John Alden Jr Accused of Witchcraft!
History of Salem by Sidney Perley, 1924,
John Alden. Perley cites him as
the son of John Alden and Priscilla Mullins.
This John was, at the time, 70 years of age, wealthy and resided in Boston.
He was sent for on May 28th and arrived May 31st. Gedney, Hawthorne and
Corwin conducted his examination. When the accusing girls discovered that
it was John Alden, of Plymouth fame, they cried out against him, "there
stands Alden, a bold fellow, with his hat on before the judges, he sells
powder and shot to the Indians and French and lies with the Indian squaws,
and has Indian papooses."
The magistrates "bid Alden look upon the accusers, " which he did, and they
fell down. Alden asked Mr. Gedney what reason there was why his looking at Mr. Gedney did
not strike him down as well, but no answer was forthcoming.
Alden was sent to jail, but escaped therefrom.
