"I'll tell them at your office," and with that he bolted suddenly.
It rather pleased me to imagine the sensation which his news would occasion not only down stairs among Mrs Nash's lodgers, but also at the office.

I could hear the sound of eager voices below, followed by what I fancied was the hurried stampede of the company from the house.

Then presently Mrs Nash's foot sounded on the stairs, and she opened the door.
"Have you had it, Mrs Nash ?" I cried, as she appeared.
She made no answer, but walked up straight to my bed.

"What's all this nonsense about ?" she demanded.
"I'm afraid it's smallpox.

I'm so sorry on your account," I said, quite meekly.