Sth = (At
STATE OF NEW YORK:
No. 185.
IN ASSEMBLY, MAR. 26, 1859,
(fer IB5T- 5a)
Thirteenth and Fourteenth Report of the Prison Association
of New York, including a list of the Officers and Members.
New Yon, March 25,1859.
Hon. Dewrrr C. Lrrriesoun, .
Speaker of the Assembly of the State of New York:
The New York Prison Association, in compliance with its
charter, herewith transmits a report of its labors for the years
1857 and 1858, with the request that you will present the same
to the Legislature.
‘Very-respectfully,
JOHN H. GRISCOM,
Chairman of Executive Committee.
[Assombly, No. 186.]
OFFICERS OF THE PRISON ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK
FOR 1857-8.
Parsrrere.
Hon, JAMES if, TITUS.
‘Vier-Pamnvent,
RN. HAVENG, ‘fon. PRANCIS R.-7TLLOU,
ISRAEL RUSSELL, | soli etisco,
Corresponding Steretory.
JOHN STANTON GOULD.
Recording Seeretors
JAMES C. HOLDEN.
MENDY A, OAKLEY,
Bescutive Committer,
Chairman, JOHN H. GRISCOM, BM. D.
"Fiance Committee
WM. ¢, GIA, chatroan, | JOSEPH ¥. 301
,
HENay a. cauvey, HAMS es sha, Mv.
HENRY &. sts honor
ona A. BRYAN.
tention Committoe.
ISRARE RUSSELL, chairman, SOLOMON JENNER,
SOHN Hi. KEYSER, sUILER,
GHARLES A. DAVISON, Siti WALES,
GuORGE BAER, ‘Abas 1. SACKurh,
OmIs D. SWAN:
Discharged Concict Committee.
EIREAEE BREE Cinmee, "On au
STEPHEN COTEER, Dysta comp,
Isaac T. SMUT, Wat, HEGEMAN.
Prison Discipline Committee.
B. N. HAVENS: Chairmen, SOHN D. BUSS, M. Da
Hoos FHANGLS hy MILL? ‘Tako, TRLLCAMPY, Ht. D.,
Hop GHAMLES A Mabobr, Hon, GEORGE HALL,
DEGKH Y. CUTLER, JOH H, GNISCOM, a. D.,
sOuN A. BRYAN, BAMIMI, 0, HOLDEN.
ABRAWAM BEAL, Genero! Agent.
RICHARD WAKE, Fnoncial Agea!.
HONORARY MEMBERS.
OSCAR Ty King of Sweden and Noeway.
‘Hon, JOHN DUER, New York.
‘Hon. D. ¥. BUTLER, Now York
‘Mon, JOHN W. EDMONDS, New York
‘ABRAHAM VAN NEST, Bog, Now ork.
+ Dressed.
Saas
a
[Assemany
CORRESPONDING MEMBERS,
A. DE TOCOUEVIEZE,
@: De Beaton,
3 OWL Litoas,
1A DEMETZ, Meutre du Conseil General da Department de
MC G. BLOUBE, Architect da Voavernomeat.
43. G, PERRY, Bog. Inspector of Prisons of Great Beta.
‘COL. JEBL, Surveyor General of the Putoas and Diztetar ef Uo Conviet Prisons of zest
‘Britain,
EDWIN CHADWICK, Esq. Lond
Dr. VERDEIL, Mombor ofthe Great Conntl, Viee-President of the Coun of esl
Tassanno, Switzoland.
Pe GOS8H, Gente and
‘IACOD POST, Begs
Shay, ZA DWIOHN, Sctay of Pron Dice Soety, Baton
FRANOIS LIEBER, Profesor of History and Political Philtophy, Colambia, 8. C2, Cur
‘Memb, of the Iattate of Pras,
WM, P. FOULIEE, Hay., Philadephia
M, MOREAU CHRISTOPHE, Chevaller ofthe Legion of Honor, Franc
Dr. VARRENTHRAP, Germany.
B. d, HOWE, Mf. D., Boston.
Mies D. 1a DEX, Boston, Maceashussts.
‘Profuwor NATHAN DAVID, Copeabageo, Denmark
Hon, CHARLES SUNNRR, Boston.
Prof, IL. TELEKAMPY, Gerla, Pras.
JOHN HAVILAND, Prison Avebiteet,Phlladelphia,
GEORGE SUMNER, Her., Bouton
1. B.—The Physician or Wanten, or Keopar of eath Penitentiary rey ee aficio, Cre
pooding Members of the Ixeostive Committe
Messer of the Tntiation of Brase, "
Oise tes Pa
HONORARY LIFE MEMBERS OF THE EXECUTIVE COM
MITTEE.
BY PAYMENT OF ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS AND UPWARDS.
City of Now York.
‘ Pesker, Charts,
py St,
V3h = 14th report:
* 357-58
troy .
‘Rey. Wan Andrews, or. Dr. Beman,
Poustheeptie, 8. Y.
Rev. Hl. G. Ladiow
Huon, W. ¥.
or. Mr. Dasling.
Meriden, Conn.
er. Ge W. Peskine,
LIFE MEMBERS OF THE ASSOCIATION.
DY PAYMENT OF TWENTY-FIVE DOLLARS AND UPWARDS.
Alp, J. Was DH ord, Raf
Sai Wi. Belay “T
Belmoni, Angus,
Bennet Janea
Eeoson, BL
Storges, Jecathnn,
sStoyrenanty Geet
¥
fowland, Higa M., ‘Wood, Witasn
6 [Assenony No. 185.]
fan Daser, ABs Weare mea | Pegahhaesien a. i
Ya Ret abe Whteey, 8 ery Bt 5
Sater Herkimer
etry cone.
Wosigy 2 Hoy Mes bite,
Waa 4
Wests, agent. Brooker, bof Moriden, Conn.
‘ay By este tan eve sare.
White i,
Bichon Tevite esses
LIST OF CONTRIBUTIONS AND DONATIONS
"To the New York Prison Association for the years 1857 and 1858,
1857.
Witian 0. Cempbetl-
Revert J. Dillon =
erstrrtrrrtd
8, Skog case
Vivingetaa
Tanee Huer,
‘otal cntebutions and donations fa cae for 1857 orncsnsnseessesssinsorengee $M 30
Hetone of ng fom Bu Beare, Oy ged, We Auto, 5.0 Weldens
ofsiationery ad books, Howse # Go Clayton's Sona
1858,
ce sessss $90 00 | Goo, Opighn ease gece nase
paies! 2 8 | ake, eee
ieee. Magan Geant
ooh ¢
a sibs
Sass Bree =
we
sgesessessesessseess:
mig tiie
Wa ane Batier:
te a
Ecol Wile
Monit Bois
Tein Sangis 2
‘Total of comtsibutna
for 1858
REPORT.
"othe Honorable the Legislature of the State of New York:
‘The Prison Association of New York presonts the following as
its report for the years 1857 and 1858:
This association was incorporated by a special act of the
Legislature, on the 9th of May, 1846. Its reports, from time to
tine, have fully declared its objects and plan of operations, with
their results; they comprise several volumes which will be found’
in the State Library, and to which we beg leave most respectfully
to refer. It will be found, on consulting them, that the subject of
crime, and the means of its prevention—of criminals and the
influences to be employed for their reformation—of prison discip.
Jine and the improvements to be made therein, have all been
fully discussed, and the arguments, pro and con, clearly set forth.
But little can bo added that is now, and it may be safely afiirmed,
that those reports contain all that need be said to convince your
honorable body and the public, of the benefits which our organi-
ration has conferred on the State and the community at large, in
the past, and of the usofalness, in the same channol, which it pro-
tises to continue to exert in the future.
The necessities which originated the Prison Association, and
which induced the Legislature to give to it such a liberal charter,
have not yet ceased to exist.
‘Tho theories on which its plans of oporations have boon basod
ftom the outsét, are still believed to be sound, and if faith-
filly carried out, that they must stand approved by the great
juss of reflecting men.
Tt cannot bo justly charged against this association that it has
tocn actuated in its efforts by a misplaced or morbid sympathy,
fo the criminal, for it has resolutely adhered to the scriptural
Proverb that “the way of transgrescors is hard,” and has sternly
fcknowledged that this should be 80; yet, while looking in
tis direction with a face of flint, it has stoadily borne in mind the
tea upon which all modern legislation has proceeded with rofer-
008 to crimes, viz: that the great object should be to prevent
10 [Asseamer
their commission and reform the criminals, and not to deal with
thera in a spirit of vindictiveness.
‘To those who may not be familiar with our plans, and who, for
that reason, may not be prepared to acknowledge the utility of
such an organization, we desire to submit some of the most pro
minont evils which exist, and the remedies which have been and
are still sought to be applied to their correction.
Lit. Detentions of alleged criminals.
It will be readily conceded that some are improperly charged;
that some, while innocent, are in danger of being condemned by
false or vindictive witnesses, through inadvertance, or for want of
the aid of honest lawyers; that some are stripped of all they
possess by “ shystors,” without receiving any beneficial sorvices
jn return; and that some by roason of circumstances difficalt to
be explained at the time of conviction, are made to suffer punish
ments which might be properly mitigated, if the matters in
oxtenuation were reliably brought to the notice of the court, but
which, owing to the fears, confusion, or friondless situation of the
accused, cannot be furnished without timely aid, volunteered
on the spot.
2a. Prison discipline.
It is well known, that in some detention prisons at least, (but it
would be safe to sey in nearly all of them,) it is quite common to
confine prisoners under accusation and before conviction, although
innocent, in the same quarters, and under the same restraints, and
int the same cells, with those justly convicted; that witnesses are
confined there for the want of bail, and are thus subjected to
restraints and contaminating influences, which it is impossible, by
any species of argument, to justify; that proper regard to clear
Jiness and the general sanitary condition of the inmates of the
detention prisons is often omitted, and that the innocent, tbe
guilty, and the witnesses, are, in most cases alike subject to this
neglect, and that in the prisons for the confinement of prisoners
under sentence, there is no suitable classification of them. Adopie
in every species of infamous crimes, and hardened criminals, suck
as professional thieves, burglars and pickpockets, being confined
and brought in close contact with first offenders, and conviets for
minor offenses, such as assaults and batteries, and other misd>
meanors, and that in some cases cruel and unusual punishmen
are inflicted by drunken, ignorant, passionate, unprincipled ot
brutal keepers,
DS-58
F wo. 185.] uw
3d. Discharged Conuicts.
Tt will not be denied that some of this class would reform, if
properly encouraged, especially those whose crimes may be traced
to intemperate habits, want, suffering, prejudice or passion; that
jn most cases, this class come from the prisons, on tho expiration
of their terms of sentence, branded as infamous, and cut off from
the confidence and sympathy of the community, and that in some
cases, even the most wicked and apparently incorrigible criminals,
when discharged, might be reclaimed.
We might extend this catalogue of evils and illustrate their
enormity by a variety of cases coming under our immediate
observation, but the limits within which we feel it our duty to
bring this report, will only allow the mention of the most glaring,
and those which have boon made familiar to your honorable body
in our provious reports, and to the public through the press. ‘The
‘ls we have above enumerated are.so confessedly notorious that
it would be difficult to find any one who would venture to deny
their existence.
During the thirteen years of our offorts in this interesting field
of labor, it is confidently believed that the association has accom-
plished more good and conferred more lasting benefits on society,
WInw A Luss AMouNr oF vEceNrARY Ato, than any other benevolent
institution, to whose funds the publie had been called upon to
Jcotribute. ‘The statistics and information contained in our pré
vious reports, will, we feel assured, abundantly sustain this
declaration. Our visits to all the different prisons in the State,
fom year to year, our correspondence with kindred associations
in other States, and foreign governments in Burope and elsewhere,
and our exposures of abuses and recommendations of reforme,
eve beon instrumental in leading your honorable body to make
any changes for the bettor in the discipline of its prisons. But
nich more remains to be done, and we entertain the hope that, by
patient and persistent efforts, we will be able to say on some
future occasion, that the reform which our charter contemplated,
io this behalf, has boon woll nigh accomplished. We will then
ilingly confine our labors to “detained prisoners” and * die
charged convicts,” who have already been the chief objects of
cor solicitude, and the reliof and reformation of whom afford such,
19 important subject for philanthropic effort.
‘The New York Prison Association presents the following sum-
mary of its labors during the yoars 1857-8:
ee
ean |
+]
‘Gomplant dscontinnn
Tambor of sch
bra
ae | 7a
[eae [ieee [a
tute any comparison belween the very small totals of contribs:
tions and the amount of work done, for this is the most promi-
nent featnre displayed in tho tables.
‘The managers themselves propose to defray all the expenses for
salaries of agents and employees, for office rent, fel, lights, sta
tionory, &¢., and they appeal to the humane and benevolent solely
for such contributions as may be necessary to render more efficient
the work of reforming, restoring and elevating the condition of
detained prisoners and discharged convicts. ;
‘These appeals have not been adequately answered, there being
a reluctance to extend rolief to this elass of persons, when there
are so many unfortunate persons who are believed to be more
aoserving, and in whose bobalf urgent appeals are constantly boing
made. Our means, for several years past, have been altogether
insufficient for the purposes last named, and in view of the facts
jae-5F
0, 185.] 13
* above stated, we feel that we should not hesitate earnestly to
solicit an appropriation from the State treasury, for relief of these
miserable beings. As a matter of economy, the State would do
vell, we think, to aid any woll directed efforts to reform the crim.
inal, and prevent his again becoming a charge upon the prison
fund. Thus far we have uever received a dollar, except by vol
untary contribution, and the falling off of the funds from this
souree, is not to be attributed to any want of appreciation of the
usefulness of this association, but rather to the needs of other
rities, whose claims are more strongly urged, and which aro
lwlioved, very properly, perhaps, to be more meritorious.
In this connection we call the attention to your honorable body
to the reports of a portion of the many tases which wo have passed
yon, and relieved since our last report, and which we transcribe
and submit herewith, ‘The unfortunates and outcasts require
romething more than “good advice,” and we beg that an appro-
priation, be it much or little, may be made for their relief.
We should not fail to mention, before closing this communios
tion, that our general agent, Mr. Abrabain Beal, who has been so
long connected with us in that relation, still continues his self.
‘erificing and arduous labors. He is eminently, and in a very pecu-
liar degree, fitted for the performance of the work in which we
sre engaged. His experiences have been so varied and extensive,
and his integrity, efficiency and reliability so perfect, that what
was once difficult of performance by this association, has been,
through him, rendered comparatively easy. He has the unro-
‘served confidence of the courts, district attorneys and magistrates,
and to an extent which demonstrates his trustworthiness and influ.
nee for good, more completely than anything we could say in
commendation of his services, With any other than suck an agent
‘carry out our plan of operations, we believe we could never
lave sustained our organization, upon the slender amounts which
ave been contributed, nor could we without his aid, have accom:
Hished, under such circumstances, one-half the good which, for
jeveral years past, his diaries have exhibited.
We have had our attention called to a bill now pending before
pour honorable body, revising and amending the laws relating to
te management and discipline of the State Prisons, which, by
aplication, we fear will dostroy some of the most vital and salu-
sry provisions of our charter, and we beg leave most respectfully
9 submit to-your honorable body that care should be taken to in-
tert a clause in that act, if it shall pass, exempting this associa-
1“ [Assramer
tion from the operation of the repealing clause therein contain,
Since our last report wo have applied to a justice of the Sx.
preme Court, in the city of New York, as we had theretofore beon
accustomed to do, for an ordor permitting this association to visit
the several prisons in this State, as contemplated in the charier,
and such order was not granted, because sach justice entertained
the opinion that he did not possess the power to grant it; and
this association has not felt that it would be propor to apply to
another judicial officer for such an order in the face of this dc
‘This ie our explanation of the omission to inolnde in this
roport the customary statistics and information with respect to
such prisons ; and we would most respectfully ask your honorable
body more explicitly to define in our charter the duties of tle
judges in this behalf, or to grant to this association the power to
‘Visit without an order from a judgo. The removal of all restric:
tions could be very readily restored should this association abuse
its powers of visilation, of which abuse there have, thus far,
nover been any complaints, and it will studiously avoid any ju
cause of complaint should this mark of confidence be extended to
it by your honorable body.
All which is respectfully submitted.
Dated New York, January, 1859.
By order of the Executive Committee.
JAMES H. TITUS,
President of the Association,
JOHN H. GRISCOM,
Chairman of Executive Committee.
‘Jans C. Hounen, Recording Secretary.
TREASURER’S REPORT.
1857. Receipts.
‘To balance on hand January 1, 1859, .
cash received, donations, as per list
‘cash received, subscriptions and contributions, during
1857,
money returned by convicts to whom it bad been
advanced,
‘Total receipts for 1857,
S5-
No. 185.] ct
Expenditures.
By rent of office, No. 15 Centre St., in part,
expenses of office, fuel, postages, &o., &c.,
donations to discharged conviets in money,
salary of A. Beal, agent, balance of 1856,
$254.17, and on account for 1857,
$738.09,
commission on collections, and salary of
fant agent in 1857. + 200 46
——— 81,649 88
$18 17
$150 00
97 00
230 16
972 26
Balance on hand Deo, 81, 1857, -.
1858, Receipts.
‘To balance on hand Jan. 1, 1858, .
donations received in 1858, a8 per list,
subseriptions and contributions, received in 1858, -
money returned by convicts to whom it had been
advanced,
$78.17
462 68
853 00
8 50
‘Total receipts in 1858, ++ $1,399 35
Expenditures.
By balanco of rent of office, No. 15 Centro
street, for 1857,..
by amount of rent of offices No, 15 Centre
streot, for 1858, .
exponses of office, fuel, postages, &e., &e.,
commission paid on collections, and salary
of sub-agont,..
donations in money to discharged convicts,
Abram Beal, agent, balance of salary for
1851, - 261 91
Abram Beal, agent, on account of salary
for 1858, . 440 24
—— 81,385 07
$50 00
100 00
107 00
200 24
225 68
Balance in treasurer’s hands Dec. 31,1858, .... $14 28
HENRY A. OAKLEY, Treasurer.
[Assexmiy
Orrice or Pnisow Assocration,
15 Gnvin at, New Your, Jon. 74858. |
To the Committee on Detentions, Isnatt, Russet, Esq., Chairman:
Dear Sir—In Gomplianee with our uniform practice, the f
lowing brief report of our labors in this department during the
past two years, ending December the 31st, 1858, is respectfully
submitted to you for presentation to the executive board.
Your agent has, agrocably to your instructions, and in conform
ity with your charter and by-laws, visited, and as often as his
varied and constantly increasing engagements would permit, each
of the detention prisons of this city, and those of Brooklyn,
Duresrions,
‘This department includes all those who are arrested and detained
for trial, or as witnesses in the prisons of New York and Brook
lyn cities, to wit:
First district, city prison, (Tombs).
Second district, Jofforson Market prison.
‘Third district, Rssex Market prison,
Fourth district, Yorkville prison,
Eldridge streot, (or county jail).
Kings county, or Brooklyn jail.
‘The magnitude of this work can be best conceived, from a sin
gle statement of the number of those who have been there, charged
with crime, and a very large proportion of whom we have visited
During the past two years, there were:
Committed to Kings county jail, .
do to city prisons, New York, ..
