Priscilla's Diary (Salem Witch Trials)

5 March 1692

    Yesterday, I thought everything was a rumor from what Catherine had told me almost a week ago, but more news came in. She came up to me while I was harvesting woads with Elinor and Margaret standing nearby and she told me that someone had confessed to studying witchcraft and, once again, there are rumors that a witch hunt will occur. I hope nothing bad will happen to my family, even if that seems selfish, I want the best for them.
    This morning though, I was making forced eggs for Bernard and the oldest kids and gave Elinor some whortleberries. I remembered to mention what happened to Ralph and his doublet and hoped that Bernard would know how to handle it. I’m worried that Ralph is becoming acquainted with a mean boy and may get into more serious trouble. Bernard seemed to want nothing to do with the doublet situation and seemed more focused on something else. I called for his attention and he asked what was wrong. I told him again that I’m worried about Ralph being around this boy. Bernard told me to just let him be, and then informed me that he was interested in helping the other men in town go on a witch hunt. I warned him to be careful and to not bring any devil spirits back with him. There is nothing I can really do to stop him. Bernard does what Bernard wants to do.
    Just a few minutes ago, I found a beaded string of cloth that Ralph was trying to hide from me and I assume it was a wampum. I’m only nervous because how did it get into his possession.