A man was brought to Mercy Hospital and taken in for coronary
surgery. The
operation went well and as the groggy man regained consciousness,
he was
reassured by a Sister of Mercy, who was waiting by his bed.
"Mr. Smith, you're going to be just fine," said the nun, gently
patting his
hand. "We do need to know, however, how you intend to pay for your
stay
here. Are you covered by insurance?"
"No, I'm not," the man whispered hoarsely.
"Can you pay in cash?" persisted the nun.
"I'm afraid I cannot, Sister."
"Well, do you have any close relatives?" the nun asked.
"Just my sister in New Mexico," he volunteered. "But she's a humble
spinster
nun."
"Oh, I must correct you, Mr. Smith. Nuns are not 'spinsters.' They
are
married to God."
"Wonderful," said Mr. Smith. "In that case, please send the bill to
my
brother-in-law."