Going, going, gone . . .

Gavels

Sir, – Further to Páraic Maguire’s letter (August 25th), a couple of years ago I attended the funeral of an auctioneer where his actor son gave the eulogy from the pulpit. He called the congregation to attention by using his father’s gavel, bringing both laughter and tears to those present. Most appropriate, I thought. – Yours, etc,

MARION WALSH,

Dublin 4.