From Ronald Key
Llanllechid, North Wales
I have just seen Stephen Browning’s defence of Morse code, citing its
usefulness in amateur radio communication (Letters, 9 March, p 53). Radio was
also my reason for learning it but its simplicity can make it useful in other
circumstances. When I found myself in intensive care wearing an oxygen mask that
prevented me speaking, I was able to send and receive to my wife, a former Girl
Guide, through movement of my toes, and that in spite of deep sedation.
Having had a little experience with stroke patients, I have often thought
that they would be able to communicate much more effectively if only they had
learnt Morse. I suggest there are many circumstances which might arise, in
mountains for instance, where Morse signalling might be effective, especially if
everyone around had learnt it. I suggest that, far from deserving its obituary,
Morse should find a place in every school curriculum.
