A man was brought to Mercy Hospital, and taken quickly 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 essayed.
“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 Smith. “In that case, please send the bill to my
brother-in-law.”