‘Totals, .. 41a
Hence it will be seen at one glance, either that crime has fear
fully increased within the above named period, or that more eff
cient means have been adopted for its detection and punishment.
‘The following figures show most conclusively, that deleterious
or poisoned drugs, called distilled and fermented liquors, (sold in
those two cities, in violation of all law, by upwards of ten thow
sand unlicensed retail dealers, and by less than two hundred per
sons who had obtained licenses,) were the sole and direct caus?
of [ths of all those commitments.
67-53
No. 185.]
Ke 1897.
4,028 4,972
23,817 30,200
35,172
of temperate habits,
Of intemperate habits, -
‘Totals, 27,845
If “figures do not lie;” if “facts are stubborn things” if bad
liquor is the prolife source of pauperism, crime, ruin and death,
then ought not our excise laws to be enforeed? If our deten-
‘ion prisons, all our penitentiaries, and our state prisons, are at
this moment, inconveniently crowded, and much more crowded
than ever from the use of those poisons, would it not be moro rea-
sonable and economical, and the most effectual preventive of crime,
toforbid entirely their sale at groceries, and everywhere, to young
persons?
On this all important subject of the cause of crime, your agent
would beg leave to say, that after: many years of extensive obser,
vation with prisoners, and of prison life, and of: the multiplied\4.
paths which lead to disgrace and punishment, he knows of no |’
habits, vices or indulgences, so detrimental to the body, mind and
soul, and producing so large an amount of physical, mental and
oral ruin, fo the masses, as the use of alcholic drinks.
Here a train of thought is suggested to which we cannot give
utterance. Ub! what misery we have witnessed from this cause
alone, Oh! that the Executive and Legislature of our State, and
the municipal governments of our large cities would but let the
axe strike at the root of this enormous evil, that the laws already in
existence were scrupulously and efficiently enforced, and that those
drinking places and their abominations could be swept away by
one mighty stroke. Oh! that the great God of Heaven would
show His mercy to the mass, by pointing ont to those in autho-
rity what their duty is in this matter; then what @ rooral revolu-
tion would be offected, and in how short a timo.
There are other sources of vice and crime, but most of these
have arisen, and are sustained, by strong drink and its dupes,
viz: gambling, dance houses, low theatres, balls, wakes, brothels,
hhio hours, extravaganes, poverty, ignorance, want of employment,
and lack of home comforts and attractions ; butaboveall, the want
of light, and knowledge, and moral instruction, and training, also,
contribute, in a great measure, to swell the volume of crime.
Tho following figures, abstracted from the summary of the gen-
eral operations of the association, show what has been accom-
plished in this department within the past two years:
[Aseombly, No. 185.] 2
No at wanes wea
nour sity i
‘ou an debate
way lest
_reoudioe bud pecson
‘oounendetion,
‘A large proportion of the cases referred to in the third aud
fourth columns, consisted of arrests caused by family distarban-
cos, by tho ill-usage of wives by their husbands, and the abandow-
who, thus thrown upon the
In such cases, the associs.
ment of children by their parents,
world, have committed petty crimes.
tion has been instrumental in reconciling the parties to each other;
a better way of life has been shown them; many happy results
havo followed, and peace and happiness, in many a broken family
circle, have been restored. Hence the city and State have saved
large sums which would have been expended on these very por
sons as criminals or paupers.
Special attention has been given to young persons whom we
have found in prison. Some have transgressed by accident}
others have been driven to it by want, consequent on being or
phans, or by reason of their not being cared for, or without homes
or friends, or where the parents are grossly immoral. In such
casos we have placed them in better circumstances, away from
trials and temptation, and always where their future interests
will be secured. Others we have boon enabled by the favorable
disposition of the courts, to restore to their friends, on the promise
of a more watchful care over them.
Many of this class call upon us with their parents and friends,
expressing their thanks for what was done for them, and promising
to walk circumspectly for the future.
In all our visits we carefully look after the innocent (and such
54-57
Yo, 185.) 19
ae to be found) wh6 are charged with orime, the inexperienced
in prison life, the penitent, and especially those who manifest a
desire to make restitution, or for the first offense, where there is
no aggravation, and especially where circumstances of extenuation
are apparent, In all euch casea the facts are honestly submitted
fo the proper authorities, and the accused and the ends of justice
are more or less advantaged. And in no solitary ease have we
lent ourselves directly or indirectly to assist an old offender or
professional thief, that he might escape tho punishment due to his
transgressions. On the contrary, we have invariably contributed
our aid in securing to them their deserts. With all such wehave
w complicity whatever.
A.word in relation to our detention prisons.
‘THE ciry PRisos (on ToMns).
Nearly all the persons committed foF trial in the city of New
York aro collected here.
‘That the prison is too small is very, evident, as it often be-
comes necessary to place three persons in one emall cell. ‘This
practice, although unavoidable, (from the limited dimensions of
le building), is productive of sorios mischief. It is bad enough
o keep persons confined for wecks or months in a state of idle-
ness, but it becomes really serious to place two, three or four to-
gether, as evil communications have always proved permanently
hurtful.
The warden still peremptorily forbids the admission of lawyers
into the inner prison in their professional capacity ; and, although
some improvement has heen made in carrying out this rule, many
flagrant impositions have boen practiced, and by a class of un-
principled men who disgrace the honorable profession of the law.
It is indeed to be deplored that there are creatures who enga,
to defend men on their trial, who extort from them every doll
Which they or their families can collect or scrape together, and | ¥
then abandon them to their fate. Such characters ought them-
selves be sent to prison, and kept at hard labor, instead of those
who are go frequently the dupes and sufferers by their evil prac-
tices, and who would in many cases be acquitted wero it not for
the bad advice of theso unscrupulous leeches.
JRFEERSOY MARKET PRISON,
‘This prison has beon enlarged, and greater accommodations se
cured, Although much improved, it is very questionable oven
tow whether it would not have been more practicable to have
20 [Assrmr
removed the old building and erected an entirely new ono, having
a greater regard to more space and better light and ventilation,
ESSEX MARKET PRISON.
‘This is a new building on the old site. It is commodious, light
and roplote with conveniences. The police court, offices and keop-
er’s dwelling house are altogether unobjectionable, and nicely
adapted to this densely populated locality.
YORRYALLE BISON.
Here all is neat and clean, and though small, its eapacity is
pretty well proportioned to its business.
‘These four prisons are under the supervision of the alms house
governor, and are under the immediate superintendenco of the
warden of the Tombs, Mr. Sutton.
‘The average number of its inmates is about forty, such as al-
leged fraudulent debtors, U. S. prisoners, witnesses, &c. ‘The
supervisors have had in contemplation the building of @ new
prison, ‘They doubtless feel that it is unfit for a county jail, and
it has long been condemned by an intelligent community.
waxes county (BROOKLYN) sant.
In days gone by we bave often had to complain that persons
accused of crime wore kept awaiting trial for two, three, and
sometimes four months, in this prison, and that individuals and
families have deen seriously injured by these delays in the admin-
istration of justice. We are glad to report that there is a better
state of things here now. ‘The demands of equity and right are
conceded, and the guilt or innocence of its inmates are more
promptly ascertained. Itis much to be regretted that this priso
like the Tombs of New York, is not furnished with sufficient calls
It is by far too small, and the keepers have no alternative but to
place (and that very often) three and sometimes four in a cell.
"he health of the inmates of our city prisons, taken asa whole,
is generally good. ‘Their classification, however, is not carefully
regarded. But little or no voncern is manifested for their moral
improvement. Whilst one physician is appointed to look to the
health of the bodies of the prisoners in the Tombs, and one also
for the Brooklyn jail, there is no moral teacher or minister ap
pointed or engaged to regard their spiritual condition. It would
be well, we think, to have a chaplain appointed for each of those
prisons, but more especially for the prison called the Tombs
VSS]. 68
No. 185.] ‘a =
‘What has been said‘béfore in our annual reports in relation to our
city or detention prisons, may with propriety be reiterated again
and again, that but few, very few, means are employed for the
noral elevation of their inmates—but few things exist in any one
‘of these prisons calculated to lesson erime or promote reformation.
Your agent is not without hope that a better day will dawn,
‘when those having charge of our prisons will insist on having a
septrate cell for every prisoner, that cell to be provided withsoap,
towel and wash bowl, and every facility for oleanliness, the same
to be furnished with a bible and other good and useful books, and,
wben moral teachers shall be engaged, to improve the better na-
tures of those confined within its walls. With such valuable
auxiliaries, the virtous and intelligent in the community might
reasonably anticipate a permanent diminution of vice and crime.
May that time be hastened!
‘We append hereto a number of casos sclected from the diary of
ar agent, merely to show the character of our work and the
objects of our anxious colicitude, with the results.
EXTRACTS FROM DIARY OF DE}
No.1. A German woman was indidted for grand larceny, for
stealing a bank book, valued by complainant at $40. When
bronght into court, the association, by its agent, informed the
judge that he had made diligent enquiries of her past history and
antecedents. ‘These'are tho facta:
About seven months since, she arrived in New York, from Ham-
burg, having $600 in her possession; she expected to find a por-
ion of her family here, but they had gone west, sho knew not
where.
At the boarding house where she stayed, a young man -also
lived, who formerly resided in a neighboring town, in Germany,
near to that she had so recently left. An intimacy grew up
Vetween them, and they married; he proposed they should start
‘west, find their friends, and then with her $600, and the money he
expected to receive from his parents, they should buy a farm, live
happy, and become rich, ‘To this she heartily assented, handing
him over all hor money. Within a few hours, this unprincipled
scoundrel disappeared, and left for parts unknown. She was left
with her few clothes only, without the means to pay even one
day’s board. A situation was suggested by the woman with whom,
she had stayed since her arrival; she accepted it, but found it to
be a house of bad repute. ‘Ske determined instantly to leave,
22 [Assen
and return to her fatherland. She saw this bank book, and was
tempted to take it, concluding could she draw out the $40, it
would defray her expenses home. The theft was discovered, and
the plans sho had laid were frustrated, and she expressed great
contrition. On recommendation of the agent, a plea of potit lar.
cony was accepted by tho district attorney, when the judgment
was snspended, and she was discharged. A situation was subse.
quently obtained for hor.
No. 2. Was remanded last court day hy the recorder, that the
associntion might onquiro into his past character. To-day wo
reported favorably—that he bad never been in prison before ; he
solemnly promised never to do wrong again. Having a large
family, the Association recommended bis discharge. Judgment
was suspended,
No. 3. Was committed for assault and battery, on complaint of
his wifo; the judge sentenced him four months to the penitentiary.
‘Tho Association begged the court not to send him to the Island,
as in that ease the poor woman and her three helpless children
must starve, or go into the workhouse; he was remanded. ‘The
defendant signed the pledge ; he promised to drink no more rum,
and to treat his wife well in the future. ‘These facts were sub-
mitted to the court, when judgment was suspended, and he was
discharged.
No. 4, Was convicted of petit larceny, and sentenced by the city
judge for three months to the penitentiary. ‘The complainant,
believing this to have been his first offense, conferred with the
Association, expressing a desire that mercy should be shown him,
and, especially, as the prisoner had acted with great candor, and
had exhibited symptoms of deep sorrow. ‘This statemont was
made to the court, when he was again brought out, admonished
and discharged.
Ho called at the office of the Association, offering thom his thanks
for saving him from a winter's quarters in the penitentiary.
‘No. 5. Was indicted for forgory in the second degree, that he
had attempted to pass a $5 counterfeit bill, knowing it to be such.
There were many extraordinary circumstances surrounding this,
case, When arrested, $76 in good money was taken from him by
the officor. A counsel was employed ; his foo was to be $50. ‘The
district attorney was seen by the agent of the Association in this
case, and all the circumstances submitted to him. When arraigned,
ho plead guilty to forgery in the 4th degree. ‘The court regarded
the case as one eminently entitled to favorable consideration.
\st-54
No. 185.] 23
Jndgment, was suspended, and he was discharged: An applica-
tion was then made to the counsel for the return of the $26, over
‘and above tho $50, the fee agreed upon, but this was refused.
‘The Association applied for the balance, but the counse] contended
he ought not-to be walled upon to return it; he was at length
induced to return a sum sufficient to defray the traveling expen-
ses of this young man and his sister back to their home in the
country.
‘They subsequently called to thank the Association for the inter-
est shown hy itin his behalf whilst in prison, and since his release
therefrom, "
No. 6. An honest looking youth was convicted of grand larceny ;
his heart appeared to be well nigh broken. ‘The Association beg-
ged the court: to suspend the judgment, believing, if discharged,
under the influence of his present feeling, he would involuntarily
shudder, and refuse tode another bad act. He was then discharged.
No. 7. A poor, wretched woman was seen by the agent of the
Association, weeping in the Tombs, from whom he ascertained, that
ior husband had been confined the last nine days for disorderly
conduct, and in default of $300 bail. ‘That she has five children
now in want; the offense was trifling, as shown by the papers;
the police magistrate was seon, and the man’s discharge obtained.
No. 8, Was charged with an attempt at petit Iarcony. A parse
containing $4 had been given to an infant child to play with, and
to quiet it. This youth saw it laying on the floor of the room,
and being very bungry, picked it up and put it into his pocket,
At the timo he was seen in a stooping position, and suspected of
having the missing purse; he denied it; it was found upon him.
‘The Association ascertained that he came to this country on board
aship, five weeks since; he had worked his passage out. Tho
Association begged the court,under all the circumstances, to give
him another trial or chance of doing bettor; the court acquiesced.
Wo provided him a good supply of clothes, and then introduced
him to those who found him a place on board a ship. ‘This inter-
esting boy appeared to fool vory grateful for what had been done
for him,
No. 9. A poor woman comos to our office, praying the Associa-
tion to get her husband discharged from prison, on charge of breach
of the peace. She has four childron in want; after ascertaining
this to be the truth, his discharge was obtained.
No. 10 was convicted of petit larceny. He had beon in this
country but two weeks. When arrested he had the article in his
4 [Assexciay,
Possession, He frankly acknowledged his guilt, but said, “Twas
very hungry at the time; I asked several to help me, but all 30.
fased. I could find nothing to do.” ‘The court sentenced hin
‘the penitentiary for threo month:
‘The Association intimated that it would not lessen the difi.
eulty; he would be ins much worse position then than now. If
the court would be pleased to suspend the judgment, a place
work could be found him. Ho promised to avoid a repetition of
‘such an act. He was discharged.
‘We supplied him with few necessary garments, and obtained
a place of work for him immediately. He has since done well
No. 11 was convicted of stealing @ piece of ham. The Asso-
ciation had visited her in prieon, and subscquently ascertained
her story to be truthful—that at the time of this petit theft her
elf and two children wore in great want. ‘Tho truth was told
the court, and her discharge recommended. She left the court
room with her children, very grateful for the merey shown to her,
and with a determined purpose to suiler rather than be found in
such a pleco aga. Her pressing wants wore for several wosks
supplied by the Associatio
No. 12 was charged with stealing articles valued at §6 from her
employer. She denied the charge. The only evidence against
‘her was that a few buttons were found on the floor near whore
the missing things had been kept. She was remanded. To-day
the Association assured the court that her character previous to
this allegation was above reproach. Her discharge was recom
mended and obtained.
‘No. 13 was convicted of an assault and battery, on complaint
‘of his wife, and sentenced hy the court to the penitentiary for
four months, Atrequest of the Association he was remanded until
next court day, and the sentence withheld.
‘To-day we showed, by two reliable men, for whom defendant had
worked the last twenty-five years, that he is a sober, honest, in
dustrious man, always providing a good home for his family. One
‘of the witnesses testified that his children were pretty well grown
up; one of them, the youngor, aged sixtoon, isa self-willed, obst
nate girl; that she kept Inte hours, and entertained her young
friends at their house es Iete as two, three, and often to four
o'clock. ‘The mother is indulgent, whilst the father apprebends
some evil will result from such indulgences; hence he determines
to provent it. ‘These and other causes have created this difficulty.
387-58
No. 186.] 5
E Tio was shown to be a'good citizen. ‘The Aasociation then begged
bis discharge. The court acquiesced,
No. 14. The District Attorney of tho U. 8. Court’ was soen ih
belulf of two seamen detained as witnesses for the prosecution,
and against the mate of ship, who stands charged with murder.
These two men have been in the Tombs nearly scven months.
O10 of these is a married man, who states he has not been able
to send his family any money since he was locked up.
‘Tho Marshal and District Attorney will do all they can to
facilitate the trial,
No. 16. Aged 12 years, was discharged from custody on charge
of stealing a veil.
Her fears were so powerfully wrought upon, it was deemed
prudent to have her discharged. The probabilities are, she will
never forget this circumstance.
No. 16. Was brought before the Recorder on charge of assaiilt
and battery, on complaint of his wife
‘The ‘Association saw him in prison, end found him under the
influonce of shame, regret, and a solemn purpose to avoid the
causes which led to this gross and inexcusable offen
Judgment was suspended and ho was discharged.
No. 17. Was convicted on his own confession of petit larceny
from one of his former employers,
‘The complainant believed he was in want, the result of being
out of work.
On recommendation of Agent, judgmont was suspended and he
was discharged,
No. 18, Was charged with a petit larceny. He stoutly denied
his guilt, although the evidence seemed clear against him. ‘He
assured the court the witnesses wore influenced by prejudice
ogainst him, and without any cause. The Association begged
that he might be remanded, as he represented that witnesses
could be found who could prove him entirely innocent of the
charge. ‘These persons were subpoenaed, and to-day appeared in
court and testified the defendant slept at their house, and’con-
sequently it was impossible for him to have committed the
larceny.
"The Recorder bulioved their statement, and that tho witnesses
for the prosecution had been mistaken in his identity. He was
immodiately discharged.
No. 19. A very honest looking German boy, aged 16, was
arraigned before the Court of ‘Special Sessions, on ‘charge of
26 [Assiacny
stealing $3. He confessed his fault. The Association ascen
tained through an interpreter that. this boy had been in this
country but a few weeks; the friend who brought him had left
for tho far west, leaving him behind, not having the means to
defray bia traveling expenses. He was in great want when he
was tempted to steal this money. He was painfully exercised
about it, and solemnly promised never to take what did uot
Delong to him again. ‘The Association expressed their willingness
to take him and provide him a situation away in the country,
should the court mercifully suspend the judgment and discharge
him. He was instantly discharged.
On the following Tuesday we sent him to a worthy man, a
farmer, whore he is now doing well.
No, 20. Was in prison, awaiting trial on his wife's complaint.
She regretted the step sho had beon advised to take in having
him locked up, because of the sufforing herself and children now
experienced. ‘The Association were instrumental in bringing
about a reconciliation between thom, and a solemn promise that
both should pull one way, the right way, and both together.
‘The Recorder, on recommendation of the Agent, discharged
him. ‘They both expressod their sincere thanks.
No, 21. Was arrested nine months since on charge of burglary.
‘Two months subsequent to his arrest, symptoms of insanity wore
exhibited by him, The Association applied to the Resident
Physician and one of his assistants to examine him. They pro-
nounced him temporarily insane from the use of strong drinks.
‘He was then sent to tho Insane asylum on the Island.
