Page:Crainquebille, Putois, Riquet and other profitable tales, 1915.djvu/241

Rh the so-called criminal is in reality merely unfortunate."

He took us into his room and told a warder to bring him prisoner 503.

"I am going to show you something," he said, "which I entreat you to believe has not been arranged purposely for you; it will inspire you doubtless with some novel reflections on lawbreaking and its punishment. What you are about to see and hear I have seen and heard a hundred times in my life."

A prisoner accompanied by a wardress entered the room. She was a young peasant girl, rather pretty, sweet and simple looking.

"I have some good news for you," said the governor. "The President of the Republic, having been told of your good conduct, remits the remainder of your sentence. You will be liberated on Saturday."

She was listening with her mouth half open, her hands clasped below the waist. But she was not quick to grasp ideas.

"Next Saturday you will leave this place. You will be free."

This time she understood, her hands rose in a gesture of distress, her lips trembled.