cried Endicott , looking triumphantly on his work ; `` there lies the only Maypole in New England . The thought is strong within me that by its fall is shadowed forth the fate of light and idle mirthmakers amongst us and our posterity . Amen , saith John Endicott ! '' `` Amen ! '' echoed his followers . But the votaries of the Maypole gave one groan for their idol . At the sound the Puritan leader glanced at the crew of Comus , each a figure of broad mirth , yet at this moment strangely expressive of sorrow and dismay . `` Valiant captain , '' quoth Peter Palfrey , the ancient of the band , `` what order shall be taken with the prisoners ? '' `` I thought not to repent me of cutting down a Maypole , '' replied Endicott , `` yet now I could find in my heart to plant it again and give each of these bestial pagans one other dance round their idol . It would have served rarely for a whipping-post . '' `` But there are pine trees enow , '' suggested the lieutenant . `` True , good ancient , '' said the leader . `` Wherefore bind the heathen crew and bestow on them a small matter of stripes apiece as earnest of our future justice . Set some of the rogues in the stocks to rest themselves so soon as Providence shall bring us to one of our own well-ordered settlements where such accommodations may be found . Further penalties , such as branding and cropping of ears , shall be thought of hereafter . '' `` How many stripes for the priest ? '' inquired Ancient Palfrey . `` None as yet , '' answered Endicott , bending his iron frown upon the culprit . `` It must be for the Great and General Court to determine whether stripes and long imprisonment , and other grievous penalty , may atone for his transgressions . Let him look to himself .
For such as violate our civil order it may be permitted us to show mercy , but woe XXXXX the wretch that troubleth our religion ! ''
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