"What's the night like?" he asked. "I've got to ride back."
He went to the door, and Dave followed him out.
"His back is broken," he said, when they were out of ear-shot. "It's just a question of hours."
"How many?"
"Can't say with any certainty. It's badly smashed, and no doubt other things besides. Paralysis of the——"
"Has he said anything? Has he shown any inclination to talk?"
"No. That is, he looked around the room a good deal as though looking for some one. Maybe you."
"Can nothing be done for the poor chap?"
"Nothing. Better get him a parson. I'll come over to-morrow to see him, if he's alive. Anyway I'll be needed to sign a certificate. I must get back to home by daylight. I've got fever patients. Now just come inside, and I'll fix you up. Then I'll go and see to the boys. After that, home."
"You're sure nothing——"