Ghost Story December 1987

Trevor Leggett was head of the Japanese Department of the BBC.

This is one of his broadcasts to Japan

Zubari for December 1987

Hello Listeners.

This time of year, Xmas, it is usual to have a ghost story. So, here is a three-minute ghost story.

There are spiritualist mediums in Britain who claim to be able to call up ghost voices of someone dead. Generally, these ghost voices are of Red Indians or Tibetans.

The ghost speaks in English, for the ‘convenience’ of the hearers because none of them know a Red Indian language or Tibetan.

A Canadian writer came to Britain on a visit, and asked for a session with a medium. We tend to think all Canadians speak English because Canada is part of the British Commonwealth. But, in fact, a part of Canada – Quebec province – speaks French. It was a French colony two hundred years ago, conquered by Britain but it kept the French language, though they all speak English, too.

This Canadian asked to speak to Napoleon. The medium knew he was Canadian, and perhaps thought that it was safe to call up Napoleon. So she went into a trance, and said: “Napoleon is here.”

The Canadian said in French: “Est-ce que j’ai l’honneur de parler avec l’Empereur?” There was silence.

Then Napoleon said: “What?”

The Canadian repeated his question, in French: “Est-ce que j’ai l’honneur de parler avec l’Empereur lui-meme?” – “Have I the honour of speaking with the Emperor himself?”

There was a pause. Then Napoleon said: “Oh, you need not speak Frenc – I’ve learned English here. I am very happy. Goodbye.” And he left.

The Canadian said afterwards: “I spoke to Napoleon for ten seconds. He’s very happy, but his French is not good. Perhaps they don’t speak it where he is.”

That’s my ghost story. Well, like Napoleon, I am very happy.

Goodbye.

©  Trevor Leggett