Martha. I say, if a gospel woman is to be hung as a witch for every stumbling ox and sick cat, 'tis setting a high value upon oxen and cats.
Giles. I would mine had all been knocked in the head, lass, and me too!
Hathorne. Peace! Ann Hutchins, what saw you when Goodwife Corey went home with you through the wood?
Ann. Hold fast her hands, I pray, or she will kill me. The trees were so full of yellow birds that it sounded as if a mighty wind passed over them, and the birds lit on Goody Corey's head. And black beasts ran alongside through the bushes, which did break and crackle, and they were at Goody Corey and me to go to the witch dance on the hill. And they said to bring Olive Corey and Paul Bayley. And Goody Corey told them how she and Olive would presently come, but not Paul, for he never would sign the book, not even though Olive trapped him by the arts they had taught her. And Goody Corey showed me the book then, and besought me to sign, and go with her to the dance. And when I would not, she and Olive also afflicted me so grievously that I thought I could not live, and have done so ever since.
Hathorne. What say you to this, Goodwife Corey?
Martha. I pray your worship believe not what she doth charge against my daughter.
Corwin. Mercy Lewis, do you say that you have seen both of the accused afflicting Ann Hutchins?
Mercy. Yes, your worship, many a time have I seen them pressing her to sign the book, and afflicting when she would not.
Corwin. How looked the book?
Mercy. 'Twas black, your worship, with blood-red clasps.