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+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 75420 ***
+
+
+
+
+
+  Transcriber’s Note
+  Italic text displayed as: _italic_
+
+
+
+
+  BEHIND
+  THE PRISON BARS.
+
+  _A REMINDER OF OUR DUTIES
+  TOWARD THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN SO UNFORTUNATE
+  AS TO BE CAST INTO PRISON._
+
+  By E. E. BYRUM,
+
+  Author of “The Secret of Salvation,” “Divine Healing of Soul
+  and Body,” “The Great Physician,” “The
+  Boy’s Companion,” Etc.
+
+  “_Remember them that are in bonds,
+  as bound with them._”—_Heb. 13:3._
+
+  GOSPEL TRUMPET PUBLISHING CO.,
+
+  MOUNDSVILLE, W. VA.
+
+  1901.
+
+
+
+
+  COPYRIGHT, 1901,
+  BY
+  E. E. BYRUM.
+
+
+
+
+AUTHOR’S PREFACE.
+
+
+Help a man who is in trouble and manifest a care for his soul, even
+though he is an enemy; it touches a tender chord of his hardened heart,
+tends to loose the binding powers of sin, causing him to look up with
+hope. Realizing the great neglect of duty toward them who are behind
+the prison-bars, unable to help themselves in many respects, inspired
+the writing of this volume. It was not the intention of the author
+to write a thorough work on this subject, but to call attention to a
+few facts concerning the prisons and jails, also the treatment and
+privileges of the inmates, and thus awaken the people to a sense of
+duty and the manifestation of a feeling of sympathy. The majority of
+people have never visited a jail or state prison, consequently know but
+little about them, and feel little, if any, responsibility on that line.
+
+About two years ago the Gospel Trumpet Publishing Company of
+Moundsville, W. Va., established a fund for sending out literature
+free to the poor, to jails, prisons, and wherever most needed. As much
+as ten thousand dollars’ worth of books, tracts, and papers have in
+this way been sent out during one year to various parts of the United
+States, Canada, Europe, and other foreign countries. Yet it seems only
+a drop in the bucket, as it were, in consideration of what should be
+done. It is our earnest prayer that the readers of this little volume
+will at once put forth the greatest possible effort to properly supply
+the prisoners and thus aid in bringing about a reformation in their
+lives.
+
+In order to show the result of some of the efforts put forth to supply
+the prisoners with good literature and their appreciation of the same,
+quite a number of letters from prisoners and prison officials have been
+inserted. While these letters have quite a similarity, yet it is hoped
+that their sameness will not destroy their interest in consideration
+of the fact that thereby the prisoners from a broad scope of territory
+have the privilege of giving expression to their feeling of gratitude
+toward those who have thus manifested their friendship.
+
+The names have been omitted of those who have written letters and
+testimonies; however, they appear in full in the original manuscript
+and are genuine. Only the serial numbers are given to those whose
+biographies appear in the book. We are grateful for the kind assistance
+of prison officials and prisoners who have kindly contributed. Further
+communications, or letters, from prisoners or any one interested in
+this line of work will be gladly received by the author. With an
+earnest prayer for the salvation of every prisoner, I remain,
+
+  Yours in Him,
+  E. E. BYRUM.
+
+Moundsville, W. Va., July 4, 1901.
+
+
+
+
+_CONTENTS._
+
+
+                                                                   PAGE.
+
+  In Prison.                                                           9
+
+  Make the Best of It.                                                12
+
+  Punishment.                                                         14
+
+  Capital Punishment.                                                 22
+
+  Life Imprisonment.                                                  26
+
+  The Dungeon.                                                        28
+
+  Cat-o’-nine-tails.                                                  33
+
+  Buck and Gagged.                                                    34
+
+  Lock-step March.                                                    34
+
+  Literary Privileges.                                                37
+
+  Tobacco Allowance.                                                  46
+
+  The Prisoner’s Work.                                                47
+
+  The Stockades.                                                      48
+
+  The Chain Gang.                                                     49
+
+  The Felon’s Cell.                                                   53
+
+  The Library.                                                        56
+
+  The Chapel.                                                         58
+
+  Scaling the Prison Walls.                                           60
+
+  A Prison Reform.                                                    64
+
+  History of West Virginia Penitentiary.                              73
+  (As Written by a Prisoner.)
+
+  Letters from Prison Officials.                                     107
+
+  Testimonies of Convicts.                                           121
+
+  Released from Prison.                                              141
+
+
+
+
+_LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS._
+
+
+                                                                   PAGE.
+
+  The Black List.                                                     19
+
+  Cat-o’-nine-tails.                                                  31
+
+  Lock-step March.                                                    35
+
+  The Chain Gang.                                                     51
+
+  Scaling the Prison Walls.                                           61
+
+  Tracked by Bloodhounds—Captured.                                    69
+
+  Penitentiary of the State of West Virginia.                        105
+
+  The Younger Brothers.                                              145
+
+
+
+
+_BEHIND THE PRISON-BARS._
+
+[Illustration: Decoration]
+
+
+
+
+IN PRISON.
+
+
+Our country is called the land of the free, but could we at one glance
+behold the thousands and tens of thousands now behind the prison-bars
+and know their irksome lives, there would be an awakening in hearts
+that have never known the bondage that exists in our midst.
+
+A crime is perpetrated. Some one is arraigned before the court to
+answer the charges as to whether he is guilty or not. The jury renders
+a verdict, “Guilty.” The judge pronounces the sentence a term in
+prison. The poor unfortunate is now considered a convict. Shackles are
+brought to make him secure, in order to prevent his escape. An officer
+accompanies him to his prison house, where he is to be in servitude
+according to the length of his term of sentence. No one but the
+prisoner realizes the awful feelings as the prison door shuts behind
+him with a clang, and he hears the click of the lock fastening him in
+an iron cell. Whether innocent or guilty, he feels the awful disgrace
+upon himself and his friends. It would not seem so bad if only the
+guilty were brought to justice in this way, but ofttimes the facts
+reveal that not only hundreds, but thousands, of innocent persons are
+thus sentenced and brought into disgrace, many of them serving a life
+sentence.
+
+There are two sides to prison life—a bright side, and a dark side. It
+may be a query in the minds of some how there could be any enjoyment or
+any bright side to such a life, but this will be clearly shown in other
+chapters in this book. There are many things that go to make the prison
+life a dark one. Viewing the matter from a natural standpoint, with no
+one to look to but human help, the way does truly often look dark and
+dreary. There are prisons where men are cast into dungeons and left to
+almost starve to death, or they are bound hand and foot and beaten with
+the cat-o-nine tails, or hanged by the thumbs, or made to pass through
+some severe ordeal of punishment that is almost beyond human endurance.
+Even in our own country there are yet stockades wherein prisoners do
+not receive treatment that would elevate them nor fit them for the
+higher circles of society. Many of these stockades wherein prisoners
+have been kept during the years past have been but little, if any,
+better in many respects than were the Andersonville or Libby prisons
+during the Rebellion. There are exceptional cases to be sure. During
+the past year a number of the states have not properly provided for
+their prisoners. It has not been an uncommon thing in some of these
+stockades to see a gang of men shackled together with chains, obliged
+to go about with the clanking chains to their feet, under rigid rules,
+and having to suffer the severe treatment of wicked and ungodly guards.
+
+The National Prison Association, which is generally represented by
+officers from the various prisons throughout the United States,
+have for a number of years met annually to discuss the best modes
+of handling and caring for the prisoners. Various methods have been
+set forth. Experiments have been made, and too often it is the case
+that hard-hearted officers have used the most excruciating means and
+hard-heartedness in their dealings toward their prisoners, in order
+to keep them in subjection. Some officers deem it necessary to speak
+to prisoners in the sternest possible manner, imagining that being
+cross, gruff, and surly toward them will make them feel a subordination
+that can be brought about in no other way. This only deepens the
+sorrows of the poor unfortunate prisoner and tends to harden his
+heart and affections. Such officers forget that kind looks, gentle
+actions, and words of encouragement fitly spoken will elevate a man
+and encourage him to show his manhood and return the love by putting
+forth his best efforts to show his appreciation of kindness. It is
+true there are hard-hearted men in prison, men who would kill a man
+for a trifle, whose consciences are seared over, as it were, yet there
+are comparatively few men so hard-hearted but can be touched by love
+and kindness. There are times when more severe punishment must be
+inflicted, but the warden and prison officers who continually show
+forth kindness toward the prisoners, greeting them with a smile and
+words of encouragement, have but little trouble in bringing about a
+great reform in the lives of those under their charge.
+
+
+
+
+MAKE THE BEST OF IT.
+
+
+There are thousands in prisons whose hands have been stained with the
+blood of their fellow men; others whose hearts are hardened in sin
+and their lives blackened with many crimes; while again, there are
+those who are innocent, and some who have been cast into prison for
+Christ’s sake. But whether innocent or guilty, the most expedient thing
+is to make the best of the situation. Worrying over the separation
+from friends, the disgrace that is brought about, and bewailing the
+condition of things in general, will by no means help the matter. If
+a sin or crime has been committed it is not hidden from the God of
+heaven, and though the prisoner maybe shut in for years he can have the
+soul liberated from all the sins committed, by confessing them unto
+the Lord, calling upon him, and believing that he does forgive; as
+the Bible tells us in 1 Jno. 1:9 that, “if we confess our sins, he is
+faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all
+unrighteousness.”
+
+The dear prisoner should make a decision for the right at once, cast
+away his gloom, doubts, and fears, and remember the words of the
+apostle, who urges people to cast their care upon the Lord, for he
+careth for them. He is a very present help in time of trouble. By the
+help of Almighty God the prisoner can yet make his mark in the world.
+He can rise above every foe and be of some use before his life closes.
+While he is in the midst of the most desperate characters in the land,
+yet he can have good associates. He can commune with God when alone
+in his cell. He can call for good books and holy literature, read the
+Bible, and make every effort to please the Lord and those around him.
+He can so live that even the prison walls will be a hallowed spot unto
+him. It was while John Bunyan was serving a twelve-year sentence in
+prison that he wrote the notable book “The Pilgrim’s Progress,” which
+has been a help and comfort to multitudes of people. He no doubt worked
+often under adverse circumstances and completed his work through many
+difficulties and much hard labor. Likewise Martin Luther translated the
+New Testament while in prison, and wrote a number of other valuable
+works. The apostle Paul wrote a number of his epistles while in prison.
+He and others with him sometimes were punished by stripes until they
+were left lacerated and bleeding, then cast into prison and bound
+hand and foot. It was under such circumstances that one time Paul
+and Silas were found praising the Lord, singing and shouting at the
+midnight hour, when the Lord sent an earthquake and rent the prison
+walls, throwing open the doors and loosing the shackles, setting them
+free; but they did not flee from the prison until they received proper
+orders. It was their faithfulness that caused the jailer to ask what
+he should do to be saved. Paul told him to believe on the Lord Jesus
+Christ. The generous jailor then took the brethren and washed their
+stripes and properly cared for them, and soon they were dismissed and
+sent on their way. It often happens that some must suffer an unjust
+punishment. To such we can only say, Be of good courage; look up and
+trust for better days.
+
+
+
+
+PUNISHMENT.
+
+
+People are sentenced to a term in prison on account of crime committed.
+There are two systems of punishment. One is called punitive or
+retributive system, the other the corrective or reformative. Until
+within the last few years the punitive system was almost the exclusive
+one. However, our humane officers, prison officials, lawmakers and
+statesmen are not only learning better ways of bringing men and women
+thus incarcerated into subjection, but in many places are making and
+enforcing laws which require that prisoners be more humanely treated
+and receive better care and accommodations. Men have resorted to
+almost every possible device in order to make bad men good and raise
+them from ignorance to intelligence, and in so doing have inflicted
+the most severe punishment, causing the prisoners to pass through
+severest ordeals and most terrible sufferings imaginable. When we say
+there has been a radical change in many of our prisons in the land in
+discarding the severe corporal punishment, we do not wish to convey
+the idea that all prisons have yet accepted the more humane ways of
+governing the prisoners under their charge. When we say some of these
+punishments have been and are yet severe it does not fully express
+the facts of the case. The word “severe” is not a strong enough word.
+There have been and are yet punishments that are brutal—brutal to the
+extreme. Many prisoners who are within the prison walls carry the deep
+lash marks of the whip; the unjointed and deformed thumbs resulting
+from the punishment of being hanged by the thumbs; and there are other
+deformities. Many of us can no doubt remember the time of our early
+days in the country school when the schoolmaster was almost constantly
+with a beach or birch whip in his hand, something equal to an ox goad.
+This instrument for correcting the youths of our land and bringing
+them into subjection, when not in the schoolmaster’s hand was in the
+corner near by and was generally freely used. There have been, however,
+such a radical change and better modes of government brought about,
+that many schools are taught without once using such an instrument of
+punishment. If such a successful change has been made in our public
+schools, surely as radical a change can be made in our prisons, to take
+the place of the brutality of the past. Concerning the easy government
+of the prisoners there is much that depends upon those in charge of the
+prisoners. The warden, chaplain, and prison guards who have direct care
+of the prisoners should be good, whole-souled men, kind and benevolent,
+and who are capable of appreciating the good traits of a man even
+though they may be covered by many dark ones. They should be good
+readers of human nature and understand the dispositions of those under
+their charge. They should be firm and unyielding to their trust, yet
+loving and tender.
+
+Mr. Meade, warden of the state prison at Auburn, N. Y., says: “Till the
+nature of criminals undergoes a complete change, nay, till the nature
+of man is much altered, there will be times when punishment must be
+inflicted on prisoners. Much as we have gained on using the modern
+reformed treatment, and much as we may justly expect to gain in the
+future, the fact remains that there are times in the prison life of men
+when the results of their former passions crop out irresistibly, making
+them for a time not accessible to friendly reproof. At such times, for
+the effect it has on others, but quite as much for its effect on its
+misdemeanant, it is necessary to forcibly bring him to recognition of
+his obligations and his duty. But to my mind forcible restraining,
+or to employ the common term, punishing a convict, does not require
+the use of the paddle or other instruments of torture; furthermore, in
+my judgment, such process should be condemned in the strongest terms.
+For they tend to imbitter not only the man punished but all prisoners
+against the officers of the prison, the rules of the prison, and law
+itself. One instance of the use of the paddle would do more to destroy
+the desired friendly relation between officers and men than many months
+of considerate treatment could restore. No! Experience has proved to
+me that when it is imperative that an inmate be punished, the screened
+cell or dungeon without discretion furnishes an effective mode. Such
+cells should be kept dry and well ventilated, but wholly devoid of
+furnishings. Confining men thus and supplying them with a very limited
+amount of food and water has, in the great majority of cases which
+have come under my observation, speedily brought the desired result of
+making a man see the advisibility of abiding by the regulations of the
+institution.”
+
+There are also other ways, however, of vividly impressing the minds of
+those who are disorderly, or who insist on not observing the prison
+rules. Most prisons have what is called “short time;” that is, for
+good behavior their sentence is shortened so many days each month, and
+in some prisons a certain percentage of the worth of their labor is
+placed to their credit for good behavior. One of the effective ways
+of bringing them to time when they become stubborn and rebellious,
+refusing to obey the rules, is to withhold the commutation, or short
+time, and also deduct so much of the compensation money that has been
+placed to their credit. This is generally much more effective and
+pleads to the reason and common sense of the prisoner more than some
+forcible persuasion by way of corporal punishment.
+
+For certain offences some are black-listed to be punished in various
+ways. One is, during working hours or while others are resting or at
+services on Sunday, the disobedient convict is to march for a few hours
+around the prison square and carry a heavy piece of railroad iron,
+weighing from fifty to one hundred pounds.
+
+[Illustration: The Black List.]
+
+Captain Smith, a few years ago, in giving his biennial report of the
+Kansas prison, said: “The discipline has been carefully looked after
+and as a general thing prisoners yield to a strict discipline better
+than most people think. They seem to see and realize the necessity of
+rules and very seldom complain, if they violate them, at the punishment
+that is sure to follow. Our punishments are of such a character that
+they do not degrade. Kansas, when she established her penitentiary,
+prohibited corporal punishment. She is one of the few states that
+by law prohibits the use of the whip and strap, taking the position
+that it is better to use kindness than to resort to brutal measures.
+I have often been told, and that too by old prison men, that
+it is impossible to run a prison and have first-class discipline
+without the whip. Such is not my experience. We have had within our
+walls perhaps as desperate men as ever received a sentence. We have
+controlled them and have maintained a good discipline second to none
+in the country. How did we accomplish this? Our answer is, By being
+kind but firm, treating a man, although a prisoner, as a man, and if
+he violates rules, lock him up and give him an opportunity to commune
+with himself and his Maker; also give him to understand that he is the
+executioner of his own sentence, and when he concludes that he can
+do right, release him. It matters not how vicious, how stubborn, or
+what kind of a temper he may have, when left with no one to talk to
+and an opportunity to cool down and with the knowledge that when he
+comes to the conclusion that he will do better he can be released, he
+leaves the cell feeling very different from the prisoner who leaves
+the whipping-post after having received any number of lashes that the
+brutal officer may desire to inflict. One goes to his work cheerful
+and determined to behave himself; the other dogged, revengeful, and
+completely humiliated, only lives in hope that he may at some time take
+his revenge upon the person that ordered or inflicted the punishment
+and upon the state or country that would by its laws tolerate such a
+brutal or slavish practice.”
+
+
+
+
+CAPITAL PUNISHMENT.
+
+
+Being put to death for crime or some misdemeanor is termed capital
+punishment. This is not the most painful but is the most heinous of
+all punishments. It is a heathenish practice, yet men make laws, sit
+in judgment, render decisions, pronounce sentences, and thereby shed
+the blood of their fellow men, trying to hide behind the laws that are
+made, trying to screen themselves by the Bible, hoping all will be well
+in the day of judgment. Because of such lawmakers and lawyers, many
+are sentenced and hurled into eternity without being prepared to meet
+God. Will God hold us innocent if we do such things? or if we cry not
+out against such, will he not look down upon a government and nation
+stained with human blood? Surely there is guilt that must be removed.
+When the judge rises and pronounces the death sentence, to ease his
+conscience in the matter he sometimes quotes from Genesis 9:6: “Whoso
+sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed.” Even though that
+scripture could apply in such cases in those days, it can not at the
+present time. It is true that under the law of Moses life was given for
+life as a punishment. For many trivial things people were stoned to
+death, even for the breaking of the Sabbath.
+
+“Then thou shalt give life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand
+for hand, foot for foot, burning for burning, wound for wound, stripe
+for stripe.”—Ex. 21:23-25.
+
+“Then thine eye shall not pity; but life shall go for life, eye for
+eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.”—Deut. 19:21.
+
+“And he that killeth any man shall surely be put to death. And he that
+killeth a beast shall make it good; beast for beast. And if a man cause
+a blemish in his neighbor; as he hath done, so shall it be done to him;
+breach for breach, eye for eye, tooth for tooth: as he hath caused a
+blemish in a man, so shall it be done to him again. And he that killeth
+a beast, he shall restore it: and he that killeth a man, he shall be
+put to death.”
+
+We are not living under the law of Moses in this day and age of the
+world, neither are we justified by the law, but we are living in
+a different dispensation. Paul says the law of Moses was a law of
+bondage, and through Jesus Christ we are free from that bondage. The
+law of Moses and the prophets were until John (Luke 16:16), and we now
+live in the dispensation of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and nowhere
+does he give men the privilege of making and enforcing laws that
+would make the taking of man’s life justifiable. We do not read the
+instructions of Jesus Christ to be “Life for life, eye for eye, and
+tooth for tooth,” neither by way of rendering the sentence of the law
+upon those who have taken the life of their fellow man, nor by acting
+upon the impulse in taking revenge for personal offence or injury. In
+speaking of the law of Moses and what was written concerning the people
+of olden times, Jesus in that memorable sermon on the mount said: “Ye
+have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a
+tooth: but I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall
+smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.”—Matt. 5:38,
+39. Jesus Christ taught the law of love, even taught that we should
+love our enemies and do good to them that hate us and despitefully use
+us. He taught that people should show mercy to their fellow men. Even
+when wicked Cain slew his brother Abel because of a slight offence,
+and though he feared that men would put him to death, God gave him to
+understand that he would not have him put to death, but that he should
+be protected from such a penalty, although his hands were stained with
+his brother’s blood.
+
+In Galatians 5:4 Paul gave the people to understand that they were not
+justified by the law of Moses; he said: “Christ is become of no effect
+unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen
+from grace.” Neither are people justified in the sight of God for
+making and enforcing laws that will take the life of their fellow men.
+Merely quoting the words, “Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his
+blood be shed,” will not remove the guilt. To call such lawmaking and
+enforcement heathenism does not give full expression to the subject;
+nay, it is barbarism in the extreme. Some may severely criticize these
+terms and the views expressed here, but we fearlessly assert that
+such is truth. We are glad to know that a few states in our so-called
+land of liberty have become awakened on this line and refuse to make
+or enforce such a law. Those who still try to hide behind the law of
+Moses, why not carry out that law in full and stone to death every man
+or woman who breaks the Sabbath?
+
+There is another side to the picture. It is sometimes the case that
+a man who is put to death is innocent of the crime for which he is
+charged. Whether innocent or guilty, a great number of those thus
+punished pass into eternity unsaved. With many of them it has been
+an act performed on the impulse of the moment. Their former lives,
+perhaps, have been upright, viewing them from a standpoint of morality.
+Again, it is often the case that a family is left in a critical
+condition to battle for life with this cold world. A delicate wife with
+helpless children must thus be weighed down in sorrow and bereavement,
+poverty staring them in the face, crushed with shame and disgrace, with
+no one to provide for them and no help nor special protection from the
+state whose laws have forever removed the one to whom they looked for
+maintenance and protection.
+
+
+
+
+LIFE IMPRISONMENT.
+
+
+Life imprisonment is an unjust sentence. Life prisoners are those
+who have received their sentence for murdering a fellow being. In
+many cases, however, they can not really be classed as criminals.
+They are victims of circumstances. The deed was not premeditated but
+was brought about on the impulse of the moment. The sentence of a
+lifelong imprisonment forever deprives of the liberties of freedom
+and the association of friends and relatives, and the only hope of
+freedom is an escape, then to remain a fugitive from justice. Mr.
+Meade in his report suggests that the life prisoner should be allowed
+the same privilege of commutation or short time as is given other
+prisoners, and in this give him a hope of release. There are tables
+which insurance companies use (and they are supported by the courts)
+which fix an average limit of years of the existence of a man,
+computing from the first year; the interval beyond the present age
+naturally decreasing as old age approaches. He says: “It would seem
+that these tables furnish a foundation on which a system for life
+prisoners should be based. For instance, a man twenty years of age is
+convicted of murder and sentenced to prison for life. Our tables show
+that the average number of years for a man of that age still to live
+is approximately thirty-four. Figuring the legal commutation on this
+term of thirty-four years, we find the prisoner would be compelled
+to serve about twenty-three years of solid time. A man thirty years
+old would on the same basis, having about thirty years to live, serve
+eighteen years; a man forty years old, having about twenty-five years
+to live, would serve sixteen years in prison. Thus we might continue
+our observations indefinitely.”
+
+My views of this matter may be severely criticised, nevertheless
+we do not consider that five years is unreasonably short for the
+first offence of murder. This releases the innocent man who may
+have been sentenced through circumstantial evidence or otherwise by
+false accusation. It is a long sentence for a man who has acted on
+the impulse of the moment or in a fit of anger; and even to the one
+who has premeditated the crime, five years of hard labor and proper
+training in a prison will be an impressive lesson to cause him not to
+repeat the act. For a second offence it should not be more than ten
+or fifteen years, and even for a third offence it would not be out of
+reason to give him the life sentence with the regular commutation. This
+reasoning may to many at first thought seem ridiculous, but upon proper
+consideration we should remember that as long as there is life there
+is hope, and while there is a possibility of reformation a man should
+have some kind of a chance; not only a chance to reform, but a chance
+to enjoy his liberty. Even after he has served two or three terms he
+is not then a worse character and not more dangerous to a community
+than thousands of others who are just as guilty but have not suffered
+the penalty of the law. When a man has served according to the penalty
+here suggested, has he not suffered sufficient to satisfy the law? and
+should we not be willing to allow him the privileges of liberty and to
+enjoy life once more? It is a hard heart indeed that will place a man
+behind prison-bars for life. In England there is a possibility of being
+set at liberty after twenty years, on account of good behavior. There
+needs to be a radical change in our laws on this line.
+
+
+
+
+THE DUNGEON.
+
+
+This is the dreaded place of all prisons and in many places resorted to
+oftener than necessary. Many prisoners who work in the mines have had
+to go to the dungeon without their supper after laboring hard all day,
+because ungodly and wicked guards reported a shortage in the proper
+amount of coal mined, when the facts of the case were that the guards
+had stolen or removed a portion of the coal from the car after it left
+the prisoner, because of their dislike for the prisoner and by so doing
+could have him punished. It also too often happens that prisoners
+refuse to work as they should, and deserve the punishment. It is not
+necessary to here describe the filthy, stifling, odorous dungeons
+of war times or of some of the worst prisons of the day, but a
+description of the dungeon of one of the best prisons in our land will
+be sufficient. The following is a description given by one who served a
+term in prison. In describing the punishment to secure good discipline,
+he said:
+
+“To me these contingency dungeons are, as their name implies, dark,
+with similarity to an ordinary cell with the exception of a door which
+in the common cell contains open spaces for the admission of light, but
+the dark cell admits no light, and not a sufficient quantity of air.
+There is no furniture in this dark cell. While undergoing punishment
+if a prisoner desires to rest he can do so by reclining on the stone
+floor. No refractory prisoner ever grows corpulent while confined in
+these dark cells, as he receives only one meal of bread and water in
+twenty-four hours. The prisoner is often kept in one of these cells
+from eight to ten days. Sleep is almost impossible. When a prisoner
+enters the dungeon he is required to leave behind him his coat, cap,
+and shoes. During the winter months it is often very cold in these
+cells, requiring the prisoner to walk up and down the dungeon in his
+stocking feet to prevent his freezing, and this for a period of ten
+days in nearly every instance compels submission. After the dark cells
+thaw out in the summer months they are excessively hot. Sometimes in
+winter the temperature is below zero, and in summer it often rises
+to 100 degrees. They are then veritable furnaces. Generally after
+the prisoner undergoes a freezing or baking process for eight or
+ten days, he is willing to behave himself in the future. They are
+sometimes so reduced and weakened that when brought out of the dark
+cell they can scarcely walk without aid. I have seen them reel to and
+fro like drunken men. They are often as pale as death. In many cases
+the prisoner contracts cold which later on terminates fatally, and this
+is one of the principal objections to this mode of punishment. If the
+prisoner in the mine does not get out his regular weekly task of coal,
+on Saturday he is reported to the deputy sheriff by the officer in
+charge and is sent to the blind cell before supper and kept there until
+the following Monday morning, when he is taken out and sent to his
+work in the mines. While in there he gets only bread and water once in
+twenty-four hours. This is a great inducement to work, which certainly
+prevents criminals from shirking their labor, and soon converts the
+lazy tramp into a hustling coal miner. If being in this dark cell
+ten days and nights is insufficient to subdue a rebellious spirit of
+the convict he is taken out and placed in the solitary cell. This is
+similar to the ordinary cell with the exception that it contains no
+furniture. Here the convict remains on bread and water until he is
+starved almost to death or until he is willing to submit and do his
+work as ordered.”
+
+[Illustration: The Cat-o’nine-tails]
+
+
+
+
+CAT-O’-NINE-TAILS.
+
+
+A few years ago while visiting an Indiana penitentiary the warden said
+that some years before they used the cat-o’-nine-tails in punishing
+their prisoners, but had discarded that mode of punishment. There are
+men both in prison and out of prison who carry furrows and scars on
+their backs caused by the deep flesh wounds of the cat-o’-nine-tails.
+This is a whip with lashes some of which have wire interwoven so as to
+cut the flesh with every stroke. The poor prisoner must bare his back
+and be chained or shackled to a post and beaten by a merciless officer,
+who is often only too glad to wreak his vengeance in that way. It is
+yet the case in many prisons and stockades that a similar punishment
+is inflicted with the exception of not so many lashes, and a strap is
+sometimes used, from two to four inches wide, made by sewing two pieces
+of harness leather together. The same is perforated, soaked in water
+over night, and dipped in the sand. This, when vigorously applied to
+the bare flesh, causes the most excruciating pain. This is not in the
+least overdrawing the picture of what is constantly put into practice
+at the present time.
+
+
+
+
+BUCK-AND-GAGGED.
+
+
+This is another dreadful punishment which is still in vogue in some
+places. The prisoner is taken and handcuffed, his hands slipped over
+in front of his knees and sometimes a stick passed through just under
+his knees and over his wrists, his mouth opened ofttimes by force, and
+filled with a large cork or piece of wood, and left in this condition
+until life is almost extinct. This punishment is serious and is apt to
+make the prisoner revengeful instead of making him feel that he has
+been justly punished.
+
+
+
+
+THE LOCK-STEP MARCH.
+
+
+[Illustration: The Lock-step March]
+
+The lock-step march is a humane punishment, yet when continued a
+great length of time is very tiresome. Prisoners who have been guilty
+of some trivial offence during the week, and who are not otherwise
+punished, are generally called upon to fall in line and proceed to the
+open square of the prison, and there while the other prisoners are
+resting or at chapel exercises they must keep in constant motion in the
+lock-step march. This punishment is not as severe as some others, yet
+it is not a desirable punishment, especially when the others are all
+enjoying a rest or comfortably seated in the chapel during religions
+services. When the hundreds of prisoners are gathered in the chapel
+on Sunday morning and comfortably seated, the warden or some other
+officer reads the names of those who are to join in the lock-step
+march. It is not for them to retaliate nor plead their innocence,
+neither wait to be told the second time. As soon as their names are
+called they must immediately rise and as the last name is called they
+are all marched out to the prison yard and there begin their tiresome
+march. Some who have committed greater offences must walk in front and
+carry heavy bars of iron. This punishment is given to stimulate them to
+observe the proper rules and discipline of the prison.
+
+
+
+
+LITERARY PRIVILEGES.
+
+
+The literary privileges are so widely different in the various prisons
+throughout the land that it would be very difficult to render the
+proper information. There are some penitentiaries, and especially
+the stockades of the South, without libraries, and many prisoners
+even serve a term without being granted any educational privileges
+whatever, either by way of literary work or reading of good books. It
+is more difficult in the stockades to give the literary privileges
+than in other established prisons. However, there are states with
+established penitentiaries that have not provided the same with
+libraries and proper literary accommodations. On the other hand,
+many of the penitentiaries have established schools wherein prisoners
+can obtain a fair education. For instance, the Michigan state prison
+more than twenty-five years ago established graded schools, and all
+prisoners who have not a fair education are required four evenings of
+the week to attend these schools for an hour and a half. In this way
+the prisoner is not only benefited, but it brings him under a new line
+of discipline that enables the officer in charge to become familiar
+with his mental condition and capabilities and more fully understand
+the dispositions of those under his charge. Men who are thus drilled
+and properly cared for, after going through this discipline day after
+day, cause less trouble to those in charge. In the prisons where the
+most humane reformative system of management is used there can be many
+things brought to bear upon the minds of the prisoners that will tend
+to elevate them and fit them for the higher circles of society. By the
+proper treatment and privileges they will soon learn to have a taste
+for literary work. A few prisons give the prisoners the privileges
+of general literary work, such as delivering orations, recitations,
+essays, debates, etc. These things, while they educate and develop
+the mind, have a tendency to divert the mind of the prisoner from the
+feelings of disgrace and the deplorable situation; and instead of
+spending hours brooding in despondency it awakens an activity of the
+mind and new thoughts for consideration during the solitary hours.
+
+Every prison should supply each cell with a Bible. Many do this while
+others do not. The prisoners should also have access to the library and
+permission to call for any book in the library. Where they are thus
+looked after it is the duty of certain prisoners to go to each cell and
+learn what book is desired for the coming week and to take up the one
+which was in their possession during the past week. These requests are
+taken to the librarian and the books selected and distributed according
+to number. Prisoners who mutilate or destroy the books in any way are
+denied the privilege of having a book to read for a few weeks. If the
+offence is repeated the punishment on this line is more severe and they
+are then neither allowed to receive a book or paper or are refused all
+privileges of the library and not even allowed to have paper or writing
+material to communicate with their friends. With most prisoners this
+is a severe punishment. One who has not been thus incarcerated or had
+to spend weeks and months in solitude can scarcely realize the value
+of good books to read under such circumstances. But he who has had the
+actual experience knows just how to appreciate such a privilege.
+
+During the civil war a number of Union men made a daring raid through
+the Confederate line and were afterward captured and cast into dungeons
+where they spent weeks of suffering, amid heart-rending scenes, and
+notwithstanding their extreme hunger, thirst, and the stifling odor of
+their dark underground prison and suffering much from their shackles
+and clanking chains, they were taken from place to place and then
+brought to trial. Seven of their number were hanged, leaving about a
+dozen remaining who were expecting to be called out to follow in their
+footsteps at any time. Through some sudden change or maneuver of war
+the remainder of these men were left in prison with guards over them
+and only a meager supply of food. As the seven of their comrades were
+taken from their midst to the place of execution those who remained
+were in much distress of mind. During the morning hours before this
+they had spent the time in playing cards, now and then an oath escaping
+their lips, but now the scene changed. Some one suggested that they
+should pray. There was but little hope of them escaping the fate of
+their comrades and thus soon be hurled into eternity, and what added
+more to the darkness of the hour was the fact that they had not
+made their peace with God. One of the surviving party describes the
+occurrence as follows:
+
+“From this time forward we had religious exercises morning and evening
+and found them a great consolation and support. We began and closed
+the day right and thus added sweetness to all its hours, supplying
+a subject of thought not bearing directly upon our future gloomy
+prospects and thus enabling us to maintain better mental health. We
+always sang a hymn or two on these occasions. We sang ‘Rock of Ages,’
+‘Jesus, Lover of my Soul,’ and others of a pronounced spiritual cast.
+This greatly astonished the guards. They were given strict charge to
+watch us closely with the statement that we were the most desperate
+characters in the whole United States. Then to hear us singing ‘hymns’
+and know that we had prayer morning and evening was a contradiction
+they found hard to reconcile.... What would we not now have given for
+the counsels and assistance of a minister whom we could fully trust!
+Just how to be religious was the puzzle. I know if I had a command to
+execute from an army officer I would do it, if in my power, no matter
+how difficult or dangerous, and I wished intensely that it was just as
+easy to be religious as to be a soldier; but there was the question of
+right feelings and right motives that did not seem to come into play
+very much in the army. For if a soldier did his duty he was not apt to
+be asked how he felt about it. I had the belief that I must have joy
+and rapture in thinking of death and readiness to shout God’s praises,
+which I did not feel; and for a time it seemed as if I could not
+reach a genuine conversion. I diligently read the Bible which we had
+borrowed, and while I enjoyed many things in it, little direct guidance
+for me was found. I asked counsel of our captain for whom I had the
+greatest esteem and respect, but it was so easy for him to believe
+that I thought his case must be very unlike my own, so I spoke to
+another one of our company, the only one of our number who had a clear
+religious faith, and seemed to be happy in it. His first answer was
+very striking. I asked how he felt about death. He thought I referred
+to our worldly prospect, and answered that probably we would soon
+all be put to death. ‘But what is your feeling about death itself?’
+I continued. He said, ‘I am not afraid to die if it is God’s will. I
+trust him now and I expect to trust him to the last.’
+
+He took my hand and there was a steady light in his eye that made me
+believe every word he said. But when I asked him how he got such a
+faith, he could only tell me that he went to a ‘mourners bench’ two
+years before and sought till he found it. This did me no good, for
+there was no place accessible here. In sore perplexity I read the Bible
+from day to day and prayed, taking my turn in praying aloud and reading
+with the others. At length I thought I began to see that trusting
+Christ must be something like taking his words and teachings for my
+guide, trying to do all that he commanded, and leaving the result while
+I did this with him. This was not that sudden transformation that I
+had hoped, but I soon found that it opened up a good many things that
+I had never dreamed of. One of these seemed especially strange under
+the circumstances. I had yet but a slender hope of ever escaping from
+the prison except by the way of the scaffold. But in spite of that dark
+prospect as an absolute test of my obedience—‘Will you, if satisfied
+that it is God’s will, be ready to give up the profession of law if you
+ever get home and go into the ministry?’ The first and spontaneous
+reply was, No! I had studied law and meant to practice it if I ever got
+where law reigned. But at once the self response was clear, ‘What kind
+of obedience was this?’ I saw that I was not sincere in professing to
+enlist under Christ as my captain unless I would really obey him. It
+would be a poor allegiance that stopped short with the things I wanted
+to do. For a long time I could not pass this point. The difficulty
+when communicated to my prison companions seemed utterly absurd. ‘Try
+to serve God in the prison where you are,’ they said with a cheer
+plausibility, ‘and do not bother about preaching, being a lawyer or
+anything else, when you get out, for you never will get out.’ This
+seemed good advice but it would not give a serene mind or the victory
+over the fear of death, which I so much desired.
+
+“One after another of those in the prison found the comfort I lacked.
+And it was not until wearied and worn-out that I vowed that if God
+would only give me peace I would serve him as sincerely in prison or
+out of it as I had tried to serve my country, and in any way he might
+direct. From this time I did have a steady conviction that I was on the
+Lord’s side and that I had a right to commit myself and my life to his
+keeping. Though all newspapers were strictly forbidden, yet through
+the kindness of negro waiters we were supplied and thus kept posted
+regarding war news.... We all remember with deepest gratitude the visit
+of a minister. When he left he promised to send us some books and did
+not forget to promptly forward them. These we took good care of, read
+thoroughly to all in the room, and then returned, asking for more.
+These he generously gave and we thus continued until we had read nearly
+his whole library. Those only who know what a dreadful weariness it is
+to pass days without any definite employment can realize the great boon
+these good books bestowed on us. It made the prison room a veritable
+school, and in view of our religious efforts the character of the books
+was just what we would most have desired, as they were of a religious
+cast, which only made them the more welcome. But there is no employment
+upon which I look back with more pleasure than that for which the
+minister’s books furnished us the material. With fifteen persons in
+a room not more than eighteen feet square it was needful to preserve
+quiet if any reading must be done. We therefore appointed regular
+reading hours, two in the forenoon and the same in the afternoon.
+During this time no one was permitted to speak above a low whisper and
+all noise and running about was forbidden. Those who did not wish to
+read might sleep. Sometimes the books were read silently, but for a
+part of the time in nearly every period a volume of general interest
+would be selected and read aloud. These books would often furnish
+subjects and arguments for discussion in the debating periods that
+followed. We gained a great deal of knowledge in our novel school,
+which has been of lifelong value. Books of travel, adventure, history,
+biography, and theology—no fiction—were freely read and brought the
+freshness of the outside world into our dreary captivity.”
