An example of such author can be Benjamin Franklin. He was widely read by people throughout the colonies and his Poor Richard's Almanacs were a common household items. His audience were the common people and his purpose was to educate them and help people become better. Hi style was simple and direct, often full of word plays and funny anecdotes.
The correct answer is "It provides comic relief at a tense moment". Using certain expressions into your writing is an effective way to make your work more creative. Used correctly, this kind of expressions can amplify messages in a way that draws readers in and helps to awaken their senses.
"To avoid arousing unnecessary talk, he took from the table the writing in which the millions were renounced, and when he got home locked it up in the fireproof safe."