My criminals were tried for the faults which really make social life impossible.

They were tried before me for selfishness, or for an impossible vanity, or for scandalmongering, or for stinginess to guests or dependents.

Of course these courts had no sort of real coercive powers.

The fulfilment of their punishments rested entirely on the honour of the ladies and gentlemen involved, including the honour of the culprits.

But you would be amazed to know how completely our orders were always obeyed.