Dr. Bob Gilbert eased back in an upholstered chair in his spacious, pastel living room Tuesday. One hand rested on his leg, the other on top of a walking cane.

He was surrounded by lovely things, in this home on a quiet, wooded lot not far from downtown Columbus. He is an educated man, described by close friends as compassionate and selfless. He enjoys music, the arts and the pursuit of knowledge.

His thoughts, however, were elsewhere.