worst witch all at sea, the - the worst witch all at sea

8/3/2019 Worst Witch All at Sea, The - The Worst Witch All at Sea

1/186


2/186

PUFFIN BOOKS

The Worst Witch All at Sea

ill Murphy started putting books together (literally witstapler), when she was six. Her Worst Witch series, thrst of which was published in 1974, is hugelyuccessful. She has also written and illustrated several

ward-winning picture books for younger children.

Books by Jill Murphy


3/186

(Titles in reading order)

THE WORST WITCH

THE WORST WITCH STRIKES AGAIN

A BAD SPELL FOR THE WORST WITCH

THE WORST WITCH ALL AT SEA


4/186


5/186


6/186

PUFFIN BOOKS

Published by the Penguin Group

Penguin Books Ltd, 80 Strand, London WC2R 0RL, England

Penguin Group (USA), Inc., 375 Hudson Street, New York, New York10014, USA

enguin Books Australia Ltd, 250 Camberwell Road, Camberwell, Victor3124, Australia

Penguin Books Canada Ltd, 10 Alcorn Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, CanadM4V 3B2

Penguin Books India (P) Ltd, 11 Community Centre, Panchsheel Park,New Delhi 110 017, India

enguin Group (NZ), cnr Airborne and Rosedale Roads, Albany, Auckla1310, New Zealand

Penguin Books (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd, 24 Sturdee Avenue, Rosebank2196, South Africa

Penguin Books Ltd, Registered Offices: 80 Strand, London WC2R 0RL,England

www.penguin.com

First published by Viking 1993

Published in Puffin Books 1994

34

Copyright Jill Murphy, 1993

All rights reserved

The moral right of the author/illustrator has been asserted

Except in the United States of America, this book is sold subject to theondition that it shall not, by way of trade or otherwise, be lent, re-sol

hired out, or otherwise circulated without the publishers prior consenn an form of bindin or cover other than that in which it is ublishe


7/186

and without a similar condition including this condition being imposeon the subsequent purchaser

British Library Cataloguing in PublicationData A CIP catalogue record for this book is available from the British

Library

ISBN: 978-0-14-194148-6


8/186


9/186

violent snowstorm greeted the pupils of MisCackles Academy for Witches as theyreturned to school for the first day of theSummer Term.

There were two terms dividing the schooyear. The Winter Term, which began in

eptember, continuing until January, and the Summer

erm, which began in March, ending in July. With fiveolid months to each term, you can imagine how bleak elt during the middle months, when every minuteeemed like an hour, with no light flickering at the endf the tunnel.

The girls were used to appalling weather for the firstew weeks of the Summer Term because it was so earl


10/186

n the year, but this time it had surpassed itself.

Miss Cackle, the kindly headmistress of the school,watched from her study window as the pupils arrived in

nes and twos, battling to stay on their broomsticks,loaks turned inside out and summer dresses flappingwildly in the screaming wind.

Mildred Hubble, a second year, already renowned ashe worst witch in the school, lurched out of the yellowrey clouds with a crust of snow covering her

roomstick, cat, suitcase and summer dress, which was aew design this year.

Miss Hardbroom (Mildreds horrifically strict form-mistress) had decided that the old design of black andrey


11/186

hecks was too frivolous for the girls and had persuadedhe headmistress to have them replaced with nice,ensible, plain black. Miss Cackle had meekly agreed

with Miss Hardbrooms plan as she usually did (being aerson who always avoided any trouble), but she hadecretly rather liked the old uniform. The whole businead caused much merriment among the girls, who couldcarcely believe that anyone, even Miss Hardbroom,

ould consider black and grey checks and grey ankleocks to be frivolous.


12/186

Mildred wondered if she was actually frozen on to heroomstick as she struggled to steer it over the wall andnto the yard. She turned to check that her tabby cat watill with her, as the poor creature was terrified of flyingt the best of times and had been yowling his head off

or the whole journey. He was, but as they cleared theop of the gates by inches, the little cat attempted toump off, causing Mildred to crash-land into a deepnowdrift which curved in an elegant arc against one ofhe broomstick sheds. It


13/186

was quite sheltered in the yard and Mildred lay in thenow getting her breath back, watching the other pupilsoming in to land, most of them more successfully thanerself.

You are a ain T-T-Tabb said Mildred her teeth


14/186

hattering with cold. How am I ever going to getnywhere in this place while Im st-t-tuck with a cat likou?

Tabby shook himself, and snow sprayed overMildreds already snow-covered face. She even hadcicles hanging from the brim of her hat, and Tabbys futood out in little frozen peaks. They made a sorry pair

Maud, is that you? Mildred called out, as a hunchedundle of broomstick and baggage wobbled over the

wall and glided into the snow a few yards away.

Millie! yelled a voice which was unmistakably that oer best friend.


15/186

ncredible weather, isnt it? And they call it Summererm!

Mildred scrambled to her feet, brushed off as muchnow as she could and waded across to Maud, dragginger suitcase and broomstick behind her. Tabby had nowssumed his usual position, draped around Mildredshoulders like a fur stole.


16/186

Do you think they might light a few fires as a specialoncession? asked Mildred.

I shouldnt think so, said Maud. You know whatheyre like healthy fresh air at all times. What abouthe uniform then? Frivolous! I ask you!

The yard was rapidly filling up with pupils alltamping their feet to warm themselves and hoping thahey might be allowed inside instead of assembling in

he ard as usual. The made a rather dramatic si ht


17/186

otted about like crows against the glaring white.

The main door opened and Ethel Hallow, a memberf Mildreds class generally known for her bossiness,specially towards Mildred, appeared with a note whiche pinned to the door.

The note read:


18/186

I told you, said Maud grimly. And how did Ethel genside when were all out here? Thats what Id like tonow. Look at her, all dry and comfortable whenver one else is frozen stiff waitin to be summoned ou


19/186


20/186


21/186

t wasnt much warmer inside the school than ouin the snow-swept yard. There was no glass inthe castle-style windows, and there were littledrifts of snow in regular heaps beneath thewindow-ledges all the way along the corridor.

Miss Cackles door loomed ahead and Mildredslowed to a snails pace to put off the moment

when she would have to enter and see what she hadone now, ten minutes after the start of term.

She knocked very softly, hoping that she might not beeard.

Come in! called Miss Cackles cheer voice from


22/186

nside. Mildred pushed open the door and there wasMiss Cackle sitting at her desk with a glorious log firelazing in the grate.

Ah, Mildred, my dear, continued Miss Cackle. Comend sit here by the fire, you look absolutely frozen. I

want to have a little chat with you. Ghastly weather, isn?

Yes, Miss Cackle, agreed Mildred politely, feeling lesnxious as she noted the good-humoured tone of Missackles voice. Perhaps it was something perfectly

leasant after all, as Maud had said.Mildred sat down gratefully in a chair next to the

earth and Tabby jumped down from her shoulders andurled up so near the grate that his fur almost caughtre.

Tabby! called Mildred, clicking her fingers. Comeack here at once.

But the little cat was too intent on thawing out to obeis mistresss orders. Also thawing out were the icicles o

Mildreds hat and three of them descended

imultaneously to the floor with a gentle clinking soundNow then, Mildred, said Miss Cackle, pressing her

ngertips together and surveying Mildred over the top ohem. I wanted to speak to you about that little cat ofours. Sweet, isnt he?


23/186

Oh yes, Miss Cackle, said Mildred. Hes very sweet.

Not very good. I mean I cant get him to do anythingight and hes still petrified of flying, but hes very goodatured and

Yes, dear, said Miss Cackle. I can see that hes aharming little cat, but I was watching your arrival justow and I couldnt help noticing that you were pulledff balance by the cat as you came over the gates. Heeally is a

ather useless creature des ite his nice nature and he


24/186

ooks terrible too when were all on display hangingn by his claws, spread out flat, when all the other catsre sitting up nice and straight by now except for therst years kittens, of course. Yours has never really gotast the kitten phase, has he, my dear? And of course h

as completely the wrong markings for the school andooks very untidy next to the black ones.

Mildred stared at Miss Cackle, a wave of alarmpreading through her. Another icicle broke from her hand fell into her lap.

Anyway, dear, Miss Cackle continued. I waswondering if a more normal, regulation black cat mightossibly help you with your studies. One of the third-ear girls, Fenella Feverfew, transferred to Missentangles Academy last term and left behind herxtremely well-trained cat they have owls at Missentangles, so she had no use for a cat. You could haveif you like.