+
+The foregoing gives us a vague idea of what can be done for the welfare
+of the prisoners in the jails, work-houses, and penal institutions of
+our land, towards making the prisoners happy by supplying them with
+good books, tracts, papers, and such like. Oh, the neglect on this
+line! Were prisoners thus supplied, their minds would not be occupied
+during the solitary hours in scheming and planning the best modes of
+perpetrating crime. Get a man interested in a good book and you thus
+place him in good company. He may never see you, but with deep feelings
+of gratitude will ever have the kindest feelings toward those who
+thus bestowed the kind favor of placing him in possession of such a
+companion.
+
+For the entertainment of the prisoner and to develop an interest in
+literary work they have been allowed to publish prison papers. Some
+of these are very small while others are large and well edited. About
+three years ago at Sing Sing Prison, in the state of New York, it was
+decided to issue a bi-weekly twenty-six-page paper to be edited and
+printed entirely by convicts. No article is allowed in the paper except
+those composed and furnished by the inmates of the prison. When papers
+are thus printed and distributed among the prisoners it has a great
+controlling influence and creates a general interest in literary work.
+
+
+
+
+TOBACCO ALLOWANCE.
+
+
+Most prisoners are users of tobacco, yet there are many who do not use
+it. Some prisons allow a pound of tobacco a month, some two pounds
+every month. This is generally manufactured at the prison where it is
+used. One of the modes of punishment, and a very effective one too, is
+to deprive the men of their tobacco for disobedience. With many this is
+one of the most severe punishments instituted. When a man enters prison
+he is given a copy of the rules of the prison and also a ticket stating
+the privileges of the use of the library, books, letter-writing,
+tobacco allowance, etc. Failure to comply with the rules ofttimes means
+to be deprived of these privileges for a month or longer. Some time
+ago we placed a number of tracts in prisons showing the evil effects
+of tobacco on the human system, the filthiness and offensiveness of
+tobacco, etc., and we were pleased to note the results by way of
+convincing many prisoners to discontinue the use and give up the habit.
+While some are able by strong willpower to discontinue the use of it,
+yet but comparatively few people can in their own strength quit its use
+and rid themselves of the appetite. But many can testify that they have
+not only been able to quit its use, but have had the appetite removed
+by the power of God in answer to prayer.
+
+
+
+
+PRISONERS’ WORK.
+
+
+Men and women are sent to prison to work. The sentence is generally
+so many years in state prison at hard labor. It is right and proper
+that they should work and should be made to work faithfully. It is
+not supposed that they receive a sentence to enter a paradise for so
+many years. In the different prisons the work is quite different.
+There are prisons where the prisoners are required to spend almost
+their entire time of working hours from 600 to 800 feet under ground
+digging coal. At some places the veins of coal are so shallow that the
+prisoners are compelled to lie down and stretch themselves out or be in
+a half-way sitting posture while at their work. Such prisoners often
+contract colds, rheumatism, and other diseases which rapidly shorten
+their lives. In other prisons they are taken out in gangs to work on
+the public highways and crush stone. However, some prisons furnish the
+prisoners work within the prison walls. Much of this labor is let out
+to contractors who have a business of making clothing, harness, whips,
+brooms, etc. In such cases the contractors pay the state a small amount
+each day for the labor of the prisoners. Many complaints have been
+made, and many of them justly, because of the unfair requirements and
+treatment of the prisoners. This should be more carefully looked after
+by the prison inspectors of the state, and we are glad to know that in
+many places it is receiving attention.
+
+The time for working ranges from ten to fourteen hours per day. In the
+United States prison at Leavenworth, Kans. they rise at six o’clock,
+and when the men are ready to go to their work, three hundred of them
+march two miles and one-half to their work, a hundred more go two miles
+in another direction to work on a farm, while others are otherwise
+occupied till six o’clock in the evening. As a general thing, if the
+prisoner is careful to obey the rules and work well, he is not likely
+to have much trouble with the officials. However, in some prisons very
+few escape extra punishments of some kind.
+
+
+
+
+THE STOCKADES.
+
+
+The stockade is an enclosure, or pen, made with posts or sticks stuck
+in the ground. It is generally a temporary affair. These are to be
+found in the South and Southwest mostly. Here is where the worst
+treatment is to be found among the prisoners. Some of the southern
+states are providing better for their prisoners, but others are far
+behind what they should be. A stockade is sometimes made on the top
+of a mountain or in some suitable place for working mines. In these
+southern states not only mining is carried on by the prisoners, but
+building of roads, railroads, and such like. For instance, where a
+railroad is being built, large cars are roughly and strongly built in
+which the prisoners are locked when not at their work. Women in some of
+these places are required to clear the land, roll logs, do drudgery,
+and in many instances are so shamefully used and treated that it is a
+disgrace to a civilized nation. But while such is the case there are
+noble men and women who are not connected with the prison, as well as
+many of the more noble prison officers who have been working faithfully
+for years to bring about a prison reform, and much has been done and is
+being done on that line. However, could the veil be drawn aside that
+all might fully realize the situation, the reformation would be more
+rapid and effective. The stockades do not have literary privileges as
+a general thing as do our older and well-established prisons. We have
+received communications from officers in these stockades who are very
+anxious to have good literature placed at their disposal, assuring us
+that the same would be highly appreciated and used to the advantage of
+the prisoners.
+
+
+
+
+THE CHAIN GANG.
+
+
+It is not an uncommon thing to see a chain gang of prisoners,
+especially about the stockades. Sometimes they are marched to and from
+their work shackled with handcuffs, while others are fastened with
+clanking chains. There are also men to be found with iron bands or
+rings welded around their necks, to which a chain is fastened with the
+other end of the chain attached to a ball to prevent their escape.
+These are generally the most desperate characters.
+
+To those who are acquainted with such scenes it is shocking indeed,
+and creates a feeling of pity and sympathy which calls for a more
+humane treatment in behalf of the poor unfortunates. There are men who
+serve almost an entire term of sentence in stocks or irons, or go to
+their work in the chain gang, because of a lack of proper provision of
+accommodations on the part of the state or government, or by unjust,
+inhumane treatment.
+
+Few men have fallen so low in sin and degradation, or have been so
+hardened by crime, but yet have at least a spark of humanity or manhood
+which can be kindled to a flame by proper humane and reformative
+treatment; where, on the other hand, an undue amount of the imposition
+of irons and chains causes them to grind with revenge, and seemingly
+the little spark of manhood is seared over with a more hardened
+conscience, leaving him still a criminal almost beyond redemption.
+
+[Illustration: The Chain-gang.]
+
+
+
+
+THE FELON’S CELL.
+
+
+When one is taken to serve a term in prison, has exchanged his
+citizen’s clothes for a suit of stripes, is measured, and a full
+description is written in the prison books, he is taken to a cell which
+is to be his future abode during his confinement, except what time
+he is at work, at his meals, or is otherwise stationed by the prison
+officers. We can here only give a description of what is commonly found
+to be a prison cell. It is a small iron room with a stone floor, and
+when two convicts are to occupy the same cell, there are two bunks or
+beds in the cell. The bed-rack is made of iron or wood slats, and the
+bed-tick is generally filled with corn-husks or some similar material,
+likewise the pillow. When the beds are not in use they are fastened
+to the side of the wall with a chain. When down and in use they take
+up nearly the entire space of the cell, so that it is impossible for
+the two occupants to pass each other in walking to and fro. The other
+furniture generally consists of a small tinbucket holding about two
+quarts of water, and a washbasin. A short-handled broom is also found
+in one corner of the cell with which the convict brushes it every
+morning. The walls are either iron or stone, decorated with a small
+looking-glass and a towel. Each cell contains one chair, as there is
+not room for two; so that when one sits on the chair the other stands
+or occupies a seat on the stone floor. The door is made of half-inch
+iron bars crossing each other at right angles, leaving spaces about two
+by six inches. Through these spaces come the air, light, and heat.
+
+To give the reader an idea of how one would naturally feel on the
+first introduction to such a place, we will give it in the language of
+a prisoner, who says: “After examination I was shown to my cell. It
+was now about two o’clock in the afternoon of my first day in prison.
+I remained in the chair during the entire afternoon. Of all the dark
+hours of an eventful history none have been filled with more gloom and
+sadness than those of my first day in prison. All my life I moved in
+the highest circles of society, surrounded by the best and purest of
+both sexes, and now I was in the deplorable condition of having been
+hurled from that high social condition down to the low, degraded plane
+of a convict. As I sat there in that desolate abode of the disgraced I
+tried to look out down the future. All was dark. For a time it seemed
+as if that sweet angel we call Hope had spread her wings and taken her
+departure from me forever. The black cloud of despair somewhat settled
+down upon me. But very few prisoners possess the ability to make
+anything of themselves after having served a term in the penitentiary.
+I sat brooding over these things for an hour or more and my manhood
+asserted itself and hope returned. I reasoned thus: I am a young man,
+I enjoy good health, there will be only a few months of imprisonment,
+and then I will be free. I thought of my loving wife, little children,
+my aged mother, my kind friends, and for their sake I would not yield
+to despair. Soliciting aid of a kind heavenly Father I resolved to do
+the best I could toward regaining what I had lost. I was aware of the
+fact that when I got out of the penitentiary all the money I would
+have with which to make another start in life would be five dollars.
+The United States presents her prisoners upon discharge with a suit of
+citizens’ clothes and five dollars. This was my capital.”
+
+Truly such a sad condition would be deplorable, but the prisoner can
+only assert his manhood, lay his plans for the future, and determine to
+rise above it all, which is not impossible. Many have risen to a good
+standing in life. What has been done can be done again.
+
+Prisoners who are sentenced to be hanged are generally taken to a
+cell in the execution house separate from the other prisoners. The
+convict thus doomed spends the time in this prison and is not required
+to work. A few months ago I visited a prison, and in the execution
+building I found two prisoners in solitary cells. One seemed to have
+made his peace with God, but the other was in deep trouble over his
+soul, was not ready to meet God, and had only a few more days to live.
+It seemed he could not pray. He had been reading his Bible and other
+religious books, but hope had almost fled. After talking with him for
+a time, I said, “Young man, your time is short unless God in some way
+intervenes. If you have been guilty of crime and are trying to hide
+it from your fellow men or denying the charge, you can not hide it
+from God. Acknowledge before him the facts as they are and call upon
+him for help.” After praying with him for a while he gave vent to his
+feelings in most earnest pleas to God, crying out, “I am a murderer.”
+He continued his earnest pleas until the Lord did forgive him. A week
+or two later when the death sentence was read to him in his cell, he
+was ready, and made the remark that they could only take away his
+breath, for his soul would be forever landed in peace. I saw him march
+up to the gallows, and as his legs and arms were being strapped and
+a rope tied about his neck he glanced heavenward as if breathing a
+silent prayer, and when the electric signal was given, he dropped into
+eternity.
+
+
+
+
+THE LIBRARY.
+
+
+While many prisons are not yet supplied with a library, there are
+efforts being made on this line for the education and elevation of
+the minds of the prisoners. For those who have already received an
+education there are many valuable books in the library to furnish them
+something to occupy their minds at such times as they may have to read.
+Some states furnish so many thousand books and an appropriation of $500
+a year for library purposes. Among the books furnished are scientific
+works, history, biography, and others of a religious and moral nature,
+together with many novels and works of fiction. The Christian people
+of our land should see to it that a greater number of books of a real
+spiritual cast are placed at the disposal of prisoners.
+
+About two years ago, after receiving some earnest letters of
+appreciation and thankfulness from prisoners who had received books
+and papers, a deeper sympathy was awakened in their behalf. For
+some days I became greatly burdened in behalf of a certain prison,
+concerning supplying the prisoners with a library of good books. Not
+knowing whether they had a library or whether the prison officials
+would receive the books and put them into the hands of the prisoners, I
+hesitated. As the burden for this matter could not be so easily thrown
+off, my next step was to visit the prison and make investigations
+through the prison officials, and was not a little surprised to find
+they were without a library, though at that time were preparing a large
+library room, intending to make a plea to the people for a donation
+of books. As soon as the room was finished it was my pleasure to see
+that $1000 worth of well-bound books were placed in the library for
+the prisoners, being donated by those who have an interest in the men
+behind the bars. It has also been a source of gratitude to know that
+these books have been appreciated and enjoyed by the many prisoners who
+read them in their cells and in the library.
+
+In some prisons about twenty per cent. or more of the prisoners are
+unable to read or write. For this reason schools are being formed
+where such, especially those who desire to do so, can have a chance to
+receive an education. These schools are generally held in the library
+room and taught by one of the prisoners.
+
+
+
+
+THE CHAPEL.
+
+
+The chapel is the place where prisoners get most of their public
+instruction aside from what is obtained in the library. It is not
+often that they have the privilege of attending educational lectures
+as if they were attending a college or public school; however, in our
+better prisons steps are being taken to give the well-behaved prisoners
+advantages on this line occasionally. The general meetings on Sunday
+are held in the chapel, to which the prisoners are marched in regular
+order, where several hundred are in weekly attendance. The chaplain
+generally conducts the regular services or has ministers from the city
+to take their turns in preaching to them. Prison evangelists are often
+given the privilege of talking to the prisoners or visiting them at
+their cells for the welfare of their souls. There are prisons where
+all visitors and gospel workers are admitted free, while other prisons
+charge twenty-five cents admission fee. Aside from what is known as
+the regular chapel services, the prisoners who desire to meet before
+that hour or remain after, in a social religious prayer-service or
+Bible class, can have the privilege of doing so. All prisoners are
+allowed to sing at the general services, although they generally have
+a select choir. One man in giving a report of the prison choir said:
+“At one time we had two horse thieves, two rapists—one with a sentence
+of forty years—three murderers, two hog thieves, and several others
+with equally villainous records.” It would be difficult at such a place
+to select a choir that had a clean past record. While these men were
+criminals when incarcerated, some of them will doubtless always remain
+criminals, while others have so reformed as to be worthy of a better
+name.
+
+Many prisoners during their confinement actually get a real experience
+of salvation, and those desiring to be baptized by immersion go from
+the chapel to the laundry, and there in a well-filled tank or long
+troughlike tub receive the ordinance of baptism. The chapel does
+not have stained-glass windows nor the finery of many modern church
+buildings; nevertheless the place is supposed to have everything neat
+and in order, and the men are to observe the strictest decorum and
+reverence while in attendance.
+
+
+
+
+SCALING THE PRISON WALL.
+
+
+There are in almost every prison those who are called
+“trusties”—prisoners who are given the privilege of doing work outside
+of the prison, going on errands, etc., without the presence of a guard.
+Others have unusual liberties within the prison walls. Life prisoners
+and those who have received a sentence for a number of years and
+have not yet made up their minds to reform, often give the officials
+considerable trouble in trying to make their escape; although, as a
+general thing, life prisoners are well-behaved persons. There have
+been some noted and desperate efforts made to escape prison. Desperate
+characters have used all their ingenuity in devising plans for an
+escape and watch an opportunity to raise an insurrection at a critical
+time. There have been times when the insurrection was so great as to
+defy the prison officials, and the disturbance could only be quelled
+by the daring boldness and wisdom of the warden or general officer in
+charge. When a number of desperate prisoners get such an advantage
+they will fearlessly face death rather than yield. A few such noted
+instances are on record. It is, however, very difficult for a prisoner
+to make good his escape. If successful he must go under an assumed name
+and always be a fugitive from justice. If a failure is made he is apt
+to have to serve his full sentence instead of having advantage of the
+commutation of “short time.”
+
+[Illustration: Scaling the Prison Walls.]
+
+Bloodhounds are kept at the present time for the purpose of capturing
+those who try to make their escape, and there are men behind the
+prison walls who carry ugly scars made from deep flesh wounds by the
+bloodhounds during the time of their capture. There are times when a
+fire breaks out in a prison which must receive immediate attention
+of all available help. It is at such times that desperate characters
+undertake to raise an insurrection and make their escape. Many
+prisoners have been known at such times to show their manhood, and
+offer their services and manifest their loyalty by aiding the officers
+in keeping the prisoners in subjection and in extinguishing the flames.
+Such prisoners should be highly rewarded, and many of them shortly
+afterward receive their pardon in honor of their loyalty and good
+principles shown. The prisoner who desires to have favors shown him in
+prison should, upon first entering, decide to obey the prison rules
+to the best of his ability. Anything to the contrary will bring the
+ill favor of the prison officials upon him. An attempt to escape will
+not be forgotten and he will be very closely watched and denied many
+privileges which he could have otherwise enjoyed, and is not apt to be
+made a “trustie.” It is therefore a wise plan to decide upon perfect
+submission from the beginning of the confinement.
+
+
+
+
+A PRISON REFORM.
+
+
+The highest ideal of prison life is not simply punishment for evil
+doing, but should be a reformation in the lives of those who are thus
+incarcerated. We are glad to know that there is really a reformation
+being brought about in the rules and government of the prisons in our
+land.
+
+It is said of one of the kings in a country in Europe that, being
+desirous of knowing how the common people lived, he dressed himself
+as a peasant or tramp and went about from place to place among the
+poorer class of people, and while thus lounging about the city he was
+met by a policeman who demanded him to give an account of himself. Not
+giving the proper satisfaction, the policeman hurried him off to a
+dungeon-like cell. The prisons under that king’s domain were in a sad
+condition—dirty, filthy, alive with vermin, and were most degrading
+places. Thus the king was obliged to spend the night in such horrible
+quarters, which was in great contrast to the royal palace. However,
+it was a night well spent, though but little enjoyed by the king. He
+was touched as never before by a sympathetic feeling for the poor
+unfortunate human beings who were cast into such places. He at once
+ordered a renovation of all the prisons throughout his kingdom.
+
+Aside from our penitentiaries, there are jails, work-houses, and
+places of imprisonment, many of which are allowed to become filthy,
+with lice and other vermin in almost every crevice, making the place
+not only extremely unpleasant but unhealthful to every inmate. No doubt
+if many of our lawmakers and other influential people of our country
+were compelled to spend a few days or nights in such prisons there
+would speedily be a great reformation in the prisons of our own land.
+
+Aside from cleanliness and government of prisons and jails there
+is a reformation in which we can all have a part, and help to
+point the unfortunate ones to Him who is able “to bring out the
+prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of
+the prison-house.”—Isa. 42:7. A number of our penitentiaries have
+comparatively good libraries furnished by the state; some have not yet
+been supplied with libraries; and even among those that are supplied
+there are more novels than good, wholesome religious works. However, in
+some prisons each prisoner is supplied with a Bible of small print, and
+there has been an earnest plea from the prisoners for good, wholesome
+religious literature by way of books, tracts, papers, etc. Our jails
+have as a general thing been sadly neglected on this line.
+
+A few months ago we made an effort through the Gospel Trumpet
+Publishing Company, of Moundsville, W. Va., to supply jails and prisons
+with small libraries of good unsectarian religious books, such as would
+be a benefit to the prisoners and tend to lead them to a higher aim
+in life. We were soon greatly surprised to realize the demand from
+prisoners for such literature. A few hundred jails were thus supplied
+with libraries and religious papers. It was almost astonishing to learn
+in reply by their letters of appreciation that in many places they had
+never been thus remembered before. Some prisoners had been in for a
+number of months without any religious reading matter and scarcely any
+one to visit them.
+
+Being thus reminded of a lack of duty brought to mind the words of
+Jesus, as mentioned in the twenty-fifth chapter of Matthew, wherein he
+was speaking of the end of time when the nations should gather before
+him and he would separate the good from the bad. And we read where he
+says, “Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye
+blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the
+foundation of the world: for I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat:
+I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me
+in: naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was _in
+prison_, and ye came unto me.... Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one
+of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”
+
+My dear reader, how will it be with us when we appear before the King
+in all his glory in that day? Can he say of us that he was in prison,
+and we came unto him? Or shall he be compelled to utter these words:
+“Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the
+devil and his angels: for I was an hungered, and ye gave me no meat: I
+was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me
+not in: sick, and _in prison_, and ye visited me not. Inasmuch as ye
+did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me”?
+
+While we enjoy our beautiful homes and the pleasures of life and
+freedom, the question comes directly, Have we done our duty toward
+the prisoner? Have we visited Jesus in the prison? We may not be able
+to go there in person, but we can visit them by providing them with
+silent messengers by way of good books, tracts, papers, etc. There are
+doubtless thousands of professing Christians who never gave a dollar to
+help a prisoner, who never visited a prison in person or in any other
+way. There are those who could spend hundreds of dollars in supplying
+prisons and would not feel the weight of it financially, but we should
+make an effort on this line by giving to the extent that we may feel
+the weight of the sacrifice, and thereby God will be greatly glorified
+and many prisoners led to seek the Lord and live a pure and holy life.
+
+Some of the most intelligent and highly educated men are found behind
+the prison-bars and fill felons’ cells. It is not always the man of low
+type, ignorant and uneducated, that thus meets his doom. There are men
+and women from every class of society. There are men who are hardened
+in crime, whose consciences seem seared, yet none so hard-hearted,
+none so low down in the depths of sin that they have not a spark of
+manhood to which there is an appeal. Brutal treatment will not reach
+such specimens of manhood; however, they must be brought under strict
+discipline of the requirements of servitude and given to understand
+that perfect obedience is required; yet with all that, when they are
+told in a kind, gentle, loving manner and given to understand that they
+are entitled to the best privileges of the prison as they deserve it,
+that little spark of manhood will soon be kindled into a flame. There
+are prisons where a small per cent. of the monthly earnings are placed
+to their credit, which in a few years amounts to a large enough sum
+to give them a fair start at the time of their release. If they are
+disobedient, so much is taken from their credit. But aside from the
+kind moral treatment there must be something more effective. The hearts
+of these hardened criminals must be changed by the power of God. The
+prison officials who fail to realize or recognize this necessity have
+to a great extent failed in their reformative efforts. Every effort
+possible should be extended in behalf of the spiritual welfare of the
+prisoners.
+
+[Illustration: Tracked by Bloodhounds—Captured.]
+
+There is an evil existing in our jails and work-houses that is
+startling and alarming, nevertheless it continues throughout the
+breadth of our land. A young man or wayward boy is arrested for some
+trivial offense; it is probably the first time he has been guilty of
+thus breaking the law. He is placed behind the prison-bars to await a
+preliminary hearing before a justice of the peace. He is then liable to
+be sentenced for from thirty to ninety days in jail, or bound over to
+court, which is to be in session a few weeks or months later. In the
+meantime he is confined in the jail to await his arraignment before the
+court.
+
+Let us now take a look at the jail itself and its inmates. It is well
+secured with solid walls, iron doors, and prison-bars. There are a few
+private cells, a broad hallway, and large room into which from five to
+fifty persons are confined. Sometimes even a greater number are thus
+imprisoned without grade or discrimination of crime. The tender youth
+must intermingle with those who are steeped in sin and hardened in
+crime. He is here taught to play cards, read novels, use vulgar and
+profane language, practice the most vile habits, plan for burglaries,
+and comes forth a rogue at heart, and a hardened criminal. Otherwise,
+had there been the proper discrimination, separating those who are just
+starting on the downward course from the hardened criminals, there
+would be a reformation in their lives instead of a degeneration. These
+are facts that can not be denied—facts that stare us in the face, and
+are sad truths that will continue to hover over us, as it were, until
+the good people rise up and protest against it for a proper reformation
+on this line. The good people of our land would be surprised, yea,
+stricken with consternation, were they to visit most jails and
+work-houses and make a thorough investigation, to behold the filth and
+general sanitary condition of the place, which is infested with lice
+and other vermin.
+
+It is right and proper to send people to jail or prison who will not
+behave themselves. They need both punishment and reformation. This
+can be done effectually and with good results if the proper course is
+pursued.
+
+
+
+
+_HISTORY OF WEST VIRGINIA PENITENTIARY._
+
+WRITTEN BY A PRISONER.
+
+
+In 1863 the state was admitted as one of the constellation of states
+of the union. Virginia had seceded from the union by a majority vote.
+The strong and indomitable minority citizens of the Old Dominion
+residing in the western part of it, many of whom were Scotch and Irish
+descendants and natives of the adjoining states, who had taken up their
+homes in the valleys and on the hillsides, were loyal to the Union,
+loved well the flag, and reverenced with an undying affection the
+builders of the union of states for the greater blessing of the people,
+and stood firm and unyielding for an indivisible united country. By
+their hands and brave hearts they built a state stretching from the
+Potomac to the Ohio river, carved out of the Old Dominion. The war-born
+daughter of the historical commonwealth proved, in the subsequent
+years, to be rich in the production of materials in active demand in
+the marts of commerce, and she now outstrips her mother state in the
+race for greatness, prosperity, and happiness.
+
+Many regions of the state are mountainous, and the principal industries
+are lumbering, mining, and oil production. Many of the white people
+are typical mountaineers and somewhat rough and uncouth in manner,
+while the negroes, many of them, have drifted from North and South
+Carolina, Alabama, and other southern states to be employed in the
+development of these industries.
+
+There are very many respectable farmers, professional and business men,
+and cultured ladies residing in these almost inaccessible parts; but
+the rough element in many places predominates, and the order of the
+day and night is drinking and brawling, ending as a rule in desperate
+encounters and murder. Most of the white and black inmates of the
+penitentiary have been and are now composed of the lawless men from
+these regions, from the time it was only a stockade of ten acres in
+1866, when Hon. J. W. McWhorter of the Tenth Judicial District was
+appointed warden by Governor Boreman. He resigned the position after
+viewing it. In a letter to Warden Hawk he states it was for the reason
+that there was not so much as a building erected for the shelter of the
+inmates, and he thought he could not work the convicts to advantage
+under the circumstances. The penitentiary has been improved from time
+to time to the present, by additions, until it is a massive structure
+of stone and iron, with a high stone surrounding wall. It has 695
+inmates at the present writing.
+
+The center, or main building, is built after the old baronial
+castellated style of architecture, and with its several stories
+height, it makes an imposing appearance. It is flanked on the north
+and south by the stone and strongly-barred buildings, wherein the old
+and first built stone cells and the modern steel ones—900 in all—are
+placed. Entrance is to be had into the prison proper by means of a
+round turning iron-barred cage in the main hallway of the central
+building.
+
+The cell-building halls are kept in a neat and clean condition; the
+cells are in good sanitary condition and are kept in good order by the
+inmates, many of whom are artistic in taste and paint and make many
+fanciful designs as adornments of their small sleeping quarters. The
+yard, limited in area by the shop, dining-hall, engine and hospital
+buildings, is artistically laid out in grass-grown plats and flower
+beds in season. Around the area of space on brick-laid pavements the
+prisoners are permitted to walk in columns of two according to grade
+for exercise during the afternoon after working hours, and Sabbath
+forenoon prior to and after chapel services. At the four corners of the
+penitentiary walls are stone turrets where armed guards are placed from
+four o’clock a. m. to 9 p. m.
+
+Upon West Virginia establishing a state government, Wheeling was
+selected as the capital where the legislature met in session in 1863,
+with Hon. Arthur I. Boreman as chief executive. The prison was located
+in 1866 at Moundsville, Marshall Co., then a beautiful village a few
+miles from the seat of government. The location, for drainage and
+sanitary conditions, might have been better selected from one of the
+many surroundings hills than in the midst of the village in the valley
+on the banks of the Ohio river.
+
+Moundsville has since the location of the penitentiary there, grown
+into the eighth city in population of the state, and is now a
+manufacturing and resident town possessing daily and weekly newspapers.
+Modern improvements prevail, with water and electric light systems and
+street-car lines connecting with Wheeling and adjoining suburbs. The
+magnificent mound erected by the Mound Builders many years gone by for
+the burial of their dead, to be seen near the penitentiary, is one of
+the attractions to the thousands of persons who visit the locality.
+
+Hon. G. S. McFadden, of Moundsville, was the first active and practical
+warden of the penitentiary. With the means at hand he made many
+praiseworthy improvements for the amelioration of the inmates during
+his incumbency. The condition of the prisoners during the four years
+past and now, is a vast improvement over the old system. Skilled and
+humane prison managers for many years were wanting. The condition of
+the inmates was at times deplorable in the extreme. The methods of
+punishment in vogue were extremely severe, the work laborious, the
+clothing of the zebra kind, the lock-step exacting, the supply and
+kind of food indifferent and bad. The employment of the prisoners on
+the state account or under contract was unprofitable, and expenses
+for the prison’s maintenance piling upon the taxpayers, who made just
+complaint. Loud demands were made by the people of Moundsville and
+throughout the state, conversant with the deplorable condition of the
+affairs of their penal institution, for a change.
+
+After Governor Atkinson’s inauguration, March 4, 1897, he appointed
+Colonel S. A. Hawk as warden of the penitentiary. He was at the time
+of his appointment a well-known business man of Huntington, Cabell Co.
+For a number of years he was also known as a popular employee of an
+Ohio river steamboat running out of Huntington. He was at one time a
+successful merchant, hotel-keeper, contractor, and during President
+Harrison’s administration as President he was an official of the
+Interior Department in charge of the public domain in Arizona Territory.
+
+Prior to the incumbency of Warden Hawk the West Virginia penitentiary
+had for years been running behind the legislative appropriation
+many thousand dollars annually, and not much, if any, success was
+made in the reformation of the prisoners. Altogether the prison was
+in bad order when he took hold as warden, he not only introduced
+reformatory treatment with respect to the prisoners, but he has made
+the institution bring to the state an actual profit over and above all
+expenses for maintenance. Warden Hawk took hold of the penitentiary
+management May 1, 1897. He discovered that his predecessor’s method
+of punishment was principally solitary confinement. Twenty-seven or
+more prisoners were undergoing the punishment on bread and water, and
+they presented a pitiable condition. Their labor was lost to the state;
+their mental, moral, and physical health undermined; hope seemingly was
+blasted, and they were strangers to God. The warden turned the key and
+liberated these men and put them to work, which they gladly expressed a
+willingness to do.
+
+He adopted the new and advanced method of prison management in line
+with up-to-date penalogists; viz., The grade system, plain clothing in
+lieu of stripes, more and better food, first-class medical attendance,
+every prisoner at work, more personal liberty and exercise granted; he
+made himself approachable to those prisoners having a grievance, and
+in so far as he could within the bounds of true discipline, rectified
+them. Religious worship was fostered and encouraged; punishment for
+willful infractions of the rules and regulations governing the prison,
+sure and certain, by black-listing from special privileges, for a
+period of thirty days or more; the lock-step, by carrying on the yard
+an iron weight during working hours, and in extreme cases of fighting
+and other reprehensible misconduct, corporal punishment with a leather
+strap was inflicted, or by buck-and-gag. Other changes of a minor but
+not less ameliorative nature were made conducive to the moral welfare
+of the inmates.
+
+To bring about these humane changes many and substantial improvements
+were made in the way of buildings and additions without cost to the
+taxpayers, for the prison was more than self-sustaining, and a handsome
+sum of money was on hand for this purpose.
+
+
+PRISON LIBRARY.
+
+January 1, 1900, Warden S. A. Hawk completed the erection of a
+two-story brick addition to the prison dining-hall. The second story
+room, 40×40 feet, was dedicated by him to the use of a library and
+school. The fixtures were placed in the room but there were only a
+few mutilated books at hand to begin with. E. E. Byrum, President of
+the Gospel Trumpet Publishing Company of Moundsville, hearing of the
+situation, offered his gratuitous service to the warden to aid him to
+build up the library to a respectable proportion. Upon the assurance
+given him that there was no available appropriation to purchase books
+for the library, Mr. Byrum called the attention of the members of
+his company to this state of affairs, and upon their advice and with
+their consent, a splendid lot of artistically bound religious and
+other suitable books valued at $1,000 was placed at the disposal of
+the warden for the use of the prison inmates. So grateful were the
+prisoners, the warden, and prison employees at the generous gift that
+it was
+
+_Resolved_, That the prisoners of the West Virginia penitentiary,
+through Warden S. A. Hawk, tender their grateful thanks to E. E. Byrum
+and to the Gospel Trumpet Publishing Company, Moundsville, W. Va., for
+the very welcome gift of books placed in the prison library for their
+use.
+
+This fine gift of standard literature, including 500 song-books, was a
+nucleus for the building up of an excellent library, few equaling it in
+the state.
+
+Thousands of circular letters were mailed by the warden to the leading
+citizens of West Virginia and leading publishing houses of the country
+asking for donations of literature. The responses were generous—donors
+sending from one book to cases containing hundreds of books. One year
+after the opening of the library twelve thousand standard religious
+and secular books and magazines were donated. It is true many of them
+were second-hand and worn, except those received from the publishing
+firms—such as the people of the state could afford to give.
+
+The library represents to every inmate the warden’s desire that every
+one of them should feel that an opportunity for newness of life to them
+is open, and in such opportunity may be found an ample encouragement of
+good purposes and well-meant efforts. Better life, better men, hence a
+hope for the prevalence of improvement.
+
+A night school from 5.30 to 7.30 p. m., for two hundred and more
+illiterate white and colored inmates, ranging from seventeen to
+seventy-two years of age, was begun in the library at its opening,
+without intermission during every week-day of the year. The good result
+has been more satisfactory in the teaching of spelling, reading,
+arithmetic, geography, and writing than the most sanguine could have
+anticipated. Every one of the illiterate prisoners at the end of
+the year can read. The attendance of the pupils, thirty-two white
+and forty colored, being voluntary on their part, alternate nights.
+The prisoners are visited at their cells every Saturday evening by
+assistant librarians (who are employed in shops during the day), with
+slips in hand, and their order taken for whatever book or magazine they
+may ask for. The magazines are securely bound, three in one volume,
+minus the advertisements. The number of the cell is taken down with the
+prisoner’s serial number. The literature is carefully selected by the
+librarian and made ready for his assistants to place in the inmates’
+cells, and each book is charged to the prisoner by his serial number,
+to be kept for one week. If, however, the book is one that can not be
+read during the regular period of time, upon application, a further
+period of a week is allowed. The books issued the previous week are
+collected and returned to the library, there to be carefully examined,
+for intentional mutilation the culprit being black-listed and deprived
+of the use of books, at the pleasure of the warden. At the first and
+several issues thereafter illiterate and mischievous prisoners marked
+their books, but by judicious use of the black-list and reprimand the
+practice on the part of these culprits ceased, and they cheerfully
+refrained from committing themselves again, and they are now most
+careful of their literary treasures. For a period of seven months of
+the year no reports for mutilation of books have been made.
+
+The following are most in demand: Mothers’ Counsel to Their Sons,
+Pilgrim’s Progress, Fox’s Book of Martyrs, The Kingdom of God, Divine
+Healing of Soul and Body, Grace of Healing, Boy’s Companion, and
+Letters for Our Girls—the last being in demand by the female inmates,
+there being twenty-seven white and colored of them. Many books on
+tobacco and its effects were also issued to the inmates above named.
+The books are a part of the Gospel Trumpet Publishing Company’s
+donation. From close observation of the readers of all this admirable
+literature the good results are carefully and conscientiously given
+as follows: Mothers’ Counsel to Their Sons is in constant and steady
+demand from young men to the “manor-born” of West Virginia. They are
+a unique, original, and reverent body of criminals. Far too many are
+illiterate, possessed of high, lofty, and impulsive dispositions,
+their very souls throbbing with vitality, their eyes beaming with
+inspiration, doubtless inspired with the magnificent scenery of their
+native and well-beloved state. Their hearts and minds seem to expand
+with the thought ever present with them, “Mountaineers will ever
+be free.” While restraint is irksome to them, they are, however,
+sensitively susceptible to kind treatment. They love their mountain
+homes and hearth-stones and cherish with fond remembrance the parents
+at home, and they are keen to read literature that brings these close
+to their prison home.
+
+Pilgrim’s Progress is called for by older inmates from other states,
+white and colored alike, and also those from foreign lands, some of
+whom have enjoyed the benefit of early home religious training or have
+been picked up during their wanderings around the world and about the
+country. They seem to get much good from their reading of John Bunyan,
+his temptations, trials, and triumphs. All of these men continue in
+their demand for Gospel Trumpet literature until they have read all of
+the different volumes of the donation. A marked and decided improvement
+is noted in the good discipline and the attendance at religious
+services of all of the readers of good literature and the warden and
+guards are pleased with their exemplary behavior. The warden has found
+it convenient to stop altogether the issue of tobacco to the inmates,
+doubtless accounted for by readers of “Tobacco and Its Effects,” who
+are now non-users of the weed. It is to be hoped that the contractors
+do not issue to their employees as much tobacco as heretofore. May the
+use of it grow less until in as well as out of prison its use may be
+entirely eliminated.
+
+
+RULES TO BE OBSERVED BY PRISONERS WHEN USING THE LIBRARY.
+
+Rule 1st. Upon entering the library prisoners must promptly remove
+their caps and go to their seats in a quiet manner.
+
+Rule 2d. Chewing tobacco, smoking, or spitting on the floor is strictly
+forbidden.
+
+Rule 3d. Books, papers, or stationery required by any prisoner can be
+had by raising the hand and asking the librarian or teacher.
+
+Rule 4th. Undivided attention must be given to the teacher; his
+instructions promptly and respectfully obeyed, and the whole time of
+the prisoner who is learning must be devoted to study.
+
+Rule 5th. Books, magazines, and papers will be issued for not longer
+than one week. Care must be exercised not to mark, tear, or mutilate
+them in any way.
+
+Rule 6th. Should a violation of any of these rules result in a prisoner
+being reported for punishment, he will be black-listed, and denied the
+privilege of school or library.
+
+Rule 7th. The privilege of the library will be given to prisoners of
+exemplary record, where they will have free access to books, magazines,
+and papers, after working hours.
+
+  S. A. HAWK, Warden.
+
+
+LITERATURE FOR CONVICTS.
+
+The Greenbrier (W. Va.) Independent says: “A short time ago Judge
+McWhorter of our town shipped to S. A. Hawk, warden of the state prison
+at Moundsville, a lot of books, magazines, etc., donated by himself and
+others. We are permitted to publish Mr. Hawk’s letter to the judge in
+acknowledgement of the donation:
+
+“‘Your fine donation of literature came to hand to-day (March 10), for
+which please accept my sincere gratitude. I am gratified to inform
+you that from donations received from the generous people of West
+Virginia and some few publishers, I have about 10,000 volumes of books
+and magazines—the latter securely bound and covered. The library is
+indebted to the Wheeling Intelligencer and News for very many daily
+exchanges. The library room is 40×40 feet, handsomely furnished and
+fully equipped.
+
+“‘I have an evening school of sixty pupils—thirty colored and thirty
+white, boys and men—the hours being from 5 to 7.30 p. m. Their progress
+is very satisfactory. Taking into consideration that I sent out my
+appeal for literature January 20, 1900, I think that I have met with
+unprecedented success, for which I am certainly grateful.
+
+“‘I feel conscious that the new and more liberal system of discipline
+inaugurated by me since my management of the prison, and the many
+improvements made, is a duty I owe my charges and for the future
+protection of society, because these men feel that the hand of every
+man is not raised against them and that upon their release they will be
+encouraged to make of themselves useful citizens.
