ABSTRACT
Neild made a fortune as a London jeweller and retired in 1792. Early in life he had already turned to penal reform and philanthropic work – hence his attention in his State of the Prisons to the many charities established to assist debtors, convicts and those awaiting trial in prison. He visited prisons all over Britain and reported on their deficiencies, particularly in a series of 'Prison Remarks' published in the Gentleman's Magazine from 1803 to 1813. The Stewards, Gatesmen, and Wardsmen entrusted with these respective charges, have each a double allowance of bread. In a room, formerly the Tap, Anne Sell, a free Vintner, supplies the Criminal Prisoners with wine; and serves out the beer which is sent to the Prison from the Public Houses; for which she is allowed two-pence per gallon. Through the exertions of the attentive Keeper of Gaol, a very excellent arrangement took place in 1807, for the distribution of the Prison-Charities.
