He's BACK!!! Yea! Markie is back in the story! Laura and I thought the line about needing more communication sounded an awful lot like things we have said in here. HF is using our ideas!!!

When Mark Darcy appeared at door, lungs got in throat. Always forget how tall, strong yet kind, and irresistible he is. Pffft!! Not me, honey, you don't deserve him. ;-) At this he sprang to his feet and started pacing. He was still in his work suit, with top buttons all undone showing his hairy chest: all hot and rumpled and manly. Mmmm....Ask and ye shall receive. Thank you. :-) I'll sort everything out. I never realised you felt so...so much. Oh darling. Sort what out? He's clueless. He thinks that Bridget's all upset about the match. But if that gets the two of them back together, who am I to complain?

Happy Fourth of July and welcome back MD! Mmmm....Ask and ye shall receive. Thank you. :-) Reader power, y-e-ess! Great episode. HF is spot-on. The David Beckham sending off transfixed the nation. At work, the next day, my male colleagues acted as though someone had died. Talk about morose! And I love the bit about the Queen. A journalist asked her if she was going to watch the match and she replied "what time is it?" And I'm v. happy to see the reurrn of MD! He walked in purposefully like he always does, inspecting everything But, yes, what/who is he going to sort out? David Beckham? Is Rebecca dumped? Can't see her giving up MD without a fight!

Bridget calls him on Tuesday night at 9PM. He is going to "call back". Then he prances in on Thursday at midnight. Sheeeesh!!

Okay, Bridget is a doormat and needs a friggin' spine!!! What COMMUNICATION???? She didn't talk; she internalised. Mark D. has no clue, yes it was a wonderful episode, but what is he going to fix. Try Hoddle for Treason no, no, better yet, Beckham for treason for getting the damn red card and getting tossed out of the game. Or the Argies by winning in pathetic PKs? Can't say that too loud as brother in law is an Argies;) Thank God, Hollan beat the crap out of the Argies!!!! Oh yeah, Go Croatia!!!! And Holland!! (I always root for the underdog!) Now back to Bridget. Hole is becoming a great conversation piece, should keep it. Mark leaves Bridget all hot and bothered and goes back to Rebecca, because as Tina Turner said "he is a typical male":) Something about this leaves a definite bad taste in my mouth. Oh yeah, I'm back;) hee hee.

Yes, the air was hardly cleared. And what is Rebecca going to do....she's not going to say "Go back to Bridget darling, with my blessing. You two are meant for each other". Hasn't Mark seen "Fatal Attraction"? I hope he doesn't have a pet rabbit! Or maybe R. is just a trophy hunter....but I would have thought MD would be a trophy for keeps.

I was surprised to have just found a copy of Fever Pitch at a Barnes Ignoble here in Minneapolis. I'm happy. :-)

hi... i've been lurking over the past few weeks...sort of pissed and sort of happy that bridge and mark shared that intimate, hot and bothered moment. i asked my sports-fanatic boyfriend whether or not a man would actually be attracted to a woman even more, were she to show as much emotion over a game as a man did. to my surprise, he told me that a mutual friend of ours stayed with his girlfriend as long as he did (he lost interest WAAAAY before the eventual break up) because she was just as interested an knowledgeable in football he was. AGH! BTW, have worsened my eyesight due to the fact that last weekend, i bought both about a boy and high fidelity. read both in the course of three days. i have lost ability to see anything past sundown, but oh.... these two novels are so well worth it! (anyone know how i can get a hold of nick hornby? i want to wite him a letter)

(Winter) BTW, have worsened my eyesight due to the fact that last weekend, i bought both about a boy and high fidelity. read both in the course of three days. i have lost ability to see anything past sundown, but oh.... these two novels are so well worth it! I just finished About a Boy last weekend and High Fidelity not long before that. I agree with you Winter, both were hilarious and a fabulous read! I'm just beginning my HF autographed copy of BJD - am trying to catch up with all of you. So far it's vg :-)

i asked my sports-fanatic boyfriend whether or not a man would actually be attracted to a woman even more, were she to show as much emotion over a game as a man did. I watched a game on TV in a pub and a young boy actually insisted on buying me a couple of drinks when he saw me jumping up and down and yelling... I don't know about "attraction" as such (or perhaps it happens as a bonus), but there is strong cross-gender bonding emerging over shared interests. The problem is, people still do not "expect" women to like sport (=butch), or men to get excited about, say, cookery (=sissies), but there's less and less of that. Our modern times actually encourage equalization in these areas, stereotypes are disappearing.

