( 57 )
Q-After the prisoners have been flogged have you visited them in the hospital? A-Yes, I have.
Q-How long have you known a prisoner laid up in the hospital after a flogging?
A--Well, I never took notice.
Dr. ATKINSON--Do you think the crank labour is severe at the Gaol?
WITNESS---12 lbs. pressure; if it is that when it is tested it will become easier.
Q-Do you think it is severe as a form of punishment?
A-It is severe.
Q-Do you think it is the most severe in the Gaol ?
A-I think it is the most severe in the Gaol.
Q-What are the revolutions ?
A-12,500.
Q-At a pressure of 12 lbs. ?
A-Yes.
Q-The handle is very smooth?
A-Yes.
Q-You cannot get a purchase on the handle ?
A-There is a bamboo on the iron shaft.
Q-Yes, but it is quite smooth?
A---Smooth.
Q-The great majority of those who are flogged refuse to work at the crank? A-Yes, to the best of my opinion.
Q-Do you know of any other form of punishment that would answer the same purpose as the crank?
A--I do not.
THE CHAIRMAN-The treadmill ?
WITNESS-I have never seen the treadmill.
Dr. ATKINSON-Did the prisoners object to working in gangs when that was in vogue? Some years ago prisoners used to work outside the Gaol.
WITNESS-Yes, I was in charge myself.
Q-Did they like that form of punishment more than any other?
A-I do not know; I know the majority of them used to be anxious to get out on the public works.
Q-They did not like it?
A--They used to like it.
Q-They preferred it?
A-They used to get extra congee-some cow's feet boiled up.
Q--Do you think punishment in a separate cell is a severe form of punishment for a Chinaman?
A--I do not think so.
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.