+
+“‘Assuring you that I completely appreciate your kindness, I am
+sincerely yours,
+
+  S. A. HAWK.’”
+
+
+THE BIBLE CLASS.
+
+Had been in an intermittent state of organization from 1890, with but
+moderate success. Some two years ago (1899) the Gospel Trumpet people
+took an active interest in the welfare of the Bible class, which meant
+that henceforth renewed and intelligent effort was to be made for the
+future. The class under the new order of arrangement and new infusion
+of God’s Spirit greatly increased in membership in a short period of
+time. To this class of earnest Christians the Gospel Trumpet people
+and denominational ministers of Moundsville give their attention and
+best effort in their respective turn, every Sabbath morning from 8 to
+9 o’clock. The commendable progress the members of the class have made
+in their work is to a large extent due to these ministers of God. Very
+many remarkable conversions have been brought about, and baptism given
+by the ordained ministers from the Gospel Trumpet office.
+
+
+NOTABLE REFORMATIONS.
+
+_Serial No. 2282_—A veteran inmate from Randolph Co., aged 56 years,
+received at the prison in 1892 to serve his natural life for the crime
+of murder, this being his second term for the same kind of crime. About
+twelve years ago he was pardoned by the governor upon well established
+grounds of mitigating circumstances connected with the alleged crime.
+
+For the second term he has been an inmate for nine years. He is a
+large man, six feet in height, with a good looking face and possessed
+of a warm and tender heart. His prison record is exemplary, and he is
+employed in the tailor shop, filling a responsible position. Four times
+has the Bible class selected him as their class-leader, recognizing
+his Biblical learning, industry, and signal ability at prayer and
+exhortation. He says that during the years prior to the aid given to
+the class at the hands of the Gospel Trumpet people, he was somewhat
+lukewarm in his class work. However, with their hearty assistance and
+material aid he took on a new spirit and inspiration for more and
+better work for God. He is much encouraged by the many conversions made
+and by the growth of the class. He canvassed for subscribers for very
+many Gospel Trumpet literary works; of these and the Gospel Trumpet
+paper, he is a constant reader.
+
+_Serial No. 2320_—Received from Cabell Co. in 1892 to serve a life
+sentence for murder, is a young man of fine education, culture, high
+resolve and noble purpose, a scion of Christian family residents of
+Ohio. The crime into which the unfortunate man was probably led appears
+to have been a concocted scheme made up and he enticed to join in,
+for the purpose of putting him out of the way in order to accomplish
+certain designs his enemies had against his life and property to be
+inherited by him. To make sure of their work the railroad officials and
+detectives were put on the job, so, when he and his companions made the
+attempt to stop and rob the railroad passenger train, they were fired
+upon by a posse of armed guards, which they returned, killing one of
+the passengers. He was seriously wounded, losing the use of his right
+arm.
+
+He was converted several years ago and baptized. His health has
+long since been undermined by confinement and he is in a precarious
+condition, but above all things else he is a true Christian and child
+of God and entirely fit to be pardoned and restored to society, home,
+and friends. He has served one year as leader of the Bible class, and
+owing to his lovable disposition, learning, and industry he gave entire
+satisfaction to his classmates.
+
+_Serial No. 2547_—Received from Fayette County in 1894, for murder,
+to serve his natural life in prison, age at the time 20 years, is a
+notable example of complete reformation within the prison-walls. He
+is a native of Virginia, raised to do hard work in the coal mines,
+where he was without much, if any, advantage to enable him to obtain
+an education. Possessed of natural abilities and doubtless awed by
+the shadow of the gallows from which a loving sister saved him, and
+the prison environments, he purposed to obey the prison rules by
+industry at his employment and civility toward the prison officials
+and his comrades. It seems also that early upon his entrance into the
+penitentiary he resolved to be a godly man. He taught himself how to
+read his Bible while in his cell at night. Attending the Bible class
+he learned how to pray. He gave his heart to God one Sabbath day while
+listening to a sermon. His classmates selected him as their leader and
+he served so satisfactorily that during the end of Governor Atkinson’s
+administration he was pardoned by and through the untiring effort and
+devotion of the sister who had saved him years before from the gallows.
+One and all rejoiced and prayed God that the Governor, at the end of
+life’s journey may be rewarded for the mercy he granted even unto the
+poorest and lowliest prisoner in the penitentiary.
+
+_Serial No. 2504_—Received from Berkley County in 1894, for grand
+larceny, to serve a term of twelve years, upon entrance to the
+prison started in to make it unpleasant for the prison officials by
+stubbornly refusing to work and by violent acts of misconduct. It was
+found necessary to punish him severely several times. He was one of
+the prisoners in solitary confinement when Warden Hawk took hold of
+the prison. He was released with others, and at once taken in hand
+by the warden for individual treatment. A good position was given him
+in the laundry and other privileges granted to him as well as good
+counsel given and amiably received. It was soon observed by the prison
+officials that he was a constant attendant at the chapel Sabbath
+services, then at a pathetic and prayerful invitation went forward one
+Sabbath day and gave himself to the service of God and was baptized. He
+was in charge of the Bible class for a while. He was recently released
+by habeas corpus proceedings on the ground that having been committed
+to the penitentiary on two sentences, one for four years and the
+other for eight years, from different counties, the greater sentence
+embraced also the lesser one, in that the date of sentence in each case
+commenced from the day of sentence.
+
+A close Biblical student and possessed of considerable natural ability,
+power of prayer and exhortation, it is hoped and expected that he will
+continue to be a worker in the Lord’s vineyard.
+
+_Serial No. 3595_—Received from Monongahela Co. in 1898, to serve a
+term of four years for grand larceny. Upon entering the prison he
+became an active worker in the Bible class. He is an exemplary prisoner
+and thought well of by the warden and prison officials. It is expected
+that, upon his release, his experience in prison will make of him an
+efficient Christian worker. Possessing some ability and ambition as a
+hymn-writer, herewith is a sample:
+
+
+“A BROTHER OF JESUS.”
+
+    A brother of Jesus, a comrade to fight,
+    A brother to conquer, and strive for the right,
+    A brother in daring, a comrade indeed,
+    A brother to venture, whatever the need.
+    A brother in spirit, when dangers surround,
+    A comrade in courage who stands his ground,
+    A brother who’s faithful, loyal, and true,
+    A comrade who fights, and fights his way through.
+    A brother for heaven, who stands by the cross,
+    A comrade obedient, whatever the cost,
+    A brother who’s ready and willing to die,
+    A comrade who will not his Savior deny.
+    A brother on duty, by day and by night,
+    A comrade who’s trusting in Jesus’ great might,
+    A brother so Christlike, O Savior, I’ll be
+    A comrade in purpose, sacred to thee.
+
+
+DEGENERATES.
+
+_Serial No. 4035_—Was received from Pocahontas County in 1898, to serve
+two years for horse stealing. He claimed upon his entrance to the
+prison to be a “preacher.” It is alleged by persons who know his life
+and character that he is an old and experienced horsethief, who had
+served many terms of imprisonment in the different penitentiaries of
+the country, and was looked upon from a criminological point of view
+as a moral degenerate of the first degree. While playing the role of
+a “mountain evangelist” in the county from whence he was committed to
+the penitentiary, he there applied his first and only calling, as a
+horsethief of the first degree. Upon his introduction to the prison
+he professed to be very religious, and stoutly maintained that he was
+an innocent man much maligned and persecuted. He was made janitor of
+the chapel, doubtless owing more to the fact that he was a cripple,
+having only the use of his left hand, and a glib talker and not of use
+elsewhere.
+
+He soon ingratiated himself into the good graces of the visiting
+ministers, who looked upon him more in pity than aught else, and they
+extended to him charity which covers a multitude of sins. He did
+active and good work, however. Upon his release from prison he made
+loud professions of reformation and made pretense of going to serve
+God and by so doing become a good citizen. It was, however, soon after
+his release observed by persons interested in his welfare that he was
+secretly treading the path of wickedness. Soon he was a fugitive from
+justice with big rewards offered for his apprehension and conviction
+for the larceny of many horses from the farmers of the state and
+of Pennsylvania. Sheriffs of many counties were on the lookout to
+apprehend him. Recently the sheriffs ran their quarry down and landed
+him in the Mineral County jail and doubtless he will soon be returned
+to his old familiar quarters, there to once more ruminate the error of
+wrong-doing. It might well be said of him with Pope, “Why formed so
+weak, so little, and so blind.” He has received another sentence of ten
+years in state prison.
+
+
+PATHETIC.
+
+_Serial No. 3984_—Under sentence of death for the murder of his
+brother-in-law, is an object of great pity. This man for the love
+of his sixteen-year-old boy murdered a man, for which deed the law
+demands his life. He and the man murdered were both wealthy farmers
+at Terra Alta, Preston Co., West Virginia. Last November (1900) his
+boy was arrested by the brother-in-law for breaking into the cellar
+of his house and getting drunk on his cider. He had him indicted,
+tried, convicted, and sentenced to the penitentiary for the term of
+one year, which angered his father, who took a shot-gun and shot his
+brother-in-law dead in his own barn in the presence of a hired man. The
+father escaped and lived in the mountains a month, gave himself up,
+pleaded guilty, and was sentenced to be hanged Feb. 15, 1901.
+
+His neighbors, who were kindly disposed to the erring man, at once put
+in circulation a petition to the Governor praying for a commutation of
+sentence to life imprisonment. His wife signed a remonstrance against
+granting the petition of her husband’s friends. However, the governor,
+in order to enable the condemned man’s friends to present the petition
+to the advisory board of pardons for their consideration, granted him
+a respite until April 13. Upon his arrival in the penitentiary he was
+permitted to see his wayward boy, and the scene between father and son
+was truly pathetic.
+
+
+HUMOROUS.
+
+_Serial No. 3715_—An illiterate white boy from Calhoun County, to
+serve two years for grand larceny for stealing a heifer, sensibly
+availed himself of the privilege afforded by the warden to attend the
+night school. He made remarkable progress in his studies, so that he
+could read and write a legible hand. He was so elated with his success
+that he stated before his release that he was glad he was sent to the
+penitentiary for stealing the heifer to procure money to take his girl
+to the county fair, for now he had a fair education and could get on
+better in the world.
+
+
+MEN EXECUTED FOR MURDER.
+
+The West Virginia Legislature passed an act February, 1899, viz.: “The
+sentence of death shall in every case be executed by hanging within the
+walls of the penitentiary and not elsewhere. The officers of the court
+imposing sentence may be present, and twelve respectable citizens, a
+physician and surgeon, and such representatives of the press as the
+warden may desire; and the condemned may by request have his counsel,
+ministers of the gospel, and such relatives as the warden may deem
+prudent.”
+
+_Serial No. 3745_—Colored, of middle age, who had served a term in the
+penitentiary for stealing, was brought to the prison in 1899, from
+McDowell County, to suffer the penalty of death Oct. 10, 1899, for the
+unprovoked murder of a “scarlet” negro woman. Upon his entrance into
+the prison he asked for and was given a Bible, which he constantly
+read during the time he awaited to be executed by mandate of the law.
+Ministers of his race paid him frequent visits, anxious to aid him
+in spiritual and temporal affairs. He professed sincere religious
+belief and that upon confession of faith he would be saved, yet he did
+not seem to accept with good grace the assistance offered him by the
+negroes.
+
+During his former imprisonment while he was employed to clean and
+scrub the guard-room and the main-building hallways, he frequently
+met the chaplain; so he made request to the warden that he be sent
+for to pay him a visit. The chaplain responded at once and devoted
+much of his time to giving religious consolation and words of good
+cheer. He, however, constantly maintained that he was innocent of the
+crime charged; that the negro with him at the time of the shooting was
+responsible for the woman’s death, by means of a shot-gun. He doubtless
+was possessed of a scheming mind, and hoped that he might by some means
+escape the penalty for his crime. Many negro prisoners as well as white
+ones deeply sympathized with him, for he was considered a “good fellow”
+when they knew him in prison as one of their number.
+
+A collection amounting to $50.00 was taken up from among the prisoners
+to pay a lawyer to procure a copy of the record of his trial to enable
+him to file an appeal to the Supreme Court for a new trial. The lawyer
+received and acknowledged the receipt of the money, making in return
+therefor full and profuse promises what he would do to save his life.
+He took and spent it for liquor, became drunk on the money, and did not
+turn a hand to save the life of his confiding client. The unfortunate
+man, hearing of the reprehensible conduct of his attorney, and the
+time near at hand for his execution, grew despondent and weak mentally
+and physically. He was baptized, professed repentance, confessed he
+murdered his mistress, and the night of his execution between the hours
+of 12 a. m. and 1 p. m. it was found necessary to administer powerful
+stimulants to brace him up for the trying ordeal. With zeal and courage
+his spiritual advisor prayed, counseled, and assisted him to the
+scaffold. His neck was broken by the fall and his death was painless.
+
+_Serial No. 3746_—A splendid specimen of the young mulatto, possessed
+of a fair education for one with the limited opportunities within his
+reach, by occupation a coal miner. He was received into the prison from
+McDowell County under sentence of death for the willful murder of a
+sixteen-year-old negro boy, while he was in an intoxicated condition;
+also to be executed Oct. 10, 1899. He asked for and was given a Bible.
+He was a musician, playing the guitar with skill, and possessed of
+a fine tenor voice he was fond of singing hymns, which he did with
+pathos, rhyme, and music, to the delight of his hearers.
+
+He stoutly maintained that his victim was not intentionally but
+accidentally shot by him; that he accidentally fired his pistol into
+the dwelling wherein the boy was domiciled out of his sight. Upon
+learning that the boy was wounded, perhaps fatally, he procured a
+doctor to whom he paid $50.00, all the money he had saved from his
+earnings, to save his life. The boy proved to be wounded beyond the
+hope of recovery and soon died. The chaplain also ministered to the
+spiritual welfare of the prisoner and became much impressed with the
+young man’s apparent religious sincerity and his plausible story of
+innocence of murder. So much was he interested in him that he made
+personal and strenuous efforts to save his life. The Governor was
+appealed to, the Attorney General was called upon for assistance to
+procure a copy of his trial record, and statements made by him were
+investigated, and the whole matter submitted to the pardon board for
+their consideration. After an exhaustive and painstaking consideration
+of the facts submitted to them the pardon board concluded that he lied
+and was in fact guilty, and should suffer the penalty for his crime.
+The Governor, after the conclusion of the pardon board was made known
+to him, paid the prison a visit. He called upon the doomed man in the
+death-cell, and the latter made to the Governor a most eloquent and
+pathetic plea to save his life. With tears streaming down his cheeks,
+the Governor kindly said, “Would to God I could do so, my boy, but the
+facts as presented to me are undeniable as to your absolute guilt.”
+
+Now knowing that all hope for escape from the gallows was gone and
+that he must die, he read his Bible, sang gospel hymns, and played his
+guitar. He confessed that he was in fact guilty of the crime and was
+now content to suffer death, as he believed he had made his peace with
+God. He was baptized, and his demeanor to the scaffold from his cell
+was admirable and brave. He firmly ascended the stairway leading to the
+death-trap, stood over it without a tremor while his hands and legs
+were strapped and the rope adjusted about his neck. When asked by the
+warden if he had anything to say, he replied in a manly and firm voice,
+“I have made my peace with God. I am guilty. The causes of my downfall
+were whiskey and women. Jesus will take me and I am ready and willing
+to die.”
+
+_Serial No. 3772_—Colored, was received at the prison in 1900, from
+Fayette County, to be executed for the willful murder of a prominent
+negro saloon-keeper who refused to furnish him more liquor when he was
+already drunk. He asked for a Bible, and when it was given to him he
+seemed to be pleased, and constantly read it. His attorney, however,
+was skilled in criminal law, and was an indefatigable worker. The
+prisoner, an intelligent colored man, peaceable and quiet when sober,
+believed that he would not have to suffer the penalty for his crime.
+Strenuous efforts were made by his attorney to save his life. The
+Governor and the board of pardon were respectively appealed to, but
+the guilt of the man was so conclusive, and the murder so unprovoked,
+that at all points his appeal for clemency was refused. He bravely and
+uncomplainingly paid the penalty decreed by the law and professed his
+belief in the saving power of Jesus.
+
+
+UNDER SENTENCE OF DEATH.
+
+_Serial No. 3944_—Committed from Wirt County, under sentence of death
+for the brutal murder (by means of an ax) of his wife and step-son, a
+child in years, the motive being to obtain money to be inherited by
+them, is a constant reader of the Bible, and at all times is ready to
+argue passages of the Scriptures with any one who will do so with him.
+His attorneys secured for him a stay of execution pending an appeal to
+the Supreme Court.
+
+_Serial No. 3972_—Colored, was committed from Kanawha Co. in 1901, for
+the brutal and unprovoked murder of a negro on account of some money
+won by gambling. He is a large, middle-aged, gross-looking negro, who
+has served a term in the penitentiary for stealing. From his life
+record he appears to have been a vagabond, gambling, preying on the
+people of his race for a living. He is possessed of some education, a
+glib tongue, and appears to have made some friends among white people,
+whom he says are his only friends and are the only persons who will
+give him any assistance in his effort to escape the gallows. He was
+to be executed March 22, 1901, but his attorney procured a stay of
+execution until April 25, pending an appeal to the Supreme Court. He is
+a constant reader of the Bible.
+
+
+AN INNOCENT MAN.
+
+_Serial No. 3789_—Committed to the prison in 1899 for twelve years,
+from Jefferson County, for the alleged crime, in company with
+other persons, of entering the Potomac river bridge toll-house at
+Shepherdstown and robbing Richard Morgan and wife, whom they bound and
+gagged, is an unfortunate victim of untoward circumstances. Evidence
+has come to light, proved by affidavit, that he is innocent.
+
+
+THE PRISON CHOIR.
+
+The prison choir is made up of a number of good singers, white and
+colored, the latter predominating. They are under the skill and
+direction of Mr. Chas. E. Woodburn, a well-known business man of
+Moundsville, who has devoted a number of years of his valuable time to
+these boys as well as to the chapel services, and aided the warden in
+providing amusement on holidays for the inmates.
+
+
+APPEAL FOR A PAROLE LAW.
+
+  West Virginia Penitentiary,
+  Moundsville, Jan. 1, 1901.
+
+Dear Sir: Gratified that the generous people of West Virginia have
+in response to my letters of appeal to them dated Jan. 20, 1899, for
+donations of literature enabled me to build up a library for my convict
+charges to 12,000 volumes of books and magazines, I desire to further
+trespass on their generosity by asking for your support to bring about
+another measure of reform, viz., a parole law.
+
+The parole law is in force in a number of up-to-date state
+penitentiaries with remarkable success, bringing protection and good
+results to society. It saves trouble to prosecuting attorneys and
+criminal judges, and enables convicts to gain their liberty solely
+through their individual efforts. For instance, by virtue of the
+criminal statutes a convict may be sentenced for the minimum of one
+year or the maximum of five years. The criminal judge upon conviction
+of the prisoner on trial imposes an indefinite sentence. The convict
+after the expiration of one year may become eligible to parole if his
+record is exemplary. Two reliable citizens are required to become
+surety for the convict’s employment and future good conduct, then he is
+paroled.
+
+Upon violation of any of the parole conditions, he is returned to
+prison to serve the maximum sentence. If the convict is a man of
+family, he is enabled to provide for them; and if he is a single man,
+he has a chance to become a respected member of society and no longer a
+menace thereto. Respectfully yours,
+
+  S. A. HAWK.
+
+
+THE WRITER’S LIFE.
+
+That the reader may know and perhaps become interested in the writer
+of this sketch of the West Virginia prison, he herewith respectfully
+and modestly submits to them a sketch of his life. I was born in St.
+Louis, Mo., in 1844. My parents, possessed of more than the ordinary
+education the poor people of Ireland were enabled to receive, journeyed
+across the American desert to California, having their troubles with
+the Indians and their Mormon allies. My father hoped to strike a gold
+mine and become rich, and in the new Eldorado build a home and surround
+his wife and children—a girl and boy—with all the good things of earth
+that money could buy. Soon after our arrival at San Francisco, the
+cholera made its appearance, the plague having been brought to the
+golden shores of California by emigrants traveling from the east by way
+of Central America. My father was stricken with it and died. In the
+Lone Mountain cemetery, of the metropolis of the Pacific coast, he has
+lain buried for years. The remainder of the family escaped the dread
+fifty-one disease. Mother was left to struggle alone in a strange land
+and among strangers to provide for her children. Not afraid of work,
+she did her duty to her children nobly, faithfully, and well. She now
+lies buried beside my father in Lone Mountain cemetery, twenty years
+gone by.
+
+The war-bugle of the Rebellion rang in my ears and woke me to the
+realization that I had a country to protect and to save. I enlisted
+in a California regiment of cavalry and served three years with some
+merit. Upon my discharge from the army I entered an Illinois college
+to perfect my neglected education, and after graduation I located in
+Kansas City, Mo. I began at newspaper work, and have continued in that
+line of work to the present time, with occasional lapses from it to
+engage in other and more lucrative employment. A soldier of the civil
+war, having been wounded, injured, and having contracted disease in
+the line of duty, I was prompted upon McKinley’s election as President
+to apply for a pension. I went to Washington, D. C., to press my claim
+in person with the Commissioner of Pensions. He turned me down after I
+had some words with him relative to his delay in granting to me that
+which was mine by legal right and title, expressed by the American
+people through their representative in Congress assembled, and in
+fulfillment of promises made to the men who saved the nation. Somewhat
+addicted to the drink habit, I became drunk at my disappointment and
+the next day I found to my surprise that I was in the police station
+charged with breaking into and entering a small grocery in Washington
+City, two miles from my place of dwelling. The alleged damage inflicted
+was small, but Justice Clabaugh, who had recently been appointed from
+Maryland, said to me that five years was little enough for the alleged
+crime.
+
+  Serial No. 378.
+
+[Illustration: Penitentiary of the State of West Virginia]
+
+
+
+
+LETTERS FROM PRISON OFFICIALS.
+
+
+PRISON LIBRARY DESTROYED BY FIRE.
+
+  Nebraska State Penitentiary.
+
+  Lancaster, Neb., March 7, 1901.
+
+Dear Sirs: Your consignment of eight books at hand, which is very much
+appreciated. We are doubly unfortunate at the present time, as we have
+just lost our entire library by fire. We realize too with you that
+imprisonment is the turning-point for the better in some men’s lives,
+as we see it exemplified here. At some future time we will send you for
+publication the views of some of the above men who believe they have
+been benefited by their prison experience.
+
+Thanking you again for the books sent, and in advance for any books you
+may see fit to send us, we remain, Yours respectfully,
+
+  ——, Librarian.
+
+
+  Clinton Prison.
+  Dannemora, N. Y., March 8, 1901.
+
+  Gospel Trumpet Publishing Co.,
+  Moundsville, W. Va.
+
+Gentlemen: The books and tracts so kindly forwarded by you for the
+use of the prisoners in this prison have been received, and the note
+enclosed to the warden handed me for reply. Having charge of all
+literary material that comes into the prison, I take great pleasure
+in acknowledging receipt of same; and would extend to you my personal
+thanks, as also the gratitude of those whom this material was designed
+to benefit.
+
+I am glad that the spirit of the “inasmuch” as inculcated by the
+Lord Jesus, in relation to those who are in prison, is occasionally
+manifested, and that the rush and friction of wordliness does not
+wholly shut out from view the moral and religious needs of the “men
+behind the bars.” The good people to whom you refer in your letter,
+who are endeavoring to supply our prisons with good and wholesome
+literature, are entitled to great credit for their efforts in this
+direction, in these last days of the dispensation. May the blessings of
+our Divine Master be with them in their good work. Sincerely yours,
+
+  ——, Chaplain.
+
+
+  Iowa State Penitentiary.
+  Fort Madison, Iowa, March 17, 1901.
+
+  The Gospel Trumpet Publishing Co.,
+  Moundsville, W. Va.
+
+Gentlemen: The books sent by you to the penitentiary have been
+received, and will be placed in the hands of the men. Thanking you for
+the same, I am, Sincerely yours,
+
+  ——, Chaplain.
+
+
+  Onondaga County Penitentiary.
+  Syracuse, N. Y., Jan. 17, 1901.
+
+Dear Sirs: Received three packages of books from Gospel Trumpet
+Publishing Co., Moundsville, W. Va., for the benefit of the convicts
+in our institution. Hope the gift is accompanied by the prayers of all
+concerned in the donation. Yours truly,
+
+  ——, Chaplain.
+
+
+  Kansas State Prison.
+  Lansing, Kans., March 6, 1901.
+
+  The Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,
+  Moundsville, W. Va.
+
+Gentlemen: We have received to-day your donation of books to this
+prison. We assure you that this gift of books is highly appreciated by
+us, and will be of great benefit to the inmates of this institution. We
+wish to thank you and others who are placing these books in the prisons
+of this country. Thank you for donations of the “Gospel Trumpet” to
+prisoners each week. Yours truly,
+
+  ——, Chaplain.
+
+
+BOOKS WANTED FOR FEMALE PRISONERS.
+
+  Penitentiary at Anamosa.
+  Anamosa, Ia., March 6, 1901.
+
+  The Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,
+  Moundsville, W. Va.
+
+We received this day one copy each of “The Kingdom of God,” “The Better
+Testament,” “Mothers’ Counsel to Their Sons,” “Divine Healing,”
+“The Secret of Salvation” (English and German editions), “Songs of
+the Evening Light,” a Bagster’s Teachers’ Bible. I find we have now
+seven copies of the book “The Secret of Salvation” in our library.
+We are obliged for copies of these and shall hope to inclose them in
+our revised catalogue which we hope soon to publish. You perhaps are
+not aware that we have a female department to the prison, but seeing
+“Letters of Love and Counsel for Our Girls” listed, leads me to refer
+to this fact. Your letter to the inmates is appreciated. Yours truly,
+
+  ——, Acting Chaplain.
+
+
+  New Jersey State Prison.
+  Trenton, March 5, 1901.
+
+  E. E. Byrum.
+
+Dear Sir: The package of books and tracts which you sent for the
+benefit of the prisoners in our state prison came duly to hand, and
+the warden desires me to thank you for your timely gift. I will see
+that the books and tracts are judiciously distributed, so that good
+under the divine blessing may come through the reading of such good
+literature.... I will be glad to have you send religious reading matter
+for the prisoners, knowing that with His blessing much good can and
+will be accomplished by such a course. One of the factors leading to
+a life of crime has been the character of reading allowed in the
+home. Parents, ignorant or indifferent, have permitted their boys
+to devour dime novels and kindred literature until their minds have
+become saturated with evil. Now the antidote is good reading for the
+poor victims of parental neglect such as you propose to furnish....
+Thanking you for the interest you have taken in the welfare of those
+incarcerated here, and praying the blessing of the Great Head of the
+church upon you, I am, Yours truly,
+
+  ——, Chaplain.
+
+
+MORE GOOD BOOKS DESIRED.
+
+  Louisiana Penitentiary.
+  Baton Rouge, La., March 13, 1901.
+
+  Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.
+
+My Dear Friends: Please allow me to thank you in behalf of the
+prisoners for the six books and Bibles you so kindly sent recently. We
+all appreciate the kind interest you take in us in sending the Gospel
+Trumpet and sincerely trust you will continue sending same, as we all
+very eagerly look forward to receiving it. If you have any more good
+books to spare we will be very glad to receive them, as we all enjoy
+reading very much. Again sincerely thanking you for past favors. Very
+respectfully,
+
+  ——, Librarian.
+
+
+  Allegheny Penitentiary.
+  Allegheny, Pa., March 20, 1901.
+
+Dear Sir: I feel very glad that you are now and have been for some time
+so deeply interested in an uplift of the moral forces in prisons, and
+that your laudable work may result in much good, is my sincere desire.
+We have no prison paper published here to send you. We have a school
+six hours every day except Sunday for the illiterate, a Bible and
+hymn-book for each man that will use them, a library of 8,500 volumes,
+hundreds of daily and weekly papers and magazines, Moody’s books and
+tracts, etc., by which we are striving to give light and spiritual help
+to the prisoners. Sincerely,
+
+  ——, Chaplain.
+
+
+  Connecticut State Prison.
+  Wethersfield, Conn., March 6, 1901.
+
+  The Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,
+  Moundsville, W. Va.
+
+Gentlemen: The eight books sent this institution, including a Bagster
+Bible and song-book, came duly to hand. The Bible has been given a
+life prisoner, the song-book went to the choir, and the other books
+were turned over to the chaplain—who is the librarian—to be placed in
+general circulation. Respectfully yours,
+
+  ——, Warden.
+
+
+  Idaho State Penitentiary.
+  Boise City, Idaho, March 8, 1901.
+
+  Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,
+  Moundsville, W. Va.
+
+Gentlemen: Yours of recent date enclosing letter to prisoners and
+referring to printed matter sent under separate cover at hand. The
+letter referred to shall be placed in a conspicuous place for review
+by the inmates of our institution. The reading matter will also be
+placed at their disposal. Be assured that this effort on the part of
+the “friend” who has paid for them is appreciated by the present Idaho
+Prison management. Yours sincerely,
+
+  ——, Warden.
+
+
+  Georgia State Prison Farms.
+  Statefarm, Ga., March 5, 1901.
+
+  Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,
+  Moundsville, W. Va.
+
+My Dear Sir: Your books received, and the Bible which is a very nice
+one. The song-book was sent to the female congregation for use by them.
+We have eighty-eight women there, some of them with good voices, and
+they sing well. We hope the words may prove a savor of life to them.
+The other books were sent to the male department, where we have one
+hundred and forty men and boys. We hope they too will prove a blessing,
+for the thing most important for a convict is salvation. I was pleased
+with the very excellent quality of books sent.
+
+  ——, Supt.
+
+
+LETTER FROM A SHERIFF.
+
+  Wheaton, Ill., April 23, 1901.
+
+  Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.
+
+Dear Sirs: I beg to acknowledge the receipt of a package of books and
+tracts sent me for the use of prisoners under my charge. Please accept
+my thanks for same. I heartily commend your efforts and work. Very
+truly yours,
+
+  ——, Sheriff.
+
+
+PRISON CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOR SOCIETY.
+
+  Jackson, Mich., March 22, 1901.
+
+  Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,
+  Moundsville, W. Va.
+
+Gentlemen: The above named society desire you to know of their grateful
+appreciation for the donation of several valuable books. They comprise
+a splendid addition to our C. E. S. Library, which is eagerly read by
+the members and others. Thanking you for remembering us, I remain,
+Sincerely yours,
+
+  6890, Corresponding Secretary.
+
+
+HELP SUPPLY THE PRISONERS.
+
+  Maine State Prison.
+  Thornston, Maine, April 30, 1901.
+
+Sirs: Your letter to the warden has been passed on to me. We are
+pleased to receive religious reading to be distributed to the convicts
+in this prison. I have an arrangement with many Christian friends who
+aid, so I am able to furnish some Christian book or paper to each
+convict each week. Yours in the work of saving the fallen,
+
+  ——, Chaplain.
+
+
+  Sing Sing Prison.
+  Sing Sing, N. Y., March 7, 1901.
+
+  Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,
+  Moundsville, W. Va.
+
+Dear Sirs: The books you sent for use of the prisoners in this prison
+have been received, and I thank you for the same. They have been placed
+in the library. It is always a pleasure to know that we are in the
+thoughts and consciences of the people on the great outside world....
+Thanking you for your gift and wishing you success in your efforts to
+lift up fallen humanity, I remain, Fraternally yours,
+
+  ——, Chaplain and Librarian.
+
+
+PRISON LITERATURE APPRECIATED.
+
+  Alva, Woods Co., Okla., Dec. 20, 1900.
+
+Dear Sirs: Yours along with the books you sent were received last week
+and, as directed, the library was placed within the steel cage, where
+the prisoners could have free access to it. We would love to say a word
+of encouragement to the good people who are interesting themselves in
+behalf of the poor unfortunates behind iron bars, but we have not the
+command of language to express our admiration of this most commendable
+and noble work. No one can tell the good that may result from these
+silent companions, read by the poor unfortunates when shut in from the
+world. While we have never hoped to start a reform in prison life,
+we have often asked for more Christian interest in behalf of the
+prisoners. Accept our humble thanks for this most generous gift.
+
+  ——, Former Jailer.
+
+
+  California State Prison.
+  Represa, Sacramento Co., Cal., Feb. 13, 1901.
+
+  Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,
+  Moundsville, W. Va.
+
+Gentlemen: I beg to acknowledge the receipt of eight books for prison
+library. We are very grateful to receive anything in this line, and any
+sent will be thankfully received. Respectfully,
+
+  ——, General Overseer.
+
+
+FROM A JAILER.
+
+  Guthrie, Logan Co., Okla., June 14, 1901.
+
+  Gospel Trumpet Publishing Co.:
+
+I am glad to address you with a few lines to inform you that I received
+a package of books and tracts for the prisoners in my charge. The same
+have been handed them to read. I am glad to say that they enjoy reading
+them very much. I take an interest in reading them myself and think
+they are the best books and papers I ever read, and a great gift to
+the prisoners. They seem to condemn them of the crimes that they have
+committed. I am glad to say that the gospel can not be preached plainer
+than your books and papers preach it. I learn through your books and
+papers what it takes to constitute the church of God. The prisoners of
+this jail send their many thanks for the literature sent them.
+
+  ——, Turnkey.
+
+
+  California Prison.
+  San Quentin, Cal., March 8, 1901.
+
+  Editor Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.
+
+Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your kind favor of books and
+one fine Bible for the prisoners. I have added the books to the library
+and presented the Bible to one of the most worthy and appreciative of
+the prisoners, whose letter I have enclosed. I believe our prisoners
+have been much helped by the distribution of your excellent religious
+literature and kindly gifts. I shall be pleased to receive any further
+contributions in this direction. Thanking you in the name of the
+prisoners, I am, Yours,
+
+  ——, Chaplain.
+
+
+  North Dakota State Penitentiary.
+  Bismarck, N. D., April 11, 1901.
+
+  Gospel Trumpet Publishing Co.,
+  Moundsville, W. Va.
+
+Gents: I have to acknowledge receipt of yours of March 21st and owe
+you an apology for not giving you an earlier answer to same. You are
+doing a good work which is, I believe, appreciated by the unfortunates
+whom you are seeking to benefit, as well as by those who have them
+in charge. This is a small institution; we have at this date one
+hundred and fifteen inmates, all men. The moral conditions are, I
+believe, fairly good in the institution but there is great chance for
+improvement and I will be grateful for anything you may be able to do
+to assist in that direction, and trust that I may be able later on to
+assist you in the noble work in which you are engaged. Respectfully,
+
+  ——, Warden.
+
+
+BOOKS USED UNTIL WORN OUT.
+
+  Kentucky Penitentiary.
+  Frankfort, Ky., Feb. 8, 1901.
+
+  Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,
+  Moundsville, W. Va.
+
+We have received from your publishing house a nice package of good
+books. I take this opportunity to acknowledge receipt of same, and to
+thank you kindly for this generous donation. The books are turned
+into the hands of the prisoners, who take them eagerly, and are very
+grateful for them. They are passed from one to another until they
+are literally worn out. Allow me to say in this connection, that the
+problem of criminology in this country must be solved by other means
+than the punitive, and retributive idea. We have been more than a
+century trying every plan that man can devise to check and cure this
+growing curse. We must turn to the means provided by God Almighty. The
+gospel of Jesus Christ is the only and true remedy. Disseminating good
+literature, and instructing in the ways of life, is a step in the right
+direction. I have made a study of the subjects under my charge, for
+nearly three years, and find that the man who fails to accept Jesus,
+and have his soul washed in his blood, in most cases leaves this place
+still a criminal. May God help us to lead them into the light. Many
+blessings upon you for your act of mercy. Very truly, your brother and
+co-worker,
+
+  ——, Chaplain.
+
+
+  Michigan State Prison.
+  Jackson, Mich., March 11, 1901.
+
+  Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,
+  Moundsville, W. Va.
+
+Gentlemen: We are in receipt of the very excellent collection of books
+you sent us for the use of the men in our institution. Please accept
+our grateful thanks for the same, and be assured they will be eagerly
+read and highly prized by the men. Too much can not be said of the
+beneficial influence of good books in the prison. Men will carefully
+read books in here that they would not look at outside. And then too
+they have time to digest what they read. Again thanking you for your
+kind remembrance of us, I beg leave to remain, Yours truly,
+
+  ——, Chaplain.
+
+
+  Dover, Del., Aug. 6, 1900.
+
+I received the tracts that you sent, and distributed them among the
+prisoners. They seem to enjoy them more than anything they have ever
+had in the way of reading. I shall be more than glad to distribute all
+such reading as that proves to be. Yours respectfully,
+
+  ——, Warden of the Kent County Prison.
+
+
+
+
+TESTIMONIES OF CONVICTS.
+
+
+FELLOW PRISONERS, TAKE COURAGE.
+
+  Moundsville, W. Va.
+
+Through the kindness of the warden I am permitted to present a small
+sketch of my prison life. I am glad to avail myself of the opportunity
+of relating my experience in the earnest hope that some one as
+unfortunate as myself may be benefited thereby. That this is written
+within prison-walls will, I feel, prove none the less interesting.
+The first night I spent in prison will never be forgotten. When the
+cell-doors clanged, closing in upon me, I felt my very heart sink
+within me. Then with a contrite heart I looked to Jesus, and spent the
+night in prayer. Oh, what a comfort he has been to me! I then and there
+made up my mind to follow in his footsteps, and devote my life to him.
+
+With a change of heart, Christ has ever been with and bountifully
+blessed me. I meet with great kindness from Christian people, and every
+consideration from our noble warden and his officers. Because I am in
+prison I need not be useless nor unhappy. I accept my situation as of
+divine appointment, and will try to be contented with it. Lamenting
+over the past will do no good, for I can not recall or change it.
+Complaining of the present will not mend but make myself and others
+wretched. Anxiety about the future will not make it any better. My
+heavenly Father has permitted things to be just as they are, and I know
+he loves me. I will therefore leave all to him. No rebellion shall be
+cherished in my heart, and no murmur shall escape my lips. My Savior
+has promised that his grace shall be sufficient for me. He will never
+leave me, but be a present help in time of need. Trusting in him and
+committing all to my loving Father’s care, I will do what I can. I
+will make the place where my lot is cast as bright and cheerful as
+possible, and work and wait with patience till I am permitted to go to
+my heavenly home.
