You Both Need A Break!
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The CBB -> Cookies & Drabbles
#2001:  Author: Robin, Location: London, England PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 3:05 pm

Cathy wrote:
Lesley wrote:


He reached across and hugged her, turning to Hilda he grinned, “And you are so like my wife in how you argue, it’s uncanny.”

“I didn’t know you were married, Rob?” Alison said with interest.

Rob’s eyes clouded over, “She died, many years ago.”



I suppose her name was Marion! When do Little John and Friar Tuck join the gang? Wink


one of my best friends surname is hood - when we were little, I always wanted to marry her brother. In fact, I still do - I keep telling him, it would only be for a couple of weeks, as long as I could keep his surname!

this is fun, thanks Lesley

 

#2002:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 3:40 pm

Kat wrote:
Brilliant as ever Lesley - just one incy wincy point though.... where's the next bit??


I suppose the answer, "on Lesley's work PC, on my lap-top and winging its way to Lesley's home PC" isn't going to satisfy you?! Confused Wink

 

#2003:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 3:46 pm

What do you think Rachael?!!!!

 

#2004:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 3:55 pm

That was wonderful, thank you, Lesley.

 

#2005:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 4:15 pm

Wow - I've been away one night and there's three new bits!

And I didn't get that Robin Hood thing... I only just clicked that his name was Rob LOL! Embarassed Oh well. I havent had much sleep!

 

#2006:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 4:23 pm

Rachael wrote:
Kat wrote:
Brilliant as ever Lesley - just one incy wincy point though.... where's the next bit??


I suppose the answer, "on Lesley's work PC, on my lap-top and winging its way to Lesley's home PC" isn't going to satisfy you?! Confused Wink


Not a bit! Razz

You could post it for her though *looks politely enquiring* ?

 

#2007:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 4:36 pm

*g*
Oh yes - just like she gives away stuff on WL?! Rolling Eyes

Plus she has a rather novel way of blackmailing me at the moment so I think I'll pass - thanks all the same, Kat!!

 

#2008:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 5:03 pm

What's WL?!

How is she black mailing you? *looks intrigued*

 

#2009:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 5:07 pm

*g*
Sorry, Kat - WL is my drabble about Joey's Wonderful Life - a take on the Frank Capra film, but it's a bit depressing until the end (if I follow the film strictly that is Wink ) so I wouldn't recommend it ...

And I'm most definitely not telling you lot how she's blackmailing although Lesley may choose to do so ... Evil or Very Mad Rolling Eyes

 

#2010:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 5:17 pm

Ah! I've been reading you're drabble - just didnt make the connection from it to WL!!

You could just save Lesley the trouble and tell me!

 

#2011:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 7:42 pm

Laughing Laughing All I said was that, for RCS5 I was thinking of having the HR manager attempt to murder Miss Wilson. Can't understand why Rachael nearly choked. *Innocence smiley*

The group made their way back to the resort and returned the equipment to the archery stand. Alison and Carol, after a quick goodbye to Rob, disappeared, intending to take a boat out on the lake. Rob came up to speak to Hilda and Nell,

“I understand you’ll be leaving here tomorrow morning?” He smiled.

“Yes, we have a flight back to Australia on Friday, leaving from Heathrow,” this from Nell.

“Oh, well I’ll miss you, will you be at the Blue Boar tonight?”

Hilda nodded, “Yes, it will be good to see Richard Leigh’s face when we present him with the form confirming that he no longer owes Gisborn any money!”

Rob smiled, “Makes you feel good, doing something like that for someone.” He waved and started to turn away when Nell’s voice stopped him.

“But surely you must be used to that now… Robin,”

Rob spun round, What did you call me?” he said quietly.

Hilda and Nell exchanged smiles, “Nell called you by your true name, Robin,” she said softly, “And you didn’t really make a great deal of effort to hide it, did you?”

“I don’t understa…”

“The film we watched last night,” Hilda continued, “It was an American one. In it the lead character referred to a car bonnet as a hood. It wasn’t that difficult to work out.”

Rob looked round in some panic then indicated that the two women follow him into an empty office. Once everyone was seated he spoke once more, “If you guessed last night, why didn’t you say something?”

“We’re very good at keeping secrets.” Nell’s face was expressionless.

“And we would not have mentioned it,” Hilda continued, “Except that you tried too hard today, and neither of us takes well to being coerced into doing something.”

Rob looked almost sheepish, “I gathered, I’ve never had people decide to change how one of my scenarios would work before.”

Nell reached across to place an arm on his shoulder, “We have experienced being forced to do things,” she said, “Not having any choice, we are both very resistant to that situation now.”

Rob looked across at both of them, “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have tried to force you. But please, tell me how you can appear so calm? I mean you are speaking to someone that is pure legend, if they even existed it was more than 800 years ago! Yet neither of you even seem surprised!”

“We are very broad minded.” Hilda said, smiling, “Now, please tell us of which two people we remind you.”

“That’s easy,” Rob grinned, he looked across at Nell, “Your surname is Wilson, tell me, do you have a nickname?”

“Yes, Bill,” Nell replied.

“Yet it could so easily have been Will, couldn’t it? And with that red top of yours…”

“Will Scarlet?”

“Yes, and he really was a good friend.” Rob turned to look at Hilda, “As for you, Hilda, you do resemble my wife, not in looks in character, and fate seems determined to show me that is the case.”

“What do you mean?” Hilda was intrigued.

“I happened to see your full name last night, when you handed over your credit card. Hilda Mary Annersley. It’s fairly simple to see the name Marion in there, Mary-Ann!”

 

#2012:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 7:46 pm

Are they going to admit their own origins Lesley?

 

#2013:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 8:01 pm

Lesley wrote:
Laughing Laughing All I said was that, for RCS5 I was thinking of having the HR manager attempt to murder Miss Wilson. Can't understand why Rachael nearly choked. *Innocence smiley*


Lol!

 

#2014:  Author: Ella, Location: Staffordshire PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 8:34 pm

Nicely done!
Thank you also for the last bit by way of explanation. Some of us poor dimwits (well, me anyway) didn't catch on until almost at the end of that! Shocked Shocked

*Goes of to bang head on wall as now realises why the Scarlet jumper had been bugging me for several days as being significant!* Rolling Eyes

 

#2015:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 8:35 pm

Well, if one fictional universe can escape to the real world why not another?

*Wonders what is real Rolling Eyes *

*Pours another glass of wine to help philosphical thoughts*

 

#2016:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 8:38 pm

Wine won't help with that Pat!!!

 

#2017:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 8:55 pm

ROFL ROFL ROFL ROFL ROFL ROFL ROFL ROFL

At Lesley's blackmail methods!!!!!!

 

#2018:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 8:56 pm

*happy dancing*

Thank you your shininess Very Happy

 

#2019:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 10:02 pm

Pat wrote:
Wine won't help with that Pat!!!


Really? Surprised

All the most profound thoughts I've had have been after a few glasses of wine.

*shame I can't remember any of them now Wink *

 

#2020:  Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 10:04 pm

OMG... would you believe I didn't twig at all. I just said the Marion thing in jest..... ooops Embarassed

But wonderful.

Now please may we have some more shiny drabble for all those of us not going to the SG Smile

JackieJ

 

#2021:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 10:17 pm

Yes! More would be very good Lesley!!!!

 

#2022:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 11:28 pm

The rest of the day was spent fairly sedately, Hilda and Nell spent most of the time by the pool, occasionally going for a swim, they were joined by Alison and Carol from lunch time onwards and, mid-afternoon, Louise and Andrew appeared back from their day in Nottingham. They told them about the events of that morning, although neither Hilda nor Nell mentioned anything about Rob’s true identity.

Deciding that they wanted to get everything packed, for an early start the next morning, they all wandered back to the lodge at about five. Once there, Louise asked to speak to Hilda and Nell privately and the three of then retired to the kitchen. Sat around the kitchen table, Louise looked somewhat nervous and both the older women picked up on this immediately,

“Louise, is something wrong?” Hilda asked quickly, reaching across to grasp one of the girl’s hands.

Louise shook her head and took a deep breath, “No, nothing’s wrong, Hilda,” she said softly, “Only, Andrew and I have been talking.” She paused for a moment, long enough for both Hilda and Nell to consider any number of serious scenarios, when she spoke once more it was a relief for them both!

“Andrew asked if I would go back with him to Cambridge tonight,” she said quickly, “We’ve booked a room in a decent hotel, and we thought that perhaps you could pick me up on your way down to Heathrow tomorrow.”

There was silence for a time, Hilda and Nell looked at each other, both realising exactly what Louise was asking. Hilda spoke first, “Is this what you want, Louise?”

Louise nodded, blushing slightly, “It is, we both felt that a little privacy would be good.”

Nell smiled slightly, “My dear, you are classed as an adult, you do not have to seek our permission.”

Louise nodded, “I know that, Nell,” she reached across so that she could hold hands with both the Heads, “But I did want both of you to give me your blessing.”

There was another silence then Hilda got up and walked round to the girl, pulling her out of the chair she hugged her and kissed her on the top of the head, “You have my blessing, Louise, remember what I said to you before.” She sat back down and looked toward Nell.

Nell sat for what seemed like hours, though it was barely 30 seconds, she stood up and walked over to face Louise, her hands on the girl’s shoulders. Louise was a few inches shorter and looked up into Nell’s eyes, waiting.

“Do you love this man?” she asked quietly.

“I do,” Louise’s voice had never sounded so certain.

“Does he love you?”

“I believe he does.”

Nell hugged Louise, “Tell him, from me, that if he hurts you, I will find him.” she said fiercely, though with a choked up feeling in her voice, “You have my blessing.”

Last edited by Lesley on Fri Aug 06, 2004 5:25 am; edited 1 time in total

 

#2023:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 11:37 pm

Aw, that left me all choked up.

 

#2024:  Author: Guest,  PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 11:37 pm

*sniffs* awwww! that was so lovely!

 

#2025:  Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 11:44 pm

*worries in case she breaks the topic again Embarassed*

That choked me up to. And that last line of Nell's was just wonderful.

More please?..... <inserts hopeful smiley>

JackieJ

 

#2026:  Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 11:45 pm

awh! Love H&N's parenting!

Am freely admitting I didn't twig to the W/Bill Scarlett and Marian thing at all...I've been catching up late at night mainly, so dopn't get these things.

Louise & Andrew are so sweet! Very Happy Lesley... you better not have a cliff involved for poor Louise!!! Evil or Very Mad Evil or Very Mad Evil or Very Mad

 

#2027:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 11:59 pm

Ciorstaidh wrote:
Louise & Andrew are so sweet! Very Happy Lesley... you better not have a cliff involved for poor Louise!!! Evil or Very Mad Evil or Very Mad Evil or Very Mad


Why do people suggest these things? They just give me ideas!

 

#2028:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Fri Aug 06, 2004 12:08 am

Lesley you are just so CLEVER. I am speechless.

And I had completely not twigged to why Bill was wearing a scarlet jumper - and as for Mary Ann(ersley) - !!! Where do you think of these things?!?!!

 

#2029:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Aug 06, 2004 12:14 am

Catherine_B wrote:
And I had completely not twigged to why Bill was wearing a scarlet jumper - and as for Mary Ann(ersley) - !!! Where do you think of these things?!?!!


In the shower or on the M25! Wink

 

#2030:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Fri Aug 06, 2004 8:12 am

Thank you Lesley! Kiss


Have to admit that my ideas usually come to me whilst I'm in the shower too! Must be something to do with relaxing and brain bobbing along by itself... Rolling Eyes

 

#2031:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Fri Aug 06, 2004 9:02 am

Lesley wrote:
Ciorstaidh wrote:
Louise & Andrew are so sweet! Very Happy Lesley... you better not have a cliff involved for poor Louise!!! Evil or Very Mad Evil or Very Mad Evil or Very Mad


Why do people suggest these things? They just give me ideas!


Come on Lesley!!!! You don't need suggestions from other people!!!! You come up with all the nasty ideas all by your ickle self!!!! Rolling Eyes Rolling Eyes Rolling Eyes

See you tonight!

