Final answer:
Abigail's claim about Mary and the bird is a manipulative tactic during a witch-trial panic, aimed at casting suspicion on Mary and strengthening her own position. The success of this claim depends on the unfolding events and Abigail's ability to maintain control and authority within the community.
Step-by-step explanation:
Abigail's claim that Mary is threatening her in the form of a bird is a strategic maneuver in the context of a witch-trial panic. Abigail is likely attempting to manipulate the situation to her advantage by casting suspicion on Mary, thus diverting attention away from herself and possibly eliminating a rival. This accusation of Mary using familiar spirits or engaging in witchcraft is a common trope in such historical contexts. By creating such a scene, Abigail hopes to strengthen her position of authority within the community and maintain control over the unfolding events.
Whether Abigail is successful in her endeavors or not is subject to the interpretation of the narrative's outcome. If her actions result in increased power and decreased scrutiny, she succeeds. However, if her deceptions are recognized and result in her own downfall, then she does not. The text provided does not clearly state the outcome of Abigail's accusation, therefore, to determine her success, one would need to refer to the overarching storyline and the consequences of her actions within that narrative.