After being there seven months, we ascertained he is now in 4
much better state. A certificate was obtained, when an applice-
rict Attorney was made that he be brought back
to the City prison and disposed of. The complainant was seen;
‘he had no dosire to proscente, as the offense was committed dur
ing the day, in their presonce, aud when under some hallucination
produced by strong drink. 7
All these particulars were submitted to the proper authorities
‘by the Association, when the prisoner was discharged. ;
No. 22. Was charged with assault and battery on his wife
‘The court was about to commit him, when the Association ¢=
prested their belief that the wife, from her appearance, was more i
fault than he. The case was remanded that inquiry might be made.
On the following court day witnesses appeared and conclusively
showed such to be the fact, when he was discharged.
yosq-5F
No. 186.] ‘ aT.
No. 28. Remanded from last court day on charge of stealing
$2 from his employer. ‘The case was satisfactorily proven, but it
vas also shown he had been paid by his “boss” but two or three
shillings per day for his labor; hence he was tempted or driven
to keep back the $2 in question. The Association admonished
him never to be guilty of such an act again; provided him with
sclean shirt, coat, vest and shoes; and, when made decent, the
court discharged him. We soon procured him a placo of work.
No. 24, Had been convicted of assault and battory, and sen.
tenced to the penitentiary for six months.
An application was immediately mado to the Judge to let the
case stand over until next court day. The request waa reluc-
tantly complied with. ‘To-day the Association showed, by satis-
factory tostimony, that this defendant was worthy of his
He was immediately discharged.
No. 25. Indicted for forgery; that he had obtained tho eum of!
$17.50 by foloniously personating a shipmate to whom that sum
‘was due as prize money. :
This unfortunate creature had been in prison vearly four
months, suffering sadly from chronic rheumatism, whilst his wife
and two infant children were literally starving. ‘The complainant
felt more anxious to alleviate their distress than to have him
Punished, saying, “Ho did not do it; Rum did it.”
The District Attorney humanely accepted a plea of forgery in
the fourth degree, and then asked the court to suspend the judg-
ment.
They called at our office the day following his discharge,
expressing their unfeigned thanks for the interest the Association
had shown in their behalf. ‘They both signed a pledge to aban-
don the use of strong drinks.
No. 26. Had been confined in the Tombs over » month, on
charge of grand larceny. Tho Association visited him and felt
intorested in his behalf. His story appeared trathful. He was
believed to be an honest man, and consequently innocent of this
charge. ‘The complainant was seen and spoken to; the moro
thorough our inquiries, the more satisfied were we of his entire
innocen
‘The District Attorney was conferred with; he sont the caso to
the special sessions.
‘When the complainant was asked to take the stand, but two or
three questions were put. Neither ho or the witnesses could say
one word to convict prisoner of the alleged larceny, when. he’ was
28 Astor
instantly ‘acquitted. Ho called again and again to thank the
‘Aasoviation,
No. 24, a smart intelligont little fellow, aged. sixteen, was
‘charged with stealing a small amount of money from his om
ployer. Under our advice he plead guilty, when he was remanded,
‘that inquiry might be made iuto his character and habits.
To-day his mother appeared in court, telling the recorder that
his father is very intemperate, and habitually regardless of his
family, and that under the circumstances the boy was not disci
plined or cared for. ‘The Association suggested the propriety of
sending him to the Juvenile Asyluin, ‘The court cheerfully ao-
gniesced.
No. 28 had been committed of assault and battery on an officer.
The affnir was one of a very diminutive character. ‘The recorder
intimated that he would send him to the city prison for fifteon
days. ‘The Association ascertained that he had a sickly wife and
a family of small children, and if locked up he would lose his work
‘These facts were submitted, and before the adjournment of the
court his honor complied with the earnest request of the Associa.
tion, and then suspended the judgment and discharged him.
No. 29 was convicted of petit larceny, stealing two pice
cloth valued at twelve shillings, intended for boys’ vests.
remanded, that the Association might ascertain something concern:
ing him. Wo found that he has a wife and two children} tho causo
of his present disgrace is the use of liquor; he had delirium on
him when the petty theft was committed; it was his first. offense
‘that was proven. Judgment was suspended and he was discharged.
‘They heartily thanked the Association.
‘No. 80 had been an inmate of Eldridge street jail for the lest
eleven weeks, He was arrested in a civil suit for damagos, aud
in default of bail was locked up. He represented that whilst be
‘was in constant employ, his wife, a professed cook, was also saviug
money. By their united efforts they managed to save one hundred
‘and seventy dollars. With this sum he was advised to take
lager beer saloon. He was introduced by a friend to an agent of
‘a distillery, who offered to supply him with liquors on a very 1
duced scale of prices. He was induced to give him an order.
‘The. goods were to be stored on the premises of the agent until
he was ready to convey them to his own premises.
wsick, and for full seven weeks did nothing. His wi
prevented from attending to her business. This circumstance,
‘with'the idea that the excise laws would be ‘so altered that it
iasy- 58
Yo, 188.] 29.
yould be difficult for him to secure @ Ioense, induced him tovalter:
his mind and abandon bis-intention of taking e saloon. ‘Theagent
applied to him for the paymont of the liquors. He had received
1o portion of them, hence he refused to pay. He was then sued
jor damages, and arrested. He procured bail, after being in jail
ix daya; subsequently the plaintiff excited the fears of
his bail, when he was surrendered, and has been again in prison
the last twelve weeks.
The distiller and agent were seen by the Association, After
eing referred to their counsel, and much precious time devoted
to the case, he consented to discharge him. We then waited on
tho sheriff, who kindly consented to waive his fees, when this poor
man was then discharged. He has frequently called to thank the
Association for procuring his release.
No. 31, an inmate of Hldridge street jail, begs the Association
to aid and help him, He represents that he had been charged
with an assault and battery. On the examination before a police
justice, the complaint was dismissed,
monced a civil suit against him, when he was arrested and thrown
into this prison in default of bail. He has no money, or friends
His persecutors then com-
‘who can assist him, We lost no time in finding the plaintiffs in
the action. Much time was sacrificed in our attempts to convince
them and their counsel that the defendant was unable to pay the
costs. We did, however, succeed in procuring hhis discharge, for
which he appeared thankful to the Association, ‘This unfortunate
man had been in the eustody of the sheriff, on this contemptible
charge, not less than 124 day:
No. 82 was charged with forging an order for $28. Heappeared
to be very painfully exercised in mind thatbe should have yielded
toa temptation of this grave character. The Association dil
gently ingnired into his past history. When very young he had
Veen adopted by a kind-hearted christian man of this city, and
rho had acted the part of an affectionate parent towards him,
Ho was well educated, clothed, fed and a useful trade taught him,
He gave his friends much trouble by his restless, unstable dispo-
tition; but this was the first dishonest act of his life since his
adoption.
This statement was submitted to the district attorney, who con-
tented to a plea of forgery in the fourth degree. The court eas
pended the judgment, and ho was discharged. ‘The family who
had dono so much for him sent him a supply of good clothes and.
30 [Assenozy
a sufficient sum to defray his expenses to the far west, where wo
confidently hope he is now doing well
No. 33 was convicted of stealing a one dollar bill, the property
of his employer. ‘This young man appeared to fecl most keenly
the degradation of his present position,
‘Tho Association had inquired into all the facts of this case. Up
to this arrest he bad sustained a very good character. On this
roprosentation judgment was suspended, for which he scomed
overjoyed
No. 34 calls, accompanied by his wile, to say, since they ceased
to drink they have ceased to fight. They aro now cheerful and
happy. ‘They thanked the Association most heartily.
No. 85 asks the Association to assist her in getting from tho
police officer several articles which were taken from ber by him
when she was arrested. We ascertained the officor’s whereabouts,
and saw that her little property was rostored.
No, 36. A mother calls and prays the Association to restore to
hor her son, now in prison charged with petit larceny. She say
with such a soul as his he never could be mean enough to steal.
Careful inquiries were made, and the result influenced the Asso
When brought before
ciation in recommending his discharge.
the court, judgment was suspended.
No. 87. ‘The friends of this young man called on the Association
to enlist its influence in his behalf, He is now in prison, charged
with embezzlement. ‘They cannot think him guilty of even @
fraudulent intent to injure any one. They are willing to testify his
past life has no blot. Such was found to be the case. When
brought up for trial, judgment was suspended at request of com
plainant.
No. 38. The Danish consul calls to ask the aid of the Associa.
tion, in behalf of a man now confined in Eldridge streot jail, on a
chazgo of amuggling 200 cigars from on board a:ship from Ham
burgh. The marshal, the district attorney, and the collector of
the port, were seen by the agent of the Association, who called
their attention to this case as one of a very insignificant charac
ter. ‘The prisoner's charactor was very good, and he was not to
Dlame, having no idea the few cigars were in the bag with the
clothing sent to his wife to wash. His imprisonment had dis-
tracted his family sadly; they are now wanting the necessaries of
life. The collector immediately ordered his discharge, for which
they all appeared thankful.
No. 89. Was charged with embezzlement. ‘The caso was sont
\asy- 98
No, 185.] 31
to the court of special sessions, with a request of the district
mney that enquiry be made into his character. Said note was
placed in the hands of the Association. We ascortained the
defendant had been in the employment of complainant. over two
years, and had conducted himself with great propriety; the
employer retired from his business leaving several bills for collec-
tion in his hands: several times he had called for the sums
collected, but he happened to bo from home, at length he suspected
his money had been used or spent, he caused his arrest, having
sscertained that he had received on his account $18, and failed to
pay tho same over; defendant admitted ho had that sum and $50
over, which he was ready to pay, and should have paid had he
seen him, When brought up this was proven, and he was instantly
acquitted.
No. 40, These two mon were convicted of assault and battery
and sentenced to the penitentiary for three months each. The
disproportion of the punishment to the alleged trifling offense
committed, induced the Association to ask the court to withdraw
the sentence until next court, when a fuller and fairer statement
af all the facts would be submitted. Such was the ease; instead
of sending these men to the penitentiary as at first proposed, a
fino of $5 each was inflicted; this latter decision was much more
equitable and fair,
‘No. 41. Remanded by last court on charge of stealing a ham,
that enquiries should be made of her habits and character. ‘These
were found to be very good; there seemed to be some mistake—
hor life had beon without a stain, On our recommendation she
was discharged.
No. 42, Was remanded also, last court day, on a charge of
petit larceny. When brought up this a. m. her eyes were much
swollen, her entire system was sadly distressed ; the complaint was
very frivolous and ought never to have been sent to this court.
This young woman refused to romain in her situation, although
fered an advance of wages. When thoy found she was doter-
mined to Teave, this petty charge was trumped up against her,
and on which she was arrested ; her charactor had beem uniformly
g00d, very good, previous to this complaint. Judgment was sus-
pended and .she was discharged. ‘The Association immediately
applied to the family for her wages; the same were promptly paid j
tho girl scomed to be very thankful.
No. 43. Was confined in the city prison, charged with commit-
tings grand larceny, stealing a gold watch, ‘The story of this
2 [Asenscnr
man was so simple, and apparently truthful, that we believed him
innocént of the alleged theft. ‘The papers were carefully ex
‘amined which showed that complainant had lost his watch, but as
agoinst the defendant, it was a case of mere suspicion, on a very
flimsy tenure. From subsequent enquiries we found the watch liad
‘been taken away by a woman with whom its owner had cohabited;
she had, since the arrest of this poor follow, restored the property.
‘The attention of the district attorney was speedily called to this
fact; the papers were sont before the grand jury; no bill was
found; hence the prisoner was discharged.
‘No, 44. Charged with grand larceny; had been in prison five
months without trial, the witnesses could not be found to appear
against him, His health was fast failing him. ‘The Association
prayed the court to diecharge him. ‘The district attorney inter
posed no objection. He seemed to dance with joy.
No. 45. Was charged with grand larceny. When brought up
before tho court of general sessions she was in great trepidation,
foarfal of being sent to the State prison, She was remanded, that
the Association might enquire into all the circumstances, as well
fas to report what had been her previous character. The pro-
perty, we ascertained, had been restored ; it was her first offense
he district attorney consented to accept the plea of petit
larceny. ‘Tho complainant accompanied the agont to the bar aud
bogged tho merey of the court, Sentenee, three months in the
penitentiary.
‘No, 46. Was arraigned on a charge of grand larceny, in court
"The association being familiar with all the
of general sessions. :
‘ xy to accept a ples of
facts in this case, asked the district ator
petit larceny, the clothes taken and pledged being worth less then
25. The plea was accepted. When brought up for sentence, the
agent prayed the court to be lonient towards him; he had been
Tong time without employment, under a severe pressure; wanting
money very bad he yielded to the temptation of taking several
shirts, which he pledged for a few dollars. Tt was bis 6
‘offense; he had exhibited deep repentance, and most re
had he purposed nevor to be guilty of such an act again.
complainant had uo desire to press the complaint against him
‘he recorder was actuated by motives of an enlightened humanity,
‘Judgment was suspended and he was discharged. Ho exprossed
then, and as often since, his unfeigned thankfulness for the inter
sition which saved him from punishment.
veno 47. Was convicted of assault and battery and sentonced f©
\aey- 83
No. 185.] 33
tho city prison for one month. Her sister was seen in court by
the agent. of the Association, in great mental distress. Before
the adjournment a fellow holp of this poor girl came in to testify
inher favor. She was again brought into the court room. Such
was the conflicting evidence given, the Association asked the court
to give the doubt to the benefit of the prisoner. She was then dis
charged and her wages obtained for her.
No. 48. Was visited in the tombs; he appeared to feel deeply
sensible of the degraded condition in which he was found ; charged
with grand larceny. He had spent the evening with a relativo,
and when about to leave, had stolen his friond’s gold watch. He
frankly, and with bitter tears, acknowledged his guilt, that he
had, in & moment of unexpected temptation, wickedly yielded to
do wrong, and that he could never forgive himself for the disgrace
he hed brought on his own character, and the mental anguish pro-
duced in the minds of his family, and the heart of his mother.
Appropriate means were taken, and this penitent young man
was saved from the disgrace and roin of a protracted imprison-
mont. He left the prison, evidently moved with a sense of hi
own folly and unworthiness, and solemnly resolved, in the future,
to avoid “the very appearance of evil.” He expressed his best
thanks to the Association, for the timely help that had been ren-
dered him.
‘The following letter was sent us by his mother :
(Copy.)
To the agent of the Prison Association:
Dear Sir: Permit me to express my gratefal thanks for your
Lind services rendered, in rescuing my son from a living tomb,
and myself from days and nights of distressing sorrow.
Igive hearty thanks to the giver of every good and perfect gift,
that our feeble prayers were heard and answered, and that means
were at hand, and those succossful. My hoarty dosire is, that
you may be cheered in all your labor
My son joins me in these humble thanke, with an earnest desire
'o profit by the past, and live more careful in the future.
‘Thankfully yours,
No. 49. Called at the office of the Association to confer with
its agent; he had been addicted to dishonest practices the last
fire years, but from several causes, such as his own physical
‘alferings, his apprehension of being sovorely punished in the
[Assembiy, No. 185.] 3
34 [Assroimy
fature if not in the present life, his wife’s constant wretchedness
‘and mental diequiotude, the upbraidings of a guilty conscience,
the rosult of an carly religious training by his poor but pious
mother, all combined to make his existence too intolerable to be
porne; he had now made up his mind to mend his ways. To
asks advice. We sat down with him, counting the cost of tho
path now to be pursued. He deliberately resolved, if he perished,
he would become an honest man, ‘The association took him by
the hand, he was supplied with eufficiont means, just to enable
him to got the necessaries of life, until work was provided for
him; he went at it in earnest; his sincority was put to the test,
and he showed conclusively, that he meant to reform. He did
reform the noon meetings for prayer and praise in our city, were
of groat moral advantage to him ; be derived great strength from
them; such a change has been wrought in his experience, that wo
now have confidence in him, that he will characterize the honest
man. i
‘We copy a letler addressed to the Association by him some
twelve weeks subsequent to the nowly acquired happy experience.
(Copy-)
New York Crrx.
Sir: Twant to write to you, but know not how. Permit mo
©! to say that I have been in this city the last five years; my Dust
ness was that of @ professional pickpocket. Al this time T was.
stranger to happiness, although never onco convicted of crime.
Thad dread of being arrested and punished ; how 1 escaped I
cannot tell; perhaps because of my honest little wife, who always
Gntreated me to steal no more. She prayed for mo; I think her
sighs and tearsto the Lord, led me first to call on you at your offic
new about four months ago. Since then I have been an honost
man. Many a time we wanted bread; my poor wife and aad
Gould not sleep for hunger. “My old companions have often urge
me to join them again, but T did not yield, and starvation staring
'e in the faco; no food, no coal; none but my Maker knows what
me a evnuoredy but amidst ally yon kept mo up; had J not mt
vith you, we must have perished, or I continued a thief, I shsll
never forget your kindness, your adviee, and your prayers, of
the fifty conte given to me by Mr. C.,on that very cold night. E
‘were, with our few bits of furniture, just out on the sidewalk
ropent it, these things made me resolve to reform; I have salen
nothing these last four months to help me in this way. T g0 #¢
Shurch, and the more I go the more I want to go, and while
jasy- 58
No. 185.] 38
am very sorry and ashamed of my past life, I hope God will for-
sive and keop me, and show me how I can keep right and
Tam more happy now than T ever was before, I went to church.
last Sunday week; the minister soemed to know all about, mo; he
almost pointed at mo; I had to shift my seat; I thought it very
strange. Idon’t understand what religion is, but such people
appear to be the most happy, and I want the heppy to pray
for me.
Thave lived, since you set me up in the tea trade, as I prom-
ised you, dear sir; to prove grateful, I will pay back all the mony
you have lent me, I am an honest man, and such I hope to
remain.
Accept my best thanks, and do let me look up to
tion for encouragement and help. My wife’s health is improved ;
she eft the hospital last Monday. I will call and consult you
about our taking a room, as we are anxious to have our child,
‘and commence housekeeping in an humble way. Please carry
my sincere thanks to the gentlemen of your society, for the help
that has been given me, hoping I shall prove thankful and worthy.
Tam, dear sir, yours, gratefully, i
your Associa:
No. 50, Calls and says he was sent to the Penitentiary for three
months for stealing of bread. He left the prison without coat or
vest. THe bogs the Association to supply his wants and aid him
toroturn to Connecticut. He was furnished with suitable clothing
and a small amount of money.
No. 51. Says hor mistross sent her away without paying her
the wages due to her, amounting to $10—that: she was discharged
without cause or provocation, The case was investigated and
succossful moans taken to secure tho girl her wages.
No, 52. Two respectable citizens call on the Association in
lehalf of a young girl reputably connected, and who had arrived
in this country but three weeks. She had been induced to enter
and engage herself as chambermaid in a house of illfame int’
Mercer-street, not. knowing it to be of that vile character.
She is represented to be in a distracted state of mind, and most
anxious to get away; but this appoara to be impossible, the
sbominable wretches having taken her clothes from her and
refusing to give them up. ¢
An efficient officer being at our office at this interview, he
adopted proper means to rescue her from the corrupting influence
af those destroyers.
36 [Asien
No. 68. Was charged with petit Iarcony. She protosied her
innocence, whilst the complainant testified she was the girl and
was guilty. She was remanded at our request, We procured the
attendance of the lady with whom she bad lived, who spoke so
confidently of her honesty and truthfulness thst tho court dis-
charged her. She thanked the Association.