+
+I am indebted to many of my Christian friends, to all of whom I extend
+my heartfelt thanks for many acts of kindness, of which one is in
+supplying me with a fine Teachers’ Bible and other good religious
+reading matter. My Bible has been to me a constant source of pleasure,
+it has dispersed the dark cloud of sorrow and let in the sunlight of
+God’s love. There was a time when I believed every earthly friend had
+forsaken me, and that I was only known by a number—the number on the
+books of a prison. In a cell, yea, shut away from the full light of
+day, shut away from man, I was lonely, friendless, forgotten—a boy who
+was once free as heaven’s sunshine, free as the birds whose songs I
+loved to hear. I remembered my home, my mother, the good-night kisses,
+the lilacs, the roses, the orchard, the swing, the schoolhouse, and the
+playmates. Then I thought of that beautiful and pathetic hymn, “Oh,
+where is my wandering boy to-night?” and I resolved that I would flee
+to the One whom God had appointed to bring forth the prisoner from the
+prison-house of sin. My brothers, you are not forgotten. If mother is
+alive, she is praying for you, and the God to whom she prays loves
+you. “Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love”; “and, lo, I
+am with you always.” He has all the angels of heaven working to help
+fallen humanity to be saved from sin. “Are they not all ministering
+spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of
+salvation?”—Heb. 1:14. And I am glad that I can testify to the facts,
+that behind prison-walls, in the dark shadows of a prison-cell, are
+sons and daughters of God, heirs of God, joint-heirs with Christ, heirs
+of salvation, and to these heirs of salvation angels are sent forth to
+minister. The angel in your cell waits, brother. Kneel and pray. “If we
+confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and
+to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”—1 Jno. 1:9.
+
+Can I, can you, live a Christian life in bondage? My answer is in the
+affirmative. It has been tested and proved beyond a doubt. I will
+recall the incident of Joseph. When he was a mere boy he was sold by
+his brethren and cast into bondage. He resisted temptation, even when
+he knew that in so doing he was taking just so many steps toward the
+dungeon. Gen. 39:7-20. In adversity, as well as in prosperity, he gave
+all honor to God. Gen. 41:16. He forgave his brethren when most men
+would have been tempted to punish them. Gen. 50:15-21. We can learn
+from Joseph’s prison life a remarkable lesson. That God was with him in
+all things was unmistakably true. He was blessed and elevated to noble
+positions. This honor he gained by his uprightness in his daily walk
+before God. Gen. 39:21-23; Acts 7:9. God used him as an instrument to
+unfold his plans. Gen. 45:5-8; 50:20; Acts 7:9-14. If Joseph, a mere
+boy, could walk uprightly before God and receive a blessing in prison,
+I or any one else can do the same by the grace of God, and by his grace
+I will. And again, Peter, the apostle of Jesus Christ, was imprisoned
+by Herod and was delivered by an angel through the prayer of the
+church, yet he could not realize that he was released from his bonds
+and imprisonment, but thought that it was a vision. Acts 12:4-9. Paul
+and Silas suffered bonds of imprisonment, and stripes of persecution
+for proclaiming the gospel of Christ, and during all their persecution
+sang songs of praise and lifted their voices in prayer to the Lord.
+Acts 16:22-26. If all of these men could offer so much praise to God
+under such trying circumstances, I or any one else can do the same, but
+only through his grace. By his grace I will. When we fully submit our
+minds to God’s mind and plans, then God will teach us the sweet lesson
+that “all things work together for good to them that love God.”—Rom.
+8:28. Trust him and open your heart to him and you will experience this
+peace which he gives to his followers, a peace such as the world can
+neither give nor take away.
+
+In conclusion I must say, if the dear readers could but hear the
+pleading, fervent prayers and the touching testimonies of these
+unfortunates, they would place a higher estimate on the prisoner, and
+by word and act help him rise, as it were, above his surroundings. The
+prisoners are given to understand by our warden that the prayer-meeting
+services are theirs, and let me say there are about fifty of the boys
+here who try to make the best of it, and in no single instance have
+they violated the privilege granted to them during this service. I
+consider it a privilege to stand up for God, even within the confining
+bars of a penitentiary. My brother prisoner, the Master is calling
+for you. Think of it, whosoever believeth on God’s only Son, a free
+and a full salvation shall he have, for God is both willing and able
+to save. “What must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe on the
+Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.”—Acts 16:30. Salvation is
+in the name of Jesus; “neither is there salvation in any other: for
+there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must
+be saved.”—Acts 4:12. “Choose you this day whom ye will serve.”—Josh.
+24:15. May God bless and uplift the fallen everywhere.
+
+  Serial No. 2282.
+
+
+SAVED BEHIND PRISON-BARS.
+
+  Washington Co. Jail, Potasi, Mo., Sept. 23, 1900.
+
+I was a very wicked man when I was put in here, but by reading books
+and tracts sent me I soon realized my condition, and oh, how I repented
+of my many sins and called on God for mercy! Now I am so happy to tell
+you that he freely forgave me all. Praise his dear name! Although I
+have been in here long time my hours have been sweet since I found
+Jesus. I expect to leave here in a few days for the state prison at
+Jefferson City, but oh, I have the sweet promise: “I will never leave
+thee nor forsake thee.” I have promised God that the rest of my days
+shall be spent for him who has done so much for me. I expect to work
+for God all I can while in the penitentiary, distributing papers and
+books that are sent to me for that purpose. Dear ones, pray that God
+may ever use me.
+
+  J. H. R.
+
+
+FROM A CONDEMNED PRISONER.
+
+  Santa Fe, New Mexico.
+
+Through the kindness of a lady in California a few copies of your
+paper, the Gospel Trumpet, have found their way into this prison (Santa
+Fe, New Mexico). Each copy has been met with a hearty welcome, and
+well read. This prison has about 230 men behind its walls. About one
+hundred of these men can read the English language, and are in need of
+the true gospel. If any of God’s children who read this feel that they
+would like to send a few copies of the Trumpet, or tracts, or any other
+spiritual literature to this prison, the writer will take pleasure in
+distributing the same.
+
+I am happy to say that I feel the effects of the many earnest prayers
+that are rising daily in my behalf. I am a condemned man and have been
+lying under a death sentence for over thirteen months. My case will be
+disposed of in August, and I need the prayers of all God’s dear people.
+Brothers and sisters, pray for me. I have many friends and loved ones
+praying that it may be God’s will to give me my liberty next spring.
+Will every one who may read this join us in this prayer, and always
+close with “God’s will be done.” Dear ones, I am only in one of God’s
+schools, and his great Spirit gives me strength to rejoice with all my
+sad trouble. I was placed in this dungeon April 4, 1899, and have not
+seen a star since. Oh, I know they would look beautiful! The sun never
+reaches my little palace; but I am happy to say, “There is sunshine in
+my soul to-day.” Have not been sick an hour since here. All the praise
+to my dear Savior. I am expecting to get my case reversed in August, am
+putting my trust in higher power than man. “If God be for us, who can
+be against us?”—Rom. 8:31. I know that I have the prayers and sympathy
+of every one that loves Jesus Christ and his cause, and when my case
+is decided I will let you all know the verdict through the Trumpet. My
+enemies are many, and I will ask you all to remember them daily, in
+your prayers. I love their souls, and my earnest prayer is that I may
+meet them all in heaven. Reader, meet me at Jesus’ feet.
+
+  W. B. H., Box 426.
+
+
+  Territorial Prison of Arizona.
+  Yuma, Ariz., Nov. 17, 1900.
+
+Dear Sirs: Our honorable superintendent gave me your letter
+accompanying some books and tracts you sent to the prisoners in the
+Territorial Prison at Yuma, Arizona, a few days ago. As it happens to
+be my misfortune to be one of the number incarcerated in this place, I
+take pleasure in writing you and telling my experience of what Jesus
+can do for a man behind the prison-walls. Like many others behind the
+prison-bars, no doubt, I enjoyed the blessing of being brought up in
+a Christian community, but had never been brought to the realization
+of the fact that I needed the protection of a loving Savior to guide
+me through this life, and like the prodigal son I thought I could take
+care of myself. But like so many hundreds of others that take no heed
+to their earlier training, fell into bad company, which finally led to
+the cause of my misfortune that placed me behind the prison-walls.
+
+At first the thought of being in prison, and loved ones at home, almost
+drove me wild. The days were too long, the nights too long; I could not
+content myself with reading, and could scarcely work. I thought I was
+the most miserable man on earth, and almost wished I could die. Finally
+I concluded to try to read the Bible. I had scarcely looked in a Bible
+for nine years, much less read a single chapter. So I secured a Bible
+and began at the first chapter of Genesis, and read a few chapters at
+leisure hours. I would mark the place where I left off and commence
+there when I had another opportunity to read. The more I read the more
+interesting it became; so I finally read it through. By the time I
+read it through I had become so interested I would take the Bible to
+the cell with me at night and read till the lights were turned out,
+and I concluded to read it through again and take more time in reading
+and try to get a better understanding of it. Before I got through the
+second time I was convicted by the Spirit of God. I realized that I was
+not only a convict, but a sinner. I accepted Christ as my Savior, and
+have been trying to serve him ever since.
+
+It has made a new man of me. The days and nights are now not too long,
+and I can work as though I were drawing a salary. The Bible is the
+most precious book in the world to me, and the longer I serve Christ
+the more I am determined to serve him the remainder of my life. My
+prayer is that every man behind the prison-bars may accept Christ as
+their Savior, while in prison; for if they wait until they get out, the
+temptations are too great and the chances are against them. My advice
+to my fellow convicts is to read the Bible; if it is not interesting
+at first it will become interesting; it will broaden your minds, it
+will make better men and women of you, it will help you to bear your
+burdens, and may be the means of saving your souls.
+
+I thank you for the books and tracts, and assure you they will be read
+and appreciated by quite a number of the men here, and trust God will
+bless you in your efforts to lead fallen men to the Savior.
+
+  R. C.
+
+
+  Jackson, Mo., April 4, 1900.
+
+We, the prisoners of Jackson, Missouri, thank you for sending us those
+good papers. We would to God we were able to express our gratitude
+for the Gospel Trumpet and to you for your great desire to help us to
+be better men. I wish we had thousands of such men and women as you
+are. I do wish that every poor soul in this world could get a Gospel
+Trumpet and read and see the great light it gives to any one trying to
+serve the true God. I desire your faithful prayers to help me bear the
+cross, and also wish the prayers of all your brothers and friends that
+I may be a better man. Pray God to deliver me from my enemies and out
+of this prison. I have a dear wife and six little children and want to
+return home to them. I will leave here to-morrow for Jefferson City Mo.
+prison, and hope to hear from you again. May God help you to help every
+poor soul.
+
+  L. L. B.
+
+
+  Charleston, Mo., April 18, 1900.
+
+In reply to your letter of April 16, it was kindly received by the
+prisoners in jail, and we were very thankful to you for those papers
+you sent. All the boys send their many thanks. There are nine here and
+expect to be here for quite a while, and would like very much if you
+only had some one come here and talk to us and bring us papers. Hoping
+to hear from you again and receive some more papers. Many thanks from
+all the prisoners in jail.
+
+  ——
+
+
+  Greenville, Mo., March 27, 1900.
+
+Yours of the 26th received with roll of papers. Must say we were
+glad to get them. We are glad to have plenty at all times. As may be
+expected, there are some in this prison who need something to encourage
+them, and should you deem it expedient you may send us some papers,
+such as you may think best to send. I for one need reformation and will
+be pleased to have your assistance in trying to follow the steps of the
+Savior. Your well wisher.
+
+
+  Jefferson City, Mo., April 10, 1900.
+
+We, the prisoners of Cole County Jail, received your kind letter and
+papers this morning. We are very thankful to you for your good wishes
+and appreciate your interest in us to help us to be better men. It is
+a matter to be deplored that in the great state of Mo. there are so few
+who would put out the hand of mercy to fallen humanity. Your papers
+will always be welcome, and we hope they will do the good you intend.
+With sincere good wishes we subscribe ourselves
+
+  Prisoners of Cole County Jail.
+
+P. S. A Bible and gospel hymn-book would be very much appreciated.
+
+
+  Nevada, Mo., April 19, 1900.
+
+It is with pleasure I answer your most kind and welcome letter received
+the 18th with joy and delight. There are ten men in this jail and each
+sends his thanks to you for your kindness. Nearly every word in the
+papers has been read. I am not a Christian, but I ofttimes wish I could
+be converted, for the Christians seem to be so happy, and I cherish a
+hope that I may soon get out of darkness into light. I was in here four
+months without any Christian influence or Christian papers to read, and
+my mind seemed to wander away to some unknown realm of darkness until
+the last night of March, when the door opened and we were presented
+with some little books, and on the first day of April we received
+another roll and also some papers which were sent to us by the good
+Christian ladies of Nevada, and you do not know how it brightened my
+hopes and prospects. It made me think that I had some friends to speak
+a word of encouragement to me. We like the Gospel Trumpet. It is a
+splendid paper for any one to read, and I hope I may have the pleasure
+of reading more of them. Your true friend,
+
+  ——.
+
+
+  Centerville, Ala., Sept. 9, 1900.
+
+I will answer your letter. I was glad to get your books; they gave me
+much light. I have been in jail a long time and you are the first one
+that has ever sent me anything to read. I would like to have some more
+books to read. Yours,
+
+  J. D. W.
+
+
+  Will County Jail, Joliet, Ill., April 7, 1900.
+
+We, the inmates of this institution, surely appreciate the
+consideration which you have taken in us. And as the County of Will
+does not furnish a library we the inmates will be pleased to receive
+any literature which you have to spare.
+
+  Inmates.
+
+
+  Georgetown, Del., Aug. 7, 1900.
+
+We received those little books and tracts, and we prisoners were very
+glad to receive them, although we are all sinners in this place. There
+are nineteen of us at present—seven white men and twelve colored men.
+We are treated very kindly by the keepers. Please send us more books.
+
+  From the Prisoners.
+
+
+  Hartford, Conn., Aug. 12, 1900.
+
+We have to again thank you for sending us books, tracts, etc. We fully
+appreciate the motives with which these books are sent, and are sure
+that they will bear fruit in due season. The books, etc., are very
+interesting and are looked forward to with great pleasure. We trust
+that everybody who reads them will be benefited by their teachings. And
+when we are permitted to go forth into the world again, we trust we may
+be able to render assistance to some needy brother or sister who is
+seeking to find Jesus. May God bless you in your good work. In behalf
+of the prisoners in Hartford Jail. I beg to remain yours sincerely,
+
+  J. W. C.
+
+
+  Jefferson City, Mo., Aug. 22, 1900.
+
+I will drop you a few lines in answer to yours, which I received, and
+also a package of books which I was also glad to receive, and pleased
+to hear from you. I am still trusting in God, and will trust in him
+until death. There are five boys in here beside myself, who are reading
+those books that you sent me. They think them good. It does me good to
+know they like them. I am going to live for God the rest of my days,
+and keep out of trouble. I have sadly repented of this, and I know God
+forgives me. I have promised my God that I will serve him the rest of
+my days, and I am going to keep it by the help of God. Many thanks for
+those books. From your saved brother,
+
+  H. T. B.
+
+
+FROM A CALIFORNIA PRISONER.
+
+  San Quentin, Cal., March 8, 1901.
+
+  Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,
+  Moundsville, W. Va.
+
+My Dear Friends: Your very kind letter addressed to the prisoners has
+been given to me by the chaplain to answer. It is a great consolation
+to the prisoners to know that there are good people in the world who
+sympathize with the unfortunate. The Gospel Trumpet has been eagerly
+sought after and read with interest and benefit by many of the boys.
+It is casting bread upon the waters of life. We frequently have
+it thrown in our faces—those who are trying to live the Christian
+life—that state’s prison is a poor place to come to get religion. Now
+I admit that this is true, also that it is a poor place to come to
+for any purpose provided that we are obliged to come as so many of us
+are; however, I thank God that I have found the way to a better life
+notwithstanding I am in state’s prison. It is better to find Christ
+in prison than not to find him at all. If we repent and ask Christ to
+forgive us, he is willing and able to forgive us in prison as well as
+anywhere else, and to cleanse us from all sin. I thank God that I can
+report victory through grace. Christ is able to save me and keep me in
+prison. The farther along, the brighter the way grows. Salvation has
+made such a radical change in my life that I can scarcely recognize my
+former self. God has so strengthened my faith as to banish all doubts
+and fears and filled me with humble, peaceful love. Thank God for this
+glorious change. I am indeed in full possession of a new nature; old
+things have passed away; behold, all things are become new. I received
+from our chaplain the elegant Bible which you sent. I assure you that
+I appreciate it very much and will keep it as a great treasure while I
+live. Those other books are highly appreciated. Surely it is casting
+your bread upon the waters of life. Christ said he that giveth unto the
+least of God’s creatures a cup of cold water will receive his reward.
+Your gift is a well of water flowing over, and God will reward you in
+proportion. Your brother in Christ,
+
+  ——, Serial Number 1055.
+
+
+PAPERS AND BOOKS SOLICITED.
+
+  Walla Walla, Washington, Feb. 19, 1901.
+
+  Mr. E. E. Byrum,
+  Moundsville, W. Va.
+
+My Dear Sir: A fellow inmate of this, the Washington State
+Penitentiary, has been kind enough, on two or three occasions, to
+permit me a perusal of your most excellent publication, the Gospel
+Trumpet. I feel certain that I have been benefited through the
+privilege, as within a sinful environment, such as obtained here,
+one needs the wholesome and uplifting encouragement that is breathed
+through the columns of your magazine. In one of your issues I note
+that you have a fund set aside the proceeds of which are devoted to
+furnishing Christian literature to those whose lack of means precludes
+them from otherwise obtaining it. Had I the money I would gladly remit
+for a supply, but isolated as I am I am unable to provide it, and
+therefore, if I may presume upon your charity, I assure you that I
+shall feel truly grateful for any remembrance which your goodness may
+prompt you to tender. Thanking you in advance for a response, I remain,
+Yours very truly,
+
+  ——, Prisoner.
+
+
+FROM A LIFE PRISONER.
+
+  Nevada State Prison.
+  Carson City, Nev., April 18, 1901.
+
+  The Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,
+  Moundsville, W. Va.
+
+Dear Friends: Your kind letter and the books were duly received, for
+which please accept my thanks. I read your letter to the men one
+Sunday morning just at the opening of service. The effect of its
+kindly expressions upon the men in general I am unable to state,
+but personally I wish to thank you. I have read your books and like
+them. I like the plain speaking which I find there, in denouncing this
+makebelieve Christianity. Above all men, the prisoner is quick to see
+the non-practice of the teachings of Jesus by his professed followers,
+and seeing it, they conclude it is all pretense. I speak of those who
+read the Bible. Consequently very few make any effort to lead a true
+life, and care very little for Christian reading. Of course they are
+wrong in that respect, as they have been in many others, but being
+blind they are unable to see, I know, and so does any one who thinks
+or reads, that our penal systems are of the most unChristlike nature
+possible, breathing more of the spirit of hell than of the spirit that
+lifts heavenward. Why our people will continue in this spirit I know
+not. Perhaps some time a true soul will arise in this special subject
+and bring about more righteous conditions. God grant that it be so.
+
+With many thanks for your kindly interest in the prisoner, and for the
+books sent, I am, with Christian love, Respectfully yours,
+
+  E. S. ——, Life Prisoner.
+
+
+  Jonesboro, Ark.
+
+Dear Friend: We received your letter and books. We were so glad to get
+them. We were playing cards when the sheriff handed them to us. We laid
+the cards away and went to reading, and the more we read the more
+interested we became. I have prayed to God to forgive me of my sins and
+I believe he does, and I want you to pray for me. There are three other
+men in here that have turned to God, and it all came about through the
+letters and books. We thank you for the Testament. Pray for us and
+please send us more of those books and papers. They help us so much.
+
+
+FROM A PRISON WORKER.
+
+The prison work is growing and precious souls are being saved. It
+is wonderful how readily these men accept the full teaching of the
+Bible, taking Christ as their Savior and Healer. When I read their
+letters so cheerful and so happy in Jesus, it makes me to rejoice.
+The work is spreading from state to state and calls are coming in for
+pure literature. The state prisons have libraries in them, but they
+are filled with novels (so the prisoners tell me), and they desire
+something better. When these books and papers are put in their hands
+they forsake the cards and novels and read something that will do them
+good. We thank God for those who have helped us so much in this work,
+but our need this morning is greater than ever because the work is
+greater, and we are praying God to touch the hearts of his people to
+supply the free-literature fund with ample means to send us another
+shipment of books and tracts. A prisoner in Jefferson City and one
+in Menard, Ill. have permission to distribute books and tracts they
+receive and they are faithfully discharging their duty. May God help us
+to keep them supplied, and not them only but other prisons as well. We
+do not feel like it is God’s will for us to quit the field now and turn
+it over to the enemy when souls are being saved. Let each one do his
+duty and the work can be carried on without any one feeling the burden.
+Your co-laborer in the work,
+
+  L. P——.
+
+
+
+
+_RELEASED FROM PRISON._
+
+
+A sentence to a term of years in prison in many states is commuted to
+“short time,” so many days being deducted from each month for good
+behavior. An attempt to escape or continuance in disobedience will
+require a full-term service. In some states there is a parole law
+where for good behavior prisoners may be paroled or given liberty to
+go anywhere in the state by reporting once or twice a month, stating
+their whereabouts, and at the end of a given period, if they do not
+abuse their privileges by leaving the state, they will be given a final
+discharge.
+
+The state of West Virginia has recently passed a bill to create and
+establish a free public employment bureau, which came into effect May
+15, 1901, as follows:
+
+“Be it known by the legislature of West Virginia:
+
+“1. The Commissioner of Labor is hereby authorized to organize and
+establish in connection with the bureau of labor a free public
+employment bureau for the purpose of receiving applications from
+persons seeking employment and applications from persons seeking to
+employ laborers.
+
+“2. No compensation or fee shall be charged or received directly or
+indirectly from persons applying for work, information, or help
+through said department. The Commissioner of Labor is hereby authorized
+to employ such assistance and incur such expense as may be necessary
+to carry into effect the purpose of this act, but such assistance and
+expense shall not exceed $500.00 per annum,” etc., etc.
+
+In compliance with this act of the legislature a free public employment
+bureau has been established at Wheeling, twelve miles from Moundsville
+penitentiary. This will not only be the means of furnishing men with
+work who have never been in prison and thus keep them out, but will be
+a privilege much appreciated by those who have just been released. It
+would be wisdom on the part of the lawmakers of every state to thus
+provide a similar institution somewhere near their state prisons.
+
+To the prisoner whose term has just expired we desire to give a few
+words of advice. You now start out in life anew. There are great
+responsibilities before you. No doubt many of you the world will
+meet with a frown, and look disdainfully upon you because of your
+past career, or that you have been in prison. Do not give way to
+discouragement under such circumstances; face the world with a smile,
+shun the places of vice and wickedness, shun evil companions; and on
+the other hand, seek society that will be elevating. If strong drink
+was at one time a temptation to you or the cause of your downfall,
+shun the places where it is sold or used as you would shun death
+itself. Likewise shun the card-table and pool-room, which only lead
+to a drunkard’s life. Always have courage enough to say No when evil
+companions seek to lead you astray. There is a God in heaven who will
+help you. Let not a day pass by without prayer to him for his direction
+and his protection. If you have never received a change of heart, do
+not rest satisfied nor cease pressing the battle on that line until
+you have obtained the peace of God in your soul, which is beyond
+understanding and flows as a river from the throne of God. You may
+have many temptations to fall back into your old habits of life, but
+by persistent resentment and applying to the Lord for help you will be
+enabled to come out victorious. I remember a few years ago a young man
+was released from a prison in New York because of his good behavior
+and was given an honorable discharge. He did not care to take up his
+old habits again, but as he wandered about from place to place meeting
+old companions and associating with them, he found great difficulty in
+refraining from picking people’s pockets, as he had been in the habit
+of doing in former years. When the temptation came upon him it was
+almost like the mania of a drunkard for strong drink, but by asserting
+his manhood and making a firm resolve and acting upon it, he decided
+to live a true and honest life. He left his associates to attend a
+religious meeting where he heard the gospel preached in all its purity,
+and there he yielded himself to God and was pardoned of all his actual
+transgressions. Although the effects of his sinful, wicked life had
+been so great that he had many struggles for months afterwards, he had
+taken a step forward and there was a marked change in his life from
+that time as well as in his heart, and soon he became established in
+the ways of truth and righteousness, married a respectable lady, and
+has ever since lived the life of the righteous and been highly esteemed
+by those who know him.
+
+A more striking illustration of the appreciation of freedom could
+scarcely be given than that of the recent liberation of the Younger
+Brothers. A little over a quarter of a century ago the state of
+Missouri and surrounding country were terrorized by daring raids made
+by the Younger Brothers and James Brothers, who formed a company of the
+most daring outlaws and bandits known in this country.
+
+These desperadoes were captured and incarcerated in prison at
+Stillwater, Minn., in close confinement for almost twenty-five years.
+It is reported that for fifteen years their lives have been reformed,
+and in July, 1901 they were liberated under the parole law with the
+restrictions that they were not to leave the confines of the state of
+Minnesota. Neither are they allowed to drink intoxicants nor lead a
+life that is anything but sober and industrious.
+
+[Illustration:
+
+  COLE YOUNGER.      JAMES YOUNGER.
+]
+
+During the twenty-five years of their prison life the outside world
+had made many changes. There had been many wonderful inventions, and
+when released they were like school children on a playground. They
+hardly knew which way to turn. The outside world was all strange to
+them. Although being men whose years number into the fifties, they
+went about as children, laughed and cried alternately for joy, talked
+by telephone, rode in an electric car, and enjoyed themselves in many
+ways, while kind friends aided in clearing away the mists caused by
+twenty-five years of awful solitude. In order to better understand
+their appreciation of freedom we here quote their conversation upon
+entering the city. Cole Younger remarked to his brother: “I assure you
+that this is the best moment of my life. Just think of it! From now I
+can act just the same as any one else, but I suppose it will be hard
+for me to confine myself to the new rules that I find on the outside.
+I have been accustomed to going to bed early, and I expect I will want
+to keep early hours when I get out. You can not imagine how I felt to
+put on this brand-new suit of store clothes this morning. Only once
+before since we came to this prison, a quarter of a century ago, have I
+donned citizen’s attire, and that was when I put on the deputy warden’s
+suit and sat for a photograph. My clothes look a little odd to me; they
+are not quite in style with my regulation first-grade prison suit, but
+I suppose they go on the outside. Bless God and our loyal friends for
+this moment, which is one of supreme happiness. For the first time in
+many years I feel relieved. I feel now as if a great unbearable load
+of some kind has been lifted from my shoulders, and that this is the
+beginning of a new life. Boys, I want to thank you from the bottom of
+my heart for your assistance.”
+
+Although these men were daring desperadoes when placed in prison, yet,
+notwithstanding the great reformation that has taken place in their
+lives during these years of solitude, we do not wonder that their
+actions were like those of children, when we take into consideration
+that they were both sentenced for life. We trust their future days
+may prove to prison officials and the world at large that the Younger
+Brothers are worthy of such a favor, and that their future career and
+this action of the Minnesota officials may be an impetus towards the
+liberation of every life prisoner, giving them a chance once more to
+delight in the freedom which men should enjoy.
+
+A few years ago, in conversation with the Governor of Colorado, he
+related an incident of a boy seventeen years of age whose mother was a
+widow. He came to Denver and one day while on the street met a young
+man who was a stranger, with whom he had not been in company very long
+until the stranger friend suggested that they take a ride. A horse
+and carriage was near by and as no owner was present the stranger
+proceeded to untie the horse and order his young friend to get in.
+Scarcely realizing what he was doing he obeyed. And away they went,
+driving as rapidly as possible for several miles, when they stopped
+and the stranger bade his young friend good-by, leaving him in charge
+of the horse and carriage. He was then to some extent awakened to the
+situation, but thought he would return the carriage to the place where
+it was procured, or if possible turn it over to the owner. But before
+reaching the destination he was captured by the authorities and taken
+to jail and was soon bound over to answer to the charge of stealing a
+horse and carriage. The Governor stated that at that time he was judge
+of the court. The boy and his mother feeling so sure that he would be
+released on account of his innocency, as he had not the least intention
+of stealing, did not procure a lawyer, and after the witnesses had been
+examined and the prosecuting attorney had made his plea, the Governor
+stated there was nothing for him to do only sentence the boy for a year
+in the state prison, although he said at the same time he was sure the
+boy was innocent.
+
+I would not feel clear in closing this volume without making a further
+plea to the reader, and especially all Christian people, to put forth a
+special effort in supplying prisons of every kind with good religious
+literature, such as will appeal to the consciences and hearts of men
+and women and lead them to a better way. Aside from our penitentiaries
+there are many thousands of jails, work-houses, infirmaries, hospitals,
+and places of confinement, which have been so sadly neglected that we
+even wonder how we can all be held guiltless in the day of judgment if
+we do not put forth some effort in this line. Aside from the good books
+and tracts placed in their libraries a number of good religious papers
+should be sent to all these places weekly. If you can not visit the
+prison in person use your dimes or dollars to expend in supplying the
+prisoners with good literature.
+
+With the knowledge of the fact that our own boys, our dearest friends,
+or even ourselves, are liable to be falsely charged and sent to prison
+innocent, our sympathies should be awakened all the more to help those
+who are guilty, that we may therefore lend a helping hand to turn
+them from the ways of sin and wickedness into the ways of truth and
+righteousness.
+
+
+
+
+  Transcriber’s Notes
+
+  pg 43 Changed: former passions crop out irresistably
+             to: former passions crop out irresistibly
+
+  pg 93 Changed: was sentence to be hanged
+             to: was sentenced to be hanged
+
+  pg 123 Changed: I am with you alway.
+              to: I am with you always.
+
+  pg 123 Changed: cleanse us from all unrighteusness.
+              to: cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
+
+  pg 131 Changed: Many thanks from all the prioners in jail.
+              to: Many thanks from all the prisoners in jail.
+
+  pg 133 Changed: surely appreicate the consideration
+              to: surely appreciate the consideration
+
+  pg 138 Changed: denouncing this makebelieve Cristianity
+              to: denouncing this makebelieve Christianity
+
+
+
+*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 75420 ***
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+      Behind The Prison Bars | Project Gutenberg
+    </title>
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+<body>
+<div style='text-align:center'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 75420 ***</div>
+
+<div class="figcenter" style="width: 85%">
+<img src="images/cover.jpg" alt="Cover">
+</div>
+
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop">
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<h1>BEHIND<br>
+THE PRISON BARS.</h1>
+
+<p class="center no-indent wsp lh"><em>A REMINDER OF OUR DUTIES<br>
+TOWARD THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN SO UNFORTUNATE<br>
+AS TO BE CAST INTO PRISON.</em></p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="center no-indent">By E. E. BYRUM,</p>
+<br>
+<p class="center no-indent fs90 wsp lh">Author of “The Secret of Salvation,” “Divine Healing of Soul<br>
+and Body,” “The Great Physician,” “The<br>
+Boy’s Companion,” Etc.</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="center no-indent fs80">“<em>Remember them that are in bonds,<br>
+as bound with them.</em>”—<cite>Heb. 13:3.</cite></p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="center no-indent wsp lh"><span class="smcap">Gospel Trumpet Publishing Co.</span>,<br>
+<span class="fs80">MOUNDSVILLE, W. VA.</span><br>
+1901.</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop">
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p class="center no-indent wsp fs80 lh">
+<span class="smcap">Copyright, 1901,<br>
+by<br>
+E. E. Byrum.</span><br>
+</p>
+</div>
+
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop">
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_5">[Pg 5]</span></p>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="AUTHORS_PREFACE">AUTHOR’S PREFACE.</h2>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p>Help a man who is in trouble and manifest a care
+for his soul, even though he is an enemy; it touches
+a tender chord of his hardened heart, tends to loose
+the binding powers of sin, causing him to look up with
+hope. Realizing the great neglect of duty toward
+them who are behind the prison-bars, unable to help
+themselves in many respects, inspired the writing of
+this volume. It was not the intention of the author to
+write a thorough work on this subject, but to call
+attention to a few facts concerning the prisons and
+jails, also the treatment and privileges of the inmates,
+and thus awaken the people to a sense of duty and the
+manifestation of a feeling of sympathy. The majority
+of people have never visited a jail or state prison,
+consequently know but little about them, and feel little,
+if any, responsibility on that line.</p>
+
+<p>About two years ago the Gospel Trumpet Publishing
+Company of Moundsville, W. Va., established a
+fund for sending out literature free to the poor, to
+jails, prisons, and wherever most needed. As much
+as ten thousand dollars’ worth of books, tracts, and
+papers have in this way been sent out during one year
+to various parts of the United States, Canada, Europe,
+and other foreign countries. Yet it seems only a
+drop in the bucket, as it were, in consideration of
+what should be done. It is our earnest prayer that<span class="pagenum" id="Page_6">[Pg 6]</span>
+the readers of this little volume will at once put forth
+the greatest possible effort to properly supply the
+prisoners and thus aid in bringing about a reformation
+in their lives.</p>
+
+<p>In order to show the result of some of the efforts
+put forth to supply the prisoners with good literature
+and their appreciation of the same, quite a number of
+letters from prisoners and prison officials have been
+inserted. While these letters have quite a similarity,
+yet it is hoped that their sameness will not destroy
+their interest in consideration of the fact that thereby
+the prisoners from a broad scope of territory have the
+privilege of giving expression to their feeling of gratitude
+toward those who have thus manifested their
+friendship.</p>
+
+<p>The names have been omitted of those who have
+written letters and testimonies; however, they appear
+in full in the original manuscript and are genuine.
+Only the serial numbers are given to those whose
+biographies appear in the book. We are grateful for
+the kind assistance of prison officials and prisoners
+who have kindly contributed. Further communications,
+or letters, from prisoners or any one interested
+in this line of work will be gladly received by the
+author. With an earnest prayer for the salvation of
+every prisoner, I remain,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+<span style="padding-right: 4em">Yours in Him,</span><br>
+<span class="smcap">E. E. Byrum</span>.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Moundsville, W. Va., July 4, 1901.</p>
+
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop">
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_7">[Pg 7]</span></p>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="CONTENTS"><em>CONTENTS.</em></h2>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+
+<table class="autotable">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl"></td>
+<td class="tdr fs70">PAGE.</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">In Prison.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_9">9</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Make the Best of It.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#MAKE_THE_BEST_OF_IT">12</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Punishment.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#PUNISHMENT">14</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Capital Punishment.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_22">22</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Life Imprisonment.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_26">26</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">The Dungeon.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#THE_DUNGEON">28</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Cat-o’-nine-tails.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_33">33</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Buck and Gagged.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_34">34</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Lock-step March.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#THE_LOCK-STEP_MARCH">34</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Literary Privileges.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#LITERARY_PRIVILEGES">37</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Tobacco Allowance.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_46">46</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">The Prisoner’s Work.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_47">47</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">The Stockades.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#THE_STOCKADES">48</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">The Chain Gang.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#THE_CHAIN_GANG">49</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">The Felon’s Cell.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_53">53</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">The Library.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#THE_LIBRARY">56</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">The Chapel.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#THE_CHAPEL">58</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Scaling the Prison Walls.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_60">60</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">A Prison Reform.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_64">64</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">History of West Virginia Penitentiary.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_73">73</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl fs80"><span style="padding-left: 2em">(As Written by a Prisoner.)</span></td>
+<td class="tdr"></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Letters from Prison Officials.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_107">107</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Testimonies of Convicts.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_121">121</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Released from Prison.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_141">141</a></td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop">
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_8">[Pg 8]</span></p>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="LIST_OF_ILLUSTRATIONS"><em>LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.</em></h2>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<table class="autotable">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl"></td>
+<td class="tdr fs70">PAGE.</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">The Black List.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#i017">19</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Cat-o’-nine-tails.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#i029">31</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Lock-step March.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#i033">35</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">The Chain Gang.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#i049">51</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Scaling the Prison Walls.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#i059">61</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Tracked by Bloodhounds—Captured.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#i067">69</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">Penitentiary of the State of West Virginia.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#i103">105</a></td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl">The Younger Brothers.</td>
+<td class="tdr"><a href="#i143">145</a></td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop">
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_9">[Pg 9]</span></p>
+
+<p class="center no-indent fs150 wsp"><em>BEHIND THE PRISON-BARS.</em></p>
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i007" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i007.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="IN_PRISON">IN PRISON.</h2>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+</div>
+
+<p>Our country is called the land of the free, but
+could we at one glance behold the thousands and
+tens of thousands now behind the prison-bars and
+know their irksome lives, there would be an awakening
+in hearts that have never known the bondage that
+exists in our midst.</p>
+
+<p>A crime is perpetrated. Some one is arraigned
+before the court to answer the charges as to whether
+he is guilty or not. The jury renders a verdict,
+“Guilty.” The judge pronounces the sentence a term
+in prison. The poor unfortunate is now considered a
+convict. Shackles are brought to make him secure,
+in order to prevent his escape. An officer accompanies
+him to his prison house, where he is to be in servitude
+according to the length of his term of sentence. No
+one but the prisoner realizes the awful feelings as the
+prison door shuts behind him with a clang, and he
+hears the click of the lock fastening him in an iron
+cell. Whether innocent or guilty, he feels the awful
+disgrace upon himself and his friends. It would not<span class="pagenum" id="Page_10">[Pg 10]</span>
+seem so bad if only the guilty were brought to justice in
+this way, but ofttimes the facts reveal that not only
+hundreds, but thousands, of innocent persons are thus
+sentenced and brought into disgrace, many of them
+serving a life sentence.</p>
+
+<p>There are two sides to prison life—a bright side, and
+a dark side. It may be a query in the minds of some
+how there could be any enjoyment or any bright side
+to such a life, but this will be clearly shown in other
+chapters in this book. There are many things that go
+to make the prison life a dark one. Viewing the
+matter from a natural standpoint, with no one to
+look to but human help, the way does truly often
+look dark and dreary. There are prisons where men
+are cast into dungeons and left to almost starve to
+death, or they are bound hand and foot and beaten
+with the cat-o-nine tails, or hanged by the thumbs, or
+made to pass through some severe ordeal of punishment
+that is almost beyond human endurance. Even
+in our own country there are yet stockades wherein
+prisoners do not receive treatment that would elevate
+them nor fit them for the higher circles of society.
+Many of these stockades wherein prisoners have been
+kept during the years past have been but little, if any,
+better in many respects than were the Andersonville
+or Libby prisons during the Rebellion. There are exceptional
+cases to be sure. During the past year a
+number of the states have not properly provided for
+their prisoners. It has not been an uncommon thing<span class="pagenum" id="Page_11">[Pg 11]</span>
+in some of these stockades to see a gang of men
+shackled together with chains, obliged to go about
+with the clanking chains to their feet, under rigid
+rules, and having to suffer the severe treatment of
+wicked and ungodly guards.</p>
+
+<p>The National Prison Association, which is generally
+represented by officers from the various prisons
+throughout the United States, have for a number of
+years met annually to discuss the best modes of handling
+and caring for the prisoners. Various methods
+have been set forth. Experiments have been made,
+and too often it is the case that hard-hearted officers
+have used the most excruciating means and hard-heartedness
+in their dealings toward their prisoners,
+in order to keep them in subjection. Some officers
+deem it necessary to speak to prisoners in the sternest
+possible manner, imagining that being cross, gruff,
+and surly toward them will make them feel a subordination
+that can be brought about in no other way.
+This only deepens the sorrows of the poor unfortunate
+prisoner and tends to harden his heart and affections.
