saying*

Lesley - you CANNOT kill Nell!!!

Please....

 

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#915:  Author: Rachael,  Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 9:01 am

---

 

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#916:  Author: Kathryn, Location: Melbourne/Hamilton until 11 September Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 9:12 am

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Well said Rachael!

 

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#917:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 9:29 am

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No!!!


Surely no????



Oh my goodness, that was such a beautiful scene, exactly what Hilda would say, I can't believe Lesley would take her to that point and not mean it this time..... but it's so needless

Maybe this is the moment where Hilda's beautiful voice creates a miracle & Nell's brain switches back on?

straws - clutch

Um, Lesley, would you let us gather round the bed and sing the Red Sarafan just in case???

 

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#918:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 9:36 am

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Rachael, is that reaction trying to make us believe that you don't know what is happening?

 

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#919:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 10:29 am

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Noooooooooooooooooo! But, but, but Nell was my favourite, she can't have died!!! How am I supposed to concentrate on work now...

*retreats to corner in shock and wibbling*

 

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#920:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 10:49 am

---

Have broken my rule & logged on here first and

THERE'S STILL NO UPDATE




Didn't sleep well last night at all

 

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#921:  Author: Lula, Location: Midlands, UK Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 2:11 pm

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Erm... *tries to inconspicuously wipe eyes and pretend not to have been crying*

How can you do that?

 

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#922:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 2:18 pm

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I have been saying for a while that it looks like Lesley has been preparing the melbourne 4 to be major characters and to take over from Hilda and Nell................!

I love everyone's response to this and bet Lesley is lapping it up.

 

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#923:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 2:21 pm

---

I have a sneaky suspicion that these doctors want to harvest Nell's organs; they are part of a conspiracy.

Don't let them have them, Hilda!

Chanting the Red Sarafan, well, we have to do something.

Sneaks off, blushing.

 

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#924:  Author: Nicci, Location: UK Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 3:21 pm

---

what *screeches* there's no more?

Lesley, I've just sat and caught up on a week's worth, and now i'm sitting here feeling physically sick about Nell. You can not leave it there. Please post soon.

*goes off to cry*

 

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#925:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 3:27 pm

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Don't be a spineless jellyfish, Nicci. Go and join the vigil for Nell in BV. I believe that Lesley is waiting for us all to burst into tears before she posts more.

 

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#926:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 3:30 pm

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I'm sure she'll laugh when she sees all these posts too!!!

 

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#927:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 4:05 pm

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There's absolutely no doubt about that. She's bound to pull something out of the hat, and then she'll laugh even more!

 

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#928:  Author: pygmy, Location: glasgow Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 4:07 pm

---

Could it be that, since Nell hasn't always been in the real world, her brain scan won't be accurate?
*keeping fingers crossed*

 

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#929:  Author: Cumbrian Rachel, Location: near High Wycombe Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 4:54 pm

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NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! Surely Nell can't be killed off - can she....?


*waiting on tenterhooks!*

 

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#930:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 7:11 pm

---

Okay, that's it. There is NO WAY that I can revise tonight. I'll be checking for updates every two minutes.

Does wibbling on a drabble compound to become dribbling?

Maybe - maybe the machine is broken! Or maybe Hilda's voice COULD bring her back to life?

*sighs and starts singing The Red Sarafan*

Hey, maybe if we sing loudly enough and badly enough, Nell'll wake up just to tell us to shut up!!! It's worth a try!

 

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#931:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 8:08 pm

---

There was silence for a moment before the men reacted; Edward McAllen nodded slightly, “We’ll arrange for the appropriate papers for you to sign, Miss Annersley. We’ll also need to check your passport and that of Miss Wilson, or some other document that confirms that you are next of kin.”

Hilda Annersley nodded, “Before everything else,” she said quickly, her voice still strong despite her tears, “I would be grateful if you could arrange for a priest to visit.”

“You wish to speak to the hospital chaplain? Of course…” Mr Penner stopped as Miss Annersley shook her head, “No, not for me, for Nell.” She looked round at the men, “Nell is a practising Roman Catholic,” a pause, during which her eyes darkened, “was a practising Roman Catholic, she’ll need a priest to administer Last Rites.” After saying this Hilda returned to Nell’s side, keeping vigil.

It seemed to take hours before everything was arranged, the correct papers to sign, finding the priest, checking documents. Hilda didn’t mind, all the time, before anything concrete was happening, she could pretend that Nell was merely sleeping. She’d been there about an hour when Inspector Holland appeared, sitting beside her he spoke softly,

“I’m sorry, Miss Annersley,” he began, “Sorry we didn’t find her before, she lay only just outside the area we’d searched the night before. Perhaps if we had…”

He was interrupted, “The doctors feel that, even if she had been found immediately, it would have made no difference,” Hilda said softly, her eyes still on Nell’s face, “You shouldn’t blame yourself.” She turned to look at the Inspector momentarily, before returning her gaze to her friend.

A short time later a Catholic Priest appeared, he spoke to Miss Annersley first, apologising that the normal hospital priest was away, hence the time taken for him to arrive. He immediately commenced the Last Rites, to allow Nell Wilson’s soul to gain repose. Hilda watched silently, mouthing the words with the priest, as far as she was concerned Nell had already entered Heaven, but the rituals must be performed. A few times she almost stuttered over the words, but mainly remembered them exactly.

As the priest finished the room seemed to fill up with people; the Anaesthetist took his place at the head of the bed, he gently explained to everyone present that he intended to disconnect the ventilator, this would allow the patient to die. He checked again with the two specialists as to their findings and asked Hilda Annersley to confirm that she had given permission. He then flicked a switch on the machine, it powered down and he swiftly disconnected the machine from the tube in Nell’s throat, noting the time as he did so. All eyes turned to the patient, after the final exhalation there were no other breaths, within seconds the heart monitor began to beep a warning, the reading on the screen showed a flat line.

Hilda sat, her head in her hands, sobbing. After less than a minute Inspector Holland called across the Sergeant who had just returned. “Take her out, Sergeant, get her a cup of tea or something.”

The policeman nodded and gently persuaded Hilda to leave the room. The door closed with an air of finality behind them.

 

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#932:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 8:48 pm

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Well I know most people still don't think you have killed Nell off, you could autopsy and burry her and I still think people would believe you would pull somehting out of the bag. I have a just a few things to say:
1. Brilliantly written, love the darkening of Hilda's eyes as she changes tenses, with the way Hilda's eyes are used in the series this is a wonderful touch.

2. Hilda believes that it Nell and that Nell is dead,

Quote:

as far as she was concerned Nell had already entered Heaven, but the rituals must be performed

3. If you are stringing us along then you are a master storyteller cos I can't see any way out of this, and I know you don't repeat yourself or get as corny as singing her alive again.

4. If Nell is dead (which I think she is) then you are very very brave, think back to the night of silence when everyone thought you had killed Hilda and to the 'let's torture lesley' thread at the same time (which will NOT happen this time before anyone gets any ideas).


This is a wonderful storyline whatever Lesley, and it must be costing you dear to write it. Thank you.

 

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#933:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 8:56 pm

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*sobs*

*sobs harder*

Lesley, that was such a touching post. Thank you so much for writing it

*walks off trying to cry and smile at the same time*

 

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#934:  Author: Angel, Location: London, England Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 9:33 pm

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*cries*

 

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#935:  Author: Nicole-As-Guest,  Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 9:34 pm

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I knew I shouldn't log on at work



Beautifully written, Lesley.

 

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#936:  Author: Ella, Location: Staffordshire Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 10:24 pm

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NO! NO! NO!
*Holding out a very soggy hanky as a gesture of defeat*
Lesley, that was beautifully written, and superb but don't break our hearts! Please say there's some way out of this. Wishing for a miracle. Please.

 

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#937:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 10:28 pm

---

 

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#938:  Author: Nell as guest,  Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 10:47 pm

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Not sure now whether I'm wishing i hadn't checked this or not...

Incredibly well written Lesley. Thank you.

*sobs*

 

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#939:  Author: Nicci, Location: UK Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 10:47 pm

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Blank. Feeling absolutely blank.

 

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#940:  Author: Cathy, Location: Australia Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 10:48 pm

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Speechless ...

Still hoping this is a bad dream or something.

 

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#941:  Author: Katarzyna, Location: Preston, Lancashire Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 10:49 pm

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Lesley - Thank you

that must have been really difficult to write, much more so than for us to read.

Looking forward to the next installment

 

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#942:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 11:00 pm

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nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!

Lesley!!!!!!!!!!

*wanders off in a state of shock, cursing Carolyn for deleting the tissue box............................*

 

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#943:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 11:04 pm

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I really hoped this was going to come to a different ending. Poor Hilda

 

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#944:  Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2004 11:06 pm

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*speechless*

thank you Lesley. Can't imagine what it took to write that. ... ... ...

*still mainly speechless*

 

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#945:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 12:35 am

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Lesley that was incredible writing

It may not be what we wanted to read, but it was so well told & like many things life doesn't always give us what we want

Many thanks





ETA - it's only 00.38 & I'm the only person on the board!

 

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#946:  Author: Alex, Location: Home again Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 2:37 am

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Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaargh! I don't know when I can next log on. What happened to Nell? DId she fall or was she pushed?


ETA I hope if Nell really is dead that Hilda is going to donate her organs.

Last edited by Alex on Wed Jun 30, 2004 3:35 am; edited 1 time in total

 

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#947:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 2:47 am

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Speechless! So well written.

 

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#948:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 2:55 am

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NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I should never have logged on at work, even after I was sure everyone had gone home, since someone just came in and caught me in major tears, which I can't seem to control. The writing is uncannily realistic. Not Nell, too!!!

 

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#949:  Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 10:30 am

---

 

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#950:  Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet! Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 11:21 am

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Ok so should not disappeared from the board with RCS going on i just read from around page 20 have laughed and now am close to tears.

Lesley please please please (yes this is me begging) tell us what happends to Nell soon as i go away on sunday til the 28th of july and NEED to know before i go!

 

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#951:  Author: Lula, Location: Midlands, UK Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 11:27 am

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Um. Am speechless.

 

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#952:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 12:07 pm

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Lesley, that was so beautifully written, really heart-wrenching.

 

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#953:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 12:12 pm

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I feel I must post something here, so this is it. I am really enjoying this Lesley - especially the last two posts! Brilliantly written as always. Keep up the good work.

 

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#954:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 2:16 pm

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Melbourne

Thursday evening saw Rosalind and Geoff returning from visiting Kelly, midway through the evening. As they drew up in Geoff Stevens’ car outside the Staff House Geoff turned to Ros,

“Is Ruth around? Perhaps we can cadge a coffee!”

Rosalind smiled, “She’s gone with the others to the pictures. Apparently they’ve got a special showing of Troy - with a lot of the cut bits back in.”

“Oh, from what I remember, when I saw it in June, it’s a good film.”

Yes, well Nancy and Jeanne both said they were interested in how much it deviated from the Iliad,” Rosalind smiled, “While Kathie said she was interested in the city of Troy itself.”

“What about Ruth?”

“She said she was interested in Brad Pitt’s legs!” Rosalind replied dryly.

They wandered across the grounds, chuckling, coming to a stop near the building works Geoff spoke again, “Just like to apologise for always having to have our dates near the hospital,” he said quickly, “I mean, I know we go into town for a meal, but we’ve not gone any further afield.”

Rosalind reached up to kiss his cheek, “Don’t be silly, I know why, you have to be close to Kelly. It’s not a problem.”

“Glad you understand,” Geoff Stevens replied, he paused for a moment before continuing, “Weekend after next, before the School starts on the Monday, how do you fancy a night away?”

Rosalind looked round, interested and Geoff went on, “The girls are back from holiday and Kelly will not lack for visitors. I did check with her, she’s OK about it.”

Rosalind Moore thought for a minute, “I’d love to, Geoff,” she said with a smile.

Geoff returned the smile, “One thing Ros,” he said seriously, “And I’m not pressurising you either way. Should I book one room, or two?”

Scotland

The Sergeant evidently didn’t think tea would be of help; he guided Miss Annersley out of the hospital and into a nearby pub. Sitting her in an empty corner he disappeared up to the bar, to return a few minutes later with two small glasses of whisky.

“May not be your drink, ma’am,” he said gruffly, “But it’ll help.”

Hilda Annersley had, in the time he had been away, managed to stop crying and restore her face to something approaching normality. She smiled very slightly, “It’s not my drink, Sergeant,” she said, a little shakily, “but it is extremely appropriate. Thank you.” She sipped the drink, savouring the taste even while also disliking it.

“What are you going to do now, ma’am,” the policeman sounded worried.

Hilda took a deep breath, “I will have to contact my friends, in Australia. But first, I’ll travel down to Nottingham, to tell the girls. This is not something I can tell them over the telephone.”

“It’s a great pity they were not here with you,”

Hilda shook her head, “No, if they had been here, they would have seen Nell, it’s better that they remember her as she was.” Her eyes filled with tears once more and the policeman looked away, to give her space. After a time she spoke once more, “I assume there has to be a coroner report? When will I be able to take Nell home?”

“There will have to be an inquest, ma’am. It’s unlikely that the coroner will release your friend before Monday. That should give you plenty of time to go to Nottingham and back.”

Hilda nodded, she looked at her watch, “It’s after twelve now, it will be too late to leave today, I’ll set off tomorrow morning, first thing.” She finished her drink.

The Sergeant stood up, “I’ll take you back to your cottage,” he said gently.

Hilda stood up, as they were leaving the pub Inspector Holland appeared, “Ah, thought you might be here,” he said, smiling sympathetically, “Your friend has been taken to the mortuary, the coroner will need to examine her. I managed to get them to release her valuables to you. Thought it might help.” He gave Miss Annersley a small plastic bag, inside were Nell Wilson’s watch, seal ring and rosary.