Hmmmmm..... This installment has left me feeling a bit empty inside. I know I should be glad that Mark dumped Rebecca, but for some reason I'm not terribly thrilled. I think perhaps I've thought him a total spineless dweeb for so long, that I no longer want Bridge to be stuck with him? Maybe I don't believe him when he says he is through with the Jellyfisher--and she certainly won't give up that easy. Maybe I'm still wondering about Gary (who apparently does not have a refridgerator-repairman's butt-crack). And why does Bridget sabotage herself at every opportunity? "Are you a man," I said, turning to face him belligerently, "or a mousse?" I know the answer to that--she keeps listening to the Shazzer even when she's been giving bad advice from the outset.

Are you a man...or a mousse? LMAO!! If of the chocolate variety, then who cares!! All that matters is that Mark is back!! He's pried the Jellyfisher's tentacles off him. Hoorah!! Agree though that Rebecca will not let this stand. She doesn't strike me as the type who could live with being the *dumpee* Can't decide against whom she will strike out. sabotage herself Naw! Just Bridget finally speaking up for herself like we've been wanting her to do for months. OK, so's she's a little soused. She could've said "hair gel." ;-) wondering about Gary Sorry, but I don't think he's going to be the Prince Charming that Laura has fantasized. for the first time ever with Mark nothing seemed to be well...happening Just stress. Purely temporary condition. Emotionally drained. No need for Mark to make an appointment at the doctor's yet. Not my Markeeeeee!!

HF responds to feminist critique in US by incorporating it into story line!! Yay HF! I think this is v. funny and moderately post modern. HF, having dealt with all the flak in the press about BJ being a product of too many self help books and beauty magazines, incorportates this into her story line: BJ is attacked by friends and self for being insufficiently spineful. I love it! And I'm glad she turned around and told him off. Just to take him back without a murmur would be ridiculous. And as its obviously going to be shortlived (they can't stay together for long or HF will run out of story) maybe MD's "little problem" is going to be the source of the next split?

The mousse that roared! Good on you, Bridget! Nothing seemed to be well....happening And no wonder. Obviously the stress of maintaining a dual relationship and a high powered job, not to mention all these midnight dashes to Bridget's flat, dinner parties and mini-breaks, have taken their toll of MD. What he needs is an early night with a good book and a mug of Horlicks. The next stage.....well, I still foresee a Fatal Attraction scenario with the dumped Rebecca striking back. And when is Bridget going to get a foot in Mark's door (ie huge detached house in posh Holland Park)!

(Ann) This installment has left me feeling a bit empty inside. This one hit me after the fact!! LOL!! A little *unsatisfied* perhaps. (Kate) HF responds to feminist critique in US by incorporating it into story line!! Hmmmm Didn't she get any flak in the UK? Where've you been, girl? Post-modern, indeed. Don't want to get tooo deep here. ;-) (Bethan) I still foresee a Fatal Attraction scenario with the dumped Rebecca striking back. V. possibly. We all know how good your eyes are. ;-) Another Tarts and Vicars party with Bridge wearing a bunny tail, perhaps!!

WALL STREET JOURNAL BEST SELLING BOOKS FICTION 4. ``Bridget Jones's Diary'' by Helen Fielding (Viking) PUBLISHERS WEEKLY BEST SELLING BOOKS HARDCOVER FICTION 3. ``Bridget Jones's Diary'' by Helen Fielding (Viking) USA TODAY BEST SELLING BOOKS 20. ``Bridget Jones's Diary'' by Helen Fielding (Viking) (F-H) Key: F-Fiction; NF-Nonfiction; H-Hardcover; P-Paperback USA Today's list is based on a computer analysis of retail book sales nationwide last week. Included are more than 1 million volumes from approximately 3,000 large-inventory, diverse-content bookstores.

HF in the charts........is this good/v.good/exceptional for a first novel by an unknown in the US? How did Nick Hornby do with "About a boy"? It probably also means that there will be more interest in getting the film version up and running......hopefully!

About A Boy never hit the bestsellers' list. My Sunday paper showed BJD dropped from fourth to seventh this week nationally, although I don't know its source.

This week's New York Times Best Sellers List: BJD is #4 up from #8 last week after only 4 weeks on the list.

Awful few weeks - lost my way here. What use is BJD without the BJD discussion group? Twin set - as understood in UK, believe twin set is jacket and skirt in same material (often tweedy?), associated with middle-aged women pre-WW2 (though am man, and therefore not fashion expert). Can confirm woman showing genuine interest in sport increases attraction levels dramatically - difficult to rationalise, but true. Also can confirm GP's accent in Sliding Doors was so flawless as to spark several arguments about whether she wasn't English or resident. Surprised by HF staying in LA, I actually thought I saw her in a restaurant here in London on Friday.

