[55] [Note in final draft.] Mr. Deane, one of the ministers of Andover,
then near fourscore, seems to have been in danger. He is tenderly
touched in several of the examinations, which might be owing to a fair
character, and he may be one of the persons accused, who caused a
discouragement to further prosecutions. “Deliverance Deane being asked
why she and the rest brought in Mr. Deane as afflicting persons, she
answered, it was Satan’s subtilty, for he told her he would put a sham
upon all these things, and make people believe that he did afflict.
She said Mrs. Osgood and she gave their consent the devil should bring
Mr. Deane’s shape to afflict. Being asked again if Mrs. Osgood and she
acted this business, she said yes.” Mr. Deane was much beholden to this
woman.