Legacy of Laughter from the Offspring of Bishop Graves

In a delightful twist of fate, the sons of Bishop Graves of Limerick prove that graves need not be sombre, as they bring humor to the forefront. Mr Alfred Perceval Graves, known for the genial irony of “Father O’Flynn,” and his brother, Mr Charles Larcom Graves, the professed humorist, inject mirth into the world, defying the solemn connotations of their family name.

Mr Alfred Perceval Graves, a master of genial irony, gifted the world with the humorous charm of “Father O’Flynn.” Additionally, he demonstrated his versatility by skillfully pairing apt words with a centuries-old tune from Cork, a serendipitous encounter at Cambridge adding a delightful touch to the narrative.

On the other hand, Mr Charles Larcom Graves proudly claims the mantle of the family’s humorist. A precursor to Mr Edward Verrall Lucas in the “Wisdom While You Wait” series, he joined the staff of Punch, earning accolades from fellow authors as one of “The Signs of the Times.” The irony of his role is not lost, considering the traditional jests aimed at bishops, a lineage he hails from. Throughout history, bishops have endured playful ribbing, and Mr Charles Larcom Graves adds a layer of irony to his wit by embracing this unconventional family background.

Bishops, often the subjects of wit due to their roles and titles, have rarely retaliated, choosing instead to maintain a dignified silence. Even Samuel Wilberforce, who possessed undeniable talent, directed his wit towards fellow dignitaries, offering a witty suggestion of “Rather Reverend” as a compromise to a presumptuous Canon.

It’s worth noting that bankers, somewhat unfairly, find themselves in a similar category as bishops when it comes to public perception of wit. Mr Edward Verrall Lucas, a banker’s son himself, challenges these stereotypes, proving that humor knows no bounds.

While history has witnessed friendships severed over a well-placed pun, the flip side reveals that wit has a unifying power. As the saying goes, “One joke of Lucas makes the whole world grin,” emphasizing the ability of humor to bridge gaps and bring people together. In the case of the Graves family, the legacy of laughter continues to thrive, defying expectations and spreading cheer through the generations.

The Sketch – Wednesday 13 February 1907