Summary

In Chapter 4, the men begin their search for a witch to teach Diana, though as a group they have “a collective disregard for women, witches, and everyone who lacked a university education” (44). Matthew chooses Widow Beaton. She is a poor woman who lives locally, in the village of Woodstock, and the only woman nearby with magic. Diana is worried, partly because she knows that women accused of witchcraft during this time are often persecuted. Matthew dismisses the concern. Widow Beaton arrives and Francoise takes a few moments to add a ruff to Diana's collar, completing her ensemble despite Matthew's objections. Diana describes Widow Beaton as “the witch from central casting” (50), right down to the wart on her nose. Matthew asks Widow Beaton to “examine” Diana for signs she is a witch. There is a surge of power when their hands touch, but the...