What news does Rev. Parris give in Act 4?

In Act 4 of "The Crucible," Rev. Parris informs the townsfolk that Abigail Williams and Mercy Lewis have fled Salem. This revelation is significant because it highlights the chaos and breakdown of order in the community. Abigail, a pivotal character whose actions catalyzed the witch trials, escaping indicates her acknowledgment of the impending consequences of her deceit and manipulation.

This flight signals to the audience that the hysteria surrounding the trials is collapsing. The absence of Abigail, who previously had significant influence over the events and people of Salem, creates a vacuum, raising questions about the future of the trials and the fate of those still imprisoned. It reveals the desperation that has taken hold of the town and the movement away from the frenzy of accusations, which had played such a central role throughout the play.