every body's affairs, they were like to ruin the plantation.

Upon the conclusion of the testimony, the witness was sharply
cross-questioned by Governor Winthrop, and some inquires were made by
various Assistants, but nothing further was elicited. As for Joy, he
disdained to ask a question, declaring that his accuser, Timpson, had
already been in the stocks for leasing; and, besides, had been
cudgelled by himself for stealing.

Hezekiah Timpson, a villainous, lean, crop-haired fellow, with a
hang-dog look, and sanctimonious air, upon hearing himself charged
with delinquencies, which were notorious to the whole Court, raised to
heaven his eyes, which, until now, he had kept fastened on the floor,
and, sighing deeply, exclaimed:

"I do confess my iniquities and my sins are ever before me. Verily,
was I thus given over to Satan to be buffeted but by free-grace have I
been snatched, as a brand from the burning, even as I yet hope to see
thee, Philip."

"Canting rogue, I want none of thy hopes, good or bad," said Joy.

"Cease thy reviling," cried Dudley, starting from his seat. "What! are
we to sit here to listen to malapert railings against men of godly
life and conversation?" he added, addressing himself to Winthrop. But
before the Governor could reply, one of the Assistants interposed.

"Let the poor man unbosom himself freely," he said, "that the whole
truth may come to light."