Chapter Text
1.Early Christmas Morning- London.
“Happy Christmas, Mummy and Daddy, I’ve got presents in my stocking, can I open them now?” Sam climbed up on the bed and Charles and Lawrie stopped what they were doing and started to laugh. “May I and Sam, you're a passion killer,” said Charles, reaching for his dressing gown. Lawrie lay back, wriggling into her nightdress under the bedclothes, Sam was too busy with his stocking, and then she heard Poppy stirring. “Tonight,” whispered Charles and she said, “Let's hope so,” and she got out of bed to go and collect Poppy “Happy Christmas to you,” she said, “You'll be dead tonight, with all the catering.”
“No, I won't, it’s all prepared,” Charles said indignantly and watched Sam open his stocking presents.
“Chocolates,” said Sam, “and nuts, and a book,” he ripped off the paper and said, “It’s a Beatrice Potter, The Tale of Piglet?”
“Pigling,” said Lawrie bringing Poppy in and put her down on the bed, Poppy grabbed a chocolate and Sam shouted and snatched it back, “It’s mine. You can’t have it.” Charles looked at him in shock and said, “Calm down, if you’re going to behave like that, you won’t have any.” Poppy glared at her brother, screamed and kicked out at him. Lawrie grabbed her and held onto her firmly and Sam stared back angrily and declared, “She took my chocolate.”
“She just saw it and touched it, that’s what she does now. Soon, she’ll start to taste everything, then she’ll crawl everywhere, this is how she learns, do you understand?” asked Charles and Lawrie said, “She’ll learn about what’s yours and hers as she grows up.”
“You’ve lived for four more years than she has, give her the space to grow up as she should,” said Charles and Sam listened and said, “Do I have to say sorry?”
“Yes,” said Lawrie before Charles could say, “If you think that’s the right thing to do.”
“Sorry,” Sam smiled briefly at Poppy and then dived into his stocking again. Lawrie smiled triumphantly and picked up Poppy’s stocking. Charles scowled at her and then watched Sam unwrap “A tractor, it can pull the trailer I’ve got in the farm. Look Daddy,” he waved it in the air and then watched Lawrie unpack Poppy’s stocking, “What’s that?” he asked, “A rattle,” said Lawrie and Sam put out his hand to take it.
“That’s Poppy’s, you’ve got to let her play with her toys, you can’t take it,” said Charles in a shocked voice and Sam stopped.
“All these are Poppy’s, you mustn’t touch them or play with them without asking her,” said Lawrie kindly and Sam looked at them both. “I can’t take her toys?” Both Charles and Lawrie shook their heads, “And she mustn’t take mine?”
“Not unless you want to share with her,” said Charles and Sam nodded, “Can I play with your rattle?” he asked Poppy and Lawrie put it in Poppy’s hand, “Let her play with it first,” she said and Poppy looked at it and waved it in the air and smiled at the sound she made. Sam watched, “I’m too old to play with a rattle,” he said dismissively and went back to his stocking, drawing out his last present. He opened it, “Yellow socks,” he shouted, Poppy squawked in annoyance, “Daddy, yellow socks, they’ll go with my yellow shirt. Thank you, I’ve got you a present,” he slid down from the bed and ran out of the room. Poppy sniffed and waved her rattle again, smiling.
“More soft toys,” said Lawrie, unpacking the stocking, “I’m not supposed to make them?”
“Can you?” Charles smiled as Sam came running in again, “Me and Uncle Stephen bought them when we went to see Cecy,” he handed a package over and watched Charles unwrap it, “Yellow socks!” said Charles in disgust and Lawrie burst out laughing. Sam looked at his father eagerly and Charles said enthusiastically, “Thank you very much, just what I wanted, just like you,” and Sam jumped up on the bed and rolled with joy. Poppy kicked him as he came too near to her and he laughed, “Has Poppy got yellow socks?” and he started to sing to her. Charles said thoughtfully and quietly, “Target practice with the bow and arrow if I hang them up on trees?” and Lawrie said, “No chance, you'll wear them today and on his birthday.”
“High Days and holidays,” Charles cheered up, “They’ll be lost in the washing machine a long time before then.”
2. Christmas Morning - Howells
Geoff wandered into the kitchen, “It's cold,” he said to Pippa who was sitting in front of the range.
“I don't know how to light this and there's no water,” she replied.
“Why not? Look at the snow!” he opened the backdoor and smiled, “Plenty of cold water! I'll go and get Mike, he should know.” Pippa nodded, “He's let it go out,” she said.
“Isn't it on gas or something?” asked Geoff and Pippa said, “I think so, I don't know why it's not working, but this is kept lit as a back-up.”
“The weather? I mean for the gas” Geoff stared out and said, “Oh, Happy Christmas.”
“Happy Christmas,” replied Pippa almost in tears and Geoff looked at her and said, “We've got Chas's stove in the barn, we could bring that up.”
“We could,” Pippa stared at the stove, “I wanted everything to be perfect for when Mum and Dad get here. And Margot will be so critical.”
“No, she won't, I'll go and get Mike,” Geoff disappeared and Pippa let the tears trickle down her cheeks. Mike came in and said, “Don't you know how to do this?” and Pippa stared at him and said, “No, don't you?”
“Not at all,” Mike said, “I'll call someone to deal with it!”
