chapter 39 What do we find out about Roark’s head injuries? What does this tell you about her?

Sheldon Roark, father of Ellen, is at her bedside in a Memphis hospital reading the news about the trial. Jake and Harry Rex arrive and battle with the on-duty nurse to enter before visiting hours. Sheldon explains to them that Ellen was not beaten. Her head wounds, which have required thirty-nine stitches, were self-inflicted. Apparently she beat her head against the pole, sure that they were going to rape and kill her. Sheldon mentions "Mickey Mouse" as the informant who saved her.