Before we look at his next proceeding, however, we must bring into view
one or two facts essential to the understanding of the case. We have
already observed on the universality of the belief in the ever-present
agency of Satan in that region and that special season. In the woods the
Red Men were his agents--living in and for his service and his worship.
In the open country, Satan himself was seen, as a black horse, a black
dog, as a tall, dark stranger, as a raven, a wolf, a cat, etc. Strange
incidents happened there as everywhere--odd bodily affections and mental
movements; and when devilish influences are watched for, they are sure
to be seen. Everybody was prepared for manifestations of witchcraft from
the first landing in the Bay; and there had been more and more cases,
not only rumored, but brought under investigation, for some years before
the final outbreak.
This suggests the next consideration: that the generation concerned
had no "alternative" explanation within their reach, when perplexed by
unusual appearances or actions of body or mind. They believed themselves
perfectly certain about the Devil and his doings; and his agency was the
only solution of their difficulties, while it was a very complete one.
They thought they knew that his method of working was by human agents,
whom he had won over and bound to his service. They had all been brought
up to believe this; and they never thought of doubting it.