She had obeyed at once, without pausing to ask the questions which trembled on her lips.

That something of ill had befallen she could not doubt; but at least her father was safe, and she must wait with what patience she could for the explanation of her sudden dismissal.
She knew from her brother's reports that already infected houses were shut up, and none permitted to go forth.

But so straitly had she herself been of late imprisoned within doors, that she felt it would make but little difference were she to hear that a watchman guarded the door, and that the fatal red cross had been painted upon it.
"Our neighbours are not fearful as we are.

They go to and fro in the streets.

They seek to do what they can for the relief of the sick.