“On Christmas Day?” Geoff said, “In that?” he pointed at the snow. Mike said, “Someone will help, I mean we do live here,” he walked off and the twins stared at each other. “What does he mean?” asked Geoff and Pippa giggled, “he thinks he's the king. I think we should go down to Mum and Dad's, at least we can get a breakfast there.”
“I'd rather go to the barn,” Geoff shivered suddenly, “No, you're right. What about the food?”
“For lunch? Take it with us. Let's get dressed.”
“Yes, and take these big trays, we can sledge down the hill to the village.” Pippa grinned and they ran to get dressed warmly.
Michael watched them get ready to go, “I've got through to the water board, the pipes have frozen, and the Gas Board will send someone up tomorrow,” he said, “We'll come down later for lunch. Tell Mum and Dad not to come up.”
“What are you going to do?” asked Geoff, sitting on his tray.
“I need to check the park is alright, we'll breakfast down there, there's calor gas in Anna's Tearooms.”
“See you soon,” Geoff set off and Pippa followed, sliding down the snow covered lawns, both shrieking with joy. Mike went back inside and Erica came out of the kitchen and said, “I've got everything, shall we go?”
“Yes,” said Mike putting on his duffel coat and they left the cold Round House and locked the door. “We might have to stay at Plas Gwyn,” he said as they walked carefully towards the entrance of All Rounders.
“Yes, it'll be a squash though,” said Erica and he nodded, “I wonder if Margot will make it, driving is no fun in weather like this,” she continued and he stopped, “Probably not, and they've got Emma as well. They won't want to risk it.”
“No, I hope everyone is safe at home, here we are, let’s make breakfast. I brought my camera with me, we should get some stunning publicity shots.” Erica took a photograph of the snowed-in tea rooms and smiled, her mind beginning to think of captions, she would brainstorm with Aunt Joey.
3. Christmas Morning - London and Howells
Cecilia unwrapped her dress, “Wow, that’s beautiful, thanks Sam,” Sam smiled, “It’s the same colour as mine and Daddy’s socks, Mummy here’s yours and here’s Poppy’s, she is going to look like a carrot,” he laughed and Jem said, “I think we know what they are.” Lawrie opened hers and said, “Thank you Sam, it’s a lovely colour, we'll wear them this afternoon.”
“Shall I open Poppy’s?” asked Sam and Lawrie nodded. Sam tore off the wrapping and Poppy grabbed the paper and rustled it some more and smiled at him. He took out the dress and showed it to Lawrie who said, “That's beautiful, Poppy can wear it this afternoon.”
“Not for Mass?” asked Sam, “I'm wearing my new yellow shirt and jeans and yellow socks and Daddy is wearing his yellow socks.”
“What? And nothing else?” asked Charles and Jem said, “I think they might find you a loin cloth!” Charles pulled a face at him and said, “I’d be a bit cold.”
“Are you bringing up Poppy as a Catholic?” asked Madge surprised that Charles attended Mass and Lawrie said, “Yes, Nick converted, Chuck is, Sam is, it makes sense. It means I can have Sunday morning to myself. There is a service at the Anglican Church in the next street at the same time. Billy’s going if you’d like to accompany him.”
“And you?” asked Jem, and Lawrie said, “I’ll be looking after the cooking,” and Charles coughed incredulously and Sam laughed, “Mummy’s being funny.”
“I’ll get Poppy ready,” she said and Charles said, “We’ll get dressed as well. Steve and Gil will be over soon, they’re coming to Mass with us. We’ll leave Mummy to tidy up the mess, gives her something to do while we’re out.”
“There’s no lights, or smoke from the chimney,” Geoff frowned and Pippa felt scared and they went up the path to the front door. Plas Gwyn looked deserted and Pippa said, “Let’s try the kitchen door, I know where the key is.” She reached up and took it from under the eaves and handed it over to Geoff who struggled to open the door. Eventually he managed and they stumbled into the kitchen. “This range is out as well,” Geoff looked at it and Pippa said, “I can light this one, there’s wood over there if you'd get it.”
“Yes, I'm starving and want breakfast as soon as possible,” he went out and brought some wood and coal back. Pippa lit the boiler and they watched it as the fire took hold. Geoff filled the kettle and put it on the stove while Pippa raided the pantry. “Sausages, bacon and eggs,” she said bringing them out. There's bread and butter in there as well.”
“I wonder where they are,” said Geoff and Pippa said, “I don't know, Let's eat breakfast first. I'm getting warm now.” Geoff fetched the bread and butter and cut the bread. The kettle boiled and he made the tea. Together they sat down and ate breakfast in silence. When he finished, Geoff said, “I'm going to see Rob.” Pippa looked up, “I'll come with you, his Dad's a policeman isn't he?” Geoff nodded and they got up together. “I'll bank up the fire,” Pippa said and Geoff watched her, “Is that what we didn't do at the Round House?” She nodded and they put their boots back on and locking the door behind them, crossed the village green to the Walkers' cottage.
4.Christmas, Along a country lane.
Trevor Hampton rode his tractor along the road, with a snow plough attached. It was a beautiful morning but he was more worried about checking on his livestock. He inched along the road, through the snowdrifts when he saw headlights flashing at him The snowplough bumped into something in the road and he reversed the tractor and jumped down to investigate. A car, stuck in the snow. “You alI right mate?” he asked looking at the occupants, “You look cold, can you drive do you think, or I can turn the tractor round, I’ve got a tow rope.”