+Such officers forget that kind looks, gentle actions,
+and words of encouragement fitly spoken will elevate
+a man and encourage him to show his manhood and
+return the love by putting forth his best efforts to
+show his appreciation of kindness. It is true there
+are hard-hearted men in prison, men who would kill a
+man for a trifle, whose consciences are seared over, as
+it were, yet there are comparatively few men so hard-hearted<span class="pagenum" id="Page_12">[Pg 12]</span>
+but can be touched by love and kindness.
+There are times when more severe punishment must
+be inflicted, but the warden and prison officers who
+continually show forth kindness toward the prisoners,
+greeting them with a smile and words of encouragement,
+have but little trouble in bringing about a great
+reform in the lives of those under their charge.</p>
+
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i010" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i010.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="MAKE_THE_BEST_OF_IT">MAKE THE BEST OF IT.</h2>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p>There are thousands in prisons whose hands have
+been stained with the blood of their fellow men;
+others whose hearts are hardened in sin and their lives
+blackened with many crimes; while again, there are
+those who are innocent, and some who have been cast
+into prison for Christ’s sake. But whether innocent
+or guilty, the most expedient thing is to make the best
+of the situation. Worrying over the separation from
+friends, the disgrace that is brought about, and bewailing
+the condition of things in general, will by no
+means help the matter. If a sin or crime has been
+committed it is not hidden from the God of heaven,
+and though the prisoner maybe shut in for years he can
+have the soul liberated from all the sins committed,
+by confessing them unto the Lord, calling upon him,
+and believing that he does forgive; as the Bible tells
+us in 1 Jno. 1:9 that, “if we confess our sins, he is
+faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse
+us from all unrighteousness.”</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_13">[Pg 13]</span></p>
+
+<p>The dear prisoner should make a decision for the
+right at once, cast away his gloom, doubts, and fears,
+and remember the words of the apostle, who urges
+people to cast their care upon the Lord, for he careth
+for them. He is a very present help in time of trouble.
+By the help of Almighty God the prisoner can yet
+make his mark in the world. He can rise above every
+foe and be of some use before his life closes. While
+he is in the midst of the most desperate characters in
+the land, yet he can have good associates. He can
+commune with God when alone in his cell. He can
+call for good books and holy literature, read the Bible,
+and make every effort to please the Lord and those
+around him. He can so live that even the prison walls
+will be a hallowed spot unto him. It was while John
+Bunyan was serving a twelve-year sentence in prison that
+he wrote the notable book “The Pilgrim’s Progress,”
+which has been a help and comfort to multitudes of
+people. He no doubt worked often under adverse
+circumstances and completed his work through many
+difficulties and much hard labor. Likewise Martin
+Luther translated the New Testament while in prison,
+and wrote a number of other valuable works. The
+apostle Paul wrote a number of his epistles while in
+prison. He and others with him sometimes were
+punished by stripes until they were left lacerated and
+bleeding, then cast into prison and bound hand and
+foot. It was under such circumstances that one time
+Paul and Silas were found praising the Lord, singing<span class="pagenum" id="Page_14">[Pg 14]</span>
+and shouting at the midnight hour, when the Lord
+sent an earthquake and rent the prison walls, throwing
+open the doors and loosing the shackles, setting
+them free; but they did not flee from the prison until
+they received proper orders. It was their faithfulness
+that caused the jailer to ask what he should do to be
+saved. Paul told him to believe on the Lord Jesus
+Christ. The generous jailor then took the brethren
+and washed their stripes and properly cared for them,
+and soon they were dismissed and sent on their way.
+It often happens that some must suffer an unjust punishment.
+To such we can only say, Be of good
+courage; look up and trust for better days.</p>
+
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i010a2" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i010.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="PUNISHMENT">PUNISHMENT.</h2>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+</div>
+
+<p>People are sentenced to a term in prison on account
+of crime committed. There are two systems of punishment.
+One is called punitive or retributive system,
+the other the corrective or reformative. Until within
+the last few years the punitive system was almost the
+exclusive one. However, our humane officers, prison
+officials, lawmakers and statesmen are not only learning
+better ways of bringing men and women thus incarcerated
+into subjection, but in many places are
+making and enforcing laws which require that prisoners
+be more humanely treated and receive better care
+and accommodations. Men have resorted to almost<span class="pagenum" id="Page_15">[Pg 15]</span>
+every possible device in order to make bad men good
+and raise them from ignorance to intelligence, and in
+so doing have inflicted the most severe punishment,
+causing the prisoners to pass through severest ordeals
+and most terrible sufferings imaginable. When we
+say there has been a radical change in many of our
+prisons in the land in discarding the severe corporal
+punishment, we do not wish to convey the idea that all
+prisons have yet accepted the more humane ways of
+governing the prisoners under their charge. When we
+say some of these punishments have been and are yet
+severe it does not fully express the facts of the case.
+The word “severe” is not a strong enough word. There
+have been and are yet punishments that are brutal—brutal
+to the extreme. Many prisoners who are within
+the prison walls carry the deep lash marks of the
+whip; the unjointed and deformed thumbs resulting
+from the punishment of being hanged by the thumbs;
+and there are other deformities. Many of us can no
+doubt remember the time of our early days in the
+country school when the schoolmaster was almost
+constantly with a beach or birch whip in his hand,
+something equal to an ox goad. This instrument for
+correcting the youths of our land and bringing them
+into subjection, when not in the schoolmaster’s
+hand was in the corner near by and was generally
+freely used. There have been, however, such a radical
+change and better modes of government brought
+about, that many schools are taught without once<span class="pagenum" id="Page_16">[Pg 16]</span>
+using such an instrument of punishment. If such a
+successful change has been made in our public schools,
+surely as radical a change can be made in our prisons,
+to take the place of the brutality of the past. Concerning
+the easy government of the prisoners there is
+much that depends upon those in charge of the prisoners.
+The warden, chaplain, and prison guards who
+have direct care of the prisoners should be good,
+whole-souled men, kind and benevolent, and who are
+capable of appreciating the good traits of a man even
+though they may be covered by many dark ones. They
+should be good readers of human nature and understand
+the dispositions of those under their charge.
+They should be firm and unyielding to their trust, yet
+loving and tender.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Meade, warden of the state prison at Auburn,
+N. Y., says: “Till the nature of criminals undergoes a
+complete change, nay, till the nature of man is much
+altered, there will be times when punishment must be
+inflicted on prisoners. Much as we have gained on
+using the modern reformed treatment, and much as
+we may justly expect to gain in the future, the fact
+remains that there are times in the prison life of men
+when the results of their former passions crop out irresistibly,
+making them for a time not accessible to
+friendly reproof. At such times, for the effect it has
+on others, but quite as much for its effect on its
+misdemeanant, it is necessary to forcibly bring him to
+recognition of his obligations and his duty. But to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_17">[Pg 17]</span>
+my mind forcible restraining, or to employ the common
+term, punishing a convict, does not require the
+use of the paddle or other instruments of torture;
+furthermore, in my judgment, such process should be
+condemned in the strongest terms. For they tend to
+imbitter not only the man punished but all prisoners
+against the officers of the prison, the rules of the
+prison, and law itself. One instance of the use of the
+paddle would do more to destroy the desired friendly
+relation between officers and men than many months
+of considerate treatment could restore. No! Experience
+has proved to me that when it is imperative that
+an inmate be punished, the screened cell or dungeon
+without discretion furnishes an effective mode. Such
+cells should be kept dry and well ventilated, but
+wholly devoid of furnishings. Confining men thus
+and supplying them with a very limited amount of food
+and water has, in the great majority of cases which
+have come under my observation, speedily brought the
+desired result of making a man see the advisibility of
+abiding by the regulations of the institution.”</p>
+
+<p>There are also other ways, however, of vividly impressing
+the minds of those who are disorderly, or
+who insist on not observing the prison rules. Most
+prisons have what is called “short time;” that is, for
+good behavior their sentence is shortened so many
+days each month, and in some prisons a certain percentage
+of the worth of their labor is placed to their
+credit for good behavior. One of the effective ways of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_18">[Pg 18]</span>
+bringing them to time when they become stubborn and
+rebellious, refusing to obey the rules, is to withhold
+the commutation, or short time, and also deduct so
+much of the compensation money that has been placed
+to their credit. This is generally much more effective
+and pleads to the reason and common sense of the
+prisoner more than some forcible persuasion by way of
+corporal punishment.</p>
+
+<p>For certain offences some are black-listed to be punished
+in various ways. One is, during working hours
+or while others are resting or at services on Sunday,
+the disobedient convict is to march for a few hours
+around the prison square and carry a heavy piece of
+railroad iron, weighing from fifty to one hundred
+pounds.</p>
+<br>
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp100" id="i017" style="max-width: 62.5em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i017.jpg" alt="The Black List">
+  <figcaption class="caption"><p class="center no-indent">The Black List.</p></figcaption>
+</figure>
+<br>
+
+<p>Captain Smith, a few years ago, in giving his biennial
+report of the Kansas prison, said: “The discipline
+has been carefully looked after and as a general
+thing prisoners yield to a strict discipline better than
+most people think. They seem to see and realize the
+necessity of rules and very seldom complain, if they
+violate them, at the punishment that is sure to follow.
+Our punishments are of such a character that they do
+not degrade. Kansas, when she established her
+penitentiary, prohibited corporal punishment. She is
+one of the few states that by law prohibits the use of
+the whip and strap, taking the position that it is better
+to use kindness than to resort to brutal measures. I
+have often been told, and that too by old prison men,
+<span class="pagenum" id="Page_21">[Pg 21]</span>that it is impossible to run a prison and have first-class
+discipline without the whip. Such is not my experience.
+We have had within our walls perhaps as
+desperate men as ever received a sentence. We have
+controlled them and have maintained a good discipline
+second to none in the country. How did we accomplish
+this? Our answer is, By being kind but firm, treating
+a man, although a prisoner, as a man, and if he
+violates rules, lock him up and give him an opportunity
+to commune with himself and his Maker; also
+give him to understand that he is the executioner of
+his own sentence, and when he concludes that he can
+do right, release him. It matters not how vicious,
+how stubborn, or what kind of a temper he may
+have, when left with no one to talk to and an
+opportunity to cool down and with the knowledge
+that when he comes to the conclusion that he will do
+better he can be released, he leaves the cell feeling very
+different from the prisoner who leaves the whipping-post
+after having received any number of lashes that
+the brutal officer may desire to inflict. One goes to
+his work cheerful and determined to behave himself;
+the other dogged, revengeful, and completely humiliated,
+only lives in hope that he may at some time
+take his revenge upon the person that ordered or inflicted
+the punishment and upon the state or country
+that would by its laws tolerate such a brutal or
+slavish practice.”</p>
+
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i010aa" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i010.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_22">[Pg 22]</span></p>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="CAPITAL_PUNISHMENT">CAPITAL PUNISHMENT.</h2>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+</div>
+
+<p>Being put to death for crime or some misdemeanor
+is termed capital punishment. This is not the most
+painful but is the most heinous of all punishments.
+It is a heathenish practice, yet men make laws, sit in
+judgment, render decisions, pronounce sentences, and
+thereby shed the blood of their fellow men, trying to
+hide behind the laws that are made, trying to screen
+themselves by the Bible, hoping all will be well in the
+day of judgment. Because of such lawmakers and lawyers,
+many are sentenced and hurled into eternity without
+being prepared to meet God. Will God hold us innocent
+if we do such things? or if we cry not out against
+such, will he not look down upon a government and
+nation stained with human blood? Surely there is guilt
+that must be removed. When the judge rises and
+pronounces the death sentence, to ease his conscience
+in the matter he sometimes quotes from Genesis 9:6:
+“Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood
+be shed.” Even though that scripture could apply in
+such cases in those days, it can not at the present
+time. It is true that under the law of Moses life was
+given for life as a punishment. For many trivial things
+people were stoned to death, even for the breaking of
+the Sabbath.</p>
+
+<p>“Then thou shalt give life for life, eye for eye, tooth
+for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burning for<span class="pagenum" id="Page_23">[Pg 23]</span>
+burning, wound for wound, stripe for stripe.”—Ex.
+21:23-25.</p>
+
+<p>“Then thine eye shall not pity; but life shall go for
+life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot
+for foot.”—Deut. 19:21.</p>
+
+<p>“And he that killeth any man shall surely be put to
+death. And he that killeth a beast shall make it good;
+beast for beast. And if a man cause a blemish in his
+neighbor; as he hath done, so shall it be done to him;
+breach for breach, eye for eye, tooth for tooth: as he
+hath caused a blemish in a man, so shall it be done to
+him again. And he that killeth a beast, he shall
+restore it: and he that killeth a man, he shall be put
+to death.”</p>
+
+<p>We are not living under the law of Moses in this day
+and age of the world, neither are we justified by the
+law, but we are living in a different dispensation. Paul
+says the law of Moses was a law of bondage, and
+through Jesus Christ we are free from that bondage.
+The law of Moses and the prophets were until John
+(Luke 16:16), and we now live in the dispensation of
+the gospel of Jesus Christ, and nowhere does he give
+men the privilege of making and enforcing laws that
+would make the taking of man’s life justifiable. We
+do not read the instructions of Jesus Christ to be
+“Life for life, eye for eye, and tooth for tooth,”
+neither by way of rendering the sentence of the law
+upon those who have taken the life of their fellow
+man, nor by acting upon the impulse in taking<span class="pagenum" id="Page_24">[Pg 24]</span>
+revenge for personal offence or injury. In speaking
+of the law of Moses and what was written concerning
+the people of olden times, Jesus in that memorable
+sermon on the mount said: “Ye have heard that it
+hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a
+tooth: but I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but
+whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to
+him the other also.”—Matt. 5:38, 39. Jesus Christ
+taught the law of love, even taught that we should
+love our enemies and do good to them that hate us
+and despitefully use us. He taught that people should
+show mercy to their fellow men. Even when wicked
+Cain slew his brother Abel because of a slight offence,
+and though he feared that men would put him to
+death, God gave him to understand that he would not
+have him put to death, but that he should be protected
+from such a penalty, although his hands were stained
+with his brother’s blood.</p>
+
+<p>In Galatians 5:4 Paul gave the people to understand
+that they were not justified by the law of Moses;
+he said: “Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever
+of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen
+from grace.” Neither are people justified in the sight
+of God for making and enforcing laws that will take
+the life of their fellow men. Merely quoting the
+words, “Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall
+his blood be shed,” will not remove the guilt. To call
+such lawmaking and enforcement heathenism does
+not give full expression to the subject; nay, it is barbarism<span class="pagenum" id="Page_25">[Pg 25]</span>
+in the extreme. Some may severely criticize
+these terms and the views expressed here, but we
+fearlessly assert that such is truth. We are glad to
+know that a few states in our so-called land of liberty
+have become awakened on this line and refuse to make
+or enforce such a law. Those who still try to hide
+behind the law of Moses, why not carry out that law
+in full and stone to death every man or woman who
+breaks the Sabbath?</p>
+
+<p>There is another side to the picture. It is sometimes
+the case that a man who is put to death is innocent
+of the crime for which he is charged. Whether
+innocent or guilty, a great number of those thus punished
+pass into eternity unsaved. With many of them
+it has been an act performed on the impulse of the
+moment. Their former lives, perhaps, have been
+upright, viewing them from a standpoint of morality.
+Again, it is often the case that a family is left in a
+critical condition to battle for life with this cold
+world. A delicate wife with helpless children must
+thus be weighed down in sorrow and bereavement,
+poverty staring them in the face, crushed with shame
+and disgrace, with no one to provide for them and no
+help nor special protection from the state whose laws
+have forever removed the one to whom they looked for
+maintenance and protection.</p>
+
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i010ab" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i010.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_26">[Pg 26]</span></p>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="LIFE_IMPRISONMENT">LIFE IMPRISONMENT.</h2>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+</div>
+
+<p>Life imprisonment is an unjust sentence. Life prisoners
+are those who have received their sentence for
+murdering a fellow being. In many cases, however,
+they can not really be classed as criminals. They are
+victims of circumstances. The deed was not premeditated
+but was brought about on the impulse of the
+moment. The sentence of a lifelong imprisonment
+forever deprives of the liberties of freedom and the
+association of friends and relatives, and the only hope
+of freedom is an escape, then to remain a fugitive
+from justice. Mr. Meade in his report suggests that
+the life prisoner should be allowed the same privilege
+of commutation or short time as is given other prisoners,
+and in this give him a hope of release. There
+are tables which insurance companies use (and they
+are supported by the courts) which fix an average limit
+of years of the existence of a man, computing from the
+first year; the interval beyond the present age naturally
+decreasing as old age approaches. He says: “It
+would seem that these tables furnish a foundation on
+which a system for life prisoners should be based. For
+instance, a man twenty years of age is convicted of
+murder and sentenced to prison for life. Our tables
+show that the average number of years for a man of
+that age still to live is approximately thirty-four.
+Figuring the legal commutation on this term of thirty-four<span class="pagenum" id="Page_27">[Pg 27]</span>
+years, we find the prisoner would be compelled to
+serve about twenty-three years of solid time. A man
+thirty years old would on the same basis, having about
+thirty years to live, serve eighteen years; a man forty
+years old, having about twenty-five years to live, would
+serve sixteen years in prison. Thus we might continue
+our observations indefinitely.”</p>
+
+<p>My views of this matter may be severely criticised,
+nevertheless we do not consider that five years is unreasonably
+short for the first offence of murder. This
+releases the innocent man who may have been sentenced
+through circumstantial evidence or otherwise
+by false accusation. It is a long sentence for a man
+who has acted on the impulse of the moment or in a
+fit of anger; and even to the one who has premeditated
+the crime, five years of hard labor and proper training
+in a prison will be an impressive lesson to cause him
+not to repeat the act. For a second offence it should not
+be more than ten or fifteen years, and even for a third
+offence it would not be out of reason to give him the
+life sentence with the regular commutation. This
+reasoning may to many at first thought seem ridiculous,
+but upon proper consideration we should remember
+that as long as there is life there is hope, and while
+there is a possibility of reformation a man should have
+some kind of a chance; not only a chance to reform,
+but a chance to enjoy his liberty. Even after he has
+served two or three terms he is not then a worse character
+and not more dangerous to a community than<span class="pagenum" id="Page_28">[Pg 28]</span>
+thousands of others who are just as guilty but have
+not suffered the penalty of the law. When a man has
+served according to the penalty here suggested, has
+he not suffered sufficient to satisfy the law? and should
+we not be willing to allow him the privileges of liberty
+and to enjoy life once more? It is a hard heart indeed
+that will place a man behind prison-bars for life. In
+England there is a possibility of being set at liberty
+after twenty years, on account of good behavior.
+There needs to be a radical change in our laws on this
+line.</p>
+
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i010b" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i010.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="THE_DUNGEON">THE DUNGEON.</h2>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+</div>
+
+<p>This is the dreaded place of all prisons and in many
+places resorted to oftener than necessary. Many prisoners
+who work in the mines have had to go to the
+dungeon without their supper after laboring hard all
+day, because ungodly and wicked guards reported a
+shortage in the proper amount of coal mined, when
+the facts of the case were that the guards had stolen
+or removed a portion of the coal from the car after it
+left the prisoner, because of their dislike for the prisoner
+and by so doing could have him punished. It
+also too often happens that prisoners refuse to work as
+they should, and deserve the punishment. It is not
+necessary to here describe the filthy, stifling, odorous
+dungeons of war times or of some of the worst prisons<span class="pagenum" id="Page_29">[Pg 29]</span>
+of the day, but a description of the dungeon of one of
+the best prisons in our land will be sufficient. The
+following is a description given by one who served a
+term in prison. In describing the punishment to
+secure good discipline, he said:</p>
+
+<p>“To me these contingency dungeons are, as their
+name implies, dark, with similarity to an ordinary cell
+with the exception of a door which in the common cell
+contains open spaces for the admission of light, but
+the dark cell admits no light, and not a sufficient
+quantity of air. There is no furniture in this dark
+cell. While undergoing punishment if a prisoner
+desires to rest he can do so by reclining on the stone
+floor. No refractory prisoner ever grows corpulent
+while confined in these dark cells, as he receives only
+one meal of bread and water in twenty-four hours.
+The prisoner is often kept in one of these cells from
+eight to ten days. Sleep is almost impossible. When
+a prisoner enters the dungeon he is required to leave
+behind him his coat, cap, and shoes. During the
+winter months it is often very cold in these cells,
+requiring the prisoner to walk up and down the dungeon
+in his stocking feet to prevent his freezing, and
+this for a period of ten days in nearly every instance
+compels submission. After the dark cells thaw out in
+the summer months they are excessively hot. Sometimes
+in winter the temperature is below zero, and in
+summer it often rises to 100 degrees. They are then
+veritable furnaces. Generally after the prisoner undergoes<span class="pagenum" id="Page_30">[Pg 30]</span>
+a freezing or baking process for eight or ten
+days, he is willing to behave himself in the future.
+They are sometimes so reduced and weakened that when
+brought out of the dark cell they can scarcely walk
+without aid. I have seen them reel to and fro like
+drunken men. They are often as pale as death. In
+many cases the prisoner contracts cold which later on
+terminates fatally, and this is one of the principal
+objections to this mode of punishment. If the prisoner
+in the mine does not get out his regular weekly
+task of coal, on Saturday he is reported to the deputy
+sheriff by the officer in charge and is sent to the
+blind cell before supper and kept there until the
+following Monday morning, when he is taken
+out and sent to his work in the mines. While
+in there he gets only bread and water once in
+twenty-four hours. This is a great inducement
+to work, which certainly prevents criminals from
+shirking their labor, and soon converts the lazy tramp
+into a hustling coal miner. If being in this dark cell ten
+days and nights is insufficient to subdue a rebellious
+spirit of the convict he is taken out and placed in the
+solitary cell. This is similar to the ordinary cell with
+the exception that it contains no furniture. Here the
+convict remains on bread and water until he is starved
+almost to death or until he is willing to submit and do
+his work as ordered.”</p>
+
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i010ac" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i010.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_31">[Pg 31]</span></p>
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp85" id="i029" style="max-width: 43.8125em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i029.jpg" alt="The Cat-o’nine-tails">
+  <figcaption class="caption"><p class="center no-indent">The Cat-o’nine-tails</p></figcaption>
+</figure>
+<br>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_33">[Pg 33]</span></p>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="CAT-O-NINE-TAILS">CAT-O’-NINE-TAILS.</h2>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+</div>
+
+<p>A few years ago while visiting an Indiana penitentiary
+the warden said that some years before they used the
+cat-o’-nine-tails in punishing their prisoners, but had
+discarded that mode of punishment. There are men
+both in prison and out of prison who carry furrows
+and scars on their backs caused by the deep flesh
+wounds of the cat-o’-nine-tails. This is a whip with
+lashes some of which have wire interwoven so as to
+cut the flesh with every stroke. The poor prisoner
+must bare his back and be chained or shackled
+to a post and beaten by a merciless officer, who
+is often only too glad to wreak his vengeance in
+that way. It is yet the case in many prisons and
+stockades that a similar punishment is inflicted
+with the exception of not so many lashes, and a strap
+is sometimes used, from two to four inches wide, made
+by sewing two pieces of harness leather together. The
+same is perforated, soaked in water over night, and
+dipped in the sand. This, when vigorously applied to
+the bare flesh, causes the most excruciating pain.
+This is not in the least overdrawing the picture of what
+is constantly put into practice at the present time.</p>
+
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i010ad" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i010.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_34">[Pg 34]</span></p>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="BUCK-AND-GAGGED">BUCK-AND-GAGGED.</h2>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+</div>
+
+
+<p>This is another dreadful punishment which is still
+in vogue in some places. The prisoner is taken and
+handcuffed, his hands slipped over in front of his
+knees and sometimes a stick passed through just under
+his knees and over his wrists, his mouth opened ofttimes
+by force, and filled with a large cork or piece of
+wood, and left in this condition until life is almost
+extinct. This punishment is serious and is apt to
+make the prisoner revengeful instead of making him
+feel that he has been justly punished.</p>
+
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i010c" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i010.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="THE_LOCK-STEP_MARCH">THE LOCK-STEP MARCH.</h2>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp100" id="i033" style="max-width: 62.5em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i033.jpg" alt="The Lock-step March">
+  <figcaption class="caption"><p class="center no-indent">The Lock-step March</p></figcaption>
+</figure>
+<br>
+
+<p>The lock-step march is a humane punishment, yet
+when continued a great length of time is very tiresome.
+Prisoners who have been guilty of some trivial
+offence during the week, and who are not otherwise
+punished, are generally called upon to fall in line and
+proceed to the open square of the prison, and there
+while the other prisoners are resting or at chapel exercises
+they must keep in constant motion in the lock-step
+march. This punishment is not as severe as some
+others, yet it is not a desirable punishment, especially
+when the others are all enjoying a rest or comfortably
+seated in the chapel during religions services. When
+<span class="pagenum" id="Page_37">[Pg 37]</span>the hundreds of prisoners are gathered in the chapel on
+Sunday morning and comfortably seated, the warden
+or some other officer reads the names of those who are
+to join in the lock-step march. It is not for them to
+retaliate nor plead their innocence, neither wait to be
+told the second time. As soon as their names are
+called they must immediately rise and as the last
+name is called they are all marched out to the prison
+yard and there begin their tiresome march. Some
+who have committed greater offences must walk in
+front and carry heavy bars of iron. This punishment
+is given to stimulate them to observe the proper rules
+and discipline of the prison.</p>
+
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i010d" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i010.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="LITERARY_PRIVILEGES">LITERARY PRIVILEGES.</h2>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+</div>
+
+<p>The literary privileges are so widely different in the
+various prisons throughout the land that it would be
+very difficult to render the proper information. There
+are some penitentiaries, and especially the stockades
+of the South, without libraries, and many prisoners
+even serve a term without being granted any educational
+privileges whatever, either by way of literary
+work or reading of good books. It is more difficult in
+the stockades to give the literary privileges than in
+other established prisons. However, there are states
+with established penitentiaries that have not provided
+the same with libraries and proper literary accommodations.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_38">[Pg 38]</span>
+On the other hand, many of the penitentiaries
+have established schools wherein prisoners can obtain
+a fair education. For instance, the Michigan state
+prison more than twenty-five years ago established
+graded schools, and all prisoners who have not a fair
+education are required four evenings of the week to
+attend these schools for an hour and a half. In this
+way the prisoner is not only benefited, but it brings
+him under a new line of discipline that enables the
+officer in charge to become familiar with his mental
+condition and capabilities and more fully understand
+the dispositions of those under his charge. Men who
+are thus drilled and properly cared for, after going
+through this discipline day after day, cause less trouble
+to those in charge. In the prisons where the most
+humane reformative system of management is used
+there can be many things brought to bear upon the
+minds of the prisoners that will tend to elevate them
+and fit them for the higher circles of society. By the
+proper treatment and privileges they will soon learn to
+have a taste for literary work. A few prisons give the
+prisoners the privileges of general literary work, such
+as delivering orations, recitations, essays, debates, etc.
+These things, while they educate and develop the
+mind, have a tendency to divert the mind of the prisoner
+from the feelings of disgrace and the deplorable
+situation; and instead of spending hours brooding in
+despondency it awakens an activity of the mind and
+new thoughts for consideration during the solitary
+hours.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_39">[Pg 39]</span></p>
+
+<p>Every prison should supply each cell with a Bible.
+Many do this while others do not. The prisoners
+should also have access to the library and permission to
+call for any book in the library. Where they are thus
+looked after it is the duty of certain prisoners to go to
+each cell and learn what book is desired for the coming
+week and to take up the one which was in their possession
+during the past week. These requests are taken
+to the librarian and the books selected and distributed
+according to number. Prisoners who mutilate or destroy
+the books in any way are denied the privilege of
+having a book to read for a few weeks. If the offence
+is repeated the punishment on this line is more severe
+and they are then neither allowed to receive a book or
+paper or are refused all privileges of the library and not
+even allowed to have paper or writing material to communicate
+with their friends. With most prisoners this
+is a severe punishment. One who has not been thus
+incarcerated or had to spend weeks and months in
+solitude can scarcely realize the value of good books to
+read under such circumstances. But he who has had
+the actual experience knows just how to appreciate
+such a privilege.</p>
+
+<p>During the civil war a number of Union men made
+a daring raid through the Confederate line and were
+afterward captured and cast into dungeons where they
+spent weeks of suffering, amid heart-rending scenes,
+and notwithstanding their extreme hunger, thirst, and
+the stifling odor of their dark underground prison and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_40">[Pg 40]</span>
+suffering much from their shackles and clanking
+chains, they were taken from place to place and then
+brought to trial. Seven of their number were hanged,
+leaving about a dozen remaining who were expecting
+to be called out to follow in their footsteps at any
+time. Through some sudden change or maneuver of
+war the remainder of these men were left in prison
+with guards over them and only a meager supply of
+food. As the seven of their comrades were taken from
+their midst to the place of execution those who remained
+were in much distress of mind. During the
+morning hours before this they had spent the time in
+playing cards, now and then an oath escaping their
+lips, but now the scene changed. Some one suggested
+that they should pray. There was but little hope of
+them escaping the fate of their comrades and thus soon
+be hurled into eternity, and what added more to the
+darkness of the hour was the fact that they had not
+made their peace with God. One of the surviving
+party describes the occurrence as follows:</p>
+
+<p>“From this time forward we had religious exercises
+morning and evening and found them a great consolation
+and support. We began and closed the day right
+and thus added sweetness to all its hours, supplying a
+subject of thought not bearing directly upon our future
+gloomy prospects and thus enabling us to maintain
+better mental health. We always sang a hymn or two
+on these occasions. We sang ‘Rock of Ages,’ ‘Jesus,
+Lover of my Soul,’ and others of a pronounced spiritual<span class="pagenum" id="Page_41">[Pg 41]</span>
+cast. This greatly astonished the guards. They
+were given strict charge to watch us closely with the
+statement that we were the most desperate characters
+in the whole United States. Then to hear us singing
+‘hymns’ and know that we had prayer morning and
+evening was a contradiction they found hard to reconcile....
+What would we not now have given for the
+counsels and assistance of a minister whom we could
+fully trust! Just how to be religious was the puzzle. I
+know if I had a command to execute from an army
+officer I would do it, if in my power, no matter how
+difficult or dangerous, and I wished intensely that it
+was just as easy to be religious as to be a soldier; but
+there was the question of right feelings and right
+motives that did not seem to come into play very much
+in the army. For if a soldier did his duty he was not
+apt to be asked how he felt about it. I had the belief
+that I must have joy and rapture in thinking of death
+and readiness to shout God’s praises, which I did not
+feel; and for a time it seemed as if I could not reach
+a genuine conversion. I diligently read the Bible
+which we had borrowed, and while I enjoyed many
+things in it, little direct guidance for me was found. I
+asked counsel of our captain for whom I had the
+greatest esteem and respect, but it was so easy for him
+to believe that I thought his case must be very unlike
+my own, so I spoke to another one of our company,
+the only one of our number who had a clear religious
+faith, and seemed to be happy in it. His first answer<span class="pagenum" id="Page_42">[Pg 42]</span>
+was very striking. I asked how he felt about death.
+He thought I referred to our worldly prospect, and
+answered that probably we would soon all be put to
+death. ‘But what is your feeling about death itself?’
+I continued. He said, ‘I am not afraid to die if it is
+God’s will. I trust him now and I expect to trust
+him to the last.’</p>
+
+<p>He took my hand and there was a steady light in his
+eye that made me believe every word he said. But when
+I asked him how he got such a faith, he could only tell
+me that he went to a ‘mourners bench’ two years
+before and sought till he found it. This did me no
+good, for there was no place accessible here. In sore
+perplexity I read the Bible from day to day and prayed,
+taking my turn in praying aloud and reading with
+the others. At length I thought I began to see that
+trusting Christ must be something like taking his
+words and teachings for my guide, trying to do all
+that he commanded, and leaving the result while I did
+this with him. This was not that sudden transformation
+that I had hoped, but I soon found that it opened
+up a good many things that I had never dreamed of.
+One of these seemed especially strange under the circumstances.
+I had yet but a slender hope of ever
+escaping from the prison except by the way of the
+scaffold. But in spite of that dark prospect as an
+absolute test of my obedience—‘Will you, if satisfied
+that it is God’s will, be ready to give up the profession
+of law if you ever get home and go into the ministry?’<span class="pagenum" id="Page_43">[Pg 43]</span>
+The first and spontaneous reply was, No! I had
+studied law and meant to practice it if I ever got
+where law reigned. But at once the self response was
+clear, ‘What kind of obedience was this?’ I saw that
+I was not sincere in professing to enlist under Christ
+as my captain unless I would really obey him. It
+would be a poor allegiance that stopped short with the
+things I wanted to do. For a long time I could not
+pass this point. The difficulty when communicated to
+my prison companions seemed utterly absurd. ‘Try
+to serve God in the prison where you are,’ they said
+with a cheer plausibility, ‘and do not bother about
+preaching, being a lawyer or anything else, when you
+get out, for you never will get out.’ This seemed
+good advice but it would not give a serene mind or the
+victory over the fear of death, which I so much desired.</p>
+
+<p>“One after another of those in the prison found the
+comfort I lacked. And it was not until wearied and
+worn-out that I vowed that if God would only give me
+peace I would serve him as sincerely in prison or out
+of it as I had tried to serve my country, and in any way
+he might direct. From this time I did have a steady
+conviction that I was on the Lord’s side and that I
+had a right to commit myself and my life to his keeping.
+Though all newspapers were strictly forbidden,
+yet through the kindness of negro waiters we were
+supplied and thus kept posted regarding war news....
+We all remember with deepest gratitude the visit of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_44">[Pg 44]</span>
+a minister. When he left he promised to send us some
+books and did not forget to promptly forward them.
+These we took good care of, read thoroughly to all in
+the room, and then returned, asking for more. These
+he generously gave and we thus continued until we had
+read nearly his whole library. Those only who know
+what a dreadful weariness it is to pass days without
+any definite employment can realize the great boon
+these good books bestowed on us. It made the prison
+room a veritable school, and in view of our religious
+efforts the character of the books was just what we
+would most have desired, as they were of a religious
+cast, which only made them the more welcome. But
+there is no employment upon which I look back with
+more pleasure than that for which the minister’s books
+furnished us the material. With fifteen persons in a
+room not more than eighteen feet square it was needful
+to preserve quiet if any reading must be done.
+We therefore appointed regular reading hours, two in
+the forenoon and the same in the afternoon. During
+this time no one was permitted to speak above a low
+whisper and all noise and running about was forbidden.
+Those who did not wish to read might sleep.
+Sometimes the books were read silently, but for a part
+of the time in nearly every period a volume of general
+interest would be selected and read aloud. These
+books would often furnish subjects and arguments for
+discussion in the debating periods that followed. We
+gained a great deal of knowledge in our novel school,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_45">[Pg 45]</span>
+which has been of lifelong value. Books of travel,
+adventure, history, biography, and theology—no
+fiction—were freely read and brought the freshness of
+the outside world into our dreary captivity.”</p>
+
+<p>The foregoing gives us a vague idea of what can be
+done for the welfare of the prisoners in the jails, work-houses,
+and penal institutions of our land, towards
+making the prisoners happy by supplying them with
+good books, tracts, papers, and such like. Oh, the
+neglect on this line! Were prisoners thus supplied,
+their minds would not be occupied during the solitary
+hours in scheming and planning the best modes of perpetrating
+crime. Get a man interested in a good book
+and you thus place him in good company. He may
+never see you, but with deep feelings of gratitude will
+ever have the kindest feelings toward those who thus
+bestowed the kind favor of placing him in possession
+of such a companion.</p>
+
+<p>For the entertainment of the prisoner and to develop
+an interest in literary work they have been allowed to
+publish prison papers. Some of these are very small
+while others are large and well edited. About three
+years ago at Sing Sing Prison, in the state of New York,
+it was decided to issue a bi-weekly twenty-six-page
+paper to be edited and printed entirely by convicts.
+No article is allowed in the paper except those composed
+and furnished by the inmates of the prison.
+When papers are thus printed and distributed among
+the prisoners it has a great controlling influence and
+creates a general interest in literary work.</p>
+
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i010ae" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i010.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_46">[Pg 46]</span></p>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="TOBACCO_ALLOWANCE">TOBACCO ALLOWANCE.</h2>
+<hr class="r5">
+</div>
+
+<p>Most prisoners are users of tobacco, yet there are
+many who do not use it. Some prisons allow a pound
+of tobacco a month, some two pounds every month.
+This is generally manufactured at the prison where it
+is used. One of the modes of punishment, and a very
+effective one too, is to deprive the men of their tobacco
+for disobedience. With many this is one of the most
+severe punishments instituted. When a man enters
+prison he is given a copy of the rules of the prison and
+also a ticket stating the privileges of the use of the
+library, books, letter-writing, tobacco allowance, etc.
+Failure to comply with the rules ofttimes means to be
+deprived of these privileges for a month or longer.
+Some time ago we placed a number of tracts in prisons
+showing the evil effects of tobacco on the human system,
+the filthiness and offensiveness of tobacco, etc.,
+and we were pleased to note the results by way of convincing
+many prisoners to discontinue the use and
+give up the habit. While some are able by strong willpower
+to discontinue the use of it, yet but comparatively
+few people can in their own strength quit its use
+and rid themselves of the appetite. But many can
+testify that they have not only been able to quit its use,
+but have had the appetite removed by the power of
+God in answer to prayer.</p>
+
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i010af" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i010.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_47">[Pg 47]</span></p>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="PRISONERS_WORK">PRISONERS’ WORK.</h2>
+<hr class="r5">
+</div>
+
+<p>Men and women are sent to prison to work. The
+sentence is generally so many years in state prison
+at hard labor. It is right and proper that they should
+work and should be made to work faithfully. It is not
+supposed that they receive a sentence to enter a paradise
+for so many years. In the different prisons the
+work is quite different. There are prisons where the
+prisoners are required to spend almost their entire
+time of working hours from 600 to 800 feet under
+ground digging coal. At some places the veins of coal
+are so shallow that the prisoners are compelled to lie
+down and stretch themselves out or be in a half-way sitting
+posture while at their work. Such prisoners often
+contract colds, rheumatism, and other diseases which
+rapidly shorten their lives. In other prisons they are
+taken out in gangs to work on the public highways
+and crush stone. However, some prisons furnish the
+prisoners work within the prison walls. Much of this
+labor is let out to contractors who have a business of
+making clothing, harness, whips, brooms, etc. In
+such cases the contractors pay the state a small
+amount each day for the labor of the prisoners. Many
+complaints have been made, and many of them justly,
+because of the unfair requirements and treatment of
+the prisoners. This should be more carefully looked
+after by the prison inspectors of the state, and we are<span class="pagenum" id="Page_48">[Pg 48]</span>
+glad to know that in many places it is receiving attention.</p>
+
+<p>The time for working ranges from ten to fourteen
+hours per day. In the United States prison at Leavenworth,
+Kans. they rise at six o’clock, and when the
+men are ready to go to their work, three hundred of
+them march two miles and one-half to their work, a
+hundred more go two miles in another direction to
+work on a farm, while others are otherwise occupied
+till six o’clock in the evening. As a general thing,
+if the prisoner is careful to obey the rules and work
+well, he is not likely to have much trouble with the
+officials. However, in some prisons very few escape
+extra punishments of some kind.</p>
+
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i010e" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i010.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="THE_STOCKADES">THE STOCKADES.</h2>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+</div>
+
+<p>The stockade is an enclosure, or pen, made with posts
+or sticks stuck in the ground. It is generally a temporary
+affair. These are to be found in the South and
+Southwest mostly. Here is where the worst treatment
+is to be found among the prisoners. Some of the
+southern states are providing better for their prisoners,
+but others are far behind what they should be.
