Michael had informed the nursing staff to tell Deul about Ellie's change in status, but Deul had not understood what the nurses had been trying to tell him, so he had taken the train in a rush unaware of his goddaughter's surgical result. Michael, knowing his words would also go over Deul's limited understanding had left the older gentleman in the foyer and let Henry know that he had arrived.
Henry fixed his collar as he walked down the stairs. The shirt was a new scratchy material which irritated the side of his neck as his tie was tight against his neck. He stopped when he saw Deul looking up at a portrait of his mother. Deul's eyes were distant as he sighed. His hands look limp on his crutches. Henry made a mis-step and Deul turned to him, his face a mask of ancient sadness as he asked his question. "Ellie is no longer here is she?"