 

#2032:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Fri Aug 06, 2004 9:27 am

Aww luffly. Do we get more tonight despite the SG? (hopeful smiley)

 

#2033:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Fri Aug 06, 2004 12:24 pm

Well, as Lesley said she was leaving at 11, I doubt there'll be any more until Sunday, but hopefully they'll be nice long posts...... (and possibly sneak previewed at the SG........*crosses fingers*)

 

#2034:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Fri Aug 06, 2004 12:40 pm

VIKKI! Stop rubbing it in! Evil or Very Mad

 

#2035:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster PostPosted: Fri Aug 06, 2004 4:27 pm

Phew! Have spent absolutely aaaaaaaaages catching up and I've been through far far too many emotional ups, downs and loop-da-loops whilst doing so. So I'll just say than you again Lesley for a fantastic story and I can't wait for even more! Very Happy

I think my eyes are going square Shocked

 

#2036:  Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sat Aug 07, 2004 1:42 pm

Pat wrote:
Lesley wrote:
Ciorstaidh wrote:
Louise & Andrew are so sweet! Very Happy Lesley... you better not have a cliff involved for poor Louise!!! Evil or Very Mad Evil or Very Mad Evil or Very Mad


Why do people suggest these things? They just give me ideas!


Come on Lesley!!!! You don't need suggestions from other people!!!! You come up with all the nasty ideas all by your ickle self!!!! Rolling Eyes Rolling Eyes Rolling Eyes

See you tonight!


Very much hope this has given Lesley ideas - then the story wil last for longer Smile

Also admit to being completely flummoxed by the Will Scarlet Jumper and Hilda Mary Ann thing - that was brilliant Lesley, although given how long it took to catch on to the significance of Rob's name it's probably no surprise.

 

#2037:  Author: Alex, Location: Home again PostPosted: Sun Aug 08, 2004 1:56 pm

Nasty mean SG!

*Not bitter that I couldn't go*

 

#2038:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Sun Aug 08, 2004 2:11 pm

Well I didn't mind the break as it finally meant I have caught up with this!

Lesley theres too many things to comment on individually, so I'll just say its all splendifurous!!

 

#2039:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Sun Aug 08, 2004 7:31 pm

What, no more?

You must have been home for a coupld of hours, so where is it?












































Wink Laughing

Last edited by Kat on Sun Aug 08, 2004 8:08 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#2040:  Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sun Aug 08, 2004 8:03 pm

Hmph. Thought there was more story.

 

#2041:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Sun Aug 08, 2004 8:04 pm

Apparently no posts exist for this topic, so i thought i'd make one Very Happy

Lesley, seeing as you've posted on every other drabble...could you post on yours now? Very Happy *pleading*

 

#2042:  Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London PostPosted: Sun Aug 08, 2004 8:27 pm

Oh, Lesley???

MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE

pwetty pwease???

 

#2043:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 12:24 am

Lesley, I have just spent quite a lot of the time you were all at SG catching up on this, I got behind when I went in holiday in June and decided to wait a while before catching up to avoid cfiffs.

It is as wonderful as usual. I did get the Robin Hood thing but far too late on in the story to pm you. Thank you so much for writing it. Looking forward to the the next installment now, though I mustn't get behind at this stage as I go on holiday on Friday for 2 weeks.

Last edited by Susan on Mon Aug 09, 2004 9:55 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#2044:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 1:35 am

applauds loudly that Aunty Sue has caught up.

hopes Lesley posts rarely throughout the rest of August or posts it ALL in the next 24 hours ...can't see it though!

 

#2045:  Author: Rosie, Location: Huntingdonshire PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 7:21 am

Well I'm hoping she'll post it all in...well the next 3 minutes would be good!!
PS: It is siling it down here right now! Argh!

 

#2046:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 7:32 am

Rosie wrote:
PS: It is siling it down here right now! Argh!


And here! Weather forecast says it will be in the NW?? Have they moved Huntingdonshire and Yorkshire overnight?

Perhaps Lesley won't be able to get to work? Wink

 

#2047:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 9:26 am

Oh wow - that was wonderful - Nell is magnificent and that last post choked me up!

 

#2048:  Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 11:48 am

"siling" ? (not up on East Anglian colloquialisms)

it's a steady curtain of rain here in London at the moment, and my housemate reckons it kept him awake last night, but I was obviously too tired to care - slept the whole way throguh for the first time in weeks! Very Happy

oh and Lesley?




























may we have the next bit, pwease?

 

#2049:  Author: Robin, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 1:31 pm

rain woke me up last night too so am sleepy sleepy today

could def do with some more RCS as a bit of a wake-up call...

 

#2050:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 2:04 pm

Lesley sweetie, its been 24 hrs now, are you still not recovered ? Wink

 

#2051:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 2:33 pm

And about 96 hours since the last bit of drabble *muffled sob*

Please, Lesley, could we have some more?

 

#2052:  Author: Cumbrian Rachel, Location: near High Wycombe PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 5:04 pm

*shocked that isn't any more!*


More please!!!

 

#2053:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 5:06 pm

Hmmmm! Just trying to remember how many people at the bedtime drabbles shouted Aye! when asked if I should be thrown over a cliff.......












































Oh yes, all of them! Twisted Evil

 

#2054:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 5:11 pm

*Looks incredibly innocent and wanders off whistling quietly to self*

Kiss

 

#2055:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 5:38 pm

But the majority of the board weren't there and would never threaten such a thing Rolling Eyes <---innocent smiley.

 

#2056:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 6:21 pm

Kat wrote:
*Looks incredibly innocent and wanders off whistling quietly to self*


*has violent choking fit*

 

#2057:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 6:24 pm

And what may I ask is the reason for that Gem?!

 

#2058:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 6:27 pm

Kat wrote:
And what may I ask is the reason for that Gem?!


Oh no reason at all, Kat, no reason at all. I'm just prone to choking at times...

 

#2059:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 6:44 pm

Lesley wrote:
Hmmmm! Just trying to remember how many people at the bedtime drabbles shouted Aye! when asked if I should be thrown over a cliff.......
Oh yes, all of them! Twisted Evil


I don't think I did

















I was too busy trying to photograph you at the time! Twisted Evil

 

#2060:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 6:50 pm

Did you succeed, Carolyn?

 

#2061:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 6:53 pm

Gem wrote:
Kat wrote:
And what may I ask is the reason for that Gem?!


Oh no reason at all, Kat, no reason at all. I'm just prone to choking at times...


You should be careful in that case Gem - you could end up having a nasty accident... and we wouldnt want that would we!!

 

#2062:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 7:00 pm

*squeaks*

*runs and hides*

Kat, has that always been your sig? 'Cos it's great! Where on earth did you come up with it?

*re-reads sig and worries*

 

#2063:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 7:03 pm

Awww, no need to hide from me! I'm lovely!! ( Twisted Evil )

Lol, sig is from a calender a friend gave to me as a christmas present - always makes me giggle!

 

#2064:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 7:15 pm

I know that, don't worry Kat! I've met you remember! Smile

You have to admit, it did sound rather ominous though - 'specially considering what thread we're in! *realises she's going to have to hide from Lesley now - decides Kat is an acceptable shield - sorry Kat!*

Are all the quotes that funny? 'cos if so, can you post them on Off-Topic or pm them to me, please? I'm desperately trying to find some FUNNY quotes for my msn - I keep getting told off 'cos they're depressing!

 

#2065:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 7:16 pm

Lesley wrote:
Hmmmm! Just trying to remember how many people at the bedtime drabbles shouted Aye! when asked if I should be thrown over a cliff.......



Oh yes, all of them! Twisted Evil


So does this mean we are never getting any more RCS, cause i have to tell you Lesley I don't believe that is the case......

Oh and I have some wonderful footage of you during the reading Lesley......... Twisted Evil

 

#2066:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 7:30 pm

Not sure if that's going to convince her to start posting again Kathye... unless you're attempting to bribe her, but you can't because that footage HAS to be posted on the Gathering site!

 

#2067:  Author: Cumbrian Rachel, Location: near High Wycombe PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 8:05 pm

*feels the lack of posting is rather harsh on those of us who weren't there and weren't involved!*


*hoping that Lesley relents soon!*

 

#2068:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 8:29 pm

Don't try to pretend you didn't enjoy every word of that drabble Lesley. I'm sure that I'm not the only one to have photographic evidence to the contrary. As for us all approving the clif business - well really!! What else did you expect?!! Twisted Evil Twisted Evil

 

#2069:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 8:32 pm

The lack of posting was because I hadn't written it!

Kathye I am resigned to any number of photographs of me being on the Gathering website! Not just from the reading, but the waterfight and sleeping. There are probably many others, especially as Vikki was taking a photograph every three seconds!! Laughing

England, Thursday 14th October
Next morning, fairly early, saw Hilda, Nell, Alison and Carol, up early packing the van. Louise and Andrew had left for Cambridge shortly after her conversation with Hilda and Nell. Louise had taken only enough items for an overnight stay, leaving the rest of her belongings to be packed into the van. The other four had received a text message a little after seven pm the evening before, stating that the couple had arrived safely and giving the name and address of the hotel in Cambridge. That evening Hilda, Nell and the girls had joined Rob at the Blue Boar; they had taken great pleasure in presenting him with the paper signed by Gisborn and his henchmen. Richard Leigh was quite overcome and insisted, this time, that their meals and drinks were on the house.

Leaving the Nottingham Centre Parcs lodge, they dropped the keys off at reception and settled their bill. Intending to travel first to Cambridge, to pick up Louise, and then on to the Airport hotel at Heathrow, Hilda and Nell planned to reach the motorways and the hotel at Heathrow before the main traffic build up for the rush hour home. They swung into Cambridge a little before midday, following directions they managed to find the small but exclusive hotel without difficulty and parked in the hotel car park.

“Pretty impressive hotel,” Nell remarked, “Even with the building work going on.” There was some scaffolding against the front of the hotel, and some restoration work being done.

“Expensive too,” mused Hilda, “I wonder who paid for it?”

The two women exchanged glances, both suddenly realising that Louise would be considered a very desirable match. Nell leant across to whisper softly, “We hadn’t thought of that before, Hilda. This Andrew isn’t just after her money, is he?”

Hilda shook her head thoughtfully, “I don’t think so,” she said eventually, “Though, of course, I’m no expert. After all, he was at Eton prior to Cambridge, that presupposes a certain amount of money.”

“Unless it was on a scholarship.” Nell replied, “Though I rather doubt that, I cannot see those other two, James and Harry, deigning to be friendly toward anyone attending Eton on a scholarship.” By this time the group had reached the main entrance, Alison and Carol, slightly ahead, opened the door and rushed in, at the reception desk they asked for a Miss Louise Chad and were directed to the hotel bar. Louise was sat in one corner, watching TV. When she saw the others she leapt up and ran across to them. The three all stood there exchanging hugs.

“Well you don’t look any different!” This from Alison.

“What, you think I’d have grown another head or something?” Louise demanded, even while blushing slightly.

“Possibly,” this from Carol, “I mean it’s something new after all.”

“Idiots, both of you!” Louise retorted, she saw Hilda and Nell at the doorway and moved across to greet them both.

“Everything alright, Louise?” Hilda asked softly, looking directly into the girl’s eyes.

“Everything’s fine, Hilda,” Louise said, smiling. She moved over to hug Nell,

“You’re not hurt or anything?” Nell looked slightly worried.

“He was a perfect gentleman.” Louise replied.

Hilda and Nell looked at each other, “Obviously means something totally different now, Nell!” Hilda remarked dryly.

Louise smiled while returning to her seat to pick up her bags, “Are we moving on straight away?” she asked.

Hilda nodded, “Yes, that way we should reach Heathrow before too big a build up of traffic. Have you anything to settle at the Reception desk?”

Louise shook her head, “No, Andrew paid for everything. He asked me to pass on his apologies, that he couldn’t be here. He’s got lectures this morning.”

They all moved out of the hotel, the three girls first, with Hilda and Nell walking side by side behind them. Suddenly, from above, there was the sound a bolt snapping and a shout of alarm. Hilda and Nell both looked up in alarm to see that part of the scaffolding was collapsing, directly on top of them. With an oath Nell reacted, pushing Hilda hard she propelled her out from beneath the collapse. Hilda, unable to stop herself, was thrust across the hotel car park before falling to the floor. Nell, however, was unable to get out of the way. The scaffolding, boards and equipment fell directly on top of her. There was a moment’s silence then, as the dust cleared, the three girls could see Nell Wilson on the floor. She lay there, still, grey and to all appearance, dead.

Hilda pulled herself upright and ran across to her friend, she grabbed hold of her shoulders and shook them, "God dammit Nell Wilson, I can look after myself. Of all the stupid, imbecilic things to do, that has got to be the worst! Don't you dare die on me! I've not even begun to tell you how ridiculous that action was. Wake up, then I can tell you just how dense, dull-witted, brainless and obtuse you really are!"

