"The Crucible" by Arthur Miller, Act Two

ineptly

with ineptitude; in an incompetent manner

friction

a state of conflict between persons

condemnation

an expression of strong disapproval

conviction

an unshakable belief in something without need for proof

magistate

a lay judge or civil authority who administers the law

pallor

an unnatural lack of color in the skin

ameliorate

make better

indignant

angered at something unjust or wrong

pious

having or showing or expressing reverence for a deity

lechery

unrestrained indulgence in sexual activity

grapple

grip or seize, as in a wrestling match

daft

foolish or mentally irregular

pretense

the act of giving a false appearance

falter

move hesitatingly, as if about to give way

wily

marked by skill in deception