Hilda took the items out of the bag, she placed the seal ring on her finger and put the other items in her pocket. “Thank you Inspector,” she said quietly.

“What are you going to do now, Miss Annersley?”

Hilda told him her plans.

“That’s good, you should have some support…”

Hilda looked across, a half smile on her lips, “I’m afraid, Inspector, that there was only ever one person who could give me support. Otherwise I am normally the one offering it. Speaking to the girls will be no different.” She paused for a short time then continued, “But perhaps it’s exactly what I need.” She turned to the Sergeant, “I’m ready.”

The Sergeant nodded and escorted her to his car, to take her back to the cottage.

 

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#955:  Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 2:31 pm

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Thank you, Lesley. You're wringing me out emotionally - this is fabulous. I don't know how you do it, but you surpass yourself with each post.

*goes into a corner to cry for a bit*

 

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#956:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 2:38 pm

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I am totally unable to work today.



Lesley, this is really really painful, but beautiful as well.

 

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#957:  Author: Nicci, Location: UK Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 2:39 pm

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Love the bit about the ring. Thank you Lesley.

 

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#958:  Author: Rachael,  Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 3:19 pm

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My e-mail/internet access crashed yesterday am and has only just come back on - I wish it hadn't ...

 

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#959:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 3:32 pm

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*carries on crying*

Loved Hilda's admission that Nell was always the one to give her support.

 

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#960:  Author: Lula, Location: Midlands, UK Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 3:57 pm

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*sniffles* Oh dear, I knew I shouldn't have taken a break from my tidying to come online.

It's wonderful though, absolutely wonderful.

 

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#961:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 4:26 pm

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Knew you would flip back to Melbourne, suprised you came back to Scotland and didn't wait...are you mellowing?

there is so little I can say without repeating myself, so I'll keep quiet, except to say how wonderfuly you are doing this, thank you, and I hope an early post means there will be more later...!

 

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#962:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 4:53 pm

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*gazes blankly at computer screen*

*still in a state of shock!*

 

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#963:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 5:45 pm

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Feeling a bit like Vikki at the moment. Until the Inspector gave Hilda Nell's belongings, I was just wondering .......

I can't imagine how you feel Lesley. I think you are very brave and talented.

 

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#964:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 5:47 pm

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I am thinking that a figure in a bed, with a bandaged head, eyes taped shut and a ventilator tube in her mouth will be virtually unrecognisable!!!!

 

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#965:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 6:03 pm

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*really torn*

I so want to believe it wasn't Nell. Potential conspiracies lurk behind every door - what did she see, why did she fall, was the Neurosurgeon's choice of words "it must be done" just slightly insensitive or actually sinister, weren't we going to meet the English woman who landed Butcher in jail, how can the rest of the plot go on if Nell is actually dead (would Louise and Andrew still get together? won't the mistresses in Melbourne who insisted they took the holiday feel really, really terrible?). But then......... I think it's for real. It feels real.

 

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#966:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 6:05 pm

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Re Pat's comment - Speaking as someone that has worked in ITU - I would disagree.

 

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#967:  Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 6:47 pm

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*still sad*

Just a thought though - would Hilda now have to identify the body, or is that taken as read because Nell was already in hospital? Don't want to see Hilda suffer any more!

 

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#968:  Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 7:05 pm

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*cries*

I think the whole world is out to break my heart this week. I haven't been reading RCS for a bit because all my wibbling was taken up with my favourtie HP RolePlaying Game where they've killed off some of the best characters and now I come back here and...



It's beautiful though Lesley and whilst I'll never forgive you for killing her (well maybe one day) you wrote it so sensitively and so like Hilda...

*bursts into tears again*

 

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#969:  Author: Nicole, Location: New Zealand Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 7:58 pm

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Wow ... just wow.

Lesley, everytime I think you writing can't get any better, you manage to come up with something sensational. I'm speechless.

 

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#970:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 8:52 pm

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Melbourne

There was silence after Geoff’s words, Rosalind looked up at him, searching his expression, “You want us to…” she began.

Geoff put his arms around her, “Of course I do,” he said gently, “I love you, and I know of no better way for two people to express that love.” He kissed her on the cheek before continuing, “But only when you are ready. I can wait, I’m a soldier, we’re used to waiting.”

Rosalind smiled, “It’s just that it seems a big step, and it’s not one I’ve ever made before.” she began, “I’m not sure if I’m ready yet,”

“Then I’ll book two rooms,” Geoff smiled, “As I said, no pressure. Now where would you like to go?”

Scotland

By the time they got back to the cottage in Pitlochry it was almost 2pm; before leaving her, the Sergeant spoke to Miss Annersley,

“You’ll not set out until morning, now will you? And you will eat something and try to sleep?”

Hilda smiled sadly, “I’ll do the best I can, Sergeant, I’m afraid I don’t feel like eating or sleeping at the moment.”

“No, but you’ve got to be fit to make that journey tomorrow. Your girls will need you.” The Sergeant persisted.

“As I said, I’ll try, thank you Sergeant.”

The man nodded and went to walk away, he paused for a moment then returned, “One other thing, Miss Annersley, sorry about yesterday, trying to say your friend had just wandered off. I should have listened. And I still can‘t get over how we managed not to see her yesterday.”

Hilda shook her head, “No need to apologise, I’m sure, even if your Inspector hadn’t arrived we would have managed, eventually, and, from what the doctors said, finding Nell earlier would have made no difference. Thank you for your help today, Sergeant.”

The afternoon and evening wore on slowly, true to her promise Hilda both prepared and ate something, she was surprised to discover how hungry she was, until realising that she hadn’t eaten since lunchtime the previous day. She also packed her rucksack ready for the trip the next day, and even drove along to the nearby petrol station to fill up. When everything was prepared though, she finally sat in the lounge; she had lit the fire earlier and there was a good blaze throwing out heat, but still she shivered.

After a time she sought her Bible and read a few passages, more for reassurance, and shed a few more tears. Then sat, with the TV on in the background, staring at Nell’s ring. At one point she lifted the telephone receiver, intending to call Australia, she got as far as lifting the receiver to her ear, then stopped, deciding to leave it. In the background the TV started to show an episode of some series about the FBI, she watched it uncomprehendingly for a time, then returned her attention to Nell’s ring, twisting it round and round between her fingers.

For the second night she barely slept, when dawn appeared she was sat, her eyes grey and hard, a determined look on her face. She got ready and left long before the rest of the town were awake.

 

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#971:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 8:57 pm

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This must have been so difficult for you to write Lesley.

The emotion is so raw and gut wrenching.

Brilliant.

Thank you.

Have a huge box of chocolates.

 

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#972:  Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 9:17 pm

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this just gets more emotional. Poor Hilda - she's having to be so strong (and poor Lesley writing this).

 

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#973:  Author: caz, Location: Cambridge Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 9:48 pm

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Lesley, this is excellent writing - must be really hard.

 

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#974:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 10:04 pm

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*desperately hopes Hilda isn't going to have an accident due to tiredness!*

 

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#975:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 10:21 pm

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*cries* Oh why did I ever start reading this?!?
That said... it is brilliantly, chillingly, heart-wrenchingly written. A masterpiece Lesley.
*am also thinking there are a lot of unanswered questions but not sure that they're going to do Nell any good*

 

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#976:  Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly! Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 10:25 pm

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*weeping like a waterspout* Absolutely stunning Lesley, I really don't know how you do it.

 

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#977:  Author: Angel, Location: London, England Posted: Wed Jun 30, 2004 10:28 pm

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I'm *really* worried for Hilda on the journey to Nottingham. She's not an experienced Motorcyclist and she's got quite a distance to go in a tired, emotional and overwrought state.

Lesley - this is amazing

 

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#978:  Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet! Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 8:54 am

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There's nothting really that i can say as others have said it all already but more PLEASE!

 

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#979:  Author: Nicole, Location: New Zealand Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 9:03 am

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I'm running out of words to express how wonderful this is, Lesley. Like everyone else, I'm in complete awe at your talents. This is so emotional, it's just mind blowing.

 

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#980:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 9:19 am

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Lesley, Just keep Hilda safe, OK?

 

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#981:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 12:33 pm

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Having read this twice without loggin in its time i posted here.

Lesley, this is so well written and completely draining. It must be so hard to write. i love the way you are drawing Hilda's character as she reactes to this. Thank you.

Poor Hilda, i wouldn't want to have to make that phone call or tell the girls.

Please keep her safe on her bike.

 

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#982:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 4:49 pm

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I have to go home soon, and I desperately want another episode of this. I still can't believe that it was really Nell who died, I'd half expected her to be at the cottage when Hilda got back.

 

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#983:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 7:17 pm

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More than 24 hours later, early on the Saturday morning, Hilda Annersley stood on the top of the same hill that, three days before, she had visited with Nell Wilson. She had obviously hiked there from some distance away; there was no sign of her bike anywhere on the road far below. She had left most of her belongings, rucksack, sleeping bag and tent, in the alcove just below the main outcrop. She had spent the last hour or so, gazing intently down the steep hillside with a pair of small but very powerful binoculars.

A slight noise to her left, she turned to see, without surprise, that Inspector Holland was walking along the ridge to join her. “Miss Annersley? I must admit to being surprised to see you here,” his voice held a jovial but rather forced quality, “I though you had left for Nottingham yesterday morning, to tell your girls the sad news.”

Hilda Annersley watched the man silently for a short time before replying. “That was exactly what it was intended that you think, Inspector,” she said softly. “However, I decided that I was not satisfied with your explanation of how Nell met her fate. I needed to investigate further.”

The Inspector looked somewhat startled, “I’m afraid I don’t understand…” he began.

“I think that you do, Inspector,” Hilda returned quickly, “However I will be happy to elucidate. It struck me that Nell falling was a somewhat convenient explanation, as I said to her, a stupid, avoidable accident. Regrettable but no one’s fault. But, in the many years that I knew Nell Wilson, in both Austria and Switzerland, she was one of the most experienced walkers and hikers at the School. There is no way she would have fallen. And there was the fact that she was found outside the normal search pattern. I’ve checked Inspector, there’s no way someone falling from here could end up outside the normal search pattern, unless it wasn’t a fall.”

“Miss Annersley I think your grief is affecting your mental processes, you are obviously not thinking clearly.”

“Perhaps not Inspector,” Hilda agreed, “But I do have some inkling as to exactly what scene Nell saw. You remember she had called for me to come and see something?” She turned to look back down the slope, “I think I know what it was,” she said, “She saw members of that mine security staff, and she saw that they were all carrying sub-machine guns.”

Hilda turned to look at the Inspector, “Now what could be so important that they would need so much security?”

The Inspector made a signal and two men dressed in combat fatigues appeared, they were both heavily armed, “Well Miss Annersley, I think we’ve heard enough. You will come with me.”

The inspector lead the way back down the ridge, one of the two guards stepped up beside Hilda, motioning that she follow, she saw the other guard disappear down to retrieve her belongings from the alcove below. After walking for perhaps twenty yards, the slope down toward the mine became far less steep and the Inspector started down, Hilda was ordered to follow. Some distance down, and hidden from view from above by an overhanging rock, there was what appeared to be a cave, at the back there was a flight of steps, cut into the rock.

After walking down for what felt like hours, the Inspector and his party reached the bottom, the tunnel opened out into a long series of rooms and corridors. They walked along to an office and went in. The Inspector sat in the only chair, behind a desk, he looked across at the woman in front of him.

“As you probably are aware, this is all within the mine,” he said shortly, “Very few people get to see this.” He sat staring at the woman in front of him for some time, “You have no idea what you are involved with, Miss Annersley.”

“I know that the accident to my friend was no accident, Inspector, that she had seen something, something that she should not have seen and I know that you are responsible.”

He sat back and sighed, “You should have travelled down to Nottingham when you had the chance. Now it seems I must deal with you too.” He signalled to one of the guards, “Put her in cell two, she’ll not be going anywhere.”

The guard stepped forward and grabbed Hilda’s arm, dragging her out of the office; he forced her along any number of corridors. He was a big, strong man, obviously used to handling prisoners. Even if Hilda had felt that she could tackle him, the fact that he wore an SMG slung across his shoulder would have persuaded her not to even try. Eventually he dragged her over to stand in front of a locked door,

“Don’t move!” he ordered.

A short time waiting while he opened the door then Hilda was pushed unceremoniously into the room and the door locked behind her. She looked around, the room was almost in darkness, there was no window and the lights were off. She tried switching on the light but it wasn’t working. As her eyes adjusted to the dark she could make out that the room had two beds in it, one of them appeared to be occupied. She walked over to the bed,

“Hello? Are you awake?” she asked softly, placing her hand on the person’s shoulder, as she did she was suddenly aware that there was no person in the bed, instead it was a dummy made up of blankets and towels.

Before she had a chance to react, a figure had swept out from a small alcove and pushed her forwards onto the bed. She felt her arm twisted up behind her back and a hand round her neck. Unable resist, the person was very strong, she was pulled upright and marched over to face the wall. A hand grabbed the back of her hair and pushed her head onto the stonework.

“Now, every time you say or do something that I don’t like,” a hoarse voice hissed, “this is going to happen.”

Hilda felt her head pulled back then slammed into the wall, she momentarily saw stars and felt a small trickle of blood start to flow from her forehead. She tried moving, struggling, and her arm was wrenched further up her back, she felt her shoulder blade grind and groaned.

“Enough noise!” the voice ordered, “Now I want information, tell me what’s happening, quickly!”

 

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#984:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 7:25 pm

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OMG! I logged in right at the desperate moment. Lesley! What are you up to now?