(MarkG) Awful few weeks - lost my way here. What use is BJD without the BJD discussion group? v. true. Felt same when site down for four days. twin set is jacket and skirt in same material (often tweedy?) Work for British Vogue? Can confirm woman showing genuine interest in sport increases attraction levels dramatically - difficult to rationalise, but true. Why difficult? Evidence of shallowness. ;-) Also can confirm GP's accent in Sliding Doors was so flawless as to spark several arguments about whether she wasn't English or resident. Scary, isn't it. Apparently, she thinks self is also. Should talk to parents more often.

Work for British Vogue? Mark, you cannot be English and definitely do not work for Vogue if you think a twin set is a skirt and jacket made of tweed!! Also can confirm GP's accent in Sliding Doors was so flawless as to spark several arguments about whether she wasn't English or resident. In a recent interview she said she hated bubble and squeak, therefore there is no doubt. She cannot even be even an honourary English woman!!

Okay, I've been fairly silent of late and would like to change that:) First of all, so Mark FINALLY leaves Rebecca!!! But, and I mean but, how long does he stay with Bridge and does he, in essence go back to Bridge. I mean with mum on the answerphone talking about Viagara and he can't quite get it up; should prove quite interesting:) I betcha anything she is reading this

I betcha anything she is reading this oh puhleeze.... don't you think she has better things to do? as in, a life? ;-) and if she is reading this, don't you think she would find our analysis of her column down to the tiniest detail, a mite pathetic ;-) (as in, get a life?)

She found the site on her own and said that she would check it again, so what's so far fetched, Kate? Do you think famous people don't surf the net? Only people like us?

I wasn't clear that she found it on her own - I thought one of us gave it to her, but I'm happy to concede the point. However, if she is in Hollywood working on a screenplay (though that may not be the case!) she probably doesn't have time, given that she's also writing her column and keeping up with events at home sufficiently to make it current. Also, to be honest, I think repeatedly saying "she's reading this" not only makes us more self conscious about what we post, but also perhaps gives us an inflated idea of our own importance in her universe. I'm sure famous people surf the net. I just think BUSY people don't - or not as often as the rest of us do. I know I am nostalgically surfing madly at the moment, knowing that when I start a real job again in a month or so, time to surf is simply not going to exist.

Keep in mind that she doesn't start writing the weekly column until Friday (and it shows up here in the states around 8:30pm Friday night), I think you might overrate the ammount of time that she spends on it. Concidering how disjointed and incoherent it is at times from week to week, I wish she would spend more time on it.

Apologies for ignorant definition of twin-set. I do not work for Vogue. I have little fondness for bubble and squeak, so maybe I'm not even English. I feel if the column is ever disjointed and incoherent, this is quite deliberate from HF, and totally in keeping with Bridget. I thought this week's was one of the best ever, with Bridget even in her moment of triumph jeopardising the relationship with feminist sensibilities, and then the great MD falling down on the job!

Kate, Helen Fielding has told everyone that she is the biggest procrastinator on the other side of the pond! Surfing is better when at work! hee hee. Anyway, she came across this quite on her own because in Boston she said that there was a board where women from the States discuss BJD. My hand immediately went up and I told her that I created the topic. AND I also invited her to join in the conversation at times. She was quite ecstatic that "Americans" were discussing this little British book!!! I ex lained that we said what we felt and that there were "no holds barred"; especially, when I told her the numerous times I called Mark Darcy a F-ckwit! She was pleased that-- well, I was honest in my opinions!

Let's just forget that HF might occasionally visit here. Saw a number of doctors being interviewed last week at the BMA convention in Cardiff. Amazingly high numbers being bandied about for men needing Viagra. If what I hear about the waiting list situation is true, would be criminal if NHS provided Viagra, a medically sanctionaed recreational drug in the US. ;-) Of course, it has been the substance of most talk show comedians' standup routines since coming out. Do you think there's an official Viagra joke book out here on the Web?

Has anyone seen the readers' reviews of BJD at amazon.com Bestsellers - all 113 of them? Mostly 5 star raves. There seem to be a lot of Bridget Jones out there!

I was disappointed in this week's TIME letters to the Editor that no one took up for Bridget (alas, I wrote, but it was not published ). However, one letter should make HF feel good: ...".It seems a sad state of affairs when every young woman who writes about culture is judged on whether she is a "good feminist." Women should be judged for the individual voices we are not for whether we conform to an outdated vision of what a good feminist is. It is a sign that feminism has not died, but has succeeded....young women don't have to be as single-minded or rigid as Gloria Steinem or Germaine Greer....." Keep going, Helen. Don't capitulate to your critics.

