Sir, executions are intended to draw spectators. If they do not draw spectators, they don't answer their purpose. The old method was most satisfactory to all parties; the public was gratified by a procession; the criminal was supported by it.
In retrospect, the hangings are only very partially described as justice done, and much more accurately described as power and class hierarchy enforced.
What we do have, however, is incarceration on a scale that, despite recent efforts at reform, boggles the mind and shivers the heart.
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