No, 54, Was convicted of assault and -battery, and sentenced
for two months to the Island, on complaint of bis wife, who testi
fied that he had struck her a week singe. ‘The husband, a very
decent, sober, well conducted looking man, admitted that he had
done s0, but that she had provoked him.
Aftor the man had been conducted to the cell, the wife was
spoken to; when a gentleman introduced himself by saying he ie
defendant's eniployer; that he had worked for him the last ten
years; his averaged earnings were $10.50 per week; his moral
character was 50 good that he would not hesitate to leave all his
business, stock and mouey in his hands; he was the most reliable
man be had ever employed. 'Thoso representations were immedi-
ately submitted to the court, when ho'was ordored again before
thom ond discharged.
Both the men and his employer expressed their hearty thanks
to tho Association, that had at the right timo interposed and
saved him from a prison, of which he never had any experience,
but an inconceivable horror.
‘No. 65. Was charged with: stealing an old vest.
Tho witness
declined to appear against him. It had been ascertained by the
Association that this poor boy is an orphan, that his parents died
two years since, and that he has no home.
Hewas remanded until something could be done for him. ‘The
Association were enabled to send him out west on a farm
(through kind friends), where he is now doing well. ;
No. 56, Had been committed ten days on charge of intom
peranee. On the third day of their confinement their wives
prayed the Association to procure their discharge, as the one had
four children and the other three children. ;
‘We ascertained that neither of these men had been provionly
in prison; they each promised to abstain from the use of strong
drink in the future, An application wae then made to the
Governors of the Alms-honse and they were discharged.
No. 67. Was an inmate of the City prison over one hundred
days. Ho was detained as a witness against his captain, who was
out on bail, charged with smuggling a quantity of cigars into this
1B 5-58
No. 185.] ( st
port, ‘The Marshal and District Attorney of the U: §. Court
engoged to bring the captain to trial as early as possible, when
‘tho witness should bo discharged,
It docs appear to be a monstrous wrong that @ guilty person o
party should be out on bail, and those who happened to witness
the alleged offense should be confined for so protracted a poriod,
and the county subjected to such expense,
No. 58. Was charged with stealing a Inco collar and sundry
other Tittle articles of small value. She appoared’ to be very
painfully exercised in mind at the disgrace brought on herself by
this petty theft. We ascertained this to be’ the first complaint
made against her.
‘The complainant was soon and influenced to show mercy ; the
court suspended the judgment and discharged her. ‘The Associa.
tion never expect to meet her again in prison,
No. 69. Was seon in. the Tombs, charged with stealing six
loaves of bread. Inquiries were diligently rtado into his circum.
stances. We learned that he was industrious; he had been ont
of employ seven weeks. ‘These faets wore made known to the
court, when judgment was susponded and he was discharged.
No. 60. Had been au inmate of the Tombs for ten. weeks, on
charge of abandonment. Considerable pains were taken to reform.
him; at length he was induced to sign the temperance pledge,
His wife, a woman of cleanly, sober habits, felt (now that he
had promised to avoid the canse of all their past troubles)
anxious to procure his release. She came to the office of the
Association, asking their advico and aid. We gladly assisted
her in gotting his discharge. Ho seemed very grateful
No. 61. The whole of the witnesses dotained in the City prison
Were this day removed to the head-quarters of the Metropolitan
Police Department, except a solitary U. 8. witnoss, who has been
confined here the last 155 days by the prosecution, his captain:
wing charged with smuggling into this port a quantity of cigars.
No. 62. Calls to say that ho is starving; that he never com
nitted a dishonest act; his necessities drove him to sleep in the
station-house; there the captain told him of the Association, and
advised him to apply for assistance here. Prevention,” said he,
“is better than cure.” In this ease we thought so too; it gave
4 pleasure to help him. Wo supplied his immediate wauts, then
found him employment.
No. 68. Was sentenced to tho Penitentiary for two months on
sharge of petit larceny. Before tho adjournment of the court;
38 [Assexovy
sevoral membors of his family were introdueod to the Association,
‘Whey urged that their father is old and infirm; that his wity
(their mother) is now-very sick; should he be sont to the Teland,
her death might be accslerated ;
Tho poor old man wes seen in the prison; he promised never
to steal the worth of a pin on any future occasion, but to live
uprightly.
Tres could inteasd to our application for his discharge, the
offense boing a trifling ono and the first he had committed.
Tho family were glad and thankfel. :
Nos. 64 and 65. Were confined in the City prison on complaint
of a German emigrant who had beon robbed, as he reprosents, of
$27. Ho suspected one of these two porsons, who came over in
the same ship with him from Liverpool. ‘They arrived in this
port Iate on Saturday—Janded at Castle Garden. On Sunday the
three repaired to Mulberry street and stayed in the one lodging-
house, the two men in one room; the woman occupied an adjoin-
ing bed-room with the landlady and her daughter. When he
arose in the morning he discovered his loss. ‘The Association
visited them in prison; their story was simple ond apparently
truthful. ‘The complainant did not appear on tho examination;
hence they were discharged. .
A situation was found for the woman; the man commenced to
peddle; he suoceeded, and eventually married her. ‘They aro
now doing well. ‘They assure the Association never shall they
forgot ‘A friend in need is friend indeed.” ;
No. 66. Charged with stealing a coat from his boarding house.
‘He was remanded." On the following court day it was shown that
he had gone to Philadelphia on business, there he discovered his
mistake, he roturned to the same boarding house not only to
return the garment but to stay for a time, when he was sur
prised by an arrest, ‘Those facts were submitted. The court
was led to believe ho would not have returned to the samo house,
with the coat in his trunk, had he intended to keep it. He was
discharged.
Na 6], Wore oovvloted of sven two pr shies ‘eat ‘ilike
of very small value. ‘The court considered the evidence concle:
sive against them; the agent of the Association thought other
‘wise; he asked the discharge of the woman; the court objected;
if man and wife the law would be satisfied in his conviction and
punishmont. The court had no evidence of their being such ; agent
Degged that they be remanded until next court day, when she
9s]- 53
No. 185.] 39
could, if allowed now to depart, produce the certificate of their
marriage, and that their characters were above reproach oF
suspicion. Agent became responsible for hor appearance at the
next sittings sho was then permitted to leave. As promised,
she appeared, and produced not only her cortificate of marriage,
but very satisfactory evidence of their being persons of excellent
reputation, It was also shown the complainant was in their
debt, for work somo time since performed. At request of tho
Association they wore both discharged; they were assisted with
money until employment was obtained for them.
No. 68, was convicted of being drunk. On being soarched
after his commitment a brass coupling worth 20s, was found in,
his possession. Ho told the officor whore he had been; this led
to the owner and identification of the coupling; for this offense
he was committed to the court of special sessions for trial. When
brought up hé was proven guilty. Agent reminded the court the
old gentleman did not look to bo a dishonest man, He was re-
manded that some enquiries might be niade of his character, and
at the next sitting of the court the Awociation reported favorably
in his bobalf; his standing in society had been uniformly good;
Judgment was suspended and he was discharged. Ho has often
called on the Association since, expressing his gratofil thanks for
the assistance rendored him,
No. 69. A sailor charged with an assault was romanded, the
complainant having left the room in consequence of her noigy
infant. ‘The wife of the sailor was seen weeping, sho said her hus.
band had shipped and had a due bill for $30, the ship was to bo
hauled out into the stream this y. x. and would sail in the morn:
ing. ‘The witness was sent for by the agent and the court was
solicited, under the circumstances, to have the prisoner again
brought out and tried; this was done; the affair was of a very
frivolous character and he was discharged. Both man and wife
expressed their hearty thanks; she would not now be put into
the street as she had apprehended.
No. 10. Convicted of stealing three books; was sentenced to
the Penitentiary for two months.
The mental distress exhibited by this prisoner induced the
Association to ask the court, with the concurrence of the eom-
Plainant, to withdraw the sontence and remand him until the
ext sitting, that inguiries may be made whether his story, that
he has a wife and family, be true, and are now in very indigent
circumstances.
40 [Assexoiy
“We carefully investigated this case, and confirmed the state-
ment he had made; his wife was in court to-day and begged their
morcy. The man promised to steal no more. ‘Tha complainant
co-operated with the Association and obtained his discharge.
‘They seemed very thankful that ke had been saved from going to
the penitentiary.
No. 71. Most of the inmates in Kings county jail were seen
and spoken with.
‘The unfortunate tnan, Kelly, charged with the murder of his
wife, eid to Agent, “Bet for Rum it never would havo hap-
pened—had J done as my wife did.” When asked what was
that, replied, “She signed the pledge of Father Mathew, and
nothing would induce her to break it. Mr. Boal, I never should
have murdered my wile but for Rum.”
‘Reynolds, for the murder of his brother in Brooklyn, said, “1
wish Thad never drank liquor, then this would not have bap-
ened.”
pono. 72, Was arraigned in court of geucral sessions for steal
ing $24 from the person with whom she had lived as help. She
admitted taking the money, and becanse they would not pay her
the amount of wages, long since due.
On this occasion she saw him—her employer—put a large sum
of money in gold into his desk. When he was out, sho forced the
Jock and took ont one large gold piece and four small gold coivs;
she knew not the value of said pieces. She left the house and
‘went to her sister, showing her the money now taken. An officer
arrested her, to whom she very frankly acknowledged the whole
affair.
In court, under advice of the Association, she pload guilty;
tho oxtenuating circumstances were pointed out, when his Honor
the Recorder suspended the judgment and discharged her.
‘Agent subsequently called on the family for the wages due thit
poor girl, amounting to $2350, which was peremptorily refused.
‘The case was sont to civil court.
‘The Association aided the girl until a situation was found her
and her wages paid. ;
‘No. 13. Was arraigned in court of sessions on charge of petit
Jareeny. ‘The evidence was insufficiont to commit her; she was
Aischarged:
‘Tho Association sent her to a boardinghouse until a place of
work was provided for her; within ten days she was comfortably
fixed and is now doing well. 4
\a57-5%
No, 185.] 4a
No. 74. Says ho loft the penitentiary this morning a wiser if
not a better man; he thinks the punishment may yet prove a
blessing to him. ' Drink was the cause of his trouble; i shall, he
prety rouble him no more, except to persuade othrs uot to
drink it. ’
‘The Association secured him work.
No. 75. Charged with grand larceny. ‘The officer who arrested
him recommended a lawyer; it would occupy some time to find
Lim, but this he cheerfully offered to do for expenses out of pocket
$8. The prisoner's foars were excited. Another lawyer was
introduced ; he made light of the complaint, and said, you bad}
otter get bail. Give me $20 and I will secure a man who will) *%
bail you ont in afew hours, A bartender whom he had seen}
three or four times called on him and said: “I have a friend
who for $25 would have bailed you out; this person present, who |
as come with mo, knows him well, and he could induce him tof
do it for you right away, but he would require $10.” ‘These sums | <&
vere given to those profossed frionds (968); he saw them no} -¥
nore, At longth tho first counsel camo to his relief —he sym,
yathized with him—took the balance of his funds, $25. He camal
up for trial; counsel advised him to plead guilty, when he wed SS
sentenced to State prison for — years,
The prisoner had $95 in his possession whon arrested on this
charge. This is.» protty fair specimen of the practical opera.
tions of the skinning and shystering of those fellows called Tombs
lawyers,
No, 76. Hed been committed to the Tombs for disorderly con-
duct. He was seen by Agent to be in a sinto of great mental
trouble, On inquiry, wo atoertained his ship was hauled out in
the stream, and that his berth as well as his clothes would be lost
tsless he was reloased.
We examined the papers and found the complaint to be of a
tory frivolous character, His discharge was then obtained. Ho
left with a glad and cheerful heart
No. T7. Was charged with aseault and battery, on complaint of
bia wife. She subsequently called on the Agent of the Associa-
‘ion, begging him to got him released, and for soveral strong
sasons, as sho urged: Ist. Ho was drank when ho struck her}
2, He has a family of six children; 3. The rent falls due on
Thursday next; 4th. Ho will loso his work if kept in prison;
tb. Ho will sign the pledge and drink no more. These cogent
easons led the Association to ask for: his discharge; the court
scquiesced.
seep euy > |
42 [Assexory
No.'18, Was convictod of assault and ‘battery, and fined §20,
His wife, accompanied by his landlord, calls and begs the Associ
ation to interpose with the court inhis behalf. Great provocation
had been given him or he would not have done wrong,
We diligently inquized into his past history and present ci.
cumstances, We found he had boon out of employment all Inst
winter; that now he had plenty of work; that his wife and four
children would be seriously inconvenienced, and more punished
than himself, were he to be kept in prison. The Association
made these facts known, when the fine was remitted and he was
discharged.
No. 79. Was sentenced ton days in City prison on charge of
intemperance, ‘Tho wife of this wretched man was seen in prison
‘wooping most sadly. ;
He signed the pledge, and promised to keop it and begin at
once to reform,
One of the almhonse governors was seen and his discharge
obtained. "4
‘The man and wife thanked the Association, and showered down
thoir blessings on them in the name of their five helpless children.
No. 80. Was charged with grand lareeuy, Under adviee of
tho Association she plead guilty to petit larcony.
‘This poor girl was ovidontly inexperienced in crim
ascertained her character to be very good up to this complaint
‘The prosecutor co-operated with the Association in urging tho
court to suspend the judgment and to discharge her. We then
obtained a situation for her away in the country, where wo have
no doubt of her doing well.
No. 81. Plead guilty to tho charge of stealing 10s. from a man
when drunk. Ho was dropping it as he walked; and prisoner
being out of work, a stranger, with a wife and one child in grest
want, was tempted for the first time in bis Jifo to take it, It was
alittle relief to his mind that this poor drunken fellow would
have lost it. ‘Tho crime did not appear so great, although he felt
sorry for the wrong he had done,
The story was ascertained to be true, With the consent of
tho complainant, judgment was suspended and the man was dir
charged
No. 82 was committed for examination on charge of assealt.
His wife was seen weeping in the police court. She represented
that hor three helpless children required his presence; that be
would lose his work, besides which, he was not guilty: "The com
j we bad
wey- 5%
No. 186.] 43
plainant was seen; he waited on the committing magistrate and
id, “Sir, be pleased to let him go.”
No. 88 was committed to the workhouse for vagrancy, Her
F brother, doing business in the city, ealls on the Association and
says she is a widow, and that an unprincipled officer had, for
reaeons that officer would not like made known to the police com-
missioners, influenced: the magistrate to send her there for four
months, without thyme or reason, and that it is a burning shame
to keep her from her home and her fatherless childron, ‘The re-
spectability of the mother was ascertained; the character of his
sister was found to be in every way correct. Appropriate means
wore then taken, and she was discharged.
No, 84, once a reputablo merchant, but reduced by strong
drink, was charged with stealing a piece of dress pattern, He
vas well known to complainaut, having been in his employ for
some considerable time, He was under the influence of drink
when detected in taking goods from the store. Several merchants
vere seen, all of whom certified that thé prisoner had been ad-
dicted to intemperance the last four years; that they never knew
him to be dishonest. Ho promised to do better and was discharged,
No. 85 was charged with petit larceny, stealing a shawl. She
represented to the court that this was her first offonse. She
legged the merey of the court on account of her two small chil-
dren, She was remanded, that inquiries might be made of her
character and family.
On the following court day the Association reported that she is
sn habitual inebriate, and has no children. She still asserted
that her character was good, and that she had two orphans.
When asked where they were, she replied, “Yer honor, I left
them in the ould counthry nine years ago.” She was then sen-
teiced to the penitentiary for four months,
No, 86, remanded last court, on charge of being found in the
basoment of a dwelling house under (as was alleged) ciroiinstan-
ces of suspicion.
The Association represented to the court this morning, that they
had visited her home; the family are in abject distreas, resulting
from the intemperance of the husband and father ; her character
's good; if discharged this morning, a friend would send them all
to the country, and employ them. She had two children with
ber who had the whooping cough, and fortunately for the mother
Sey commenced coughing. Their advocacy was efficient. ‘Tho
‘ourt-listened and discharged her.
44 [Assexauy
No.'87 was charged with receiving stolen goss, She adniitted
purchasing the three articles in question, but contended she bad
paid a fair price for them, and had no idea of their being stolen.
When brought up for trial, her counsel did not appear. To ono,
the first engaged, she had paid $35, but had nevor soon him since;
to the other she paid $25, and assigned her interest in two lots,
Neither of those gentlemen were present. ‘The Association stated
to the court that sho would plead guilty to buying those few little
things, but that she knew uot they had been stolen. Diligent in-
quiries bad been made respecting her past character; it lad been
above reproach. Judgment. was suspended, and she was dis
charged.
No. 88 was arraigned on charge of an attempt at burglary
the third degree. He was without money or counsel. Under our
advice he plead not guilty. He was tried and convicted of an at
tompt of petit larceny, and sentenced to thepenitentiary for three
months. He appeared to be very thankful to the Association for
the interest shown in his bebalf, and which he thought had saved
him from a worse fate. He protests bis entire innocence of the
charge, but admits of late, the last few months, he had indulged in
the use of liquor, which had injured him much, He promised to
road, think and become a better man.
‘No. 89 was arrested on charge of forgery, and fully committed
for trial. Ho was subsequently visited by the agent of the Asco
ciation in the City prison, when he complained of sickness and
the want of other food than the prison allowance. He represevted
that he had in his poeket-book, when arrested, $695—six one hun
dred dollar bills, which he hed carefully placed under the silk or
cotton lining of said pocket-book, the balance, $98, were in bills
of two's and three’s, On his way to prison the officer suggested
to him the name of a lawyer he thought best to engage for his
defense. ‘That gentleman very soon called to see him, and offered
his professional services, which were accepted. He then informed
his counsel that the officer had his pocket-book, which he wanted.
An order was written and addressed to said officer, requesting him
to deliver to counsel the pocket-book and its contents; the same
was.to be restored to prisoner. When asked if he had told hi
counsel the amount of bills in the officer's possession, replied, "I
said nothing of the $600, lest I should be charged a very heavy
fee.” Prisoner applied to counsol for eash to procure food, which
was refused, on the ground that there were but $95 in the book,
and his fee was $150. ‘The empty book was with difficulty ob-
\osy- 53
1 No. 185.]
| tained, The counsel finally advised his client to plead guilty of
forgery in the fourth degree, and the youth was sentenced to the
penitentiary for one year.
If the $600 had been placed carefully in the book, as repre-
sented, thon it was lost to the prisoner. Who found it is a prob-
Jem not yet solved,
No. 90. Was tried in court of general sessions and acquitted ;
when the District Attorney ordered her to be taken back to tha
tombs, and to the court of special sessions, and there sentenced
on a former conviction of petit larceny, some sixteen months since.
‘The Association made diligent enquiries concerning her habits and
character, especially during that term. ‘There being no evidence
ofany one dishonest act since, the court suspended the judgment
and discharged her.
No. 91. Charged with stealing clothes, valued at twelve dollars ;
lor guilt was established.
‘Tho Association felt constrained to inform the court that she
jad been previously arrested on charge of grand larceny, but was
acquitted. When discharged, sho went to her friends in the coun-
try, and promised to stay there; but she is evidently bent ona
life of prostitution. It was snggested that six months in the pen-
itentiary might be an advantage to her; the court adopted our
recommendation.
