There was time for so much to happen during seven years.
But the Rev.Master Parris's little niece, Abigail Williams, was present, and several other older members of the "circle," prepared to witness against the old man to any extent that seemed to be necessary.
After these had made their customary charges, and had gone through some of their usual paroxysms, Joseph Putnam, accompanied by Goodman Buckley, came forward.
"This is all folly," said Joseph Putnam stoutly.

"We all know Antipas Newton; and that he has been deranged in his intellects, and of unsound mind for the last twenty years.

He is generally peaceful and quiet; though in times of excitement like the present, liable to be driven into outbreaks of violent madness.

Here is his employer, Goodman Buckley, who of course knows him best, and who will testify to all this even more conclusively than I can." Then Goodman Buckley took the oath with uplifted hand, and gave similar evidence.

No one had even doubted for twenty years past, that Antipas was simple-minded.