Lectures on Witchcraft; Comprising a History of the Delusion in Salem, in 1692 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1831. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... Dr Hibbert, ifi* is excellent book on the 'Philosophy of Apparitions, 'illustrates some remarks similar to those just made by the following quotation from Mr Wesley, -- 'It is true that the English in general, and indeed most of the men in Europe, have given up all accounts of witches and apparitions, as mere old wives' fables. I am sorry for it; and I willingly take this opportunity of entering my solemn protest against this violent compliment, which so many that believe the Bible pay to those, who do not believe it. I owe them no such service. I take knowledge, these are at the bottom of the outcry which has been raised, and with such insolence spread throughout the nation in direct opposition not only to the Bible, but to the suffrage of the wisest and best men in all ages and nations. They well know (whether Christians know it or not) that the giving up witchcraft is, in effect, giving up the Bible. And they know on the other hand, that, if but one account of the intercourse of men with separate spirits be admitted, their whole castle in the air (deism, atheism, materialism) falls to the ground. I know no reason, therefore, why we should suffer even this weapon to be wrested out of our hands. Indeed, there are' numerous arguments besides, which abundantly confute their vain imaginations. But we need not be hooted out of one; neither reason nor religion requires this.' The belief in witchcraft continued to hold a conspicuous place among the popular superstitions of New England during the whole of the last century, Many now living can remember the time when it prevailed very generally. Each town and village had its peculiar traditionary tales, which were gravely related by the old, and deeply impressed upon the young. Innumerable instances might be adduced....