This morning on CBS This Morning the book reviewer from USA TODAY gave BJD a glowing review for a summer read..."a must for your beach bag..." She called Bridget one of the most* endearing* modern day heroines . (Imagine...our B.!) " She loves everybody, is kind to family and friends. Looking for love....painfully insecure...but we all end up cheering up for her!" I think Our Girl has made it!!

I cannot believe that no one posted regarding today's/last night's BJD. Ok, personally, I didn't think Rebecca would deign to show up the next day! after being chucked by Mark. I thought she was more in control, but I guess not:) hee hee. And to accuse Bridge of pinching Mark, hee hee, what a joke. Someone give this lady therapy!!!! Mark telling Rebecca that he wants to LIVE with Bridget, hmmmm... The house smelled... mmmmm... like sex no doubt!! I think Pam Jones is much better than Viagara...... And I don't think we've seen the last of Rebecca or Gary for that matter. I envision it now... Bridget is in the shower there is a knock on the door Mark (in towel, no less) opens door to see two cappuccinos being thrust at him. It's Gary!!! hee hee.

(Bethan)Yes, the air was hardly cleared. And what is Rebecca going to do....she's not going to say "Go back to Bridget darling, with my blessing. You two are meant for each other". Hasn't Mark seen "Fatal Attraction"? I hope he doesn't have a pet rabbit! Or maybe R. is just a trophy hunter....but I would have thought MD would be a trophy for keeps. How prophetic!! Do you think that Rebecca in sleek, black convertible will park outside of Bridge's flat every night that Mark decides to stay the night??? And why the hell didn't Bridge SLAP her!! Did anyone learn anything from Dynasty and Alexis and Krystle??

Wasn't Mark there for a whole week - or have I misread something? I actually think that Mark got off rather lightly! Perhaps Rebecca will plan some dastardly revenge!

Laura I cannot believe that no one posted regarding today's/last night's BJD. Saturday's Electronic Telegraph didn't come on last night as usual. I bet they were waiting for HF !! This is one of my all time favorites...next to the Christmas Dinner. I wonder if it's part of the screenplay. ...can contribute suitable insights ... ..to football. I think HF must have read Winter and Mark G's posting re: men get turned on to women who are interested in sports. Anyway...Bridget 5....Rebecca 0 7/17/98 Publisher's Weekly Hard Cover Best Sellers List: BJD is # 3 (6 weeks on the list)

Wasn't Mark there for a whole week - or have I misread something? I was confused about that myself. When they left the flat, it was after being together for 14 hours. Other entry was current or one week later, i.e., Mark wanting to watch the next match with his friend. I loved this installment. I always knew that, if Mark dumped Rebecca, Bridget's self-esteem would rise. How else to account for her having the guts to actually say something in the presence of the Rebecca. Although I too wish she had slapped her!! ;-D Ah Mark! Loved how he took charge and told her off. What can I say about our wonderful boy! Knew the *problem* was only temporary. Although it was pretty funny when he said he couldn't be pinched and was own man. Yeah, sure, if you want to believe it. So Bridget feels safe and secure with Mark, and Mark doesn't feel like he always has to be proving his love to Bridget because she is so insecure and neurotic. What will they do? Enter Gary, with or without the cappucino. No!! The adventures of them living together at Mark's house!! Yes, that where she's going with this. (Bethan) Perhaps Rebecca will plan some dastardly revenge! Agree. Need either Fatal Attraction scene or catfight from Dynasty to make complete. Rebecca leaving Bridget's flat in tears wasn't enough. She deserves far worse.

Oh yes, meant to ask what news story in Britain triggered this column with its focus on racist language carryovers?

No news story that I'm aware of! I agree that it's time Mark invited Bridget over to his place. Bridget's tiny flat seems to be a cosy love nest (they don't seem to go out much except for disastrous weekends at Rebecca's). A move to Holland Park would be a real test of their relationship....but would BJ still be a singleton? Perhaps they could take a long holiday together (to the US?)

Re: Brigid's move to Mark's house.... Bethan....but would BJ still be a singleton? Right. What does a singleton become once she hooks up with a guy in a relationship? Let's see what term HF coins.

What does a singleton become once she hooks up with a guy in a relationship? Let's see what term HF coins. But I gather that in "the missing Independent year" they did actually hook up...and break up....and hook up...and break up.....so I don't think we should hold our breath!

You're right, Kate. Shortly after the book, HF said in an interview that BJ would probably never live "happily ever after" as she wasn't at her best in a relationship. But it's great to just enjoy the moment! Clearly an onside penalty thrust-out.

