"She is somewhat easier now.

But has your ladyship courage to listen to what I have to tell you ?" "Have I ever shown want of courage, Sarah, that you should put such a question ?" rejoined Lady Lake, sharply.
"But this is something frightful, my lady." "Then do not hesitate to disclose it." "Has your ladyship never thought it a strange illness by which you and my Lady Roos have been seized ?" said Sarah, coming close up to her, and speaking in a low, hurried tone, as if afraid of being overheard, or interrupted.
"Why should I think it strange, Sarah ?" returned Lady Lake, regarding her fixedly.

"It is a dreadful and infectious fever which I have taken from my daughter; and that is the reason why Sir Thomas, and all others, except Luke Hatton and yourself, are forbidden to come near us.

What we should have done without you, Sarah, I know not, for Luke Hatton tells me the rest of the household shun us as they would a pestilence.

I trust you will escape the disorder, and if I am spared your devotion shall be adequately requited.