Mr. Smith 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.

"Then can you pay in cash?" persisted the nun.

"I'm afraid I cannot, Sister."

"Well, do you have any close relatives?" the nun
questioned sternly.

"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."