re: the litchfield county times article (available via google)-- the ct. historian, walter woodward. specifically mentions john winthrop jr. (son of THE john winthrop) --govenor of CT -- as being fascinated with alchemy and magic. he was also a member of the royal society of london for improving natural knowledge, and as one of the most sought after doctors in the new england colonies. of course, the list of alchemists is long -- and full of respectable names -- but alchemy was considered magic by 17th century religions. oh and -- he was influential in the ct witch trials.