Mildred was appalled. She scooped Tabby from theearth and clutched him to her damp, unfrivolousummer dress, the remaining icicles tinkling on to the

oor as she did so.But what about Tabby, Miss Cackle! she exclaimed.

mean, its very kind of you to consider me like this, butve had him now for nearly two years and he dependsn me especially as he isnt very clever, and Im very

ond of him.


25/186

Miss Cackle smiled indulgently at Mildred, whoooked rather appealing standing in a puddle of meltednow, her clothes and plaits dripping wet, with theathetic little cat clasped to her heart.

Now then, dear, she said. Theres nothing to worrybout. Miss Tapioca, the school cook, was only telling

me this morning that the kitchen is having a mouseroblem and that she needs a good mouser. I would sayhat little Tabby here is just right for the job, wouldnt

ou? And it wont matter about his stri es tucked awa


26/186

ut of sight down in the kitchen.

But, Miss Cackle, said Mildred, Tabbys frightened omice. He doesnt

Nonsense, Mildred, laughed Miss Cackle. No cat isfraid of mice! What an idea. No, I think your work wilmprove no end if you accept my offer of Fenellas cat.

And Tabby will have the time of his life down in theitchen chasing mice all day and curling up by the rang

when hes tired. Off you go now. Miss Tapioca isxpecting you I rang her a moment ago. Run along,

ear, or youll be late for assembly. Miss Tapioca hasabbys replacement in a basket downstairs.

Yes, Miss Cackle. Thank you, Miss Cackle, saidMildred, trying unsuccessfully not to cry. She held Tabbven tighter and went out into the corridor, where the

cy wind struck her in the face as she left the warmreside behind her and closed the door.


27/186


28/186

he kitchen was in the basement of the schooIt was reached by several long, dark corridoand narrow staircases. It took about half anhour to get there from the dining-hall, which

explained why the food was always stonecold.


29/186

Now dont be scared, Tabby, Mildred sobbed into thttle cats rumpled fur. Ill work out a plan to get youack with me again. Ill sneak down and give you extraraining sessions so youll get better at flying, anderhaps I could make you a little black coat to hide the

tripes. I dont know why theyre being so funny abouthat now, after all this time. They gave you to me in therst place. Its not fair.

There was great activity in the kitchen, which, becausf its gigantic range, was mercifully warm. Over the

ange bubbled huge cauldrons of the atrocious porridgeo be served for the girls breakfast, after assembly.

Mildred stood unnoticed in the doorway watching theour undercooks charging about. Miss Tapioca, a largeerson, proportioned very much like a cottage loaf, wit

white hair bundled into a hairnet, sat at one end of thefteen-foot-long kitchen table looking up a recipe.

Ah, Mildred Hubble! she said, glancing up and seeinhe bedraggled Mildred lurking in the shadows. Haveou brought our new mouser? Come


30/186


31/186

nd show it to us, girl. Dont just stand there staring.

Mildred brought Tabby out from beneath her cloaknd held him up. The four undercooks had gatheredound as well and they all tickled him on top of his heand smoothed his wind-blown fur.

Just right for a mouser, said Miss Tapioca. And here

s Ebony in exchange. Much too intelligent and


32/186

well trained to be wasted in the kitchen. Well, put the

at down, Mildred unless you want to stay with himnd catch mice yourself?

She handed Mildred the basket. Mildred could see aair of brilliant green eyes gazing at her from thehadow inside. Tabby, nicely warmed up by the hot

itchen, had retreated to his favourite position roundMildreds neck. There was nothing else to be done,xcept to take the basket and go.

May I come and visit him? asked Mildred, her voiceuivering as she uncurled Tabby from her neck andlaced him in Miss Tapiocas arms.

I dont think that would be ver sensible Mildred


33/186

aid Miss Tapioca, holding Tabby in a very tight grip ashe little cat was grimly trying to get back on to

Mildreds shoulders. He will be much too busy chasingmice to spare any time for visitors. Off you go and takeare of Ebony now that really is a cat to be proud of.

oull forget this little scruff in five minutes once youveeen out flying with a cat like Ebony. Listen! Theres thell for assembly. Youd better hurry.

Mildred left the kitchen without looking back. Sheould hear Tabby yowling desperately as he tried toollow her. She dived up the stairs two at a time, ran toer room, dumped her suitcase, broomstick and the cat-

asket and s rinted the last few corridors to oin Maud


34/186

nd Enid marching into the Great Hall.

Hello, Mil, said Enid. Whats wrong?

Whats the matter, Mildred? asked Maud. You looks if something ghastlys happened.

It has, said Mildred, bursting into tears as quietly asossible, bearing in

mind the fact that they were on their way into assemblyll tell you about it later.

After assembly, during which Miss Cackle announcedhat lunch-break would be in the Great Hall instead ofhe yard because the snow was already several feet thickhe girls trooped off to their form-rooms, to be greeted

y their form-mistresses.Mildreds form were unfortunate enou h to be


35/186

resided over by Miss Hardbroom, the most terrifyingmistress in the school. She was a genius at reducing herupils to a gibbering heap with one withering glance.

No one ever dreamed of passing a note, or giggling, orven speaking, unless asked a question, during Miss

Hardbrooms lessons.

On the way to class, Mildred managed to tell Enid anMaud the sad news about Tabby.

Miss Hardbroom was sitting bolt upright behind heresk, waiting for the girls to settle, as they all filed intohe room and took their places, arranging books and

writing-equipment in their desks. The room was onlyractionally warmer than outside, and the girls discreetlyubbed their feet and blew on their hands in a futile

ttempt to warm themselves up.


36/186

Come along now, girls, said Miss Hardbroom. Stopll this silly nonsense. It isnt that cold. Lunch-break isnar away, and then you can all run briskly around the

Great Hall to get yourselves nice and warm. Anyway,irls, welcome back for the Summer Term Mildred

Hubble, what is the matter now?

Mildred looked at her feet, embarrassed by the tearswhich she could not stop from rolling down her cheeks

Its her cat, Miss Hardbroom, said Maud. Miss Cacklent it to be a kitchen mouser, and Mildreds got Fenell

everfews, because Fenella left it behind when she leftast term.

Well Mildred said Miss Hard-broom I dont know


37/186

what you are crying for. I would have seen it more as aause for celebration if I were you. Fenellas cat is anbsolute credit to the school. I hope we shall soon see a

marked improvement in your flying, without thatuisance of a tabby. Sit down and pull yourself together

t once.

I have an announcement to make, girls, sheontinued, which should cheer Mildred up considerably

Mr Rowan-Webb, the magician Mildred rescued from thchool pond last term, has written and asked if Mildred

nd her form would like to spend a week at his home bhe sea during the Summer Term, by way of a thank-youo Mildred.

There were gasps of delight from the girls, who allurned to Mildred with joyous comments.

It seems that we all have you to thank for this littlereat, said Miss Hardbroom, making it sound as ifMildred had done something wrong.

Mildred didnt know whether to smile or look solemn


38/186

Goodness me, girl, said Miss Hardbroom, notingMildreds anxious face. Surely the thought of a week athe seaside is a cheering thought?

Oh yes, Miss Hardbroom, sniffed Mildred, itsheered me up very much. But I was wondering if Iould bring Tabby with me as a little break from theitchen. I wondered if it would Her voice trailed awas she saw Miss Hardbrooms eyebrow arch into a slant,ke a poised spear.

There was no point in continuing. Mildred stared

own at her feet and tried to look suitably pleased abouhe holiday, which was difficult when trying not to cry.

Maud sneaked a hand under Mildreds desk andqueezed her friends arm. They both knew that aoliday would be no fun at all, with Tabby left behind

he kitchen wondering why Mildred didnt come toollect him.


39/186


40/186

radually, the weather improved. Itstopped snowing, the snow melted andsoon the girls were all out in the chillyplayground again, trying to devise newways of keeping warm. The holiday wasplanned for the first week in May and

veryone hoped that it might be warm enough by then

o swim and have some fun. Mildred was the only onewho didnt seem to be looking forward to the treat inny way.

I wonder if therell be a sandy beach, said Maud, ashey all stood ankle-deep in slush in the playground

uring lunch-break. and caves! said Enid.


41/186

And a whole week of sunshine so that we canunbathe and swim, said Maud. What do you think,

Mil?

Mildred doesnt think, said Ethel Hallow, who justappened to be passing by on her way to the library. Aeast, I didnt see much evidence of any thought lasterm.

Oh, do leave me alone, Ethel, said Mildred, hunchiner cloak up around her ears.

Not looking forward to our little treat then? Ethelontinued, in her usual sneering tone. I cant think whyhe whole things in honour of you, anyway. Yourelways messing everything up, youre the worst witch in

he school


42/186

Come on, Mildred, said Maud, trying to keep theeace. Lets go somewhere else and leave Ethel to herour grapes.

