More English language faux pas - hilarious!

In the days when you couldn't count on a public toilet facility, an English woman was planning a trip to India. She had registered to stay in a village in South India at a small guest house owned by the local schoolmaster, and was concerned as to whether the guest house contained a WC. In England, as you know, a bathroom is commonly called a WC which stands for ‘Water Closet’. So she wrote to the schoolmaster inquiring about the WC facilities.

The school master, not fluent in English idioms, asked the local priest if he knew the meaning of WC. Together they pondered possible meanings of the letters and concluded that the lady probably wanted to know if there was a ‘Wayside Chapel’ near the house, a place where special occasions like local weddings, christenings and prayer services are usually held, especially if the chapel has a pretty garden. Unfortunately, the thought of a bathroom never entered their minds.

So the schoolmaster wrote the following reply:

Dear Madam,

I take great pleasure in informing you that the WC is located 9 miles from the house. It is located in the middle of a grove of pine trees, surrounded by lovely grounds. It is capable of holding 229 people and is open on Sundays and Thursdays.



As there are many people expected in the summer months, I suggest you arrive early. There is, however, plenty of standing room. This is an unfortunate situation especially if you are in the habit of going regularly.



It may be of some interest to you that my daughter was married in the WC as it was there that she met her husband. It was a wonderful event. There were 10 people in every seat. It was wonderful to see the expressions on their faces.



We can take photos as well. My wife, sadly, has been ill and unable to go recently. It has been almost a year since she went last, which pains her greatly. You will be pleased to know that many people bring their lunch and make a day of it. Others prefer to wait till the last minute and arrive just in time.



I would recommend Your Ladyship plan to go on a Thursday as there is an organ accompaniment. The acoustics are excellent and even the most delicate sounds can be heard everywhere. The newest addition is a bell which rings every time a person enters. We are holding a bazaar to provide plush seats for all since many feel it is long needed.



We hope to welcome you soon to enjoy our facilities,



Thanking you,



With many respects,

T. R. Murugesh