CHAPTER VIII.
The Brother Sentenced to Hard Labor.
The official continued: “As the man left to do my bidding I said to myself: ‘He has gone to bring in my brother for me to sentence to hard labor. What shall I do? I do not feel as if I could utter the words.’
“I was completely upset. I experienced a most peculiar feeling. I thought: ‘Here he comes. I must do my duty.’
“I said to the prisoner: ‘Come in, sir. And how do your feel this morning?’
“Now, the devil take the mon who is two-faced! I brought the prisoner here to be put to work. Instead of that, he is having a nice visit with him. Inquiring about his health!’ Pat was heard mumbling to himself.
“‘Well, sir, I am going to see if you can do the work I will give you to do. I am going to have you take care of the prisoners in seeing that they have water to drink. Now, I will give you instructions. You understand the rules of the prison, and I hope that you will abide by them. Do not speak to any of your fellow-prisoners. You will be passing back and forth around each working booth. They understand how to ask for water, if they wish any.’
“‘Pat, you may show him the way. And see that you do not burden him with a heavy load. Now you may go.’
“‘Well, come along here, pet. I will give you a quart bucket which is light to carry, and if I happen to be going your way, I will help you carry it.’