in the matter——he could give very few technical details, though he had met the local doctor. It appeared, however, that it was an almost new disease——at least in this century, though it might prove to be identical with the 'Plague' recorded in History——very infectious, and frightfully rapid in its action. "It will not, however, prevent our party to-morrow," he said in conclusion. "None of the guests belong to the infected district, which is, as you know, exclusively peopled by fishermen: so you may come without any fear."

Arthur was very silent, all the way back, and, on reaching our lodgings, immediately plunged into medical studies, connected with the alarming malady of whose arrival we had just heard.