They all trailed across the playground and tried to geut of the wind by huddling in the broom-shed (which xactly the same as a bike-shed, except that it houses

roomsticks instead of bicycles).In fact, Ethels observations about the holiday in

Mildreds honour were very ill-advised. The wholencident


43/186

nding up with Mildred in the pond had been

ompletely due to Ethel in the first place. During theWinter Term, Ethel had changed Mildred into a frog.Mildred had hopped off to find help and beeniscovered by Miss Hardbroom, who had put her into aar in the potion laboratory. The frog-Mildred had

scaped from her jar and fled to the pond to hide, wherhe had met the magician, Mr Rowan-Webb, also turnednto a frog by enchantment. Mildred had rescued himnd made sure he was reinstated as a human, so he wasaturally very grateful to her, but Ethel was jealous of ahe attention and praise which had been heaped on

Mildred.


44/186

Whats up, Mil? asked Maud. Arent you even a bithrilled about the holiday? Miss Hardbrooms alreadyent off for our regulation swimming-costumes andathing-hats. I think its the most exciting thing thatsappened for years.

Sorry to be a wet blanket, Maud, said Mildred. Imust a bit fed up at the moment, thats all.

Dont worry, Mil, said Enid. Im sure youll be just alad as everyone else by the time we actually set off to

where is it? Whats the name of the place where the

magician lives?Gloom Castle, Grim Cove, said Mildred.

What a terrible name! said Enid.

Youre joking! exclaimed Maud.

No Im not, said Mildred. I saw it at the top of the

etter on Miss Hardbrooms desk. Sounds brilliant,oesnt it? I can just see us all frozen to death,

oing broomstick practice up and down 500-foot sheer

liffs in our swimmin -costumes an wa ust ima ine


45/186

what the swimming-costumes will be like! If MissHardbroom thought our black and grey checked dresseswere frivolous, goodness knows what shell come upwith for swimwear. Anyway, Im bound to get everythinwrong. Ethels right really I do mess everything up. I

m the worst witch in the school.

Maud and Enid felt awful. Mildred was truly down inhe dumps, and nothing they could say seemed to cheerer up. What they didnt know was that she had anotheecret fear like her embarrassing fear of the dark.

Mildred couldnt swim. She had never learned how to,nd even with armbands or a ring around her middle sh

was as terrified as Tabby on the back of the broomstick

Tabby was the other problem. She missed Tabby soreadfully that nothing could make her feel better othing except having Tabby back againand she didnnow how to work out a plan to rescue him.

Ebony, Fenellas cat was a first-rate cat, almost as goos Ethels. Mildred felt a twinge of disloyalty as sheoomed around the playground during broomstickractice with the perfectly


46/186

rained Ebony bolt upright behind her. It really was aelp to have a cat which was a credit to you. But atight, Ebony would set off through the window andlong the school wall for a night of hunting, whereasear, scruffy old Tabby had always spent the night curle

p either on Mildreds chest or round the top of her heake a fur hat. Enid gave Mildred a rather nice furryabby-cat hot-water bottle,


47/186

ut it only made her feel worse.

If only someone had invented a hot-water bottle thaturred, thought Mildred sadly, as she curled up underhe bedclothes in the dark.


48/186


49/186

very so often, Mildred made secret trips to the

kitchen in an attempt to visit her abandoned peHowever, the kitchen was always bustling withcooks and dinner-ladies, and so far she had onlycaught one glimpse of Tabby, looking rather thiand even more moth-eaten than usual, curled u

n top of a tall cupboard in a dark corner. Each time,omeone had noticed Mildred skulking in the shadows,nd shooed her away.

Meanwhile, the holiday at Grim Cove loomed nearerOne morning, Miss Hardbroom strode into the classroomwith a large box containing the swimwear so eagerly

waited b Mildreds class.


50/186

Their spirits sank as Miss Hardbroom held up one ofhe costumes for their inspection. It was like one of thosld-fashioned Victorian bathing-costumes, in black andrey stripes, with elbow-length sleeves and knee-lengthegs. The school badge, depicting a black cat on a yellow

moon, was embroidered across the chest, and to crownhis outfit was a close-fitting black swimming-hat.

Miss Hardbroom narrowed her eyes as her glancearted around the room.

Well, girls, she said coldly, I had hoped for slightly

more enthusiasm from all of you. Miss Cackle has goneo considerable trouble and expense to

it ou out with these su erb arments. In fact Miss


51/186

ackle has decided to join us for our exciting week onoliday. Isnt that wonderful? The remainder of theesson will be spent making cards for Miss Cackle, tohank her for your marvellous swimming outfits.

A faint groan of general disappointment rumbledround the classroom like distant thunder, as they alleaved open their desk-lids and rummaged around forheir coloured pencils.

That evening, the members of Form Two all tried onheir swimming-costumes in the wash-room before they

ot into their night-clothes. Mildreds

was sli htl too lar e and rather ba and Mauds was


52/186

nfortunately a little too tight, so that the school badgewas stretched sideways across her front. Needless to saythels fitted like a glove and even managed to lookuite smart.

I have four cups for swimming from the first school Ittended, said Ethel. We had a huge swimming-poolhere and I won cups for everything diving, life-savingelay racing and broomstick water-skiing.

Gosh, said Mildred. Whats broomstick water-skiing

Dont you know anything, Mildred Hubble? saidthel in her infuriatingly superior tone. Its easy-peasy.

ou have skis on both feet, like ordinary skis, then youe a piece of rope to the back of your broom, and offou zoom, holding on to the rope so the broomstickulls you along like a boat. We can have races at Grimove. Of course, Ill win, but its jolly good fun, even fo

ll the losers.Mildred wondered if she ou ht to confess to Maud th


53/186

he couldnt swim but it was so depressing constantlyeing hopeless at everything. She longed to say toveryone, Oh yes, Im brilliant at such and such. Let meelp you, instead of spending her whole life desperatelrying to memorize spells in the library and ending up i

Miss Cackles study explaining for the hundredth timewhy everything had gone wrong.

Also brewing in the back of Mildreds mind was alan to kidnap (or catnap) Tabby from the kitchen andmuggle him away on the holiday with them. Even if sh

ot into the most awful trouble on their return, she felt would be worth it to spend a whole week with hermuch-loved pet, and she really did want to enjoy theoliday, particularly as it was a result of one thing thathe had actually done right saving Mr Rowan-Webb,he kindly old magician, from a lifetime of frog-dom.

Are you up to something, Mil? asked Enid one eveningt dinner.

Yes, said Maud. Youve got that far-away, vague sorf look you get when youre thinking up some scheme

ther.What? asked Mildred vaguely, glancing up from a

hastly-looking plate of grey stew with a slab of yellowabbage in the middle.

I told you, said Enid. Shes up to something.

No Im not, said Mildred. And Im really starting toook forward to the holida now. I think were all oin


54/186

o have a very exciting time.

Not too exciting, Mildred, said Maud uneasily. Weont want any trouble, do we?

But Mildred wasnt listening. She was busily workingut the finer details of her plan to snatch Tabby twenty

minutes before take-off on their broomsticks for theight to Grim Cove.


55/186

uck was on Mildreds side for once. Miss Cackannounced that the journey to the magicianscastle would begin at dawn. Each girl would

have a packed breakfast to eat halfway througthe journey, which would be ready and stoweaway in their suitcase the night before. Miss

ackle also announced that, as it was a fairly long flightasting two hours, all pupils cats would be transportedn cat-baskets to save any accidents with sleepy or

ervous cats falling off into the tree-tops below.

his meant that firstly the kitchen staff would not be upnd about and secondly there would be a convenientlyark cat-basket in which to hide Tabby.

Mildred did consider telling Maud and Enid of herlan but she knew that the would be so anxious on he


56/186

ehalf that it would only worry them, so she decidedgainst it.

The morning of the holiday dawned. Mildred hadeen up and dressed for two hours, hoping that Ebony

would be back early from his night out hunting, as hewas sometimes out until long after dawn. Thankfully, ohis occasion, he was back twenty minutes before therst blush of morning light stole across the cloudy, greyky.

Mildred seized the elegant black creature as he

ositioned himself ready to spring from the window-edge on to


57/186

he top of the wardrobe. She bundled him into the cat-

asket and crept out into the deserted corridor.

There was a dim night-lantern burning at the end ofach corridor and at the head of each staircase, so she

was easily able to make her way to the kitchen, once heyes had adjusted to the gloomy light.

