Considering that I am a professional humorist, I used to think that anyone would have to be pretty numb to think I was being nasty. The hell of it is...sometimes I cant tell either! The big problem seems to be that this method of communication is so limited..no facial expressions, no subtle nuances, voice inflections..they are vital in total communication, and we know what we are saying, but its easy to lose sight of what it sounds like to the listener, or reader, as it were.
Anyway, I love irony, sarcasm and insults from people I know, so Rick, fire away..I will never misunderstand you, and Spaw, if you dont insult me once in a while, I feel left out!
One of my heros is Rumpole of the Bailey, another is Basil Fawlty, That should tell you something. So, if I have been unkind to anyone (including Matt) you have my sincere apology.