No, 92, Father and son were charged with assault and battery ;
complainant said she has been married to the elder defendant ten
months ; he had latterly given way to drink, and when under its
influence was very ugly.
‘The son-inlaw had slapped her face; she admitted speaking
‘eproachfully of his own mother ; this provoked him, and he struck
ler; he promised not to offend again. The. Association recom-
nended the court to discharge them ; the court acquiesced; they,
under the advice.of tho Association? went to Dr. Marsh and signed
the pledge; all of them promised to do better.
No. 93. Was cliarged with stealing » five dollar gold piece.
She plead guilty, sind urged as an exouse, that she was without
necessary clothing, and ashamed to go into the street. The whole
of the money had been devoted to the purchaso of clothing, all of
vhich wore now in the possession of complainant.
She was remanded until the Association could asertain somo-
thing about her, and to find her a situation; this was done, a
favorable report made, and the girl was discharged, when a place
of work was found her.
46 [Assraony
No, 94. Calls to ask advice of the Association. Her grand-son
hhad been arrested on charge of burglary in the third dogree;
Jawyer had offered his services; he could defend him and get him
finally discharged, but she must pay him ten dollars. She sold
her bed and several articles from her miserable room, these ari.
cles realized her but four dollars, and her landlady had lent her
three, which made seven dollars. This she paid to him, but he had
never seen to tho caso. When the youth was tried, he was nol
present.
‘The poor old woman was advised to see the counsel, and respe
fully urge the return of the money, but this was angrily refused;
she then applied to the court where her offorts were equally unsuc
cossful.
No. 95. Was indicted for an attempt at grand Inrcony;; he plead
guilty. ‘The Association ascertained that he was addicted to
drinking, and on this occasion he appeared to be laboring under
some strange delusion. Nothing had been romoved from the prem
, ises. His character for honesty had been good. ie has a large
family to support.
He, to avoid a repetition of such disasters, now resolves to sign
‘the temperance pledge, and to keep it; the leniency of the court
was prayed in his behalf. The judge, under the circumstance,
suspended the judgment and discharged him, for which he almost
danced with joy.
No. 96. A poor, dejected looking woman was seen in court, «
picture of sadness. When asked, “are you sick ?” roplied,
am almost dead.” Last Saturday my unfortunate husband drenk
too freely, and threatened to beat me; he did strike me, and made
fa great noise; an M. P. arrested him, and he was committed.
‘He now regrets all he did, and I freely forgive him; but I cast
get him out of prison, Ihave five ebildren, and should he lose
his work, what shall wo dovall the long winter which has jus!
begun ?
‘The man was seen by tho agent, and promised to drink no more
intoxicating drinks for two years; on this éondition the court
was urged to discharge him. "Ho was then bronght out and diz
charged. ‘The man and wife heartily thanked the Association.
No. 97. Was charged with petit larceny, and remanded last
court day, with a request that the Association would make some
enquiry about her. We ascertained that herself, two children,
and her husband had lived in the country for five years, and ustil
the last three weeks, when she removed with her children into ®
VES -
No. 185.] 41
tenant house in the city. Here she became acquainted with a
woman fond of liquor. ‘The justice, for whom hor husband had
long worked in Eastchostor, called at the office of the Association,
| and kindly engaged to give him permanent employ ; the court was
}) recommended to let the woman go; she was then discharged.
No. 98. Was charged with striking his Inte employer. ‘The
complainant appeared to be very wroth; the court fined the
defendant ten dollars; great provocation had been given him, or
he would not have given the blow. ‘The court was urged in con-
sideration of this fact, and of his wife being nearly blind, to remit
the fine. On the Saturday he was brought into court, the fine
omitted, and ho was discharged.
No. 99. Was indicted for grand larceny, stealing several shirt
the District Attorney accepted a ples of petit larceny. ‘The Iar-
ceny was committed by another woman unknown to her; she was
pursued by an officer, and had thrown them away; this woman
picked them up. Her character had been good up to this timo.
Judgment was suspended, and sho was discharged.
No. 100. On charge of abandonment had been confined in the
City prison for three months.
‘Tue Association had often written to the wife. At length sho
called at our office. She complained that her husband had not
provided for his family as ho should do; he had nover left his
home, but he would be boss, and buy only such things as he
deemed best, without consulting her at all, He earned about
$7 a week, and as he would not act as she desired, but was ugly,
she bad kept him in prison. ‘This poor woman was reminded that
horself and her children had been much moro punished than he.
Agent suggested ‘a better way: if they, could not live happily
together, then part; to keep him in prison would accomplish
vothing. She then placod herself under the protection and
advice of the Association, ‘The husband was seen; he bad nine dol
lars in his employers’ hands; agent urged him to give an order on
them for five dollars, and in the futuro to allow her three dollara per
week, then he would procure his discharge; he consented and he
Was discharged accordingly.
‘The woekly allowance has beon paid into our hands since, with
the: utmost regularity; it is handed over immediately to the
family, and all parties appear to be satisfied.
‘These instances will give some idea of our labors.
of such, aud of equal intorest, might be mentioned.
A review of the past should excite our gratoful acknowledg-
Hundreds
48 [Assn
ments, Wo have, undor the divine blessing, aided many desery.
ing persons, by the exercise of kindness. Bitter tears have dried
up, hearts well siigh broken have been restored to confidence and
hope, and the wanderer has been happily awakened and brought
back to character and a home. Our successes have exeeoded our
most sanguine expectations. We have tried to win over aud per.
suade men to forsake their evil ways, and we have abundant
evidence that our efforts, though fecble, have not been in vain,
The blessings of those who wero ready to perish are our rich
reward. Therefore we have God to thank, and we take conrage
to go on, and on, and on, in those works of merey and of love
‘Your agent thankfully recognizes and acknowledges the urban:
ity and attention of those connected with the administration of
criminal justice in New York and Brooklyn. ‘The advice and
eounsel so cheerfully afforded him, in the prosecution of his
labors, by the District Attorneys and their assistants, he most
gratefully appreciates,
And in conclusion I beg that you will yourselves, aceopt my
thanks for the timely and cheerful aid your committee has so
‘uniformly rendered me in my labors; and, with an unalterable
determination still to work while it is day, in this fleld of hopefl
effort, with unabated ardor and untiring industry.
Tam, sir, yours respectfully,
ABRAHAM BEAL,
Osrice or Paisow Assoctatsox,
15 Caxraz Starer, New York, January, 1859.
To the Committee on Discharged Convicts,
Bicuann Resp, Ese., Chairman:
Doar Sir—Herewith, in conformity with your rules and by-laws
is presented a very brief report, of the practical work done
in this branch of our operatibns during the last two years onding
Bist December, 1858.
‘There are multitudes of persons who are altogether faithless in
regard to the value of any time, or any offort bestowed om
prisoners, or discharged conviets. The opinion is formed that
those who commit. crimes, and thereby subject themselves ‘to
punishment, in the penitentiary or State prison, are beyond the
reach of all substantial improvement, if not beyond all claim
‘upon the sympathies of a moral and christian community. Yos,
the greater part of the world, and a large proportion of the
church, are very apt to look upon all convicted persons, in the
51-59
No. 185.] 2 T 49
same light—as utterly depraved, as hopelessly fallen. ‘This is a
sad mistake, if not an uncharitable and wicked conclusion, for it
isa well ascertained fact that more than three-fourths of the
convicts discharged from our State prisons, repent of the crimes
they have conimitted—go and sin no more, and in despite of all
obstacles, persevero in living honest lives.
The truth, then, is irresistible, that the discharged convict
is an unfortunate follow-ereaturo, needing our pity and our
friondly commiseration; though guiliy and fallon, he has yet a
heart to feel, and the effect of human sympathy and christian
Kindness, may be to touch somo chord of the soul, which has
refused to vibrate to harsher sounds, or to call into exercise some
remaining portion of humanity which has hitherto lain dormant,
under the withering influence of neglect, or bad associations
followed by some criminal offense, and: the arbitrary administra’
tion of retributive justice.
In connection with our labors we have witnessed many pleasing
illustrations of the magical power of kindness. ¢
A poor, crushed, desolate creature, called at ouroffice and stated ©
‘hat he had been confined in one of our State prisons during the ©
last five years; after giving us his entire history, begged that he ©
night be provided with work at anything and anywhere; that he
could not seek it himself as every one seemed to look upon him as —*
State prison bird.” He said, imploringly, “ please furnish mes”
with employment and I solemnly promise neither to disgrac
nyself nor bring discredit on you or the Association.” We deli
cately hinted that his clothes were unsuitable; we handed him a %
small looking-glass, and never shall we forget the effect produced. ¢
He stood aghast, and almost petrified. After recovering the ¢
Shock he wept most distreasingly. ‘When asked what had pro. §
duced such painful emotions, he ropliod, “I have not seen myself =)
in a looking-glass the last five years and four months. I woll ©
remember what I was then, and oh! what amI now? a discharged $7 ]
convict, and every body knows me to be stich!” It is true, his
appearance was most sadly against him. We spoke words of.
Kicdness to him. He was taken into an adjoining room to our 3
office, whore he had a good wash, He was then furnished with a =
decent shirt and a suit of clothes. We tied a black silk bandker-
chief about his neck, ‘This act overwhelmed him and he wept cor
vulsively. After the lapse of holf an hour's friendly conversation, 7
[Assembly, No! 185. 4 =
B57- 5%
50 [Assexmny mates \857. we
‘wo were delightod to see hope beaming in his eye; whilst he felt ‘tho troatment of lunatics the law of kindness is the only means
encouraged to thank God, the Prison Association proved to him which can be successfully used in their government and control,
an ark of safety. We wore enabled to place this poor fellow ina A visit to our Innatic Asylum on Blackwoll’ Island will convines
Place of work af idolin: a day, and belies called ‘upon ag tine Bo skeptical of the superiority of the p: le of kindness
or four times sinee our first interview. He says he shall nevor res that Gt facchooae
forget that day, when the hankerchiof was tied around his neck. ‘This principle is eapable of extensive application, Tn overy
‘He observed “I shall never steal again, for T always earry that relationship of man, kindness will produce the samo beneficial re-
hondkerchief with me.” ; a s sults, Tt draws out the better part of every nature, disarming ~
Aa a peoples we sre very slow to give up cur faith ta the ‘pein. resistance, dissipating angry passions, and melting the hardost <?
iple of physical force, We are too apt to think it necessary for heart. It overcomes tho evil and strengthens the good. In a
ithe correction and discipline of men. All civilized nations have veord, thon, let us say, apply it with all its power in our prisona
‘been very tardy in abandoning their faith in force. The proposal everywhere. Then, und not till then, can we reasonably hope to
ylocsettie! quarrels by. pescefil means is etl too;often: held tke see them moral hospitals, and their afflicted inmates restored to =|
“Utopian.” We have been so trained and educated into the be. moral health. We repeat that we should extend to our prisons 3
[lief of the efficacy of foree, that we ean scarcely imagine it pos- abundant and appropriate moral appliances, “Then will the
| sible that the framo-work of society eould bo kept together upos tire of the disobedient be turned to the wisdom of the just,” gf |
| any other principle, and the hardened culprit wil feel constrained to reform; unhealthy
"There are tome, however, who ontortain the beliof that eystem and inhuman punishments will bo nambored among tho thines
ie coctoion pogele, Bind soevinace, and thes 8 ee 2H UO TE lias woresnnd thera will close appeeboncioece probability, when! |
shildse or man Dy: vislens methods, we only oul forth wasnt of TA 'caecred to beri of o ote en S
rebellion, which breaks out in violent deeds of hatred, vice and Wo still avow ourusives the friends of the discharged convicts
cates, Fe Gis Dshory of Whe: world we think we sce.saoet OLS” TE Gus ayeipathies and aactony solldltads mirce ia behalf, remain
a demonstration of the failure of physical force. If we would unabated. During the last two years we have more than ever
sake men better and happier, we should employ @ greater and more felt that they have strong claims pon us. Our labors in this de-
Teepetont Torus, ris, the formes af gentloceee: the pater oC tte UE ssscsont ware dltaw of nvory tryioant ombarraesing character}
‘ness. In the instances in which this power has been fairly tried, but, prompted as we have been by a sense of duty, by love to
how magical have been the effects produced! Humane and gentle God and towards our neighbor, we have steadily endeavored to
methods of treating men, whether in prison or ont of prison Bere WE sosorm the work futhiuty, We lve ee “eeere sad
‘aren 1h SRY, cae Oe Hae Oy. Siroummances, produeed fee Wh ith carnast Giclity:to beusit chase ercinvacce ta body, mind and
ance or rebellion; have never made them worse, but, in all cases, circumstances. ‘They come from our respective prisons often, very
have made them better. Kindness is a constraining power. It Th onion cast down, weil nigh crushed, hopeless and dejected, almost
slevetss ad eigen All whi ae trought wncersteinaienses 1k UA is us ruin., Woe ieee light up the spark of
Anion: ith: i. many and whos Sith nmania batter mater: WF tive witha dion, Olea Mela ae eo
bo better methods of: treatment will:iinprove him; Distrusticl item and gustain'thiwi andl ¢ alace sf ook away from city life
men makes them vicious and criminal; end continued distract Hi and its powerful temptations, is obtained. And, should the ques.
Hap iow gn ‘Sanco on flecpettntnslovand Sialeipreos, Ml snd Stoel Ge Wap eee ee ee ec aa
when regarded merely as places of punishment, are very expen- Ibis our joy and rejoicing to witness their reformation. We also
sive arrangements, and of doubtful utility. cheerfully bear testimony that but very few of those we select
Wo might Mlnsteate the power Of Kindness in many way 19 Ui ‘fomths hundreds who call upon we for ‘counsel, advice and pecu-
he taining of shldron wo oan retort om » guar role, 1:6 UE sary ad ace agnin Gheed ori oh ee ee
Comrng arson censlondsy ane oid Crombie Tra: bette weoee Ih we obliged, however, to ackuowladge ome willie! exceptions
Ahan to tho employmentof the rod. Ishns been foun, too,thatin, TE hig Tats within the let ope err ete iapeeeed wi
Levees fee hi fore
The f*
[Assramy
jary means have been at times Tite-
most cases, because or peouniary means hi
rally nothing, and for that reason we have not been able to afford
them subsistence until we could find employment for them.
‘The following figures wo abstract from the suramary of the Tast
two years! labors in this department, ending Dec. $1, 1850;
gS
Pa
aed
S
;
;
i
4
iM
a
ty a
a rd
Zelected from our diaries, are submitted os
yn which our efforts are based,
‘The selections are made from
‘The sabjoined cases,
an oxposition of the principles oF
and of our plan of operations.
hundreds of others of equal interest.
EXTRACTS FROM THE DIARY OF DISCHARGED CONVICTS.
No. 1. Was convicted of grand larceny, and sentenced to stato
‘He solemnly pro
ison for two years. He left in —— last.
E ei He calls now to
feats he was not guilty of the alloged larceny. l
tay, that when hee fom gnvers pein be to do alittle work,
Dut chronic rhonmatism prevents him from earning a living. His
friends folt anxious an effort should be made to secure some small
Dpusiness on his own account he asks us to write se Cas lass
liciting the co-operation of those especially who know him. We
aaaervod with the request and contributed towards sch object
Wo wore glad subsequently to learn it was @ successful step.
No. % Calls on the Association, after spending two months in
tho ponitontiary, for an alleged assault and battery. Bad com
pany and bad liquor was the cause. He says it is too bad
company with those of the baser sort. He
He thinks there should be
{thorities ; persons for
tbe confined in the
should
place decont men in :
had no idea of the prison life before
more discrimination on the part of the aut
assault, and assault and battery, aught not to
same prison with dishonest characters; and the treatmont
\B5y- 58
No. 185.)
be humane and not degrading.
temporary aid.
No. 8, Convicted of grand larceny, and sentenced for one year
to the penitentiary, calls to-day almost perished with cold, regret-
ting his past wicked conduct, and promising to live honestly in
the future. The Association furnished him with more suitable
clothing, and provided employment for him.
No. 4. Was sentenced to state prison, at Charlestown, Massa-
chusctts, for two yoars and six months, for grand larceny. He
says this was his first offense; he was once punished by solitary
confinement in a dark cell, without bed or supper, for writing a
note to a fellow prisoner—such being contrary to tho discipline.
‘He says further, that corporal punishment or the shower bath, ie
sindiously avoided, except in very obstinate cases. The disci-
pline is of a mild character, and no punishment is inflicted, but
with the knowledge and almost uniformly in the prosonee of the
warden, The food is sufficient in quantity, but not as good in
quality as I think it was when I first wont. The bed is of straw,
and the pillow also each man has sufficient bedding; the sheet,
and pillow case is changed every week. There is a good library
of books; one is given ont, or changed for others, every Saturday.
The chaplain writes all letters for the prisoners. ‘There is a relig-
ous service every morning in the chapel, singing, reading and
prayer; theso exercises occupy from twenty to thirty minutes.
This short service is a considerable relief, and of great moral
advantage to the inmates. I feel, he says, grateful that T am out
of prison, and I trust the grace of God will enable me to resist
temptation, and that my future life will be consecrated to Him
and His service. We were enabled to procure him employment.
He has often called upon us since, and is now doing well
No. 5. Had been in the penitentiary four months ; he calls, ask-
ing advice and help; the last few months have been tho most
wretched of his life. He promises to keep out of bad company.
We regard this case as very hopeful. The Association furnished
him with suitable clothing, found him employment, gave hima bible,
and urged him to read it.
No. 6. Called, out of situation, and said what to do he knew not;
he had been discharged from prison threo months, since which he
has had but nine days’ work; he was forced to leave his boarding
house yesterday, and has had nothing to cat since. ‘Temporary
assistance was rendered him until work was provided.
No. 7. Left Sing Sing prison three months since, He was con-
53
‘The Association rendered him
54 [Assume
vioted of burglary in the third degreo, and sentenced for two
years. He says drink produced all bis troubles. He was turnod
out ofa liquor store, half drunk, lato at night, broke into the same
store, was detected and punished. To avoid other difficulties, he
‘vows he will never touch, taste or handle strong driuk again. Ho
says his wife is alck, and their distress is very great. ‘The Asso-
ciation Ient them various sums to alleviate their pressing neces:
sities, and soon provided him work, when he returned the money
Joaned. He is now sober, industrious, and doing as well as most
rking men. 7
wee teem in cho eiy prison for sovera wouks amoitng
trial, om charge of attempt at burglary. The grand jury dismis
fed the complainant, and ho was discharged ‘The Associntion
advanced him a trifling sum which evabled him toreach bis frionds
in the country. .
in Nob. Was six months in the penitentiary, om charge of pti
larceny ; he ays ho should not have found fault had be been
guilly, but he was not. He was advised in fntnre, to avoid every
appearance of evil. He promisod this. We supplied his tempo.
rary wants.
orto. Cala and says ho ie just from the Island; the three
ronths there he hopes will never be forgotten, “He ean got not
ing to do; bad he the means to reash Orange county, he eould
got permanent work with his brother. ‘The Association improve
his appearance, and enabled him to reach the place designated.