+A stockade is sometimes made on the top of a mountain
+or in some suitable place for working mines. In
+these southern states not only mining is carried on by
+the prisoners, but building of roads, railroads, and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_49">[Pg 49]</span>
+such like. For instance, where a railroad is being built,
+large cars are roughly and strongly built in which the
+prisoners are locked when not at their work. Women
+in some of these places are required to clear the land,
+roll logs, do drudgery, and in many instances are so
+shamefully used and treated that it is a disgrace to a
+civilized nation. But while such is the case there are
+noble men and women who are not connected with the
+prison, as well as many of the more noble prison
+officers who have been working faithfully for years to
+bring about a prison reform, and much has been done
+and is being done on that line. However, could the
+veil be drawn aside that all might fully realize the
+situation, the reformation would be more rapid and
+effective. The stockades do not have literary privileges
+as a general thing as do our older and well-established
+prisons. We have received communications
+from officers in these stockades who are very anxious
+to have good literature placed at their disposal, assuring
+us that the same would be highly appreciated and
+used to the advantage of the prisoners.</p>
+
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i010f" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i010.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="THE_CHAIN_GANG">THE CHAIN GANG.</h2>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+</div>
+
+<p>It is not an uncommon thing to see a chain gang
+of prisoners, especially about the stockades. Sometimes
+they are marched to and from their work shackled
+with handcuffs, while others are fastened with<span class="pagenum" id="Page_50">[Pg 50]</span>
+clanking chains. There are also men to be found with
+iron bands or rings welded around their necks, to which
+a chain is fastened with the other end of the chain
+attached to a ball to prevent their escape. These are
+generally the most desperate characters.</p>
+
+<p>To those who are acquainted with such scenes it is
+shocking indeed, and creates a feeling of pity and
+sympathy which calls for a more humane treatment in
+behalf of the poor unfortunates. There are men who
+serve almost an entire term of sentence in stocks or
+irons, or go to their work in the chain gang, because
+of a lack of proper provision of accommodations on
+the part of the state or government, or by unjust,
+inhumane treatment.</p>
+
+<p>Few men have fallen so low in sin and degradation,
+or have been so hardened by crime, but yet have at least
+a spark of humanity or manhood which can be kindled
+to a flame by proper humane and reformative treatment;
+where, on the other hand, an undue amount of
+the imposition of irons and chains causes them to
+grind with revenge, and seemingly the little spark of
+manhood is seared over with a more hardened conscience,
+leaving him still a criminal almost beyond
+redemption.</p>
+<br>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_51">[Pg 51]</span></p>
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp85" id="i049" style="max-width: 43.5em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i049.jpg" alt="The Chain-gang">
+  <figcaption class="caption"><p class="center no-indent">The Chain-gang.</p></figcaption>
+</figure>
+<br>
+
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i010a" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i010.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_53">[Pg 53]</span></p>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="THE_FELONS_CELL">THE FELON’S CELL.</h2>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+</div>
+
+<p>When one is taken to serve a term in prison, has
+exchanged his citizen’s clothes for a suit of stripes,
+is measured, and a full description is written in the
+prison books, he is taken to a cell which is to be his
+future abode during his confinement, except what
+time he is at work, at his meals, or is otherwise
+stationed by the prison officers. We can here only give
+a description of what is commonly found to be a prison
+cell. It is a small iron room with a stone floor, and
+when two convicts are to occupy the same cell, there
+are two bunks or beds in the cell. The bed-rack is made
+of iron or wood slats, and the bed-tick is generally
+filled with corn-husks or some similar material, likewise
+the pillow. When the beds are not in use they
+are fastened to the side of the wall with a chain.
+When down and in use they take up nearly the entire
+space of the cell, so that it is impossible for the two
+occupants to pass each other in walking to and fro.
+The other furniture generally consists of a small tinbucket
+holding about two quarts of water, and a washbasin.
+A short-handled broom is also found in one
+corner of the cell with which the convict brushes it
+every morning. The walls are either iron or stone,
+decorated with a small looking-glass and a towel.
+Each cell contains one chair, as there is not room for
+two; so that when one sits on the chair the other<span class="pagenum" id="Page_54">[Pg 54]</span>
+stands or occupies a seat on the stone floor. The door
+is made of half-inch iron bars crossing each other at
+right angles, leaving spaces about two by six inches.
+Through these spaces come the air, light, and heat.</p>
+
+<p>To give the reader an idea of how one would naturally
+feel on the first introduction to such a place, we
+will give it in the language of a prisoner, who says:
+“After examination I was shown to my cell. It was
+now about two o’clock in the afternoon of my first day
+in prison. I remained in the chair during the entire
+afternoon. Of all the dark hours of an eventful
+history none have been filled with more gloom and
+sadness than those of my first day in prison. All my
+life I moved in the highest circles of society, surrounded
+by the best and purest of both sexes, and now I was
+in the deplorable condition of having been hurled from
+that high social condition down to the low, degraded
+plane of a convict. As I sat there in that desolate
+abode of the disgraced I tried to look out down the
+future. All was dark. For a time it seemed as if
+that sweet angel we call Hope had spread her wings
+and taken her departure from me forever. The black
+cloud of despair somewhat settled down upon me. But
+very few prisoners possess the ability to make anything
+of themselves after having served a term in the penitentiary.
+I sat brooding over these things for an
+hour or more and my manhood asserted itself and hope
+returned. I reasoned thus: I am a young man, I enjoy
+good health, there will be only a few months of imprisonment,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_55">[Pg 55]</span>
+and then I will be free. I thought of my
+loving wife, little children, my aged mother, my kind
+friends, and for their sake I would not yield to despair.
+Soliciting aid of a kind heavenly Father I
+resolved to do the best I could toward regaining what
+I had lost. I was aware of the fact that when I got
+out of the penitentiary all the money I would have
+with which to make another start in life would be
+five dollars. The United States presents her prisoners
+upon discharge with a suit of citizens’ clothes and
+five dollars. This was my capital.”</p>
+
+<p>Truly such a sad condition would be deplorable, but
+the prisoner can only assert his manhood, lay his plans
+for the future, and determine to rise above it all, which
+is not impossible. Many have risen to a good standing
+in life. What has been done can be done again.</p>
+
+<p>Prisoners who are sentenced to be hanged are generally
+taken to a cell in the execution house separate
+from the other prisoners. The convict thus doomed
+spends the time in this prison and is not required to
+work. A few months ago I visited a prison, and in the
+execution building I found two prisoners in solitary
+cells. One seemed to have made his peace with God,
+but the other was in deep trouble over his soul, was not
+ready to meet God, and had only a few more days to live.
+It seemed he could not pray. He had been reading his
+Bible and other religious books, but hope had almost
+fled. After talking with him for a time, I said, “Young
+man, your time is short unless God in some way intervenes.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_56">[Pg 56]</span>
+If you have been guilty of crime and are
+trying to hide it from your fellow men or denying the
+charge, you can not hide it from God. Acknowledge
+before him the facts as they are and call upon him for
+help.” After praying with him for a while he gave
+vent to his feelings in most earnest pleas to God, crying
+out, “I am a murderer.” He continued his earnest
+pleas until the Lord did forgive him. A week or two
+later when the death sentence was read to him in his
+cell, he was ready, and made the remark that they
+could only take away his breath, for his soul would
+be forever landed in peace. I saw him march up to
+the gallows, and as his legs and arms were being
+strapped and a rope tied about his neck he glanced
+heavenward as if breathing a silent prayer, and when
+the electric signal was given, he dropped into eternity.</p>
+
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i010g" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i010.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="THE_LIBRARY">THE LIBRARY.</h2>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+</div>
+
+<p>While many prisons are not yet supplied with a
+library, there are efforts being made on this line for
+the education and elevation of the minds of the prisoners.
+For those who have already received an education
+there are many valuable books in the library to
+furnish them something to occupy their minds at such
+times as they may have to read. Some states furnish
+so many thousand books and an appropriation of $500
+a year for library purposes. Among the books<span class="pagenum" id="Page_57">[Pg 57]</span>
+furnished are scientific works, history, biography, and
+others of a religious and moral nature, together with
+many novels and works of fiction. The Christian
+people of our land should see to it that a greater number
+of books of a real spiritual cast are placed at the
+disposal of prisoners.</p>
+
+<p>About two years ago, after receiving some earnest
+letters of appreciation and thankfulness from prisoners
+who had received books and papers, a deeper
+sympathy was awakened in their behalf. For some
+days I became greatly burdened in behalf of a certain
+prison, concerning supplying the prisoners with a
+library of good books. Not knowing whether they had
+a library or whether the prison officials would receive
+the books and put them into the hands of the prisoners,
+I hesitated. As the burden for this matter
+could not be so easily thrown off, my next step was to
+visit the prison and make investigations through the
+prison officials, and was not a little surprised to find they
+were without a library, though at that time were preparing
+a large library room, intending to make a plea to the
+people for a donation of books. As soon as the room
+was finished it was my pleasure to see that $1000
+worth of well-bound books were placed in the library
+for the prisoners, being donated by those who
+have an interest in the men behind the bars. It
+has also been a source of gratitude to know that these
+books have been appreciated and enjoyed by the many
+prisoners who read them in their cells and in the library.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_58">[Pg 58]</span></p>
+
+<p>In some prisons about twenty per cent. or more of
+the prisoners are unable to read or write. For this
+reason schools are being formed where such, especially
+those who desire to do so, can have a chance to receive
+an education. These schools are generally held in the
+library room and taught by one of the prisoners.</p>
+
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i010h" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i010.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="THE_CHAPEL">THE CHAPEL.</h2>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+</div>
+
+<p>The chapel is the place where prisoners get most of
+their public instruction aside from what is obtained in
+the library. It is not often that they have the privilege
+of attending educational lectures as if they were
+attending a college or public school; however, in our
+better prisons steps are being taken to give the well-behaved
+prisoners advantages on this line occasionally.
+The general meetings on Sunday are held in the
+chapel, to which the prisoners are marched in regular
+order, where several hundred are in weekly attendance.
+The chaplain generally conducts the regular
+services or has ministers from the city to take their
+turns in preaching to them. Prison evangelists are
+often given the privilege of talking to the prisoners or
+visiting them at their cells for the welfare of their
+souls. There are prisons where all visitors and gospel
+workers are admitted free, while other prisons charge
+twenty-five cents admission fee. Aside from what is<span class="pagenum" id="Page_59">[Pg 59]</span>
+known as the regular chapel services, the prisoners who
+desire to meet before that hour or remain after, in a
+social religious prayer-service or Bible class, can have
+the privilege of doing so. All prisoners are allowed to
+sing at the general services, although they generally
+have a select choir. One man in giving a report of the
+prison choir said: “At one time we had two horse
+thieves, two rapists—one with a sentence of forty
+years—three murderers, two hog thieves, and several
+others with equally villainous records.” It would be
+difficult at such a place to select a choir that had a
+clean past record. While these men were criminals
+when incarcerated, some of them will doubtless always
+remain criminals, while others have so reformed as to
+be worthy of a better name.</p>
+
+<p>Many prisoners during their confinement actually
+get a real experience of salvation, and those desiring to
+be baptized by immersion go from the chapel to the
+laundry, and there in a well-filled tank or long troughlike
+tub receive the ordinance of baptism. The chapel
+does not have stained-glass windows nor the finery of
+many modern church buildings; nevertheless the place
+is supposed to have everything neat and in order, and
+the men are to observe the strictest decorum and
+reverence while in attendance.</p>
+
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i010i" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i010.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_60">[Pg 60]</span></p>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="SCALING_THE_PRISON_WALL">SCALING THE PRISON WALL.</h2>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+</div>
+
+<p>There are in almost every prison those who are called
+“trusties”—prisoners who are given the privilege of
+doing work outside of the prison, going on errands,
+etc., without the presence of a guard. Others have
+unusual liberties within the prison walls. Life prisoners
+and those who have received a sentence for a
+number of years and have not yet made up their minds
+to reform, often give the officials considerable trouble
+in trying to make their escape; although, as a general
+thing, life prisoners are well-behaved persons.
+There have been some noted and desperate efforts
+made to escape prison. Desperate characters have
+used all their ingenuity in devising plans for an escape
+and watch an opportunity to raise an insurrection at a
+critical time. There have been times when the insurrection
+was so great as to defy the prison officials,
+and the disturbance could only be quelled by the daring
+boldness and wisdom of the warden or general
+officer in charge. When a number of desperate prisoners
+get such an advantage they will fearlessly face
+death rather than yield. A few such noted instances
+are on record. It is, however, very difficult for a prisoner
+to make good his escape. If successful he must
+go under an assumed name and always be a fugitive
+from justice. If a failure is made he is apt to have to
+serve his full sentence instead of having advantage of
+the commutation of “short time.”</p>
+<br>
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_61">[Pg 61]</span></p>
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp85" id="i059" style="max-width: 44.125em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i059.jpg" alt="Scaling the Prison Walls">
+  <figcaption class="caption"><p class="center no-indent">Scaling the Prison Walls.</p></figcaption>
+</figure>
+<br>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_63">[Pg 63]</span></p>
+
+<p>Bloodhounds are kept at the present time for the
+purpose of capturing those who try to make their
+escape, and there are men behind the prison walls who
+carry ugly scars made from deep flesh wounds by the
+bloodhounds during the time of their capture. There
+are times when a fire breaks out in a prison which
+must receive immediate attention of all available help.
+It is at such times that desperate characters undertake
+to raise an insurrection and make their escape. Many
+prisoners have been known at such times to show their
+manhood, and offer their services and manifest their
+loyalty by aiding the officers in keeping the prisoners
+in subjection and in extinguishing the flames. Such
+prisoners should be highly rewarded, and many of
+them shortly afterward receive their pardon in honor
+of their loyalty and good principles shown. The prisoner
+who desires to have favors shown him in prison
+should, upon first entering, decide to obey the prison
+rules to the best of his ability. Anything to the contrary
+will bring the ill favor of the prison officials upon
+him. An attempt to escape will not be forgotten and
+he will be very closely watched and denied many
+privileges which he could have otherwise enjoyed, and
+is not apt to be made a “trustie.” It is therefore a
+wise plan to decide upon perfect submission from the
+beginning of the confinement.</p>
+
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp15" id="i010j" style="max-width: 26.4375em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i010.jpg" alt="Decoration">
+</figure>
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_64">[Pg 64]</span></p>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="A_PRISON_REFORM">A PRISON REFORM.</h2>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+</div>
+
+<p>The highest ideal of prison life is not simply punishment
+for evil doing, but should be a reformation in
+the lives of those who are thus incarcerated. We
+are glad to know that there is really a reformation
+being brought about in the rules and government of
+the prisons in our land.</p>
+
+<p>It is said of one of the kings in a country in Europe
+that, being desirous of knowing how the common people
+lived, he dressed himself as a peasant or tramp and
+went about from place to place among the poorer class
+of people, and while thus lounging about the city he
+was met by a policeman who demanded him to give an
+account of himself. Not giving the proper satisfaction,
+the policeman hurried him off to a dungeon-like
+cell. The prisons under that king’s domain were in a
+sad condition—dirty, filthy, alive with vermin, and
+were most degrading places. Thus the king was obliged
+to spend the night in such horrible quarters, which was
+in great contrast to the royal palace. However, it was
+a night well spent, though but little enjoyed by the
+king. He was touched as never before by a sympathetic
+feeling for the poor unfortunate human beings
+who were cast into such places. He at once ordered a
+renovation of all the prisons throughout his kingdom.</p>
+
+<p>Aside from our penitentiaries, there are jails, work-houses,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_65">[Pg 65]</span>
+and places of imprisonment, many of which are
+allowed to become filthy, with lice and other vermin
+in almost every crevice, making the place not only extremely
+unpleasant but unhealthful to every inmate.
+No doubt if many of our lawmakers and other influential
+people of our country were compelled to
+spend a few days or nights in such prisons there would
+speedily be a great reformation in the prisons of our
+own land.</p>
+
+<p>Aside from cleanliness and government of prisons
+and jails there is a reformation in which we can all
+have a part, and help to point the unfortunate ones to
+Him who is able “to bring out the prisoners from the
+prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison-house.”—Isa.
+42:7. A number of our penitentiaries
+have comparatively good libraries furnished by
+the state; some have not yet been supplied with libraries;
+and even among those that are supplied there
+are more novels than good, wholesome religious works.
+However, in some prisons each prisoner is supplied
+with a Bible of small print, and there has been an
+earnest plea from the prisoners for good, wholesome
+religious literature by way of books, tracts, papers,
+etc. Our jails have as a general thing been sadly
+neglected on this line.</p>
+
+<p>A few months ago we made an effort through the
+Gospel Trumpet Publishing Company, of Moundsville,
+W. Va., to supply jails and prisons with small libraries
+of good unsectarian religious books, such as would be<span class="pagenum" id="Page_66">[Pg 66]</span>
+a benefit to the prisoners and tend to lead them to a
+higher aim in life. We were soon greatly surprised to
+realize the demand from prisoners for such literature.
+A few hundred jails were thus supplied with libraries
+and religious papers. It was almost astonishing to
+learn in reply by their letters of appreciation that in
+many places they had never been thus remembered
+before. Some prisoners had been in for a number of
+months without any religious reading matter and
+scarcely any one to visit them.</p>
+
+<p>Being thus reminded of a lack of duty brought to
+mind the words of Jesus, as mentioned in the twenty-fifth
+chapter of Matthew, wherein he was speaking of
+the end of time when the nations should gather before
+him and he would separate the good from the bad.
+And we read where he says, “Then shall the King say
+unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my
+Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from
+the foundation of the world: for I was an hungered,
+and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me
+drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: naked,
+and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I
+was <em>in prison</em>, and ye came unto me.... Inasmuch as
+ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren,
+ye have done it unto me.”</p>
+
+<p>My dear reader, how will it be with us when we appear
+before the King in all his glory in that day? Can
+he say of us that he was in prison, and we came unto
+him? Or shall he be compelled to utter these words:<span class="pagenum" id="Page_67">[Pg 67]</span>
+“Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared
+for the devil and his angels: for I was an
+hungered, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and
+ye gave me no drink: I was a stranger, and ye took
+me not in: sick, and <em>in prison</em>, and ye visited me not.
+Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of
+these, ye did it not to me”?</p>
+
+<p>While we enjoy our beautiful homes and the pleasures
+of life and freedom, the question comes
+directly, Have we done our duty toward the prisoner?
+Have we visited Jesus in the prison? We may not be
+able to go there in person, but we can visit them by
+providing them with silent messengers by way of good
+books, tracts, papers, etc. There are doubtless thousands
+of professing Christians who never gave a dollar
+to help a prisoner, who never visited a prison in person
+or in any other way. There are those who could
+spend hundreds of dollars in supplying prisons and
+would not feel the weight of it financially, but we
+should make an effort on this line by giving to the
+extent that we may feel the weight of the sacrifice,
+and thereby God will be greatly glorified and many
+prisoners led to seek the Lord and live a pure and holy
+life.</p>
+
+<p>Some of the most intelligent and highly educated
+men are found behind the prison-bars and fill felons’
+cells. It is not always the man of low type, ignorant
+and uneducated, that thus meets his doom. There
+are men and women from every class of society. There<span class="pagenum" id="Page_68">[Pg 68]</span>
+are men who are hardened in crime, whose consciences
+seem seared, yet none so hard-hearted, none
+so low down in the depths of sin that they have not a
+spark of manhood to which there is an appeal. Brutal
+treatment will not reach such specimens of manhood;
+however, they must be brought under strict discipline
+of the requirements of servitude and given to understand
+that perfect obedience is required; yet with all
+that, when they are told in a kind, gentle, loving
+manner and given to understand that they are entitled
+to the best privileges of the prison as they deserve it,
+that little spark of manhood will soon be kindled into
+a flame. There are prisons where a small per cent. of
+the monthly earnings are placed to their credit, which
+in a few years amounts to a large enough sum to give
+them a fair start at the time of their release. If they
+are disobedient, so much is taken from their credit.
+But aside from the kind moral treatment there must
+be something more effective. The hearts of these hardened
+criminals must be changed by the power of God.
+The prison officials who fail to realize or recognize this
+necessity have to a great extent failed in their reformative
+efforts. Every effort possible should be extended
+in behalf of the spiritual welfare of the prisoners.</p>
+<br>
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp85" id="i067" style="max-width: 44.3125em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i067.jpg" alt="Tracked by Bloodhounds—Captured">
+  <figcaption class="caption"><p class="center no-indent">Tracked by Bloodhounds—Captured.</p></figcaption>
+</figure>
+<br>
+
+<p>There is an evil existing in our jails and work-houses
+that is startling and alarming, nevertheless it continues
+throughout the breadth of our land. A young
+man or wayward boy is arrested for some trivial
+offense; it is probably the first time he has been guilty
+<span class="pagenum" id="Page_71">[Pg 71]</span>of thus breaking the law. He is placed behind the
+prison-bars to await a preliminary hearing before a
+justice of the peace. He is then liable to be sentenced
+for from thirty to ninety days in jail, or bound over
+to court, which is to be in session a few weeks or
+months later. In the meantime he is confined in the
+jail to await his arraignment before the court.</p>
+
+<p>Let us now take a look at the jail itself and its
+inmates. It is well secured with solid walls, iron
+doors, and prison-bars. There are a few private cells,
+a broad hallway, and large room into which from five
+to fifty persons are confined. Sometimes even a
+greater number are thus imprisoned without grade or
+discrimination of crime. The tender youth must
+intermingle with those who are steeped in sin and
+hardened in crime. He is here taught to play cards,
+read novels, use vulgar and profane language, practice
+the most vile habits, plan for burglaries, and
+comes forth a rogue at heart, and a hardened criminal.
+Otherwise, had there been the proper discrimination,
+separating those who are just starting on the downward
+course from the hardened criminals, there would
+be a reformation in their lives instead of a degeneration.
+These are facts that can not be denied—facts
+that stare us in the face, and are sad truths that will
+continue to hover over us, as it were, until the good
+people rise up and protest against it for a proper reformation
+on this line. The good people of our land
+would be surprised, yea, stricken with consternation,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_72">[Pg 72]</span>
+were they to visit most jails and work-houses and make
+a thorough investigation, to behold the filth and
+general sanitary condition of the place, which is
+infested with lice and other vermin.</p>
+
+<p>It is right and proper to send people to jail or prison
+who will not behave themselves. They need both
+punishment and reformation. This can be done
+effectually and with good results if the proper course
+is pursued.</p>
+
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop">
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_73">[Pg 73]</span></p>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="HISTORY_OF_WEST_VIRGINIA"><em>HISTORY OF WEST VIRGINIA
+PENITENTIARY.</em></h2>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+<h3>WRITTEN BY A PRISONER.</h3>
+<hr class="r5">
+</div>
+
+<p>In 1863 the state was admitted as one of the constellation
+of states of the union. Virginia had seceded
+from the union by a majority vote. The strong and
+indomitable minority citizens of the Old Dominion
+residing in the western part of it, many of whom were
+Scotch and Irish descendants and natives of the adjoining
+states, who had taken up their homes in the
+valleys and on the hillsides, were loyal to the Union,
+loved well the flag, and reverenced with an undying
+affection the builders of the union of states for the
+greater blessing of the people, and stood firm and
+unyielding for an indivisible united country. By
+their hands and brave hearts they built a state stretching
+from the Potomac to the Ohio river, carved out
+of the Old Dominion. The war-born daughter of the
+historical commonwealth proved, in the subsequent
+years, to be rich in the production of materials in
+active demand in the marts of commerce, and she now
+outstrips her mother state in the race for greatness,
+prosperity, and happiness.</p>
+
+<p>Many regions of the state are mountainous, and the
+principal industries are lumbering, mining, and oil<span class="pagenum" id="Page_74">[Pg 74]</span>
+production. Many of the white people are typical
+mountaineers and somewhat rough and uncouth in
+manner, while the negroes, many of them, have drifted
+from North and South Carolina, Alabama, and
+other southern states to be employed in the development
+of these industries.</p>
+
+<p>There are very many respectable farmers, professional
+and business men, and cultured ladies residing
+in these almost inaccessible parts; but the rough
+element in many places predominates, and the order
+of the day and night is drinking and brawling, ending
+as a rule in desperate encounters and murder.
+Most of the white and black inmates of the penitentiary
+have been and are now composed of the lawless
+men from these regions, from the time it was only a
+stockade of ten acres in 1866, when Hon. J. W. McWhorter
+of the Tenth Judicial District was appointed
+warden by Governor Boreman. He resigned the
+position after viewing it. In a letter to Warden Hawk
+he states it was for the reason that there was not so
+much as a building erected for the shelter of the inmates,
+and he thought he could not work the convicts
+to advantage under the circumstances. The
+penitentiary has been improved from time to time to
+the present, by additions, until it is a massive structure
+of stone and iron, with a high stone surrounding
+wall. It has 695 inmates at the present writing.</p>
+
+<p>The center, or main building, is built after the
+old baronial castellated style of architecture, and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_75">[Pg 75]</span>
+with its several stories height, it makes an imposing
+appearance. It is flanked on the north and south
+by the stone and strongly-barred buildings, wherein
+the old and first built stone cells and the modern
+steel ones—900 in all—are placed. Entrance is to be
+had into the prison proper by means of a round turning
+iron-barred cage in the main hallway of the central
+building.</p>
+
+<p>The cell-building halls are kept in a neat and clean
+condition; the cells are in good sanitary condition and
+are kept in good order by the inmates, many of whom
+are artistic in taste and paint and make many fanciful
+designs as adornments of their small sleeping
+quarters. The yard, limited in area by the shop, dining-hall,
+engine and hospital buildings, is artistically
+laid out in grass-grown plats and flower beds in
+season. Around the area of space on brick-laid
+pavements the prisoners are permitted to walk in columns
+of two according to grade for exercise during
+the afternoon after working hours, and Sabbath forenoon
+prior to and after chapel services. At the four
+corners of the penitentiary walls are stone turrets
+where armed guards are placed from four o’clock
+a. m. to 9 p. m.</p>
+
+<p>Upon West Virginia establishing a state government,
+Wheeling was selected as the capital where the
+legislature met in session in 1863, with Hon. Arthur
+I. Boreman as chief executive. The prison was
+located in 1866 at Moundsville, Marshall Co., then a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_76">[Pg 76]</span>
+beautiful village a few miles from the seat of government.
+The location, for drainage and sanitary conditions,
+might have been better selected from one of
+the many surroundings hills than in the midst of
+the village in the valley on the banks of the Ohio river.</p>
+
+<p>Moundsville has since the location of the penitentiary
+there, grown into the eighth city in population
+of the state, and is now a manufacturing and resident
+town possessing daily and weekly newspapers. Modern
+improvements prevail, with water and electric light
+systems and street-car lines connecting with Wheeling
+and adjoining suburbs. The magnificent mound
+erected by the Mound Builders many years gone by
+for the burial of their dead, to be seen near the penitentiary,
+is one of the attractions to the thousands
+of persons who visit the locality.</p>
+
+<p>Hon. G. S. McFadden, of Moundsville, was the first
+active and practical warden of the penitentiary. With
+the means at hand he made many praiseworthy improvements
+for the amelioration of the inmates during
+his incumbency. The condition of the prisoners during
+the four years past and now, is a vast improvement
+over the old system. Skilled and humane prison
+managers for many years were wanting. The condition
+of the inmates was at times deplorable in the
+extreme. The methods of punishment in vogue were
+extremely severe, the work laborious, the clothing
+of the zebra kind, the lock-step exacting, the supply
+and kind of food indifferent and bad. The employment<span class="pagenum" id="Page_77">[Pg 77]</span>
+of the prisoners on the state account or under
+contract was unprofitable, and expenses for the prison’s
+maintenance piling upon the taxpayers, who
+made just complaint. Loud demands were made by
+the people of Moundsville and throughout the state,
+conversant with the deplorable condition of the affairs
+of their penal institution, for a change.</p>
+
+<p>After Governor Atkinson’s inauguration, March 4,
+1897, he appointed Colonel S. A. Hawk as warden of
+the penitentiary. He was at the time of his appointment
+a well-known business man of Huntington,
+Cabell Co. For a number of years he was also known
+as a popular employee of an Ohio river steamboat running
+out of Huntington. He was at one time a successful
+merchant, hotel-keeper, contractor, and during
+President Harrison’s administration as President
+he was an official of the Interior Department in
+charge of the public domain in Arizona Territory.</p>
+
+<p>Prior to the incumbency of Warden Hawk the
+West Virginia penitentiary had for years been running
+behind the legislative appropriation many thousand
+dollars annually, and not much, if any, success
+was made in the reformation of the prisoners.
+Altogether the prison was in bad order when he took
+hold as warden, he not only introduced reformatory
+treatment with respect to the prisoners, but he has
+made the institution bring to the state an actual profit
+over and above all expenses for maintenance. Warden
+Hawk took hold of the penitentiary management May<span class="pagenum" id="Page_78">[Pg 78]</span>
+1, 1897. He discovered that his predecessor’s method
+of punishment was principally solitary confinement.
+Twenty-seven or more prisoners were undergoing the
+punishment on bread and water, and they presented a
+pitiable condition. Their labor was lost to the state;
+their mental, moral, and physical health undermined;
+hope seemingly was blasted, and they were strangers
+to God. The warden turned the key and liberated
+these men and put them to work, which they gladly
+expressed a willingness to do.</p>
+
+<p>He adopted the new and advanced method of prison
+management in line with up-to-date penalogists; viz.,
+The grade system, plain clothing in lieu of stripes,
+more and better food, first-class medical attendance,
+every prisoner at work, more personal liberty and
+exercise granted; he made himself approachable to
+those prisoners having a grievance, and in so far as
+he could within the bounds of true discipline, rectified
+them. Religious worship was fostered and encouraged;
+punishment for willful infractions of the rules and
+regulations governing the prison, sure and certain, by
+black-listing from special privileges, for a period of
+thirty days or more; the lock-step, by carrying on the
+yard an iron weight during working hours, and in
+extreme cases of fighting and other reprehensible
+misconduct, corporal punishment with a leather strap
+was inflicted, or by buck-and-gag. Other changes of
+a minor but not less ameliorative nature were made
+conducive to the moral welfare of the inmates.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_79">[Pg 79]</span></p>
+
+<p>To bring about these humane changes many and
+substantial improvements were made in the way of
+buildings and additions without cost to the taxpayers,
+for the prison was more than self-sustaining, and
+a handsome sum of money was on hand for this purpose.</p>
+
+
+<h3>PRISON LIBRARY.</h3>
+
+<p>January 1, 1900, Warden S. A. Hawk completed
+the erection of a two-story brick addition to the prison
+dining-hall. The second story room, 40×40 feet,
+was dedicated by him to the use of a library and
+school. The fixtures were placed in the room but
+there were only a few mutilated books at hand to begin
+with. E. E. Byrum, President of the Gospel Trumpet
+Publishing Company of Moundsville, hearing of the
+situation, offered his gratuitous service to the warden
+to aid him to build up the library to a respectable proportion.
+Upon the assurance given him that there
+was no available appropriation to purchase books for
+the library, Mr. Byrum called the attention of the
+members of his company to this state of affairs, and
+upon their advice and with their consent, a splendid
+lot of artistically bound religious and other suitable
+books valued at $1,000 was placed at the disposal
+of the warden for the use of the prison inmates. So
+grateful were the prisoners, the warden, and prison
+employees at the generous gift that it was</p>
+
+<p><em>Resolved</em>, That the prisoners of the West Virginia<span class="pagenum" id="Page_80">[Pg 80]</span>
+penitentiary, through Warden S. A. Hawk, tender
+their grateful thanks to E. E. Byrum and to the
+Gospel Trumpet Publishing Company, Moundsville,
+W. Va., for the very welcome gift of books placed in
+the prison library for their use.</p>
+
+<p>This fine gift of standard literature, including 500
+song-books, was a nucleus for the building up of an
+excellent library, few equaling it in the state.</p>
+
+<p>Thousands of circular letters were mailed by the
+warden to the leading citizens of West Virginia and
+leading publishing houses of the country asking for
+donations of literature. The responses were generous—donors
+sending from one book to cases containing
+hundreds of books. One year after the opening of
+the library twelve thousand standard religious and
+secular books and magazines were donated. It is true
+many of them were second-hand and worn, except
+those received from the publishing firms—such as the
+people of the state could afford to give.</p>
+
+<p>The library represents to every inmate the warden’s
+desire that every one of them should feel that an opportunity
+for newness of life to them is open, and in
+such opportunity may be found an ample encouragement
+of good purposes and well-meant efforts. Better
+life, better men, hence a hope for the prevalence of
+improvement.</p>
+
+<p>A night school from 5.30 to 7.30 p. m., for two
+hundred and more illiterate white and colored inmates,
+ranging from seventeen to seventy-two years of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_81">[Pg 81]</span>
+age, was begun in the library at its opening, without
+intermission during every week-day of the year. The
+good result has been more satisfactory in the teaching
+of spelling, reading, arithmetic, geography, and writing
+than the most sanguine could have anticipated.
+Every one of the illiterate prisoners at the end of the
+year can read. The attendance of the pupils, thirty-two
+white and forty colored, being voluntary on their
+part, alternate nights. The prisoners are visited at
+their cells every Saturday evening by assistant librarians
+(who are employed in shops during the day), with
+slips in hand, and their order taken for whatever book
+or magazine they may ask for. The magazines are
+securely bound, three in one volume, minus the advertisements.
+The number of the cell is taken down
+with the prisoner’s serial number. The literature is
+carefully selected by the librarian and made ready for
+his assistants to place in the inmates’ cells, and each
+book is charged to the prisoner by his serial number,
+to be kept for one week. If, however, the book is
+one that can not be read during the regular period of
+time, upon application, a further period of a week is
+allowed. The books issued the previous week are collected
+and returned to the library, there to be carefully
+examined, for intentional mutilation the culprit
+being black-listed and deprived of the use of books, at
+the pleasure of the warden. At the first and several
+issues thereafter illiterate and mischievous prisoners
+marked their books, but by judicious use of the black-list<span class="pagenum" id="Page_82">[Pg 82]</span>
+and reprimand the practice on the part of these
+culprits ceased, and they cheerfully refrained from
+committing themselves again, and they are now most
+careful of their literary treasures. For a period of
+seven months of the year no reports for mutilation of
+books have been made.</p>
+
+<p>The following are most in demand: Mothers’ Counsel
+to Their Sons, Pilgrim’s Progress, Fox’s Book of
+Martyrs, The Kingdom of God, Divine Healing of
+Soul and Body, Grace of Healing, Boy’s Companion,
+and Letters for Our Girls—the last being in demand
+by the female inmates, there being twenty-seven white
+and colored of them. Many books on tobacco and its
+effects were also issued to the inmates above named.
+The books are a part of the Gospel Trumpet Publishing
+Company’s donation. From close observation
+of the readers of all this admirable literature the good
+results are carefully and conscientiously given as follows:
+Mothers’ Counsel to Their Sons is in constant
+and steady demand from young men to the
+“manor-born” of West Virginia. They are a unique,
+original, and reverent body of criminals. Far too
+many are illiterate, possessed of high, lofty, and impulsive
+dispositions, their very souls throbbing with
+vitality, their eyes beaming with inspiration, doubtless
+inspired with the magnificent scenery of their native
+and well-beloved state. Their hearts and minds seem
+to expand with the thought ever present with them,
+“Mountaineers will ever be free.” While restraint is<span class="pagenum" id="Page_83">[Pg 83]</span>
+irksome to them, they are, however, sensitively
+susceptible to kind treatment. They love their
+mountain homes and hearth-stones and cherish with
+fond remembrance the parents at home, and they are
+keen to read literature that brings these close to
+their prison home.</p>
+
+<p>Pilgrim’s Progress is called for by older inmates
+from other states, white and colored alike, and also
+those from foreign lands, some of whom have enjoyed
+the benefit of early home religious training or have
+been picked up during their wanderings around the
+world and about the country. They seem to get much
+good from their reading of John Bunyan, his temptations,
+trials, and triumphs. All of these men continue
+in their demand for Gospel Trumpet literature
+until they have read all of the different volumes of the
+donation. A marked and decided improvement is
+noted in the good discipline and the attendance at
+religious services of all of the readers of good literature
+and the warden and guards are pleased with
+their exemplary behavior. The warden has found it
+convenient to stop altogether the issue of tobacco to
+the inmates, doubtless accounted for by readers of
+“Tobacco and Its Effects,” who are now non-users of
+the weed. It is to be hoped that the contractors do
+not issue to their employees as much tobacco as heretofore.
+May the use of it grow less until in as well
+as out of prison its use may be entirely eliminated.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_84">[Pg 84]</span></p>
+
+
+<h3>RULES TO BE OBSERVED BY PRISONERS WHEN
+USING THE LIBRARY.</h3>
+
+<p>Rule 1st. Upon entering the library prisoners
+must promptly remove their caps and go to their
+seats in a quiet manner.</p>
+
+<p>Rule 2d. Chewing tobacco, smoking, or spitting
+on the floor is strictly forbidden.</p>
+
+<p>Rule 3d. Books, papers, or stationery required by
+any prisoner can be had by raising the hand and asking
+the librarian or teacher.</p>
+
+<p>Rule 4th. Undivided attention must be given to
+the teacher; his instructions promptly and respectfully
+obeyed, and the whole time of the prisoner who
+is learning must be devoted to study.</p>
+
+<p>Rule 5th. Books, magazines, and papers will be
+issued for not longer than one week. Care must be
+exercised not to mark, tear, or mutilate them in any
+way.</p>
+
+<p>Rule 6th. Should a violation of any of these rules
+result in a prisoner being reported for punishment, he
+will be black-listed, and denied the privilege of school
+or library.</p>
+
+<p>Rule 7th. The privilege of the library will be given
+to prisoners of exemplary record, where they will have
+free access to books, magazines, and papers, after
+working hours.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+<span class="smcap">S. A. Hawk</span>, Warden.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_85">[Pg 85]</span></p>
+
+
+<h3>LITERATURE FOR CONVICTS.</h3>
+
+<p>The Greenbrier (W. Va.) Independent says: “A
+short time ago Judge McWhorter of our town shipped
+to S. A. Hawk, warden of the state prison at Moundsville,
+a lot of books, magazines, etc., donated by himself
+and others. We are permitted to publish Mr.