“So have I, in the boot,” said Edward and Trevor nodded, “I’ll go and get it. Been here all night? You'll be pleased to get home.” He went round and cleared the snow off the boot, and opened it. “There’s a couple more flasks in here,” he shouted, “Did you know?”
“No,” Edward shouted back and Trevor brought them back. “Won’t be too hot,” he said, “Didn’t you know they were in there?” He poured two cups of lukewarm coffee and handed them to Edward who tried to take them. “Here,” said Trevor, “I’ll feed you and then you can feed your wife. I’ll get the tractor ready while you’re doing that.” Edward let him feed him and then offered a cup to Margot who sipped it slowly. Trevor made himself busy clearing the snow and Edward said, “Shall I help you?” “No, you’ll need to be alert enough to drive behind. Is she better?” He came back and looked at Margot, “Had bronchial troubles hasn’t she? We’ll get an ambulance for you both back at the farm. Put these behind you,” he handed the flasks to Edward who was feeling more alert and he put them behind his seat and switched on the engine. Margot sat quiet and Trevor started the tractor and moved forward. Edward breathed a sigh of relief, that had been the worst experience of his life, and he had wondered during the night if Margot would survive but she did look better for the drinks. Who had put them in there? He had known about the ones in the car and the blankets and had kept the engine ticking over and the heater on as much as he could do, but it had been a very long, cold night. Trevor drove into the farmyard and up to the kitchen door. A woman came out and took in what had happened, calling behind her for someone to call an ambulance. She rushed over, “Let’s get you both out of the car, your poor lady wife looks dreadful,” Edward levered himself out of the car and Trevor said, “Careful man, you need to take some care, you’ll be cramped,” and helped him into the kitchen where two boys stood staring. “Dad the ambulance want to know the names,” a young girl came in and her father said, “In good time, I’ll fetch the lady now. Tom, move your coat, the lady can sit on the settle.” One of the boys moved his coat and Edward looked at the girl, “Gilbank,” he said briefly. She nodded and went back to the telephone.
“Gilbank?” the younger boy said, “His surname,” said Tom contemptuously. The girl came back and, looking at Edward, said, “They said to say they’re glad you and Dr Gilbank have been found and to tell you that Emma is safe.” Edward nodded and the younger boy said, “Who’s Emma?”
“My baby daughter.” Edward struggled to talk and the boys left him alone as Margot was brought in. Trevor said, “Off you go,” to his children, "go away and leave them alone.” He smiled at Edward, “I’m sorry I had to push you to drive but it was the only way to get your wife here safely. Someone will pick up the car?” Edward nodded and his wife brought in some bread and milk for him. “Take it easy if you can eat it, we'll wait till the Paramedics arrive for your wife.” she fed him slowly and Edward was thankful for their kindness. Margot opened an eye and smiled at him, opened her mouth and started coughing. “Take it easy, love, I'll get you a cup of tea in a minute,”
“Chocolate,” croaked Margot and Trevor said, “You're a doctor? We'll get you some chocolate, Tom, have you got some chocolate the lady can have?”
“Can you swallow it?” asked Edward feeling and sounding better.
“It will melt in her mouth,” said Mrs Hampton getting up and handing a bar of chocolate to her husband who broke it up and fed Margot slowly. “The ambulance will take it's time, it is snowy, not expected. I was going to check on my sheep, once you two are off our hands, I'll go back. I'm hoping they didn't lamb last night but I'm sure they’ll survive, like you have. No-one expected this weather did they?” Trevor carried on talking cheerfully and was relieved when he heard the ambulance. He stood up and went to the door to greet the paramedics.
5. Back at Howells, and then to Portsmouth
PC Walker put down the receiver and smiled at the worried faces of Pippa and Geoff, “I know where everyone is, your mother slipped on the ice after midnight mass and dislocated her knee. She was kept in hospital overnight as a precaution. She'll be discharged tomorrow. Your father is staying in Armiford, and will bring her back. Now, your sister and brother in-law are also in hospital, they got stuck in their car overnight, and are both very cold, but should recover quickly.”
Pippa turned to Geoff and said, “Did that happen in canon?” Geoff frowned and said, “I don't think so, Daisy and Bride and their friends got lost in the Spinney but the main snow injuries were through skiing and sledging. Talking of which, can we take Rob sledging? it's fab at the Round House.”
“After lunch,” Mrs Walker said and Pippa said, “We're a lot of food, it's over at Plas Gwyn, shall we go and bring it here? But Mike and Erica will be coming there.”
“Why don't we eat over there, we'll be the hosts,” Geoff smiled and Rob said, “Yes, John and Sarah can come as well,” and the Walkers looked at each other, “We've got food here, but I suppose we will need to supervise you,” said Mrs Walker and her husband said, “That's a very nice idea, I'll tell my station where I am in case I'm needed.” Rob said, “Come and see my presents, what did you get?” Geoff and Pippa looked at each other, “Nothing yet, I wonder it they're at Plas Gwyn.” They followed him and P.C. Walker turned to his wife, “We can go, it'll distract them.” She nodded, “I'll call Madge though, they've been abandoned again.”
“Yes, I'll call social services as well, if I can't speak to Adrian, I'll leave him a message. Their father could have made the effort.”