*no one knows any of this and Hilda is on her own"

*wibbles, eebles and generally behaves like a spineless jellyfish*

*Goes of to get dinner and a glass of something strong*

*Dare not log in again for a considerable time*

ps * cancel last statement - will not be able to resist checking*

 

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#985:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 7:27 pm

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Eeek!!!
I didn't see that coming!!!!!

*dares to wonder who the mysterious (and curious) stranger is!*

 

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#986:  Author: Lula, Location: Midlands, UK Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 7:34 pm

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Eek! Poor Hilda, please let her be okay!

 

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#987:  Author: Nicole, Location: New Zealand Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 7:43 pm

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*wibbles*

I didn't see this coming, either.

*clinging to the edge of the cliff by her fingernails, hoping there are some nice trampolines at the bottom*

 

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#988:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 7:51 pm

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Ahh Thank God the Hilda I know and love is back......

Go Hilda !!!

Was starting to worry that everything had affected her intelligence and she wouldnt even ask or try to answer any of the Q's still left...

 

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#989:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 7:54 pm

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this story is more twisty turny than a rollercoaster - Lesley its wonderful, you're taking us through a whole spectrum of emotions.
Please let Hilda be ok

 

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#990:  Author: Ella, Location: Staffordshire Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 8:31 pm

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Oh no! Don't put Hilda through this without Nell's support!
(The very soggy hanky is now being chewed with fear)
That really crept up without warning.
Emotional and exciting stuff, Lesley! Thanks

 

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#991:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 8:56 pm

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Please let that person be Nell, who was never really dead - she's been cloned, maybe?! - and she just hasn't realised who Hilda is!!!!

Please!!!!!!!

Maybe not... *doubtful*

Loving the twists and turns of this drabble Lesley - knew Hilda would realise that something was up!

 

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#992:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 9:15 pm

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Hilda tried to look round at her attacker but the grip on her hair prevented that, she swallowed, “You know,” she said softly, “After the last time that you hit me, you promised it wouldn’t happen again,” she paused before adding, “Nell.”

There was a stunned silence and Hilda felt the hand holding her hair release its grip, she twisted her head to look behind her, Nell Wilson stood there.

“H-H-Hilda? Is that really you?”

Hilda made to turn around and stopped as her arm and shoulder blade were ground together, “Do you think you could let go of my arm, Nell?” she asked gently.

Nell Wilson immediately released her grip on her friend’s arm, Hilda slowly straightened the limb, grimacing slightly. She turned to face the other woman. Lifting her right hand she gently brushed down the side of Nell’s face.

“The last time I saw you, Nell,” Hilda was smiling slightly, her eyes full of tears, “They told me you were dead. I gave my permission to switch off your ventilator. They said you had no brain activity.”

Nell reached up to clasp Hilda’s hand, “Some people say that about me anyway, Hilda!” she smiled. She swallowed and her gaze dropped to the ground, “I couldn’t stop them, Hilda,” she said quietly, “When they first captured me, their guards were too strong, I couldn’t move or call out. Then, early the next morning,” she drew in a shuddering breath and Hilda immediately pulled her close, hugging her. Nell continued, her head on Hilda’s shoulder, “They gave me some drug, an injection, I don’t know what it was, but it made me very sleepy. Next thing I knew it was eight or ten hours later and I was coming round on that bed.”

Hilda said nothing, just held her friend close, after a few minutes Nell continued, “They told me what they had done,” she said, “They said that they’d given me drugs to make me unconscious and muscle relaxants so a ventilator could be used. I think that’s why I’ve got a sore throat. I can’t remember any of it, I’m so sorry Hilda, I couldn’t stop them.”

“It doesn’t matter, Nell,” Hilda’s voice soothed, although she was crying silent tears, “Nothing matters except that you are alive!” She guided them both onto the bed and sat there with her arm around Nell, waiting for her friend to recover. After a few minutes Nell sat up and wiped her eyes. She looked across at Hilda,

“You thought I was dead?” she asked softly.

Hilda nodded, “Yes, it was all very convincing.” her eyes darkened as she remembered the scenes. “Whatever is going on here, it has far-reaching consequences, they had doctors, nurses, specialists, all primed to give me the same story. You know I can normally tell if people are lying?”

Nell nodded.

“Well not this time, whatever the reason, it was enough that these people were most sincere. There were only two things that stopped it being a flawless performance.”

“Two things?”

Hilda smiled, “Firstly, they were totally unprepared for when I asked for a Catholic priest, to administer Last Rites for you. They brought someone in who was obviously not a priest. Oh he looked and sounded the part, and he must have had an extremely good memory, he knew the Last Rites almost perfectly, but he made some fundamental errors. It wasn‘t until later, when I analysed it, that I realised that I had been word perfect, he had not.”

“Probably didn’t expect that you would know the rituals,” Nell smiled, “Everyone forgets that you taught Religious Education as well as English!”

“Exactly! Well the other thing was this,” Hilda pulled a ring off of her finger and proffered it to Nell, “Your seal ring, Nell,” she said, “With a very interesting engraving inside it,”

Nell took the ring and looked at the engraving, it was a single name, Elinor.

“Now there were only two reasons for you to have that engraved on your ring, Nell,” Hilda smiled. “The first reason, that you were secretly one of her people, I dismissed immediately, which left the second, that you’d put it there as a message to me, a warning that something was wrong.”

Nell placed the ring on her finger, “It was the only thing I could think of, Hilda,” she said, “After they’d given me that drug it took a while to work. The guard took great pleasure in telling me what was going to happen. I’d got a few bits of granite in my pocket still; granite is more than hard enough to scratch gold. I knew that if I’d etched a word like deception or beware, they might see it and not pass on the ring. By putting Elinor’s name I hoped you’d see it as a warning.”

“I did, and I sat there for hours trying to work out why. It seemed so unbelievable; after all, I had just seen you die, I’d watched when they’d switched off the ventilator and the machine registering your heartbeat showed that it had stopped immediately. Then it suddenly struck me, why did your heart stop so quickly? You can hold your breath for more than a minute, I’ve read about some people that can hold their breath for two or three minutes, why did your heart stop so quickly?”

“Because it wasn’t my heart beat?” Nell smiled, “Someone must have had the machine hooked up to themselves and then disconnected it.”

“Yes, and when I realised that, I also realised that I had been ushered out of the room rather quickly. So that they could connect you back up to the ventilator. They obviously didn’t want to actually kill you, just make me think you were dead.”

“They may not want to kill us, Hilda, but the men holding those guns don’t look as though they’ll be gentle if we get in their way!”

“Agreed, but it still took me a long time to reach the conclusion that almost everyone in that hospital room was involved in a scheme to make me think you were dead.” Hilda laughed slightly, “I was watching some programme on TV, or at least it was on, there was a scene in a tiny office, and a poster on the wall, it said “Trust no one,” when I saw that it suddenly all fell into place.”


Congratulations to Pat, RTW and Kathye - they all PM'd me saying they didn't believe I'd killed Nell - for some reason they didn't trust me.

Think the rest of the board may follow their example now!

 

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#993:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 9:23 pm

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Lesley wrote:

Think the rest of the board may follow their example now! [/color]

Lesley! You are tortuous, convoluted, byzantine, convoluted and downright cruel






















and brilliant!

 

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#994:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 9:27 pm

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Congratulations Lesley.

Despite Pat and Rachel explaining in detail what could have happened to nell, including the supressent drugs, I was convinced that you had really 'been and gone and done it'. I thought that since everyone was so sure you wouldn't let Nell die that you would suprise them and do it this time, especially as those in Melbourne seemed to have been set up to take over the lead roles.

This has been brilliantly written and excecuted. Well done.


Come on then Pat and Rachel, say I told you so and get it over with before Saturday!

 

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#995:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 9:28 pm

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*heaves sigh of relief!*
Thank you Lesley! That was what I was kind of hoping for after the last post!

 

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#996:  Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 9:29 pm

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Yay yay yay yay yay yay yay yay yay! Nell's alive!

*huge grin on face* - did you have to put us through that anguish though Lesley?!

I so wanted to believe that Nell wasn't dead - had wild theories abounding that matey was still alive and had had more plastic surgery to make her look like Nell! I liked your explanation much better though lesley!

 

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#997:  Author: catherine, Location: York Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 9:42 pm

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I didn't believe either, Lesley! I'll admit as time went on I began to get a bit worried but Pat and Nicci will vouch that I was pretty sure you'd not killed her off!

I didn't PM you as I figured you were getting enough from RTW and Pat (I didn't know about Kathye) and also that you'd post what you wanted when you wanted regardless of what anybody else said or did!!


Congratulations though, it's brilliantly written and so moving. I don't know how you manage to do it time and again, but you do. You are an incredibly talented writer.

 

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#998:  Author: Angel, Location: London, England Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 9:50 pm

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wow.

just wow

I should have listened to myself.

 

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#999:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 10:14 pm

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*dances in mad circle around room*

Woohoo, Nell's still alive, Nell's still alive, Nell's still alive! Well, I guessed that the person was Nell, anyway!

*continues dancing around room*

Thank you Lesley!

*collapses exhausted into chair*

 

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#1000:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 10:22 pm

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I told Rachael this afternoon when she asked if I was expecting a Lazarus type miracle that I was expecting a medical cover-up!!!
I thought it very interesting that lesley admitted to having worked in ITU!!!
Then I remembered how we'd all thought she';s killed hilda.

Brilliantly done Lesley. Thank you. I've enjoyed watching the postings almost as much as you must have done.

 

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#1001:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 10:27 pm

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Thanks lesley

Though you could have let on when I PM'd you !!

Sigh, can relax now........

Well done on another brilliant and masterful plot line and I hope you get over all those exhausting scenes soon, sending copious hugs and a bottle of whatever you fancy

You probably need a stiff one yourself now !

 

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#1002:  Author: Nicole-As-Guest,  Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 10:30 pm

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Well, call me gullible!!

I can't *believe* I fell for that one after going through the night that stopped the board when you "killed* Hilda.

Lesley you are a genius! Completely evil, but an absolute genius!!

 

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#1003:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 10:31 pm

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Lesley I love you... and hate you. You are a genius!

 

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#1004:  Author: Cathy, Location: Australia Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 10:43 pm

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Dear Lesley

thank you for not killing Nell after all. It was such a brilliant twist that I've quite forgiven you!!!

I had a sick day yesterday and we still have no computer working at home, so I lay in bed thinking "I wonder how Hilda is coping".

 

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#1005:  Author: Rachel, Location: Plotting in my lair Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 10:50 pm

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Justice and Vindication.

I am *sooooooooooooooo* good

And the bit that really swung it for me was Lesley not being mortally offended by my calling her a lying toad - twice - via PM. And of course the fact that she was never able to lie directly to me and tell me she really had been and gone and done it.

I shall save the rest of my gloating for Saturday Carolyn - I want to take my time and rub yournose in it thoroughly!

 

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#1006:  Author: Rachael,  Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 11:11 pm

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LOL!!!

Well done, Lesley!!

 

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#1007:  Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2004 11:45 pm

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Rachel wrote:

I shall save the rest of my gloating for Saturday Carolyn - I want to take my time and rub yournose in it thoroughly!

oh dear!

 

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#1008:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 12:27 am

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Wow - that was amazing Lesley

BUT am now seriously concerned about the fact that both of them are locked up with no means of escape (well that I can see - no doubt you know better Lesley )


Begining to be very slightly almost glad in a minute way that I won't be there when the fur flies on Saturday - but I'd love to hear the *discussions* - please can we have a full transcrtipt RtW & Carolyn?

 

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#1009:  Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 1:18 am

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Well I didn't want to believe it but I have to say you did get me. Not that Nell and Hilda are in a particularly good situation now...

 

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#1010:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 3:25 am

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*faith in Lesley restored*

And thank you, Pat, for your logic last night. It calmed me down enough to remember that the RL priest didn't leave (and wouldn't have left) until after the unplugging and prayers for the dead, and put a damper on the flashbacks.

 

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#1011:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 8:37 am

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Thank goodness for that! Well, now that Hilda and Nell are back together again, we can expect them to escape in short order.

Failing that, there are the girls from Cambridge who will swoop down like avenging angels, not to mention the four in Australia, plus Major Stevens.

So, we really don't need to worry.

 

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#1012:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 9:58 am

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Hooray! Now I see why you were all telling me to come and read this last night!

I also never quite lost hope that Nell was alive and Pat was very good at convining me to remain hopeful! However i kept wobbling Lesley cos you were so convincing!

Wonderful, thank you!

 

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#1013:  Author: Cumbrian Rachel, Location: near High Wycombe Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 10:26 am

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Hurray!!! Nell's not dead! Yay!


Now, there's just the small matter of Nell and Hilda being stuck in a cell to be dealt with... Doesn't seem nearly as bad somehow.

 

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#1014:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 10:32 am

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ARGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Lesley do you know how miserable and depressed and unable to work or socialise I have been this week?!?!?!?!?!?!?!!?

I am sending you the bill from my counselling service!!!!!!!!

























*unbelievably relieved that Nell is still alive*

 

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#1015:  Author: Lula, Location: Midlands, UK Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 10:34 am

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Woooow. I feel as though I've just let out a breath I've been holding for days... (which maybe wasn't a wise idea )

Anyway... brilliant.

 

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#1016:  Author: Robin, Location: London, England Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 10:43 am

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ha! I knew it!
Very cleverly done though, well done!

now how are they going to get out of their cave?

 

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#1017:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 11:40 am

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For any who feel I may have lied/not told the truth in previous posts, if you read them with the benefit of hindsight you will see that all the clues are there!

There was the sound, outside, of the door being unlocked; both women immediately did their best to restore their faces to some semblance of normality before the door opened. Outside stood Inspector Holland and a guard, Holland flicked the light switch, when the light failed to work he sighed and looked across at Nell Wilson,

“The bulb, Miss Wilson?”

