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Hapless felon

The law locks up the hapless felon

Who steals the goose from off the common,
But lets the greater felon loose
Who steals the common from the goose.
--Anonymous, England, 1821
Just felt like sharing. I remember this when I see everyday that thieves, pick-pockets, small-time burglars are locked up while the greater felons travel in considerable security surrounded by well-wishers to temples, mutts, resorts and abroad. Recognise anyone? Oh! there is a multitude of them around us! We watch through hapless eyes when thieves are warned of being shot-at-sight and rapists, murderers, terrorists, scamsters are let go with crocodile tears in their eyes and fake heart conditions.

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