“He could have come this morning, his wife is well looked after. His daughter is with her husband. These two are children!”
“Exactly!” PC Walker went to the phone and called Adrian, who was enjoying a peaceful Christmas in his flat, with his books and music. He swore when he heard what P.C. Walker said and said, “Is it worth me kicking their father's arse and sending him home?”
“Much as I like the thought, no, I'll talk to Michael, he can take responsibility. I’m not impressed with him, he let them go down to Plas Gwyn on their own, and didn't give them breakfast before then. He went to check on the Activity Centre.”
“Like father, like son,” said Adrian after a moment, for the first time contrasting Michael unfavourably with Charles. “You talk to him and I'll come up this afternoon and check on the twins.”
“Yes do, Pippa is talking about watching a TV Programme with Cecilia on it, any idea?”
“Blue Peter, on at teatime, she, Cecilia, mentioned it on the ride up to London. They can watch it while they are eating. See you later.” Adrian put down the receiver and swore again. He picked up his Christmas present book and started reading it again.
Rory looked at the chicken and at the clock. If he went to Church, again, he would struggle to cook lunch so that they would have time to go to the family party at the dockyards. Ewan and Jamie rushed in the kitchen, “Dad, it's snowing up North, Geoff called me, it's heavy snow where he and Rob are. They're going sledging after they've cooked lunch,” Ewan spoke excitedly, Jamie looked outside, “We haven't got any.”
“I'll take Jamie to church, if you're cooking dinner,” Ewan offered and Rory accepted it gratefully. The boys still needed to spend sometime together, without him.
“Will we make it to Scotland?” asked Jamie and Rory said, “I have no idea, but if not, we'll find something to do down here. You'll have to ask your friends.”
“And yours,” said Jamie but Ewan said, “They'll be all going out as a group, Dad wouldn't leave us to go out.”
“You won't leave us alone?” Jamie looked worried and Rory said shocked, “Of course not.” Jamie smiled and said, “I've got to go now! Ewan?”
“Relax, get your coat and shoes,” the boys rushed out and Rory smiled, a bit of time to himself.
“Bye Dad,” the front door banged behind them and he sat down and lit an illicit cigarette. He was glad that the war between Ewan and him seemed to be over and the Christmas truce holding. He didn’t want to think of the New Year and the court case, He looked at the chicken and thought where was Maynard when he needed him? and picking up a cookbook, started to reread the recipe.
6. London, after Mass, more guests have arrived
Sam jumped up, “Look,” he shouted, “My bow and arrow! Two of them, Thank you, Daddy,” and he ran out of the room and charged along the corridor into Billy’s flat and back again. Poppy stared after him, Nicholas and Serena slept on. “They’re very placid,” said Madge smiling at her grandchildren and Jan said, “occasionally, not when they’re hungry.” Cecilia looked at them and said, “They’re not that much younger than Poppy but she seems so much older than them.”
“Babies grow very quickly,” said Madge as Charles showed Sam how to fire his arrows, “Outside only,” he said hastily and Sam looked out of the window. “Have you collected the eggs?” asked Charles and Sam said, “I’ll go and play with this and collect them, can you come Daddy?”
“I’m cooking dinner,” Charles said and Stephen said, “I’ll play with you, I’ll only be forced to help cook otherwise.”
“It’s all pre-prepared,” protested Charles picking up wrappings and smiling as David looked down lovingly at his children. Sam had put on his anorak and boots and came in, “Come on Uncle Stephen,” he said and Stephen picked up the bows and arrows, “These are nice, where did you get them?” he asked following Sam obediently.
“Germany, I did think about asking Geoff to make them, but I don’t think he’s able to yet.”
“Probably not,” Stephen got his coat and boots and followed Sam outside.
Cecilia came in and said, “Billy’s gone for a rest, and I’ve left Uncle Jem and Auntie Madge with Kester, David and Jan and the babies, Gil and Lawrie are going to the studio” “We are,” said Lawrie putting Poppy on the kitchen table in her rocker. Gil smiled at Cecilia, “Coming to join in our jamming session? We can listen to Lawrie’s version of Billie Holliday, have you seen it?” “I note you don’t say heard it,” interposed Charles and Lawrie just smiled and Cecilia said, “Yes, I’ll come, what about Poppy?” She looked at her niece.
“She can watch me make dinner, like Sam used to,” Charles smiled at his daughter and she smiled back.
7. Christmas lunchtime. Howells.
Michael and Erica returned to the Round House, “It’s cold,” said Erica, “We’d better get down to Plas Gwyn quickly, to the warmth.” The telephone rang in the study and Mike went to answer it. “Dad? Aren’t you at home? Where? Why? Is she all right? Dislocated knee, why is she in hospital? Dad, don’t be silly, is Margot there? No? You don’t know? Didn’t come home? You go to the hospital, I’ve got to run down to Plas Gwyn, the twins are on their own there. No, you should have come home, mother is fine, you need to be here for the twins. Goodbye.” He turned to Erica, “Mum fell, dislocated her knee, is in hospital. Dad is staying at Margot’s, he’s a total waste of space, oh and Margot’s not there.” He ran upstairs and into the bathroom.
“She’ll be on her way here,” Erica called back and then said, “Geoff and Pippa!”