The kitchen looked stran e with no one in it all the


58/186

ots and pans hanging on their hooks and no firesurning in the cooking ranges. The only sign of life washe pattering of dozens of tiny feet as mice swarmed allver the tables and worktops looking for leftoverrumbs. Obviously Tabby was no use whatsoever in his

ew job.

Tabby, called Mildred softly. A shiver ran down herpine as she peered around into all the dark corners,uge creepy-looking cauldrons and storage cupboards

with doors half-open as if someone might be lurking

nside.Tab! she called again. Its me. Its Mildred, Ive com

o fetch you.

One of the cupboard doors creaked open and Mildredcreamed, her heart banging in her ears with fright.

An answerin Miaow! set her mind at rest as Tabb


59/186

ame pattering softly to greet her, a half-eaten kipperangling out of his mouth. The little cat was so delighteo see his mistress that he dropped the kipper andeaped into her arms, where there was much miaowingnd cuddling, and even weeping from Mildred.

Tabby settled contentedly around Mildreds neck as ifo say, Now where have you been all this time? and

Mildred bent down and unlatched the cat-basket.

Ebony stalked out looking rather annoyed at beinghoved into the basket and then unceremoniously

lonked out on to the cold, stone kitchen floor.

Off you go, Eb, whispered Mildred. Im taking Tabbor a little holiday, so you can stand in for him whilees away. Oh, Tabby, theyre all going to go mad whenhey find out. Perhaps they wont notice, with a bit ofuck. Still I dont care. Its worth anything to have youack, even for a week. Come on, youll have to go into

he basket or well be found out before we even et


60/186

here.

Tabby didnt mind going into the basket at all.Mildred could hear him purring like a car-engine as sheeaded for the kitchen door. As she heaved it open,everal mice skittered out from beneath the large tablend dived past into the corridor, pursued by Ebony.

Mildred giggled, Oh, Tabby, she said, scratching hisead fondly through the wicker bars.

Youre such a hopeless case. I have missed you.


61/186

peration Rescue-Tabby had taken longerthan Mildred had calculated, and she

arrived in the yard to find everyone,including Miss Cackle and Miss Hardbroomall lined up and ready to set off. They wer

tanding in rows, in absolute silence, as Mildred bursthrough the main door and clumped to her place in line

Ah, Mildred, said Miss Hardbroom crisply. How kin

f you to join us. Perhaps you had a little problemetting up so early in the morning?

Yes, Miss Hardbroom, agreed Mildred, relieved to berovided with an excuse. And then I had to wait forbony to come in from his hunting and then I couldnt

et him to go into the basket and then I couldnt


62/186

That will do, Mildred! snapped Miss Hardbroom. Ieally dont want to stand here all morning listening to ever-ending list of all the things you couldnt do before

we were graced with your presence. Now then, if Missackle is agreeable, we shall proceed to Grim Cove and

he splendid holiday which awaits us.

Miss Cackle smiled and nodded at the girls. Mostertainly, Miss Hardbroom, she said. Let us proceed atnce! We dont want to waste one moment of our jollyoliday, do we, girls?

Form Two let out a loud cheer of agreement.That is quite enough, girls! exclaimed Miss

Hardbroom. Miss Cackle doesnt want to be deafened.Now, Mildred Hubble, a word in your ear. Mr Rowan-Webb has kindly bestowed this holiday upon Form Two

ut of gratitude for your helpful action in saving himrom the pond. He obviously thinks most highly of you,o let us hope that you will not do anything whatsoevero disillusion him. Do you think you can manage anntire week without drawing any unwanted attention toourself? In other words, Mildred, no silly nonsense a

ight?Oh, definitely, Miss Hardbroom, said Mildred, feelin

istinctly nervous as she held the cat-basket containinghe wrong cat underneath her cloak.

Good, said Miss Hardbroom. Then let us depart.

thel, dear, lead on. Follow the river.


63/186

The girls commanded their broomsticks to hover andooked their suitcases and cat-baskets over the twigs athe back. Then they all arranged themselves side-saddleammed their hats on as firmly as possible and took holf their broomsticks some more grimly than others.

thel sat as upright as a telegraph-pole, her fingers


64/186

oosely curled around the stick. At the other end of thecale, Mildred was hanging on so tightly that hernuckles were white and she was almost bent double.

Ethel led the class over the wall and down themountain towards the shining river, which was like amauve and pink ribbon in the sunrise.

Gosh, Maud, said Mildred. It looks really beautiful ahis time of day, doesnt it? Perhaps well have

wonderful weather and it will be a great holiday after

ll.


65/186

It wont be if your cat doesnt shut up, said Maud,ooking back at Mildreds cat-basket, from whence aesperate yowling had just started.

Ethel swooped back alongside Mildred. Theresomething about you, Mildred Hubble, isnt there? shebserved unpleasantly. I mean, even a superb cat likebony goes berserk the

moment it falls into your clutches. Perhaps being worstt everything is catching you know, like measles.

She zoomed ahead again to take her place as leader ohe Form.

Miss Hardbroom and Miss Cackle were in front of

ver one and Mildred heard Ethel sa I ust went to se


66/186

f Mildreds cat was all right, Miss Hardbroom. Any cat ers seems to become nervous of flying even one likebony.

Thank you, Ethel, said Miss Hardbroom. Mosthoughtful of you, my dear Mildred! she called overer shoulder into the wind. What on earth is the matter

with Ebony?

Tabby was scrabbling at the basket and miaowing athe top of his voice.

He ate rather a large mouse, Miss Hardbroom,

eplied Mildred. I dont think hes feeling very well.Well take a look at him when we land for our

reakfast, Miss Hardbroom called back.

Mildred was horrified. They had not even arrived atGrim Cove and she had already got herself into the mos

wful trouble. One glimpse of Tabby, and MissHardbroom would probably expel her on the spot,oliday or no holiday.


67/186


68/186

fter an hour of flying, everyone was

beginning to feel exhausted and hungry.Although the sun had risen into a perfectlyblue sky, the wind was cold so high up, andTabbys desperate complaining wasbeginning to grate on everyones nerves.

Miss Cackle and Miss Hardbroom signalled to the girlso begin their descent to an area where a loop of river

assed through a wood with a large shingle bank onther side of the water.

Breakfast at last! whispered Maud to Mildred. Imarving.

Mildred wasnt listening. She was wondering how toet out of having Tabby examined by Miss Hardbroom.

Land at the shingle bank! called Miss Hardbroom, ashey descended like a flock of birds into the woodland.Only a quarter of an hour for our break, girls. We mustress on as soon as possible.

Miss Cackle and Miss Hardbroom landed perfectly,llowed by Ethel and the rest of Form Two, all except

ildred. Tabby finally stopped


69/186

owling as he and Mildred fell off into a dense thicketveral yards from the landing-place.

Im sorry, Miss Hardbroom, Mildreds voice calledpologetically from the middle of the bushes. Theres souch on the back of my broom, I think I must have puto much into my suitcase. At least Tab Ebonysopped making such a noise. He looks much better now,hat I can see of him in the gloom. I seem to be a bituck.

Shall I o and hel her Miss Hard-broom? asked


70/186

aud.

No, Maud, said Miss Hardbroom wearily. She turned the direction of Mildreds bush. Just stay where you

re, Mildred. I think the sight of you would put me offy breakfast at this moment. Well pull you out whene set off again.

Mildred breathed a sigh of relief as she wedged herselfto the branches of a rather prickly bush and rummaged her suitcase for her package of sandwiches.

It worked, Tab! she whispered. Theyve forgottenbout you. Now please calm down for the rest of theurney. I might break my neck if I have to make myself

ash a second time! Look, Tab, theyre tuna sandwiches,ou can have some if you like. I dont think youll be tooeen on apple juice though.

For a while there was no sound except the birdsnging and the rustling of paper bags as the girlsemolished their food. Somehow, whenever Missardbroom was present, no one ever dared to speak,though they were allowed to chat during meal timesrovided the noise didnt get too loud.

Ethel, said Miss Hardbroom, as they tidied away thereakfast things, would you kindly assist Mildred in heright among the bushes so that we may continue on oururney?

Ethel bustled about self-importantly, attaching a ropeo the back of her broomstick. Then she took off on theroom with a lasso of rope over her arm, rather like aowboy, and called to Mildred to get ready.

Mildred arranged her suitcase and cat-basket over theack of the broom and caught the rope, while Ethel


71/186

overed overhead. In fact, Ethel dropped the rope on toildreds head so abruptly that it nearly knocked her

ut.

