what is the author's purpose in reporting the many differing opinions about what happens to Tom's wife?

The author's purpose in noting the many rumors surrounding the disappearance of Tom's wife add to the illusion. We know that Tom's wife has been swept away..... eliminated by the evil one. Because the townspeople are unaware that Old Scratch has been visiting..... came up with their own theories. We might look at the gossip as Old Scratch in action.