Chapter 1 Summary

Fever 1793 tells the story of Mattie Cook, a young girl who comes of age in Philadelphia during a tumultuous period of epidemic. Mattie is a typical young American girl who lives with her mother in a coffeehouse operated by the family. The business is profitable and enjoyable until rumors begin to circulate of fever. The rumors are proved true as hundreds and then thousands sicken and die from the disease. Mattie's mother, several friends, and Mattie herself eventually contract the disease - many survive, but some die. At the conclusion of the novel, Mattie has matured into a capable young woman who looks forward to life with a certainty of purpose.

Mattie Cook tries to sleep in but is awakened by her mother's insistent shouts. Mattie is informed that Polly, the working girl, has not reported for work at the Cook Coffeehouse and...