Flight Of The Sparrow: A Novel of Early America

Mary meets with Increase Mather, who encourages her to write her captivity narrative as a “testament to God’s mercy” (222). Mary is unsure and says she will pray for God’s guidance on the matter.

Later that summer, news arrives that the Indigenous Americans have been beaten, and many are hanged. Joseph forces Mary to attend the hangings. He tells Mary that the Indigenous Americans who repent and ask for amnesty will be given as indentured servants to English families.

One hot summer night, James appears in Mary’s yard.

James asks Mary for her help. He wants her to advocate on his behalf so he will not be hanged for helping the Nipmuc against the English. She agrees to do what she can, and James leaves.

A few days later, Mary meets again with Increase Mather. She agrees to write her captivity narrative in exchange for amnesty for James Printer. He accepts the deal.

A few days later, Mary meets again with Increase. He tells her that he has secured a deal for James provided he comes with the heads of two Nipmuc as a sign of his loyalty. Daniel Goodkin, Silvanus’s former enslaver, insisted on this condition.