The keeper of the jail and the superintendent of the house of correction in Suffolk county shall, at the expense of the county, provide necessary fuel, bedding and clothing for all prisoners in their custody upon charge or conviction of crime against the commonwealth, and shall present to the auditor of Boston a full account of their charges so incurred or incurred for necessary furniture for said institutions, which, upon the allowance thereof by the auditor, shall be paid by the county.
Massachusetts Legal Code