As it is my object to bring before you every thing that may help to
explain the particular occurrences embraced in the account I am to
give of the witchcraft prosecutions, two other persons must be
mentioned before concluding this branch of my subject,--George Jacobs,
Sr., and his son George Jacobs, Jr. They each had given offence to
some persons, and suffered that sort of notoriety which led to the
selection of victims, although both were persons of respectability.
The father owned and had lived for about a half-century on a farm in
North Fields, on the banks of Endicott River, a little to the eastward
of the bridge at the iron-foundery. He was a person of good estate and
an estimable man; but it was his misfortune to have an impulsive
nature and quick passions. In June, 1677, he was prosecuted and fined
for striking a man who had incensed him. George Jacobs, Jr., his only
son, at a court held Nov. 7, 1674, was prosecuted, "found blamable,
and ordered to pay costs of court." His offence and defence are
embraced in his deposition on the occasion.

"GEORGE JACOBS'S ANSWER TO NATHANIEL PUTNAM'S
COMPLAINT.--That I did follow some horses in our enclosure on
the Royal Side, where they were trespassing upon us; that the
end of my following them was to take them; but, rather than
they would be taken, they took the water, and I did follow
them no further; but straightway they turned ashore, and I
did run to take them as they came out of the water, but could
not: and I can truly take my oath that since that time I did
never follow any horses or mares; and I hope my own oath will
clear me."

The result of his attempt to drive off the horses was, that several
valuable animals were drowned. Their owner, Nathaniel Putnam, brought