“Exactly, let’s go,” Michael rushed downstairs, “There’s an old sled in the garage, that’ll be quicker.” They stepped out and locked the door behind them. “It’s beautiful,” Erica smiled and he kissed her quickly and made his way round to the garage. He returned to her pulling the sled. “Sit on it,” he said and she sat in front of him, “Here we go,” he said and pushed off, they sailed down the lawn and landed in a heap at the bottom, laughing. “We can walk through the Spinney, it'll be quicker,” said Michael and Erica paused, “Didn’t some of your relatives get lost in here in the snow or something?”
“We’re not in a Chalet School Story,” retorted Michael and Erica decided not to tell him that they were. They made their way through to the road and mounting the sled again, slid along to the village green. Erica looked up, “There are lights, are you sure what Dad said?”
“Yes,” Michael affirmed walking around to the kitchen and opened the door. Mrs Walker looked up, “You’ve arrived then?”
“Yes, I didn’t realise that Mum and Dad weren’t here. Where’s Margot?” Michael looked surprised and Erica said, “Isn’t she here?”
“She’s in hospital, got stuck in her car overnight,” Geoff said, “Mrs Walker, is this ready?” Michael and Erica looked shocked, “Is she really ill, not like Mum, she’s just injured,” asked Michael and PC Walker came in and said, “A word, young man.” Michael looked back and nodded, following him. Erica said, “What’s the matter?” Mrs Walker said, “The rest of you into the lounge,” and the children left the kitchen. Mrs Walker looked at Erica and said, “You and Michael let the range out at home, neither of you helped Pippa when she was trying to light it. You both let the twins make their own way here, and didn’t phone to warn your parents that they were on their way, nor did you check to see if they arrived safely. You ate breakfast?” Erica nodded, feeling she was back at school, “but you didn’t make sure they had something to eat before they left?” Erica shook her head, “They were very determined, they know what they wanted to do and Mike, we, let them,” she said.
“You are the adults! I hope you’ll remember this, when you have your own children. Luckily they are very sensible and came to ask for help. That’s a sad indictment on the pair of you, that they came to us before you,” Mrs Walker said, “All four of you will be staying here, where we can keep an eye on you all. Now, Margot is not well and she’s in an Oxygen tent under observation. The twins don’t seem to be too upset but you will have to support your parents when they return, not leave it to Pippa. Is that understood?” Erica nodded, “Sorry,” she said, “I didn’t think of all that.”
“No,” Mrs Walker smiled, “You’ll learn, is it the first time you’ve been left in charge?” Erica nodded and said, “I thought that Aunt Joey and Uncle Jack and Margot and Edward would do all that.”
“And then the accidents happened, now you have to step up,” Mrs Walker smiled and Erica nodded and looked at the dinner cooking, “Is there anything I can do to help?”
“Clear and wash up, then take them all out for the afternoon,” said Mrs Walker and Erica said, “We can go sledging down the gardens at the Round House.” The kitchen door opened and PC Walker came in with Michael behind him, looking sheepish. “The meal ready? You'll have to thank your aunt, she’s provided the food.” Erica looked at Michael and as they took their places at the table, she squeezed his hand sympathetically. He squeezed hers and turned to kiss her cheek. Then he looked at his plate and smiled, “This looks good, did you cook it?” he asked Mrs Walker and Erica giggled, “Honestly Mike, who else?”
“We helped,” said Pippa and Geoff nodded, “We peeled the potatoes and scraped the carrots.”
“Pippa did more,” said Mrs Walker, “and she’s made bread and cakes for tea.”
“We can eat that while watching Blue Peter,” said Erica smiling at Pippa, “This is nice, thank you. We went round the park, we’ve got some lovely photographs, they’ll look good for advertising.”
“Yes,” said Michael catching a glance from PC Walker, “Do you want to go and see it after lunch?”
“No, Eric says she'll take us sledding in the Round House, we used trays, it’s fab,” said Geoff and Michael nodded, “Eric and I found a sled and did that as well.”
“We’ve got one as well,” said Rob, “Dad can we get it and go?”
“Yes, get some clothes for your stay here as well,” PC Walker told Mike who said, “I’ll have to go back tomorrow, the gas board are coming out to investigate.” PC Walker nodded.
“I’m going to ask Mary and Anna if they can come,” said Pippa and Mrs Walker said, “You do that while your brother and sister wash up.”
“Me?” Geoff looked up but she shook her head and nodded at Michael. “We’ll go back to our house and leave the four of you alone.”
“Thank you for all your help,” said Michael in a subdued tone and then started to clear everything up.
8. Christmas Afternoon - London
Lunch was over for the adults, Jan was feeding Serena and Lawrie Poppy. Miranda and Anton had come round and Miranda was admiring the babies. The phone rang and Steve picked up the receiver, beating Charles to it. “Hallo? Mrs Walker? It’s Stephen Maynard, how can I help?” He listened and his face looked very serious, Charles and Gil looked at him, “Mrs Walker, just wait a minute, I’m going to transfer this call to the study, if you just wait a moment, Chas, please?” Charles obediently took the receiver and waited till his brother had picked up the receiver, “Chas? you can put it down now.”
“No way, I want to know what’s going on, Happy Christmas Mrs Walker, is there a problem?”
They both listened as she described what had happened to Edward and Margot and their parents.
