Chapter 11

After lunch was over the group all assembled in the hall, and set off for the bus stop. The journey into the next town was a short one, and soon they were piling off the bus and splitting up to wander round the shops, as they each had gained a little money at Christmas to spend. They were all in high spirits, and the afternoon passed quickly, with much laughter. Then, meeting in the town square at the agreed time, they headed to a nearby café, where they ate. The meal was lovely, made better by the high spirits of all of them. Even Uncle Quentin, usually serious and slightly reserved, seemed inclined towards being cheerful today, and he joined in the conversation with gusto.

Suddenly Julian caught sight of the clock and gasped. "Buck up, everyone. The show starts in half an hour and we want good seats." Quickly they finished eating, and settled the bill.

…

The show was a splendid one, and everyone watched in awe at the skill of the acrobats and the tricks of the fire eater and the marvel of the trained chimpanzees. They laughed at the antics of the clown, and were amazed at the precision of the knife thrower. And then, to top it off, a face they knew appeared, performing tricks with the dogs.

"Is that…?" Julian asked, turning to Dick, and Dick nodded.

"I think so, though what she's doing here beats me."

Then they were shushed by someone behind them, and settled back to enjoy the rest of the show.

…

When it was over, they all filed out into the open air. It was almost dark now, and they decided that as much as they'd like to take a look around, they really ought to be heading back. Just as they'd made this decision, a familiar voice cried "so it is you! I thought it might was, but it's hard to tell in the lights."

"Jo!" Exclaimed Anne, and rushed to hug her.

"It was you!" Dick observed. "Julian and I recognised you instantly."

"Julian?" Her eyes flickered over the group till she picked him out, and then she rushed forward to hug him too, having already smothered Anne and George. "I didn't recognise you at first. You've been away so long. Why, you're almost grown up."

"And you're exactly the same!" He laughed. "Sorry it's been so long – too long, I know."

"Far too long," she retorted. "So long that I shouldn't forgive you for it… Though I might just be able to if you promise you'll all come and spend the day here tomorrow. There're no shows, so I can show you round and introduce you to everyone without being in a rush. Please say you'll come."

"Of course we will." Dick said, "We hadn't planned tomorrow yet. We'll spend it here, with you."

"Oh, good! Besides, I might need your help."

"Help? Jo, you aren't in trouble are you? Tell us now if you are."

"No, I'm not. I meant… Well, I might have a rather splendid adventure for us to solve."

And that was all she would say. Politely greeting Aunt Fanny and Uncle Quentin, she turned, and disappeared back into the night.

...

So, I haven't forgotten you guys! And I know this chapter is short, but I felt I ought to upload something.

Many thanks to everyone who's ever reviewed or favourited or followed, etc. You are amazing!

Especial thanks to Juliet-Echo, Book girl fan, and Summerseve5375. Also, Summerseve5375, I have tried to remember your advice and put it to use. Not always successfully, but the next few chapters I think I get a bit better at it... maybe...

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I hope you all had a splendid (I'm trying to find new words for amazing...!) Christmas and will have a simply marvellous New Year (yes, I realise it is now February).

All my love,

G4E