The couple replied that they were best friends and fellow artists, both worked long hours alone and placed happiness above financial security.

"Only a couple of minutes," he replied.

"Good afternoon," replied the couple in unison.

"A couple of times, yes," Silk replied in an offhand manner.

"A couple of hundred by now," Mayor Dellinger replied.

The old couple nodded and replied smilingly.

A couple of hundred by now,' replied Simon, who had appeared beside them.

"A couple of months at least," Khalor replied.

"A couple of weeks at least, your Majesty," the general replied.

A couple of weeks," the old man replied, "if this weather doesn't get any worse.