Nell reached beneath the pillow on the bed and retrieved the bulb, she threw it across, a short time later the electric light illuminated the cell.

“Both of you, against the wall, please,” Holland continued, “I don’t want any more unpleasantness.”

The two women did as ordered, Miss Annersley turned to her friend, “Unpleasantness?” she asked.

Miss Wilson shrugged, “The woman that gave me the original injection, a nurse I think, when she was checking up on me that evening I attacked her. Broke her arm.”

“Oh,” Miss Annersley nodded, she paused for a time before adding, “Good!”

Holland and a guard entered the room and stood in the doorway, “Well Miss Annersley, having reunited you with your friend, I believe you owe me some thanks.”

Hilda placed a hand on Nell’s shoulder, “Considering that you allowed and encouraged me to think Nell was dead, Mr Holland, thanks are the very last thing that I owe you.” Her eyes promised retribution at the very least.

The Inspector swallowed slightly before rallying, “Well I’m afraid, ladies, that the next few days of your holiday will be spent here. Our business here will be complete by Monday or Tuesday, but until then I’m afraid that you will have a somewhat boring time, there’s not a great deal to do in here.” He went to leave the room, then turned back to add something, “You know, you should thank me, certain of my colleagues wanted to kill you both. I vetoed the suggestion, arranged the deception instead. It should have worked.” He turned once more, Nell Wilson’s voice stopped him.

“Why the charade? Why didn’t you just capture Hilda at the same time as me? It must have been difficult to organise, and it was unnecessarily cruel.”

Holland smiled, “By the time I realised there was a problem your friend had already contacted the Police and Mountain Rescue, I couldn’t cover up all of that. Not in the time available. Now, however, everyone thinks you travelled down to Nottingham, by the time they realise that you didn’t, we’ll be finished here. In a way, Miss Annersley, you did us a favour, deciding to investigate on your own, means there are no loose ends. I’ll bid you good day ladies.” He smiled again, sardonically, and left with the guard. The door was locked behind them.

Nell Wilson turned to her friend, “I hope that arm on my shoulder, stopping me from reacting, wasn’t an indication that you’d turned soft again, Hilda!” she said quickly, “I refuse to feel any gratitude toward that slug!”

Hilda shook her head, “No, Nell, it was because Holland had a gorilla with a sub-machine gun standing next to him!”

“Oh, that’s all right then! So if we manage to get him alone?”

“Then you’ll have to be quick, Nell,” Hilda looked across at her partner determinedly, “Because I intend to rearrange his features with my boot!”

“Ah,” Nell smiled, “Glad to see my ideas on correct behaviour are finally filtering through!”

 

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#1018:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 11:45 am

---

Oh yes the clues are all there we just weren't all sharp enough to spot them!

Glad to see Hilda and Nell back together and looking for ways to get out of there - I have no doubt that they will either!

 

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#1019:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 11:47 am

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Nice! thank you Lesley. I was hoping that you were here to post!

 

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#1020:  Author: Nicole, Location: New Zealand Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 11:53 am

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Awesome

Fantastic to see Nell and Hilda back together.

Looking forward to seeing how they get out now.

 

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#1021:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 11:56 am

---

Thanks Lesley its nice seeing all the peices of the jigsaw fit together again, and even nicer when u have gotten half of it right !

 

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#1022:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 12:00 pm

---

Thanks Lesley. That was a lovley bit, I love the way Hilda and nell react to each other, the simple 'good' when nell mentions breaking the arm for instance, or the

Quote:

Then you’ll have to be quick, Nell,” Hilda looked across at her partner determinedly, “Because I intend to rearrange his features with my boot!” “Ah,” Nell smiled, “Glad to see my ideas on correct behaviour are finally filtering through!”

Brilliant.

 

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#1023:  Author: Lula, Location: Midlands, UK Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 12:16 pm

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Lovely! The way they react to one another is great.

 

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#1024:  Author: Rachael,  Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 12:16 pm

---

LOL, Carolyn - those were the exactt wo posts I was about to point to - absolute classics!!

So pleased that Lesley's able to post during he day - what a Friday bonus!

Not that I want this to end - but I am soooo looking forward to the Inspector getting his comeuppance ...

 

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#1025:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 12:25 pm

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Me too!!! And of course we all know he will, don't we?

 

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#1026:  Author: Rachael,  Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 12:44 pm

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Yes - I certainly wouldn't want to be on the receiving end of those two all fired up and on my case!!

One would be bad enough but both of them together ....
Especially as there's no sign of either of them being the calming voice of reason on this occasion

 

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#1027:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 12:53 pm

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Ditto Rachael! But he completely and utterly deserves it!!!!

EVIL man

 

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#1028:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 1:14 pm

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Love the idea of rearranging his features wih a boot! He deserves it, the scumbag.

BTW: if Hilda twigged on to his deception, it shows that he's not very good at his job, whatever that may be.

 

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#1029:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 1:21 pm

---

Hmm, I'm not sure that the fact that Hilda Annersley saw through it means it wasn't a good enough deception by ordinary standards - she is perfect after all!

 

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#1030:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 1:31 pm

---

She only saw through it because of seeing the inscription on Nell's ring that evening - that forced her to look again at the scene and realise that the priest's behaviour was wrong. Without that, she'd not have realised.

 

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#1031:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 1:40 pm

---

Please, Lesley, don't ruin our little illusions!

 

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#1032:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 4:26 pm

---

Melbourne

The last working day of the week had gone well; by Friday lunchtime the four schoolmistresses gathered in Hilda’s Study with a sense of triumph.

“I can’t believe how much work there has been these last two weeks,” Ruth said, as she passed round coffee to everyone, “Even with the four of us it’s been a struggle!”

Rosalind sipped her mug of coffee and reached for the biscuit tin, “Yes, quite worrying when you think that Hilda and Nell were planning on tackling all of this themselves! I can’t see that they would have had any time to relax.” She passed the tin across to Nancy,

Nancy reached in and grabbed a couple of digestives, “We seem to have made rather a dent in Hilda’s biscuits,” she remarked,

Kathie shook her head, “No, we finished Hilda’s biscuits last week, these are Nell’s, I nicked them from her Study.”

“Someone remind me to replace them before the sixteenth,” Ruth said absently, “Not that I think they’ll mind,” she continued, returning to topic, “they’ll have had such a lovely relaxing time, free from any worries or concerns, they won’t begrudge us a few biscuits!”

The four were planning to join the diving instructors for their dive the following morning, that afternoon they busied themselves back at Nancy and Kathie’s cottage. They had invited both the Maynards and Russells over for the evening as well as Jeanne de Lachenais, Geoff Stevens and the Coates. The plan was to host a Murder Mystery dinner party and they were all busy arranging their costumes as well as cooking food. They had already sent out the information to the others about the type of costume they would need - it was set during the Second World War - and the characters everyone would play. So they had a very leisurely afternoon preparing.

The evening went extremely well, of course those that had been a part of the Chalet School during the War had a distinct advantage, with the Maynards, Russells and Jeanne all able rely on their own memories of the time. For the others though, they modelled their behaviour on a number of old black and white films they had discovered, including ‘The Cruel Sea,’ ‘In Which We Serve,’ and ‘Brief Encounter.’

Madge’s lamentations of dismay at being the murder victim were matched only when Nancy succeeded in identifying Joey as the murderer!

“Trouble is, Joey,” Madge said, when they had all stopped laughing at Joey’s language on being unmasked (she had entered the twenty first century with relish!), “I can remember times, when still Headmistress at the School, when I’m certain you were actually thinking it!”

“Never, Madge!” Joey said emphatically, “You wouldn’t have known when I was thinking it! Hilda and Nell are the only ones that could read me! And I always made sure I was far away from both of them whenever I planned something!”

At this the company all laughed, before Kathie switched on the Hi-Fi, “We managed to download a number of authentic early 1940’s tunes,” she said, “You probably know some of them, Nancy and I have just got to finish dinner, enjoy!”

The pair disappeared out into the kitchen, while their friends cleared some space in the lounge, as some of Glenn Miller’s tunes rang out, first Jack then Jem rose and asked their respective spouses to dance. Soon everyone was dancing, Ruth and Jeanne were not left out as their friends included them. Meanwhile Nancy and Kathie put the finishing touches on the meal they had prepared. They called everyone to eat within the hour.

The following morning, early, a white minibus appeared at the School gates, it was escorted to the Staff House where it picked up Ruth and Rosalind before going on to their cottage to pick up Nancy and Kathie. Inside the van were Col, Mark and the other instructors, ready to start their weekend of diving.

 

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#1033:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 4:38 pm

---

And? Are you going to leave it there?

 

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#1034:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 4:39 pm

---

I feel so lucky two RCS posts while at work and before the weekend - can see I'll be logging on from home though!

Wonderful, can't wait until Nancy, Kathie, Ros and Ruth hear what's really been happening to Nell and Hilda! Won't they get a shock! And probably feel responsible for sending them away!

 

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#1035:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 4:57 pm

---

Yes, the clues were all there, Lesley but you were very convincing!

Nice to see the 'A' Team working together again!

*feeling slightly sorry for the fake inspector - he doesn't know what he is up again*

*Wondering what nefarious deeds he's involved in?*

 

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#1036:  Author: Nicci, Location: UK Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 5:30 pm

---

Wohooo. BIG relief. BIG HUGE relief at Nell not being dead. And yes, I can certainly vouch for the fact that Catherine was convinced she was alive! I have many, many msn conversations to prove it! I wasn't utterly convinced myself (how easy to say after the drama!) but I couldn't see how you were going to 'undeadness' Nell. I'm impressed!

Hee hee, loved the X files reference there Lesley - particularly as that's what I've been watching all afternoon...whilst doing my work of course...

Good to see Nell and Hilda back together - they just don't work without each other - and am trying very hard to be positive depsite the fact that they're trapped in a guarded underground cell with no apparent means of escape!

Nice touch with the ring!

 

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#1037:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 8:04 pm

---

Scotland

On hearing Nell’s last remark Hilda smiled, then stopped as a large droplet of blood slid down her face and dropped to the floor.

“You’re bleeding, Hilda.”

Yes Nell, I think I’d worked that out,” Hilda replied drily.

“Here, sit down, I’ll get something to clean it up,” Nell led her friend to the bed and disappeared to the alcove, to return with some wet and dry towels. She began cleaning the small wound on Hilda’s forehead.

“Really sorry about this, Hilda,” Nell said quietly, “I didn’t know it was you, could barely see anything.”

Hilda winced slightly at Nell’s ministrations, “I believe you said that the last time you hit me, Nell,” she said quickly, with a twinkle of amusement.

“Yes, well, I’m sorry. It won’t happen again.”

“You said that as well!”

Nell sighed, “It’s not going to matter how often I apologise, is it?”

“No.”

“You’re going to hold this against me, aren’t you?”

“Yes!”

“Oh good grief!”

Hilda waited while Nell finished cleaning and drying the wound; before she could move away she then reached up to hold Nell’s hand, “It doesn’t matter, Nell,” she said softly, “I don’t mind.” She swallowed slightly before continuing, “I watched you die, Nell, I though I’d lost you. And I didn’t want to continue on my own. You are a very special person Nell Wilson, you make my live worth living.”

“Hilda, you’re embarrassing me!” Nell said softly.

“Good, I need some sort of recompense for how your supposed death made me feel.” Hilda smiled slightly.

Nell squatted in front of her friend, “Well it works both ways, you know,” she said, “I don’t know if I could cope without you, I certainly felt like I was just marking time, when you were trapped in the fictional world.”

“Well I never realised just how empty life could be, until I thought I had to live it without you. Don’t ever do that to me again!”

Nell Wilson smiled down at her friend, “I didn’t actually have a choice, you know! Anyway, after spending the next three or four days in this cell, you may change your mind about wanting to live with me!”

Hilda Annersley’s smile grew wider and she pulled her friend down onto the bed beside her. “Now Nell, you surely don’t think I came back to that hill without some sort of plan, do you?”

 

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#1038:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 8:07 pm

---

Quote:

“Now Nell, you surely don’t think I came back to that hill without some sort of plan, do you?”

Well of course she didn't, she's Hilda Annersley after all!!

Bet lesley isn't about to tell us though!

 

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#1039:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 8:32 pm

---

Oh How that stupid Inspector will rue the day he ever trifled with Hilda Annersley

I cant wait

 

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#1040:  Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 9:08 pm

---

awww, Lesley that was such a lovely exchange between the two of them. Looking forward to revenge on the nasty people now though!

 

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#1041:  Author: Lula, Location: Midlands, UK Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 9:44 pm

---

Awwws, that's lovely...

 

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#1042:  Author: Ella, Location: Staffordshire Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 10:24 pm

---

Hooray! (Still dancing on the ceiling because Nell's alive!)
I admit I was totally taken in - spent several days sitting at work thinking "Is there any way Lesley can not have killed Nell?" and couldn't come up with any ideas.
Very cleverly done!
Some really touching scenes - and I'm looking forward to seeing Hilda and Nell's captors get their just desserts!
(and possibly ought to actually do some work next week, rather than staring into space for much of the time!)

 

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#1043:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 10:40 pm

---

Loving Hilda's and Nell's little talk

Is anyone else worried about the mistresses going diving again?

 

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#1044:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 10:43 pm

---

Yep, Gem! I think Lesley may be setting us up for a series of cliffs!

*Checks all the drabble harnesses*

*Restocks the fridges*

*tenses up ready for a serious tumble over a cliff*

 

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#1045:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 11:09 pm

---

really pleased u didn't kill Nell off Lesley... I should have known better than to think it lol
I have a feeling, however, that escaping will be no easy matter for H &N

 

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#1046:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 11:11 pm

---

Knowing Lesley i'm sure it won't be easy forthem to escape. But they will of course, and triumph over all of their adveraries.

