Um, this is a matter of some delicacy, but don't mention death in the presence of the Colonel, will you? He doesn't know he is quite quite moribund yet, and Dr Polidori assures me that he can continue to enjoy a full and interesting life (after dark), despite this unfortunate difficulty.
His family are coming to town to have a conference on the matter this evening. I believe he has seven brothers, although I have not yet met them. Do be kind and welcoming, they will need gentle soothing and assistance to help them through this most troublesome of situations.