"I am willing," he said. His face was like death.
"And if I should object, what then?" she asked, almost inaudibly.
"I should refuse to operate. I cannot pretend that an operation is the only means left to save his life. It is just the other way round. We are supposed to take extreme measures in extreme cases, but always with the idea of prolonging human life. In this instance, I am bound to tell you, that I don't believe there is a chance to save him. We must look the matter squarely in the face."
"You said that there was absolutely no chance." She leaned heavily against the table.
"I believe there is no chance, but I am not all-seeing, Anne. We never know,—absolutely. Miracles happen. They are not performed by man, however."
"Have you spoken to Dr. Bates?"
"Yes. He is coming to the hospital, to—to be with me."
"He will not attempt to prevent the operation?"
"No. He does not advise or sanction it, but he—understands."
"And you will be held responsible for everything?"