+Hawk’s letter to the judge in acknowledgement of
+the donation:</p>
+
+<p>“‘Your fine donation of literature came to hand to-day
+(March 10), for which please accept my sincere
+gratitude. I am gratified to inform you that from
+donations received from the generous people of West
+Virginia and some few publishers, I have about 10,000
+volumes of books and magazines—the latter securely
+bound and covered. The library is indebted to the
+Wheeling Intelligencer and News for very many daily
+exchanges. The library room is 40×40 feet, handsomely
+furnished and fully equipped.</p>
+
+<p>“‘I have an evening school of sixty pupils—thirty
+colored and thirty white, boys and men—the hours
+being from 5 to 7.30 p. m. Their progress is very
+satisfactory. Taking into consideration that I sent
+out my appeal for literature January 20, 1900, I think
+that I have met with unprecedented success, for which
+I am certainly grateful.</p>
+
+<p>“‘I feel conscious that the new and more liberal
+system of discipline inaugurated by me since my management
+of the prison, and the many improvements<span class="pagenum" id="Page_86">[Pg 86]</span>
+made, is a duty I owe my charges and for the future
+protection of society, because these men feel that the
+hand of every man is not raised against them and that
+upon their release they will be encouraged to make of
+themselves useful citizens.</p>
+
+<p>“‘Assuring you that I completely appreciate your
+kindness, I am sincerely yours,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+<span class="smcap">S. A. Hawk</span>.’”<br>
+</p>
+
+
+<h3>THE BIBLE CLASS.</h3>
+
+<p>Had been in an intermittent state of organization
+from 1890, with but moderate success. Some two
+years ago (1899) the Gospel Trumpet people took an
+active interest in the welfare of the Bible class, which
+meant that henceforth renewed and intelligent effort
+was to be made for the future. The class under the
+new order of arrangement and new infusion of God’s
+Spirit greatly increased in membership in a short period
+of time. To this class of earnest Christians the
+Gospel Trumpet people and denominational ministers
+of Moundsville give their attention and best effort in
+their respective turn, every Sabbath morning from 8
+to 9 o’clock. The commendable progress the members
+of the class have made in their work is to a large
+extent due to these ministers of God. Very many
+remarkable conversions have been brought about, and
+baptism given by the ordained ministers from the
+Gospel Trumpet office.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_87">[Pg 87]</span></p>
+
+
+<h3>NOTABLE REFORMATIONS.</h3>
+
+<p><em>Serial No. 2282</em>—A veteran inmate from Randolph
+Co., aged 56 years, received at the prison in 1892 to
+serve his natural life for the crime of murder, this
+being his second term for the same kind of crime.
+About twelve years ago he was pardoned by the governor
+upon well established grounds of mitigating
+circumstances connected with the alleged crime.</p>
+
+<p>For the second term he has been an inmate for
+nine years. He is a large man, six feet in height,
+with a good looking face and possessed of a warm and
+tender heart. His prison record is exemplary, and he
+is employed in the tailor shop, filling a responsible
+position. Four times has the Bible class selected him
+as their class-leader, recognizing his Biblical learning,
+industry, and signal ability at prayer and exhortation.
+He says that during the years prior to the aid given to
+the class at the hands of the Gospel Trumpet people,
+he was somewhat lukewarm in his class work. However,
+with their hearty assistance and material aid he
+took on a new spirit and inspiration for more and better
+work for God. He is much encouraged by the
+many conversions made and by the growth of the class.
+He canvassed for subscribers for very many Gospel
+Trumpet literary works; of these and the Gospel
+Trumpet paper, he is a constant reader.</p>
+
+<p><em>Serial No. 2320</em>—Received from Cabell Co. in 1892
+to serve a life sentence for murder, is a young man of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_88">[Pg 88]</span>
+fine education, culture, high resolve and noble purpose,
+a scion of Christian family residents of Ohio.
+The crime into which the unfortunate man was probably
+led appears to have been a concocted scheme
+made up and he enticed to join in, for the purpose of
+putting him out of the way in order to accomplish
+certain designs his enemies had against his life and
+property to be inherited by him. To make sure of
+their work the railroad officials and detectives were put
+on the job, so, when he and his companions made
+the attempt to stop and rob the railroad passenger
+train, they were fired upon by a posse of armed
+guards, which they returned, killing one of the
+passengers. He was seriously wounded, losing the use
+of his right arm.</p>
+
+<p>He was converted several years ago and baptized.
+His health has long since been undermined by confinement
+and he is in a precarious condition, but above
+all things else he is a true Christian and child of God
+and entirely fit to be pardoned and restored to society,
+home, and friends. He has served one year as leader
+of the Bible class, and owing to his lovable disposition,
+learning, and industry he gave entire satisfaction
+to his classmates.</p>
+
+<p><em>Serial No. 2547</em>—Received from Fayette County in
+1894, for murder, to serve his natural life in prison,
+age at the time 20 years, is a notable example of complete
+reformation within the prison-walls. He is a
+native of Virginia, raised to do hard work in the coal<span class="pagenum" id="Page_89">[Pg 89]</span>
+mines, where he was without much, if any, advantage
+to enable him to obtain an education. Possessed of
+natural abilities and doubtless awed by the shadow of
+the gallows from which a loving sister saved him, and
+the prison environments, he purposed to obey the
+prison rules by industry at his employment and civility
+toward the prison officials and his comrades. It seems
+also that early upon his entrance into the penitentiary
+he resolved to be a godly man. He taught himself
+how to read his Bible while in his cell at night. Attending
+the Bible class he learned how to pray. He
+gave his heart to God one Sabbath day while listening
+to a sermon. His classmates selected him as their
+leader and he served so satisfactorily that during the
+end of Governor Atkinson’s administration he was
+pardoned by and through the untiring effort and
+devotion of the sister who had saved him years before
+from the gallows. One and all rejoiced and prayed
+God that the Governor, at the end of life’s journey
+may be rewarded for the mercy he granted even unto
+the poorest and lowliest prisoner in the penitentiary.</p>
+
+<p><em>Serial No. 2504</em>—Received from Berkley County in
+1894, for grand larceny, to serve a term of twelve
+years, upon entrance to the prison started in to make
+it unpleasant for the prison officials by stubbornly
+refusing to work and by violent acts of misconduct.
+It was found necessary to punish him severely several
+times. He was one of the prisoners in solitary confinement
+when Warden Hawk took hold of the prison.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_90">[Pg 90]</span>
+He was released with others, and at once taken in
+hand by the warden for individual treatment. A good
+position was given him in the laundry and other privileges
+granted to him as well as good counsel given and
+amiably received. It was soon observed by the prison
+officials that he was a constant attendant at the chapel
+Sabbath services, then at a pathetic and prayerful invitation
+went forward one Sabbath day and gave himself
+to the service of God and was baptized. He was
+in charge of the Bible class for a while. He was recently
+released by habeas corpus proceedings on the
+ground that having been committed to the penitentiary
+on two sentences, one for four years and the
+other for eight years, from different counties, the
+greater sentence embraced also the lesser one, in that
+the date of sentence in each case commenced from the
+day of sentence.</p>
+
+<p>A close Biblical student and possessed of considerable
+natural ability, power of prayer and exhortation,
+it is hoped and expected that he will continue to be a
+worker in the Lord’s vineyard.</p>
+
+<p><em>Serial No. 3595</em>—Received from Monongahela Co.
+in 1898, to serve a term of four years for grand
+larceny. Upon entering the prison he became an
+active worker in the Bible class. He is an exemplary
+prisoner and thought well of by the warden and prison
+officials. It is expected that, upon his release, his
+experience in prison will make of him an efficient
+Christian worker. Possessing some ability and ambition
+as a hymn-writer, herewith is a sample:</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_91">[Pg 91]</span></p>
+
+
+<p class="center no-indent fs80">“A BROTHER OF JESUS.”</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<div class="poetry-container">
+<div class="poetry">
+  <div class="stanza">
+    <div class="verse indent0">A brother of Jesus, a comrade to fight,</div>
+    <div class="verse indent0">A brother to conquer, and strive for the right,</div>
+    <div class="verse indent0">A brother in daring, a comrade indeed,</div>
+    <div class="verse indent0">A brother to venture, whatever the need.</div>
+    <div class="verse indent0">A brother in spirit, when dangers surround,</div>
+    <div class="verse indent0">A comrade in courage who stands his ground,</div>
+    <div class="verse indent0">A brother who’s faithful, loyal, and true,</div>
+    <div class="verse indent0">A comrade who fights, and fights his way through.</div>
+    <div class="verse indent0">A brother for heaven, who stands by the cross,</div>
+    <div class="verse indent0">A comrade obedient, whatever the cost,</div>
+    <div class="verse indent0">A brother who’s ready and willing to die,</div>
+    <div class="verse indent0">A comrade who will not his Savior deny.</div>
+    <div class="verse indent0">A brother on duty, by day and by night,</div>
+    <div class="verse indent0">A comrade who’s trusting in Jesus’ great might,</div>
+    <div class="verse indent0">A brother so Christlike, O Savior, I’ll be</div>
+    <div class="verse indent0">A comrade in purpose, sacred to thee.</div>
+  </div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p class="center no-indent fs90">DEGENERATES.</p>
+<br>
+
+<p><em>Serial No. 4035</em>—Was received from Pocahontas
+County in 1898, to serve two years for horse stealing.
+He claimed upon his entrance to the prison to be a
+“preacher.” It is alleged by persons who know his life
+and character that he is an old and experienced horsethief,
+who had served many terms of imprisonment in
+the different penitentiaries of the country, and was
+looked upon from a criminological point of view as a
+moral degenerate of the first degree. While playing
+the role of a “mountain evangelist” in the county
+from whence he was committed to the penitentiary,
+he there applied his first and only calling, as a horsethief<span class="pagenum" id="Page_92">[Pg 92]</span>
+of the first degree. Upon his introduction to the
+prison he professed to be very religious, and stoutly
+maintained that he was an innocent man much
+maligned and persecuted. He was made janitor of the
+chapel, doubtless owing more to the fact that he was
+a cripple, having only the use of his left hand, and a
+glib talker and not of use elsewhere.</p>
+
+<p>He soon ingratiated himself into the good graces of
+the visiting ministers, who looked upon him more in
+pity than aught else, and they extended to him charity
+which covers a multitude of sins. He did active
+and good work, however. Upon his release from prison
+he made loud professions of reformation and made
+pretense of going to serve God and by so doing become
+a good citizen. It was, however, soon after his
+release observed by persons interested in his welfare
+that he was secretly treading the path of wickedness.
+Soon he was a fugitive from justice with big rewards
+offered for his apprehension and conviction for the
+larceny of many horses from the farmers of the state
+and of Pennsylvania. Sheriffs of many counties were
+on the lookout to apprehend him. Recently the
+sheriffs ran their quarry down and landed him in the
+Mineral County jail and doubtless he will soon be returned
+to his old familiar quarters, there to once more
+ruminate the error of wrong-doing. It might well
+be said of him with Pope, “Why formed so weak,
+so little, and so blind.” He has received another
+sentence of ten years in state prison.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_93">[Pg 93]</span></p>
+
+
+<h3>PATHETIC.</h3>
+
+<p><em>Serial No. 3984</em>—Under sentence of death for the
+murder of his brother-in-law, is an object of great
+pity. This man for the love of his sixteen-year-old
+boy murdered a man, for which deed the law demands
+his life. He and the man murdered were both wealthy
+farmers at Terra Alta, Preston Co., West Virginia.
+Last November (1900) his boy was arrested by the
+brother-in-law for breaking into the cellar of his house
+and getting drunk on his cider. He had him
+indicted, tried, convicted, and sentenced to the penitentiary
+for the term of one year, which angered his
+father, who took a shot-gun and shot his brother-in-law
+dead in his own barn in the presence of a hired
+man. The father escaped and lived in the mountains a
+month, gave himself up, pleaded guilty, and was sentenced
+to be hanged Feb. 15, 1901.</p>
+
+<p>His neighbors, who were kindly disposed to the
+erring man, at once put in circulation a petition to
+the Governor praying for a commutation of sentence
+to life imprisonment. His wife signed a remonstrance
+against granting the petition of her husband’s friends.
+However, the governor, in order to enable the condemned
+man’s friends to present the petition to the
+advisory board of pardons for their consideration,
+granted him a respite until April 13. Upon his
+arrival in the penitentiary he was permitted to see his
+wayward boy, and the scene between father and son
+was truly pathetic.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_94">[Pg 94]</span></p>
+
+
+<h3>HUMOROUS.</h3>
+
+<p><em>Serial No. 3715</em>—An illiterate white boy from Calhoun
+County, to serve two years for grand larceny for
+stealing a heifer, sensibly availed himself of the privilege
+afforded by the warden to attend the night
+school. He made remarkable progress in his studies,
+so that he could read and write a legible hand. He
+was so elated with his success that he stated before his
+release that he was glad he was sent to the penitentiary
+for stealing the heifer to procure money to take
+his girl to the county fair, for now he had a fair
+education and could get on better in the world.</p>
+
+
+<h3>MEN EXECUTED FOR MURDER.</h3>
+
+<p>The West Virginia Legislature passed an act February,
+1899, viz.: “The sentence of death shall in
+every case be executed by hanging within the walls
+of the penitentiary and not elsewhere. The officers of
+the court imposing sentence may be present, and
+twelve respectable citizens, a physician and surgeon,
+and such representatives of the press as the warden
+may desire; and the condemned may by request have
+his counsel, ministers of the gospel, and such relatives
+as the warden may deem prudent.”</p>
+
+<p><em>Serial No. 3745</em>—Colored, of middle age, who had
+served a term in the penitentiary for stealing, was
+brought to the prison in 1899, from McDowell County,
+to suffer the penalty of death Oct. 10, 1899, for the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_95">[Pg 95]</span>
+unprovoked murder of a “scarlet” negro woman.
+Upon his entrance into the prison he asked for and
+was given a Bible, which he constantly read during
+the time he awaited to be executed by mandate of the
+law. Ministers of his race paid him frequent visits,
+anxious to aid him in spiritual and temporal affairs.
+He professed sincere religious belief and that upon
+confession of faith he would be saved, yet he did not
+seem to accept with good grace the assistance offered
+him by the negroes.</p>
+
+<p>During his former imprisonment while he was employed
+to clean and scrub the guard-room and the
+main-building hallways, he frequently met the chaplain;
+so he made request to the warden that he be
+sent for to pay him a visit. The chaplain responded
+at once and devoted much of his time to giving religious
+consolation and words of good cheer. He, however,
+constantly maintained that he was innocent of
+the crime charged; that the negro with him at the
+time of the shooting was responsible for the woman’s
+death, by means of a shot-gun. He doubtless was
+possessed of a scheming mind, and hoped that he
+might by some means escape the penalty for his
+crime. Many negro prisoners as well as white ones
+deeply sympathized with him, for he was considered a
+“good fellow” when they knew him in prison as one
+of their number.</p>
+
+<p>A collection amounting to $50.00 was taken up from
+among the prisoners to pay a lawyer to procure a copy<span class="pagenum" id="Page_96">[Pg 96]</span>
+of the record of his trial to enable him to file an appeal
+to the Supreme Court for a new trial. The lawyer
+received and acknowledged the receipt of the money,
+making in return therefor full and profuse promises
+what he would do to save his life. He took and spent
+it for liquor, became drunk on the money, and did
+not turn a hand to save the life of his confiding client.
+The unfortunate man, hearing of the reprehensible
+conduct of his attorney, and the time near at hand for
+his execution, grew despondent and weak mentally
+and physically. He was baptized, professed repentance,
+confessed he murdered his mistress, and the night of
+his execution between the hours of 12 a. m. and 1 p. m.
+it was found necessary to administer powerful
+stimulants to brace him up for the trying ordeal.
+With zeal and courage his spiritual advisor prayed,
+counseled, and assisted him to the scaffold. His
+neck was broken by the fall and his death was painless.</p>
+
+<p><em>Serial No. 3746</em>—A splendid specimen of the young
+mulatto, possessed of a fair education for one with
+the limited opportunities within his reach, by occupation
+a coal miner. He was received into the prison
+from McDowell County under sentence of death for
+the willful murder of a sixteen-year-old negro boy,
+while he was in an intoxicated condition; also to be
+executed Oct. 10, 1899. He asked for and was given
+a Bible. He was a musician, playing the guitar with
+skill, and possessed of a fine tenor voice he was fond
+of singing hymns, which he did with pathos, rhyme,
+and music, to the delight of his hearers.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_97">[Pg 97]</span></p>
+
+<p>He stoutly maintained that his victim was not intentionally
+but accidentally shot by him; that he accidentally
+fired his pistol into the dwelling wherein
+the boy was domiciled out of his sight. Upon learning
+that the boy was wounded, perhaps fatally, he
+procured a doctor to whom he paid $50.00, all the
+money he had saved from his earnings, to save his
+life. The boy proved to be wounded beyond the hope
+of recovery and soon died. The chaplain also ministered
+to the spiritual welfare of the prisoner and
+became much impressed with the young man’s apparent
+religious sincerity and his plausible story of
+innocence of murder. So much was he interested in
+him that he made personal and strenuous efforts to
+save his life. The Governor was appealed to, the
+Attorney General was called upon for assistance to
+procure a copy of his trial record, and statements
+made by him were investigated, and the whole matter
+submitted to the pardon board for their consideration.
+After an exhaustive and painstaking consideration of
+the facts submitted to them the pardon board concluded
+that he lied and was in fact guilty, and should
+suffer the penalty for his crime. The Governor, after
+the conclusion of the pardon board was made known
+to him, paid the prison a visit. He called upon the
+doomed man in the death-cell, and the latter made to
+the Governor a most eloquent and pathetic plea to save
+his life. With tears streaming down his cheeks, the
+Governor kindly said, “Would to God I could do so,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_98">[Pg 98]</span>
+my boy, but the facts as presented to me are undeniable
+as to your absolute guilt.”</p>
+
+<p>Now knowing that all hope for escape from the
+gallows was gone and that he must die, he read his
+Bible, sang gospel hymns, and played his guitar. He
+confessed that he was in fact guilty of the crime and
+was now content to suffer death, as he believed he had
+made his peace with God. He was baptized, and his
+demeanor to the scaffold from his cell was admirable
+and brave. He firmly ascended the stairway leading
+to the death-trap, stood over it without a tremor while
+his hands and legs were strapped and the rope adjusted
+about his neck. When asked by the warden if he had
+anything to say, he replied in a manly and firm voice,
+“I have made my peace with God. I am guilty. The
+causes of my downfall were whiskey and women.
+Jesus will take me and I am ready and willing to die.”</p>
+
+<p><em>Serial No. 3772</em>—Colored, was received at the prison
+in 1900, from Fayette County, to be executed for the
+willful murder of a prominent negro saloon-keeper who
+refused to furnish him more liquor when he was
+already drunk. He asked for a Bible, and when it was
+given to him he seemed to be pleased, and constantly
+read it. His attorney, however, was skilled in criminal
+law, and was an indefatigable worker. The
+prisoner, an intelligent colored man, peaceable and
+quiet when sober, believed that he would not have to
+suffer the penalty for his crime. Strenuous efforts
+were made by his attorney to save his life. The Governor<span class="pagenum" id="Page_99">[Pg 99]</span>
+and the board of pardon were respectively
+appealed to, but the guilt of the man was so conclusive,
+and the murder so unprovoked, that at all points
+his appeal for clemency was refused. He bravely and
+uncomplainingly paid the penalty decreed by the law
+and professed his belief in the saving power of Jesus.</p>
+
+
+<h3>UNDER SENTENCE OF DEATH.</h3>
+
+<p><em>Serial No. 3944</em>—Committed from Wirt County, under
+sentence of death for the brutal murder (by means
+of an ax) of his wife and step-son, a child in years,
+the motive being to obtain money to be inherited by
+them, is a constant reader of the Bible, and at all
+times is ready to argue passages of the Scriptures with
+any one who will do so with him. His attorneys
+secured for him a stay of execution pending an appeal
+to the Supreme Court.</p>
+
+<p><em>Serial No. 3972</em>—Colored, was committed from
+Kanawha Co. in 1901, for the brutal and unprovoked
+murder of a negro on account of some money won by
+gambling. He is a large, middle-aged, gross-looking
+negro, who has served a term in the penitentiary for
+stealing. From his life record he appears to have
+been a vagabond, gambling, preying on the people of
+his race for a living. He is possessed of some education,
+a glib tongue, and appears to have made some
+friends among white people, whom he says are his only
+friends and are the only persons who will give him<span class="pagenum" id="Page_100">[Pg 100]</span>
+any assistance in his effort to escape the gallows. He
+was to be executed March 22, 1901, but his attorney
+procured a stay of execution until April 25, pending
+an appeal to the Supreme Court. He is a constant
+reader of the Bible.</p>
+
+
+<h3>AN INNOCENT MAN.</h3>
+
+<p><em>Serial No. 3789</em>—Committed to the prison in 1899
+for twelve years, from Jefferson County, for the alleged
+crime, in company with other persons, of entering the
+Potomac river bridge toll-house at Shepherdstown and
+robbing Richard Morgan and wife, whom they bound
+and gagged, is an unfortunate victim of untoward
+circumstances. Evidence has come to light, proved
+by affidavit, that he is innocent.</p>
+
+
+<h3>THE PRISON CHOIR.</h3>
+
+<p>The prison choir is made up of a number of good
+singers, white and colored, the latter predominating.
+They are under the skill and direction of Mr. Chas. E.
+Woodburn, a well-known business man of Moundsville,
+who has devoted a number of years of his valuable
+time to these boys as well as to the chapel services,
+and aided the warden in providing amusement on
+holidays for the inmates.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_101">[Pg 101]</span></p>
+
+
+<h3>APPEAL FOR A PAROLE LAW.</h3>
+
+<p class="right">
+<span style="padding-right: 2em">West Virginia Penitentiary,</span><br>
+Moundsville, Jan. 1, 1901.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Dear Sir: Gratified that the generous people of
+West Virginia have in response to my letters of appeal
+to them dated Jan. 20, 1899, for donations of literature
+enabled me to build up a library for my convict
+charges to 12,000 volumes of books and magazines, I
+desire to further trespass on their generosity by asking
+for your support to bring about another measure
+of reform, viz., a parole law.</p>
+
+<p>The parole law is in force in a number of up-to-date
+state penitentiaries with remarkable success, bringing
+protection and good results to society. It saves trouble
+to prosecuting attorneys and criminal judges, and
+enables convicts to gain their liberty solely through
+their individual efforts. For instance, by virtue of the
+criminal statutes a convict may be sentenced for the
+minimum of one year or the maximum of five years.
+The criminal judge upon conviction of the prisoner on
+trial imposes an indefinite sentence. The convict after
+the expiration of one year may become eligible to
+parole if his record is exemplary. Two reliable
+citizens are required to become surety for the convict’s
+employment and future good conduct, then he is
+paroled.</p>
+
+<p>Upon violation of any of the parole conditions, he
+is returned to prison to serve the maximum sentence.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_102">[Pg 102]</span>
+If the convict is a man of family, he is enabled to provide
+for them; and if he is a single man, he has a
+chance to become a respected member of society and
+no longer a menace thereto. Respectfully yours,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+<span class="smcap">S. A. Hawk.</span><br>
+</p>
+
+
+<h3>THE WRITER’S LIFE.</h3>
+
+<p>That the reader may know and perhaps become interested
+in the writer of this sketch of the West Virginia
+prison, he herewith respectfully and modestly submits
+to them a sketch of his life. I was born in St. Louis,
+Mo., in 1844. My parents, possessed of more than the
+ordinary education the poor people of Ireland were
+enabled to receive, journeyed across the American
+desert to California, having their troubles with the
+Indians and their Mormon allies. My father hoped to
+strike a gold mine and become rich, and in the new
+Eldorado build a home and surround his wife and
+children—a girl and boy—with all the good things of
+earth that money could buy. Soon after our arrival
+at San Francisco, the cholera made its appearance, the
+plague having been brought to the golden shores of
+California by emigrants traveling from the east by way
+of Central America. My father was stricken with it
+and died. In the Lone Mountain cemetery, of the
+metropolis of the Pacific coast, he has lain buried for
+years. The remainder of the family escaped the dread
+fifty-one disease. Mother was left to struggle alone in<span class="pagenum" id="Page_103">[Pg 103]</span>
+a strange land and among strangers to provide for her
+children. Not afraid of work, she did her duty to her
+children nobly, faithfully, and well. She now lies
+buried beside my father in Lone Mountain cemetery,
+twenty years gone by.</p>
+
+<p>The war-bugle of the Rebellion rang in my ears and
+woke me to the realization that I had a country to
+protect and to save. I enlisted in a California regiment
+of cavalry and served three years with some
+merit. Upon my discharge from the army I entered
+an Illinois college to perfect my neglected education,
+and after graduation I located in Kansas City, Mo. I
+began at newspaper work, and have continued in that
+line of work to the present time, with occasional
+lapses from it to engage in other and more lucrative
+employment. A soldier of the civil war, having been
+wounded, injured, and having contracted disease in
+the line of duty, I was prompted upon McKinley’s
+election as President to apply for a pension. I went
+to Washington, D. C., to press my claim in person
+with the Commissioner of Pensions. He turned me
+down after I had some words with him relative to his
+delay in granting to me that which was mine by legal
+right and title, expressed by the American people
+through their representative in Congress assembled,
+and in fulfillment of promises made to the men who
+saved the nation. Somewhat addicted to the drink
+habit, I became drunk at my disappointment and the
+next day I found to my surprise that I was in the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_104">[Pg 104]</span>
+police station charged with breaking into and entering
+a small grocery in Washington City, two miles
+from my place of dwelling. The alleged damage
+inflicted was small, but Justice Clabaugh, who had
+recently been appointed from Maryland, said to me
+that five years was little enough for the alleged crime.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+Serial No. 378.<br>
+</p>
+<br>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_105">[Pg 105]</span></p>
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp100" id="i103" style="max-width: 62.5em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i103.jpg" alt="Penitentiary of the State of West Virginia">
+</figure>
+<br>
+
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop">
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_107">[Pg 107]</span></p>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="LETTERS_FROM_PRISON_OFFICIALS">LETTERS FROM PRISON OFFICIALS.</h2>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+<h3>PRISON LIBRARY DESTROYED BY FIRE.</h3>
+
+<p class="right">
+<span style="padding-right: 2em">Nebraska State Penitentiary.</span><br>
+<br>
+Lancaster, Neb., March 7, 1901.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Dear Sirs: Your consignment of eight books at
+hand, which is very much appreciated. We are doubly
+unfortunate at the present time, as we have just lost
+our entire library by fire. We realize too with you that
+imprisonment is the turning-point for the better in
+some men’s lives, as we see it exemplified here. At
+some future time we will send you for publication the
+views of some of the above men who believe they
+have been benefited by their prison experience.</p>
+
+<p>Thanking you again for the books sent, and in advance
+for any books you may see fit to send us, we
+remain, Yours respectfully,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Librarian.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="center no-indent">
+Clinton Prison.</p>
+<p class="right">Dannemora, N. Y., March 8, 1901.</p>
+
+<p class="no-indent">Gospel Trumpet Publishing Co.,<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">Moundsville, W. Va.</span></p>
+
+<p>Gentlemen: The books and tracts so kindly forwarded
+by you for the use of the prisoners in this prison
+have been received, and the note enclosed to the
+warden handed me for reply. Having charge of all<span class="pagenum" id="Page_108">[Pg 108]</span>
+literary material that comes into the prison, I take
+great pleasure in acknowledging receipt of same;
+and would extend to you my personal thanks, as also
+the gratitude of those whom this material was designed
+to benefit.</p>
+
+<p>I am glad that the spirit of the “inasmuch” as inculcated
+by the Lord Jesus, in relation to those who
+are in prison, is occasionally manifested, and that the
+rush and friction of wordliness does not wholly shut
+out from view the moral and religious needs of the
+“men behind the bars.” The good people to whom
+you refer in your letter, who are endeavoring to supply
+our prisons with good and wholesome literature, are
+entitled to great credit for their efforts in this direction,
+in these last days of the dispensation. May the
+blessings of our Divine Master be with them in their
+good work. Sincerely yours,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Chaplain.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="center no-indent">Iowa State Penitentiary.</p>
+<p class="right">Fort Madison, Iowa, March 17, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+The Gospel Trumpet Publishing Co.,<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">Moundsville, W. Va.</span><br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Gentlemen: The books sent by you to the penitentiary
+have been received, and will be placed in the
+hands of the men. Thanking you for the same, I am,
+Sincerely yours,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Chaplain.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_109">[Pg 109]</span></p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="center no-indent">Onondaga County Penitentiary.</p>
+<p class="right">Syracuse, N. Y., Jan. 17, 1901.</p>
+
+<p>Dear Sirs: Received three packages of books from
+Gospel Trumpet Publishing Co., Moundsville, W. Va.,
+for the benefit of the convicts in our institution.
+Hope the gift is accompanied by the prayers of all concerned
+in the donation. Yours truly,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Chaplain.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="center no-indent">Kansas State Prison.</p>
+<p class="right">Lansing, Kans., March 6, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+The Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">Moundsville, W. Va.</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>Gentlemen: We have received to-day your donation
+of books to this prison. We assure you that this gift
+of books is highly appreciated by us, and will be of
+great benefit to the inmates of this institution. We
+wish to thank you and others who are placing these
+books in the prisons of this country. Thank you for
+donations of the “Gospel Trumpet” to prisoners each
+week. Yours truly,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Chaplain.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<h3>BOOKS WANTED FOR FEMALE PRISONERS.</h3>
+
+<p class="center no-indent">Penitentiary at Anamosa.</p>
+<p class="right">Anamosa, Ia., March 6, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+The Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">Moundsville, W. Va.</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>We received this day one copy each of “The Kingdom
+of God,” “The Better Testament,” “Mothers’<span class="pagenum" id="Page_110">[Pg 110]</span>
+Counsel to Their Sons,” “Divine Healing,” “The
+Secret of Salvation” (English and German editions),
+“Songs of the Evening Light,” a Bagster’s Teachers’
+Bible. I find we have now seven copies of the book
+“The Secret of Salvation” in our library. We are
+obliged for copies of these and shall hope to inclose
+them in our revised catalogue which we hope soon to
+publish. You perhaps are not aware that we have a
+female department to the prison, but seeing “Letters
+of Love and Counsel for Our Girls” listed, leads me
+to refer to this fact. Your letter to the inmates is
+appreciated. Yours truly,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Acting Chaplain.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+<p class="center no-indent">New Jersey State Prison.</p>
+<p class="right">Trenton, March 5, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+E. E. Byrum.
+</p>
+
+<p>Dear Sir: The package of books and tracts which
+you sent for the benefit of the prisoners in our state
+prison came duly to hand, and the warden desires me
+to thank you for your timely gift. I will see that the
+books and tracts are judiciously distributed, so that
+good under the divine blessing may come through the
+reading of such good literature.... I will be glad to
+have you send religious reading matter for the prisoners,
+knowing that with His blessing much good can
+and will be accomplished by such a course. One of
+the factors leading to a life of crime has been the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_111">[Pg 111]</span>
+character of reading allowed in the home. Parents,
+ignorant or indifferent, have permitted their boys to
+devour dime novels and kindred literature until their
+minds have become saturated with evil. Now the
+antidote is good reading for the poor victims of parental
+neglect such as you propose to furnish....
+Thanking you for the interest you have taken in the
+welfare of those incarcerated here, and praying the
+blessing of the Great Head of the church upon you,
+I am, Yours truly,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Chaplain.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<h3>MORE GOOD BOOKS DESIRED.</h3>
+
+<p class="center no-indent">
+Louisiana Penitentiary.</p>
+<p class="right">Baton Rouge, La., March 13, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.
+</p>
+
+<p>My Dear Friends: Please allow me to thank you in
+behalf of the prisoners for the six books and Bibles you
+so kindly sent recently. We all appreciate the kind
+interest you take in us in sending the Gospel Trumpet
+and sincerely trust you will continue sending same, as
+we all very eagerly look forward to receiving it. If
+you have any more good books to spare we will be very
+glad to receive them, as we all enjoy reading very
+much. Again sincerely thanking you for past favors.
+Very respectfully,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Librarian.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_112">[Pg 112]</span></p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="center no-indent">Allegheny Penitentiary.</p>
+<p class="right">Allegheny, Pa., March 20, 1901.</p>
+
+<p>Dear Sir: I feel very glad that you are now and
+have been for some time so deeply interested in an
+uplift of the moral forces in prisons, and that your
+laudable work may result in much good, is my sincere
+desire. We have no prison paper published here to
+send you. We have a school six hours every day
+except Sunday for the illiterate, a Bible and hymn-book
+for each man that will use them, a library of
+8,500 volumes, hundreds of daily and weekly papers
+and magazines, Moody’s books and tracts, etc., by which
+we are striving to give light and spiritual help to the
+prisoners. Sincerely,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Chaplain.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="center no-indent">Connecticut State Prison.</p>
+<p class="right">Wethersfield, Conn., March 6, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+The Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">Moundsville, W. Va.</span><br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Gentlemen: The eight books sent this institution,
+including a Bagster Bible and song-book, came duly to
+hand. The Bible has been given a life prisoner, the
+song-book went to the choir, and the other books were
+turned over to the chaplain—who is the librarian—to
+be placed in general circulation. Respectfully yours,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Warden.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_113">[Pg 113]</span></p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+<p class="center no-indent">Idaho State Penitentiary.</p>
+<p class="right">Boise City, Idaho, March 8, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">Moundsville, W. Va.</span><br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Gentlemen: Yours of recent date enclosing letter to
+prisoners and referring to printed matter sent under
+separate cover at hand. The letter referred to shall be
+placed in a conspicuous place for review by the inmates
+of our institution. The reading matter will also be
+placed at their disposal. Be assured that this effort on
+the part of the “friend” who has paid for them is appreciated
+by the present Idaho Prison management.
+Yours sincerely,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Warden.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="center no-indent">Georgia State Prison Farms.</p>
+<p class="right">Statefarm, Ga., March 5, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">Moundsville, W. Va.</span><br>
+</p>
+
+<p>My Dear Sir: Your books received, and the
+Bible which is a very nice one. The song-book was
+sent to the female congregation for use by them. We
+have eighty-eight women there, some of them with
+good voices, and they sing well. We hope the words
+may prove a savor of life to them. The other books
+were sent to the male department, where we have one
+hundred and forty men and boys. We hope they too
+will prove a blessing, for the thing most important for
+a convict is salvation. I was pleased with the very
+excellent quality of books sent.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Supt.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_114">[Pg 114]</span></p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<h3>LETTER FROM A SHERIFF.</h3>
+
+<p class="right">Wheaton, Ill., April 23, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.</p>
+
+<p>Dear Sirs: I beg to acknowledge the receipt of a
+package of books and tracts sent me for the use of
+prisoners under my charge. Please accept my thanks
+for same. I heartily commend your efforts and work.
+Very truly yours,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Sheriff.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<h3>PRISON CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOR SOCIETY.</h3>
+
+<p class="right">Jackson, Mich., March 22, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">Moundsville, W. Va.</span><br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Gentlemen: The above named society desire you to
+know of their grateful appreciation for the donation
+of several valuable books. They comprise a splendid
+addition to our C. E. S. Library, which is eagerly read
+by the members and others. Thanking you for remembering
+us, I remain, Sincerely yours,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+6890, Corresponding Secretary.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<h3>HELP SUPPLY THE PRISONERS.</h3>
+
+<p class="center no-indent">Maine State Prison.</p>
+<p class="right">Thornston, Maine, April 30, 1901.</p>
+
+<p>Sirs: Your letter to the warden has been passed on
+to me. We are pleased to receive religious reading to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_115">[Pg 115]</span>
+be distributed to the convicts in this prison. I have
+an arrangement with many Christian friends who aid,
+so I am able to furnish some Christian book or paper
+to each convict each week. Yours in the work of saving
+the fallen,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Chaplain.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="center no-indent">Sing Sing Prison.</p>
+<p class="right">Sing Sing, N. Y., March 7, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">Moundsville, W. Va.</span><br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Dear Sirs: The books you sent for use of the prisoners
+in this prison have been received, and I thank
+you for the same. They have been placed in the
+library. It is always a pleasure to know that we are
+in the thoughts and consciences of the people on the
+great outside world.... Thanking you for your gift
+and wishing you success in your efforts to lift up fallen
+humanity, I remain, Fraternally yours,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Chaplain and Librarian.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<h3>PRISON LITERATURE APPRECIATED.</h3>
+
+<p class="right">
+Alva, Woods Co., Okla., Dec. 20, 1900.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Dear Sirs: Yours along with the books you sent
+were received last week and, as directed, the library
+was placed within the steel cage, where the prisoners
+could have free access to it. We would love to say a
+word of encouragement to the good people who are<span class="pagenum" id="Page_116">[Pg 116]</span>
+interesting themselves in behalf of the poor unfortunates
+behind iron bars, but we have not the command
+of language to express our admiration of this
+most commendable and noble work. No one can tell
+the good that may result from these silent companions,
+read by the poor unfortunates when shut in from
+the world. While we have never hoped to start a
+reform in prison life, we have often asked for more
+Christian interest in behalf of the prisoners. Accept
+our humble thanks for this most generous gift.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Former Jailer.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="center no-indent">California State Prison.</p>
+<p class="right">Represa, Sacramento Co., Cal., Feb. 13, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">Moundsville, W. Va.</span><br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Gentlemen: I beg to acknowledge the receipt of
+eight books for prison library. We are very grateful
+to receive anything in this line, and any sent will be
+thankfully received. Respectfully,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, General Overseer.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<h3>FROM A JAILER.</h3>
+
+<p class="right">Guthrie, Logan Co., Okla., June 14, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+Gospel Trumpet Publishing Co.:<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>I am glad to address you with a few lines to inform
+you that I received a package of books and tracts for<span class="pagenum" id="Page_117">[Pg 117]</span>
+the prisoners in my charge. The same have been
+handed them to read. I am glad to say that they
+enjoy reading them very much. I take an interest in
+reading them myself and think they are the best books
+and papers I ever read, and a great gift to the prisoners.
+They seem to condemn them of the crimes
+that they have committed. I am glad to say that the
+gospel can not be preached plainer than your books
+and papers preach it. I learn through your books
+and papers what it takes to constitute the church of
+God. The prisoners of this jail send their many
+thanks for the literature sent them.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Turnkey.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="center no-indent">California Prison.</p>
+<p class="right">San Quentin, Cal., March 8, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+Editor Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of your
+kind favor of books and one fine Bible for the prisoners.
+I have added the books to the library and
+presented the Bible to one of the most worthy and
+appreciative of the prisoners, whose letter I have enclosed.
