The old priest lay dying in the hospital. For years he dad faithfully
> served the people of the nation's capital. He motioned for his nurse to
> come near.
>
> "Yes, Father?" said the nurse.
>
> "I would really like to see John Howard and Peter Costello before I die."
> whispered the priest.
>
> "I'll see what I can do, Father" replied the nurse.
>
> The nurse sent the request to Parliament House and waited for a response.
> Soon the word arrived. Howard and Costello would be delighted to visit the
> priest.
>
> As they went to the hospital, Costello commented to Howard "I don't know
> why
> the old priest wants to see us, but it will certainly help our images."
> Howard couldn't help but agree. When they arrived at the priest's room,
> the
> priest took Howard's hand in his right hand and Costello's hand in his
> left.
> There was silence and a look of serenity on the old priest's face.
>
> Finally Howard spoke. "Father, of all the people you could have chosen,
> why
> did you choose us to be with you as you near the end?"
>
> The old priest slowly replied "I have always tried to pattern my life
> after
> our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."
>
> "Amen" said Howard.
> "Amen" said Costello
>
> The old priest continued..."He died between two lying thieves. I would
> like
> to do the same."