*Alexander*
Across the table, my father slices a thick chunk of bread, and Phineas is already pouring broth into his mouth. Mother dabs at her lips with a napkin, her expression tighter than usual, her gaze shifting toward the window as if expecting trouble to peer in. Many women have been arrested over the last few days, among them Rebecca Nurse, Sarah Good, Sarah Osborne, Sarah Wildes, Elizabeth Howe, and Susannah Martin.
I take a deep breath, and try to make cheerful conversation with my family in spite of the gloom looming over us. “The stew is warm and hearty, Mother. Thank you.”
“You’re most welcome, Alexander,” she murmurs. “I was just thinking, and it may not be lady-like to speak of it at supper, but I knew that Sarah Good was with child.”
My grip tightens on my spoon. The t