+I believe our prisoners have been much helped
+by the distribution of your excellent religious literature
+and kindly gifts. I shall be pleased to receive
+any further contributions in this direction. Thanking
+you in the name of the prisoners, I am, Yours,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Chaplain.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_118">[Pg 118]</span></p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="center no-indent">North Dakota State Penitentiary.</p>
+<p class="right">Bismarck, N. D., April 11, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+Gospel Trumpet Publishing Co.,<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">Moundsville, W. Va.</span><br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Gents: I have to acknowledge receipt of yours of
+March 21st and owe you an apology for not giving you
+an earlier answer to same. You are doing a good
+work which is, I believe, appreciated by the unfortunates
+whom you are seeking to benefit, as well as by
+those who have them in charge. This is a small institution;
+we have at this date one hundred and fifteen
+inmates, all men. The moral conditions are, I believe,
+fairly good in the institution but there is great
+chance for improvement and I will be grateful for
+anything you may be able to do to assist in that direction,
+and trust that I may be able later on to assist you
+in the noble work in which you are engaged. Respectfully,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Warden.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+<h3>BOOKS USED UNTIL WORN OUT.</h3>
+
+<p class="center no-indent">Kentucky Penitentiary.</p>
+<p class="right">Frankfort, Ky., Feb. 8, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">Moundsville, W. Va.</span><br>
+</p>
+
+<p>We have received from your publishing house a nice
+package of good books. I take this opportunity to
+acknowledge receipt of same, and to thank you kindly
+for this generous donation. The books are turned<span class="pagenum" id="Page_119">[Pg 119]</span>
+into the hands of the prisoners, who take them
+eagerly, and are very grateful for them. They are
+passed from one to another until they are literally worn
+out. Allow me to say in this connection, that the
+problem of criminology in this country must be solved
+by other means than the punitive, and retributive idea.
+We have been more than a century trying every plan
+that man can devise to check and cure this growing
+curse. We must turn to the means provided by God
+Almighty. The gospel of Jesus Christ is the only and
+true remedy. Disseminating good literature, and
+instructing in the ways of life, is a step in the right
+direction. I have made a study of the subjects under
+my charge, for nearly three years, and find that the
+man who fails to accept Jesus, and have his soul
+washed in his blood, in most cases leaves this place
+still a criminal. May God help us to lead them into
+the light. Many blessings upon you for your act of
+mercy. Very truly, your brother and co-worker,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Chaplain.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="center no-indent">Michigan State Prison.</p>
+<p class="right">Jackson, Mich., March 11, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">Moundsville, W. Va.</span><br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Gentlemen: We are in receipt of the very excellent
+collection of books you sent us for the use of the men
+in our institution. Please accept our grateful thanks<span class="pagenum" id="Page_120">[Pg 120]</span>
+for the same, and be assured they will be eagerly read
+and highly prized by the men. Too much can not be
+said of the beneficial influence of good books in the
+prison. Men will carefully read books in here that
+they would not look at outside. And then too they
+have time to digest what they read. Again thanking
+you for your kind remembrance of us, I beg leave to
+remain, Yours truly,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Chaplain.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+<p class="right">
+Dover, Del., Aug. 6, 1900.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>I received the tracts that you sent, and distributed
+them among the prisoners. They seem to enjoy them
+more than anything they have ever had in the way of
+reading. I shall be more than glad to distribute all
+such reading as that proves to be. Yours respectfully,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Warden of the Kent County Prison.<br>
+</p>
+
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop">
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_121">[Pg 121]</span></p>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="TESTIMONIES_OF_CONVICTS">TESTIMONIES OF CONVICTS.</h2>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+<h3>FELLOW PRISONERS, TAKE COURAGE.</h3>
+
+<p class="right">
+Moundsville, W. Va.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Through the kindness of the warden I am permitted
+to present a small sketch of my prison life. I am
+glad to avail myself of the opportunity of relating my
+experience in the earnest hope that some one as unfortunate
+as myself may be benefited thereby. That
+this is written within prison-walls will, I feel, prove
+none the less interesting. The first night I spent in
+prison will never be forgotten. When the cell-doors
+clanged, closing in upon me, I felt my very heart sink
+within me. Then with a contrite heart I looked to
+Jesus, and spent the night in prayer. Oh, what a
+comfort he has been to me! I then and there made
+up my mind to follow in his footsteps, and devote my
+life to him.</p>
+
+<p>With a change of heart, Christ has ever been with
+and bountifully blessed me. I meet with great kindness
+from Christian people, and every consideration from
+our noble warden and his officers. Because I am in
+prison I need not be useless nor unhappy. I accept my
+situation as of divine appointment, and will try to be
+contented with it. Lamenting over the past will do<span class="pagenum" id="Page_122">[Pg 122]</span>
+no good, for I can not recall or change it. Complaining
+of the present will not mend but make myself and
+others wretched. Anxiety about the future will not
+make it any better. My heavenly Father has permitted
+things to be just as they are, and I know he loves me.
+I will therefore leave all to him. No rebellion shall
+be cherished in my heart, and no murmur shall escape
+my lips. My Savior has promised that his grace shall
+be sufficient for me. He will never leave me, but be
+a present help in time of need. Trusting in him and
+committing all to my loving Father’s care, I will do
+what I can. I will make the place where my lot is
+cast as bright and cheerful as possible, and work and
+wait with patience till I am permitted to go to my
+heavenly home.</p>
+
+<p>I am indebted to many of my Christian friends, to
+all of whom I extend my heartfelt thanks for many
+acts of kindness, of which one is in supplying me
+with a fine Teachers’ Bible and other good religious
+reading matter. My Bible has been to me a constant
+source of pleasure, it has dispersed the dark cloud of
+sorrow and let in the sunlight of God’s love. There
+was a time when I believed every earthly friend had
+forsaken me, and that I was only known by a number—the
+number on the books of a prison. In a cell,
+yea, shut away from the full light of day, shut away
+from man, I was lonely, friendless, forgotten—a boy
+who was once free as heaven’s sunshine, free as the
+birds whose songs I loved to hear. I remembered my<span class="pagenum" id="Page_123">[Pg 123]</span>
+home, my mother, the good-night kisses, the lilacs,
+the roses, the orchard, the swing, the schoolhouse,
+and the playmates. Then I thought of that beautiful
+and pathetic hymn, “Oh, where is my wandering boy
+to-night?” and I resolved that I would flee to the One
+whom God had appointed to bring forth the prisoner
+from the prison-house of sin. My brothers, you are
+not forgotten. If mother is alive, she is praying for
+you, and the God to whom she prays loves you. “Yea,
+I have loved thee with an everlasting love”; “and, lo,
+I am with you always.” He has all the angels of
+heaven working to help fallen humanity to be saved
+from sin. “Are they not all ministering spirits, sent
+forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?”—Heb.
+1:14. And I am glad that I can testify
+to the facts, that behind prison-walls, in the dark
+shadows of a prison-cell, are sons and daughters of
+God, heirs of God, joint-heirs with Christ, heirs of
+salvation, and to these heirs of salvation angels are
+sent forth to minister. The angel in your cell waits,
+brother. Kneel and pray. “If we confess our sins,
+he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to
+cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”—1 Jno. 1:9.</p>
+
+<p>Can I, can you, live a Christian life in bondage?
+My answer is in the affirmative. It has been tested
+and proved beyond a doubt. I will recall the incident
+of Joseph. When he was a mere boy he was sold by
+his brethren and cast into bondage. He resisted
+temptation, even when he knew that in so doing he was<span class="pagenum" id="Page_124">[Pg 124]</span>
+taking just so many steps toward the dungeon. Gen.
+39:7-20. In adversity, as well as in prosperity, he
+gave all honor to God. Gen. 41:16. He forgave his
+brethren when most men would have been tempted to
+punish them. Gen. 50:15-21. We can learn from
+Joseph’s prison life a remarkable lesson. That God
+was with him in all things was unmistakably true.
+He was blessed and elevated to noble positions. This
+honor he gained by his uprightness in his daily walk
+before God. Gen. 39:21-23; Acts 7:9. God used him
+as an instrument to unfold his plans. Gen. 45:5-8;
+50:20; Acts 7:9-14. If Joseph, a mere boy, could
+walk uprightly before God and receive a blessing in
+prison, I or any one else can do the same by the grace
+of God, and by his grace I will. And again, Peter,
+the apostle of Jesus Christ, was imprisoned by Herod
+and was delivered by an angel through the prayer of
+the church, yet he could not realize that he was released
+from his bonds and imprisonment, but thought
+that it was a vision. Acts 12:4-9. Paul and Silas
+suffered bonds of imprisonment, and stripes of persecution
+for proclaiming the gospel of Christ, and
+during all their persecution sang songs of praise and
+lifted their voices in prayer to the Lord. Acts 16:22-26.
+If all of these men could offer so much praise to
+God under such trying circumstances, I or any one
+else can do the same, but only through his grace. By
+his grace I will. When we fully submit our minds to
+God’s mind and plans, then God will teach us the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_125">[Pg 125]</span>
+sweet lesson that “all things work together for good
+to them that love God.”—Rom. 8:28. Trust him
+and open your heart to him and you will experience
+this peace which he gives to his followers, a peace
+such as the world can neither give nor take away.</p>
+
+<p>In conclusion I must say, if the dear readers could
+but hear the pleading, fervent prayers and the touching
+testimonies of these unfortunates, they would place
+a higher estimate on the prisoner, and by word and act
+help him rise, as it were, above his surroundings. The
+prisoners are given to understand by our warden that
+the prayer-meeting services are theirs, and let me say
+there are about fifty of the boys here who try to make
+the best of it, and in no single instance have they
+violated the privilege granted to them during this
+service. I consider it a privilege to stand up for God,
+even within the confining bars of a penitentiary. My
+brother prisoner, the Master is calling for you. Think
+of it, whosoever believeth on God’s only Son, a free
+and a full salvation shall he have, for God is both
+willing and able to save. “What must I do to be
+saved? And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus
+Christ, and thou shalt be saved.”—Acts 16:30. Salvation
+is in the name of Jesus; “neither is there salvation
+in any other: for there is none other name
+under heaven given among men, whereby we must be
+saved.”—Acts 4:12. “Choose you this day whom ye
+will serve.”—Josh. 24:15. May God bless and uplift
+the fallen everywhere.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+Serial No. 2282.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_126">[Pg 126]</span></p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+<h3>SAVED BEHIND PRISON-BARS.</h3>
+
+<p class="right">
+Washington Co. Jail, Potasi, Mo., Sept. 23, 1900.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>I was a very wicked man when I was put in here,
+but by reading books and tracts sent me I soon realized
+my condition, and oh, how I repented of my many
+sins and called on God for mercy! Now I am so happy
+to tell you that he freely forgave me all. Praise
+his dear name! Although I have been in here long
+time my hours have been sweet since I found Jesus.
+I expect to leave here in a few days for the state prison
+at Jefferson City, but oh, I have the sweet promise:
+“I will never leave thee nor forsake thee.” I have
+promised God that the rest of my days shall be spent
+for him who has done so much for me. I expect to
+work for God all I can while in the penitentiary, distributing
+papers and books that are sent to me for that
+purpose. Dear ones, pray that God may ever use me.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+J. H. R.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<h3>FROM A CONDEMNED PRISONER.</h3>
+
+<p class="right">
+Santa Fe, New Mexico.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Through the kindness of a lady in California a few
+copies of your paper, the Gospel Trumpet, have found
+their way into this prison (Santa Fe, New Mexico).
+Each copy has been met with a hearty welcome, and
+well read. This prison has about 230 men behind its
+walls. About one hundred of these men can read the
+English language, and are in need of the true gospel.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_127">[Pg 127]</span>
+If any of God’s children who read this feel that they
+would like to send a few copies of the Trumpet, or
+tracts, or any other spiritual literature to this prison,
+the writer will take pleasure in distributing the same.</p>
+
+<p>I am happy to say that I feel the effects of the many
+earnest prayers that are rising daily in my behalf. I
+am a condemned man and have been lying under a
+death sentence for over thirteen months. My case will
+be disposed of in August, and I need the prayers of
+all God’s dear people. Brothers and sisters, pray for
+me. I have many friends and loved ones praying that
+it may be God’s will to give me my liberty next spring.
+Will every one who may read this join us in this prayer,
+and always close with “God’s will be done.” Dear
+ones, I am only in one of God’s schools, and his great
+Spirit gives me strength to rejoice with all my sad
+trouble. I was placed in this dungeon April 4, 1899,
+and have not seen a star since. Oh, I know they
+would look beautiful! The sun never reaches my
+little palace; but I am happy to say, “There is sunshine
+in my soul to-day.” Have not been sick an
+hour since here. All the praise to my dear Savior.
+I am expecting to get my case reversed in August, am
+putting my trust in higher power than man. “If
+God be for us, who can be against us?”—Rom. 8:31.
+I know that I have the prayers and sympathy of every
+one that loves Jesus Christ and his cause, and when
+my case is decided I will let you all know the verdict
+through the Trumpet. My enemies are many, and I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_128">[Pg 128]</span>
+will ask you all to remember them daily, in your
+prayers. I love their souls, and my earnest prayer is
+that I may meet them all in heaven. Reader, meet
+me at Jesus’ feet.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+W. B. H., Box 426.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="center no-indent">Territorial Prison of Arizona.</p>
+<p class="right">Yuma, Ariz., Nov. 17, 1900.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Dear Sirs: Our honorable superintendent gave me
+your letter accompanying some books and tracts you
+sent to the prisoners in the Territorial Prison at
+Yuma, Arizona, a few days ago. As it happens to be
+my misfortune to be one of the number incarcerated
+in this place, I take pleasure in writing you and telling
+my experience of what Jesus can do for a man
+behind the prison-walls. Like many others behind
+the prison-bars, no doubt, I enjoyed the blessing of
+being brought up in a Christian community, but had
+never been brought to the realization of the fact that
+I needed the protection of a loving Savior to guide me
+through this life, and like the prodigal son I thought
+I could take care of myself. But like so many hundreds
+of others that take no heed to their earlier training,
+fell into bad company, which finally led to the
+cause of my misfortune that placed me behind the
+prison-walls.</p>
+
+<p>At first the thought of being in prison, and loved
+ones at home, almost drove me wild. The days were
+too long, the nights too long; I could not content myself<span class="pagenum" id="Page_129">[Pg 129]</span>
+with reading, and could scarcely work. I thought
+I was the most miserable man on earth, and almost
+wished I could die. Finally I concluded to try to
+read the Bible. I had scarcely looked in a Bible for
+nine years, much less read a single chapter. So I
+secured a Bible and began at the first chapter of
+Genesis, and read a few chapters at leisure hours. I
+would mark the place where I left off and commence
+there when I had another opportunity to read. The
+more I read the more interesting it became; so I
+finally read it through. By the time I read it through
+I had become so interested I would take the Bible to
+the cell with me at night and read till the lights were
+turned out, and I concluded to read it through again
+and take more time in reading and try to get a better
+understanding of it. Before I got through the second
+time I was convicted by the Spirit of God. I realized
+that I was not only a convict, but a sinner. I accepted
+Christ as my Savior, and have been trying to serve him
+ever since.</p>
+
+<p>It has made a new man of me. The days and nights
+are now not too long, and I can work as though I were
+drawing a salary. The Bible is the most precious
+book in the world to me, and the longer I serve Christ
+the more I am determined to serve him the remainder
+of my life. My prayer is that every man behind the
+prison-bars may accept Christ as their Savior, while in
+prison; for if they wait until they get out, the temptations
+are too great and the chances are against them.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_130">[Pg 130]</span>
+My advice to my fellow convicts is to read the Bible;
+if it is not interesting at first it will become interesting;
+it will broaden your minds, it will make
+better men and women of you, it will help you to bear
+your burdens, and may be the means of saving your
+souls.</p>
+
+<p>I thank you for the books and tracts, and assure you
+they will be read and appreciated by quite a number
+of the men here, and trust God will bless you in your
+efforts to lead fallen men to the Savior.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+R. C.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="right">
+Jackson, Mo., April 4, 1900.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>We, the prisoners of Jackson, Missouri, thank you
+for sending us those good papers. We would to God
+we were able to express our gratitude for the Gospel
+Trumpet and to you for your great desire to help us to
+be better men. I wish we had thousands of such men
+and women as you are. I do wish that every poor
+soul in this world could get a Gospel Trumpet and
+read and see the great light it gives to any one trying
+to serve the true God. I desire your faithful prayers
+to help me bear the cross, and also wish the prayers
+of all your brothers and friends that I may be a better
+man. Pray God to deliver me from my enemies and
+out of this prison. I have a dear wife and six little
+children and want to return home to them. I will
+leave here to-morrow for Jefferson City Mo. prison,
+and hope to hear from you again. May God help you
+to help every poor soul.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+L. L. B.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_131">[Pg 131]</span></p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+<p class="right">
+Charleston, Mo., April 18, 1900.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>In reply to your letter of April 16, it was kindly
+received by the prisoners in jail, and we were very
+thankful to you for those papers you sent. All the
+boys send their many thanks. There are nine here
+and expect to be here for quite a while, and would like
+very much if you only had some one come here and
+talk to us and bring us papers. Hoping to hear from
+you again and receive some more papers. Many
+thanks from all the prisoners in jail.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+<p class="right">
+Greenville, Mo., March 27, 1900.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Yours of the 26th received with roll of papers.
+Must say we were glad to get them. We are glad to
+have plenty at all times. As may be expected, there
+are some in this prison who need something to encourage
+them, and should you deem it expedient you
+may send us some papers, such as you may think best
+to send. I for one need reformation and will be
+pleased to have your assistance in trying to follow the
+steps of the Savior. Your well wisher.</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+<p class="right">
+Jefferson City, Mo., April 10, 1900.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>We, the prisoners of Cole County Jail, received your
+kind letter and papers this morning. We are very
+thankful to you for your good wishes and appreciate
+your interest in us to help us to be better men. It<span class="pagenum" id="Page_132">[Pg 132]</span>
+is a matter to be deplored that in the great state of Mo.
+there are so few who would put out the hand of mercy
+to fallen humanity. Your papers will always be welcome,
+and we hope they will do the good you intend.
+With sincere good wishes we subscribe ourselves</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+Prisoners of Cole County Jail.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>P. S. A Bible and gospel hymn-book would be
+very much appreciated.</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+<p class="right">
+Nevada, Mo., April 19, 1900.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>It is with pleasure I answer your most kind and welcome
+letter received the 18th with joy and delight.
+There are ten men in this jail and each sends his
+thanks to you for your kindness. Nearly every word
+in the papers has been read. I am not a Christian,
+but I ofttimes wish I could be converted, for the
+Christians seem to be so happy, and I cherish a hope
+that I may soon get out of darkness into light. I was
+in here four months without any Christian influence or
+Christian papers to read, and my mind seemed to
+wander away to some unknown realm of darkness until
+the last night of March, when the door opened and
+we were presented with some little books, and on
+the first day of April we received another roll and also
+some papers which were sent to us by the good Christian
+ladies of Nevada, and you do not know how it
+brightened my hopes and prospects. It made me
+think that I had some friends to speak a word of encouragement<span class="pagenum" id="Page_133">[Pg 133]</span>
+to me. We like the Gospel Trumpet.
+It is a splendid paper for any one to read, and I hope
+I may have the pleasure of reading more of them.
+Your true friend,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="right">
+Centerville, Ala., Sept. 9, 1900.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>I will answer your letter. I was glad to get your
+books; they gave me much light. I have been in jail
+a long time and you are the first one that has ever
+sent me anything to read. I would like to have some
+more books to read. Yours,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+J. D. W.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="right">
+Will County Jail, Joliet, Ill., April 7, 1900.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>We, the inmates of this institution, surely appreciate
+the consideration which you have taken in us.
+And as the County of Will does not furnish a library
+we the inmates will be pleased to receive any literature
+which you have to spare.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+Inmates.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="right">
+Georgetown, Del., Aug. 7, 1900.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>We received those little books and tracts, and we
+prisoners were very glad to receive them, although we
+are all sinners in this place. There are nineteen of us
+at present—seven white men and twelve colored men.
+We are treated very kindly by the keepers. Please
+send us more books.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+From the Prisoners.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_134">[Pg 134]</span></p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="right">
+Hartford, Conn., Aug. 12, 1900.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>We have to again thank you for sending us books,
+tracts, etc. We fully appreciate the motives with
+which these books are sent, and are sure that they
+will bear fruit in due season. The books, etc., are
+very interesting and are looked forward to with great
+pleasure. We trust that everybody who reads them
+will be benefited by their teachings. And when we
+are permitted to go forth into the world again, we
+trust we may be able to render assistance to some
+needy brother or sister who is seeking to find Jesus.
+May God bless you in your good work. In behalf of
+the prisoners in Hartford Jail. I beg to remain yours
+sincerely,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+J. W. C.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="right">
+Jefferson City, Mo., Aug. 22, 1900.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>I will drop you a few lines in answer to yours, which
+I received, and also a package of books which I was
+also glad to receive, and pleased to hear from you. I
+am still trusting in God, and will trust in him until
+death. There are five boys in here beside myself,
+who are reading those books that you sent me. They
+think them good. It does me good to know they like
+them. I am going to live for God the rest of my days,
+and keep out of trouble. I have sadly repented of
+this, and I know God forgives me. I have promised
+my God that I will serve him the rest of my days, and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_135">[Pg 135]</span>
+I am going to keep it by the help of God. Many
+thanks for those books. From your saved brother,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+H. T. B.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<h3>FROM A CALIFORNIA PRISONER.</h3>
+
+<p class="right">
+San Quentin, Cal., March 8, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">Moundsville, W. Va.</span><br>
+</p>
+
+<p>My Dear Friends: Your very kind letter addressed
+to the prisoners has been given to me by the chaplain
+to answer. It is a great consolation to the prisoners
+to know that there are good people in the world who
+sympathize with the unfortunate. The Gospel Trumpet
+has been eagerly sought after and read with interest
+and benefit by many of the boys. It is casting
+bread upon the waters of life. We frequently have it
+thrown in our faces—those who are trying to live the
+Christian life—that state’s prison is a poor place to
+come to get religion. Now I admit that this is true,
+also that it is a poor place to come to for any purpose
+provided that we are obliged to come as so many of us
+are; however, I thank God that I have found the
+way to a better life notwithstanding I am in state’s
+prison. It is better to find Christ in prison than not
+to find him at all. If we repent and ask Christ to
+forgive us, he is willing and able to forgive us in prison
+as well as anywhere else, and to cleanse us from all
+sin. I thank God that I can report victory through<span class="pagenum" id="Page_136">[Pg 136]</span>
+grace. Christ is able to save me and keep me in
+prison. The farther along, the brighter the way
+grows. Salvation has made such a radical change in
+my life that I can scarcely recognize my former self.
+God has so strengthened my faith as to banish all
+doubts and fears and filled me with humble, peaceful
+love. Thank God for this glorious change. I am
+indeed in full possession of a new nature; old things
+have passed away; behold, all things are become new.
+I received from our chaplain the elegant Bible which
+you sent. I assure you that I appreciate it very much
+and will keep it as a great treasure while I live. Those
+other books are highly appreciated. Surely it is casting
+your bread upon the waters of life. Christ said he
+that giveth unto the least of God’s creatures a cup of
+cold water will receive his reward. Your gift is a well
+of water flowing over, and God will reward you in proportion.
+Your brother in Christ,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Serial Number 1055.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<h3>PAPERS AND BOOKS SOLICITED.</h3>
+
+<p class="right">
+Walla Walla, Washington, Feb. 19, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+Mr. E. E. Byrum,<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">Moundsville, W. Va.</span><br>
+</p>
+
+<p>My Dear Sir: A fellow inmate of this, the Washington
+State Penitentiary, has been kind enough, on two
+or three occasions, to permit me a perusal of your
+most excellent publication, the Gospel Trumpet. I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_137">[Pg 137]</span>
+feel certain that I have been benefited through the
+privilege, as within a sinful environment, such as
+obtained here, one needs the wholesome and uplifting
+encouragement that is breathed through the columns
+of your magazine. In one of your issues I note that
+you have a fund set aside the proceeds of which are
+devoted to furnishing Christian literature to those
+whose lack of means precludes them from otherwise
+obtaining it. Had I the money I would gladly remit
+for a supply, but isolated as I am I am unable to provide
+it, and therefore, if I may presume upon your
+charity, I assure you that I shall feel truly grateful for
+any remembrance which your goodness may prompt
+you to tender. Thanking you in advance for a
+response, I remain, Yours very truly,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+——, Prisoner.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<h3>FROM A LIFE PRISONER.</h3>
+
+<p class="center no-indent">Nevada State Prison.</p>
+<p class="right">Carson City, Nev., April 18, 1901.</p>
+<p class="no-indent">
+The Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co.,<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">Moundsville, W. Va.</span><br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Dear Friends: Your kind letter and the books were
+duly received, for which please accept my thanks. I
+read your letter to the men one Sunday morning
+just at the opening of service. The effect of its kindly
+expressions upon the men in general I am unable to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_138">[Pg 138]</span>
+state, but personally I wish to thank you. I have
+read your books and like them. I like the plain
+speaking which I find there, in denouncing this makebelieve
+Christianity. Above all men, the prisoner is
+quick to see the non-practice of the teachings of Jesus
+by his professed followers, and seeing it, they conclude
+it is all pretense. I speak of those who read the Bible.
+Consequently very few make any effort to lead a true
+life, and care very little for Christian reading. Of
+course they are wrong in that respect, as they have
+been in many others, but being blind they are unable
+to see, I know, and so does any one who thinks or
+reads, that our penal systems are of the most unChristlike
+nature possible, breathing more of the
+spirit of hell than of the spirit that lifts heavenward.
+Why our people will continue in this spirit I know not.
+Perhaps some time a true soul will arise in this special
+subject and bring about more righteous conditions.
+God grant that it be so.</p>
+
+<p>With many thanks for your kindly interest in the
+prisoner, and for the books sent, I am, with Christian
+love, Respectfully yours,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+E. S. ——, Life Prisoner.<br>
+</p>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p class="right">
+Jonesboro, Ark.<br>
+</p>
+
+<p>Dear Friend: We received your letter and books.
+We were so glad to get them. We were playing cards
+when the sheriff handed them to us. We laid the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_139">[Pg 139]</span>
+cards away and went to reading, and the more we read
+the more interested we became. I have prayed to
+God to forgive me of my sins and I believe he does,
+and I want you to pray for me. There are three other
+men in here that have turned to God, and it all came
+about through the letters and books. We thank you for
+the Testament. Pray for us and please send us more
+of those books and papers. They help us so much.</p>
+
+
+<h3>FROM A PRISON WORKER.</h3>
+
+<p>The prison work is growing and precious souls are
+being saved. It is wonderful how readily these men
+accept the full teaching of the Bible, taking Christ
+as their Savior and Healer. When I read their letters
+so cheerful and so happy in Jesus, it makes me to
+rejoice. The work is spreading from state to state
+and calls are coming in for pure literature. The state
+prisons have libraries in them, but they are filled with
+novels (so the prisoners tell me), and they desire something
+better. When these books and papers are put in
+their hands they forsake the cards and novels and read
+something that will do them good. We thank God
+for those who have helped us so much in this work, but
+our need this morning is greater than ever because the
+work is greater, and we are praying God to touch the
+hearts of his people to supply the free-literature fund
+with ample means to send us another shipment of
+books and tracts. A prisoner in Jefferson City and
+one in Menard, Ill. have permission to distribute<span class="pagenum" id="Page_140">[Pg 140]</span>
+books and tracts they receive and they are faithfully
+discharging their duty. May God help us to keep
+them supplied, and not them only but other prisons as
+well. We do not feel like it is God’s will for us to
+quit the field now and turn it over to the enemy when
+souls are being saved. Let each one do his duty and
+the work can be carried on without any one feeling the
+burden. Your co-laborer in the work,</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+L. P——.<br>
+</p>
+
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop">
+
+<div class="chapter">
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_141">[Pg 141]</span></p>
+
+<h2 class="nobreak" id="RELEASED_FROM_PRISON"><em>RELEASED FROM PRISON.</em></h2>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="r5">
+
+<p>A sentence to a term of years in prison in many
+states is commuted to “short time,” so many days
+being deducted from each month for good behavior.
+An attempt to escape or continuance in disobedience
+will require a full-term service. In some states there
+is a parole law where for good behavior prisoners may
+be paroled or given liberty to go anywhere in the state
+by reporting once or twice a month, stating their
+whereabouts, and at the end of a given period, if they
+do not abuse their privileges by leaving the state, they
+will be given a final discharge.</p>
+
+<p>The state of West Virginia has recently passed a bill
+to create and establish a free public employment
+bureau, which came into effect May 15, 1901, as follows:</p>
+
+<p>“Be it known by the legislature of West Virginia:</p>
+
+<p>“1. The Commissioner of Labor is hereby authorized
+to organize and establish in connection with the bureau
+of labor a free public employment bureau for the purpose
+of receiving applications from persons seeking
+employment and applications from persons seeking to
+employ laborers.</p>
+
+<p>“2. No compensation or fee shall be charged or
+received directly or indirectly from persons applying<span class="pagenum" id="Page_142">[Pg 142]</span>
+for work, information, or help through said department.
+The Commissioner of Labor is hereby authorized
+to employ such assistance and incur such expense
+as may be necessary to carry into effect the purpose of
+this act, but such assistance and expense shall not
+exceed $500.00 per annum,” etc., etc.</p>
+
+<p>In compliance with this act of the legislature a free
+public employment bureau has been established at
+Wheeling, twelve miles from Moundsville penitentiary.
+This will not only be the means of furnishing men
+with work who have never been in prison and thus
+keep them out, but will be a privilege much appreciated
+by those who have just been released. It would
+be wisdom on the part of the lawmakers of every
+state to thus provide a similar institution somewhere
+near their state prisons.</p>
+
+<p>To the prisoner whose term has just expired we
+desire to give a few words of advice. You now start
+out in life anew. There are great responsibilities before
+you. No doubt many of you the world will meet
+with a frown, and look disdainfully upon you because
+of your past career, or that you have been in prison.
+Do not give way to discouragement under such circumstances;
+face the world with a smile, shun the places
+of vice and wickedness, shun evil companions; and on
+the other hand, seek society that will be elevating. If
+strong drink was at one time a temptation to you or
+the cause of your downfall, shun the places where it
+is sold or used as you would shun death itself. Likewise<span class="pagenum" id="Page_143">[Pg 143]</span>
+shun the card-table and pool-room, which only lead
+to a drunkard’s life. Always have courage enough to
+say No when evil companions seek to lead you astray.
+There is a God in heaven who will help you. Let not
+a day pass by without prayer to him for his direction
+and his protection. If you have never received a
+change of heart, do not rest satisfied nor cease pressing
+the battle on that line until you have obtained the
+peace of God in your soul, which is beyond understanding
+and flows as a river from the throne of God.
+You may have many temptations to fall back into your
+old habits of life, but by persistent resentment and
+applying to the Lord for help you will be enabled to
+come out victorious. I remember a few years ago a
+young man was released from a prison in New York
+because of his good behavior and was given an honorable
+discharge. He did not care to take up his old
+habits again, but as he wandered about from place to
+place meeting old companions and associating with
+them, he found great difficulty in refraining from
+picking people’s pockets, as he had been in the habit
+of doing in former years. When the temptation came
+upon him it was almost like the mania of a drunkard
+for strong drink, but by asserting his manhood and
+making a firm resolve and acting upon it, he decided
+to live a true and honest life. He left his associates to
+attend a religious meeting where he heard the gospel
+preached in all its purity, and there he yielded himself
+to God and was pardoned of all his actual transgressions.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_144">[Pg 144]</span>
+Although the effects of his sinful, wicked life
+had been so great that he had many struggles for
+months afterwards, he had taken a step forward and
+there was a marked change in his life from that time
+as well as in his heart, and soon he became established
+in the ways of truth and righteousness, married a
+respectable lady, and has ever since lived the life of
+the righteous and been highly esteemed by those who
+know him.</p>
+
+<p>A more striking illustration of the appreciation of
+freedom could scarcely be given than that of the recent
+liberation of the Younger Brothers. A little over a
+quarter of a century ago the state of Missouri and surrounding
+country were terrorized by daring raids made
+by the Younger Brothers and James Brothers, who
+formed a company of the most daring outlaws and
+bandits known in this country.</p>
+
+<p>These desperadoes were captured and incarcerated in
+prison at Stillwater, Minn., in close confinement for
+almost twenty-five years. It is reported that for fifteen
+years their lives have been reformed, and in July, 1901
+they were liberated under the parole law with the
+restrictions that they were not to leave the confines of
+the state of Minnesota. Neither are they allowed to
+drink intoxicants nor lead a life that is anything but
+sober and industrious.</p>
+<br>
+
+<figure class="figcenter illowp85" id="i143" style="max-width: 62.5em;">
+  <img class="w100" src="images/i143.jpg" alt="Cole and James Younger">
+  <figcaption class="caption">
+
+<p class="center no-indent">
+COLE YOUNGER. <span style="padding-left: 5em">JAMES YOUNGER.</span><br>
+</p>
+</figcaption>
+</figure>
+<br>
+
+<p>During the twenty-five years of their prison life the
+outside world had made many changes. There had
+been many wonderful inventions, and when released
+<span class="pagenum" id="Page_147">[Pg 147]</span>they were like school children on a playground. They
+hardly knew which way to turn. The outside world
+was all strange to them. Although being men whose
+years number into the fifties, they went about as children,
+laughed and cried alternately for joy, talked by
+telephone, rode in an electric car, and enjoyed themselves
+in many ways, while kind friends aided in clearing
+away the mists caused by twenty-five years of awful
+solitude. In order to better understand their appreciation
+of freedom we here quote their conversation upon
+entering the city. Cole Younger remarked to his
+brother: “I assure you that this is the best moment of
+my life. Just think of it! From now I can act just
+the same as any one else, but I suppose it will be hard
+for me to confine myself to the new rules that I find
+on the outside. I have been accustomed to going to bed
+early, and I expect I will want to keep early hours
+when I get out. You can not imagine how I felt to
+put on this brand-new suit of store clothes this morning.
+Only once before since we came to this prison, a
+quarter of a century ago, have I donned citizen’s attire,
+and that was when I put on the deputy warden’s
+suit and sat for a photograph. My clothes look a little
+odd to me; they are not quite in style with my regulation
+first-grade prison suit, but I suppose they go on
+the outside. Bless God and our loyal friends for this
+moment, which is one of supreme happiness. For the
+first time in many years I feel relieved. I feel now as
+if a great unbearable load of some kind has been lifted<span class="pagenum" id="Page_148">[Pg 148]</span>
+from my shoulders, and that this is the beginning of a
+new life. Boys, I want to thank you from the bottom
+of my heart for your assistance.”</p>
+
+<p>Although these men were daring desperadoes when
+placed in prison, yet, notwithstanding the great
+reformation that has taken place in their lives during
+these years of solitude, we do not wonder that their actions
+were like those of children, when we take into consideration
+that they were both sentenced for life. We
+trust their future days may prove to prison officials and
+the world at large that the Younger Brothers are
+worthy of such a favor, and that their future career
+and this action of the Minnesota officials may be an
+impetus towards the liberation of every life prisoner,
+giving them a chance once more to delight in the
+freedom which men should enjoy.</p>
+
+<p>A few years ago, in conversation with the Governor
+of Colorado, he related an incident of a boy seventeen
+years of age whose mother was a widow. He came to
+Denver and one day while on the street met a young
+man who was a stranger, with whom he had not been
+in company very long until the stranger friend suggested
+that they take a ride. A horse and carriage
+was near by and as no owner was present the stranger
+proceeded to untie the horse and order his young
+friend to get in. Scarcely realizing what he was doing
+he obeyed. And away they went, driving as rapidly
+as possible for several miles, when they stopped and
+the stranger bade his young friend good-by, leaving<span class="pagenum" id="Page_149">[Pg 149]</span>
+him in charge of the horse and carriage. He was then
+to some extent awakened to the situation, but thought
+he would return the carriage to the place where it was
+procured, or if possible turn it over to the owner. But
+before reaching the destination he was captured by
+the authorities and taken to jail and was soon bound
+over to answer to the charge of stealing a horse and
+carriage. The Governor stated that at that time he
+was judge of the court. The boy and his mother feeling
+so sure that he would be released on account of his
+innocency, as he had not the least intention of stealing,
+did not procure a lawyer, and after the witnesses
+had been examined and the prosecuting attorney had
+made his plea, the Governor stated there was nothing
+for him to do only sentence the boy for a year in the
+state prison, although he said at the same time he
+was sure the boy was innocent.</p>
+
+<p>I would not feel clear in closing this volume without
+making a further plea to the reader, and especially all
+Christian people, to put forth a special effort in supplying
+prisons of every kind with good religious literature,
+such as will appeal to the consciences and hearts
+of men and women and lead them to a better way.
+Aside from our penitentiaries there are many thousands
+of jails, work-houses, infirmaries, hospitals, and places
+of confinement, which have been so sadly neglected
+that we even wonder how we can all be held guiltless
+in the day of judgment if we do not put forth some
+effort in this line. Aside from the good books and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_150">[Pg 150]</span>
+tracts placed in their libraries a number of good religious
+papers should be sent to all these places weekly.
+If you can not visit the prison in person use your
+dimes or dollars to expend in supplying the prisoners
+with good literature.</p>
+
+<p>With the knowledge of the fact that our own boys,
+our dearest friends, or even ourselves, are liable to be
+falsely charged and sent to prison innocent, our sympathies
+should be awakened all the more to help those
+who are guilty, that we may therefore lend a helping
+hand to turn them from the ways of sin and wickedness
+into the ways of truth and righteousness.</p>
+
+
+<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop">
+
+<div class="chapter transnote">
+<h2 class="nobreak bold fs150" id="Transcribers_Notes">Transcriber’s Notes</h2>
+
+<ul>
+<li>pg 43 Changed: former passions crop out irresistably<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">to: former passions crop out irresistibly</span></li>
+
+<li>pg 93 Changed: was sentence to be hanged<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">to: was sentenced to be hanged</span></li>
+
+<li>pg 123 Changed: I am with you alway.<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">to: I am with you always.</span></li>
+
+<li>pg 123 Changed: cleanse us from all unrighteusness.<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">to: cleanse us from all unrighteousness.</span></li>
+
+<li>pg 131 Changed: Many thanks from all the prioners in jail.<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">to: Many thanks from all the prisoners in jail.</span></li>
+
+<li>pg 133 Changed: surely appreicate the consideration<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">to: surely appreciate the consideration</span></li>
+
+<li>pg 138 Changed: denouncing this makebelieve Cristianity<br>
+<span style="padding-left: 2em">to: denouncing this makebelieve Christianity</span></li>
+</ul>
+</div>
+
+
+<div style='text-align:center'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 75420 ***</div>
+</body>
+</html>
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+This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements,
+metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be
+in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES.
+
+Procedures for determining public domain status are described in
+the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org.
+
+No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in
+jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize
+this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright
+status under the laws that apply to them.
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+Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for
+eBook #75420 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/75420)