“What happened to Emma?” Charles interrupted, “No-one’s mentioned her, was she with Edward and Margot?”
“Emma?” Mrs Walker turned and her husband said, “the child? She’s been put into foster care,” and she passed this onto Stephen and Charles who listened to the rest of the story, “I’d like to talk to Madge, and let her know what’s happened, I mean I know she can’t come because of the snow,” she paused as they both laughed, “No snow here,” Stephen assured her and Charles said, “There’s no urgency is there? Margot is in hospital, Mike and Erica are looking after the twins now, Mum and Dad might turn up tomorrow but probably won’t.”
“What do you mean?” asked Mrs Walker quickly and Stephen said, "Mum’ll be more worried about Margot and will hang around Armiford.”
“Stay at Margot’s until Edward kicks them out,” said Charles, “I would invite the twins down but I bet they don’t want to come, not if they can play in the snow with their friends. And it’s good for Mike and Erica to take the responsibility.”
“And if there’s a heating and water problem, where would Madge and Jem go?” asked Stephen, “especially if there’s snow on the ground.”
“Steve could talk to Mike if you like,” said Charles.
“Me?” asked Stephen surprised and Gil who was listening to them both, laughed out loud.
“Yes, he won’t take it from me, not if he’s been told off,” Charles told him, “Can we tell Madge but paraphrase it? She’s enjoying meeting her grandchildren for the first time, we don’t want her to feel she has to rush back, do you understand our dilemma?”
Stephen looked at the receiver with respect and Gil smiled.
“Yes, I just thought she should know.”
.
“Yes, we’ll tell her,” Charles spoke in an authoritative tone, “but we’ll leave the family to Michael, he is capable of dealing with everyone, and if you have a problem with him, remind him that Helena and Steve had to look after a greater number of younger children when they were still children themselves. Do you agree, Steve?”
“Yes, we’ll call Michael ourselves, later. Thank you for your help. Enjoy the rest of your Christmas, Mrs Walker.”
Charles took up the conversation, “ Merry Christmas, Mrs Walker, did Rob like his card? He never showed it to you? I wonder why! Goodbye.” He put the receiver down and chuckled, “What card?” Stephen came out of the Study and Charles grinned, turned back into the kitchen and returned with an envelope. “I’m giving that to Madge and Jem, have sent one to the Hags in Scotland for Davie, and sent one to Stella to give to Rory!” Stephen opened the envelope and laughed, “before or after this news?” He looked at the photo Charles had taken at the Christmas Market in Trier, “How much had they drunk?”
“I don’t know, but Rob was sick immediately after I took that, when the fresh air hit him.” Stephen passed it over to Gil who grinned and said, “You don’t think that your mother will go home?”
“Not if Margot’s ill,” Charles’s face became serious and sad and said, “We need to tell Connie and she can tell Helena.”
Gil looked surprised at their serious expressions and Stephen explained, “Margot was always the delicate one, she had bronchitis as a child and was always ill, she was the one they didn’t think would live to adulthood.”
“She was ill from birth?” asked Gil and Stephen said, after a moment, “No, that was Chas.”
“You were stuck between two sickly infants?” Stephen and Charles looked at each other and Charles said offendedly, “I’m healthy enough now, do you want to call Connie or shall I?”
“You can, I’ll tell them what’s happened,” Stephen said.
“Once we’ve finished the washing up,” said Gil and they both stared at him, “Gives you both time to process the news and how to deliver it, and if you are healthy enough now, so is your sister, she’s had one child?” he smiled at Charles who looked back thoughtfully and Stephen said, “He’s bright.”
“And right,” said Charles going back into the kitchen.
“What’s the matter with your sister?” asked Gil, he had enjoyed watching them work together, they complemented each other. He would need their support in learning to work with Nixon and he wished he could introduce Charles to his superiors. “She and her husband were stranded in their car on a country lame overnight because of the snow.” Charles waved a descriptive hand at the window with a grin.
“They’re both in hospital but Margot is in an Oxygen tent,” Stephen explained.
Precautionary with her medical history,” said Gil, “She’ll be safe enough, they’ll be using antibiotics. Why were they on a country lane? Not on the main road? Sounds as if they brought it on themselves!" Stephen looked startled and Charles just carried on washing-up. "They would have had blankets with them, and flasks of hot drinks and each other to keep themselves warm,” Gil continued practically and Charles had a flashback to Liz’s funeral and thought that none of them had been any the worse after that experience and nodded, relieved. “She is pregnant,” he volunteered and Gil said, “They’ll know that, they work with her. Tell your sister but don’t make a big thing of it.”
“Sir,” Charles saluted and Steve said, “I’ll tell Madge, and tell her not to rush back.”
“Show her that photo and say that the Walkers owe us one for me looking after their son,” advised Charles going into the study and Stephen shook his head before going into the sitting room.
9. Christmas Afternoon, the length of the British Isles
“She is my daughter and I would to see her,” Joey propped herself on her crutches, she found them incredibly difficult to use; between themselves the nurses had sarcastically suggested a Zimmer frame. “She's very ill,” protested Joey and the nurse said, “She's fine, we just put her in the tent to make sure, she’ll be out of it tomorrow and hopefully home in a couple more days,” She looked at Joey and said, “I think, for your sake, that you should not see her, you might find it distressing and that might distress her and you wouldn’t want that, would you?” Joey shook her head and the nurse smiled, “now you can exercise that leg. You need to get used to those crutches before we let you go, enjoy Christmas on the Ward.” She stood and watched as Joey turned awkwardly and hobbled back to her ward. Edward came out and said, “Thank you.”
