218 PUBLIC PAPERS OF GOVERNOR ROOSEVELT
circumstances go to show that the prisoner was but little if at all to
blame for the quarrel and that he did everything he was permitted to
and could do to prevent the deplorable result of it. The judge and the
district attorney think he has been fully punished and they unite with
the trustees, officers and inmates of the Soldiers and Sailors’ Home in
asking for his release.
July 11, 1900. Frank Finch. Sentenced January 13, 1898; county,
Jefferson; crime, grand larceny, second degree; term, five years;
prison, Auburn.
Commuted to two years, five months and twenty-three days, actual
time.
Finch’s health is very poor and he will probably not live a great
while. He is released on the recommendation of the district attorney.
July 13, 1900. Palmer Case. Sentenced June 5, 1899; county,
Madison; crime, grand larceny, second degree; term, two years and
four months; prison, Auburn.
Commuted to one year, one month and eight days, actual time.
Granted on the recommendation of the judge and the district
attorney in consideration of Case’s previous good character and of his
having furnished valuable evidence for the People on the trial of his
confederate. The latter was convicted only of petit larceny and there
would, therefore, seem to be some doubt as to the grade of the crime.
July 27, 1900. Edward Wise. Sentenced March 31, 1899, to be
executed; county, New York; crime, murder, first degree; prison, Sing
Sing.
Commuted to imprisonment for life.