instrument, now used for flogging the rallow. It superseded "crull inst" (see p. 54)
"the Cat" a far more humane instrument.
In Acting Superintendent's opinion the increase in flogging is due to the cranks having got up to their proper presses: the prisoners had been accustomed to them in a slack time.
In Craig's report, it is stated that the Rattan is considered a more cruel method of punishment than the use of "the cat".
Mr. Marques testifies to the Gaol District being free from violence.
Craig thinks the Chinese like flogging, as they afterwards enjoy a rest in Hospital: this surprising statement is supported by Mr. Bell & Mr. Lethbridge.
This difficulty might be overcome by the substitution of the birch for the Rattan, equally painful, but less likely to cause injury.
Dr. Kill and Mr. Lethbridge both advocate fewer floggings; the limit should be from 12-24 instead of from 24-36.
They are equally convinced of the necessity of continuing flogging and Mr. Lethbridge distinctly remarks that without the power to flog, he cannot govern the Gaol.
Bk17. 44-91, Mk 17-95-, kk37.45.88-, þ-257-63, h 94.
The rattan is used for every flogging; this is a great mutilation; the danger of blood poisoning is increased.
Dr. Tyrell & Dr. Fell both testify to this. To send a man out of gaol with an open wound is risky; in an unwholesome locality he is very likely to contract poisoning: the man who recently died was probably poisoned in this way or in the Hospital, which was overcrowded.
M39-108, h.34.
Drill is deprecated; shot drill is advocated; quarry cutting is suggested.
The meaning of the Rules is discussed in the report of the Commission.
The chief decisions are: A 24-, 4.15-24, £16-46, kk 68-69-84.85′′.
The report practically absolves everyone from all blame.
If there has been too much flogging, the Rules are to blame, as being ambiguous.
In the case of the prisoner who died, flogging was not the cause of death.
The Superintendent should maintain his independent powers of flogging; the birch might be substituted for the rattan; if the rattan be maintained, the number of strokes should not exceed twenty.
The Superintendent should attend floggings.
The Hospital accommodation is grossly inadequate.
In face of the unanimous opinion of all on the spot, it would be unsafe to restrict the powers of the Superintendent to order floggings at the Gaol.
There is great force in the remarks on page 6 of the Commission's report as to the exceptional position of Hong Kong.
We are told that the character of the prisoners in the Hong Kong gaol is far worse than that of the average English prison.
We have testimony of the violence of the prisoners, many of whom are brigands and pirates.
(4) The Hospital is too small: the Chinese sleep on the floor.
This fact increases the danger of blood poisoning.
RED Warders do not understand medicines etc. Both doctors mention this.
5. The Warders have too long hours: the staff is as good as can be got for the money, but inefficient.
An European staff would be excellent.
I think the substitution of the birch for the rattan, that the number of strokes should be limited, that the hospital accommodation & staff of warders should be increased: that prisoners whose time has expired, but who have unhealed wounds should not leave the gaol till they are cured; that a fresh instrument should be used for every flogging; that the threat of cutting should be carried out.