Everybody admired his courage. The cholera in 1831 was very
bad in Langborough, and the people were in a panic at the new disease,
which was fatal in many cases within six hours after the first attack.
The Rector through that dark time was untouched by the contagious dread
which overpowered his parishioners, and his presence carried confidence
and health. On the worst day, sultry, stifling, with no sun, an
indescribable terror crept abroad, and Mr. Cobb, standing at his gate,
was overcome by it. In five minutes he had heard of two deaths, and he
began to feel what were called "premonitory symptoms." He carried a
brandy flask in his pocket, brandy being then considered a remedy, and
he drank freely, but imagined himself worse. He was about to rush
indoors and tell Mrs. Cobb to send for the surgeon, when the Rector
passed.
"Ah, Mr. Cobb! I was just about to call on you; glad to see you looking
so well when there's so much sickness. We shall want you on the School
Committee this evening," and then he explained some business which was
to be discussed.
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