In this story, the rats aren't the problem - the fleas on the rats are. They come on boats from overseas. They carry a disease known as the black plague.
In this story, A poor boy named Albert catches the black plague.
Kate McKelvie and her mother were walking home when their neighbour Mrs Howard stopped them.
Please come in. Its Albert - he is not well.
Kate, you go back home. I don't want you to catch what Albert has. Get gran on the way back.
Mrs McKelvie goes with Mrs Howard to check on Albert and finds that he is very unwell.
My poor little Albert he is in so much pain.
Ahhhhh
Ohh
Ahhhhh
Mrs Howard is unsure what to do so she calls a doctor.
What do you think it is?
I've called the doctors - they should be here soon. I hope!
Whatever it is, it is not good!
[Meanwhile]
Okay, you stay here.
H
What is it Kate? Are you okay?
Gran, it's Albert. He is really sick. Mam wants you to go over!
Kate runs home to send gran to help Albert. Kate's younger sister Issy doesn't understand what's going on.