No. 11. Says be received some pecuniary assistance three years
since, when ho loft Sing Sing prison, after being thore two years
on a chargo of forgory. Ho reprosents that ho is now out of
employment, and wanting the commonest necessaries of life.
imamediato wants were supplied, when ho was ining’ to amen:
er of the Association, who gave him employment.
» ne 2 saya bs all Bol raisfel to the Ascociation eoald ther
provide him place of work. Ho had been six months on the
Island, and would never get there again. “He was supplied with
a pair of new boots, drawors, shirts socks, hat, and a trifle
money. Work was speedily found him. He has often called to
nk the Association,
pve 1g was convicted of grond larceny, on Ber own cousin
and sentenced to Sing Sing ptison for two years and three months
She had lived with a respectable family. On one occasion. she
‘was invited to a ball. ‘The daughter of the lady with whom she liv 3
was from home, when she took from a drawer a broach, mere
\s5y. st
No. 185.)
to wonr to this gathering. On her roturn home, after midnight,
her cousin insisted on having said broach, and playfully took it
with him. Before it could be restored it was micsed. ‘The girl
left the house, and repaired to the house of her cousin, but he was
at his employment. On her way thither an officer pursued and
arrested her. She told her story with truthfulness and without
prevarication. The cotisin was found. He admitted having the
article; was arrested, and subsequently discharged.
‘This poor gitl called at the office, with a letter of recommenda-
tion from the matron and chaplain. A situation was immediately
found for her with a family connected with the Association. She
is doing very well.
No. 14 says he was sent to the penitentiary without causo; the
Justice was influenced by the complainant, who was manifestly
prejadiced against him, ‘He begs the Association to furnish him
with clothes and a trifle of money, to enable -him to reach West-
chester county, The caso’ was regarded as vory hopeful. We
gave him a shirt, hat, boots, and a trifle, which enabled him to ap-
pear pretty decent amongst his friends,
No. 15, convicted of grand larceny, and sentenced to the Stato
prison for three years, calls at our office, when released, and says
he shall feel very thankful conld means be devised to send him
away ona farm. A minister, interested in his behalf, also calle
representing that it would be a favor conferred on the family, and
especially on the young man, to procure him such a place,
Providence appeared just then to open the way for the Associa-
tion to comply with the request made without delay. Such a dis.
position of him was effected. We have since heard he is doing
well.
No. 16 calls to present his grateful acknowledgments to the As-
sociation for the interest shown in his behalf when arraigned in
court on charge of grand larceny. He was sent to the penitentiary
for six months, and but for our timely interposition he might now
be in Sing Sing. He promises to show his thanks by the honesty
fhislife. ‘The Association took him by the hand, and helped him.
No. 17 was convicted of grand larceny, and sentenced to Sing
Sing prison for two years. He says he was used well in prison
ty his keeper; came out three months since; went to ,
hoping to obtain permanent, employ, tut was doomed to disap-
Poiniment; had no opportunity to return to New York; he finds
himself in want; he was introduced toa kind-hearted man, who
gave him work. :
56 [Assrstmy
‘he Association lent him twenty shillings to pay one week's
poard, and supplied him with overalls, &e. He isnow doing well.
‘No. 18 was charged with an attempt at grand larceny. The
authorities were convinced that he had labored under some hallu-
ination, produced by drinking a quantity of brandy, to which ho
was unaccustomed. Judgment was suspended, and he was dis-
charged. ‘The Association advanced him a sum sufficient to
‘carry himm home to his friends, for which he expressed his hearty
‘thanks, ;
‘Some timo subsequent to his release from prison, the following
Jottor was addressed to the Association:
‘Dear sir—To you I feel so sensibly indebted, I know not how
to express my thanks for the kind interest you have taken in my
unfortunate son. You have not only saved him from ruin, but
spared the feelings of an affectionate mother. To your mind, this
will be a reward, I trust he will return to that position im s0-
ciety I once hoped to se> him adorn, My recollections of him will
fever be accompanied by my prayers for your health and heppi-
‘ness, and with feelings of sincere gratitude,
I remain, yours, truly obliged,
No, 19 was tried and convicted of grand larceny, and sentenced
to State prison for three years and six months. He says: “My
employer charged me with stoaling from him $100 in money, and
gold watch and chain. Most solemnly do I declare I never had
the money he says he lost. Tbelieve he did not own a gold watch
‘at the timo, Tserved out the whole term of my sentence; was
once showered. I hope I shall avoid such trouble in the futero.
My object in calling upon the Association is to procure employ
ment, I wrote to you (with permission of the Inspectors), some
weeks since. If you will but procure me work, I promise to livea
sober, honest, industrious life.”
‘Work was found him ona farm, ‘The Association furnished him
with suitable clothing, a bible, and money sufficient to pay for his
ticket. We have had a good account of him.
‘No. 20 had been confined three months in the county jail, on
‘charge of petit larcony. He had heard of the Association when
there, and resolved to call and confor with its agent. He sayshe
was not guilty of the alleged petty theft. Ho wishes to know
could he obtain damages for false imprisonment. Fe was advised
to abandon the idea altogether. It was best for him diligently to
apply himself to honest industry, to avoid bad associations, and
‘at once to acquire better habits, and become a better man, The
jeep $F
RBS |
No, 185.] 3T
Association was enabled to send him into the’ country, where he
s doing well.
No. 21. Had been in the penitentiary the last six months, on
charge of stealing a coat ; he left yesterday.’ He says: My father
and mother died when T'was very young; since then I have had
no one to caro for me. I learned no trade, and have been sadly
put to it; my days have been evil and bitter; often hungry, no
frome, no school, no hope. My life has been a miserable one; but
fow kind words were over spoken to mo, s0 that often I cared but,
little what would become of me, or how things went. I was sent
often to the pemitenitiary for petit lareeny. I did not steal from
choice, but, as I thought, from dire necessity. When I left the
prison yesterday, I felt as though I should like to avoid going
there again; Thence came to you. Please find me some work that
Tmay be driven to steal no more, I feel that I would rather go
into a workhouse than be dishonest. We advised him to leave
New York; he went to another State, where he met with employ-
ment, and a humane employer. We hope he may do better, but
our hope is not unmixed with fear.
No. 22. Had been in prison awaiting his trial, on charge of
grand Iareeny, The witness could not be found; after being fa
custody for sixteen weeks, he was discharged. ‘The Association
improved his miserable condition. We were out of clothes at the
‘ime, but a member of the Association kindly sent us, for his use,
asuit of clothes, when a situation was obtained for him he appeared
thankful, and promised to do well.
No. 23, Was convicted of burglary in the third degree, and
sentenced to Sing Sing for three years. He says: I was used
pretty well. T have no desire to find fault’ with the prison or the
oficers. I was guilty of the offense, and it was not the first, and
T deserved all I suffered. Ihad bed companions, and my habits
were wrong and strong. On my discharge, after serving out the
whole term, I repaired to the home of my mother. I found her
sick, and in great poverty. My poor father had lived a life of
intemperance; he now reaps what he had been sowing for years ;
he hindered the family seriously. ‘The authorities sent him to
the Island. Iam now a burden to her; she is now in deep pov-
erty, and that makes me very unhappy. Do pray got me some
work, and I promise to live a life of honesty. He was provided
with work, where he performed his part well.
No. 24. Was tried, and convicted of stealing @ gold watch, and
$100 in money, atid sentenced to Sing Sing for five years. He
38 [Asseunty
says ho was not guilty; his unfortunate wife committed the theft,
of which he had no knowledge until after his arrest, To avoid
bringing hor into a similar predicament, he carried the whole of
the burden himself, and suffered the punishment. He received
four dollars when ho left the prison. Ho now calls on the Asso.
ciation to provide employment for him away in the country, where
there is no danger of his being spotted, and where he could fesl
safe and happy. We were enabled to comply with his requ:
he has since shipped and gone to the coast of Africa
‘No. 25. Had spont four years and nine months in State prison,
on charge of grand lareeny, he says: This was-my first offense,
and T hope it will prove to be my last. left the prison Satur
day; L want work, and was advised to call on tho Association
Please get mo any sort of work by which T can earn an honest
Hiving, and you shall see that Iam an honest, upright man. He
was not in the office five minutes when a situation was offered
him, which he gratefully accepted. He is now at work, cheerful
and hopeful, looking forward to the time when the blot on his
character shall disappear.
No. 26, Was charged witb grand larceny. She had been help
in many respectable families ; on this oceasion, she had founds
‘snin of money secreted in the house; the same sho had stolen
was arrestod, and sentenced to Sing Sing for two years and nine
months; she left to-day. She eaid this was her first offense ; her
object in calling at our office was to socure a place; she promised
never to commit another dishonest act. She reccived three dol-
Jars and forty conts when she Jeft; we sent her to the house of @
friend; a sitnation was obtained for her within two days. We
lent her a trifle to obtain necossary garments, and have strong hope
concerning her, that she will not be guilty ofa repetition of wrong:
‘No. 27, Was tried and convicted of grand larceny, and sem
tenced to state prison for three years in 1854. I served out
every hour of my sentence. I was sixteen years old whon sem
fenced. He says: J trust the time Ihave spent in prison will
not be wholly lost, About two years since, my mind and feelings
experienced a great change. This was prodnod, I think, by
reading Baxter's Saint's Rest ; from that timo, I trust. have some
serious concern for my soul's ealvation, From that time, I havo
acquired moral strength, and I purpose, the Lord being my keeyen,
to cleave to Him with purpose of heart. I beg the Association
to find some employment for me. This interesting young mn
goon obtained employment, and unto this date is doing well.
No 28 Had spent one yoar in tho ponitontiary, on charge of
{B87 5F
No. 185.] 59
stealing. He calls on the Association, and says ho served out his
term; he comes out without home, monoy or friends. Tio bas an
offr of constant work, witha respectable merchant in. —, could
fo reach that city. We obtained for him a free passage, and sup-
plied him with suitable clothing, and a trifle to sustain him for a
fow days there. Ho appeared to fecl very grateful for the aid
and assistance rendered him by the Association.
0. 29 was convicted, on his own confession, of burglary in tho
third’ dogreo, and sontenced to Sing Sing prison for three y
and ten months. ieee
He says: I served out the whole torm. I do not think that
ponishments produce roformation. I hope and believe that my
nnind haa been more healthily employed the last two years then
tofore, have read and thought more than I used to do. now
honestly desire, and fervently pray, the great Teacher will daily
give mo more strength, and a willing heart, that I may fear and
love Him, I bumbly hope to be kept in the right path, and that
Ishall be finally saved.
‘We were instramontal in sonding him away in the country,
here we know he is doing well. :
The Association regards this case as one of unusual interest,
sud are delighted with the result thus far. i
No, 80 had been in the penitentiary the last three months for
an alleged assault and battery.
Heo says he went to the theater; took three glasses of liquor
saw double; felt ugly; struck an officer ; was arrested and sent
up. Forgive me this once; I will do a0 no more.
“The Association enabled him to reach the residence of hia
friends by steamboat, He appeared to feel very thankful for the
timely aid afforded him.
No. 81 was arraigned in court of General Sessions, on an indict-
nent for felonious assault and battery with intent to Kill, He
vvas tried, convicted, and sentenced to Sing Sing for five years.
_ Ho says: T wos a seaman all my life, and camo from Liverpool
The quarrel botween me and the complainant began ten yoara
since, Wo had not met since, until on this oceasion, when the old
felings, so long smothered, again revived. ‘The conilict was cer-
tainly a rough one, We were both terribly punished. It is woll
we did not kill each other. I have no fault to find with the prison,
Lam not in love with it, rely on my word. I shall try hard to
avoid it in future.
He was in@uenced by the Association to visit Rev. Chas, Jones,
60 [Assexeur
of the Mariner's chureh, who kindly introduced him to a decent
boarding house, where no liquor is kept or sold. Previous to his
leaving us, we administered to him the temperance pledge, Ox
the following day he visited the Association again, and under te
influence of very excited and ugly feelings.
the person who had charge of his clothing, most of which had been
stolen, He threatened to kill the man by whom he had been rob-
bed, wherever he met him. We found it difficult to divert hin
from his purpose. ‘The next day he comes to see us again, and,
as he says, a very different and altered man. At a prayer meet
ing last night, it seemed to him as though the Almighty had coms
‘down and cut him up fore and aft. For the first time in his life
he felt afraid of the black book, death and hell, He wept as he
never wept before, After this, he felt all was peace. He now
forgave every one. He hoped. never to forget the change. Wo
got him shipped. He is doing well. ;
No, 32 was convicted of grand larceny, on her own confession,
and sontenced for two years to Sing Sing prison.
‘She says: This was my first offense. ‘There is, I feel, one ad
vantange to be derived from confinement in a prison. We hare
time to think, to contrast the past with tho present, and whilst
we are forced away from our old companions and bad habits, we
may, if led and strengthened by good moral influences, purpote
to do well in the future. I cannot say that I am changed by 1
Jigious principles; yet I think I have undergone some sort of
shange for the better.
oniThe Association provided her « situation, whore she secured the
approval ofthe entire family. Her conduct was unobjeotionable
‘No, 83 had spont two years in the State prison, for an alleged
grand larceny. He worked in the file shop; was not showored or
Punished for bad conduct whilst there; he tried to behave well
‘and this job was easy, as there was no rum to be had. But for
Tiquor he never would have beon sent to prison. He says the
saate was more in fault than himself, ‘They came into port on
‘Muesday at noon. Some of the passengers went on shore, leaving
their baggage in the cabins. Daring the evening I saw the mate
examining a small trunk, at the same time taking out several
small articles; a few of the least value he gavo to me. On the
following morning there was a great noise about the missing pro
perty, when the mate handed me $10 to leave the ship. T was ar
ested in Water street, and subsequently tried and punished.
The Association introduced him to a gentleman who procured
him a ship.
\35 1-53
No, 84, from the penitentiary, says threo months there has
taught him something. He thinks he shall nover respect himself
again. He feels there is about a prison that which degrades a
man. It was my first visit; I swear it shall be the last.
‘The Association provided him with work.
No. 36 was convicted of grand larceny, and sentenced for three
months to the penitentiary. He says: Could my poor mother
have seen me there inn convict’s dress, sworn at, cowhided and
in every way disgraced, she would have almost wept blood.
The Association sent him to work in the country.
No. 185.] a
No. 36 calls on the Association, expressing a strong desire to
reach his friends, 150 miles in the country. He says he somo time
since Jost his wife; he was very much distressed in mind, and
sought solace in the bottle, Under its influence he was charged
with stoaling @ watch from a man sleeping in tho same room he
had ocoupied. ‘The watch was found upon him, He has tried to
excuse himself sinee, that he was drunk and scarecely responsiblo
fr his conduct. Ho now regrots the cause and its effects, pro-
nising to abstain from their uso absolutely and altogether.
The Association were enabled to get him a free passage home.
No. 87 was an inmate of the State prison two years and six
wonths, for an alleged grand Jarceny. He says the complainant
and himself were on terms of great intimacy. ‘Tho attempt was
ofa very trifling character. ‘The court was unnecessarily severe,
and especially as his old friend had no desire to see him punished.
He applies to the Association, asking them to assist him to
wach Fall river. ‘This we accomplished.
No. 8 and 39 were each convicted of grand larceny, stealing
clothing valued at $30, and sentenced to Sing Sing prison for two
years, They served out tho term, and secured the approbation
of the matron and officers of the prison.
‘The one calls on the Association to say that she shall feel unfoign-
edly thankful for the loan of a few dollars, to enable her to buy a
stoye and other little articles, that she and her friend may com-
mence house-keeping. She has two little boys in the Nursery,
‘and cannot now live (as she says) without them,
‘The Association rendered them as much pecuniary aid as thoir
resources would admit, Their conduct since their releaso has
been uniformly good.
No, 39 was omployed by a family to do a day's washing, a few
Weeks since, In the act of walking down a flight of basemont
6a [Asseapuy
stairs backwards, with a kettle of boiling water, fell, drawing it
after her. She was so seriously scalded as to render it necessary
Yo convey hor to the hospital. After great suffering for three
weeks, she expired.
No. 40 was aided by the Association somo months since. He
calls this morning to say he is now on board ship; that he has re
formed, and especially under the christain influence of Rov. C. J
Jones, since which he has paid most of his old debts, and will pay
the Association what they kindly lent him. He says he felt it his
duty to call and say this much.
No, 41. Was discharged from prison in June, 1862, after spend
ing two years ona charge of burglary in the third degrec, He
has since married, and has a family of two children. On the
whole, he has much to be grateful for. He is a stone cutter by
trade, but now out of employment; he has crawled along until ow
—want drives, or he would not be here to-day. His family noed
food, and he knew of none 80 likely to help him as the Associs-
tion, We expressed our utter inability to holp him, as his ci
cumstances required. He felt as though he had some strong
claim on us; the State having placed at our disposal, as he had
eon led to believe, a large fund for the relief of discharged convicts.
+ We found it a difficult task to remove this erroneons impression
‘Phe Association advanced him several small sums to keep his
family from threatened starvation, until business improved.
No. 42. Was convieted, on his own confession, of grand larceny,
and sentenced to Sing Sing prison two years. He says ho was
seventeen years old when arrested; this was my first offense, and
should not have committed this, but that the complainant induced
ime to drink three glasses of brandy with him, He requested me
to fotch him a bottle of brandy, and desired me to take a gold
dollar from his pants that wore hanging up. T found there a hand
fal of gold coin, and helped myself; was arrested, helplessly drunk,
next morning, with a portion of the money in my possession. We
both lived in the samo house, and boarded together. I regret
the past, and hope to do better. ‘The Association provided him
with employment.
No. 43. Had boon tried and convicted of petit larceny, and
sentenced by the court of special sessions for six months to the
Penitentiary. Whon taken back to the Tombs, provious to the
arrival of the (Maria) conveyance, she expressed her surprise at
the decision and verdict of the court, but she evinced great apxi
ety that she should Jose her furniture, worth, as she represented,
5- 5%
No. 185.) ye) 63
af least $200; as there was no one being loft to take care of ‘its
‘Sho begged the matron to befriend her, and to take charge of it;
at this moment, the runner or messenger of the prison appeared;
and offered to see to her goods, and fetch them to the matron.
Iwas deomed most, prudent to pormit her to go to her home, in
the custody of an officer of the establishment, that she might
sapervise the packing of said furniture, &e. On the following
y she was sent to the penitentiary, but with her mind much
relieved, believing her furniture would be safe in tho earo of the
matron, On her release from prison, after the expiration of her
senteneo, she applied to the matron for her property, but it was
not there; the messenger had failed to convey it hither. He was
eon, but denied having it. Under these circumstances, she was
recommended to call ‘on the Association. ‘The case was brought
before justice Welsh, and a search warrant was placed in the
hands of an officer, and the furniture removed to a room adjoin-
ing the police court. Witnesses testified to such facts as induced
the judge to order the furniture to be given up to the complain-
ant, and the defendant to be held to answer in bonds of $500.
This caso was taken by counsel before one of the judges of the
suprome court, who granted writ of certiorari, returnable before
tho city judge. His Honor heard the case at the Chambers, and
rendered the following decision
Ihave examined all the affidavits and warrant issued against
the within named Edward Smith, for grand lareeny, and find that
10 legal offense has been committed by him; the most that can be:
seid is, that it is a private fraud, and as such, is not an indictable
afiense, I therefore direct that tho said Edward Smith be dis-
charged from said complaint, and his recognizance, if any, be
caneolled. USSELL.
