There was a concert , and a sailor from one of the ships was there , and took sick the next day . '' This was alarming enough . Charlottetown was not so very far away and considerable traffic went on between it and the north shore districts . When Caroline recounted the concert story to Christopher the next morning his ruddy face turned quite pale . He opened his lips as if to speak , then closed them again . They were sitting in the kitchen ; Caroline had run over to return some tea she had borrowed , and , incidentally , to see what she could of Victoria 's housekeeping in her absence . Her eyes had been busy while her tongue ran on , so she did not notice the man 's pallor and silence . `` How long does it take for smallpox to develop after one has been exposed to it ? '' he asked abruptly , when Caroline rose to go . `` Ten to fourteen days , I calc ` late , '' was her answer . `` I must see about having the girls vaccinated right off . It 'll likely spread . When do you expect Victoria home ? '' `` When she 's ready to come , whenever that will be , '' was the gruff response . A week later Caroline said to Eunice , `` Whatever 's got Christopher ? He has n't been out anywhere for ages -- just hangs round home the whole time . It 's something new for him . I s ` pose the place is so quiet , now Madam Victoria 's away , that he can find some rest for his soul . I believe I 'll run over after milking and see how he 's getting on . You might as well come , too , Eunice . ''
XXXXX shook her head .
Caroline Charlottetown Christopher Eunice Victoria ages days rest right soul