Whoops! said Ethel. Silly me! Are you ready,ildred? One, two, three, UP! And she sped off at fortyiles per hour, while Mildred, plus broom and baggage,as jerked into the air flat out at the end of the rope,anging on for dear life.

Thank you, Ethel! called Miss Cackle, who wasatching with Miss Hardbroom. That will do, dear.ildred is well clear of the bushes now.

Fortunately, Tabby seemed less hysterical for thecond half of the journey. Perhaps he was exhausted,

ecause he curled up in the gloomy basket and fell fastsleep, even though the wind whistled through theickerwork and blew his fur the wrong way round.


72/186


73/186

ildred sat hunched on her broomstickfeeling tired and anxious. She wasbeginning to feel that the OperationRescue-Tabby plan had been a mistake.Even if no one noticed that firstly Tabbywas missing from the kitchen and second

bony had resumed residence, she wouldnt ever be ablo let Tabby out at Gloom Castle or everyone wouldnow. Perhaps she could just keep him in her room andnly let him out at night when everyone was in bed, or hey had to share a room she could choose Maud and

hen let her in on the secret.


74/186

There it is, girls! Miss Cackle called out so suddenlyhat everyone jumped. Theres the coast, and theres

Gloom Castle. What a spectacular sight!The coastline was indeed a spectacular sight, though

ot exactly what the pupils of Form Two had hoped for

For a start, the sun had disappeared


75/186

ehind ink-black clouds and it was just beginning toain. Then there was the coastline itself, which consisted

f mile after mile of amazingly high and rugged cliffsmeeting an angry-looking navy-blue sea amid a mass ofagged rocks and shadowy coves. The waves smashedgainst the cliffs, sending up clouds of spray so high thahe convoy of pupils and teachers could taste the salt in

he air.Look Mildred said Maud ointin to the castle


76/186

which was the only habitation in sight as far as theyould see.

Gloom Castle looked even more forbidding than Missackles Academy. Delicate scarves of mist and sea-spraung around its battlements. The windows were slit

windows, like the Academy, but larger so that morewind could howl up and down the corridors, andeagulls perched screeching on every roof-top and

window-ledge.

What seemed like several miles below was Grim Cov

with a tiny shingle and stone beach, a rather sinister-ooking cave, a small boat at anchor and a large rockhaped like a cats head about half a mile out to sea.here were hundreds of tiny steps cut into the cliff-face

eading down from the castle to the bay.

Mildred shuddered. No wonder they call it Grimove! she muttered, as a squall of rain hit them like awater-cannon.

Begin the descent, girls! Miss Hard-brooms militaryoice whipped along the wind. Head for the innerourtyard.


77/186

The descent was more difficult than normal, forarious reasons. First of all it was difficult to see wherehey were going, with their cloaks tying themselves innots and the blinding rain and wind in their faces, andecondly they did not know the layout of the castle and

were attempting to land in a small enclosed courtyardnside the battlements.

To do this, they had to hover like helicopters and incheir way downward. Even Ethel found it heavy going,

ut eventuall the all arrived in the rain-lashed


78/186

ourtyard, soaked to the skin and frozen stiff. Fortunateor Mildred nearly all the cats were yowling andcreaming with rage, as the rain had driven in throughheir baskets and drenched them. No one gave Tabby aecond thought.

The girls lined up in their usual rows trying to look aeat as possible under the circumstances, while Miss

Hardbroom smoothed her hair and robes and Missackle adjusted her hat.

Without any warning, the two carved wooden doors

eading into the

ard burst open, and there was Mr Rowan-Webb

tanding at the top of the stone stairs smiling at them.


79/186

Welcome! Welcome! he said, waving a hand into theark corridor behind him. What a foul day to make sucjourney. Come in at once and get yourselves warm.

He looked a lot better than when they had last seenim, which was at Halloween, when Mildred hadresented him to the Chief Magician, Mr Hellibore, ande had been changed from a frog to a human again.hen, his clothes were in rags, but now they were

magnificent a fine shade of emerald green with aottle-green cloak and pointed hat. The cloak was

eautifully embroidered all over with rainbow-colouredtars and moons.

Miss Cackle and Miss Hardbroom led the way up theteps into the castle and Form Two followed meeklyehind, leaving wet footprints where they trooped alonhe doors swung silently closed behind them, shuttingut almost all the light except for a dim lantern hangingn the wall every few yards or so.

They made a curious sight, walking in single file withheir broomsticks and bags hovering along behind themnd the disgruntled cats miaowing crossly from the

epths of the baskets. The dim lanterns threw hugehadows up the walls as they passed by.


80/186


81/186

Mr Rowan-Webb led them into a huge stone hall veryke the one at Miss Cackles Academy only moreparsely furnished and much more draughty. There wasreplace the size of an ice-cream van, but sadly no fire.

Do sit down, ladies, said Mr Rowan-Webb, indicatineveral faded sofas and chairs, most of them with theprings and stuffing hanging out. You must be worn oufter all that flying.

Miss Hardbroom turned to the pupils, who were

tanding in a soggy huddle, unsure whether ladieseferred to them as well as Miss Hardbroom and theireadmistress.

You may sit down, girls, said Miss Hardbroom. Tellour broomsticks to stand at ease.

So sorry about the weather, apologized Mr Rowan-Webb. Its usuall uite leasant at this time of ear.


82/186

Anyway, theres a nice fire to warm you all up until Ihow you to your rooms.

Everyone looked pointedly at the empty grate.

Mr Rowan-Webb looked too.

Dear me! he exclaimed. Do forgive me, ladies. I

eally am so absentminded these days.

He muttered the words of a spell, waved his arms athe fireplace, and with a whoosh! a glorious log fireppeared, banked several feet high and throwing outuch a fierce heat that those nearest had to back away.


83/186

Now then, where was I? said Mr Rowan-Webb. Ohes rooms. Ive given you three rooms in the west

wing. One small room each for you, Miss Cackle, andou, Miss Hardbroom, and a large dormitory for all


84/186

he girls. The girls dormitory only has camp-beds and

ushions and sleeping-bags rather a rag-bag of beddinm afraid. There are only two proper guest rooms withrass bedsteads, and naturally those are for the teachers

Never mind, its all fun on holiday, isnt it?

I shant be here during the week, though I shall come

ack on the last day. Im still visiting various friends andelations whom I havent seen for decades, since mywful incarceration in the Academy pond, and Iromised Aunt Ethelburga a few days of my time.

Now then, what else do I have to tell you oh yes,here is a boat in the cove, but I think its best not to taker out, as there are rather a lot of rocks round andbout. Any questions before you set off to unpack yourhings?

No one dared to speak.

Come along now, girls, said Miss Cackle cheerily.

Dont be sh . There must be somethin oud like to


85/186


86/186

Rock. I must say it would be rather handy to find it, ashe rock belongs to me and I could do with the moneyor a few repairs to the castle! Its so difficult to get to ity boat, what with the currents and rocks, that no oneas ever really bothered to investigate, especially as it

robably isnt a true story anyway. Any other questions?

No one else spoke.

Right, said Mr Rowan-Webb. If youve all warmed ubit, allow me to show you to your rooms.


87/186

he dormitory was even more depressing thanthe castle and the coastline. Form Two stood

and looked around in horror after they hadbeen left to unpack.

There was a row of glassless windows atither end, which made the room like a wind-tunnel.nough beds for all the pupils lined the other two walls

ut they were, as the magician had said, a rather poorssembly of camp-beds, heaps of cushions, moth-eatenoam rubber and ancient cardboard-stiff blankets. Theeds nearest to the windows were wet from the rain,

which sprayed and dripped its way in.

Ethel dived for the only proper bed with a mattress, ihe centre of one of the rows, and plonked her bags androomstick on top.

Bags I this one! she announced. What a dump!hanks for the holiday, Mildred Hubble. Its going to belaugh a minute. At least the Academy will seem like a

eal holida camp after a week in this place.


88/186

Mildred didnt reply, as the entire Form was nowcrambling for the best selection of beds.

Come on, Mil! called Enid, diving on to what lookedke an old hospital trolley. Theres a camp-bed next to

mine with two blankets on!

No there isnt! exclaimed Drusilla, a friend of Ethel,who barged Mildred out of the way and slammed herelongings on to the camp-bed with such force that itollapsed to the floor.

Mildred saw that the only place left was the worst onf all a woven rush mat with a mildew-colouredleeping-bag, laid directly underneath the window.

Thanks for trying, Enid, said Mildred, arranging heruitcase and broom against the wall and sitting down onhe mat with the cat-basket hugged to her chest.

All the other members of Form Two


89/186

were busily letting out their cats for a stroll and a stretc

nd the room was suddenly full of black cats miaowingnd entwining themselves round their owners legs.

