Plague - Apr 08

At the bottom of each pit a deep layer of quicklime steamed and seethed. ________(坑边) a low ridge of quicklime threw up bubbles that burst in the air above it.

Thus, in this respect, the authorities still gave thought to propriety and it was only later that, ________(为形势所迫), ________(这最后一点廉耻) ________([行为方式]被放弃), and men and women were flung into the death-pits indiscriminately.

In the period we are now concerned with, the separation of the sexes was still in force and the authorities ________(认为它极为必要).

When the ambulance had finished its trips, the stretchers were carried to the pits ________(一路纵队).

On the following day ________(直系亲属) were asked to sign the register of burials, which showed the distinction that can be made between men and, for example, dogs; men’s deaths are checked and entered up.

But, paradoxically enough, once the whole town was in the grip of the disease, its very prevalence tended to make things easier, since the disorganization of the town’s economic life ________(造成了大量人员失业).

And unless they too had ________(停止工作) for good, they never failed to appear when summoned.

The critical moment came just before the outbreak ________(达到高峰), and the doctor had good reason for feeling anxious.