| Frederick the Great, the Prussian king from 1740 to 1786, was once touring a Berlin prison. The prisoners fell on their knees before him to proclaim their innocence, all having this excuse and that excuse as to why they should not be incarcerated — except for one man, who remained silent. Frederick called to him, “Why are you here?” “Armed robbery, Your Majesty,” was the reply. “And are you guilty?” “Yes indeed, Your Majesty, I deserve my punishment.” Frederick then summoned the jailer and ordered him, “Release this guilty wretch at once. I will not have him kept in this prison where he will corrupt all the fine innocent people who occupy it.” |