Perhaps the Commissioners, who enjoy a reputation for piety, exclude Radical and heterodox journals lest they should impair the Christianity and Toryism of the gaol-birds.
Many letters reached me and were answered, so that my time was well occupied until twelve, when dinner was brought in from "over the way." Being well-nigh ravenous, I dispatched it with great celerity, washing it down with a little mild ale.

Prisoners awaiting trial are allowed (if they can pay for it) a pint of that beverage, or half a pint of wine.
After dinner I felt drowsy, and as there was no sofa or chair, and no back to the little three-legged stool, I was obliged to dispense with a nap.

I walked up and down my splendid hall instead, longing desperately for a mouthful of fresh air by way of dessert, or a few minutes' chat with my friends, who I dare say were in exactly the same predicament.
Tea, which came at five, brightened me up, and as Mr.Wheeler had by this time sent in all my books and papers, I settled down to three hours' hard work.

The worthy Governor, a tall sedate man, did not like the titles of some of my books, and inquired whether I really wanted them for my defence.

I replied that I did.