24 March 1691, Thursday
I attended Rebecca Nurse’s pre-trial examination this day. Tis a sight never to be witnessed again in my lifetime, my child’s lifetime, nor any lifetime after that. Father remains fascinated by the happenings in the Village, and though I would rather bury my head in the sand and pretend all is well, I was once again persuaded to accompany him to the proceedings. In truth, I did not go entirely because of Father’s wishes. I went for Lizzie, who begged me to see for myself. Lizzie wanted to go, and she would have gone, but for the first time since our marriage I put my foot down and forbid her. There is too much randomness to the accusations. I do not want anyone to see Lizzie anywhere near the accusers or the accused. I do not want her associated with anyone naming