Nell Wilson slowly opened her eyes, she looked across at the girls and spoke, "She loves me really."

Last edited by Lesley on Wed Aug 11, 2004 6:10 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#2070:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 8:40 pm

VERY VERY VERY VERY grateful that Lesley did not chose to end this post two paragraphs earlier.

Thank you, Lesley!

*hopes that Nell is all right and wonders who on earth is trying to kill them NOW*

 

#2071:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 8:41 pm

Yay! Lesley. Wemight have known they couldn't walk across a hotel car park without an adventure!

*starts thinking of conspiracy theories*

*wibbles at the thought of Nell being really badly hurt*

*Promises never to throw Lesley off a cliff*

 

#2072:  Author: catherine, Location: York PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 8:42 pm

*groans*


Lesley haven't you damaged the pair enough without causing a whole load of scaffolding to fall on Nell??!!!


I suppose it was too much to expect they might have a peaceful journey home. Rolling Eyes

 

#2073:  Author: Lulie, Location: Middlesbrough PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 8:43 pm

*thanks Lesley that the wibbling can be stopped*

*echoes Catherines sentiments*

 

#2074:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 8:57 pm

Lesley!!!!!!!
That was mean!!!

I love Nell's line though!!

And by the way, I only took 245 pictures...................

 

#2075:  Author: Alex, Location: Home again PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 9:24 pm

ROTFL!

That was very irresponsible of Hilda to shake Nell - she might have had a spinal injury.

Glad the Gathering is over, I'll have to see if I can make it next time.

 

#2076:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 9:25 pm

Thank you Lesley!! You really love those two, don't you!!! Rolling Eyes Rolling Eyes

 

#2077:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 9:26 pm

Last post for the night - got to catch up on sleep again! I've been thinking seriously about my style, in the wake of Kat's drabble, and perhaps I do tend to use the cliff-hanger rather too often. I've decided therefore not to have anymore cliffs in the real chalet school. I can tell the story without having to resort to such.

There was a moment’s silence in which all three girls tried desperately to stop themselves from laughing out loud. Hilda looked across at Nell, still very pale, Nell winked at her friend, “Lost that calm demeanour of yours, Hilda?” she asked innocently.

Hilda swallowed slightly and took a breath, “And if I have, it’s your fault, Nell Wilson,” she replied, “Don’t do that to me again!”

Around the group there were suddenly any number of others, the shocked workmen that had been above the scaffolding had reached the ground.

“I saw what happened,” one of them said hoarsely, “One of the bolts snapped, it was a supporting bolt, when it went everything else went with it!”

Another workman appeared, “I’m a first aider,” he said quickly, “How’s your friend?” He looked toward Hilda and Nell.

Nell smiled slightly, “I feel OK,” she said, “I just can’t get this stuff off me. Think I’ve just got a few more bruises to add to my collection.” She smiled up at Hilda, knelt beside her, and reached out to grasp her hand.

The next few minutes those surrounding the accident site spent removing all the rubble, scaffold pipes and other debris covering Nell. Hilda remained knelt beside her, refusing to move even when the Paramedics arrived. Eventually all the rubble was removed and the Paramedics were busy checking for injuries and checking reflexes.

Nell looked up at Hilda, “Don’t look so worried,” she ordered, “I’m fine, just a bit shocked that’s all.” She smiled and Hilda returned the smile hesitantly, Nell continued, “As soon as they’ve taken off the bit of rubble that’s stopping me from moving my legs I’ll be up and we can continue to Heathrow.”

Hilda’s face didn’t change expression, though it took all of her legendary self control not to react. There was no rubble on Nell, it had all been completely cleared. She looked across at the paramedic currently checking out for injuries to Nell’s legs, he was speaking into a radio, asking the nearly Casualty department to prepare for a possible spinal injury.



NOT!!! Twisted Evil devil

 

#2078:  Author: Lulie, Location: Middlesbrough PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 9:28 pm

poke Lesley. I wonder how long you can keep to the "no cliffs" promise?

Have a good sleep

 

#2079:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 9:30 pm

Thank you so much for that ending.

I was worried when I read you introduction!

 

#2080:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 9:33 pm

Wonderful. I knew you couldn't manage without cliffs!!! You like our reactions too much!! Twisted Evil Rolling Eyes

 

#2081:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 9:39 pm

Gem wrote:
VERY VERY VERY VERY grateful that Lesley did not chose to end this post two paragraphs earlier.


I take it back. I'd prefer the "still, grey and to all appearances..." cliff to this one. At least I was sure you'd never actually kill Nell!!!!

*praying that it's just a temporary thing*

 

#2082:  Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 9:48 pm

I guess this means they're going to miss the plane, so yet more time for the Melbourne gang to get into trouble.

*claps hand over mouth*

I didn't say that Embarassed

*wanders over to Retribution to see if Lesley's fallen off the cliff again*

JackieJ

 

#2083:  Author: Alex, Location: Home again PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 10:00 pm

See, spinal injuries....


ETA Rarely do I even vaguely guess what's coming so felt the need to point that one out.

 

#2084:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 10:07 pm

Lesley you cannot exist without cliffs and nor can we really.

Might have guessed they would have more adventures on way to airport.

 

#2085:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 10:40 pm

Dam*it Lesley, from what I hear (and read) these people deserve never to have a cliff again.

..........Anyway, who's responsible then??

 

#2086:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 11:06 pm

*happy sigh*

A life where RCS didn't have cliffs would not be worth living.

Kiss

Hilda's legendary self control, indeed...

 

#2087:  Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans PostPosted: Mon Aug 09, 2004 11:17 pm

*wibbles quietly to herself*

As soon as I saw the no cliffs promise I was expecting the worst, though Catherine's right, RCS without cliffs just wouldn't be right Very Happy

 

#2088:  Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Tue Aug 10, 2004 12:35 am

Sarah_K wrote:
As soon as I saw the no cliffs promise I was expecting the worst,


Me too - but I still managed to land with a resoundin "thud" at the bottom!

And Lesley - sleep is for wimps! Please come back and tell us that Nell is OK!

 

#2089:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Tue Aug 10, 2004 1:26 am

LESLEY ANN GREEN!!!!!!!

Does Rachael know what you've done to Nell??? Cos' if not, I wouldn't like to be you when she DOES find out..........

 

#2090:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Tue Aug 10, 2004 2:39 am

LESLEY!!!!!

After 2 1/2 weeks away it's taken me half the night to catch up on the last 25 pages. Admittedly they've been fabulous with some really good awwww moments, only to read your last entry and find myself at the bottom of a very large cliff. Evil or Very Mad



Please can we get this resolved very soon for the sake of my mental health

 

#2091:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Aug 10, 2004 8:12 am

*lands on a heap of wibbling CBBers*

Lesley! You've done it again Shocked

 

#2092:  Author: Nicole, Location: New Zealand PostPosted: Tue Aug 10, 2004 8:25 am

*manages to catch fingernails on the edge of the cliff just before it's too late to avoid the plunge*

Lesley!! I mean to say, how mean can you be to Nell and Hilda!!!

On second thoughts, I'm not sure I want to know the answer to that one.

*Joins the wibbling brigade of CBBers*

 

#2093:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Tue Aug 10, 2004 9:42 am

Vikki wrote:
LESLEY ANN GREEN!!!!!!!

Does Rachael know what you've done to Nell??? Cos' if not, I wouldn't like to be you when she DOES find out..........


Rachael did not know what Lesley intended for Nell!!
bawling bawling bawling bawling bawling

I can only assume this is my penance for such a woeful performance in the RCS quiz ... Rolling Eyes

*hopes for the best*
*retreats to use e-mail ...*

 

#2094:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Tue Aug 10, 2004 3:40 pm

bawling bawling bawling bawling bawling

I didnt mean that at all Lesley!!!! Love the cliffs - but only when you rescue us straight away and dont leave us at the bottom for ages!!

 

#2095:  Author: Robin, Location: London, England PostPosted: Tue Aug 10, 2004 4:56 pm

just as I thought all the loose ends of this were being well and truly tied it's back onto the roller-coaster

 

#2096:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Tue Aug 10, 2004 5:13 pm

You have to remember to never count your chickens where Lesley's stories are concerned!!! She might always have another little nasty upher sleeve!

 

#2097:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Tue Aug 10, 2004 5:49 pm

Crying or Very sad

I have to babysit tonight... if there are updates I won't get them until tomorrow, unless Lesley posts before 7.30.

Lesley!!!!! Crying or Very sad Please come and rescue us from this cliff!

 

#2098:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Tue Aug 10, 2004 7:54 pm

Hilda continued talking to Nell, not allowing her to see the turmoil within. She watched surreptitiously as the paramedics continued their examination. They then placed a stiff collar around Nell’s neck.

“This is really not necessary,” Nell said, a touch impatiently, “I’m fine, and we’ve got to get to Heathrow tonight, we’ve got a plane to catch tomorrow.”

“Hilda?”

Hilda looked over at her friend and forced her voice to remain calm, “Nell, stay calm and do what they tell you! You need to be checked out properly and they can only do that at hospital.”

Nell grimaced at her friend but subsided, muttering. Her words floated across, “Lot of fuss about nothing! If they’d let me up we could be on our way!”

One of the paramedics touched Hilda on the arm and indicated that she should follow her, a short distance away she spoke, “We will be taking Miss Wilson to Addenbrookes Hospital, she will need to be examined.”

“I’m next of kin, are you able to tell me any more?” Hilda’s eyes bore into the woman.

“There are currently no spinal reflexes below your friend’s waist.” The woman said softly, “That is any reflex that requires that information travels to and from the brain. The reflexes that do not require the brain’s input are working, though somewhat exaggerated.”

“What does this mean?” Hilda asked softly, knowing full well what it meant.

“It’s too early to tell, yet,” the paramedic said quietly, “But there is a strong possibility of spinal damage. That’s why we’re being so careful with moving your friend, if she has fractured a vertebra then the slightest movement could be enough to severe the spine.”

“Hilda!”

Hilda Annersley stood there in shock, her face drained of all colour, as she remembered her own actions on first reaching Nell, she had shaken her by the shoulders…could she have…?

There was a sound behind her and Hilda turned to see the three girls standing there, looking very anxious. She composed her features and smiled slightly at them, “They are taking Nell to hospital,” she said clearly, “We’ll follow on behind in the van, be there for when she has been seen by the doctors.”

Accepting this Alison, Louise and Carol nodded and moved across to first speak to Nell before going back to the van. Hilda stood still for a time, her mind dwelling on her own actions, then, with a swallow, she turned and walked over to her friend. Kneeling beside her, Hilda saw that Nell was now strapped to a spinal board and the paramedics were preparing to move her to the ambulance. Nell’s face brightened when she saw Hilda,

“Hilda!”

“Glad you’re here, Hilda,” she said, a little shakily, “What with all the fuss these pair are making, and with the knowledge I’ve picked up from First Aid, I’ve started to get worried.”

“You’ve nothing to be worried about, Nell.” Hilda’s voice projected sincerity and Nell relaxed, then suddenly a frown crossed her face.

“Hilda,” she said quietly, “I know you, you can say day is night and everyone, myself included, will believe you. Please tell me the truth.”

There was silence for a time, then, “They think you might have a spinal injury, Nell.”

Nell said nothing for some time, though her face went white, eventually she took a deep breath and looked across at Hilda, “I’ll insist on a rocket powered wheelchair, you know. Don’t think it’ll stop me.”

Hilda took hold of Nell’s hand, “Of course it won’t.”

Last edited by Lesley on Tue Aug 10, 2004 8:14 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#2099:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Aug 10, 2004 8:05 pm

This just gets better, each time you manage to top what you've done before.

Hilda and Nell are...words fail me Lesley.

Crying or Very sad

 

#2100:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Tue Aug 10, 2004 8:23 pm

Lesley!!! Please let Nell be okay! After all, THINK of the guilt poor Hilda will feel if Nell is left paralysed..............




Oh, and do we get to know what Rachael said in her e-mail? Wink

 

#2101:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Tue Aug 10, 2004 8:33 pm

From what I can remember it was



WWWWHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!

 

#2102:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Tue Aug 10, 2004 8:47 pm

LOL!!!
Thanks for sharing!!! Wish I could have seen Rachael's face.....

