A JUDGE having sentenced a Malefactor1 to the penitentiary2 was

　　proceeding3 to point out to him the disadvantages of crime and the

　　profit of reformation.

　　"Your Honour," said the Malefactor, interrupting, "would you be

　　kind enough to alter my punishment to ten years in the penitentiary

　　and nothing else?"

　　"Why," said the Judge, surprised, "I have given you only three

　　years!"

　　"Yes, I know," assented4 the Malefactor - "three years' imprisonment5

　　and the preaching. If you please, I should like to commute6 the

　　preaching."