The narrative unfolds in Bayonne, a city with rich historical ties to England, particularly during the Peninsular War. The protagonist, while exploring the city, encounters a neglected cemetery where English officers from the war are buried. As he reflects on the past, he meets the ghost of Captain Alister McAlister, who reveals that he was cut in half by chain-shot during the conflict. His upper body remains in Bayonne, while his legs were mistakenly sent to Scotland and buried as those of Captain Timothy O'Hooligan. McAlister, a spirited and humorous character, explains the mix-up that led to this bizarre situation. He recounts how his father had requested that his remains be sent back to Scotland for burial, but due to a series of errors involving Irish soldiers, his trunk and O'Hooligan's legs were swapped. The captain expresses his desire to have his remains returned to Auchimachie, his family estate, and insists that the tombstone in Bayonne be corrected to reflect the truth of his burial. The protagonist promises to help McAlister, leading to a journey to Scotland where he meets McAlister's great-nephew, Fergus. Fergus is initially cordial but reveals the complexities and potential costs involved in exhuming McAlister's remains. He is hesitant to take action, citing financial constraints and the challenges of dealing with the authorities in Bayonne. The protagonist suggests a straightforward approach to clarify the mix-up, but Fergus remains reluctant, prioritizing his family's current financial situation over the honor of correcting the historical record. The story blends humor with themes of identity, legacy, and the absurdities of life and death, ultimately leaving the resolution of McAlister's plight uncertain. The narrative captures the essence of human folly and the enduring connections between past and present, as well as the complexities of familial duty and honor.
By Sabine Baring-Gould · First published 1894 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Comedy