As you say there must be extremely unusual circumstances. I think it is likely
she is about to be executed for some dreadful violation of dress code, in which
case the front of the mac would be undone to ensure the bullets had sufficent
terminal velocity and indeed to avoid accidental deflection endangering anyone
present. Additionally, from the ceremonial point of view a comparison might
be made with the removal of epaulettes where demotion to the ranks is part of
the punishment. Even if Wendy were only so lowly as to merit being hanged the
disgrace content of the punishment would still be appropriate. I note that her
gallows escorts are impeccably kitted-out, as is only fitting for such a serious
occasion. Unfortunately the photo does not show the boots being worn: at a guess
the escorts will have black Wellingtons and poor Wendy will be barefoot by way
of further punishment.
Harry Lethal
Dear Harry
Thanks for addressing the problem of 891's belt, although I do find the possibilities you suggest a bit dark.
Are you thinking of rubber bullets when you think the mac might deflect them? A tremendous marketing idea here, whatever - many thanks indeed.
I like your idea of having your belt unbuckled as like having your epaulettes torn off - or I suppose having your laces removed (itself not a possibility if you are wearing Wellingtons). But then that might suggest a lightening of the mood? Wendy might be being punished that way for some little thing, without having to be be hung (I mean like spitting out her spinach or not saying 'Sir'/'Ma'm').
L
I am pleased to report that as a direct result of my recent commentary on this very website, Wendy's defence counsel has contacted me, and has retained my services as Case Mitigation Consultant.
It transpires that my gloomy speculation about Wendy's plight was only partially correct: the photograph was taken at the time of her arrest, immediately consequent to the offence. Normally such an offence would result in 'summary justice', but because of the New Year holiday this option was not avaialble. Happily, therefore, I can confirm the picture was not after all one of our heroine walking her 'last mile'.
I am pleased to have provided services on a pro-bono basis. The case was heard on 17 January 2006, and despite fierce representations by the Prosecution for a sentence of chastisement with rubber bullets, my eleventh-hour intervention secured a reduced sentence of three Custard Pies to the Face. Sentence was duly executed at dawn on 18th January, and I am able to report that the prisoner was permitted to wear her Wellingtons on the strict understanding that she must scruplulously clean both coat and boots afterwards, under stringent supervision. This was duly done, and the prisoner having been judged in full compliance has now been bound over to observe most strictly any and all dress code requirements in future, on pain of the more severe sentence being enacted.
As an expression of her gratitude, the prisoner has offered her hand in marriage to the writer upon her release, but this has been respectfully declined as the writer is already 'spoken-for' in a long-term bonded relationship.
It is hoped by all parties that Wendy will re-enter society fully rehabilitated. She will become eligible for parole in September 2073.
Harry L.
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