Methinks that a more terrible thing than the plague itself is the cruel fear which it inspires, whereby families are rent asunder, and the sick are neglected and deserted in the hour of their utmost need.

If indeed Frederick should fall a victim, this house will be straitly shut up; and if it be true what men say, the infection will spread through it, do what we will to keep it away.

Then what can it matter whether the risk be a little more or less?
Is it not better that I should be with my mother and my brother, than that I should seek my own safety by shutting myself up apart from all, a readier prey to grief and terror?
Methinks I should the sooner fall ill thus shut away from all.
Prithee let me take my place beside Frederick, and relieve my mother when she be weary; so do I think it will be best for me and her." The father's face quivered with emotion as he took his daughter in his arms and kissed her tenderly.
"Thou shalt do as thou wilt, my sweet child," he said.

"These indeed are fearful days, and it may be that happier are they who let their heart be ruled by love instead of by fear.

Fear has become a cruel thing, from what men tell us.