13165_9319_puritans9
In this clip, from a silent film telling the story of the Puritans, Governor Winthrop tries to convince some pilgrims to defend the Puritan Charter.A decree is signed, and pilgrims in ruffs exit a room in Governor Winthrop’s house. Two men speak outside, and back inside, Winthrop begs Roger WIlliams to be silent about his concerns over Indians and land rights. Williams says that he cannot promise his silence. He leaves. There is a gathering of pilgrims in a room, and Reverend John Cotton begins to speak in MS from a Bible. The Pilgrims stand, then sit again. The decree and the demand that the Charter be returned is announced, and Winthrop calls for the people to defend the Charter.