It is again the justification of stealing from the rich to give to the poor.

Even when they are intelligent enough to complete the circle, and to see that the money comes, not from the pockets of the companies' agents, but from the street-car fares of people like themselves, it almost seems as if they would rather pay two cents more each time they ride than to give up the consciousness that they have a big, warm-hearted friend at court who will stand by them in an emergency.

The sense of just dealing comes apparently much later than the desire for protection and indulgence.

On the whole, the gifts and favors are taken quite simply as an evidence of genuine loving-kindness.
The alderman is really elected because he is a good friend and neighbor.
He is corrupt, of course, but he is not elected because he is corrupt, but rather in spite of it.

His standard suits his constituents.