It must be remembered in reading these reports, that the accused were not allowed any counsel, either at the preliminary examinations, or on the trials; that the apparent sufferings of the children were very great, producing almost a frenzied state of feeling in the crowd who looked on; and that they themselves were often as much puzzled as their accusers, to account for what was taking place before their eyes.
In the examination of Sarah Osburn, we have similar questions and similar answers. In addition, however, three witnesses alleged that she had said that very morning, that she was "more like to be bewitched herself." Mr. Hathorne asked why she said that. She answered that either she saw at one time, or dreamed that she saw, a thing like an Indian, all black, which did pinch her in the neck, and pulled her by the back part of the head to the door of the house. And there was also a lying spirit.
"What lying spirit was this?"
"It was a voice that I thought I heard."
"What did it say to you?"
"That I should go no more to meeting; but I said I would, and did go the next Sabbath day."
"Were you ever tempted further?"
"No."
"Why did you yield then to the Devil, not to go to meeting for the last three years?"
"Alas! I have been sick all that time, and not able to go."