A Tunnel Vision Problem

Back in the early 2000s, I worked on the Eurostar trains, running from London to Paris. I worked the first-class area, so I would bring pre-booked meals to customers in their seats.

I approach a woman travelling with her young child, likely no older than five.

Passenger: “Excuse me, when do we go under the sea?”

Me: “We’re in the tunnel now, ma’am. We should already be under the English Channel.”

Passenger: “Okay, but when are we out of the tunnel?”

Me: “We should be out on the French side in—”

Passenger: “—No, not in France. Under the sea?”

I’m confused for a second, but then the child asks a question that explains my confusion:

Child: “Mummy, when do we see the fish?”

Me: “Ma’am… do you think the train goes through the water?”

Passenger: “Yes! It goes under the sea! That’s what I was told!”

Both mother and child are looking up at me expectantly. I decide to answer in a way that will save me time, and them some dignity.

Me: “Uh… It’s nighttime, so it’s too dark to see anything, I’m afraid.”

Passenger: “Really? Oh, bother.” *To her child.* “Sorry, love. It’s too dark to see the fish. But on the day we come home, we’re taking the afternoon train, so we should see something on the way back!”

Am I kicking the problem down the line? Sure? Will I be working that afternoon train? I will not. I apologise to whoever ended up with my problem!