“Seen too many frightful proofs in court- the Devil is alive in Salem and we dare not quail to follow where the accusing finger points.”

In act 2, Francis Nurse implores Reverend Hale to acknowledge the court's drastic mistake by arresting his wife and Martha Corey. Both Rebecca Nurse and Martha Corey are respected, morally-upright citizens, and they are known throughout the community as honorable Christians. Hale initially responds by telling Francis by telling him the Devil is in Salem and they have to follow the clues. Really Hale is caught up in the Hysteria.