Does anyone have access to the columns for those *Wilderness* years. They would be in The Independent. Can't wait for her to write the sequel that would incorporate those columns. HF said in an interview that BJ would probably never live "happily ever after" as she wasn't at her best in a relationship. Don't people grow? I think Bridget showed much more self-confidence and maturity when she told Mark to have a good time watching the match with the boys. She's a person who's been conditioned to feel inadequate by Cosmo, television, movies, self-help books, etc. Mark's chucking of Rebecca was a major ego boost. Perhaps, it will stay with a while before she slides back into her neurotic self. ;-) Laura: Have you checked The Times?

I did check the Times. Why????

Can't wait for her to write the sequel that would incorporate those columns. Didn't HF tell someone when she was on tour that BJ falls for a handsome villain when on holiday in Banghok, gets arrested for drug smuggling and is rescued by MD. Sound as though they have a turbulent history! (Or did I dream this?) I would like to see Bridget meeting "Malcolm and Elaine" (or should it be "Elaine and Malcolm"?), MD's parents. Could be some comic potential there! Competition for Pam Jones?! (BTW why is Bridget's dad called Colin?)

Yes, that's right. I forgot about the drug-smuggling story.

Well, Bridge has already met Malcolm and Elaine:) at their Ruby Wedding anniversary. She gave Elaine the Bodyshop Terra Cotta essential oils burner, (which I have too, should check to see if it does indeed take in milk:))

(Bethan) (BTW why is Bridget's dad called Colin?) Oh no.......here we go again with John the Baptist!!

(Evelyn)Oh no.......here we go again with John the Baptist!! Too funny!! Because she couldn't call him Fitzwilliam Jones:)

She could, but Colin sounds better.

Okay a couple of things to note: Headline of Stinky fish smelling Boston; Boston Herald: FEVER PITCH alas, it is about Pedro Martinez, Bosox pitcher extraordinaire and over-zealous fans. Tho' always thought the field was called the green and not the pitch:) And thinking about what terminology HF could come up with in regards to MD and BJ living together why: Smug Singleton, of course. v.g. I thought:)

(Laura) in regards to MD and BJ living together why: Smug Singleton, of course. Yeah...I like that. Let's see what Helen thinks of it!!

Helen Fielding appeared on The Weekend Edition of All Thing's Considered on National Public Radio. You can hear the interview (but you must have a Real Audio Player) at: http://www.npr.org/plweb-cgi/fastweb?getdoc+npr+npr+31904+1+wAAA+Helen%26Fielding It's nearly 8 minutes long. She does not mention Colin Firth. It's more about how darned rich she's getting from BJD, now published in 22 countries. :-)

Forgot to say---scroll down to the bottom of the page and hit the hypertext link with her name.

Thanks for the link Meggin. At least we know she's still in LA and hopefully working on that screenplay!

At least we know she's still in LA and hopefully working on that screenplay! And also, according to the Times Diary, hanging out with Helena Bonham-Carter. The Times suggests that Helena may be first choice to play Bridget.

Allison, I saw the Times Diary item and I must sayt that my gut feeling now is that it will be Helena B-C. The Times (for those of yoy who didn't see it) said that HF was hanging out at a Health Farm in LA with HBC and Keneth Branagh and they seemed very friendly. One thing that struck me though, gloomily,........the Times called the film "the Hollywood version" of BJD. Hollywood is all about bankability. BJD is no longer a little book that was popular in the UK. It's big business. HB-C is bankable. KB seems very Hollywood now.....in a recent interview he said he didn't want to do any more theatre and he's playing the baddie in a huge special effects movie with Will Smith. So how about a power couple for BJ and MD?. Or Rupert Everett for MD?. Sometimes I get the odd twinge of doubt about the casting......the money men must have the last say. Just hope some of CF's current batch of movies start being released in the US, soon! I wonder if CF is in LA......his son must be on summer holiday from school now. Or are the school terms different in the US?

(Allison) The Times suggests that Helena may be first choice to play Bridget. Ick!

Or Rupert Everett for MD?. since RE came out, Hollywood has not cast him in a straight role (all power to the British film industry for managing to recognise that actors do act!). I think it very unlikely he'd be cast as MD in a Hollywood-produced BJ. Sad that Hollywood seems to have got its claws into this - I was hoping for something small budget and british, like Brassed Off or the Full Month. Oh well... And actually, I don't think HBC would be that bad. At least she's the right age!

Helena B-C is too skinny:) And too beautiful. I think Bridget should be rather plain looking. Now, I don't see how every person that HF says hello to is destined to be the next Bridget. HF has said she wants and "unknown" for the role. She may still get that. They need massive casting call, say women btw the ages of 32-38, and must be British!!!

