Jasper County Democrat, Volume 6, Number 45, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 13 February 1904 — Convenient Fetters. [ARTICLE]

Convenient Fetters.

Leo Deutseb, a Russian political exile who was permitted to return .to his home, tells in his book, “Sixteen Years In Siberia,” tales not only of suffering, but of lenient treatment by his jailers. In Siberian prisons o£tcn the harshness of the discipline was considerably relaxed. On one occasion, to the vast amusement of the prison authorities, Deutseb appeared before the governor with his fetters tied up with a piece of string, and it appeared he had only assumed them for the moment. But the complaisant governor was afraid of a visit from high quarters. “Then if an inspection is made you will be wearing your fetters,” he asked, laughing. “Of course,” replied Deutseb. “Y'ou see, I’ve come to you in full dress,” pointing to his tied up chains. On another occasion Deutsch’s bag was stolen. It contained, among other articles of a convict’s attire, the indispensable fetters, and he had to apply for a new pair. “Take care you don't lose these!” said the officer as Deutseb packed them among his luggage.