In connection with the publication of this illustration, developed from a sketch by James E. Taylor and published in the January 19, 1867, issue of Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper, the publisher included this statement, which summarizes what the reader of the newspaper was looking at: “Our artist sends us the following account of his sketch: ‘It is customary, when a white or Black man commits some petty crime or misdemeanor, to fine him; and if unable to pay, whatever the sum may be, the equivalent is required in labor. The culprit is taken to the County Court-House and sold to the highest bidder. The purchaser then takes possession of the culprit, who is put to work, and serves his time. A fine of $100 is equivalent to three months’ labor.’”