Ghost Story for December 1987

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

This is one of his broadcasts to Japan

Hello listeners – at this time of year, Xmas, it is usual to have a ghost story.  So here is a 3-minute ghost story.

There are spiritualist mediums in Britain who claim to be able to call up the ghost voice of someone dad.  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 it is part of the British Commonwealth. But, in fact, a part of Canada – Quebec Province – speaks French.  It was a French colony 200 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 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 a silence. Then Napoleon said:

“What?”

The Canadian repeated his question, in French:

“Est-ce que j’ai l’honneur de parler avec l’Empereur soi-meme?” – “Have I the honour of speaking with the Emperor himself?”

There was a pause.  Then Napoleon said:

“Oh, you need not speak French – 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