Conrad Black's first year in prison 'surprisingly pleasant' friend tells Canadian paper

A friend of Conrad Black has told the Toronto Star that the former Telegraph-owner's first year in prison has been "surprisingly pleasant" as has managed to use his time in jail to teach, write and learn to play the piano.
But the friend, Brian Stewart, says he remains furious about what he considers the destruction of his media empire.
Black today completes the first year of his six-and-a-half year-sentence. Stewart said: "I don't think in any way one would have predicted so positive a year, in terms of creative activity and mental occupation."
He also said Black remains optimistic about the possibility of clearing his name if the U.S. Supreme Court decides to hear his appeal – a decision expected by March 13.
Black's biggest frustrations, he added, is what he considers the destruction of his former Hollinger International media group since charges were brought against him more than three years ago.
"He believes he was railroaded by a preposterous prosecutorial system in the United States and that he remains an innocent person and is absolutely determined to prove his innocence," Stewart said.