Dallison told him that the alarm was worse than ever--that vast numbers were endeavouring to leave the city, but no one could now do so without a certificate, which was never granted if the slightest suspicion was attached to the party.
"If things go on in this way," said the porter, "London will soon be deserted.

No business is conducted, as it used to be, and everybody is viewed with distrust.

The preachers, who ought to be the last to quit, have left their churches, and the Lord's day is no longer observed.

Many medical men even have departed, declaring their services are no longer of any avail.

All public amusements are suspended, and the taverns are only open to the profane and dissolute, who deride God's judgments, and declare they have no fear.