"Thirty-seven years," he replied.
"How old were you when you got into trouble first?"
"Fourteen."
"What was your first sentence?"
"Seven years' transportation."
"How did you like Australia?"
"Well, the place is well enough, and a man can get a living easier abroad than he can at home. But I have been rather a queer customer in my time. I don't believe there's a man in this prison, or in any prison, who has gone through more hardships and punishments than I have done."
"Were you ever flogged?"
"Flogged! I should think I have. Just wait until night, when I am going to bed, and I'll let you see my back all in ridges with the cat."
"What effect had the flogging on your conduct?"