For the Term of His Natural Life
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November 4th.--In one of the turnkey's rooms in the new gaol is to beseen an article of harness, which at first creates surprise to the mindof the beholder, who considers what animal of the brute creation existsof so diminutive a size as to admit of its use. On inquiry, it will befound to be a bridle, perfect in head-band, throat-lash, etc., for ahuman being. There is attached to this bridle a round piece of crosswood, of almost four inches in length, and one and a half in diameter.This again, is secured to a broad strap of leather to cross the mouth.In the wood there is a small hole, and, when used, the wood is insertedin the mouth, the small hole being the only breathing space. This beingsecured with the various straps and buckles, a more complete bridlecould not be well imagined.
I was in the gaol last evening at eight o'clock. I had been to see RufusDawes, and returning, paused for a moment to speak to Hailey. Gimblett,who robbed Mr. Vane of two hundred pounds, was present, he was atthat time a turnkey, holding a third-class pass, and in receipt oftwo shillings per diem. Everything was quite still. I could not helpremarking how quiet the gaol was, when Gimblett said, "There's someonespeaking. I know who that is." And forthwith took from its pegs one ofthe bridles just described, and a pair of handcuffs.
I followed him to one of the cells, which he opened, and therein wasa man lying on his straw mat, undressed, and to all appearance fastasleep. Gimblett ordered him to get up and dress himself. He did so,and came into the yard, where Gimblett inserted the iron-wood gag in hismouth. The sound produced by his breathing through it (which appearedto be done with great difficulty) resembled a low, indistinct whistle.Gimblett led him to the lamp-post in the yard, and I saw that the victimof his wanton tyranny was the poor blind wretch Mooney. Gimblett placedhim with his back against the lamp-post, and his arms being taken round,were secured by handcuffs round the post. I was told that the old manwas to remain in this condition for three hours. I went at once to theCommandant. He invited me into his drawing-room--an invitation whichI had the good sense to refuse--but refused to listen to any plea formercy. "The old impostor is always making his blindness an excuse fordisobedience," said he.--And this is her husband.
CHAPTER IX. THE LONGEST STRAW.