What happens to Marguerite's uncle as they approach the shores of America? What does Marguerite find most devastating about this?

As they approach the shores of America, an outbreak of disease spreads from a sailor on board the ship to Marguerite's uncle. Most likely the illness is the measles or smallpox. The illness takes the life of Marguerite's uncle. To add to Marguerite's devastation, the sailors toss all of her uncle's belongings over the side of the ship, including his beloved violin, to prevent further spread of the illness. All Marguerite is able to save of her uncle's is a button that she wears on a cord around her neck.