 

#2103:  Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Tue Aug 10, 2004 10:39 pm

Yikes! I certainly didn't see that coming. Lesley, I'm so glad you didn't carry out your threat to banish the cliffs - I love them, but, Nell is going to be ok, isn't she?

 

#2104:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Tue Aug 10, 2004 10:41 pm

Lesley, Lesley - you wouldn't really have made Hilda paralyse Nell, would you?

I can't believe you'd do that to your favourite character.






No, I can't. tongue

 

#2105:  Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Tue Aug 10, 2004 11:30 pm

*Still wibbling about Nell*
*Remembers the nice doctors at Addenbrookes saved her little sister's life last December and feels a bit better*
*Hopes Addenbrookes is as good in RCS as it is in RL*

 

#2106:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 5:09 am

Quote:
WWWWHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!

*agrees with Rachael*

 

#2107:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 8:08 am

*wibbles*

That was such a lovely update, Lesley - Hilda and Nell are just so sweet!

(But am also agreeing with Rachael and Kathy_S)

 

#2108:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 11:36 am

Have finally caught up with this....from page 91! So glad your RCS quiz only had one question after that point!!! Laughing

All I can say is wow! That was and is wonderful, such a roller-coaster of emotions. I might have known Hilda, Nell and the girls couldn't get back to Melbourne that easily. Am desperately hoping that Nell's spinal injury isn't going to be permanent but also imaging the havoc she could casue with a wheelchair!

 

#2109:  Author: Robin, Location: London, England PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 11:47 am

is there not someone around whose singing powers will miraculously heal bones..
or can the power of music only cause fevers to pass?

 

#2110:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 12:14 pm

I think Rachael said it all- Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!

 

#2111:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 6:07 pm

Melbourne Wednesday 13th October

Madge had been in her office most of the morning. Real Chalet School Industries had developed so much over the past year or so, that she had felt justified in hiring office space in one of the more prestigious office blocks in the business sector of Melbourne. The offices housed herself as Chairman and a number of others. A number of others had offices here, Joey shared an office with Rachel MacDonald, solely for the monitoring of all the chalet school adoptees, and Robin had an office from where she searched the globe for evidence for chalet school characters that had transferred across to the real world.

Robin was somewhat different to her persona when in the chalet school, oh she still retained her deep, abiding faith, but she had also taken to the modern world with a vengeance. Of all the characters, she probably had the greatest computer skills, since transferring to the real world nearly two years before; she had worked hard at becoming an expert. In addition, the removal of any risk that she might develop TB had brought out a far more adventurous and confident side to her nature. Madge was certain that she would, eventually, discover Cornelia Flower, despite there being no clue as to her whereabouts.

Madge pulled another pile of correspondence toward her, Real Chalet School Industries had originally consisted purely of the School, hence the reason why all the directors were associated with the School. They had then added the Hospital and Madge had expected that the company would remain small, however the School and Hospital were both a resounding success and Madge had found herself with excess funds. She had quickly started to invest in other companies and, when one of those companies applied to her for funds, to stop it collapsing, she had arranged for it to be brought into the fold.

Madge Russell was very grateful that Hilda and Nell were so capable; during the second term of 2004 she had been at the School less than half the time, instead spending all her time in business. Resigning as Head in July and passing the reins to Hilda and Nell was really only making formal a situation that had been fact since Easter. The company was a public one now, and Madge had ensured that both Hilda and Nell had sufficient shares that they would always be the majority shareholders and therefore two of the four permanent Directors. She had also called for Hilda to be made Vice-Chairman, (she refused to use ‘PC’ titles!), and therefore able to speak for the Board in Madge’s absence.

In the last three months, able to concentrate fully on the build-up of the business, she had expanded the parameters further. Now CS Industries was aiming toward any ‘service’ type company, looking at schools, hospitals and fitness clubs and even expanding into the entertainment industries by way of theme parks and wilderness centres. Madge had never been happier.

A call from her PA told her that someone was asking to see her, they didn’t have an appointment, however Madge had no problem with seeing them. The door opened to admit an elderly woman and a man in his fifties. It was Irene and Martin Jackson.

 

#2112:  Author: Lulie, Location: Middlesbrough PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 6:20 pm

*settles onto cliff edge with a vast supply of pimms, doritos and garlic dip*

Come and share everybody!

 

#2113:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 6:37 pm

*comes in with chocolate and settles down beside Lulie*

Something tells me that we're going to be here for a looooonnnnngggg time...

 

#2114:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 6:45 pm

*Armwrestles Alan for the wine. Mutual agreement to open another bottle. Healthy tea of Chorizo, cheese, salad - oh, and wine Wink

Any one want to join me for the vigil?*

BTW, Lesley, I love the way Madge has turned into a high powered business woman but kept her ethics and I applaud Robin!

 

#2115:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 6:47 pm

*perches gingerly on cliff edge....*

Oh, and Lesley, de-ear... was it WISE to put Tinkerbell in charge of those defenceless children? Wink

 

#2116:  Author: Alex, Location: Home again PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 7:03 pm

Ruth B wrote:
*Hopes Addenbrookes is as good in RCS as it is in RL*


*Decides this isn't the time to point out that said hospital was recently slated for MRSA and lost one of its stars ----> hopes it's better than RL.*

 

#2117:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 7:53 pm

Vikki wrote:
*perches gingerly on cliff edge....*

Oh, and Lesley, de-ear... was it WISE to put Tinkerbell in charge of those defenceless children? Wink


Don't you mean Maleficent, Vikki? Twisted Evil Twisted Evil Twisted Evil

 

#2118:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 8:08 pm

LOL at Auntie Pat!!!

*sits down to await the reaction from our beloved fairy!*

 

#2119:  Author: Cumbrian Rachel, Location: near High Wycombe PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 8:35 pm

*breathing sigh of relief over the return of the cliffs!*


Of course, that doesn't mean I don't want them resolving! More soon please Lesley!!!

 

#2120:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 9:30 pm

On seeing the two Madge stiffened slightly, though she remained in her seat. Irene Jackson smiled,

“Please, Mrs Russell, do not concern yourself.” She said, “We are here to make a proposal, nothing more. I promise that Martin has no further wish to try and act like a local crime lord!”

Martin Jackson smiled, somewhat ruefully, and then spoke, “Believe me, Mrs Russell, we are here only to conduct business.”

Madge nodded, regaining her composure, and indicated that the two should sit down. Once they were settled she sat back in her chair,

“I had thought that we would not see you again, Mrs Jackson,” she began, “After the events of last weekend, I would not have thought our paths would cross.”

“It is precisely because of the events last weekend that we decided to visit,” Irene Jackson replied, she paused for a moment thinking of how to phrase the next part, “I am not, in any way, offering you a bribe, Mrs Russell,” she said softly, “I have too much respect for your integrity. And I know that you meant what you said, when you told me that you would say nothing about my grandfather’s death.”

Madge looked intrigued despite herself, “If you are not offering a bribe, Mrs Jackson,” she said slowly, “May I ask exactly what you are doing?”…

“A scholarship?” It was some hours later and Madge had travelled over to the Real Chalet School. She was currently sat, along with Ruth, Rosalind, Nancy and Kathie, in Hilda’s Study. Ruth, sat in Hilda’s chair, had just spoken.

“That’s what she said,” replied Madge, “Not just one, either, she’s prepared to fund ten scholarships, all inclusive, everything from normal fees and travel, to uniforms and cost of extra activities.”

“Pretty impressive,” this from Nancy, “What did you say, Madge?”

“Well I said I would have to discuss it with Hilda and Nell,” Madge responded, “They have the casting votes when it comes to pupils for the school, but I cannot foresee any problems.”

“What about the fact that they are from Germany, will that be a problem?” Kathie asked.

Rosalind frowned slightly, “I wouldn’t have thought so,” she said, “I mean we still have an extremely good reputation when it comes to languages, even though, since the move, we have stopped having all lessons trilingually.”

“Perhaps this could be the spur to reintroduce that aspect,” mused Ruth, “After all, with ten German students it’ll mean that, for once, the new girls will not have difficulty speaking German!”

“Logistically it won’t be a major problem,” Kathie said, “I mean we have School flights from Heathrow for the beginning and end of each term, they’d just have to get a connecting flight there.”

“Irene Jackson wanted the scholarships to be for girls from Germany in memory of her grandfather.” Madge said softly, “I think it’s an excellent idea. I thought you would be interested, you are likely to see Hilda and Nell before I do, you can broach the subject.”

Last edited by Lesley on Sun Aug 15, 2004 8:05 am; edited 2 times in total

 

#2121:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 9:35 pm

Sounds great!

Why do I get the feeling that there's something more to this though?

 

#2122:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 9:46 pm

Answer to that question Gem, is "because it's Lesley"........ Wink













MORE!!!!!!!

 

#2123:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 10:48 pm

How right, Vikki!

I'm still waiting for Lesley to suddenly come up with the link that ties all these adventures together and then we have a great head slapping session saying "Of Course, why didn't I see it sooner!"

then again I'm probably wrong (again)

*Still rather concerned about Nell*

 

#2124:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 10:48 pm

Thursday 14th October

“You realise that we’ve got nothing to do today?” Ruth said to the other three when they were all sat in the Head’s Study, first thing on Thursday morning.

The others looked across at her askance.

“Nothing to do?” Nancy said, “I don’t call arranging for a party tonight nothing to do!”

“Not that, idiot!” Ruth said lazily, “I meant nothing for the School, this is the first day.”

The others all thought for a moment, “Why you’re right,” Rosalind said eventually, “Even the nature park is finished for now, they’ve got new people coming in for the next stages, but not for a couple of weeks.”

“And the building work requires no more supervision, it’s slowly getting there.” This from Kathie.

“Exactly,” Ruth replied, “It’s taken two and a half weeks to get everything sorted. I never realised just how much Hilda and Nell take on outside normal School hours. They were planning to do this between just the two of them!”

“Well they’ll not have to in the future,” Nancy observed, “We can help out. Now, about tonight, hadn’t we better get organised? I’m willing to go on the supermarket run, but we need to sort out exactly what is needed!”

“Of course we would have a couple more days for this, if a certain person wasn’t going away!” Kathie said, a sly look toward Rosalind. To her delight Rosalind blushed,

“I said you should go ahead on Saturday,” she protested, “Geoff and I would have understood!”

“Rubbish!” Ruth returned, “How can the four of us host a party, inviting all the nearby Staff and CS characters, plus new friends, if one quarter of our gang isn’t here? It wouldn’t be the same without you Ros, and we’d miss that Major of yours too!”

“Oh he’s not a Major!” Rosalind’s reply came as something of a surprise, she glanced at the three shocked faces and laughed. “He had notification last night, his promotion to Lieutenant Colonel has come through! He’ll be getting his orders through any day now.”

The other three looked a little worried, “That won’t mean he’ll have to leave soon, will it?” Nancy asked.

Ros shook her head, “Not until at least Half Term,” she said, “That’s when it’s projected that Kelly will return to school.”

“Well that’s something,” Ruth said, “But it’s not getting this party sorted out! Come on people, we’ve got to make a list of things we need!”…

The party that night was a resounding success, not warm enough to have the party outside, the four had converted the School Hall into a comfortable venue. With help from Jeanne de Lachennais and Karen, who had returned from her own holiday early, they had provided an extremely alcoholic punch, and buffet. Karen even managing to obtain ingredients for some of her special Austrian dishes. The School sound system was used, and Madge prevailed upon to act as DJ once more. When the party finally broke up it was after two in the morning. Those people who had driven to the School, now found that a taxi was waiting to take them home, John Coates, who with his wife Sara had been guests, having arranged this as soon as he had entered the Hall and seen just how much alcohol was being consumed!

Jem and Madge Russell were dropped off home around 3am, both of them a little the worse for alcohol, and both resolving not to go in to work the next day. They had been in bed less than an hour when the telephone rang. With an oath Jem leant across to answer it, he nudged Madge,

“For you, dear,” he said, “Calling from England.”

Madge reached for the phone, “England? But they’re ten hours or so behind us, they must realise it’s four in the morning here!”

“Probably important then.” Jem said thickly, trying to block the sound of Madge taking the call.

 

#2125:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 10:55 pm

Poor Madge, getting a call like that at 4.00 am after a party.

thanks Lesley. that came just in time for me!

 

#2126:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 11:07 pm

Lesley, I'm sure all this Australian stuff is fearfully interesting, but don't you know that WE ALL WANT TO KNOW HOW NELL IS!!!!!?

