Summary

In “Voyage Four: 1661,” Edward Paxmore, an indentured servant, was taken to court by his master because Edward had been “arguing about the works of God” (189). Edward was in court the same day a professed Quaker, Thomas Kenworthy, was sentenced to be whipped and then hanged. Edward was punished by being chained to Thomas when he questioned the judge about Thomas’ punishment. During their time together, Thomas taught Edward the tenants of the Quaker faith. Later, when Edward was brought before the judge, he claimed to be a Quaker. As a punishment, Edward was taken to four Massachusetts towns and whipped in each town.

At the third town, Edward met Ruth Britton, a Quaker woman whom Thomas had talked about. Ruth also was being whipped for being a Quaker. After his whippings were finished, Edward was taken to Rhode Island and...