Let's not let our imaginations run amok here re: HB-C as BJ. I would not find it unusual for HF to be hanging out with HB-C and KB as this is v. common for an ex-pat crowd. HB-C is so totally associated with costumes dramas, Merchant-Ivory productions here, but she's appeared on the late night talk shows and portrayed a v.different image. Some of her less refined roles (like Margaret's Museum) hardly anyone would have seen. Or Rupert Everett for MD LOL!!

I'm about to do some anti-Mark Darcy ranting, so forgive me. And please indulge me. What right does Mark have to worm his way back into Bridget's life!!! And why Bridget didn't put up more of a fight is beyond me? He dumps (chucks) her goes with Rebecca who tangles him in tissue of engagements all the while, Bridget should be inducted into sainthood for being a martyr!!!(I'm joking, of course:)) She never once cheated on MD!! She stayed faithful, while he was lollygagging in Scotland, Majorca or whereever Rebecca would take him, forcefully, of course(what the hell is up with that!). He is NOT his own man!! (Why did it take months and months for him to finally realize that all this was done without any reference to him!) How many times is MD going to indecisive and changeable? He wants to "live" with Bridget. But can he really "live" with her? This reconciliation is just too "pat"; too easy. Bridget fell into bed with him, I don't call that being a "strong" woman. Telling him to really, truly decide what he wants. (Yes, I "know" he wants Bridget, but he has to decide if it is longterm that he wants.) Okay, enough of my ranting. I wanted to say something that was cohesive and made sense.

Mobetta' HBC than GP for Bridget. And I agree with whoever said that authors have no say in casting. It's up to Directors and producers. the money men must have the last say. Unlike many European countries the US film industry is not government- subsidized. These producers must answer to the company shareholders....people like you 'me!! If the company continuously loses money on films, the CEO soon finds himself tanked.

Evelyn, you have nothing to say re: my rant???? I'm shocked:)

(Laura )Evelyn, you have nothing to say re: my rant???? I'm shocked:) Moi?? I'm leaving it to Renate. :-) In truth," Markee Baby" has lost ground with me. If he cheats on you now, Bridge, when love is in full bloom.... .....wait til the seven-year- itch hits.

If he cheats on you now, Bridge, when love is in full bloom.... .....wait til the seven-year- itch hits. ] Exactly!!!!!!!!!!!

HBC for BJ - on reflection I think that not only is this very likely, but also HBC isn't such a bad choice. She's the right age, she can do comedy (not just the period stuff) and as she is small, she could probably, with the right (or wrong) choice of clothes, be made to look dumpy. I could actually imagine HBC and CF playing opposite each other, and having the right sort of chemistry. But I have difficulty seeing this with Kate Winslett or GP or whoever.

as she is small, she could probably, with the right (or wrong) choice of clothes, be made to look dumpy. } Who said Bridget it dumpy!!! Part of the point of her obsession with her weight is the fact that she is not over weight! Fielding was touching on the problem most women have between their perceptions of their bodies, and the reality. Bridget thinks she is fat, but when she got down to her goal weight, everyone told her she looked sick. She is, after all, about 125-130 lbs. In order to be overweight, she would have to be around 5' tall, and since Fielding never says that she is short, I think we can assume that Bridget i a size 6 or 8 (US)--hardly dumpy!

Bridget...5' tall...130 lbs......? She's got a roll here n' there. Stay on the diet, Bridge.

Quite true, Ann. Nowhere and no place is it stated that Bridget is dumpy, frumpy or homely. She just can't be *drop dead gorgeous* or as thin as a supermodel. Her problem is self-image and what TV, movies and magazines (Cosmo) parade around as the *ideal*. HBC is not a bad choice from the standpoint of age and her beauty is v.unusual. (BTW, Bethan, she was extremely dumpy in Margaret's Museum).

"I may have briefly mentioned to Giles that there'd been a ground swell in the frilly blouse department" Love it! Great episode....HF is back on form. And I must admit I prefer the rather badtempered dominant Mark to the soppier Mark who picks flowers from public gardens!

I'm 5'2" tall, 125 lbs, and I wear a size 8. No one who wears a size 8 should be concidered dumpy! I've got news for you--I haven't got a 'roll in there'! According to the latest US government weight data, people should have a body-mass index of between 19 and 24 (less than that is too skinny!). My BMI is 23, so I'm right where I should be. (Weight in pounds) BMI = -------------------- X 709.95 (Height in inches)^2

Oh, oh, she pulled out the weight chart!!! Helen, what the hell are you doing to us!!!! hee hee.