“No problem, Inspector. Are you picking up your daughter today?”
“Tomorrow, She's coming here for tea, I'm being kept in another night. None of us expected that snowfall. I'll keep her away from Meg, don't want to worry her.”
“She'll be out of that tent tomorrow, the antibiotics are kicking in and she's doing well. We might keep her in till the end of the week, just to make sure she and the baby have come to no harm.” Edward nodded, his plans for the Christmas period were all shot. His parents couldn't get down from Yorkshire, his mother had been very upset over that, but he could now work over the New Year, if Margot was well enough.
“Dada,” a little voice interrupted him and he saw Emma toddling towards him. He ran forward and picked her up and hugged her, “Emma,” he said and she looked at him and smiled as he kissed her. “Dada,” she said and Edward noticed two women with her. One smiled, “I'm Linda Ellis, I was asked to help with Emma last night and this is Rebecca Florey, who has been looking after Emma. If you don't mind we just want to talk about the circumstances around Emma being left at home. Shall we do that now?” Edward nodded, “Merry Christmas,” he thought bitterly, at least it wasn't Adrian.
“Mrs Walker? It’s Adrian Scott, I don’t think I’ll make it, not with the snow....You don’t think?.....You spoke to Madge? Charles and Stephen....they said what?..... Yes, they are right...And Michael’s stepped up? Good, if it’s easier tomorrow I’ll check on them...Enjoy the rest if Christmas, bye.” Adrian sat back with relief, it was right that the older ones should step up. The phone rang again and he picked it, “Ady, coming for a snowball fight? We’re all going to the park and then the pub,” a familiar voice said, familiar to him though not to anyone in or reading this drabble, and he laughed, “love to, see you there.”
Stella smiled at Ewan and Jamie as they sat down with her at the party, “Happy Christmas, I see you had a good time in Germany, Ewan.” Ewan said, “Germany? What do you mean?” Stella got out an envelope and passed it over to Ewan who opened it. Jamie craning over to see said, “It’s you and Davie and Geoff and Rob, what were you singing?” Ewan reddened as Rory reached over and plucked the picture out of his hand and he laughed out loud, “Where did you get this?” he asked
“Charles,” Stella responded and he smiled, “”Bloody pest,” he said affectionately.
“What is it?” his friends came round and Rory showed it proudly round. “He wasn’t sick afterwards, the English boys were.”
“Have to have a replay tonight, you and Ewan against us. The English will win this time.” Ewan grinned at his father and Stella sat back and watched relieved as the Asquiths joined in the banter and she quietly thanked Charles for sending her the photo.
“Baggie, what are you wearing?”
“It’s a 1966 World Cup Winner shirt and it’s signed by Bobby Moore and Geoff Hurst,” Baggie stood wearing it proudly and Aggie looked at Taggie, “Where did you get it?” asked Taggie.
“A present from Sam, to thank me for the Penny Daintee book. He knew I liked football shirts,” Baggie paraded proudly in the shirt, and Taggie said quietly, “At four years old?” Aggie looked at the wrappings and picked them up to throw them away when a card fell out. She picked it up, opened it and smiled before handing it to Taggie who scrutinised it and said, “Cheeky monkey! Are we supposed to show this to Panmure?”
“I think so,” Aggie took it back, “Ewan looks happy at last.”
“Yes, it’s been hard for him and I think Davie’s helped him. Bless them both.” Taggie looked at photo and said, “Put it on the sideboard, then if we have visitors this afternoon they'll see it.”
“You’re almost as devious as Sam’s father,” Aggie smiled and Taggie replied demurely, “Yes, yes I am.”
10. Christmas Day - London
Madge said, “Are you sure the children are all right?”
“Yes,” Stephen and Charles spoke together and David said, “Mum, let it go, Mike is looking after them. He’s organised the gas board for tomorrow. I called Jack and he called back, Joey is getting used to the crutches, he’ll take her to Plas Gwyn tomorrow,” he glanced at Stephen and said, “I got him to promise me that and Margot and Edward are both recovering. Now, it’s Christmas and I want to see the family on Blue Peter. So sit back and enjoy it.” Madge looked round and Jem patted the seat next to him. She sat down, still worried and Jem said, “Let them deal with it, it’s not our responsibility.”
Sam whispered to Charles, “Can we go and watch this in the Man-Cave?”
“Just us?”
“No, Cecy as well, it’s too crowded down here.” Charles looked at him and said, “I’m sorry but not today. We’re supposed to be sociable and we can’t just leave everybody.” Sam’s eyes filled with tears and Billy overhearing this said, “I think I’d like to watch this in my flat, would you like to watch it with me, Simon?”
“Yes please,” said Sam and went up to him and Charles asked, “Would you like me to come with you as well?”
“You can’t leave your guests, we’ll be fine,” Billy said and Madge watched them go and looked at Lawrie who said, “He finds crowds a bit much at times, he's not used to big families.”
“I see,” Madge said to Charles “I suppose he's used to being with just you,” Charles nodded and said, “Not so much in the past year, this is a bit out of character, he's suddenly getting clingy and he was angry this morning.”