 

#2127:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 11:13 pm

Catherine_B wrote:
Lesley, I'm sure all this Australian stuff is fearfully interesting, but don't you know that WE ALL WANT TO KNOW HOW NELL IS!!!!!?


Do you really? But I'm just going to bed now - (Yawn!!!) - and anyway - I'd have thought that a call from England to Madge at 4am Melbourne time - equivalent to 6pm BST might be a little clue! Twisted Evil

 

#2128:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 11:16 pm

Lesley, did we give you permission to go to bed? I believe not!!!! Evil or Very Mad

 

#2129:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 11:37 pm

Well, I'm assuming something's not very right if they're waking Madge & Jem up at 4am - but I want to know WHAT exactly! Twisted Evil

 

#2130:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Wed Aug 11, 2004 11:52 pm

Oh well at least we will get some news! The punch sounds great, is there any left?? Thanks Lesley Very Happy

 

#2131:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 12:20 am

Thank you Lesley just the time to get bad news at 4:00am after a party!!

Having spent most of last weekend catching up I am now away for 2 weeks! Ah well more to catch up with when I get back.

 

#2132:  Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 12:29 am

*Determined not to make the same mistake as last night, creeps very slowly towards the edge of the cliff*

*has spare wine, if Patmac's has run out*

*thinks Lesley should take some pro plus and come back and tell us how Nell is*

 

#2133:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 12:33 am

Of course, what we really want is: MORE!!!!!!!

 

#2134:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 1:06 am

This appears to have migrated to "what i really want" - now i know that I really do want more of this but...........
Confused

 

#2135:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 1:15 am

That's odd! I KNOW it was in C&D when I posted on it earlier......
*scratches head in perplexity*

 

#2136:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 6:12 am

Vikki, move this back to C & D please - I'll not post any more story until it's back there.

 

#2137:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 7:20 am

Wails .....and I thought this was more story, now I won't get any more until Sunday Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad

 

#2138:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 9:57 am

I have posted a sign post over in C&D after a lot of scared CBB's didnt find the move, will also see if I can move it back

Kathye

 

#2139:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 10:23 am

Was very confused to find this here...

Poor madge I wouldn't want that phone call!

 

#2140:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 10:32 am

I think it's a sign, Lesley - what we really want is MORE!!!!!!

Very very worried!

 

#2141:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 10:37 am

Posting to take it onto page 108, as it keeps telling me there are no posts

 

#2142:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 11:12 am

It's been doing that for a while Kathye - thanks for moving it back, if it was you!

 

#2143:  Author: Kathye, Location: Laleham PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 11:16 am

Yes I have moved it back into C&D and will be having words with someone I'm sure !!

 

#2144:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 11:21 am

Thank you kathye!

 

#2145:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 2:18 pm

Sorry guys! I just thought that it fitted better in "What I really want", cos it IS what we all really want.. Embarassed

 

#2146:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 3:43 pm

Really, Vikki!

May we have some more btw please Lesley? *Looks superangelic*

 

#2147:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 4:22 pm

Was a good idea Vikki!!! Made for something different on the board, anyway *g* Not sure what Lesley'll have to say to you though!

Sorry, Kat, but I think following Retribution, you've kind of lost the "superangelic" angle Very Happy

Lesley! Can we have some more please? And, as much as I like the Melbourne updates - I mean an update that tells us how Nell is!!!!

*certain that Lesley is going to drag it out for another two updates at least*

 

#2148:  Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 5:17 pm

*making incoherent noises* Lesleeeeeeey! Did I read that right? Did someone say tehre ain't gonna be any more until Sunday?! *wails*

 

#2149:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 5:24 pm

No Lisa, you didn't read it correctly! There will be more once I've finished writing it! Have had to surf the Net for some info!

 

#2150:  Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 5:26 pm

You've no idea how glad i am to hear that. I managed to sort of skim the most recent posts yesterday at Gatwick, but then my money ran out just as I was trying to find out what had become of Nell.... Shocked

 

#2151:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 5:52 pm

England, Thursday 14th October

The journey to the hospital was made agonisingly slowly, the driver taking care that his patient was not jerked or moved in any way. Hilda drove behind the ambulance with the three girls. None of the three were licensed to drive, and, in any case, the paramedic had refused permission for anyone to travel with Nell. He seemed rather nonplussed that Hilda had actually told Nell about the possible extent of her injuries, but admitted to himself that, so far, she seemed to be coping well.

Once in the hospital Nell was whisked into casualty and Hilda and the others, following directly behind, heard that the neurosurgeon was being bleeped for an emergency in A & E. They were guided to the reception desk where a young woman asked all sorts of details about Nell. Hilda answered almost mechanically, filling in the necessary forms. Once complete she asked if she could see Nell, but was told she was still being examined. Instead they were shown into a small room, the room was fairly comfortable, it had decent seating and even a coffee machine in one corner. Hilda also noticed that there were at least three posters advertising grief counselling.

Alison, Louise and Carol sat in one corner, softly chatting, staring every so often at the door, as though willing it to open. Hilda, unable to settle, stood next to a window. The window only opened onto the main Casualty corridor. It had blinds drawn but Hilda pulled them back slightly, so that she could watch the activity. Her gaze was drawn to the Ambulance bays, where there seemed to be a great deal of activity. Even as she watched, she heard a tannoy ask that the Orthopaedic Consultant attend in casualty, for consultation with the Neurosurgeon.

Eventually, after a wait of almost two hours, a man appeared at the door and introduced himself as the Neurosurgeon, Mark Burgess. Hilda introduced herself and the three girls.

“How is Nell?” Hilda asked quietly.

The surgeon looked across at Miss Annersley, his eyes flickering toward the three girls, now all standing in one corner. Hilda saw his glance,

“They also have a right to know, Mr Burgess,” Hilda said softly, “They are all strong enough.”

Burgess swallowed slightly, “Miss Wilson is currently having a second lot of X-rays taken,” he began, “The first pictures confirmed that she had sustained fractures to her T11 and T12 vertebrae, that is the eleventh and twelfth thoracic vertebrae, about here.” He indicated a point on his own back at the base of the rib cage. “The X-rays also appear to show that the spinal cord itself has been compromised. At present the reflexes in the legs would confirm this.”

“Is this a permanent state, Mr Burgess?” Hilda asked quickly.

“Preliminary indications are that it is.” Burgess replied quietly. There was a pause then he continued, “Your friend will require surgery, to stabilise the fracture site, steroid injections to reduce the swelling and prevent further spinal cord damage and, for at least the next few weeks, almost total immobilisation on a spinal bed to allow healing to occur and spinal shock to subside. I will be operating this evening, about six pm.”

“Thank you doctor,” Hilda replied, “Have you told Nell this?”

Burgess nodded, “Yes, she’s a strong lady. But she will need your support.”

“She has it, doctor.” Hilda said firmly, “May we see her?”

“She’s in X-ray at the moment, afterwards she’ll be taken to the ward, I’ll send word to them to expect you.”

 

#2152:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 5:57 pm

Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad

Words cannot express what a wonderful post that was, Lesley. But, oh, how could you?

*praying that Hilda's shaking did not worsen Nell's condition in any way as she wouldn't be able to live with the guilt*

Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad

 

#2153:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 6:27 pm

Thank you Lesley. We did ask for an update, didn't we. Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad

 

#2154:  Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 7:23 pm

Sad
Nell is strong to be able to cope with news like that, as are Hilda and the girls but this is not going to be easy. Especially not with them all in England, Nell's not going to be able to go back is she!

Crying or Very sad

 

#2155:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 7:30 pm

But not this kind of an update. Crying or Very sad

 

#2156:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 7:48 pm

You must be suffering agonies writing this Lesley. You put yourself through it as much as your characters, don't you!!!
It's times like this that I almost wish your writing wan't so powerful!

 

#2157:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 8:23 pm

Surgery had gone well; at least Mr Burgess, when he’d appeared some hours later, had informed both Nell and Hilda, that the injury had been stabilised. Hilda had taken the opportunity to contact Madge in Melbourne to inform her of the accident. She had also cancelled the flights back to Australia, for the foreseeable future. Her attempt to persuade Alison, Louise and Carol to return had been met with outright refusal, all three of the girls determined to remain with their two Guardians.

When she realised that the girls were serious, Hilda had relented, knowing that their presence would also be beneficial for Nell. They had checked into a nearby hotel, not the one where the accident had occurred - none of them could face returning there - and took it in turns to be with Nell. Over the next few days they had kept vigil as Nell had recovered from the anaesthetic, and spoken with her about plans for the future. Nell Wilson was a strong woman, she was also someone that could make the best of any situation. Whenever the girls visited she was able to show these qualities, talking about what was going to happen after her rehabilitation. About her return to Melbourne, return to teaching, indeed, most of the time she was responsible for reassuring the three girls.

Nell was only human, however. When Hilda visited alone, on those occasions, she was not quite so positive, then she needed Hilda’s strength while she cried out her frustrations. One evening, some four or five days after the accident, Hilda was there with Nell when she had broken down, sat with her until she had recovered, wiped away the tears. When the storm had passed Nell had smiled slightly,

“What would I do without you,” she said softly, smiling across at her partner. She had then closed her eyes, intending to sleep.

“Wake up, Hilda!”

Hilda had moved across to the window, and stared blankly outside, Nell had her own room and the view outside was pleasant, but Nell’s words were churning up inside Hilda. She had never forgotten the events of the day, never forgotten the possibility of her actions. It was time she told Nell. She moved over to the bed once more.

“Nell,” Hilda said urgently, “Nell, please wake up, I must speak with you.”

Nell Wilson slowly opened her eyes, held in one position by the spinal bed, she couldn’t move her head, only her eyes. “I thought you said I should get some rest,” she said smiling, then, taking in Hilda’s expression she became serious again. “What is it, what’s wrong?”

Hilda sat beside the bed and took her friend’s hand, “Nell, I have to tell you something, something terrible. After the scaffolding fell, you’d pushed me out of the way, do you remember?”

“I remember, you’d have been far too slow!”

Hilda nodded, “When I got up, and saw you there, you looked dead, after all that happened in Scotland, I couldn’t bear it. I ran over, shaking you, willing you to live.”

Nell slowly blinked her eyes, the closest she could come to a nod, “I remember,” she said, “I awoke to find you calling me all the names under the sun! Pretty funny!” She grinned slightly.

Hilda didn’t respond to her friend’s grin, “Don’t you see, Nell?” she said very quietly, “I shook you, hard. The one thing above all else that you don’t do to someone with a spinal injury is move them.” Hilda’s blue-grey eyes matched her friend’s grey ones and she was crying silently. “It’s my fault that you can’t walk. I paralysed you!”

There was a deathly hush as Nell took in the information, staring up at the ceiling, slowly she looked across at Hilda once more, then removed her hand from Hilda’s grasp. She reached up and gently brushed Hilda’s tears away,

“You silly woman,” she said gruffly, “As if that mattered. You probably had nothing to do with what happened to me. I expect the damage was already done.”

“But suppose it was the reason?” Hilda’s voice was subdued.

“Even then it doesn’t matter.” Nell was adamant, “At last count, you have been responsible for saving my life on at least four occasions. I still owe you.”

Last edited by Lesley on Sun Aug 15, 2004 8:18 am; edited 1 time in total

 

#2158:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 8:32 pm

poor Hilda!
lovely Nell!

 

#2159:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 8:33 pm

Lesley, I don't know how you manage to do it. This is so powetrful and so emotive, you must be suffering as well.

Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad
Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad
Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad
Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad
Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad

 

#2160:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 8:34 pm

*sobs*


They are SO lovely together!!!!
PLEASE let Nell be okay!!!

 

#2161:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 8:40 pm

I've been hovering on the board, refreshing every now and then, waiting for this episode. I guessed it would have to come as Hilda is too honest to not admit what happened. Poor Hilda.

VERY powerful, Lesley and very moving. As others have said it must have cost you to write this as we know you love the characters as much as we do. Thank you for a very strong story that has us on the edge of our seats.

 

#2162:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 10:08 pm

Wonderful Lesley, you just keep making their relationship deeper and deeper. Thank you Very Happy

 

#2163:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 10:12 pm

“Hilda!”

“Come on, Hilda, wake up!”

“Open your eyes, Hilda!”

“Dammit Hilda will you wake up?” The well-know voice suddenly penetrated and Hilda opened her eyes. For some moments she looked around her in complete confusion, she was laying on the ground, a concrete driveway, beside a wall. In front of her Alison, Louise and Carol were crouched down, looking intently into her face. She wasn’t laying flat however, her head and shoulders were supported behind her by someone, their arms around her.

