She looked at him with a startled expression, but did not speak. She made an effort, but the words froze on her tongue.
"One should not doubt the Eternal wisdom," he went on huskily, "but it seems a huge mistake. There are a hundred men who could be better spared."
"God knows best," Ruth tried to say, but she was never sure that the words escaped her lips.
"He seems quite resigned to his fate," Ralph continued, after a pause. "The doctor told him this morning that if he had any worldly affairs to settle he should put them in order without delay. He appears to be waiting now for the end."
"He is not afraid?" Ruth questioned, bringing out the words with a great effort.
"Not a bit. He reminds me of father more than any man I have ever known. His confidence is that of a little child. By-the-bye, he would like to see you before he goes."
"See me, Ralph?"
"He expressed himself very doubtfully and timidly, and asked me if I thought you would mind coming to say good-bye."
"There could be no harm in it, Ralph?"
"Not a bit. He has been like an elder brother to us both."