It is that which reveals the presence of the pestilence, but is not itself the real danger.
"The Expositor's Bible: The Gospel of St. John, Vol. I"
Marcus Dods
To bring your letter to your mind, I may observe it is one in which you describe the condition of the people on the estate, and the fatal inroads then making upon them by famine and pestilence.
"The Martins Of Cro' Martin, Vol. II (of II)"
Charles James Lever
Blessed be Plague and pestilence and the Illness of Nations....
"Fortitude"
Hugh Walpole