hosp. payment

[BethanyJ]

Mr. Smith was brought to Mercy Hospital (a Catholic 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 hoorificely.

"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."