Piety was looked upon as a species of humbug, although (so persistent is human nature) a really good, generous man would have been liked and respected.

"I could be pious for a pound a day," said one prisoner in my hearing, with reference to the chaplain's salary.

"Yes," said the man he spoke to, "so could I, or 'arf of it." One Sunday the lesson was the story of Peter's miraculous rescue from prison.

"Ah," said an old fellow to his pal, "that was a good yarn we heard this morning.

I'd like to see th' angel git 'im out o' Holloway." Parson Plaford was evangelical, but a thorough Churchman, and he had a strong preference for those of his own sect.