How about the "skeptics" that were there at the time? Are their words of no present value? If so, then there is no use in reading the writings of any historians because what they experienced in their day, even if they had no prior intent to say those things, has no value for those today who would simply refuse to give them any credibility. In fact, there could never be any court trial with witnesses, because what they saw and heard, etc., at the time in question would have no value for the jury, whose desire to believe even what happens before their own eyes is non-existent by way of their "skepticism."
A journalist could say, allegedly, but if he uses other words based on the universal testimony of contemporary witnesses, should he be fired from his job? Does relating what the historical record presents amount to some kind of ethical violation or something? Or does the possibility that someone's sensibility or feelings might be offended by objective language demand words that even an ideological opponent would approve?
If you want to believe that "mass hysteria" can effect the drying of ankle-deep mud under the feet of 70,000 people and the cleaning of their clothes in a few brief moments, it's your decision. That's your privilege as a person with free will.
I would ask you, however, if you know of any similar events, even say, 10 people making their clothes clean and dry while standing in the mud that dries too, by engaging in "mass hysteria"? What exactly do you mean, by the way, by mass hysteria? Is it like a football game or the Rose Parade? What game or parade ever ended with the rained-on crowd all dry and clean?
I hope you're not overwhelmed with the volume of my words. You might not want to discuss this. I'm not trying to stir up anxiety or inflict gratuitous offense. It simply seems so clear to me that I would be ill at ease not to attempt to make some kind of explanation. It is most certainly not a personal issue with me, but I would warn you that it IS a personal issue between you and God. So beware. I would be remiss not to say this. I understand that you are not alone. Even priests, bishops and cardinals whom I know have sentiments akin to yours, and I fear for their eternal damnation. I am telling you this in hopes you may one day have a change of heart, but if you refuse to discuss this and seek the truth, all I can do is pray for you.