The Orphan Collector

by Ellen Marie Wiseman

“When obliged to cough or sneeze, always place a handkerchief, paper napkin, or fabric of some kind before the face,”

“You’re not getting on without a mask,” the conductor said. He let the other man on, then blocked the maskless man from boarding. Anger hardened the man’s face. “I have a meeting and I can’t be late,” he said. “I insist you allow me to get on.” “Sorry,” the conductor said. “Those are the rules.”

Meanwhile, The Philadelphia Inquirer scorned the closing of public places: What are the authorities trying to do? Scare everyone to death? What is to be gained by shutting up well-ventilated churches and theaters and letting people press into trolley cars? What then should a man do to prevent panic and fear? Live a calm life. Do not discuss influenza. Worry is useless. Talk of cheerful things instead of disease.