“Finally!” The voice held equal portions of relief and exasperation, “Thought you were going to stay out for the duration, Hilda!”

Hilda twisted round in shock, the voice was Nell’s! She looked up into Nell’s face, noting as she did that Nell was kneeling up on the floor, supporting her.

“N-N-Nell?” Hilda’s voice quivered, “But you’re hurt, in hospital, the scaffolding fell on you…”

“Hell no, Hilda!” Nell laughed, “After I shoved you out of the way, I legged it out myself. The scaffolding didn’t touch me.” Nell’s face took on a somewhat sheepish look and she continued, “I’m sorry Hilda, I must have pushed you too far. You hit your head on the wall here. It knocked you out.”

Hilda slowly sat up, she reached up to softly finger a lump on her head and winced.

“Sorry about that, Hilda,” Nell said quickly, “I just keep on hitting you, don’t I?” She stood up, unaware that Hilda was watching that simple movement with a lump in her throat.

Hilda looked at her watch, the time read barely one pm, the date October 14th. She swallowed slightly, “I had such a life-like dream,” she said wonderingly, “It felt so real.”

Nell reached down to haul her friend to her feet, “Not your nightmares again, Hilda?” she asked, worried.

Hilda shook her head, “No, Nell, something far worse,” she said firmly, she refused to be drawn further, instead allowing Nell to guide her over to a bench nearby.

“The Paramedics are here, they were here only a minute after the scaffolding fell - on their way back from another call, apparently,” Alison said, “They are looking after the two workmen hurt when the scaffolding fell. They said they'd be back here soon to check you out.”

“Nell told them she knew first aid so could keep an eye on you,” Carol continued, “Especially as you were not deeply unconscious.”

“How long was I out?” Hilda asked, gratefully taking a bottle of water from Louise and drinking deeply.

“’Bout three minutes,” Nell replied, “Why, did it feel like longer?”

“You have no idea!” Hilda said fervently.



Mount Everest itself isn't a high enough cliff from which you lot can throw me! Hope you've all enjoyed the last few days posts! Mr. Green devil

Last edited by Lesley on Sat Sep 04, 2004 2:13 pm; edited 2 times in total

 

#2164:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 10:15 pm

Clever Lesley but I wouldn't have missed out on those posts for all the world!

So, who did phone Madge???

 

#2165:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 10:16 pm

Lol Lesley!!! You and cliffs!!! Rolling Eyes

 

#2166:  Author: Beth, Location: Sunny Isle of Man! PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 10:16 pm

Shocked

It's okay Lesley, I didn't need that heart anyway...especially not now, as it's completely given out from all you've put it through!

 

#2167:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 10:17 pm

I have really enjoyed the last few posts, so what was the phone call Madge got at 4.00 am???

 

#2168:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 10:20 pm

I don't know whether to applaud Lesley for those cliffs and heartwrenching posts or if I should beat myself over the head for falling for it!

Well done, Lesley! You've done it again.

 

#2169:  Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 10:20 pm

I think I'd be hopping mad if I wasn't so relieved Nell's alright!
Shocked

Thank you Lesley, I think.

 

#2170:  Author: catherine, Location: York PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 10:28 pm

Lesley, you're impossible!! Rolling Eyes

 

#2171:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 10:34 pm

LESLEY ANN GREEN!
You horror!!!!!!

Glad Nell's okay though!

 

#2172:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 10:47 pm

Last one - a mini - for the night!

Melbourne, Friday 15th October

Madge spoke on the phone for some minutes, when she replaced the receiver Jem, still awake, spoke, “What is it, then?”

“Con Mackenzie,” Madge said, yawning, “She and Jock took the family and Evvy Van Alden to London for a holiday.”

“So?”

“She was calling to say Janetta has managed to break her wrist, has to have it in plaster. They’ll be a few days late getting back for the start of term,”

“Well why on Earth did she call now?” Jem sounded distinctly disgruntled.

“She’d completely forgotten about the time difference,” Madge said, snuggling into Jem’s back, “She’d tried to speak to Hilda or Nell, phoning their cottage, but obviously couldn’t get hold of them, So she thought she’d let me know. She sent profuse apologies, by the way, said she owes both of us a drink!”

“Oh great, like I need more alcohol at the moment!” But although Jem’s tone was harsh his actions were not. He twisted round so that he had his arms around Madge, her head on his shoulder. The pair fell asleep like that until late morning.

 

#2173:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 10:50 pm

Thanks, Lesley. I do like all the loose ends tied up Wink

 

#2174:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 10:51 pm

Thanks for the explanation but whats Evvy doing with Cornelia's sirname, is this a clue to her location?? Wink

 

#2175:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 10:54 pm

Ally wrote:
Thanks for the explanation but whats Evvy doing with Cornelia's sirname, is this a clue to her location?? Wink


Ally, Evvy Van Alden is a pupil of the Real Chalet School, she and Janetta were, with Shane Coates, involved in the attempt to kill them, arranged by Janet during Surfeit.

She's been in the series since Real, but Cornelia - her mother, has not been found yet, although they are searching.

 

#2176:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 10:54 pm

I think that's Cornelia's daughter isn't it?

 

#2177:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Thu Aug 12, 2004 11:41 pm

Lovely scene with Jem cuddling Madge!!! Very sweet to see them like that!

 

#2178:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 12:09 am

Bunny's got me tonight - 'nother bit!

England Thursday 14th October

One of the paramedics wandered over to check out Hilda a few minutes later. Hilda was relieved to note that he looked nothing like the paramedic in her dream. He examined her thoroughly, checked her reflexes and looked into her eyes. After ascertaining that Hilda was fully cognisant in time and space he smiled.

“I don’t think you’ve done anything serious,” he said, “And I don’t think you need to go to casualty, especially as you have a first aider here, and you’ll not be on your own. I’ll get a check list for you. If you start to experience any of the symptoms on there, you must go to your local A & E department immediately.” He disappeared to return a few minutes later with a laminated sheet of paper, he handed it across.

“I would recommend that you not drive for the next 24 hours,” he said.

“We are booked on a long haul flight back to Australia tomorrow,” Hilda said, “Are there any contraindications to my taking the flight?”

The man thought for a while, “So long as you’ve experienced none of the symptoms on that sheet,” he said eventually, “You should be fine. Once you’re home get your own GP to check you out.”

Less than twenty minutes later the five were on their way, Nell driving with Hilda sat next to her, the three girls crowded into the seats just behind. Nell looked across at her friend, “You sure you’re OK, Hilda?” she smiled, “You seemed a bit shocked when you first awoke!”

“I was, Nell,” Hilda replied softly, “As I said, I’d been in the middle of a very realistic and upsetting dream. I was so pleased to discover that that was all it was! Thinking back though, even in the midst of the dream, I believe I could hear all of you calling me. I was very happy to awaken!”

“Well that scaffolding could have been nasty if either of us had been beneath it,” Nell continued, “Are you sure you’re OK though? No headache or anything?”

Hilda smiled slightly, watching as Nell manoeuvred onto the motorway, “I have a slight headache, Nell,” she admitted, “But as I have a rather high pain threshold when it comes to headaches, it’s nothing.”

There was silence for a time, Alison and the others, relieved that Hilda was OK, moved back a few seats, primarily so that Alison and Carol could extract as much information as possible from Louise about her night with Andrew! Hilda looked across at Nell, still unable to prevent a prayer of thanks that her dream had not been real.

“Nell,” she said softly, “You know we have been speaking about additions to the School curriculum?”

Nell nodded absently, intend on passing an extremely slow moving lorry.

“Well I’d like another item to be added,” Hilda said, “I want all pupils and Staff qualified as First Aiders.”

There was silence for a time as Nell absorbed the information, “You mean it, Hilda?” Nell was surprised, “You’ve always felt there were enough because all the Guides, Guiders etc were qualified, while the rest had an Emergency First Aid course.”

“I mean it, Nell,” Hilda was adamant, “And I’ll speak to Madge about having it a part of the contract for all Staff, not just Teaching. You never know when you may be called upon to administer First Aid and I don’t ever want any member of Staff or pupil to cause harm to someone because they did not know correct procedure.”

Last edited by Lesley on Fri Aug 13, 2004 6:05 pm; edited 2 times in total

 

#2179:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 12:20 am

Yay!!! Good for the bunny! and very sensible of Hilda!!!

 

#2180:  Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 1:22 am

*breathless* Lesley, you do know you're lucky you posted that after the SG, don't you.....?








cos otherwise you'd have been lynched!!! Laughing Laughing That was a wonderfully marvellously powerfully FILTHY stunt to pull!
*still dazed*

 

#2181:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 3:56 am

*mightily relieved*
I was sure we were in for months of rehab following some tricky nerve regeneration.

 

#2182:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 8:21 am

Lesley!!!!! If I wasn't so relieved I'd be furious!!!

*happy drabble dance*

 

#2183:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 9:23 am

Arghhhhh!!!!!

I thought we'd have endless agonizing about whether Hilda should stay with Nell or return to the school in Australia - and then RCS5 would be Nell's slow and painful recovery.

And then this!!!

Exclamation



Goes without saying that I'm very glad it was all made up!

 

#2184:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 9:29 am

ROFL ROFL ROFL

Satisfied, Lesley?!!

 

#2185:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 9:34 am

Rachael wrote:
ROFL ROFL ROFL

Satisfied, Lesley?!!


Yes, I think so! Mr. Green

 

#2186:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 10:09 am

Lesley wrote:
“Wake up, Hilda!”


So that explains what this was doing in the middle of the post in Nell's hospital room - I read it and could quite work it out although I had me wondering...oh the joys of reading all of a nights posts in one go, it certainly smooths out the bumps!

Wonderful! Thank you, Lesley!

 

#2187:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 10:12 am

Yes, Nell, as always the clues were there! There are four or five little sentences like that sprinkled through the posts where Hilda is dreaming!

The journey down to Heathrow was completed with very little incident; the continuation of the girls’ education including a number of new swear words - from Nell, and the realisation that glares work even through two windscreens - from Hilda. But this only slightly enlivened an otherwise boring journey. They reached the Airport hotel around four pm, just managing to miss the build up of traffic when millions of otherwise sane people got into metal boxes for the pleasure of travelling at less than walking pace through Surrey and Kent.

Once at the hotel the five left most of their luggage sealed, ready for the trip the following day, only carrying overnight bags with them to their rooms. The flight on Friday was leaving Heathrow at midday, this meant that check-in was at nine am. After getting settled in their rooms the five met down in the coffee lounge to discuss what to do on the last night of their holiday.

Louise spoke first, “Andrew said he was going to try and get over this evening,” she said, “But it’s unlikely that it’ll be before nine, shall we go out for a meal before that?”

Hilda and Nell looked at each other, “Good idea,” Nell said, “It’ll be nice to have our last meal together in England. What about having it here? Would be easier for Andrew to catch up.”

The others nodded, then Hilda spoke, “If we’ve time, Nell, we could also complete that visit, you know, the one we were going to make before these three managed to get themselves arrested!”

Nell grinned, “Why not, we don’t know when we’ll next be in England, and Liss said she would appreciate a visit.”

They arranged to meet up with the girls for dinner at around half seven and made their way to the tube station. Luckily the journey was only a short one and they found themselves outside the correct address.

“Now, remember what has happened on other occasions,” warned Hilda, “And be prepared!”

They knocked on the door, a short time later there was the sound of a door being opened and a young woman stood there, she was slim with blonde hair and wore glasses, she had a little girl, of perhaps three, on one hip.

“Yes?” she said.

“Are you Kathye?” Hilda asked quickly.

The woman frowned slightly, “Yes, I’m Kathye,” she replied, “Can I help you?”

Nell quickly dragged Hilda back, ordering her not to correct Kathye’s English, she smiled, “Yes you can, Kathye,” she said firmly, “But first let’s be prepared.” She pushed the astonished Kathye and somewhat disgruntled Hilda into the hallway. It was, perhaps, a measure of her own trustworthiness that Kathye didn’t even feel mildly anxious.

“OK, Kathye,” Nell said, “We’ll tell you who we are, but first, if you just hand your daughter over to Hilda, that’s right, don’t want any accidents.”

Dumbfounded Kathye did just that and Hilda found herself in possession of an extremely lively toddler, “Er, Nell?” she began.

