I wish I could help you but sorry
I’m not 100% sure of the people who spoke out to defend but there was punishment which resulted in death. They would drown them or execute them, I’m assuming they would do the same to the defenders in fear of them also being related to witchcrafts somehow
The meaning of the word 'ambling' as used in the passage is to WALK OR STROLL.
In the passage, the author is saying that, he finds it distasteful to strut before a small child who is walking or strolling in a relaxed manner.
The meaning of the word 'curtailed' as used in the passage is to BE DEPRIVED OF SOMETHING.
The author is saying in this line, that he is deprived of beauty.
