Well they still are a tax-burden. It's just offsetting that burden, so your criteria is still satisfied :) > In 1883, I'm not saying the modern penal system i

Well they still are a tax-burden. It's just offsetting that burden, so your criteria is still satisfied :) > In 1883, I'm not saying the modern penal system isn't without need for reform, but using an example from the 18th Century isn't helping your argument here.