The Warden's Message
After interviewing several hundred inmates over a period of six months I have reached the conclusion that you personal grievances are not nearly so important to you as is the belief that certain groups of men have been unfairly favored. Any favoritism or any laxity in applying the rules and enforcing discipline on the art of any of the officers, inevitably breeds discontent and leads to "inside Political rings" and petty rackets. It is my intention, as Warden, to see that no favoritism is permitted on the part of any employees of the Institution; just as it is my intention to break up any so-called political rings
Now that you are here however, our job is to keep you until you are legally released and until then to put you to work and keep you working on reasonable hours while you are here. along with this job we have another responsibility. We must feed and clothe you, keep you well and as contented as it is possible under the circumstances.
You shuld always bear in mind the fact that you are doing your own "time," that no one is doing it for you. You can make your imprisonment as easy and agreeable as the situation permits or you can make it hard and disagreeable for yourself and to others, both inmates and officials. Therefore, play the game, you will find as you go along that I will endeavor to play my part; that you will not have to do all the getting along. It is my desire to administer the affairs of the Institution with a minimum of disciplinary measures. If rules and regulations are violated, punishment will follow and I shall tryu to amake punishment fit the offense. In a rule of discipline rather then laxity, the individual inmate fares much better. Realizing that the rules will be enforced at all times, he will know just what to expect and can govern himself accordingly, with the result that eventually obedience will become second-nature, thereby eliminating the possibility of punishment. At this point, the imates feet will have been planted firmly upon the ladder of rehabiltation - his ultimate goal.
The worth while citizen is one who is amenable to discipline and who knows the value of obedience. He is in complete realization of the fact that he can attempt to influence others. To this end he develops self-discipline. Therefore, in this Institution, during his rehabilitatory period, the inmat who learns self-discipline is fitting himself to resume his place as a worth while member of society, when released.
Please bear n mind the fact that if you have a real grievance or problem I am always anxious and willing to help you with it.
