An urban legend is like a myth, from the urban environment. For example, an urban legend is that the daddy long legs spider is poisonous enough to kill a human, faster than any other spider, but can't because it's teeth aren't sharp enough. This is a myth, but still many people believe it.
If this was about Japan, they called for expansions into
other territories and launched military campaigns and the country became more
militaristic. They invaded China and seized Manchuria. This would lead to invasion and occupation of
other Asian countries as well.
I believe the answer is: From the excerpt above, proctor want to say to Puutnam that even people with power could not do everything without consequences.
Putnam's thinks they can get what they want and get a way with anything due to the wealth that they have and the influence that they have within the chruch. They fail to realize that people could instantly turn and become a threat to them anytime.
