The Furnace of Affliction, 1805–1823
The Furnace of Affliction, 1805–1823
This chapter focuses on an anonymous dialogue published in Sword of Justice, Wielded by Mercy. It was between Newgate prison inspectors and an inmate about to be released. Reflecting on the sentence he served and punishments he endured, the prisoner quotes from the book of Proverbs: “I experienced the truth of the declaration that ‘judgments are prepared for scorners, and stripes for the backs of fools.’” In response to the inmate's reference to the whip, the inspectors explain that they found it “painful” to administer such severe sanctions. The convict assures them, however, that he understands their position, that stripes were “inflicted in mercy” and “designed for my good.” Acknowledging the inmate's contrition, the inspectors offer “forgiveness of [his] trespasses.” Before venturing out into the city, the ex-convict replies: “I accept pardon as a gift from heaven.”
Keywords: anonymous dialogue, Newgate prison inspectors, book of Proverbs, contrition, ex-convict, pardon
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