Outside Reading Post #4

Another important element of this story is camaraderie. Both Paul and Elinor wouldn't get by without each other if they didn't have a friend to help them along. For Elinor, it's Ruthie. She and Ruthie lived together for a time, and when Elinor wants to sneak into Belgium to see Paul, she knows who to call for help. But her intentions aren't always the best. "She'd used Ruthie, and not for the first time. She ought to stop doing it, and of course she would, but not yet" (Barker 203). Without Ruthie, Elinor wouldn't be able to accomplish anything. She needs Ruthie for support and guidence. Ruthie thinks the trip is a bad idea, but she helps anyway and Elinor is greatful for it.
Paul gets his fill of comraderie from Richard Lewis, a fellow nurse. He and Richard work side by side everyday. In a letter that Lewis sends to Elinor, he speaks of when she was there in Belgium with them. "I have happy memories of the evening the three of us spent together...don't be too concerned Paul is in good hands and is one the mend" (Barker 263). Paul was sick at the time, which is why he is writing. Lweis shows real concern for Paul and wants to make sure Elinor is informed because he knows she cares as well. He wants to do everything he can to make sure that Paul is well looked after and all will be in order when he is better. Lewis and Ruthie are the best friends Paul and Elinor could have in a greusome time of war.