Settlers of Massachusetts Were of two sets: Those by Grace of God elected; Those rejected. One good way to tell the sainted From the tainted Was that those whose prayers were heeded Had succeeded. As a rule it therefore followed That the hallowed Were the favored upper classes, Not the masses. Quite a number of the lowly Acted holy, Hoping they had been elected Unsuspected. Others reasoned, after learning Hell-fire burning Was to be their fate forever, —Now or never. They were common people which is Why so many turned out witches.
We hope you enjoy our work.
Please support this 72-year tradition of trusted historical writing and the volunteers that sustain it with a donation to American Heritage.