 

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#1047:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 11:21 pm

---

Pat wrote:

Knowing Lesley i'm sure it won't be easy forthem to escape. But they will of course, and triumph over all of their adveraries.

Now Pat, you keep giving away my secrets and I'll just have to change them!

You'll never know how close I got to changing Nell's fate because of all the messages etc I got!

 

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#1048:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 11:24 pm

---

How can I be giving away your secrets when I am using my experience of the other RCS drabbles? Don't use that as an excuse!!!!

 

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#1049:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2004 11:26 pm

---

So I'm too predictable then? Have to do something about that!

 

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#1050:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Sat Jul 03, 2004 12:10 am

---

Pat, hush!!!!! I don't know about you, but I would much prefer that all characters - excluding the evil inspector guy - are left safe and sound at the end of the drabble. *whispers* Don't give her ideas

*giggles*

 

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#1051:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Sat Jul 03, 2004 12:17 am

---

*gags Auntie Pat before she gives Lesley any ideas!!!*
Waiting eagerly for the next bit Lesley!!!

 

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#1052:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Sat Jul 03, 2004 12:26 am

---

I think we're too late Vikki

 

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#1053:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham Posted: Sat Jul 03, 2004 1:55 am

---

Lesley wrote:

You'll never know how close I got to changing Nell's fate because of all the messages etc I got!

Now you see that was what I was worried about.....

Thats why I took so long to PM you, cause I thought if I was Lesley and everyone kept saying I don't believe you have done it, I'd do it just to make a point !! Annoying Child that I am

So Pat....shhhhhhh

Do you want her to really start killing people off ??

LESLEY YOU ARE NOT PREDICTABLE

IGNORE PAT

REPEAT AFTER ME

"I AM NOT PREDICTABLE"

okay we might be safe now

 

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#1054:  Author: Chloë, Location: London: when away from home planet! Posted: Sat Jul 03, 2004 7:46 am

---

Lesley please show us all how shiny you are and give us lots of lovely long posts today

*already beginning to feel withdrawl symptoms for lack of RCS next month*

 

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#1055:  Author: Angel, Location: London, England Posted: Sat Jul 03, 2004 10:56 am

---

*is being careful what she says*

You see, I like it when writers kill characters that are either important or that they care about. The results are [grins] interesting... (c.f. the Kitty drabble) I think characters like that should be killed more often - the death in HP V was more shocking because I knew the author loved the character and I wasn't expecting it.

 

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#1056:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Sat Jul 03, 2004 12:53 pm

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Lesley, I'm eagerly awaiting the scene where Hilda gives the fake Inspector a good kicking!

 

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#1057:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster Posted: Sat Jul 03, 2004 4:32 pm

---

*cackles evilly* Sorry, just relishing the thought of how that Inspector is going to feel when Hilda and Nell are through with him.

**Disclaimer** Not that I have the slightest clue what Lesley is planning, but knowing H and N, it's gotta be good!

 

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#1058:  Author: Dot, Location: Ireland Posted: Sat Jul 03, 2004 5:24 pm

---

Lesley wrote:

“Someone remind me to replace them before the sixteenth,” Ruth said absently, “Not that I think they’ll mind,” she continued, returning to topic, “they’ll have had such a lovely relaxing time, free from any worries or concerns, they won’t begrudge us a few biscuits!”

Love that!! I was fooled too!

 

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#1059:  Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly! Posted: Sat Jul 03, 2004 6:40 pm

---

*keels over with relief that Lesley DIDN'T kill Nell* This is the last time I ever go 4 days without my RCS fix!!!!!!!!!

 

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#1060:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Sat Jul 03, 2004 6:51 pm

---

Melbourne

The journey to the diving site took almost three hours, on the way the four friends were told of the history of the wreck they were going to investigate.

“It’s a luxury yacht,” Col began, “Went down in stormy weather in 1943, less than 100 yards from the shore.”

“It’s in thirty feet of water,” Mark continued, “and was only discovered, by accident, earlier this year, by a mate of mine.”

“Why did it take so long to find it?” This from Ruth.

“Apparently one of only two survivors, the captain, had given the wrong co-ordinates, had the boat going down some three miles further along the coast, much closer to the continental slope.” Mark replied, “It was thought that perhaps the wreck had been swept out to the deep water by strong currents or a turbidity flow.”

“Turbidity flow?” Nancy asked,

Kathie put her hand on her partner’s arm, “I’ll explain, Nance,” she said, grinning, “Unless you’d rather?” she turned to Rosalind, Geography Department Head. Rosalind shook her head.

“A turbidity flow, or current in the sea happens when a lot of sediment is deposited on the continental slope, after some time it becomes unstable, water is allowed to seep between the grains and it takes on a far greater density.” Kathie smiled at her partner before continuing, “It can then begin to flow down the slope at speeds of 50km per hour, sometimes more. It’s the way sediments are carried into the abyssal depths, and while flowing, can cut deeply into the underlying rock face.”

Col looked at the other instructors, “Now I knew there was a reason why we’d asked them along!” he began, “Do you know how much it would cost us, if we enrolled at their posh school to hear all of this?”

“Considering it’s an all-girls school, apart from the Kindergarten, “Rosalind remarked acerbically, “It would cost you more than just money to enrol!”

Everyone laughed before listening again to Mark, “Well anyway, now it’s been found we can explore it. Any salvage from the wreck is classed as treasure trove and considered to be property of whoever found it,”

“Along with a hefty tax cut to the Australian Government!” Danny put in quickly.

“Well of course, Dan,” Col grinned, “The Government needs all the help it can get!”

“Is it likely that there will be much to find?” Ruth asked, “After all if it was just a yacht?”

“Oh we’re not talking about the tiny little two or four berth yachts you see in the harbour,” Mark replied quickly, “This was a luxury vessel, not quite on the scale of the Queen’s yacht Britannia- which I always felt looked like an ocean liner! - But still big enough that it could host 30 guests as well as crew and entertainment people. It was the personal yacht for a very successful business man, living in Melbourne at the time, he was on the yacht when it went down.”

“He didn’t survive, neither did anyone else except the Captain and one young girl, granddaughter of the businessman. She inherited the entire business, when only age fourteen.”

“If this was in 1943 is she still alive?” Nancy asked, “Because if so, surely she would be the owner of anything found on the yacht?”

“She is still alive, though I think much of the business is now run by her son, but no, anything salvaged from a wreck comes under salvage laws, the person finding it is entitled to salvage rights.”

Last edited by Lesley on Tue Jul 27, 2004 10:31 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

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#1061:  Author: Angel, Location: London, England Posted: Sat Jul 03, 2004 6:58 pm

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*brain whirring very fast*

thank you, lesley

 

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#1062:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Sat Jul 03, 2004 7:48 pm

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Thank you Lesley. May I point out that I was only predicting the happy end result? Anything before that is totally unpredictable, as only Lesley can fathom out the way her mind will go!!!
I am really looking forward to finding out who that yacht belonged to and the name of the Grand-daughter!!!

 

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#1063:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Sat Jul 03, 2004 7:55 pm

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I am wondering if there is a connection between the girl and the CS?

Good stuff Lesley...are you going to have both sets of characters in peril at the same time???

 

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#1064:  Author: Nicci, Location: UK Posted: Sat Jul 03, 2004 10:41 pm

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Carolyn P wrote:

I am wondering if there is a connection between the girl and the CS?

I was wondering the same. Surely in the Chalet School world of coincidences there must be!

 

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#1065:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Sat Jul 03, 2004 11:10 pm

---

I'm just wondering if this wreck is a plot device or if Lesley has researched a real wreck. All the explanations sound so convincing!

*Prepared to keep an open mind on this and any other future developments having been taken in thoroughly by Nell's death *

Don't know how you manage all the research involved, Lesley.

 

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#1066:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Sun Jul 04, 2004 12:02 am

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*also wondering who the girl is, and if there's a connection!*

More soon please Lesley!!!

 

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#1067:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Sun Jul 04, 2004 1:48 pm

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Come on, Lesley, don't keep us waiting.

 

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#1068:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Sun Jul 04, 2004 3:36 pm

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I seem to remember that Lesley told me she would be writing heaps more of this yesterday whist I was at the NG. But I can't see any sign of it!

 

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#1069:  Author: catherine, Location: York Posted: Sun Jul 04, 2004 5:58 pm

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Ah but there's a difference between writing and posting, Pat!!!

 

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#1070:  Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly! Posted: Sun Jul 04, 2004 7:05 pm

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*hopping impatiently from one foot to the other*

 

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#1071:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Sun Jul 04, 2004 7:25 pm

---

Sorry all, I've had family here all day -just left - will be posting some later tonight!

 

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#1072:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Sun Jul 04, 2004 9:33 pm

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Is it later yet Lesley?

 

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#1073:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham Posted: Sun Jul 04, 2004 9:38 pm

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he he he

I'm up till late...... so I'm not bothered

 

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#1074:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Sun Jul 04, 2004 9:40 pm

---

Just about, Vikki! Having a five year old and twins of one around does mean a lot of tidying up! I'm knackered!!! Best I can do for now - more tomorrow!

They reached the site and were loading all the equipment onto a boat by eleven am. As well as the Instructors and the four friends, the party consisted of three others, Mark’s friend Pat, his girlfriend Sandy and Pat’s brother-in-law Stu. It was Pat’s boat and they were crewing it, normally he used the boat for private charters and for lessons, in the same way that Mark ran lessons, in diving. This weekend though, he was using the boat for his own and his friends’ pleasure. On the way out to the wreck, Mark and the other instructors briefed the four from the Real Chalet School.

“Now, diving to a wreck is different from the dives you’ve done before,” Mark began, “It’s a lot more dangerous than just looking at the flora and fauna,”

“Although Nancy will have some inkling of the danger!” Col put in, smiling, “But basically, when you start looking into a wreck you raise the potential for danger tenfold.”

“Remember NEVER to go somewhere on your own,” Mark said with some emphasis, “Always let your Buddy know where you are going, and if you plan to enter the wreck itself, wait until one of us has said it’s safe!”

Danny spoke next, “It’s very easy to get trapped in a wreck, the ship is rarely upright and, even if it is, people tend to forget that there may not be places to turn around, and while it can be easy to get into spaces, it’s nigh on impossible to get back out!”

“Well, after doing everything possible to put you off,” Mark said with a smile, “Are you still willing to dive?”

The four women looked at each other, Ruth answered for them all, “Definitely!”

A short time later the four from the Real Chalet School, the four instructors, Sandy and Pat were all getting ready to dive, Stu, recovering from a throat infection, was not fit to dive and had volunteered to come along and crew the boat. The four novice divers were each paired with an instructor and the first dive of the day began.

To begin with Ruth was bitterly disappointed, she admitted to herself that she had been expected to see something similar to the pictures of the Titanic, a broken ship, but one still with dignity. However the first sight of the Yacht Sunshine, was obscured by copious growths of seaweeds and other plant life. In fact she swam right past the yacht to begin with, until mark, her Buddy, pulled her back to gently point to the shape looming beneath the greenery. It was the Yacht Sunshine.

Fascinated she swam over, the vessel was on its side, in one piece as far as she could tell, with the hull protruding out of the sand. It seemed to indicate that it had almost turned turtle, only the relatively shallow waters preventing it from doing so completely before it sank. Ruth quickly wrote on her slate.

“How did it sink?”

Mark replied, “No one’s sure, the Captain swore that it took on water during a storm and sank. There was a heavy swell that night apparently. But no distress message was received from anyone, and with only the captain and a young girl surviving it was very strange.”

While reading this Ruth was joined by Nancy and Col, Col continued, “The captain was cleared of misconduct by a tribunal, he remained with the young heiress until his death some thirty years later, was her closest advisor both before and after she reached her majority.”

The dive continued, a number of small items were recovered, including a wallet with a small black and white photograph of a couple on their wedding day. Rosalind made this discovery and said she would try and find relatives of the dead couple, to return their belongings. In addition there was any number of pieces of crockery, glassware and cutlery. None of the instructors was willing to allow the novice divers to enter the yacht until they had had enough time to assess the dangers, however they could all follow the line of the hull and clamber onto the side of the vessel.

 

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#1075:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Sun Jul 04, 2004 9:47 pm

---

Cliff potential, and a mystery about the girl/dead people from the ship.!

Wonder what twists Lesley has in mind now.

 

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#1076:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Sun Jul 04, 2004 9:47 pm

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Wondering what Lesley has in store for us now!

 

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#1077:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Sun Jul 04, 2004 9:55 pm

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Thank you Lesley!!!!!
Looking forward to tomorrow's posts!!!

 

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#1078:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Sun Jul 04, 2004 10:41 pm

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thanks Lesley!

*Intrigued and scent a mystery to be solved*

 

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#1079:  Author: Angel, Location: London, England Posted: Sun Jul 04, 2004 11:03 pm

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fascinated

brilliant, thanks Lesley

 

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#1080:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 1:06 am

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Oooh mysteries all round!

 

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#1081:  Author: Nicole, Location: New Zealand Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 6:47 am

---

Interesting...

Looking forward for the next installment.

 

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#1082:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 9:45 am

---

*happy dancing*

thank you Lesley for the lovely drabble may we have some more please?

 

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#1083:  Author: Rachael,  Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 9:56 am

---

Lesley wrote:

You'll never know how close I got to changing Nell's fate because of all the messages etc I got!

