A Thoroughly Bad Lot

[Maple]

I've been here before with the same question. 42. Man of conviction works hard for Catholics inside. Although someone very kindly gave the clue that the answer was within the sentence, I just can't see it. I've looked and looked. Am I being totally dim?? Any further help with this would be much appreciated.
Thank you.

[weecalf]

anarchist has the letters rc(roman catholic ) insde long shot maybe

[tommythumb]

It is a six lettered word beginning with "f" unusual word but in chambers defination is: "convict condemned to hard labour"! Hope thhis helps.

[jenniferd]

Hidden word with an animal as last 3 letters.

[Maple]

Many thanks to all. Can now settle down and chill out. Haven't looked it up yet but will do so. You learn so much through this puzzle. It's great.