"I did not," came his quick response, loaded like a spring. Malachi turned the handle, opened the door to head into the presbytery, and held it so that Mister Tully could walk in first.

"But that is why I'm here now."

From the matter-of-fact way he said it, it did not sound as if he planned to elaborate. He returned the smile regardless, neat and polite, and followed into the presbytery after him. As for Father Richards, he couldn't speak to his reasons for joining the priesthood; he hadn't asked, and he generally didn't.

"I'll have to see if Mrs. Higgins is here..." muttered Malachi, still a bit unsure with the environment himself. He passed through the rooms, motioning for Mister Tully to follow, until he'd made it to the kitchen. "I suppose she might be busy... I don't care to bother her. I'm sure I can figure something out for you myself."