Arent you going to give Ebony some exercise? askedMaud from her position four beds away, as she cuddleder own cat, Midnight.

Mildred shot to her feet.Er, I think Im going to take him to Miss Hardbroom,

he said. Just in case he really is ill after making all thaoise on the way here.

And before anyone else could comment on the matte

he seized the basket and rushed out of the room.


90/186

Outside in the dark corridor, she stopped toontemplate what she was going to do with Tabby, nowhat they were all stuck in the same dormitory. If Ethelr Drusilla or anyone except Maud and Enid found outhat she had defied the headmistress to bring Tabby, she

would be in serious trouble.

As she stood and looked out of the window at theove far below, she saw the boat bobbing up and downttached to a small breakwater, and a plan dawned iner mind like the thin shaft of sunlight which pierced th

nky clouds above the castle.Come on, Tab, she whispered. Youre not going to

ke this one tiny bit, but its the only solution.


91/186


92/186

aud carried her cat across to Enids trolley

and sat down next to her friend. Enidlooked up from sorting out piles of greysocks and underwear.

Mildreds up to something, said Maudarkly. I just know it.

Well, I wish shed let us in on the secret, said Enidrossly. Shes been really strange for weeks sort ofague and not quite with it.

A shriek of laughter rang out from Ethel, who hadverheard.

Do forgive me for stating the obvious, Maud, she saibut Mildred Hubble is ermanentl va ue and not uit


93/186

with it. If I were you, Id start worrying if she wasuddenly alert and getting A plus for everything!

Oh, do stop it, Ethel, said Maud. No wonder Mildre

ets in such a state with the likes of you hurling insults er all the time. Anyway, you shouldnt beavesdropping on other peoples conversations. Its notight. Come on, Enid, lets move up to the other end soo one can hear us.


94/186

If they had glanced out of the window at that momenhey would have seen Mildred, plus her cat-basket,

making her way with great care down the cliff-face tohe cove.


95/186

he rain had eased off to an unpleasant misty drizzle,which covered Mildreds clothes and hair in a fine net oroplets. The wind had suddenly abated, which madehe descent far less terrifying than Mildred had expectedhough the wooden handrail had rotted away in placesnd the steps were very slippery from the rain and sea-pray.

Althou h she was most relieved to arrive all in one


96/186

iece on the pebbly beach below, the sight of the sinistereakers relentlessly pounding into sizzling foam as thelawed at the shingle made Mildreds heart begin toound like the waves themselves.

Beyond the cove, which was actually quite shelteredrom the wind by the height and shape of the cliff, theea swelled alarmingly, as if a gigantic monster wasreathing just beneath the surface and the strange Cats

Head Rock sat bang in the middle of the horizon withwhite crests appearing where the waves dashed against

.What a truly awful place, Tabby, whispered Mildred

nto the wicker


97/186

asket. I should have left you in the nice warm kitchennstead of bringing you here. Im so sorry, little cat. Whamistress youre lumbered with and to think that

Miss Cackle thought I was stuck with you.

First of all, Mildred examined the cave in the hopehat it might be full of nice dry ledges and crannies, but

was unfortunately very shallow, more like a wind-lown sentry-box, with not one projection in the rock toide a cat-basket. The boat was the only other hope.

Mildred opened the basket and let Tabby out for a

un. Tabby looked most unimpressed by the sight of somuch water, and stalked off to examine the cave, leavinMildred to edge along the breakwater so that she couldake a good look at the boat.

It was bigger than it had looked from Gloom Castle.

here were two benches for rowers to sit on and at onend was a little cabin with a tiny door and window. Aair of oars was neatly lashed to the inside of the boatnd


98/186

here was a lifebelt on the side of the cabin, which madMildred feel a little less panic-stricken.

Very carefully, Mildred lowered herself into the boat,which rolled alarmingly until she had found her balanc

pened the door into the cabin and squeezed herselfnside.

It was surprisingly snug. The rhythmic movement ofhe waves and the muffled slapping of the water evenelt quite soothing after all the howling wind and rain.

eally did seem the perfect place to hide a striped catwho shouldnt have come on holiday in the first place.


99/186


100/186

heres Ebony, Mil? asked Maud, as Mildrearrived back in the dormitory carrying the

cat-basket with the door open. Hes allright, isnt he?

I dont know, said Mildred. He jumpedut when I was on my way to Miss Hardbroom, andisappeared out of the nearest window along theattlements. I expect hell be back soon. Hes a moredventurous cat than Tabby.

At least that parts true! she thought miserably, feelinerrible at telling such an appalling amount of lies to heest friend.

I think Miss Cackle should have let you keep that

moth-eaten stri ru eered Ethel whose clothes were


101/186

ow all folded into regimented piles on top of heruitcase at the end of her bed.

No wonder poor old Ebonys made a bolt for it!Mildred had been working very hard on her spells an

ould now remember word-perfect the spells to changeeople into pigs, snails, frogs and centipedes, plus thentidote spells to change them back. She was sorelyempted to lash out and turn Ethel into a centipede foren minutes but mana ed to restrain herself when she


102/186

emembered the other occasion, in her first term, whenhe had got into the most awful trouble with Miss

Hardbroom for changing Ethel into a pig.

Just at that moment, as if to remind Mildred that itwouldnt have been a good idea at all, Miss Hardbroommaterialized in the middle of the room.

Excellent, Ethel, she said, a wave of her bony handndicating Ethels neat pile of belongings. If only you alad such organized brains as Ethel Hallow, Form Two.thel could make a rubbish tip look like an army

arracks even her cat knows how to arrange itself witaste.

Ethels cat, Night Star, was sitting bolt upright with hiead slightly bowed on top of a pile of cardigans,ooking like a statue from a museum.


103/186

Yuk! whispered Mildred to Maud. Doesnt she makeou feel sick?

I do hope you arent referring to me, MildredHubble? said Miss Hard-broom icily.


104/186

Oh no, Miss Hardbroom, said Mildred, blushing.Then who were you referring to, Mildred? asked MiHardbroom.

Ethel Hallow, Miss Hardbroom, muttered Mildred.

Envy of Ethels superior qualities will get you

bsolutely nowhere, Mildred Hubble, snapped MissHardbroom. Apologize to Ethel, please.

Sorry, Ethel, mumbled Mildred.

Thats all right, Mildred, Ethel said, smiling sweetly.We all know you cant help it.


105/186

Now then, girls, said Miss Hardbroom. The rest ofhe day is yours to study and rest after the long flight.hen we will have an early bedtime and hope that the

weather is a little less bracing tomorrow so that we canlay some games and sports on the beach.

Having said this, she vanished.

Everyone stood around, looking nervous. No oneared to speak for several minutes, as they were neverure if she was still there or not.

Ethel was the first to speak, saying, just to be on theafe side, Well, Im going to sit on my bed and brush up

n my chanting. Weve got a test during the week,oliday or not.


106/186

Good girl, Ethel, Miss Hardbrooms approving toneswafted through the room making everyone jump.


107/186

There was a hasty scramble as the pupils of Form Twll dived for their beds and took out their spell andhanting books and arranged themselves in as studious-ooking positions as possible.

After a while, everyone relaxed and began chattinggain.

What will you do if Ebony doesnt come back? Enidalled across the other beds to Mildred.

Oh, hell be back, said Mildred vaguely. And even ifes gone for a few days, Im sure hell be back in time o home.


108/186


109/186

hen Mildred woke up the next morning sh

had a stiff neck from sleeping beneath thewindow. She sat up to peer out throughthe mist and saw a watery sun lurkingbehind the clouds.

Her first thought was for Tabby, and she crept out of

er slee in -ba and clambered into her s orts-kit of


110/186

rey aertex shirt, knee-length black shorts, grey socks anlack plimsolls. (Miss Hardbroom and Miss Cackle hadecreed that everyone was allowed to wear sportslothes for the entire holiday.) As it was still very earlynd rather cold, she wrapped her cloak around her

houlders and tiptoed out of the dormitory.

Seagulls screamed and wheeled

round her as she picked her way carefully down theickety steps to the cove. To Mildreds delight, the sunad burnt through the clouds and the mist rolled backcross the sea, as if an invisible hand was rolling up a

ar et before her ver e es and there below her la the


111/186

ea, sparkling and calm, the boat gently bobbing like aath-toy at the end of the breakwater.

Mildreds spirits lifted like the mist as the sun warmeer tousled morning hair, and she watched the sea turn

luer by the minute. It seemed a completely differentlace from yesterday.