“Later, Hilda,” Nell said firmly, “Now Kathye, I’ll introduce the pair of us. I’m Nell Wilson, and that woman there, currently looking upon your daughter as if she were from another planet, is Hilda Annersley.”

There was silence, Kathye looked from one to the other, noting the resemblances to characters she had only read in a book. Then she fainted.

Nell grunted as she caught Kathye, she smiled across at Hilda, “Knew we had to get her daughter off of her before telling her.” she said.

 

#2188:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 10:23 am

Brilliant Lesley!!!

Wish I could see Kathye's face when she sees it!!!!

 

#2189:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 10:34 am

Lesley wrote:
They reached the Airport hotel around four pm, just managing to miss the build up of traffic when millions of otherwise sane people got into metal boxes for the pleasure of travelling at less than walking pace through Surrey and Kent.


Love this line...had me laughing out loud in the office!

Also wish I was at Kathye's to see her face when she reads this!!

Lesley does this mean you're not woking today so we can expect lots more of this... Wink

 

#2190:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 10:45 am

Are you sure that Kathye would hand over Megan just like that???

Love it though.

 

#2191:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 10:47 am

Not sure that Megan would allow herself to be either...

Also not convinced there would be room for Kathye to faint in the hall if it had three adults and one toddler in it! Wink

 

#2192:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 11:19 am

Oh, picky, picky picky!! I've never been to Kathye's - remember? Laughing

A short time later, Kathye recovered, they were all sitting just outside the house, Megan, Kathye’s daughter, happily playing with a balloon Hilda had found for her. Kathye said she was completely recovered, although both Hilda and Nell had their doubts. She was speaking to them both now.

“Oh my God, oh my God!” Kathye lifted a trembling hand to her face and lit her cigarette, “I can’t believe this, you’re really here,” she swallowed and looked over at the two women in front of her while lighting her cigarette.

“Er, Kathye…” Hilda began,

“I mean I’d sort of heard, you know?” Kathye said lifting her lighter to light a cigarette, “It had sort of registered, but not really!”

“Um, Kathye…” Nell began,

Kathye continued without pausing, “It’s just so totally extreme, so fantastic,” she lit her cigarette, “so completely…”

“Kathye!!!” Both Nell and Hilda tried together,

Kathye jumped, “Yes, what is it?” she asked quickly.

“You have four cigarettes in your mouth, Kathye,” Hilda said with a totally expressionless face.

 

#2193:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 11:23 am

*g*

Poor Kathye!

 

#2194:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 11:24 am

LOLOLOLOLOLOL

That had me laughing so loudly the kids caming running over to see what was going on!

 

#2195:  Author: Rachel, Location: Plotting in my lair PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 11:24 am

Laughing Sounds about right!

 

#2196:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 11:26 am

ROFL ROFL ROFL
Very apt!!
(hope she sees this before she leaves!!)



Quote:
the build up of traffic when millions of otherwise sane people got into metal boxes for the pleasure of travelling at less than walking pace through Surrey and Kent.

And very heartfelt!!

 

#2197:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 12:22 pm

I only came down to close the computer before leaving for Devon but my will power is non-existent! So glad I checked!

I love that picture of Kathye!!!

Now, firmly closing down but in no fit state to drive!

 

#2198:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 1:55 pm

Final post time Well this one is just over 104,000 words - not bad for only 23 days of story. Thanks again to everyone that read and commented - it really does help me to keep going! Planning on taking some time off, so don't expect RCS5 for a while!

Melbourne, Saturday 16th October

Hilda, Nell and the girls had spent a quiet final evening in England together, having a meal in the hotel’s excellent restaurant. Afterwards they had moved to the bar and sat with drinks, reminiscing on their three weeks away. Andrew St John had arrived a little after nine pm and stayed for a few drinks before disappearing with Louise. Hilda and Nell both turning a blind eye to the breach in hotel regulations caused by Andrew spending the night with Louise.

The following morning the five had met for breakfast before travelling across to the airport and check-in. Louise a little inclined to be upset at leaving, though Andrew was going to be flying out to Melbourne for the Christmas break.

The flight back to Australia was uneventful, with only a two hour stopover in Bangkok, rather than an overnight stop in Singapore as on the way out. It meant that, by the time the party reached Melbourne they had been travelling almost continuously for some 26 hours! At the Arrivals at Melbourne airport John and Shane Coates were waiting and quickly relieved them of their luggage before ushering all of them into the minibus.

“The others thought you’d appreciate a sleep before seeing everyone. Especially as it‘ll be midnight before we get to the school.” John said, as he drove back, “You’re all going back to the cottage for the night, aren’t you?”

Hilda nodded, “Yes, it’ll save the girls disturbing anyone. I gather some people are back?”

“Yes, the other Prefects are back, as are a number of the Middles, most of the Staff are back too. Oh and Ruth asked me to inform you that, at last count, there were 417 emails marked urgent for you to deal with, and 92 letters marked Private and Confidential - to be opened by addressee only.” John grinned across at the Head then continued, “Hope you had a relaxing time on holiday, Hilda!”

Hilda looked across at Nell, they both smiled.

The following morning saw all five up by around eight, feeling somewhat jet lagged but aware that there was a great deal still to do. Ruth called over around ten to find both Hilda and Nell getting ready to come across to the School, they walked over to the Head’s Study and listened as Ruth, Nancy and Kathie detailed everything that had happened at the School during their three week absence.

“No problems or worries then?” Nell asked, as they all sat round Hilda’s table drinking coffee.

Ruth looked at the other two, “No, nothing,” she said, “It all went very smoothly, though I’ve no idea how on Earth the pair of you thought you'd have had any rest, taking it on between the two of you!”

Hilda frowned slightly, “But you managed to have some time for recreation, didn’t you? You said you were going to try scuba diving? How did that go?”

“Oh very relaxing!” Kathie said promptly, then bit her lip to prevent herself giggling. Hilda and Nell looked over suspiciously at the younger woman, to deflect their suspicion Nancy asked,

“And what about the two of you? I hope you are fully rested, and had a wonderful break?”

Hilda smiled slowly, “Wonderfully rested, Nancy,” she said with absolute certainty, “And you were all quite correct, Nell and I needed the break. We had a perfect trip, the stay in both London and Nottingham went well, and visiting the Scottish Highlands was beautiful.”

Nell looked across at her partner, marvelling at how Hilda could lie so convincingly!

“Oh I am glad,” this from Ruth, “We did feel that you needed some time apart from any alarms and excursions. It sounds as though you really enjoyed it!”

Nell smiled, ”We did,” she confirmed, she then turned to Kathie, “Now what’s the giggle for? Did something happen while we were away?” Her grey eyes bore into Kathie who gulped and made as though to answer. Luckily the phone rang and Nell’s attention was diverted. While Hilda was answering the call Nancy kicked Kathie, enjoining her to keep control. They had decided that Hilda and Nell would not hear of the more, adventurous, aspects of their three weeks in charge!

Hilda put the phone down and turned to the others, “That was John Coates,” she said, “Two large boxes have arrived, addressed to Nell and myself. He says we should go to the Gatehouse where the security staff are busy unpacking them.”

All five women piled into one of the School jeeps for the trip to the Gatehouse, once there they could see the huge containers on the grass outside. Some of the Security Staff were busy opening them with a crowbar. John walked over,

“They just arrived, special delivery,” he said, he handed a small envelope over to Hilda, “This was with them.”

The women watched as the first of the boxes was opened, the box fell away to reveal an object inside, covered with bubble wrap. Nell and Kathie moved across to help get rid of all the packing. Inside was a large, brand new BMW motorbike, in black and silver.

“Oh my God!” this was from Shane Coates, “D’you know what this is?” He looked round at the others, “It’s a BMW K1200 LT Lux, it’s the ultimate in touring bikes. It’s got everything you could ever want on a bike.”

Nell looked it over, her eyes gleaming, “This is addressed to me?” she said faintly.

Shane nodded, “And the other one’s addressed to Miss Annersley!” he said.

They watched as the other box was opened to reveal an identical bike.

Shane swallowed, “These are the ultimate,” he said, more than a hint of avarice in his voice, “And they’re not cheap! One of these would set you back nearly fifty thousand Australian dollars!”

Hilda and Nell moved to examine the bikes, noting that, though very large and heavy, they were comparatively easy to handle. They looked at each other.

“Looks like we’ll be doing more touring then, Hilda!” Nell smiled.

Hilda nodded.

“But where have they come from?” Ruth asked, “You didn’t order them yourself did you?” Both women shook their heads, then Hilda remembered the letter.

“Have a look in here, Ruth,” she said, handing it over, “Perhaps it’ll say who sent them.”

She and Nell, along with all the guards, continued their examination of the bikes. A short time later, Ruth, Nancy and Kathie having read the letter, called across, “Ah, Hilda, Nell, could you come over here a minute please?”

Sighing at having to leave the bikes, both women walked across to where the other three stood, “Read this!” Ruth ordered, passing across the paper. It was only a very short note, written on plain paper, it said the following:

To Miss Annersley and Miss Wilson, Hilda and Nell,

I know that you both understand why no official recognition can be made of your actions. However there is nothing to prevent me from making an unofficial gift. I discovered that, although you had been biking when in Scotland, the bikes were only on hire. I thought you might appreciate having bikes of your own.

With the deepest gratitude and admiration.

Yours sincerely

Anne,
Princess Royal.

The two Heads read the letter in silence, then looked across at Ruth, Nancy and Kathie, Ruth spoke, “Was there something you wanted to share with us?” she asked sweetly.


THE END

Last edited by Lesley on Fri Aug 13, 2004 6:16 pm; edited 3 times in total

 

#2199:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 2:08 pm

ROFL ROFL ROFL
OMG!! What a fantastic ending!! I had no idea you had that up your sleeve!!

Love the cover-ups about what really went on in Melbourne and the UK and would love to have been a fly on the wall to see how H&N get out of that one!!

Lesley - superlatives all round ... another fabulous RCS and yet another fabulous finale!!

Now - whether to print this off to see if Vikki and Kathye want it or whether to wait ..... hmmmmm .... Confused .... Twisted Evil

(Psst - Catherine_B - knowing that you'll read this, please can you check your PMs and reply!!!)

ETA - good timing with that final post, thanks!!

Last edited by Rachael on Fri Aug 13, 2004 2:09 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#2200:  Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 2:08 pm

Ohhhh, thank you Lesley. I'm now extremely glad that I've stayed on the board after lunch has finished. It was definitely worth it.

*wanders off to various other drabbles to get other people to write more*

JackieJ

 

#2201:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 2:09 pm

ROFL! Can't wait to see how they all explain this! I think the entirety of RCS 5 could be taken up by them describing their respective holidays!

*also wants to see Kathye's face when she reads this!*

Thank you so much Lesley - this has been an absolutely fantastic drabble, and incredibly enjoyable to read. (Yes, even the cliffs!) I'm looking forward to reading much more of your writing. (Yes, that was a hint)

 

#2202:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 2:11 pm

Wonderful! They had to be from the PR but it does leave Hilda and Nell with some explaining to do! I hope that when they have the others will return the favour and tell the full story of their three weeks!

Lesley, this has been fantastic. I don't have words to describe the brilliance but you have successfully managed to make put us through the full gamut of emotion - humour, tension, adventure, excitement, fun, fear, concern, sorrow etc. and as for the cliffs!!! I shall wait in awe for no. 5!!

 

#2203:  Author: Cumbrian Rachel, Location: near High Wycombe PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 2:18 pm

Perfect timing for checking the board!


Thank you for a wonderful story Lesley!


Any chance of getting the next few RCS written before January?! Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease!

 

#2204:  Author: Nell, Location: London, England PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 2:22 pm

C_R you could always ask for them to be printed off and posted to you!!!

 

#2205:  Author: Cumbrian Rachel, Location: near High Wycombe PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 2:34 pm

I may have to do that Very Happy but not having to read through the cliffs wouldn't quite be the same!

 

#2206:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 2:36 pm

I could send up to each cliff, Rachel, then you'd have to wait for the next post for the resolution of same! Laughing

Last edited by Lesley on Fri Aug 13, 2004 2:48 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#2207:  Author: catherine, Location: York PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 2:46 pm

Thank you, Lesley. It's been, like your previous ones, a fantastic read.

*settles back for a long wait until RCS 5*

 

#2208:  Author: Mora, Location: Lancaster PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 2:53 pm

*happy dance* because everything turned out well.

