The Crucible p. 30-49

"Proctor: I've heard you to be a sensible man, Mr. Hale. Let's hope you leave some of it in Salem" (37).

At least Proctor is being smart about this witch scandal. He is hoping that Reverend Hale is smart when it comes to the witch business. He expects Hale to understand that the supernatural is a myth, and not something common and all around. I think that that is a lot of pressure on Hale, and a lot of assuming on Proctor's part. Hale is surrounded by people who believe- most ardently- that Betty and Ruth are under a spell, so it would be hard for him to break away and say his true opinion, which he wouldn't do anyway, because he believes in witches. It is a lot for Proctor to assume of the Reverend, because Proctor barely even knows him.

"Rebecca: I wish I knew. She goes out; they feel resentful of her note of moral superiority" (40).

I rolled my eyes. Why does the last sensible one have to leave the group of morons to fend for themselves in the dark? Hale seems perfectly normal until Rebecca leaves, and, regretfully, becomes a superstitious dumbass. Hale suddenly turns and begins to attack Abigail and Tituba on the Devil and his witches. Sadly, Proctor and Rebecca are both gone, and so is any hope for common sense.