A True Relation of the Apparition of one Mrs. Veal The Next Day after Her Death, to one Mrs. Bargrave, at Canterbury, the 8th of September, 1705; which Apparition Recommends the Perusal of Drelincourt's Book of Consolations against the Fears of Death

"A True Relation of the Apparition of one Mrs. Veal" by Daniel Defoe is a supernatural pamphlet published in the early 18th century. This work is centered around the eerie encounter between two women, Mrs. Bargrave and the ghost of her deceased friend, Mrs. Veal. Defoe’s narrative explores themes of death, friendship, and the afterlife, suggesting a reflection on morality and the fear of mortality. The story begins with Mrs. Bargrave, who lives in Canterbury, as she receives an unexpected visit from Mrs. Veal, whom she has not seen in over two years. During their lengthy conversation, which touches on various subjects including Drelincourt's work on death, Mrs. Veal shares comforting words and requests that Mrs. Bargrave convey messages to her brother regarding her belongings. However, this visit takes a chilling turn when it is revealed that Mrs. Veal died the day before their meeting. The narrative unfolds as Mrs. Bargrave relates her encounter, revealing that only she and Mrs. Veal had knowledge of the specific details discussed, including the description of Mrs. Veal's gown. The pamphlet leaves readers to ponder the authenticity of the apparition, while also serving as an intriguing commentary on societal beliefs surrounding the supernatural during Defoe’s time. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Daniel Defoe was an English novelist, journalist, merchant, pamphleteer and spy. He is most famous for his novel Robinson Crusoe, published in 1719, which is claimed to be second only to the Bible in its number of translations. He has been seen as one of the earliest proponents of the English novel, and helped to popularise the form in Britain with others such as Aphra Behn and Samuel Richardson. Defoe wrote many political tracts, was often in trouble with the authorities, and spent a period in prison. Intellectuals and political leaders paid attention to his fresh ideas and sometimes consulted him.