Tabby was curled up on a pile of rope inside thehelter at the end of the boat. Mildred could see him ashe peeped in through the window.

Good morning, Tab! she said, opening the door. Iverought your break-fast.


112/186

Tabby sprang on to her shoulder with one bound andubbed his head against her neck. He certainly seemedone the worse for his night on board the boat.

Mildred unwrapped the little parcel of food which shad brought. She had saved three fish fingers and a lumf soggy mashed potato from dinner the night before. In

act, it was nearly all the dinner, as they had only hadve fish fingers to start with, as well as baked beans, buhe knew Tabby didnt like baked beans, so she hadratefully eaten those herself. She had also brought som

milk mixed with water, in a plastic bottle she had saved

rom their breakfast on the flight to the Castle.


113/186

Mildred went and sat on the shingle beach andwatched Tabby exploring the seaweed.

Id better get back, Tab, said Mildred after a while.

The ll all come to investi ate if the know Im down


114/186

ere so early. Ill leave the window open a bit, so youont get too hot. At least theres a nice breeze on theea. Ill come back this evening and let you out again.

Dont you worry now.

Tabby wasnt at all keen about going back into theabin. Mildred had to rugby-tackle him and stuff himrotesting back inside.

Everyone was up and in the middle of dressing whenMildred arrived back in the dormitory.

Well, fancy that, said Ethel. Mildred Hubble the eariser. Been practising your broomstick water-skiing haveou?

Something like that, muttered Mildred.

What a terrific mornin ! exclaimed Maud smilin


115/186

oyfully as she looked out of the window. MissHardbroom just came in and announced that were topend the whole day on the beach! Weve all got ourwimming-costumes on under our PE clothes, Mil. Youdetter get yours on too oh, and dont forget to bring

our swimming-hat and your broomstick. The magicianrranged for us to have breakfast on the beach as apecial treat!

Not too near the boat, I hope! thought Mildred,nxious that someone might hear or see Tabby.

Miss Cackle and Miss Hardbroom were waiting for thmembers of Form Two in the little courtyard.

Good morning, girls, said Miss Cackle, beaming. Suclorious weather, after yesterday.


116/186

I hope youre all very grateful to be here having this

wonderful holiday, snarled Miss Hardbroom, makinghem all feel guilty as usual.

Yes, Miss Hardbroom, chorused the girls.

Yes, yes, Miss Hardbroom, said Miss Cackle. Im surwere all delighted to be here. Now then, as we all have

ur broomsticks with us, we may as well fly down to thove instead of using those rather worn-looking steps. M

Rowan-Webb has left a veritable feast of a breakfast onhe beach, so the sooner we get down there the better, Iay! Take it easy on the way down the cliffs are very

teep. I think we should hover our way down rather thattempting a nosedive.


117/186


118/186

reakfast consisted of the most delicious array offood. The girls were dumbfounded at the amountof choice. In fact, there was usually no choice atall, just grey porridge looking like half-setconcrete.

Dont just stand there gawping, Form Two, said Missrdbroom. Take a plate and anything you require.

yone would think youd never seen food before.The feast was spread out on two long trestle-tables.ere were several jugs of orange juice, two silver dishesl of kippers (Mildred made a mental note that she

ust get one or two for Tabby), ten silver racks stuffedth toast, pots of butter, four huge jars of marmalade,o pots of Marmite, three silver dishes full of crispycon, a large dish of grilled tomatoes and two moreaves in case anyone was still hungry.

There was also a large pottery urn full of Cornflakesd two pottery jugs full of milk, plus several bowls ofgar. The bowls and plates were all a beautiful shade ofdnight blue with tiny gold stars on them. The girls stilldnt quite dare to help themselves.

Tuck in, girls! announced Miss Cackle. Im certainlyt going to wait a moment longer!

This was the signal they all needed and soon there was

noisy bustle of spoons and bowls being grabbed ander one was ilin u as much food as the could cram


119/186

to their plates.

Steady on, Mil! said Maud, as she noticed Mildredempting to hide three kippers underneath twoategically placed pieces of toast.

Im starving this morning, said Mildred. It must bee sea air!

She had a plastic bag in the pocket of her voluminousorts, and managed to slide in all three kippers with the

nimum of mess while no one was looking.After the girls had eaten everything in sight and wereling around feeling so full that they could hardlyeathe, Miss Cackle clapped her hands and chanted theords of a spell no one had heard before. At once thestle-tables took off like a pair of giant seagulls andw back up the cliff, where they disappeared out ofht into the castle.

Mr Rowan-Webb lent me that spell, girls, said Missckle, as part of our breakfast treat no washing-upanyone this morning!

Form Two cheered loudly.

Now then, girls! announced Miss Hardbroom. First of

, a word of warning. When your broomsticks are neare water their ma ic owers are far less efficient. That


120/186

to say, they dont work so brilliantly when their magicdamp. Of course in some peoples cases, they dontork too brilliantly even in ninety degrees of heat. Heree shot a glance at Mildred, who dropped her eyes toe beach, feeling aware of the illicit kippers congealingher pocket. For this reason, Miss Hardbroom went, you will find it difficult to keep your broomsticksble directly above the water. However, if the

oomsticks are hovering a good few feet above theves, they will be strong enough to pull you alonghind on water-skis. Miss Cackle and I have stored thehool skis in a crate in the cave, which you will seehind us. There are enough pairs to fit every girl, pluse piece of rope each. Please go and collect these itemsd come back to me.

Thank goodness I didnt hide Tabby in the cave,ought Mildred, as she joined the scrum of pupils

abbing their equipment.

This should be fun! exclaimed Enid, emerging ladenm the cave just as Mildred was going in.

Has anyone tried broomstick water-skiing before?ked Miss Hardbroom once the girls had lined up one beach with all their gear.

I dont mean to boast, Miss Hard-broom, simperedhel, but I was champion at my junior school.

Excellent, my dear! enthused Miss Hardbroom. Thenrhaps you could show your fellow pupils what isquired.

Ethel set about fixing the length of rope on to the backthe broomstick. There was enou h s are to leave


121/186

veral feet of rope, which she tied into a handle at theher end.

Shall I give a demonstration, Miss Hardbroom? askedhel.

Thank you, Ethel, said Miss Hardbroom. That wouldmost kind.

Ethel took off her sports clothes to reveal her stripedthing-costume. She bundled her hair into the black

thing-hat and carried her broomstick and the skis toe shallow water at the edge of the beach.

Hover! she commanded her broom, which remainedeless in her hands. Miss Hardbroom it wont hover!hel was close to tears. This has never happenedfore, Miss Hardbroom Miss Cackle, Im so sorry!

Dont worry, Ethel! called Miss Hardbroom. Youveobably forgotten that its a little too close to the water.ld it above your head, dear.

Ethel laughed to hide her mistake. She held theoomstick as high above her head as possible whilending on tiptoe.


122/186

Hover! she commanded. This time the broomsticks perfectly happy to remain in mid-air. Stay! Ethel

andished a finger at the disobedient broom.

Then she sat in the water, pulled on her skis, andnched up so that her shoulders were under the water.e held on to the handle at the end of the rope. Offu go! she called.


123/186

The broomstick shot off like a rocket.

Ethel rose out of the water, perfectly balanced on thes and roared away, skimming the water in a cloud of

ray. She executed a figure of eight, almost touching the

ter as she leaned into the curves, then came back

the beach in a straight line, sinking gracefully into theves at the edge of the shingle as she arrived.

Stay! she called to the broomstick, which screeched tohalt at once and remained hovering patiently in mid-, with the rope dangling into the sea.

Was that all right, Miss Hardbroom? asked Ethelrnestly.

Superb, Ethel! replied Miss Hardbroom. Quitemply, superb. Now then, Form Two, lets see if you can

raise yourselves to Ethels standard by the end of theek. Of course, I realize that it is unlikely, but you canleast try. I will be joining you for a spin later in the

orning. Will you be joining us, Miss Cackle?

Miss Cackle looked appalled.

Er! Oh no, I dont think so, Miss Hardbroom! she

swered, looking embarrassed. Ill be going in for aick dip though if the weather stays pleasant!

The girls exchanged delighted glances as theyagined Miss Cackle in a swimming-costume.

The sea-level will probably go up several feet if Missckle goes swimming! giggled Mildred.

What was that, Mildred? asked Miss Hardbroom.

Um I was just discussing the er the laws ofence! replied Mildred. You know: when you putnes in a jar of water and the water-level goes up. I

as wonderin if ou know with all this sea-water


124/186

ound we could try a little experiment later on, to see if

Im glad to note that you are suddenly so fascinatedth the laws of science, Mildred, said Miss Hardbroom.must set you a little test to occupy your inquiring mind

case you get bored on the holiday.Thank you, Miss Hardbroom, said Mildred.