Ann is showing us all up. She is obviously happy with herself. Good for you! :-) I'm 5'2"...weigh 117 Lbs.....take a size 4 on top....8 on bottom.. Have big thunder thighs.Cellulite all over the place. Hate Myself!!:-( I like this Chapter too. Have we ever met Giles before? And I don't like badtempered Mark.IMO, I think he has to get in touch with his feminine side!

What does "there has been a ground swell in the frilly blouse department" mean? Is he making reference to Rebecca maybe being a bit larger than Bridget? I would think that is a horrible remark? I still think MD needs a good swift kick in the A--!!!

You're kidding me with that chart, right Ann? You guys have been reading too much Bridget...she's making you obsessive, too.

We are obsessive!!! (I will readily admit to it, and only this:))

What does "there has been a ground swell in the frilly blouse department" mean? Bit of a mixed metaphor I think. "There's been a ground swell" is nautical, meaning a bit of turbulence. "Frilly blouse department" ia a very Hooray Henry (upper middle class public schoolboy type)reference to women. ie his love life has been rather unsettled. I'd like to see more of Giles. Sounds like the sort of friend Mark would have. I think the contrasting friends/lifestyles/attitudes of Bridget and Markee could be v. amusing! Looks like Rebecca is out of it, though. And I don't like badtempered Mark Oh, but I do! Shades of Fitzwilliam Darcy. Not so much bad tempered, more terse and slightly arrogant!

Thanks Bethan for the translation of the "frilly blouse dept." And now I also know the meaning of the reference to Mark as a bit of" Hooray". Was Henry a fictional character...or just alliteration ...like we refer to a Mr. Fixit as "Harry-the- Homeowner". Didn't you love the reference to Martha Stewart when she went to get the dishes for the carry-out !!

You're kidding me with that chart, right Ann? You guys have been reading too much Bridget...she's making you obsessive, too. } That is the correct chart, Nan. This happens to be one of my pet peeves--women who are incapable of seeing themselves as they really are, but as they are + 10-20 pounds. I believe in being a healthy weight, not a bean pole! Unfortunately that's not what most women aim at.

That is the correct chart, Nan. You misunderstand my meaning. I have no doubt of the chart's accuracy. My point was that comments made by a fictional character actually inspired you to go find that and post it. Don't you see the humor in that? ;-) women who are incapable of seeing themselves as they really are, but as they are + 10-20 pounds. I agree with you that, as a general rule, women are too concerned about being rail thin (brought on by having to stare at photos of Kate Moss, no doubt). Personally, I couldn't give a rat's ass. I am what I am--hasn't kept me from having the same experiences (both good and bad) as women who are 100 lbs. Then again, most of it is because of my attitude. This is, perhaps, why I find Bridget's insecurities so irritating. At first they were funny, because we all have them to some degree...but, really! Get ove it, already. Get some therapy :-)

Thought this column was a riot, and everyone said that a reconciled Bridget and Mark would be boring!! ;-) Should be like I Love Lucy if and when they ever move in together. Love Mark when he's *in control.* I don't think of his no-nonsense approach as bad tempered. (miming throat slitting, indeed!!) But isn't it all just a facade. Look at what he does at the end, he hands the phone over to Bridge. The best has to be the interchange when Bridget can't believe he didn't discuss his relationship problems with his friends. "How do you know what to do?" "I work it out for myself." Thanks, Bethan, for the explanation of the phrases; they had me in a quandary (sp?) as well. One thing nags at me is the "Bill" thing and its parallel with Bridget and Mark. A guy dating one friend and then calling another ostensibly for innocent reasons. Then Mark's advice to Shaz: Don't have anything to do with him. I'm getting the idea that Mark was the one who called Rebecca in the first place not the other way around. In last week's, Rebecca is referred to as "the arch-queen of Rules-style behavior." From what I know, she would certainly be manipulative, but she would NEVER CALL Mark. The Rules state a woman doesn't call a man; they don't even return their phone ca ls. They give all appearance of being the pursued. *Just another reason for you to despise Mark, Laura!!

Should be like I Love Lucy if and when they ever move in together. This could be a show (Bridget and Mark?) that could run and run. I thought more "Philadelphia Story"...Katherine Hepburn and Cary Grant) :-) (My kind of movie by the way, but they don't make them anymore!)

I thought more "Philadelphia Story"...Katherine Hepburn and Cary Grant) :-) Bridget a Tracy Lord type?? I think she's too strong a character, self-assured and all that even though she can't see True Love living right next door. Reason I used Lucy is (1) first thing popped into head and (2) all those shows where she messes up in the kitchen. Can see Lucy with foot in pot of mashed potatoes. ;-)

"....ground swell in the frilly blouse department".... I'm curious Bethan....(and pl. answer my question: Who is Hooray Harry?"..a few posts back) ....if a guy says the above quote re: a relationship "going south"...... what does a gal say......"ground swell in the tight breeches department"?

