Strangers stopped each other in the streets, and conversed together like old friends.

The bells, that had grown hoarse with tolling funerals, were now cracked with joyous peals.

The general joy extended even to the sick, and many, buoyed up by hope, recovered, when in the former season of despondency they would inevitably have perished.

All fear of the plague seemed to vanish with the flying disorder.

Those who were scarcely out of danger joined in the throng, and it was no uncommon sight to see men with bandages round their necks, or supported by staves and crutches, shaking hands with their friends, and even embracing them.
The consequence of this incautious conduct may be easily foreseen.