"Great disadvantages arise from dependence upon the uncertainty and fluctuations of the Sheriffs' funds; neither soap nor clothing being allowed without its aid, and the occasional help of charitable people."
Two extracts from the civic records prove how warmly the authorities received these suggestions, and in what esteem they held Mrs. Fry and her coadjutors.
Committee of Aldermen to consider all matters relating to the gaols of this city.
Present—The Right Hon the Lord Mayor, the Sheriffs, and several Aldermen.
The Committee met agreeably to the resolutions of the 29th ult. at the Keeper's House, Newgate, and proceeded from thence, attended by the Sheriffs, to take a view of the gaol of Newgate.
The Committee, on viewing that part of it appropriated to the female prisoners, were attended by Mrs. Elizabeth Fry and several other ladies, who explained to the Committee the steps they had adopted to induce the female prisoners to work and to behave themselves in a becoming and orderly manner, and several specimens of their work being inspected, the Committee were highly gratified
At another place is the following entry. After giving date of meeting, and names of committee present, the minute goes on to say:—
The Committee met at the Mansion House, and were attended by Mrs. Elizabeth Fry and two other ladies, who were heard in respect of their suggestions for the better government of the female prisoners in Newgate.
Resolved unanimously: "That the thanks of this Committee be given to Mrs. Fry and the other ladies who have so kindly exerted themselves with a view to bettering the condition of the women confined in the gaol in Newgate, and that they be requested to continue their exertions, which have hitherto been attended with good effect."
Mrs. Fry's journals contain very few particulars relating to her work at this precise time. It seemed
