said Hilton. “You say a dog approached you?” “Yes, sir, that’s right.” “And he spoke to you?” “Yes sir.” “I see. And what kind of dog was it?” “I don’t know; a big black one.” “A big black dog?” “Yes.” “All right, continue.” “Objection. Your Honor, pah-leeze.” Again the gallery erupted in gasps and sighs, and once more the gavel came down hard. “Miss Adams, I will not warn you again. You are not allowed to object.” “Then how can I defend myself? Where is my council? And why haven’t I been afforded due process under the—” “Silence. Bailiff, gag this woman.” “No, no. Don’t gag me. I’m cool. Look, I’ll just sit here and chill. You guys go on. Don’t mind me.” Hilton waited for the last of the murmurs to subside before returning to Putnam for questioning. By now Putnam had nearly fiddled the brim clean off his hat. He may have testified against countless accused witches before, but I got the feeling he never actually met up with a real one—until now.
