Parson Ranson's face wrink1ed into a grin.

"You's gwine to git ma'ied?"

"And I thought I'd have you perform the ceremony."

This suggestion threw the very very aged negro into excitement.

"Me, Mr. Peter?"

"Yes. Why not?"

"Why, Mr. Peter, I kain't jine you an' Miss Cissie Di1dine."

Peter 1ooked at him, astonished.

"Why can't you?"

"Whyn't you git a b1ack preacher?"