New York, Feb. 13, 1858. Att 4H
Although the Assoointion was not successful in returnihg the
whole of the property belonging to this unfortunate woman,it was
‘nstrumental in preventing a wholesale private fraud, as ho was
compelled to give up that portion of the furniture found in his
possession, and which had beon so surreptitiously obtained.
‘The woman expressed her warmest thanks for the interest
shown by the Association in her behalf.
‘This same messenger was detected by the Association, through
its agent, in extorting $40 from a prisoner, under the promise of
Providing im bail, and socuring his discharge. The district
sttorney was consulted, and there being an indisposition on the
64 [Asses
part of the prisoner and his wife to appear against bim, it was
docmod advisable to regard it as a private fraud,
‘No, 44. Had spent six months in the penitentiary for an alleged
assault and battery, on complaint of his He says he h
Deen married to her for thirteen years; the first eleven years were
passed pretty comfortable, but not so the last two years. She
had a son by a former husband, and he was unsteady. At length
he went ona whaling voyage, She looked for his return with great
delight, He did return, and was weleomed to ourhome and hearts,
Ho told his mother one of the owners was from home, and conse
‘quently his wages could not be paid then, that he would be paid
off onshis going back to New Bedford. After staying with us two
weeks, he left us for the avowed purpose of going for the money
due him, which was $350, That eum he promised to loan to us
to commence a small business. We expected him to return within
fa fow days, but wo saw him no more. Several letters were writ
ton him, and the only intelligence sent us was, that he had received
his pay and had left. His mother was nigh broken-hearted; she
‘sought eolace in the bottle, and became a sot; and whilst I wat
in the penitentiary, she died drunk, When I was released, I
repaired to my home, and nearly every article of furniture had
‘been sold by my two little boys, who managed to live on the pro
ceeds, When all was gone, and they were in want, the younger
was sont to Randall's Island. My elder boy was out of employment.
‘We aro today without bread or means to procure it, The Asso
ciation rendered him assistance until he obtained employment.
No. 45 calls, on his discharge from Sing Sing prison, after ser¥-
ing out a sentonce,of two years. He says, one night, after going
to the theater, he, accompanied by two other youths, wont to 3
@rinking saloon, During the night thoy were all arrested on
charge of burglary ; twenty-four botiles of champaigne, a fow cigars
and two pistols had been stolen. ‘They were tried and convicted
of burglary in the third degree, and sentenced, the younger to the
House of Refuge, the elder to State prison for two years and three
months, and myself for two years. He worked in the file shop.
He says he feels very sorry for his past conduct. His father
and mother died whilst he was in prison. He has no doubt but his
vices and crimes broke his poor mother’s heart, and the grey hairs
of his suffering father were brought with sorrow to the grave.
Ho sooms penitent. for the past, and resolutely determined to
avoid every evil way, and especially the theater, drinking saloons
and bad company.
351-58
No. 185.] 65
‘The history of this poor erring boy, and the mental anguish of
his whole family—the result of his wandering from the right path
_-were familiar to the Association.
We have the greatest confidenco in this youth’s determination
to do well. Ho soon obtained a sitnation, and now conducts him.
solf with uniform propriety; but a vivid sonse of his past faults,
and their consequences to his family, are eating, like a canker, at
his heart's core; hence he cannot live out half his days, Poor
youth, may his end be peace.
No. 46 was convicted of burglary in the third dogroo, and sen-
tonced to Sing Sing prison for three years.
He says he was born in Brooklyn his mother died when he was
young; he had no one to care for him then; he became wild and
reckless; he loft Now York with the intention of going on a
whaling voyago; in Sag Harbor he was found drunk; under its
influence they say the burglary was committed.
“When I left the prison this morning, with six dollars and
cighty cents to begin the world enew, I resolved to come without
delay to the office of the Association; hoping you will provide me
employment. I was induced, threo months since, to give my heart
to God. To-day I still purposo, by the divine blessing, to abstain
from the very appearance of evil. At once, if the church will
accept me, I will present myself as a member, earnestly praying
that I may be enabled by the grace of God, to adorn the dootrine
of God, my Savior, in all things.”
This case we regarded with come hopes. He wasintroduced to
christian minister, and subsequently to employment, Hoisnow
doing well, and striving to be useful.
No. 47 says he left the penitentiary this morning, after being
there four months, on charge of stealing a ham. Want of work
drove him to great suffering; he was very hungry, and had asked
for food, “but no man gave unto him;” he stole the ham, and
would have taken an hundred just then.
‘The Association urged him to cease to do evil.
relieved, and he was sont into the country.
No. 48 was convicted of grand larceny, and sentenced, by the
recorder, to State prison for throe years.
He calls to-day on the Association, and says this was not his
first offence ; he had been a wicked, disorderly boy. His mother
died when ho was an infant, and his father was a drunkard. Some
People say there is no place like home, buthis was a very wretched
[Assembly, No. 185. 5
Hlis wanta were
66 [Assen
one.’ ‘Often was he driven to a rum hole, or-a theater, where he
could be kept warm and forget his miseries, He never went to
school ; he says he has learned more the last three years than he
‘ever learned in his whole life. When he was restored to liberty,
he hastened on to, where he obtained work until the 24th of
December last, when he-was discharged, the business being dull.
He calls now on the Association, and asks to be sent to Penn.
aylvanin, confidently believing ho can there obtain employment.
‘Through a kind friend he was sont on, as desired.
No. 49, on hor own confession, was convicted and sentenced to
Sing Sing prison for two years, on charge of grand larceny.
She says she could not at present return to her native tow
‘The matron advised her to throw herself on the sympathy and
protection of the Prison Association.
She was placed in a situation without delay, at $5 por montb.
There she behaved well; was sober, honest and industrious,
Her wages she kept until she possessed the means to reach her
home. ‘Tho Association wrote to her friends. They invited and
urged her return, promising her a hearty welcome.
No. 0 wns convicted of forgery in the fourth degree. Ho being
youth, and’ evidently inexperienced in erime, the Association
wrote to his former employers in a distant city. ‘They certified
to his good conduet whilst he was in their employ. ‘These letters
wore submitted to the court, which influenced the recorder to be
Ionient towards him. Instead of sending him to State prison, ho
‘was sent to the penitentiary for twelve months. ;
He calls on us now to present his sincere thanks for being in-
strumental in saving him from the brand of a Sing Sing convict,
and to say he hopes to avoid bad company in the future; then
shall he be able to look after his bost interests.
Wo advised his immediate return to his homo, to the residence
of his parents, and especially as thoy knew not of hi
He reluctantly, and yet thankfully, availed himsolfof a free passage,
after the Association had clothed him decently.
was to moet his mother.
‘No. 51,-0n his own confession, was convicted of grand larceny.
‘He was sentenced for two years to Sing Sing prison.
He says, up to this time he was regarded as a young man of
high moral tone, He had lent money to a man whom he believed
to be honest, but in the end he found, to his bitter experience,
that his hard earnings were all lost—he had cajoled him out of
the'sum he had lent. In a paroxysm of anger, he went and took
way. 53
No. 185.] Ci
some property which he believed to have been purchased with his, |
money, and for which he was punished. :
This young man was enabled, by the Association, to go west,
and is now doing wel
No. 52. Was convieted of burglary in the third degree, and.
sentenced to State prison for two years. ‘This young man calls
on the Association, after the expiration of his seatence, and aske
pecuniary aid, by which means he may be enabled to go south,
Ho is the son pious parents, members and officers of a christian,
church. He says if he had followed their counsels and examples,
I would have been well; but le despised remonstrance and:
reproof, and formed evil ascociations, which brought him to ruin.
He regrets the past, and pledges himself to avoid the firet step in
the wrong direction. ‘Tho Association advanced him the sum
required to onable him to reach tho place named. Tt is our hap-
piness to know that he is now doing well.
No. 58. Calls on the Association, and says: Lwas tried and
convicted of burglary in the third degree, and sentenced to state
prison for ten years. After being a prisoner nearly threo years,
the judge who tried mo was convinced of my innocence-—like «
just judge, ho immediately applied to the executive to pardon
me. “Iwas released, and although only an act of justice, I feel
Hiankfal to our good goverr. My object in calling, he says, om
the Association, is to bog of them, if it be possible, to send me on
to Massachusetts. He was introduced to the chairman of the
executive board, who happened at that moment to enter the office,
He was instrumental in sending him on at a reduced fare, and
which he himself paid, :
No, 54.,Was convicted of assault and battery, with intent to
do some hodily harm, and sentenced to Sing Sing for two years
and six months. I shall never forget that my sentence was a very
severo ono. Drink was the canso of this quarrel; my prosecutor
bused me most shamefully. Whether he struck me first 1 know
hot, but in the muse, I threw a pitcher at him. T think the pune
ishment inflicted by the court on me should have been divided
between us, that would most certainly. be fair play. He says I
now resolve to drink no more liquor; then I expect never to find
nyself in such a miserable plight again, The Association were
enabled to put this man to work, and he is now doing well.
No. 65. Was sentenced to stato prison for two years; he #0 cone
ducted himself there, as to securo the approval of all the officers,
He says he, was guilty of grand larceny, but that it was his frst
i 6 [Assemoer
offenbe ;-he seems sincere in his purposes, that it shall be the last.
Ho doubted. the truths of the bible until the last fifteon months ;
should nothingmore resalt from his being confined in @ prison,
he thinks his change of mind will more. than compensate for all
heshas suffered, and that was considerable. ‘The Association fur-
nished him with suitable garments, then sent him into the cou
try, and introduced him to employment.
‘No. 56. Was convicted of two burglaries, and sentenced to
state prison for twenty-one years. He served out every hour
of his sentence. He says he is a shoemaker by trade. On the
evening of these robberies, a man, an entire stranger, came into
his honse to get his boots temporarily repaired, and whilst I was
at work upon them, he talked of the difficulties of the laboring
poor, and the solfishnoss of the rich, until I was envious and nearly
crazy; being very poor at that time, the result of several losses
tand other circumstances. When the boots were repaired he put
‘them on, and then urged me to go out and take a drink, Icom.
Splied; we took coverel glasses. On our return, he said,
“going to raiso the wind;” he asked me to accompany him; we
“walked until twelve o'clock, when he showed me what he was
“about to do. I went with him, and we did the jobs ono
zafter the otber, but we wore arrested, tried and sontenced
“for twenty-one years. I was used tolrably well during the long
xterm of my severe punishment. ‘This was my first offense. Tam
“Lnow on my way to——, but my baggage is at the pier, and they
sLdomand of me $3.25 as freight, and I have not enough to pay
2 My poor, faithful wife has gone on; what shall I do. ‘The freight
agent was seen, and the circumstances partially told him, and he
kindly permitted him to take away his baggage, ‘The Asso
red him some peouniary help, and he went on his
way, not rejoicing, (for he never will rejoice .again,) but thank-
fal that he had found a friend in his need. ‘The poor follow ean-
not last long,
No, 57. Aged seventeen, was sentenced to the state prison, on
charge of grand lareeny, for two years and three months. He
behaved well, and escaped extra punishment. Ho says had he
remained in Germany, ho must have served in the army, and
‘and that. to him was most horrible. And then ho had heard of
the great prosperity of this country, “that gold grew thick on
every tree,” that labor was abundant, &¢. His friends enabled
him to pay his passage. When he arrived, (a friend from his
native town camo with him,) they possessed but $4.00 each to
B
i
No, 185.] | Ls
ta
begin the wea Some decent looking. rd
on their arrival, and offered to condict them to 4
After boing there three days, their money was alfa
a good stock of clothes. in their chests, they ws itted te
rewwain the next. four deys, when they were taccreaein gee
out but their trunks were kept as a so
‘They soon begen to be in want his friend was taken sick and
Tune to Bslovuo, Iwas desperately put to it; under this
few a watch hanging up ina liquor store, and my necesntns
trged me to take it. I yialded tothe temptation, San seek
snd punished. T hope never t0 be in euch distrese again, fr no
ne knows what he would do when in auch a condition, without
one, money or friends. The Association deeply aympathived
with this youth ; all the circumstances ayere known to them. Ii
story was true to the letter. Employment was provided for bi,
tnd he is now doing well; we havea confident hope ho eaten
a 3 we have a confident. hope he wi
lve to be rospected, and become respectable. is
No. 68 was tried and convicted of assault, i
convicted of sissault and battery with in-
tent to itl, and sontonced to Sing Sing for seven years. en
in ae, Norked in shook shop whilst there. His hand was caught
n tho machinery, two of his Qngers and a portion of his thurab
‘nd hand were torn off and he disabled for ie,
fe calls here to-day and says he received a severe puni
received a severe punishm
for the offense; but for strong drink it uever could have ra
Penedl. | At a liquor store he and several others quarrelled; from
words they went to blows, when he found himeelf on the ground
oF floor, and two men whipping lim. Ife drow out his kaife and
Fu ou of them, for which he was punished for seven long yeurs
fe comes out to-day, after a long captivity, with $4, a
‘and almost raised man. ie anes
_Uhe Association labored industriously to find him work, but
were ancuccessful, he being erippled in the hand. A trifle of
money was advanced him, and subsequontly a bund cart was fore
‘ied him, He is mow peddling and doing comfortably. Hp
often calls to show himself, and expreas hie
what has been done for him ” are
No. 59, when fifteen years of a in this
, ars of age, and in this country but a fow
Woeks, a stranger to the Hnglish language, was induced by ono of
bis own countrymen to leave the work in which he was then eq. |
Saged, and go to live with him, on promise of doing better for
tia, He accompanied this bad fellow to commit », burglary.
‘They were doth taken, tried and sentenced to Sing Sing prison
"|
[Assenmr
the ElggBawRcieven years, and the bo} ltitahears and six
mmorti@tibAgesl Joeing there nine years and four months the latter
sve pardone’" He now bas employment, and ishard at work and
joing well.
done Go wwarchorged with grand larcony. When arraigned she
‘could nev speak English, and was advised to plead guilty, not
Knows the consequence of such a plea. ‘The simple artlessness
of ais Young woman, with an infant in her arms, excited the sym-
pathy of all who saw her. ‘The judge had no alternative but to
sentence her to Sing Sing prison for two years.
‘After she had been consigned to prison, some doubts arose in
the minds of several persons connected with the court, of her
guilt. All the facts were collected and submitted to the Gove
nor. Subsequently the Distriot Attorney wrote a strong létter in
her behalf, which reflected credit to his head and heart. When
the application was again urged, Executive clemeney was bestowed
upon her.
"Bho called on the dissociation, with many leern-miptessing hed
unfeigned thanks to those friends who had thought of her and
procured her restoration to liberty. ‘The Association wrote to her
husband, who was at a remote distance from this city, informing
him of the pardon. . He sent $30, praying she might be sent on to
him.
Her child, aged sixteen months, taken from her when she was
sontenced, and sent to Mrs. Callack, (to be nursed), by the ten
governors, we ascertained died of consumption. ‘This was asad
blow to this sufferings woman; her mental anguish was apparently
insupportable.
‘The Association were enabled to collect her furniture together,
which was sent on aftor her. She left New York and regained
her husband. We trust she may recover her health and cheeyful-
ness, but fear concerning her.
No. 61 was convicted of receiving stolen goods.
She was born in Ireland; came to this country; married a very
intemperate man, a tailor. ‘This foolish step induced all her far
ily to discard her. She says her husband’s intemperate habits
Drought on an incurable discase, Whilst he was in the hospital,
his sister called in one dey with a basket, and requested to leave
it with her for a few days. She had taken its contents out and
placed them ina drawer. When.she went to market she used the
basket, which was recognized by gentleman. An officer was
called; she refused to tell how it came into her possession ; her
No. 185.]
place was sedrohed, and the clothing found and identified: by: the
person now her prosecutor. "
After spending two years in Sing Sing, she cal!’ on the Assock-
ation, A situation was soon provided for her, where she is doing
well. The family think highly of her, and have increased her
Her husband and two of her children died whilst sho was in
prison,
No. 62 was convicted of burglary in the third degree, and son-
tenced to Sing Sing prison for two years.
He says this was his first offense, He was ont of work and in
want, or he would not have done this wrong act. We advised
him, on his release, to leaveNew York. ‘The Association obtained
for him a free passage to ———, where we hear he is hard at
work and doing well, Two shirts and suitable working clothes
were furnished him,
No. 63 was tried and convicted of arson in the third degree,
and sentenced to Sing Sing prison for seven years, He served’
out the whole term,
Ho says: I was used pretty well, on the whole. I had hoped
to procure a pardon from the Executive, not only because the
Jury strongly recommended me to merey, but because I was not
guilty of the crime for whioh I was punished. Tam a married
man, and have one child, nine years old, I hope to see him to-
morrow. My wife, with whom I had lived for inore than three
years on terms of reciprocal affection, visited me but once while
Twas an inmate of the prison. I know nothing of her now. My
apprebensions are excited about her.
This poor unfortunate fellow felt disposed and determined to
return to his former place of residence, there to live and show
that he was not guilty of the alleged offense. Ho is now em
ployed, with-eheoring prospects for the future,
No. 64 calls on the Association, and asks the loan of $2, to en-
able him to reach the country, where he feels certain of getting
employment, and having relatives there, He left the penitentiary
this morning, after being confined three months, for an alleged as-
sault and battery. He says he came to New York to find work;
vent into a saloon to get a drink, where he was grossly insulted
hy a drunken man. He punisliod him for it; he richly desorved
tho whipping he received; “but,” he adds, “T think it best to
avoid all such places. I will ceaso to drink, and keep away from
saloons.” ‘The Association enabled him to reach the country,
[Assemmy
No: 65 was convicted, on his own confession, of an attempt of
grand larcony. ‘The complainant recommended him to the merey
‘of the court, and for these reasons : The stolen property had all
been restored; it was his first offense ; he had manifested great
penitence for the wrong done, and would, it was confidently
hoped, never be guilty of another dishonest act.
Tn this case the Association had shown an active intorest ; hence
ie was sentenced to the City prison for three months only.
“After bis release the following letter was received from him :
To the Agent of the Prison Association +
Dear sir—Allow me to address you a few lines respecting the
Jato unfortunate era of my life. You are aware that I wickedly
Jost sight of the commandment, “Thou shalt not steal,” and that
yielded to the temptation, and appropriated property of my em-
ployers to my own uso, for which offense I was justly committed
to prison, there to await trial on a charge of grand larceny, but
which, through their means, was so modified as to allow me to
plead to an attempt, for which I sincerely thanked thom. But to
you, my dear sir, are my heartfelt thanks due, for your untiring
‘exertions in my behalf, But for your efforts I should most pro-
‘pably have beon an inmate of the State prison, instead of being
allowed to breathe the yxy, pure, fresh air of heaven. Ob, how
many reasons have Ito be thankful to Him, “ from whom no secrets
are hid,” that in my utmost need he caused me to find in you such
a firm and steadfast friend!
But though free from prison, my punishment ia not yet over.
Tt is difficult at the present time even for those who have the best
‘of characters to procure situations. How much more diffieult for
the man who has just emerged from prison, a bankrupt, both i
character and reputation? Did but one-half of those on the verge
of crime, roflect and picture to their mind’s eye the ultimate com
sequences of such a false stop, there would, I think, be fewer eaa-
didates for our prisons, I trust by God’s help T have profited in
amore things than one by my indiseretion.
