Somewhat cynical joke from a recovering Catholic -
A new fellow comes into the small pub on the Irish coast, takes a seat at the bar and orders three pints of Guiness. He sips at each glass in order, taking his time and finishing all three together.
As he is serving up three more, the publican feels obliged to tell the man, "Lad, you know the stout loses some of the froth quickly. How about I give you the pints one at a time so they stay fresh."
"I'll explain myself," the stranger replies. " My two brothers and I used to drink together each night. Now they have gone over to the town of Boston and I miss them. In this fashion I can imagine they are still with me, sharing a laugh and a jar."
The barkeep is touched by the small ceremony and says no more about it.
Over time the man becomes a regular and the locals become accustomed to his habit of ordering three pints at a time. One soft spring evening he comes in, takes his usual seat and orders two pints. The locals and the bartender take note of this and are saddened.
As he is serving the second round, the bartender says to him, "Friend, on behalf of all us here, I want to express our sorrow at your loss."
At first the customer is confused, then looking down at the bar, realizes the cause of the confusion. "No, no, both of my brothers are in fine fettle. It is just that I myself have given up drinking for Lent."
groan |
