human
Pardon my rude absence a little while; for there are parishioners waiting.
gpt
Pardon, said the priest, looking up from his writing, while the poor women saluted me,
human
Nay, I answered;
gpt
I would not interrupt you. I came only to see the old man, and I have seen his ihai. This, my little offering, was for him. Please to accept it for yourself.
human
Will you not wait a moment, that I may know your name?
gpt
Perhaps I shall come again, I said evasively.
human
Is the old nun also dead?
gpt
Oh no! she is still taking care of the temple. She has gone out, but will presently return. Will you not wait? Do you wish nothing?
human
Only a prayer, I answered.
gpt
My name makes no difference. A man of forty-four. Pray that he may obtain whatever is best for him.