King James King James I (1603-1625) of England. He ordered the translation of the Bible, now called the King James Version.
John the Baptist the preacher who announced in the Bible the coming of Jesus. He was beheaded by Herod whom he accused of adultery.
John Wilson the Reverend John Wilson (1588-1667), a minster who was considered a great clergyman and teacher. He was a prosecutor of Anne Hutchinson.
physic [Archaic] medicine.
the Lord of Misrule a part acted out in court masques in England during the Christmas season. He was part of a pagan, not Christian, myth.
a pearl of great price see the story in Matthew 13:45-46, about a merchant who sold all his goods for one pearl of great worth, which represents the kingdom of heaven. Wilson is saying here that Pearl may find salvation.
New England Primer a book used to teach Puritan children their alphabet and reinforrce moral and spiritual lessons.
Westminster Catechism printed in 1648, it was used to teach Puritan religious lessons and the pillars of church doctrine.
tithing-men men who collect church taxes.