Yes - I can testify to that!!
Lesley seemed worried that she would need protection at the SG once she'd revealed that Nell's death was in fact a ruse. She was seriously contemplating going ahead with it!!
I told her I could offer protection at the SG but if she really killed Nell. she's need some serious protection that night because I'd be on my way down to Kent!!

Loved the exchange between Hilda and Nell - so sweet!!
And semi-relieved that Hilda has a plan - though I'm sure it won't be easy!!

Geting increasing;y nervous about this dive .....!!

 

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#1084:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 12:00 pm

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I think that's Lesley's favourite technique, it gets us all really het up and sleepless.,

 

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#1085:  Author: caz, Location: Cambridge Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 12:22 pm

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Just caught up on this I think enough's been said about Nell's 'death' by everyone else, so I'll just confess that I was entirely convinced by it.

And now I'm very curious about this wreck...

 

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#1086:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 1:52 pm

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LOL at Rachael's threat to Lesley!!!

 

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#1087:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 2:02 pm

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If Lesley was worried that she'd need protection after not killing Nell she'd have needed it a lot more if she'd actually done it - & not just from Rachael!!!!

 

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#1088:  Author: Angel, Location: London, England Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 6:00 pm

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I would have protected Lesley, and I'm quite substantial...

 

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#1089:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 8:12 pm

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Looks like lesley is teasing us by sitting in C&D and reading all the other drabbles before posting on her own!

 

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#1090:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 8:14 pm

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That's what I thought, Carolyn.

 

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#1091:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 8:18 pm

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I haven't written it yet!

 

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#1092:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 8:24 pm

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...sobbing in bitter disappointment.

 

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#1093:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 9:35 pm

---

They also managed to investigate the wheelhouse or bridge, this part of the vessel, even on its side, showed a number of interesting items, a barometer with both arrows pointed toward calm, a clock showing that the ship must have sunk at 10.30, and, most interesting of all, the wheel itself. At first everyone missed the interesting thing about the wheel, it was, along with much of the wreck covered in seaweed, and it was some minutes before someone started to remove all the greenery. Then it was discovered that the seaweed had attached itself to a chain, and the chain connected the wheel to the stanchion beside it.

Back on their boat, after the morning’s dive was complete they all sat eating their lunch and discussing their finds.

“You know it might be perfectly innocent,” Mark began, “Lashing the wheel, I mean,”

His friend Pat nodded, “True, I do it if I want to stay on the same heading but need to visit another part of the boat.

“But this boat was sinking, surely the Captain, or whoever was steering, would have been there trying to steer the boat in to the shore.” Ruth put in quickly, “They wouldn’t have left it until there was nothing else to do but try and save themselves.”

“And when that happened they’d not have bothered fixing the wheel in one position.”

Nancy was frowning, “Is the way the yacht pointing relevant?” she asked rather quietly.

“What do you mean, Nance?” Kathie, her head on Nancy’s shoulder, asked.

“Well, the way it’s pointing at the moment. The pointed bit…”

“The bow,” Col put in quickly,

Nancy smiled, “Right, the bow is pointing away from the shore, as though it was being steered away from shore, not toward it.”

“Maybe the storm came up so quickly there wasn’t time to change the steering.” this from Rosalind.

“What storm?” Mark asked, “the barometer was signalling calm.”

“And if it happened that quickly, how come the Captain and the girl got off?” No one could answer that question and gradually the talk trailed off.

There was a break of about an hour before the next dive. Some of the group took the opportunity to sunbathe or have a sleep. Ruth and Rosalind investigated the wallet that Rosalind had found. It was a fairly large wallet, probably expensive at the time and made of leather. Although not in pristine condition it had kept its shape well and not allowed the contents to spill out. There were a number of coins, Australian money of the time, and folded into the back compartment, a large number of bank notes - these, unfortunately, did disintegrate!

The photograph that Rosalind had first seen was of a couple’s wedding day, on the back of the photo, in very faint lettering, could be made out the a date, March 19th 1924 and a place, New York. On the wallet, in gold letters, was a name William Maher.

Rosalind called across to Mark, “Was the name of the owner of the yacht, the businessman, called William Maher?”

Mark shook his head, “No, his name was Max, Max Barker. His granddaughter, Irene Barker inherited his entire estate. Nowadays Barker industries is probably amongst the biggest conglomerates in Australia.

“Pity,” Ruth murmured, “Still, we can see if this William Maher had any relatives later.”

A short time later they suited up ready for their next dive, this time the instructors made some extensive investigations, then pronounced that they would be willing to take the four friends into the yacht itself. Working in their pairs, but also keeping in close contact with the other groups, the divers all had the opportunity to swim down into the corridors and cabins of below decks on the yacht. When first describing the wreck, Mark had stressed that there had been a fairly large loss of life, it was thought there had been nineteen passengers and nine crew who had lost their lives, the divers were not altogether surprised therefore when they discovered their first corpse.

Luckily for Ruth she had a very level head, as she discovered the first when opening a cabin door, the cabin, like everything, was on its side, and trapped on the bunk was the skeletal remains dressed in clothes, of a guest. After the initial shock Ruth and the others were curious, checking, with due reverence, for any clues as to the name of the victim. After some discussion between Pat and Mark, Mark announced to everyone else that they would be contacted the relevant authorities about ensuring that the site was classed as a grave. The dive continued, although somewhat subdued, in total five sets of remains were discovered, all guests. The final one, discovered in the engine room, was the most mysterious. This one was strapped in his wheelchair and held what appeared to be a TV remote control in his hand. It was also immediately apparent that the reason for the Yacht Sunshine sinking had nothing to do with any stormy seas. A huge hole had been blown out of the ship, it must have sunk within seconds.

Last edited by Lesley on Mon Jul 05, 2004 10:06 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

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#1094:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 9:38 pm

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*gripped*

Lesley, please, I NEEEEEEEEEEED some more!

 

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#1095:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 9:57 pm

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Wow!

What happened!

We need to know.

 

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#1096:  Author: BethC, Location: Worcester, UK Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 10:05 pm

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Yes, please, Lesley!

 

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#1097:  Author: catherine, Location: York Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 10:06 pm

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Intriguing!

Looking forward to seeing how this develops. Thanks Lesley.

 

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#1098:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 10:27 pm

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Wow! No names that ring bells yet ....... The clues are probably in there, folks and I'm sure Lesley thinks it's obvious but my little grey cells can come up with nothing.

Lesley, I think we need more clues

 

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#1099:  Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 10:42 pm

---

Phew - caught up at last! This is absolutely fantabulous.
Thanks for the word doc Lesley - though it lured me into a false sense of security, I was just begining to think this was to be a story of the holidays - marred by only a few minor, well relative minor incidents when I got to the end and Nell had just disappeared!
I'l confess that I knew Nell was still alive before I read about her death because I didn't know which page to go to and saw a post celebrating the fact she was alive - but when I did read that scene I didn't have a clue how you were going to ensure her survival and if I had read it as it was written I really would have believed it.
The dive is setting up an intriguing mystery, (I think the daughter did it!) but do you mind if I just gently remind you that Hilda & Nell are still locked in a cell in Scotland?

 

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#1100:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2004 11:37 pm

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wonderful
can't wait for the mystery to unfold
wondering about H&N stuck in scotland though,

 

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#1101:  Author: Rachel, Location: Plotting in my lair Posted: Tue Jul 06, 2004 12:04 am

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COOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL!!!!

BODIES!

Care to describe the corpses in more detail for me please Lesley?

 

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#1102:  Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire Posted: Tue Jul 06, 2004 12:20 am

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Skeleton:

"The internal structure composed of bone and cartilage that protects and supports the soft organs, tissues, and other parts of a vertebrate organism; endoskeleton."

That do Rachel?

 

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#1103:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Tue Jul 06, 2004 1:45 am

---

Rachel - I guess someone had to say it, and equally, I guess it had to be you!

Ellie - LOVE your response to Rachel!!!!!


Lesley - MORE SOON PLEASE!!!!!!!

 

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#1104:  Author: Rachael,  Posted: Tue Jul 06, 2004 10:18 am

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Yes - the skeletons are all very interesting but there's nothing we can do for those poor souls ...

... but there is something we can do for Hilda & Nell!!

Lesley! Get back there and get them out of there before we have more skeletons to contend with!!

 

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#1105:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Tue Jul 06, 2004 10:21 am

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Whenever Rachael posts on this thread I wonder how much more she knows!!

 

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#1106:  Author: Lula, Location: Midlands, UK Posted: Tue Jul 06, 2004 11:10 am

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Both wow! and ewwww! to the skeletons...

This is wonderful!

 

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#1107:  Author: Rachael,  Posted: Tue Jul 06, 2004 12:31 pm

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Pat wrote:

Whenever Rachael posts on this thread I wonder how much more she knows!!

LOL, Pat!! On this occasion not much ...!

 

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#1108:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster Posted: Tue Jul 06, 2004 1:43 pm

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I feel like I'm reading an Agatha Christie- knowing it should be obvious but just not getting it!

 

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#1109:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Tue Jul 06, 2004 3:53 pm

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Yes, it's more than time we went back to them!

 

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#1110:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Tue Jul 06, 2004 6:13 pm

---

Lesley loved the description of the yacht and the dive, sounds fun though not sure i'd want to discover the skeletons! Am hoping that its the mystery of the sinking of the yacht that is key here and nothings going to happen to anyone...

...would also appreciate knowing whats happening in Scotland!

 

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#1111:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Tue Jul 06, 2004 8:50 pm

---

I can't go back to Scotland yet - realised that I'd gone ahead with the Scotland posts so that they were ahead of Melbourne - have to redress the balance to the norm - ie Melbourne half a day ahead of UK!

At this sight Mark immediately signalled to everyone to return to the surface, back on board the boat he looked round at everyone,

“Well I don’t know what everyone else expected,” he began quickly, “But it wasn’t that! Any ideas anyone?”

“I think we need to contact the authorities!” Ruth said firmly, the instructors looked at her with a little surprise, “That yacht was deliberately sunk, and those people on board died because of it.”

“Ruth’s right,” this from Nancy, “We’re not talking about ordinary graves any longer. This is a murder scene!”

There was silence from the men, then Col spoke apologetically, “Thing is, Nance,” he began, “It happened so long ago…”

“It was sixty one years ago,” Kathie put in quickly,

“Yeah but my grandma’s not even sixty one till next year,” Col replied, “and she always seems ancient!”

“And suppose that one of the people that died on that yacht was your great grandmother, Col,” Rosalind put in quickly, “You’d not be here!”

There was a murmur all round and everyone nodded in agreement, “I’ll call the coastguard,” Pat said quietly, “don’t know if it’s their jurisdiction or the Police, but they’ll know.”

The Coastguard arrived very quickly in response to the call; Mark and Pat went down to the wreck with some of the Coastguard divers, showing them all that had been discovered. Afterwards the senior member of the Coastguard team came over to address all the divers.

“Thanks for contacting us so promptly,” he began, smiling round at everyone, “We’ll start investigating now, I’ll need contact addresses from all of you, please.”

While these were being taken, Mark mentioned that the party would be staying overnight in a local Bed and Breakfast.

“Excellent,” the Coastguard officer replied, “Well I may have some news for you in the morning, more likely though it’ll just be some routine questions.” He looked at his watch, “It’s after five now, and being a Saturday it’s not likely that we’ll be able to get much done. I’ll be in touch!” With a wave he returned to the dinghy waiting to take him back to his ship.

Feeling somewhat deflated the group decided to return to shore and check into the B & B, twin rooms had been booked for Nancy and Kathie, Ruth and Rosalind. After spending the day wearing all the Scuba equipment they were all grateful for the chance to have a bath and get changed. That evening the men wanted to take them all out for a meal and drink. It promised to be an exciting night.

 

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#1112:  Author: catherine, Location: York Posted: Tue Jul 06, 2004 9:51 pm

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And do we get to hear about their exciting night?!

 

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#1113:  Author: Sophie, Location: Cambridegeshire Posted: Tue Jul 06, 2004 9:54 pm

---

First: thank you for saving Nell, Lesley. While I'm sure you'd have written it extremely movingly, I didn't want to read a story about Hilda bravely coming to terms with her loss. What I wanted to read was a story about Hilda and Nell wreaking their terrible revenge on whoever has kidnapped them...it looks like you might be going to give it to us! Thank you!

Second: the only rich Australian girl I can think of is Emerence Hope, but since I'm only up to Does It Again, I don't know what became of her. Anyway, she doesn't fit in. But 61 years ago...hmmm, 1943...was there a Chalet connection in Oz at that time? Con Stewart didn't go out there until after the war. Mrs Venables' in laws? Hmmm...thinking...

This is a fantastic story, Lesley, lots to think over!

 

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#1114:  Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire Posted: Tue Jul 06, 2004 11:18 pm

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Quote:

That evening the men wanted to take them all out for a meal and drink. It promised to be an exciting night.

Is it only my mind which is boggling at this sentence?

 

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#1115:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster Posted: Tue Jul 06, 2004 11:45 pm

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Mine is boggling too. I hope Lesley gives us something to boggle about...
*realises how very odd that sentence sounds*

 

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#1116:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 12:12 am

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*goes looking for Lesley, with the intent of poking her until more drabble is forthcoming*

 

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#1117:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 10:50 am

---

No Ellie, my mind was boggling too! Why 'exciting' not just fun, interesting, entertaining, eventful - actually that wouldn't have been any better...

 

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#1118:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 11:02 am

---

Just how exciting, or what way will it be exciting? Wishes Lesley didn't enjoy keeping us guessing.

 

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#1119:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 7:08 pm

---

Scotland

Hilda Annersley spoke for more than twenty minutes, letting her friend know of all the plans that had been made, Nell sat listening, nodding every so often.

“So you deliberately set yourself up to be captured?” she asked.

