Does Frome make a strong defense for Falder in Justice by John Galsworthy?

Frome does mount a very strong defense for Falder in the play. His speech is often cited for its eloquence, and for its historically important espousing of empathetic legal treatment for a man whose guilt is not in question. It's important to note that the play was written in Britain in 1910, a time and place where very harsh judicial punishment was common. 

Galsworthy was an influential critic of the contemporary British justice system, specifically the conditions in prisons. He was one of the first intellectuals to posit that prison will turn someone who simply made a mistake into a hardened criminal. This view is vociferously expressed by Frome in his arguments for Falder. Unfortunately, the argument is unsuccessful and Falder is sent to prison.