My point was that comments made by a fictional character actually inspired you to go find that and post it. } Actually, I opened Excel, used the spread sheet to make the calculations, copied the chart over into Paint Shop Pro, saved it as a .gif, uploaded it onto my account, and then posted it here! My point was not so much about what Bridget might or might not think about her own weight, but about how too many women are deeply screwed up about their body image. I wanted to prostelitize for being a healthy weight, istead of a bean pole. I'm just trying to counteract the messages many women absorb about their weight out there.

"Hooray Henry" is just an expression, used to describe upper middle class public schoolboy types who still perhaps use the slang they learned at school and haven't completely grown up. There's no such actual person , except that I suppose Henry is a typical name of that social class. Geoffrey Clifton was described in some reviews as a Hooray Henry type, which infact he wasn't, although he pretended he was! Male equivalent of "frilly blouse department"? Well, I guess "tight breeches" would be fine! :-)

(Ann) Actually, I opened Excel, used the spread sheet to make the calculations, copied the chart over into Paint Shop Pro, saved it as a .gif, uploaded it onto my account, and then posted it here! And she admits it! ;-D Mercy, woman, this is even worse than I'd imagined. You've fallen into the abyss ;-p (Ann) My point was not so much about what Bridget might or might not think about her own weight, but about how too many women are deeply screwed up about their body image. You're right...she could not be considered overweight by any stretch of the imagination. My original point was that body image is all about attitude. If you think you look bad, then you do. If you think you look good, then you do. It doesn't matter what the reality is because most people will unconsciously pick up on the fact that you are comfortable with yourself and forgive you your "faults". And if they don't then they probably aren't the kind of people you would want around, anyway.

(Evelyn)(and pl. answer my question: Who is Hooray Harry?". To expand on Bethan's description - The term Hooray Henry was coined by a journalist(?) called Peter York in Harpers and Queen originally, I think. A Hooray Henry is the male equivalent of a Sloane Ranger, a young upper/upper middle class woman whose London life revolves around Sloane Square(near the King's Road - remember that?). They would be preppies I think in US speak. There way of life was explained in a v funny book called the Sloane Ranger handbook.

Allison...... Sloane Ranger, a young upper/upper middle class woman I remember HF describing JE with the "Sloaney blond hair". I knew about Sloane Rangers...now we know Hooray Henry the male counterpart...thanks.!

There way of life I am not really illiterate!!

Hi y'all I've been lurking here a few weeks catching up on all the responses. I read 200 of them yesterday and while my head was spinning,I know much more about Bridget than before. Thanks to my internet friend, Evelyn,for recommending BJ to me and also directing me to these boards (also CF boards). I just want to say if CF is not cast in this part, I don't know if I can watch the movie as he is fixed in my mind as MD. He's so adorable in his diamond pattern sweater and ducky socks. CF is Darcy, MR. or Mark. HB-C is a pretty good choice for BJ, but is v. tiny and doesn't seem that she has 5 lbs to lose. Can we even come up with 5 actresses in their early 30's that have any weight to lose? I think they must all starve themselves. Yesterday, I was thinking maybe Jane Leeves from Fraiser would work. She's the right age, attractive but not beautiful, British, a recognizable name but not a superstar, and already plays a slightly Bridget-like character as Daphne.

Hi Sue, 200 posts in one day!! yowser!! Jane Leeves, hmmm... now there's a thought:)

I want you all to be real nice to Sue. She and I have been sluggin' it out with triple digit heat for over 20 days now. And we don't need any additional stress. Besides, I told her how charming you all are!!

Welcome, Sue :-) (Sue) I just want to say if CF is not cast in this part, I don't know if I can watch the movie... I like you already, honey! :-) (Evelyn) I want you all to be real nice to Sue. And just what are you implying, missy? ;-p

Jane Leeves, hmmm... now there's a thought:) } And a pretty darn good one too.

Hi ya Sue! Any friend of Evelyn's is most definitely welcome here. Just don't let her current views on MD affect you. ;-D I've been lurking here a few weeks catching up on all the responses. I read 200 of them yesterday Don't sound so bad when the alternative might be going outside!! ick Welcome aboard, Sue. Always like to hear new points of view.

Hey Karen, say hi to your Gary for me while your in his flat!

say hi to your Gary for me while your in his flat! hee hee hee!! Didn't she tell you he went back to his wife? Of course, I will have to deal with Trampetta when she shows up!