Maud and Enid prodded their friend as they allppressed a major fit of the giggles.


125/186

uch to Mildreds surprise, the rest of theday was extremely enjoyable. Even MissHardbroom seemed relaxed and almostfriendly as the sun beat down on the

sheltered beach and the waves danced onthe shingle.

Much to Form Twos delight, Miss Cackle emergedrom the cave, which she had been using as a privateressing-room, wearing an extremely tight knee-length

athin -costume made of black and re s otted


126/186

material, which showed every bulge. She was alsowearing a frilly black bathing-hat made of droopingubber petals, like a giant chrysanthemum.

Super day for a dip, girls! she called as she pickeder way painfully through the pebbles and plunged intohe sea, sending up a cloud of spray like a big dipperrashing through the water trough.

This is the life, eh, Mil? said Maud as she floated paMildred, who was hopping along on one foot, makingwimming motions with her hands in the hope that no

ne would notice her deficiency in the swimmingepartment. Even Miss Hardbrooms having a sneakyunbathe look.

Mildred screwed up her eyes against

he glare. Sure enough, Miss Hardbroom, though stillemurely clad in a calf-length black dress, was sittingeaning against a rock with her legs stretched out in theun and no shoes or stockings!


127/186

Cor, look at that! said Enid. No stockings! Whateverext!

Miss Hardbroom stood up at that point and looked oo where the three girls were standing. They all jumpednd turned away.

Come on! said Maud. Start swimming again. Sherobably heard every word.

She certainly did, Maud Spell-body, hissed MissHardbrooms voice from behind them. So youd bettere careful what you say.

The three friends spun round and there was MissHardbroom doing an elegant crawl behind them. Shewas now wearing a close-fitting mauve bathing-hat and

lack knee- and


128/186

elbow-length swim-suit with a purple V set into theront. The whole transformation had taken place within

he space of half a minute.After Miss Hardbroom had joined them, no one felt

nclined to splash about or have any more fun, andveryone was soon grimly swimming up and down inilent rows before sedately getting out and sitting on the

each, wrapped in their towels.


129/186

As the evening approached, Mildred didnt have a chanc

o sneak the kippers across to Tabby, with the boat inull view of everyone. In fact, it was rather embarrassings the kippers were beginning to smell awful after a daf being crammed into Mildreds shorts.

Mildred tried to hang back as everyone settled on toheir broomsticks and began flying back to the castle innes and twos. Unfortunately, Enid and Maud waitedoyally as their friend took ages rolling up herwimming-costume in a towel, then purposely droppingand rolling it up again and retying her plimsolls three

mes in a desperate attempt to be the last one left on

he beach.


130/186

Come on, Mil! said Maud. Were having dinner asoon as we get back. Everythingll have gone by the timou get your laces perfect.

There was nothing for it but to go back to the castle,ippers and all, and return later when no one wasooking. At least she could sneak some more food anderhaps some milk for Tabby.


131/186

n opportunity presented itself at dusk, asForm Two were having an hour of leisurebefore going to bed. Maud was darning ahole in the toe of a sock and Enid wasreading a manual on broomstick water-skiing, while the rest of the girls were

ustling about, similarly employed. No one seemed tootice as Mildred slunk out of the door and made her

way to the cliff steps.

She was halfway down when, to her horror, a voicealled out from behind, making her jump out of her

kin. It was Ethel.


132/186

Hey, Mildred, she called. Mind if I join you?

Er no, said Mildred. Of course not.

Where are you off to then? asked Ethel with annpleasant smile. Its a

it dangerous on these steps, so I thought you mighteed some assistance with whatever it is. You know howlumsy you are!

Ethel managed to say all this in a light, sincere tone ooice. If you hadnt known her, you would have thoughhe was genuinely concerned, instead of nosily trying tond out something secret.

I was just going for a stroll on the beach, Mildredmprovised. Ive got a bit of a headache, thats all.

Then why didnt you go to Miss Hardbroom? asked

thel. Shed have iven ou an as irin or somethin . N


133/186

think youre up to something Mildred Hubble and Imoing to get Miss Hardbroom and tell her, before its tooate and you get us all into trouble.

They had reached the bottom of the steps by this tim

Look, Ethel, said Mildred. If I tell you, will youromise not to let on? Even Maud and Enid dont know

Ethel considered the matter. She felt quite pleased ateing let in on a secret which even Mildreds best friendidnt know about.

All right, she said. I promise.

OK said Mildred, racking her brains for a goodtory. You remember the story about the treasure out oats Head Rock? Well, I was going to go out there, onhe boat, and have a little look around to see if I couldnd it. Its a nice calm evening and it seemed a good

dea. I thought the magician would be really pleased toave the treasure to buy things for the castle. I wasntoing to go now, maybe a bit later when everyonessleep. I was just going to have a look to see if the boateaworthy.

Ethel stared at Mildred.Well, I think its a dreadful idea, she said. The

magician told us not to use the boat, and youd probablwreck it or something anyway, there probably isnt anreasure at all. I say, Mildred, you do smell awful. Dontou think it would be more to the point if you went

ack to the castle and had a bath? You smell like a crat


134/186

f rotting fish.

Actually, said Mildred, I sat on a kipper this morninnd havent had time to wash my clothes. Perhaps youright about the plan to get the treasure. I think Ill goack to the dorm and forget all about it.

They set off on the long climb back up the steps, Etheeading the way. While Ethels back was turned, Mildredook the kippers from her pocket and lobbed them on the deck of the boat, meaning to come back after dark

nd give them to Tabby in the shelter. The window wasust too narrow for him to squeeze out, though Mildred

ad seen him looking out during the day. Amazingly, none else had noticed, and any mewing had beenrowned by the sound of the waves and seagulls and thhouts of the girls.


135/186

Miss Hardbroom looked out of her window at theerfect evening sky and decided to take a broomstickide. She rarely felt quite so pleased with life as she did

oday. For some reason, the warm weather and theelights of sea-bathing had made her feel completelyelaxed. Even the girls did not irritate her quite as muchs usual except for Mildred Hubble of course. Mildred

would have irritated Miss Hardbroom whatever the

weather was like. There was something about the girlhat just got to Miss Hardbroom, like a scratchy labelewn into the neck of a dress. It even annoyed Miss

Hardbroom that they were only invited on the holiday ihe first place because of Mildreds action in saving Mr

Rowan-Webb from the pond. However, putting all

rritation aside, Miss Hardbroom swirled her caperound her shoulders, commanded her broom to hoverutside the window, and the cat, which was aarticularly beautiful, smooth, black one with olive-reen eyes, named Morgana, to sit on the end, and

owered herself on to it gracefully.Away! she commanded. To the cave.


136/186

Mildred and Ethel had just reached the top of the stepnd they both ducked as Miss Hardbroom zoomed overheir heads, rather like one of those low-flying fighterlanes that sometimes appear from nowhere whenoure out walking in the country. Miss Hardbroom didot see the two girls as she nosedived down the cliff-facnd pulled up to a perfect landing next to the

reakwater where the boat was tied.


137/186

A chilly breeze was coming from the sea and MissHardbroom wrapped her cloak around her as she put throomstick into the cave to keep it from getting wet.

At once, Morgana sprang purposefully on to thereakwater and ran along to the boat. She had smelt theippers and couldnt wait to investigate. Miss

Hardbroom was intrigued to see the cat disappear intohe boat. She was even more intrigued when she heard

esperate yowling and saw the scruffy-looking Tabbymadly trying to squeeze himself out of the few inches open window in the shelter. Poor Tabby was frantic witunger and the sight of Morgana eating his evening mea

was too much to bear.

Miss Hardbroom climbed aboard the boat tonvesti ate. She reco nized Tabb immediatel and her


138/186

yebrows knitted together like storm-clouds as she mader way through the boat to the shelter. A slight breezead come up and the boat was bobbing and swaying,

making it difficult to keep her balance. Miss Hardbroomad forgotten her own cat, now crouched underneath

ne of the benches wolfing down the kippers as fast asossible.

The boat lurched and Miss Hardbroom unfortunatelyraced her foot on an unexpected piece of fish skin,

which zipped her over backwards, banging her head on

he seat as she fell. A shower of stars and explodingghts cascaded past her eyes as she lost consciousness.hen there was no sound, except for Tabbys pitiful

mewing, Morganas munching and the sea slapping athe sides of the boat.

worst witch all at sea, the - the worst witch all at sea

Documents