Chapter XVIII: Conclusion

From the foregoing arguments, grounded on facts, which I am satisfied are irrefutable, the following inferences may be deduced:

_First._—If the object of transportation to New South Wales be only the _punishment_ of the criminal, it is seldom effected in the proportion contemplated by the law; as many of those deserving the most rigorous treatment live there much more comfortably than they could have done at home, and realize large fortunes: while others, with not a tenth of their turpitude, are consigned to misery and ruin.

_Secondly._—In the case of Females, the _merited quantum_ of punishment is equally uncertain in its infliction, though always excessively severe, owing to their abandoned mode of life.

_Lastly._—But if the scope of transportation be, what it _ought to be_,—the _reformation_ of the offender; it has, with the greater number of males, been unsuccessful; and with regard to females, it has very rarely indeed been attained.