Madge smiled, “He's starting school in a couple of weeks, he's probably struggling a bit with that.” Charles looked at her and said slowly, “Yes, he could be, I suppose.”
“He was scared when we went to the Chalet School to collect Pippa and Cecy,” said Stephen and Cecilia nodded and giggled, “I’ve just thought, Adrian spent a night at the Chalet School. Would he be the first man to do that?” They all turned to Madge who said, “No, I don't think so, Mr Denny did.”
“But he was staff,” argued Cecilia and Madge said, repressively, “Blue Peter is starting, Lawrie are you presenting it now?”
“This show only,” Lawrie had ignored the conversation and was watching herself and smiled, she looked and sounded good.
“Here’s Felicity,” said Pippa eating her sandwiches and Michael said, “She looks pretty, her voice isn’t the best is it?”
“The acting and singing are secondary to the dancing in this role,” retorted Erica, “And she can dance, can’t she?”
“Here’s Cecy,” said Geoff lying by the fire, he'd enjoyed the sledding and then they'd had a snowball fight on the village green. Tomorrow he and Rob were going to build a snowman. He was happy, it had turned out to be a good Christmas, he was sorry that Margot was in hospital but everything said that she was getting better and he knew his mother would be here tomorrow, he decided to wait and see how she would cope, Auntie Madge would be home earlier, she wouldn't go to Scotland with all this snow. He watched Cecilia, “She’s good,” said Michael impressed and they all agreed.
Felicity watched with the rest of the cast who had had to rehearse with Rita, Cecilia’s replacement, “It was a shame, but then it’s a chance for you to make your mark,” the producer told Rita who was watching Cecilia’s performance carefully. “Now shall we run through those dances again?”
Felicity hesitated, her mother was singing but, “Fliss, come on,” shouted the Producer and she switched off the television and went to rehearse.
Charles and Stephen avoided each other’s eyes and Charles leaned forward to play with Rory who was curled up on his feet. Lawrie opened her mouth to give her opinion and Charles pressed her foot warningly. Rory raised his head and howled. Everyone burst out laughing, “Wrong choice of song,” said Gil and Charles looked thankfully at him. Lawrie brought the programme to an end and she nodded, she was satisfied with her performance. She would talk it through with Gil though, he may have seen something she’d missed. Sam came running in, “Uncle Billy’s sleeping, Cecy, you were so good."
"You were," said Gil and Cecilia blushed, she had been surprised at how well she had come across, Lawrie smiled at her, "You see why Hal wants to use you, he thinks you'd have a great career in television." Madge looked startled and Cecilia surprised. Charles smiled at her and said, "something to think about, if you are interested."
"and Mummy and Uncle Gil were good. Felicity was nice and I liked seeing All Rounders but Granny Jo was awful,” Sam continued Jem laughed and said, “I think Rory agreed with you, he howled at the song.”
“She can sing, it wasn't the right song for her,” Madge smiled.
“She should have sung a Christmas Carol,” said Lawrie and Gil agreed, “Her voice is better for that as Nicola’s was.” Lawrie looked at him and nodded and said, “Where’s Poppy?”
“In her crib asleep,” said Charles standing up, “Tea time? Anyone want a cuppa?”
“Yes please,” said Sam but David said, “We’re going now, Mum and Dad, do you want to come for the evening? Kes, you coming or going out?”
Stephen stood up as well and said, “I’m going home, I’ll call Howells, check on the family, saves you having to worry about them.”
“I’ll get a lift with you,” said Gil, “We’ll all meet tomorrow at the Pantomime, thank you for a lovely Christmas.”
“Yes, thank you,” everyone added as they got their coats. Charles acted as the perfect host and Cecilia helped carry the babies to the car. On her return, Charles smiled, “let’s go and relax now.”
“You don’t mind me being here?” she asked doubtfully and Charles shook his head.
“Can I ring Pippa?”
“Go ahead, try Plas Gwyn and then Felicity if you like. If you want privacy, use the study,” Charles said looking up at Lawrie going up the stairs. She turned and looked down, “Sam’s flaked out on the sitting room floor,” she explained and Charles popped his head to see Sam asleep, Rory curled up next to him and grinned, “Cecy, take as long as you like,” he called running up the stairs and Cecilia looked up, “What?” and coming out of the study, saw her brother closing his bedroom door. “Oh yes,” she said and went back into the study.
“Are we continuing from this morning?” asked Charles quickly undressing and getting into bed and he turned to kiss Lawrie, she returned his kiss and then whispered into his ear, he looked annoyed and turned his head, “Bugger off Lime Green Musers, we want a bit of privacy.” And then it struck him, “They’ve seen me naked! And you knew they were here.”
“Their Christmas present! Anyway, they can't see you, only read about you and use their imaginations." Charles smiled smugly and stretched out, "And I didn’t have time to say anything,” Lawrie retorted. She smiled generally and then turned to him and whispered again and he said, reluctantly, “Thank you for being with us over last couple of years, I hope you all have a Happy Christmas and survive into the New Year. What?” as Lawrie pulled his hair, “There’s Covid you know." He looked at her, "Her son tested positive this morning," he turned round again, "We’ll be positive as well and look forward to seeing you sometime next year, and now, Mrs Maynard, I think we were interrupted earlier today..."