‘The only way I can show my gratitude for your past kindness,
js by a strong determination throughout my future life to do right
‘And now accept the thanks and blessings of myself, my wifo, my
child, and rest assured, that in our supplications to * the Most
High,” your name is not forgotten. May the blessings of God
rest upon you and yours, and prosper you in your noble work,
and grant that in your journey through life, you may enjoy more
happiness thon generally falls to the Jot of man, And when your
jasq-5%
No, 185.J 3
race is run, may You be gathered in peato to the bosom of Him
‘who eaid, “I was sick and ye visited me; I was in prison and yo
came unto me. Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least
of these, ye have done it unto mo,” is the sincere and fervent
prayer of
Deat Sir, gratefully yours,
No. 66. Was convicted of grand larceny, and sentenced to Sing
Sing for two years. After serving ont the whole term, she was
discharged, and under tite advice of the matron, she calls on the
Association, begging we would procure her a situation, Her
case was regarded as of a very hopeful character, and we assisted
her in procuring decent clothing, é&., and promptly provided her
a place with an excellent family. She is doing very well.
No. 67. Was arraigned in the court of general sessions, on
charge of grand larceny ; stealing thirty-five dollars. ‘The use of
strong drink had induced her to commit this lareeny, She refused
to plead; was tried and sontenced for three years to Sing Sing
prison, She calls at our office on her discharge, expressing her
sorrow for the past, and a determination to avoid the rock on
‘which she had so fatally wrecked. We obtained a place for her away
in the country, She is industrious and consistent, and will con-
tinue, to do well all the timo she abstains from drink,
No. 68. Calls on the Association to say ho was discharged from
Sing Sing prison in October Inst, since which he has worked ona
farm, ‘Three weeks since he was induced to come to New York.
Here he obtained work up to last Saturday, when some one told
his employer that he had been in Sing Sing prison, and ho was
paid off and discharged. We advised him to leave the city and
nover return; he adopted our advice, and we enabled him to
leave forthwith.
No. 69. Was arrosted in New York, and tried for grand 1
ceny, was convicted, and sentenced to Sing Sing prisom-for two
years. On his release, he calls on the Association, and says he is
a shoemaker by trade; his business was injurious to his health.
His wif sickened and died ; then all seemed to go wrong. He
vas unable to follow his trade; he gave it up and engaged to
work on a canal boat at twenty-two dollars per month. He
worked the seagon, five months, when ho was discharged. My
employer represented that he could not pay me all my wages, it
having been an unprofitable season, and he wished me to throw
off thirty dollars from the balance then due me, which was eighty-
five dollars, I refused, and commenced euit against him for ite
4 [Assen
recovery, He put it off again and again, and at’ longth it was
referred by the court toa referee. Tlost my wages. It drove
me to despair, and Idrauk myself nearly mad. In one of these
‘erazy fits, I jumped upon a saddled horse which had been fast.
ened to a post in the street, and drove away. T sold the horsext
the first place T reached, for sixty dollars, and spent the money
know not how. Twas soon detected and punished. ‘Trouble
Grove me to drink, and drink drove me to ruin and disgrace ; but
Tam not without hopo that it will wotk together for my good,
Sir, Lam an altered man; I have considered my ways. Tam now
sober, and by the help of God, will never touch the first drop of
maddening drink, He was ina very bad stato of health, and it
was deemed most practicable to secure him, at least for a short
time, admission to a hospital.
No. 70. Was convieted of grand lareeny, on her own confession,
and sentenced for two yoars to Sing Sing prison. She says:
“When I first went to live at this place, my character was very
good, and for several months it remained so, until T becams
Very familiarly acquainted with one in the house whoso habits
were very bad. Toon followed that example, and especially as
regards dress, and visiting those whose external appearance were
superior to my own. My wages were inadequate to gratify my
pride, hence T began to pilfer, and at length I was charged with
stealing a gold watch and chain from my employer, valued st
$150, a silk dross pattern, and several other articles, and 1 wos
arrested, when the whole of the articles were restored except the
gold watch
‘Phe uniform practice of the Association is to ascertain of the
acoused, immediately on their arrest, the whereabouts of the sto
Jen property, and, if possible, to influence its restoration, The
interrogatory was put to this poor gitl: Was not the watcl
restored? She replied, No. Didyoupledgeit? No, Didyou ium
way dispose of it? No. ‘Then you must now have it. She wep!
‘and replied, I know where it is; I wish I had never taken it;
Iwill never, no, never be guilty of such wickedness again. Ar?
you sincere? she said, with copious tears, Tam. Then fetcl
me that watch. She left our office axd soon returned with it
Tt was our pleasure, on thanksgiving day, to restore the complainant
his valuable gold watch. He appeared very much gratified, and
thanked us very heartily.
‘We thon suggested the propriety of making her some reward
for this evidence of her contrition and reformation, and urged
him, now that all bis property had been restored, that he meke
| No. 185.]
yusy- FF
ur
her some acknowledgment, and especially as such a step on his
pert, would encourage her in hor purposes to do better. He éon-
ceded that she should be eo rewarded, and promised to call. We
have, subsequent to this interview, sent him the watch key, with
afow ines reminding him of his engagement, but no reward as
yet reached this office.
We are glad to hear testimony to the oxcellent, character 6f
this young woman since her discharge from prison. She resides
with a family who aro acquainted with her case and degradation,
and who now delight to witness daily, her uniform, moral con-
duct. Her employers, when speaking of her, say, ** would to God
all our help everywhere were like her, except in her never to be for-
gotten and bitter experience of the past.” Her reformation we bo-
Tieveis, and will manifest itself to be, of a very permanent character.
‘The above cases exhibit the class and character of thcse per-
sons with whom we daily come in contact. Many discharged
prisoners from our State prisons, county jails, penitentiaries, and
yorious courts, come to us prostrated in character, mind, body
and estate, and all requiring advice, admonition and counsel, and
they apply to us, bungry aud almost naked, without friend or
home. With small means, well husbanded, we have done our best
to roliove the pressing necessities of the most abject of them.
We have given broad to the starving, and such garments as wero
font us by the kindness of friends, were cheerfully bestowed.
‘The greatest caution has been observed. We could not relieve
them all, and therefore we gave special attention to alleviating
the distressos of thoso whoso reformation wo had strong hopes of
effyoting. ‘The indolent aud apparently incorrigible, with the con-
firmed inebriate, have been sent empty away. As a fixed role,
we hold {mpomibie to help thote who onmnot or will nt help
themselves.
Your agent, in eoneluding his report, fools it to be his duty to
acknowledge that, the ever-watchful providence of Almighty God
has crowned the feeble efforts of the Association with astonishing
sccess, far beyond all expectation. It is our blessed privilege to
labor faithfully in this work; and while we are doiig the Lord a
service, what pleasure do wo ourselves experience in tho knowledge
of the fact that we have been, in His mercy, the humble instru-
nents of raising up so many miserable creatures who were cast
down, Let us then thank God and take courage.
With sentiments of high regard,
Tam, dear sir, yours respectfully,
ABRAHAM BEAL,
AN ACT
0 incorporate the Prison Association of New York, passed
May 9, 1846, by a (wo third vote.
The people of the State of New York, represented in Senate end
Assembly to enact as follows +
§ 1. Allsuch persons as now are and hereafter shall become mem
bers to the said Association, pursuant to the Constitution theres
shall and are hereby constituted a body corporate by the name of
“The Prison Association of New York,” and by that name have
the powers that by the third title of the eighteonth chapter of
the first part of the Revised Statutes, are declared to belong to
every corporation; and shall be,capable of purchasing, holding
and conveying any estate, real ‘or personal, for the use of said
corporation : Provided, such real estate shall never exceed the
yearly value of ten thousand dollars, nor be applied to ay
Purpose other than those for which this corporation is founded.
42. Tho estate and concerns of said corporation shall be max
aged and conducted by its executive committee, in conformity tn
‘the Constitution of the said corporation; and the followingarticls
that now form the Constitution of the Association shall continue
to be the fundamental laws and Constitution thereof, subject to
alteration in the mode therein prescribed.
Auricue L
‘Tho objects of the Association shall be,
1. The amelioration of the condition’ of prisoners, whether
detained for trial, or finally convicted, or as witnesses:
2. ‘The improvement of prison discipline, and the government
of prisons, whether for cities, or counties, or States:
8. The support and encouragement of reformed convicts after
their discharge, by affording them the means of obtaining an honest
livelihood, and sustaining them in their efforts at reform,
Annicue TI.
‘The officers of the society shall be, a president four vice-pros
dents, a recording secretary, a corresponding sceretary, and *
treasuror, and there shall be the following committees, viz: a
finance committee, a committee on detentions, a committeo on die
cipline, @ committee on discharged convicts, and an executive
Anrictx IT.
‘Tho officers named in the preceding article shall be ex officio
members of the executive committee, who shall choose one of theit
number to be chairman thereof,
No. 185,]
‘The executive committee shall meet once in each month, and
yoop regular minutes of their proceedings. ‘They shall have a
general superintendence and direction of the affairs of the society,
and shall annually report to the soviety all their proceedings, and
such other matters as shall be likely éo advance the ends of the
‘Association.
Anrioe V.
‘The society shall meet annually in the city of New York, at
such time and place as the executive committee shall appoint and
such other times as the president, or, in his absence, ono of the
vice-presidents, shall designate.
Anricos VL
Any person contributing annually to the fands of the Associa-
tion, shall, during such contribution, be a member thereof. A
contribution of five hundred dollars shall constitute a life patron;
contribution of one hundrod dollars an honorary saember of the
exeontive committee for life; and @ contribution of twenty.five
dollars shall. constitute a member of the Association for life.
Honorary and corresponding members may from timo to time be
appointed by the executive committee.
Annie VIL.
A female department shall be formed, consisting of such females
tschall be selected by the executive committee, who shall baxe
irge of the interest and welfare of prisoners of their sex, under
tuch regulations as the executive committee shall adopt.
‘Awrioue VIE.
The officers of the Assocation shall be chosen annually-at the
annual meeting, at which time such pervons may be elected hon-
erary members’ as shall have rendered essential service to the
cause of prison discipline.
Anriete IX.
Any socioty having the same objects in view may become auxil-
fury to this Association by contributing to its funds and codporat-
ing with it,
Agrrene X
‘Tho executivs committee shall have power to add to any of the
‘tanding committees such persons, as in their opinion, may be like-
Iyto promote tho objects of the society; and shall have power to
{il any vacaney which may occur in any of the offices of the Asso-
cation, intermediate the annual meetings.
Anricue XI.
This Constitution may be amended by a vote of the majority of
the society, at any meoting thoreof, provided notice of the amend-
‘ment has been given at the next preceding meeting,
"8 [Assay
The officers elected for the currant year under the Constituti
shall continue to be the officers thereof until others shall he duly
chosen in their places. ;
And it ie hereby further onacted, that no manager of wid
ciety shall receive any compensation for his services.
a work-house in the county of New York, and in their discretion
to receive and take into the work-house all suel persons as shall
‘be taken up and committed as vagrants or disorderly persous, in
said city, as tho court of general sessions, of the poace, or the
court of special sessions, or the court of oyer and terminer, in
said county, or any police magistrate, or the commissioner of the
almshouse, may deem proper objects; and the eaid executive com
mittee shall have the same powers to keep, detain, employ and
govern the snid persons, as are now by law conferred on the keep
era of the bridewoll or povitentiary in said
§4. The said executive committee may, from time to time, make
by-laws, ordinances and regulations, relative to the management
and disposition of the estate and concerns of said Association,
and the management, goverament, instruction, discipline, and
‘employment of the persons so as aforesaid committed to the said
workhouse, not contrery to lan as they may deem proper; and
may appoint sch officers, agents and servants, as they may deem
tecessnry, to tract the Business of the said. Asvociation, and
may desiguate their duties. And the said executive commmittes
shall make an annual report fo the Legislature, and to_ the cor
poration of the city of New York, of the number of persons
received by them into said work-house, the disposition which shall
be made of them by instrneting or employing them therein, ¢
receipts and expenditures of said executive committee, and gen2-
rally all auch facts and particulars as may exhibit the operations
of the said Association. .
§ 5. The said executive committee shall have power, during the
minority of any of the persons so committed to the said work
Houso, fo bind ut the said persons, so being minors as aforesaid
as apprentices or servants, with their consent, during their minor
aad employments, a3 in their judgment will be most, conducive ‘0
their reformation and amendinent, and future benefit and adver:
tage of such persons, .
6, The said executive committee, by auch commnitees as they
shail from time to time appoint, shall have power, and it shall be
their duty, to visit, inspoet and examine, all the. prieons in the
State, and annually report to the Legislature, their state and con
dition, and all such other things in regard to them as may enable
the Legislature to perfect their government and discipline. And
to enable them to execute the powers and perform the duties
hereby granted and imposed, they shall possess all the powert
and authority, that by the twenty-fourth section of title first
chapter third, part fourth of the Hevised Statutes, are vested it
|) No. 185.]
\soy- st
9
tho inepectors of eounty prisons; and the duties of the keepers
of each prison that they may examine, shall be tho eame in tela
tion to them as in the section aforesaid are imposed on the keep
ers of such prisons in relation to the inspectors thereof Provided,
that no such examination or inspection of any prison shall be
made until an order for that purpose, to be granted by the chan-
collor of this State, or one of the judges of supreme court, or by
a vice-chancellor or eirenit judgo, or by the frst judge ‘of the
county in which the prison td be exainined shall bo situated, shall
first Nave been had and obtained, which order shall specify the
name of the prison 10 be examined, the names of the persons
metabers of the said Association, by whom the examination is t0
be made, and the time within which the same must he concluded,
Stare or New Yous
In Senate, May 8, 1846.
This bill having been read the third time, two-thirds of all the:
nembers elected to the Senate voting in favor thereof,
Resolved, That the bill do pass,
By order of the Senate, A. GARDNER, President,
Stare or New Your,
In isenbty, April 24, isda, §
This bill having been read the third time, and two-thirds of all
tho members elected to the Assembly voting in favor thereof,
Resolved, That the bill do pass.
By order of the Assembly. WM. C. CRAIN, Speaker.
Approved this 9h day of May, 1846. | SILAS WRIGHT.
Srare or New Your,
Secretary's Office.
T have compared the preceding with an original law of file in
this office; and do cortify, that the same is a correct transcript
therefrom, and of the whole of said original.
In testimony whereof T have hereunto affixed tho seal of this
ice at the city of Albany, the fifteenth day of May, in the year
of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty-six.
[ns] ARCH'D CAMPBELL, Dep. Sec. of State.
Revisep Statves, Part IV, Chap.3, Title 1.
$24. It shall be the duty of the keepers of each of the said
Frisons to admit the said inspector, or any one of them into
ery part of such prison; to exhibit to them, on demand, all the
looks, papers, documents and accounts pertaining to the prison,
% to the persons confined therein; and to render them every
ather facility in their power, to euable them to discharge the
iulics above prescribed. And for the purpose of obtaining the
cessary information, to enable them to make sach report as is
shove required, the said inspectors shall have power to examine on
th, to be administered by either of the said inspectors, any of
ihe officers of the said prisons, and to converse with any of the
Fisoners confined therein, without the presence of the keépers
hereof or any of them,
BY-LAWS.
I. Thero shall be a tated meeting of the executive committes
on ihe fourth Monday of each month, and a special meeting shall
‘be held at any time, on the requisition of either of the standing
committees, or the chairman of the executive committes; or chair
man of any standing committee,
cial, the attendance of five members shall be necessary to const
STE The ordor of business at every stated mesting shall bow
follows: ;
1. The reading and adoption of the minutes of the lest pre
ceding meeting. ‘
2, Roports from the standing committoosin the order in which
they are named in the Constitution of the Society.
8, Reports from female department,
4, Reports from the corresponding secretary.
5. Reports from the special committees,
6. Motions and resolutions.
‘The business first in order at a special meoting shall bo the
subject for the consideration of which tho meeting shall havo been
called ;eand no other subject shall be brought before the meeting,
excopt with the consont of a majority of the members present.
TV. The chairman shall nominate and appoint all special com
mittees, and no person nominated by him shall be excused, unlest
‘upon, reasons, assigned by him, that shall be approved by the
meeting; but! a chairman pro tem, shall not have such power,
unless authorized by the meeting. 2
V. The chairman shall decide all questions of order, eubject to
fan appeal, and the rules of order shall be the same, so far as they
are applicable, as those of the Honse of Assembly of the Legisla
ture of New York, :
‘VI. It ahall be the duty of the finance committee:
1. To receive and pay aver to the treasurer of the society
moneys received, either as donations or for memberships
2 To audit, and direct the payment of all bills against tho
ety’ in such manner and forms as they shall diroct
but no bill shall be paid by the treasurer ubless approved
by the committee and countersignéd by the chairman
thereof \
3. To invest and control the surplus moneys of tho sooiety,
under the authority of the executive committeo.
ISS7-53 og
No. 185.]
4, To have power, under the same authority, to employ one
or more agenis to obtain members and collect subscrip-
tions to the society; and it shall bo their duty to mako
report, at each monthly mooting, of thoir proceodings
and those of their agents.
5. To annually examine and report upon the troasurer's
accounts, and to audit tho samo,
VIL. The following shall bo tho duties of the committee on
detentions:
1, To enquire into the causes of commitment of all persons
detained for trial, or as witnessos, in any of the prisons
of the cities of New York and Brooklyn, and to adopt
proper mousures for procuring the discharge of such as
‘shall appear to be entitled thereto.
2, To visit frequently the prisons under their chargo, and to
endeavor to improve the condition of the prisoners, by
training them to habits of cleanliness and exorcise; by
securing to them comfortable accommodations, having a
regard to spaco, light and temperature; by ‘procuring
for them suitable employment ; by providing them with
books, or other means of mental occupation; by socur-
ing such a separation and classification as shall preserve
the young, tho innocent, and the less hardened, from the
contaminating intercourse of the moro depraved; by
obtaining for ‘thom honest and able legal advieo;’ and
generally, by bringing all practical, moral, and religious
influonce to operate upon their minds,
VILL Itshall bo the duty of the committec on discharged convi
1, Under tho authority of the executive commitive to employ
an agent for tho relief and aid of discharged convicts,
and for tho performanco of its daily routine of dutios,
whose placo of business-shall bo at tho goneral office of
tho Association.
2, To koop a record of all commitments to our State prisons,
and New York and Kings county prisons, of the crime
of which each person was convicted, of the dato of his
commitment and discharge, and all other important
information thereto appertaining,
3. To open a correspondence with the prison agents or super:
intondents, relative to the eharaotor and trades of pri-
soners, and to ascertain previous to the discharge of cach
Prisonor, his feolings, views and capabilities, with a view
to making the best arrangements for hie future employ.
ment,
4. To koop a record of all persons who will omploy die
charged prisoners, and of their several ocoupationa; to
Procuro employment for prisonors applying therefor, as
seems best adapted to the capacity. of each; to hold a
correspondence with employers; to keep a record of the
behavior and prospects of those for whom placos aro
Assembly, No. 185. 6
