He is not coarse, noisy and foul-mouthed, like the rascal Groult who amuses the whole ward. He is only dull and reserved.
He does not often say "Thank you" when he is offered something, and many touchy people take offence at this.
When I sit down by his bed, he gives no sign of any pleasure at my visit. I ask him:
"What was your business in civil life?"
He does not answer immediately. At last he says: "Odd jobs; I carried and loaded here and there."
"Are you married?"
"Yes."
"Have you any children?"
"Yes."
"How many?"