( I found this on a Scots jokes website. I haven't the least idea what "belfry payments" are)

The friars found themselves behind in belfry payments so they decided to raise funds. Since many of them were quite good gardeners, they began raising flowers and selling them in a little shop they opened. Since the locals liked buying flowers from men of God, the business prospered.

It prospered too well for the liking of the florist in town. He begged them to shut down because his business was being ruined. The friars refused. Repeated requests were ignored.

Finally, in desperation, the florist hired Hugh MacTaggart, a known vicious thug to do something.

The friars were terrified at hearing that Hugh MacTaggart had been hired because he was known to be a godless man who would stop at nothing.

The friars immediately shut down their florist business.

The moral is - Hugh, and only Hugh, can prevent florist friars.

Try telling that one sitting around the campfire when you've had a beer or three!
"Florist Friars".

I can't say it sober!

Dave and Rusty Marlin:

Ordinarily, I don't tell pun jokes. I just couldn't resist this one. I do have to say, however, that I am shocked at any suggestion of telling jokes while imbibing alcoholic beverages.

BTW, I notice that you two, while quick enough to criticize, still don't tell me what "belfry payments" are!

Belfry or bell tower.

Also slang for brain cavity.

Swamp Fox:

So far I follow you - but what's the "payments"? (Can I really trust somebody from Maryland to know about the Scots?)

Swamp Fox:

I hasten to apologize for mistaking your state. ( I read MO as MD. It has nothing to do with me sipping my Canadian Club!) Still,though, I never met anyone from the "Show me" state who was an authority on Scots slang.