Ironically, this is a better plan of action than that of Thomas Putnam who, after revealing that his only daughter, Ruth, is also ailing, insists that Parris, "[D]eclare it yourself. You have discovered witchcraft-- " (15) Reverend Parris has been in Salem for three years and is their "third preacher in seven years"" (28) His tenure is a testament to one of two things. Either he is extremely committed to making the lives of the people of Salem better, or he established that his authority wasn't to be questioned. Neither approach seems to have worked, as there is still a divide in the church. John Proctor himself, when confronted by Putnam about his attendance at church, admits, "I have enough trouble without I come five mile to hear him preach only hellfire and bloody damnation"" (27) This only enrages Reverend Parris, who believes that obedience is the only thing required from the parishioners. The contention between he and Proctor is evident throughout their argument, but the last straw comes when Proctor asserts his right to speak his mind. Parris retaliates quickly, thinking he's found the root of all his problems, "What, are we Quakers? We are not Quakers here yet, Mr. Proctor. And you may tell that to your followers!"" (28) Parris believes that Proctor is the leader of the faction against him. This isn't the first time that Parris and Proctor have come into conflict. This new contention is only further fueled by the accusations of witchcraft spilling from the lips of Thomas and Ann Putnam and the girls. The enmity of Parris and Proctor comes up again in Act III when Proctor arrives in the court to try and free his wife and the wives of Francis Nurse and Giles Corey. Parris, who seems to be enjoying his newfound power and authority, instantly recognizes their group as a threat and tries his hardest to discredit the three. When Proctor introduces himself in the courthouse, Parris interjects, warning Judge Danforth that, "this man is mischief"" (81) The tension between the groups reaches a head when Mr.