And I'm already waiting in anticipation for RCS5, when ever you deign to bestow it on us Lesley. I would hold my breath, but I'd like to be alive to read it.

 

#2209:  Author: Rachel, Location: Plotting in my lair PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 3:00 pm

Lesley, this was as brillilant as the first three. I feel it is safe to comment again now that it is finished - after your reaction to comments made when you hadn't killed Nell but wanted people to think you had, but I didn't, I thought it safer to sit back and shut up in the latest installments!

You are truly the Queen of Drabbles, and Mistress of the Cliffs.

Can't wait for RCS 5!!!

 

#2210:  Author: Sarah_K, Location: St Albans PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 3:10 pm

Fantastic Lesley, what a brilliant ending, I knew the cover ups were never going to work but H&N were given away in a rather wonderful fashion Very Happy

Thank you for all 104,000 words!

 

#2211:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 3:32 pm

That was a fantastic ending. I so wish I could see their faces when they realised the others had read the letter and be demanding explanations.

I know we would love to see how they got out of it, but I actually think it was the perfect place to end, we need to exercise our imaginations with it, and it left us appreciating the situation rather than seeing it all explained.

(That isn't put well but I hope you know what I mean)

Thank you so much for the hard work you have put into these four stories. Do take as long a break as you want before starting the next, we will wait in anticipation.

 

#2212:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 4:09 pm

Fantastic, Lesley, wonderful ending.

Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing Laughing

 

#2213:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 5:09 pm

Fantabudabulous ending to a wonderful piece of writing!!! ROFL

*hopes Lesley is too addicted to take more than a teensy tiny smidgeon of a break.*
(unless she needs more Confused )
(Breaks can be dangerous, you know.)

 

#2214:  Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 5:33 pm

Well, at least she didn't send them a couple of horses! Shocked Mad Mad

I love that last line, Lesley! And I'm not going to even try with the superlatives. But could you be nice and kind and email me the full doc? *grinning at thought of the gradually growing archives of RCS...*

Try it to t9701419@qub.ac.uk cos I have a nasty feeling that hotmail will bounce it! Embarassed

And have a lovely lovely holiday after that marathon...










...but don't forget to work hard on the next one! ROFL ROFL

 

#2215:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 7:54 pm

There's no way I can add to the congrats properly Lesley. I loved the ending, and agree with Lisa (?) that it was a good job you hadn't posted that teaser before last weekend!!!
Looking forward to RCS5, like everyone else. For your sake take as long as you need, for ours - well I know you said October, but........

 

#2216:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 11:25 pm

*happy dancing*

Thank you Lesley - I'm quite glad I missed those cliffs having been away this week!

This was absolutely BRILLIANT!

 

#2217:  Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Fri Aug 13, 2004 11:53 pm

Just caught up on this from late afternoon Thursday due to being out on Thursday night and busy packing to move house all day today.

Can't believe I fell for one of Lesley's "Nell is in Mortal Danger" cliffs again!

Great ending - thanks for this Lesley.

Looking forward to RCS 5, which I will be able to follow from the beginning rather than doing a mammoth catch up!

 

#2218:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Sat Aug 14, 2004 12:45 am

Ruth B wrote:
Can't believe I fell for one of Lesley's "Nell is in Mortal Danger" cliffs again!


Oh damn, does that mean you'll not believe me if I write that Nell's in danger again? Laughing Wink

 

#2219:  Author: Lisa_T, Location: Belfast PostPosted: Sat Aug 14, 2004 1:11 am

Nope! partly cos we *know* that you'll never kill off one of those two, however close you may come to it...

 

#2220:  Author: Nicole, Location: New Zealand PostPosted: Sat Aug 14, 2004 5:23 am

Brilliant. Absolutely brilliant.

The last post was sheer genius. I've just completely run out of words here, Lesley.

Have a great break and do lots of plotting for RC5 - I'm sure you'll plan lots of cliffs for us to fall over.

Looking forward very much to the next installment - when you're ready.

 

#2221:  Author: Kathryn, Location: Melbourne/Hamilton until 11 September PostPosted: Sat Aug 14, 2004 6:27 am

Absolutely fantastic! Can't wait for the next one.

 

#2222:  Author: Guest,  PostPosted: Sat Aug 14, 2004 2:00 pm

Wonderful again, Lesley! Looking forward to the next already.

*thinks we need a new vocabulary just for RCS instalments*

 

#2223:  Author: BethC, Location: Worcester, UK PostPosted: Sat Aug 14, 2004 2:02 pm

Embarassed Sorry, didn't notice I wasn't logged in... Embarassed

 

#2224:  Author: Alex, Location: Home again PostPosted: Sun Aug 15, 2004 7:55 pm

Wow Lesley, thanks for brightening up my summer with another marvellous epic.

*Proposes that we start oscar-style drabble awards so that Lesley can win "Highest Number of Cliffs per Paragraph" and "Most Near-Death Situations"*

 

#2225:  Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Sun Aug 15, 2004 9:59 pm

Oh, so that's where the beamers came in to it. I was waiting for the two of them to go riding off into the sunset, then when they got on the plane I thought you'd changed your mind, I certainly never expected that!
It was a brilliant ending, to a brilliant story - I loved the trick you played with the scaffolding and Hilda's dream - is there no end to your genius?
Thank you Lesley, and enjoy your break, you've earned it.

 

#2226:  Author: Kelly, Location: Auckland, New Zealand PostPosted: Sun Aug 15, 2004 10:25 pm

*whispers*
Lesley, can you email it to me in a word doc. Please.
My computer at home is too slow and I can't get through it all. I'm unbearably behind, and I want to know what happens.
I'd be very grateful if you wouldn't mind.

 

#2227:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Mon Aug 16, 2004 12:50 am

Lesley - as ever this was just amazing

Even thought the last 3 weeks plus worth of posts have been read pretty much in 2 goes due to my holidays, I've still fallen for every cliff and tension wringing moment. Like everyone else I can't wait for the next part, but do take some time off - I just don't know how you manage to work, write almost full time and commute Very Happy

 

#2228:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Mon Aug 16, 2004 1:00 am

Lesley, thank you so much for all your hard work, and a wonderful story!!!

(also thanks to Rachael, for being a wonderful shiny person and printing the last posts out for Kathye and I to read because she knew we had no net access for the weekend!!!)

Gem wrote:


*also wants to see Kathye's face when she reads this!*


Gem, having been lucky enough to SEE Kathye's face when she read the second post featuring her, I can confirm that it was a picture!!!!!!! ROFLROFL

 

#2229:  Author: Sugarplum, Location: second star to the right! PostPosted: Mon Aug 16, 2004 1:09 am

WOW Lesley - I just caught up from befoer the SG.
You are amazing ...thanks for writing such a wonderful drabble

Can't wait for RCS 5 ......but enjoy your break Smile

 

#2230:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Mon Aug 16, 2004 9:42 am

Vikki wrote:


Gem wrote:


*also wants to see Kathye's face when she reads this!*


Gem, having been lucky enough to SEE Kathye's face when she read the second post featuring her, I can confirm that it was a picture!!!!!!! ROFLROFL


Are you telling me you didn't take a picture?!

*collapses in shock*

Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy

 

#2231:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Mon Aug 16, 2004 10:12 am

*g*

I don't think Vikki was expecting a print-off ... but suffice to say that Kathye was having a cigarette at the time and almost choked on it!!
She was also rather worried about what people who haven't met her might think of her based on Lesley's description!! Laughing Laughing

 

#2232:  Author: Robin, Location: London, England PostPosted: Mon Aug 16, 2004 10:35 am

can't believe it's all over!
Thanks Lesley, that last bit was inspired.

Looking forward to RCS5....

 

#2233:  Author: PatMac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Fri Aug 20, 2004 8:50 am

Lovely ending, Lesley! I think they've all got a lot to 'fess!

Great story all the way through and echoes all those waiting for RCS5, though I think you do deserve a break after that effort.

Thank you so much.

 

#2234:  Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London PostPosted: Fri Aug 20, 2004 9:46 pm

Wonderful! Absolutely fabulous!!

Pat told me at the FOCS weekend that there was a cliff (that I'd missed sitting through) but I still landed in a heap at the bottom!!! We bow before you, O Queen of Cliffs!

So, is the explanation going to be the first part of RCS V, or is it going to be a little interim drabble to keep us going before the Leviathan begins again? Very Happy

 

#2235:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Sun Aug 22, 2004 7:50 pm

Wow! Lesley that was completely fabulous.
Hope you have an amazing break and come back relaxed and rested! (mentally equipped for RCS5 etc!)

And I cannot BELIEVE it was only 2 months! It feels like years! (was all the cliffs, methinks...)

Thanks! Very Happy

 

#2236:  Author: Ella, Location: Staffordshire PostPosted: Tue Aug 24, 2004 10:09 pm

*Ella - late as usual*
Wow.
Can't believe I've been away and only just caught up with the ending. Can't believe it's finished.
Lesley - the plotlines are incredible, and the cliffs extremely dangerous. Brilliant. Thank you very much.
Will sit back and anticipate RCS5!
Very Happy Very Happy

[PS - Ciorstaidh - I thought I might run into a CBBer or two at the FOCS weekend, but being a shy new girl I didn't recognise anyone! Spent a long time wistfully looking at pristine CS books way beyond my price range. Lots of saving up to do!]

 

#2237:  Author: Sophie, Location: Cambridegeshire PostPosted: Thu Aug 26, 2004 12:18 pm

Just caught up in time for the end! I loved the bikes from the PR, especially the note giving them away! The ones left behind have got to explain where all those scholarships for German girls came from too. Lots of explaining to do on both sides. I also loved the dream. Took me right back to Bobby Ewing in the shower! Glad Nell's OK, though. I find myself thinking about RCS at odd points during the day, wondering how they're going to get out of whatever situation you've put them in. Sign of a truly great story.

Have a good rest, enjoy your holiday from writing, and I'm looking forward to the launch of RCS 5 onto an unsuspecting world.

 

#2238:  Author: karry, Location: Stoke On Trent - the home of the Potteries PostPosted: Sun Aug 29, 2004 9:19 pm

Have just read the whole of RCS4 this weekend! I was waiting for Robin Hood to make an appearance, center Parcs being in the middle of Sherwood Forest - (the penalties of being brought up in the Nottingham area!) Thanks Lesley for emailing 1,2 and 3, have now to spend the next week catching up on the background Surprised
*waits impatiently for RCS5*

 

#2239:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Mon Aug 30, 2004 11:47 am

Any sign of RCS5 Lesley dear?

*Looks incredibly hopeful*

Kiss

 

#2240:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Mon Aug 30, 2004 12:29 pm

Kat wrote:
Any sign of RCS5 Lesley dear?

*Looks incredibly hopeful*

Kiss


ROFL ROFL ROFL ROFL ROFL
ROFL ROFL ROFL ROFL ROFL
ROFL ROFL ROFL ROFL ROFL
ROFL ROFL ROFL ROFL ROFL
ROFL ROFL ROFL ROFL ROFL

 

#2241:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Mon Aug 30, 2004 12:30 pm

*thinks that might mean no*

*goes off to cry in a corner*

 

#2242:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Mon Aug 30, 2004 1:16 pm

Crying or Very sad

 

#2243:  Author: Vikki, Location: Possibly in hell! It's certainly hot enough....... PostPosted: Mon Aug 30, 2004 6:17 pm

Kat wrote:
Any sign of RCS5 Lesley dear?

*Looks incredibly hopeful*

Kiss


*thinks Kat seems startlingly eager to meet her doom.......* Wink

 

#2244:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Mon Aug 30, 2004 7:38 pm

Doom? And doom would that be? *looks politely inquiring*

 

#2245:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Mon Aug 30, 2004 7:41 pm

*giggles*

C'mon, Kat, you must have known when you wrote that drabble that you'd end up in RCS 5!

 

#2246:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Thu Sep 02, 2004 4:09 pm

Thank you so much Lesley. Have just caught up on all the last bits, as you finished the day after I went on holiday.

There are no superlatives to describe the story, wonderful does not go near enough. I really enjoyed it.

Looking forward to the next one as soon as you are able.

 

#2247:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Thu Sep 02, 2004 4:19 pm

Well, it's not as if she hasn't got enough ammunition ... ahem ... I mean inspiration!! Rolling Eyes Wink

 

#2248:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Thu Sep 02, 2004 5:38 pm

Hehehe, no, I think you were definitely right the first time Rach!

 

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