Book 2 of 40

Part One
Gilbert’s son Matthew is needing some direction in life. Matthew is sent to a small town in England, Bedford. There he meets his wife and the famous John Bunyan.

Part Two
Gilbert’s granddaughter, Rachel, is coming of age.

Part Three
Gilbert’s granddaughter is accused of witchcraft during the Salem witch trials. ( )

This book has 3 settings, Bedford in 1659, Plymouth in 1675, and Salem in 1691.

The story starts with Martha pointing Matthew Winslow out to Catherine. Catherine thought he probably had a big head & wouldn't be much in Boston. Martha thought that it was like witchcraft the way he found pretty women. Cathrine Brent is Marthha's cousin visiting from Boston, and Matthew hopes her stay will not be short. Although she thrilled when he kissed her hand, she said there wasn't much to interest her in this little place. His parents wanted him to be a minister like his father, Reverend Gilbert Winslow, who came over on the Mayflower with his mother. Catherine was looking forward to Mr. Winslow's visit the next day.

Edward Winslow returned from England & was greeted by Gilbert & Humility. He had been gone 2 years, and he could tell by looking at Humility that she was sick. Gilbert invited him to eat with them, as Humility had been cooking for his return. Gilbert, Edward, & Humility were some of the few Firstcomers still alive. They walked up the main street, noticing the buildings. While they were eating, they discussed the brevity of Gilbert's sermons. Gilbert defended himself with an occurance when he first started preaching. Humility didn't think he had changed much in the 40 years she had known him. She remembered when she was healthy, & dismissed the men to visit the governor. Governor Bradford welcomed them, then asked what would happen since Cromwell was no longer living. Edward informed him that Cromwell's son, Richard, had taken his place, but the English would want their king back. After they left, the brothers discussed where Matthew had gotten his horse. Gilbert & Humility had several stillborn children, but Matthew had survived, having a strong body & a rebellious spirit. When they arrived home, Matthew greeted them, and Edward compared Gilbert to their father. Edward asked what Matthew had been doing while he was away. Matthew wanted to go into the army, but his father felt it was impossible. Edward explained that The Model Army of Cromwell was no longer since Cromwell was dead, and it was expected that Charles II would become ruler. After they discussed what Matthew might do, Humility was sad that Matthew would be leaving them. Edward commented on Gilbert's rapier hanging on the wall, which had been made by Clemens Hornn. The next day, Edward said that Matthew needed some Liberty. Then he suggested that Matthew go with him to England, to a small town where the pastor, "Holy Mr. Gifford" had once been a Major in the Royalist Army. Edward assured that Matthew would be bored in Bedford, but he would be safe. ( )