“Yes Nell, I had to find out if I was right, if the clues I’d seen were true. And I had to ensure that you knew what was going to happen! All being well we’ll be in here less than twenty-four hours, we can look on it as a rest cure!”

“For you, maybe,” Nell replied quickly, “Remember, I’ve already been here nearly three days. Still, at least I’ll have someone to talk to now! Can’t help remembering that time when Gwynneth Lloyd held you prisoner, Hilda, what was it, three weeks? I’d have gone crazy!”

Hilda smiled, “It was twenty-two days,” she responded, “And I did, at least, have a window for the first two weeks or so.” She stopped, eyeing her partner with some concern, “It’s not reminded you of anything has it, Nell? Being a prisoner here?”

“You mean Janet?” Nell asked lightly, she shook her head, “No, I’ve been too busy getting really angry. Besides, I think the most frightening thing with Janet was the fact that she was unstable and unpredictable. The people here? Just nasty, I can cope with nasty!”

Hilda smiled, “Well we have little to do, Nell, we may as well rest…” she stopped as Nell was shaking her head, “What is it?” she asked quickly.

Nell sighed, “We may have to take a far more active role,” she said solemnly, “Because I know why this whole thing is going on, what the security is for. I saw it on Wednesday, with your binoculars.”

“What is it?”

“They have another prisoner here, a rather well-known one. Before everything hits the fan tomorrow morning, we’re going to have to try and locate them, ensure we’re all in a place of safety.”



“Who is it?” Hilda asked, Nell told her, “I see, yes I agree, we’ll have to try and do something.” She yawned prodigiously!

“Am I boring you?”

Hilda smiled, still yawning she tried to explain, “I’m sorry Nell, I’ve barely slept these past three nights - some little thing kept me awake.” She eyed her friend meaningfully.

Nell smiled, “Well why don’t you sleep now?” At Hilda’s quizzical look she elaborated, “We’ll not be trying anything until tonight, will we? I know it’s underground and dark at all times, but people will be less alert when its night outside.”

She guided her partner to the second bed, “Sleep now Hilda, I’m not going anywhere.”

Hardly able to keep her eyes open, Hilda acquiesced, laying on the bed and allowing Nell to draw a blanket over her.

“Before you go to sleep, lend me your watch, would you Hilda?” Nell said softly, “It’ll be nice to judge the time again.”

Hilda searched one of her pockets, “Can do better than that, Nell,” she said sleepily, she passed over Nell’s own watch and rosary, she then closed her eyes and slept.

Nell looked down at her sleeping friend while fastening her watch around her wrist, “God, I’ve missed you!” she said quietly.

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Jul 07, 2004 7:11 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

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#1120:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 7:11 pm

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Thank you Lesley! That was great, but now we have yet ANOTHER mystery!!!

 

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#1121:  Author: Lula, Location: Midlands, UK Posted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 7:14 pm

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How lovely!

 

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#1122:  Author: Alex, Location: Home again Posted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 7:20 pm

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I'd finally come to terms with fact that Nell was dead, despite the fact that I was sure they should ask about organ donation before they switched off the ventilator and if that's right then Lesley would know and then I log on and find she's not dead after all.

I hope you can understand that very confused sentence!

 

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#1123:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 7:22 pm

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*Agrees with Lula*

*also relieved that Hilda has a master plan*

*Still think Lesley has a twist up her sleeve*

I'm not sure I can cope with 2 mysteries at a time, Lelsey. I'm 'a bear of little brain' - and even shakier nerves

 

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#1124:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge Posted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 8:39 pm

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PLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEASE may we have some more...

I am close enough to madness trying to sort out my Brownie Holiday without twisty-turny-cliffyness of the sort that Lesley does best pushing me right over into gibbering insanity...

 

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#1125:  Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly! Posted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 8:44 pm

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*perched very close to the edge of the chair and tiring out the poor little hamster in its wheel inside my brain trying to work out what may happen next*

Thank you Lesley

 

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#1126:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 10:11 pm

---

Australia

That evening started in a Greek restaurant that Mark and Danny knew well; the party were seated up on the mezzanine floor around a large oval table. The men refused to allow the four from the Real Chalet School to pay for anything, instead ordering a special menu that included all known Greek delicacies. For all their travel around Europe, Greece was one country that none of the four had visited in the past, therefore the food was all new to them, however they fell upon it with relish. The drink ordered was unusual too, none of the four had tasted ouzo before, and its peppermint-like flavour initially caused all of them to miscalculate its potency.

Once the meal was over, and before the restaurant decided to indulge in its almost weekly ritual of breaking all the plates, the party left and wandered into town. In the centre of town a travelling fairground had pitched itself, with both the stalls and carnivals as well as the rides. Although no one was drunk they were all rather merry and decided that riding on some of the more hair-raising rides would be a good way to finish their evening.

In the queue for a ride called the rocket, Ruth heard her friend’s mobile ring, as Rosalind read a text message she unashamedly read it over her shoulder.

“missin u. luv G”

“Hmmm!” Ruth whispered to her friend, “Wonder who that’s from!”

Rosalind smiled rather shyly,

Much later the four friends made their way back to their hotel, luckily they had a front door key as the entire place was in darkness, giggling slightly they made their way into their rooms, waving before disappearing. They all settled down very quickly, indeed most of them were asleep before their heads touched their pillows…

It was perhaps two hours later that Rosalind Moore was suddenly awoken; in her half-asleep state, she thought at first that she was back at the School and listening to the latest Middle antics. She could hear the very low whisper of voices, male voices. And they were inside her room! Slowly she opened one eye, a man stood at the open door, peering in with some concentration, another man was crouched beside both her and Ruth’s belongings, rifling through the clothing and toiletries, seeming to search for something.

She must have made a slight noise, almost involuntarily, because suddenly one of the men was there, on top of her, preventing her from moving. A hand across her mouth stopped her calling out and a voice whispered into her ear,

“Do exactly what I say, and you’ll not get hurt!”

 

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#1127:  Author: Wrinkles, Location: My Bedroom Posted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 10:20 pm

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Oooh! This is a bit of a scary drabble!!

 

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#1128:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 10:25 pm

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Nice one Lesley!!! Two cliffs!!

 

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#1129:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England Posted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 10:27 pm

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I knew we were about to have both groups in trouble at the same time!!!

Brilliant...have you caught Melbourne up enough yet, can we see what is happening to Hilda and Nell?

Although I would like to know who was looking for what as well.

 

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#1130:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 10:27 pm

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Two cliffs

*which one shall I jump from?*

 

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#1131:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 10:41 pm

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Aaaargh!!!!
LESLEY!!!!!!

 

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#1132:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster Posted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 10:46 pm

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Eeeeeeeeeeek!

 

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#1133:  Author: Nicci, Location: UK Posted: Wed Jul 07, 2004 11:59 pm

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Lesley wrote:

Nell looked down at her sleeping friend while fastening her watch around her wrist, “God, I’ve missed you!” she said quietly.

Something about that line brought tears to my eyes Lesley. So beautiful.

And meanwhile - why on earth can't Rosalind and co go out for once and not end up in trouble. Although I might say that about any of the RCS folk! Who are the men? Is it about the wreck?

*wibbling*

 

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#1134:  Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 12:17 am

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I came home, got myself ready to read RCS, started reading it and promptly fell off two cliffs consecutively! ARGH! Who are all these mysterious people?!

thank you Lesley - but are we going to find out anything soon?!

 

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#1135:  Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 1:34 am

---

I have the greatest admiration for your writing skills Lesley, but I'm rather less impressed by your lack of mercy. What did we do to deserve double anxiety?

 

---

#1136:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 5:39 am

---

Ellie wrote:

I have the greatest admiration for your writing skills Lesley, but I'm rather less impressed by your lack of mercy. What did we do to deserve double anxiety?

But it's so much fun, Ellie!

*Whoops - look at the time - I'm late - gotta go!*

 

---

#1137:  Author: Nicole, Location: New Zealand Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 6:58 am

---

Two cliffs? Two cliffs??

Lesley, this is hardly fair - especially when I saw you had posted and I thought there was more story...

*Trying very hard not to throw myself of 2 cliffs at once*

 

---

#1138:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 9:29 am

---

Am starting to worry about what is happening in Nottingham with the girls


Lesley wouldn't give us 3 cliffs at once would she??????


Lesley????



LESLEY????

 

---

#1139:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 9:40 am

---

Oh, these drabble cliffs!

 

---

#1140:  Author: Rachael,  Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 10:37 am

---

*giggling at Lesley - again!!*

*thinks Lesley needs to be careful - it's not long 'til the SG and more importantly, isn't shegoing to the Hampshire G this weekend?!!*

Hmmm, I'm very concerned about the intruders in the B&B - presumably they've got something to do with the sinking of the yacht?

Well, I would stop and comment further but I have an e-mail from Lesley in my in-box with an attachment - hope it sheds some light on frther developments!!

 

---

#1141:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 11:03 am

---

Do you indeed!!!
Tes Lesley is perfectly capable of giving us 3 cliffs and is very probably intending to do just that!!

 

---

#1142:  Author: Rachael,  Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 11:07 am

---

*g* - thought you'd bite, Pat!!

*sigh*
Very nice snippet - but seems to raise more questions than it answered - typical!!

 

---

#1143:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 11:09 am

---

Well its nice to know you get the same treatment even if you are a post (or more!!) ahead of us!!!

 

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#1144:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 11:46 am

---

Two cliffs!! Rachael for gloating!!!

As for Lesley, now what can we do to her on Saturday...

 

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#1145:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 11:55 am

---

Nell wrote:

As for Lesley, now what can we do to her on Saturday...

Take care of her!

We want to know what happens in the end and we can't do that if you've taken short term revenge on her

 

---

#1146:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 12:07 pm

---

Oh ok then...we'll be gentle!

 

---

#1147:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 2:00 pm

---

*squawks in horror*

I come back on the board after 4 days away, and promptly find myself at the bottom of two cliffs, with threatenings for a third! Lesley!!!

Loving the Hilda and Nell interaction - last line brought tears to my eyes! And may I just add, I knew that the mistresses were going to get into trouble diving! I just knew it! (I'm presuming that the robbery and the diving incident are linked - Lesley knows that our brains can't handle three different cliffs at once!)

Is this going to lead to buried treasure?

Loving the updates, Lesley!

Can we have some more now, please?

 

---

#1148:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 2:05 pm

---

Oh. My. Gosh. Having just read the whole thing in 3 hours, I have come to the conclusion that you (Lesley, I mean) are one of the nastiest, meanest, most talented people I have ever come across!

This was the first drabble I ever cried in! And now I have mascara down my cheeks... and SO many cliffs! (well, it feels that way).

Equally....it appears that the prefects have had impossibly few dramas thus far! I can't imagine that you'd shun them completely...so where do they come in??

More please!!!

 

---

#1149:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 4:38 pm

---

Rachael wrote:

*thinks Lesley needs to be careful - it's not long 'til the SG and more importantly, isn't shegoing to the Hampshire G this weekend?!!*

I don't think Lesley needs to worry as much as you do if you keep taunting us.......

Rachael wrote:

Well, I would stop and comment further but I have an e-mail from Lesley in my in-box with an attachment - hope it sheds some light on frther developments!!

*Starts to plot*

 

---

#1150:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 4:40 pm

---

Rachael, would you please forward that e-mail to me? pretty please with a cherry on?

 

---

#1151:  Author: Rachael,  Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 4:42 pm

---

*g*

But Kathye, sweetie, I can't come to Hampshire so you can't get me there and it would be extremely poor form to nobble me at the SG and expect a warm welcome ...

*also thinking Cropredy *

ETA - Jennie - would love to but I'm not sure Lesley would approve!! And I do not want to be left personally dangling from a cliff as others have been for less!!

 

---

#1152:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 5:22 pm

---

*echoes Jennie's request*

*joins in plotting with Kathye*

*needs to stop thinking in asterixes*

 

---

#1153:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 5:39 pm

---

Rachael wrote:

it would be extremely poor form to nobble me at the SG and expect a warm welcome ... *also thinking Cropredy *

You just keep thinking that Rachael....there is more than one way to skin a cat as they say *Who does say that !!*

Apart from "me"........ obviously ......then ....

You keep teasing and we will keep plotting and we will see who comes out of it the winner !!

 

---

#1154:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 5:43 pm

---

Oh dear! There will be tears before bedtime, the way this is going........

 

---

#1155:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 6:21 pm

---

Vikki wrote:

Oh dear! There will be tears before bedtime, the way this is going........

*Orders extra tramolines, same day delivery*

*has Gem's disease and can't stop thinking in aterixes*

*Frets*

*Has inspiration - another glass of wine *


















*relaxes*












*but keeps a beady eye open for Lesley's next post *

 

---

#1156:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 6:40 pm

---

*follows PatMac's example and settles down at bottom of cliff with glass of Archers*

PatMac, can I use the trampolines as well? I broke mine

 

---

#1157:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 6:59 pm

---

Erm... could we have some more please?

 

---

#1158:  Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 7:15 pm

---

*speechless* Thank goodness Lesley sent me an attachment a week or so ago so I didn't have to effectively re-read the whole thing but..!!!! Lesley, you're wonderful. I did know you hadn't permanently killed Nell though- after what happened last time.... besides, I remembered you saying something about how difficult it was to write the add on for Tensions and this would have been worse!!!!!


MORE PLEeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease! *so nice to chant*

 

---

#1159:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 7:28 pm

---

Gem wrote:

PatMac, can I use the trampolines as well? I broke mine

Hi, Gem *raises glass*

*Doubles order for trampolines - pays extra for express delivery*

 

---

#1160:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 7:38 pm

---

*clinks glass with PatMac and wonders where the rest of the Archers has gone*

*giggles* Oh right, I can guess

*Promises to pay PatMac back when has money - have just spent horrifying £100 on 2 day holiday!!!!*

I REALLY need to stop thinking in asterixes.

