Some were engaged in packing their belongings in carts preparatory to flight, some wandered aimlessly about wringing their hands, while others went to the church, whose bells were mournfully tolling the dirge of the departed.

Walter's presence soon restored something like order and confidence; his resolute tone cheered the timid and gave hope to the despairing.

Sternly he rebuked those preparing to fly, and ordered them instantly to replace their goods in their houses.

Then he went to the priest and implored him to cause the tolling of the bell to cease.
"There is enough," he said, "in the real danger present to appall even the bravest, and we need no bell to tell us that death is among us.

The dismal tolling is enough to unnerve the stoutest heart, and if we ring for all who die its sounds will never cease while the plague is among us; therefore, father, I implore you to discontinue it.