5
penal diet in the Singapore Gaol. In reply thereto I beg to transmit an extract from the Prison Rules at Hongkong which explain themselves, and from which, Your Lordship will observe that no Prisoner is subjected to hard labor while undergoing penal diet.
These Rules have been in operation since 1872, and have been found to work well, and the general health of the Prisoners exceptionally good.
I may remark that the penal diet proved to be a most deterring punishment to riotous and drunken sailors, with which our Gaol was at one period crowded.
With this explanation I shall defer making any alterations till I receive further instructions from Your Lordship.
I have the honor to be,
My Lord,
Your Lordship's most obedient humble servant,
Governor