CONVICT LABOR KEWABD.
The bill [S. 236] to fix commutations of terms of sentences on account of good behavior of persons confided in the State's Prisons, was read the third time.
Mr. SMITH, of Tippecanoe, considered this one of the most humane bills that has been before the Legislature, and was heartily in favor of its passage.
Mr. WILSON, of Marion, agreed with the gentleman from Tippecanoe [Mr. Smith], but he questioned the legality of such a measure.
Mr. BOSTON stated that the bill was prepared by the explain of the Northern Prison, together with the Warden. He talked with quite a number of the convicts, and there was not one of them who did not desire the passage of the bill. The officers of the Prison believe that the bill will do snore to further good discipline than anything else that could be done.
Mr. GILMAN believed that the provisions of the bill are good-that it is in the interest of reformation. The discipline of Prisons as now as administered has a tendency to degrade the inmates instead of making them better. He thought the men who drafted the bill entitled to honor.
Mr. GIBSON thought if there is any one thing to be regretted in regard to our Prisons it is the severe discipline that is sometimes necessary to administer. He had converged with the Wardens of both Prisons on this subject, and they desire the passage of the bill.
The bill passed the House by yeas, 93; nays, 0.
The bill [S. 278] supplemental to an act concerning drainage-see page 187-approved March 9, 1875, was read the third time and passed the House by yeas, 68; nays, 11.
The bill [S. 293] to authorize the payment of the claim of J. F. and H. S. Talbott, for paving done on North Meridian street fronting the Blind Asylum, was read the third time and passed the House by yeas, 80; nays, 2.