Lesley... any chance of an update tonight? *smiles appealingly*

*gives up and starts chanting for update*

 

---

#1161:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 8:05 pm

---

Just a little one for now!
*I hate theM25! *

Scotland

It was barely an hour or so later, certainly not long enough as far as Hilda Annersley was concerned, when she was awoken by her friend’s urgent whisper. She opened her eyes; she was lying on her side, with the blanket still tucked in around her. With her peripheral vision she quickly noted two things; firstly that the cell door was open and secondly that Nell was standing facing the far wall, her hands up, a guard stood just in front of her, searching her. Hilda could use only her peripheral vision to note these things as the rest of her view was taken up with the barrel of a sub-machine gun only inches from her eyes.

“Get up now!” The order from the guard, he sounded impatient, “Stand facing the wall!”

The Headmistress of the Real Chalet School sat up slowly, her gaze moved to the guard, “Do you think you could point that somewhere else?” Her tone was so matter-of-fact that the guard had moved before he even realised it! Hilda got up and went to stand next to her partner. Both of the women were searched and the cell itself was thoroughly checked before the two guards left.

“Do you think you could point that somewhere else!” Nell quoted with some amusement, “I half expected you to start lecturing him, as well!”

“It’s early days yet!” Hilda replied, smiling, “Does that sort of thing happen a lot?”

Nell nodded, “Three or four times a day,” she said resignedly, “It breaks up the monotony, but it was really annoying when they discovered the knife I’d made from some of the granite samples.”

Hilda moved to remake the bed before lying back on it, “Never mind,” she soothed, “They didn’t discover the items we need to keep hidden.”

“No, with any luck the first time they come across them, it will be because we’re using them!”

 

---

#1162:  Author: Angel, Location: London, England Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 8:08 pm

---

Oh, I like that - the matter-of-fact-ness of it all.

Angel

 

---

#1163:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 8:09 pm

---

Yay, chanting for updates works! Lesley, I sympathise regarding the M25 - got stuck on it myself today!!!!

Love the update though But, would like to remind you that they're still not saved. Also, am getting distinctly concerned about the girls - I'm SURE they must have got into some trouble by now!

 

---

#1164:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 8:10 pm

---

Thank you Lesley!

*wonders where Hilda and Nell are hiding these things!!!!!!*

 

---

#1165:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 8:36 pm

---

*mind boggling at what I think Vikki's suggesting* Oh wouldn't it be nice to have a mind that didn't have permanent residence in the gutter?!

Please post some more Lesley and shut my mind up. *looks hopeful*

 

---

#1166:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 8:38 pm

---

Mora, I thought exactly the same thing! Glad to know I'm not the only one with a mind permanently in the gutter!!!!

 

---

#1167:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 8:39 pm

---

The problem is that if the stuff isn't where everyone automatically thinks it is(!!!) where on earth is it?

 

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#1168:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 8:39 pm

---

*turns a shocked gaze on both Mora and Gem*

 

---

#1169:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 8:45 pm

---

*hides behind Pat *

Apparently we were wrong about what Vikki was insinuating, Mora

 

---

#1170:  Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 8:50 pm

---

I think Vikki is double bluffing. She probably did mean what you thought she meant, but cos she didn't say so, she can act shocked when you catch on....if that makes sense?
*speaking from painful experience of Vikki's imagination*
*running to hide*

That was lovely, Lesley. Do you know what this word ends with? M_ _ _?

 

---

#1171:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 8:55 pm

---

You weren't wrong Gem!!! Vikki's only pretending the innocent bit!! Once you've met her she can't get away with it any more!!!

 

---

#1172:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 8:59 pm

---

*Giggling at insinuations - this is Hilda and Nell we're talking about!*

*Going off to write some more.*

Last edited by Lesley on Thu Jul 08, 2004 9:26 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

---

#1173:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 9:02 pm

---

*deeply wounded by the hurtful comments from Lisa and Pat*

 

---

#1174:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 9:05 pm

---

*peeks out from behind Pat and frowns at Vikki for scaring her (me, not Pat)*

Lesley, I see you're on the board - writing anything interesting, possibly? *g*

 

---

#1175:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 9:18 pm

---

Lesley wrote:

*Giggling at insinuations - this is Hilda and Nell we're taliking about!*

That's why it's so awful! Glad I'm not alone in being awful tho

Lesley wrote:

*Going off to write some more.*

YAY!!!!

 

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#1176:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 9:28 pm

---

Australia

At the words Rosalind Moore stiffened, staring at the man’s face only inches from her own,

“Now, I need the answer to one question, then I’ll be gone.” The man hissed, “I’m looking for the wallet you found earlier today. If I let you speak you’ll not call out?” He seemed to almost be pleading with her.

Rosalind shook her head slightly, and the man removed his hand from her mouth, “Why do you want the wallet?” she asked, surprising herself by how steady her voice was.

“Let’s just say someone is prepared to pay a lot of money for it,” was the quick response.

Rosalind stared into the man’s face for some seconds before making a decision, “In the buff coloured bag, side pocket,” she said quietly. The man levered himself up onto his feet and moved across to the bag.

There was a disturbance at the door, the other man looked across impatiently, “Found it?” he asked, at the first man’s triumphant nod he continued, “Good, now let’s get out of here. Are you going to silence her?” He pointed toward Rosalind.

“No! I told her she’d not be hurt!”

“More fool you, she can identify you, can’t ID me!” The man was half hidden in the shadows, he turned to go and the first man followed, at the door he turned back,

“Thanks love!” He then disappeared, Rosalind heard the sound of running feet, first inside the hotel, then out in the street. Then there was the sound of a motorbike roaring away and then silence.

Inside the hotel room Rosalind slowly sat up, almost unable to believe what had just happened. In the other bed Ruth stirred,

“Terrible noise those motorbikes make,” she said sleepily, “Did it wake you too?”

 

---

#1177:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 9:30 pm

---

Lol at the last comment! The mystery deepens... Why am I not surprised?

 

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#1178:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 9:35 pm

---

Poor Rosalind! Love the last comment though!!!

 

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#1179:  Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 9:53 pm

---

But who told about the wallet? The coast guard? Or is one of the diving party a double crossing *********

 

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#1180:  Author: Angel, Location: London, England Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 10:52 pm

---

I'm thinking something was overheard.

And why do I suspect that Rosalind directed them to her own wallet, which would mean it would be a lot easier to trace the thieves.

 

---

#1181:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 11:22 pm

---

Lesley try living next to it !! (the M25 that is)

I dont know who to worry about first right now, or which cliff to jump down, whos got the most alchahol left ??

Joins Gem with the new bottle of Archers that arrived with the Trampolines

 

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#1182:  Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 11:25 pm

---

Does anyone have any spare ropes? I've just gone to get my climbing harness to put on, but that doesn't stop me falling off the cliff if there's no rope attached!!

*Likes the idea of the archers tho as only has half a glass of wine left*

 

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#1183:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England Posted: Thu Jul 08, 2004 11:35 pm

---

Couldn't resist another quick look before bed

thanks Lesley. At least the Australian contingent are not captives

*sigh of relief*

 

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#1184:  Author: Rosie, Location: Huntingdonshire Posted: Fri Jul 09, 2004 12:11 am

---

Ruth B wrote:

Does anyone have any spare ropes? I've just gone to get my climbing harness to put on, but that doesn't stop me falling off the cliff if there's no rope attached!! *Likes the idea of the archers tho as only has half a glass of wine left*

Now, the good thing about working in a climbing gear shop is that you get a nice discount on these sorts of things!! If I brought along some chalk as well we could amuse ourselves whilst we wait for Lesley!!

 

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#1185:  Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK Posted: Fri Jul 09, 2004 12:30 am

---

*Produces her chalk ball and lobs it in Rosie's direction. Then thinks it would be better directed at Lesley and looks hopefully in Rosie's direction*

Lesley that's climbing slang for ..... More!!!!!!!!!!

 

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#1186:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US Posted: Fri Jul 09, 2004 1:29 am

---

*admires H & N's self-possession and thinks hopefully (or tries to) about concealed items*
(has nagging fear that cell is bugged, but is sure Hilda would have planned for that )

*joins Ellie in fretting over who told whom about wallet*

 

---

#1187:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Fri Jul 09, 2004 9:07 am

---

What do you mean, need some rope? I stocked all the drabble cliffs fully. Too many people hanging from them so some more is needed?

 

---

#1188:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) Posted: Fri Jul 09, 2004 9:38 am

---

Can we pleeeease have some more soon? These cliffs are quite sheer, you know... and I'm out all weekend and won't be able to check it! Grr.

More please!

 

---

#1189:  Author: Rachael,  Posted: Fri Jul 09, 2004 9:39 am

---

If Rosalind did direct the men to a different wallet then they're very stupid for not checking - and would mean Ros & Ruth were in more danger as they'd be bound to return ...

Bet Ruth was gutted about sleeping through!!

 

---

#1190:  Author: Angel, Location: London, England Posted: Fri Jul 09, 2004 12:18 pm

---

But they'd have enough time to get a plan together...

 

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#1191:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) Posted: Fri Jul 09, 2004 1:41 pm

---

How did they get in? Did they have access? In which case is the major involved somehow?

 

---

#1192:  Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans Posted: Fri Jul 09, 2004 1:43 pm

---

Well I guess that proves that a very old murder is still important!

I wondered if Ros had really directed them to the wallet too, still not sure either way.

 

---

#1193:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Fri Jul 09, 2004 1:48 pm

---

I strongly suspect the daughter who inherited, or, perhaps the young man who wanted to marry her.

 

---

#1194:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent Posted: Fri Jul 09, 2004 4:28 pm

---

Some time later Ruth was apologising once more to Rosalind, “I feel terrible,” she said, “Sleeping through everything like that. I’m sorry Ros.”

Rosalind, sat on her bed with a mug of coffee in her hands, smiled across at her friend, “Don’t be silly, Ruth,” she said, reaching across to pull her friend down beside her on the bed. “If you had been awake it’s possible that the other man would have been involved, and he sounded far nastier than the one who attacked me!” She looked across at the policeman crouched beside the bags, he seemed somewhat uncomfortable. He looked up at the woman on the bed,

“Can you remember anything else, Miss Moore?”

“I’ve told you all I can remember,” Rosalind returned, “It all happened so quickly, I’m afraid I can’t describe the second man, but at least you have a good description of the first. I’m sure you’ll also be able to retrieve some of his fingerprints from the bags, he wasn’t wearing gloves.”

“We’ll not be retrieving finger prints,” the policeman said quickly, he stood up and looked over at Rosalind, “You say the only thing missing is a sixty year old wallet that had been in the sea until yesterday? It’s not worth while.”

“What?” Ruth was incensed, “Those men attacked my friend, she could have been killed, and you’re saying it’s not worth pursuing them?”

“Plus they broke into my hotel,” the owner of the hotel, Mrs Harris, bristled, “The lock is forced and everything, And you are not going to try and catch them?”

“You’ll get your Police number for the insurance,” the policeman said quickly, “I’m just saying that, for the amount they took, it’s not going to be worth expending a lot of resources. The wallet sounds pretty worthless anyway.”

“The man that attacked me said someone was prepared to pay a lot of money for it!” Rosalind put in quietly.

“It was more likely an initiation into some street gang,” the policeman said derisively. He took a few more details into his notebook, issued a crime number to Mrs Harris for her insurance details, and left.

A short time later Mrs Harris left too, after first promising that Rosalind’s stay would be for free. The two friends looked at each other.

“If it were an initiation, Ros,” Ruth began, “How did they know about the wallet in the first place? I mean only the diving team knew about it.”

“And the Coastguard,” Rosalind remarked absently, “I mentioned it to him, wondered if he wanted it ,because of his investigation. He said no.”

“Well it’s a real mystery,” Ruth replied, “I don’t blame you for telling them where the wallet was Ros, but it means we’ll probably never find out anything about it, now!”

“Oh I wouldn’t say that, Ruth,” Rosalind grinned across at her friend, “They’ve got the wallet, but I can remember the name on it. And I’d taken out the photo, that’s in my purse. We can still do some investigating ourselves!”

 

---

#1195:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire Posted: Fri Jul 09, 2004 4:35 pm

---

Thank you, Lesley. Another cliff for us to hang from.

 

---

#1196:  Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans Posted: Fri Jul 09, 2004 5:10 pm

---

Well done Ros for remembering the name etc. I guess the police's reaction is understandable but I have this feeling there's going to be more trouble coming... I wonder why I think that

 

---

#1197:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) Posted: Fri Jul 09, 2004 5:11 pm

---

I mean, my arm muscles are really building up now and everything... Lesley, could you possibly fund some sort of escalator back up?!

More please!

 

---

#1198:  Author: Lula, Location: Midlands, UK Posted: Fri Jul 09, 2004 5:19 pm

---

Oooh... intriguing..

 

---

#1199:  Author: Angel, Location: London, England Posted: Fri Jul 09, 2004 5:26 pm

---

Interesting - Why do I suspect there's another corrupt police team, and we have the guy that was kicked off the diving school to worry about. OK, so we're going to have a culmination/combination of the Scottish corrupt police and the Aussie Corrupt police ??

 

---

#1200:  Author: pim, Location: the place where public transport doesn't work properly! Posted: Fri Jul 09, 2004 6:43 pm

---

My brain is whizzing so fast my vision's starting to go blurry and I may have to go and lie down to get over this.

*chants* The mystery is deepening so much I'm going to need a very big step ladder to sort things out in my head!

 

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