Judge — November 8, 1884 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# The Judge, November 9, 1884 This political cartoon depicts a broken water mill with debris scattered below, labeled with text including "BUREAU OF DEFAMATION." The caption reads: "The mill will never grind, with the water that is past." **What it means:** This appears to be commentary on a defunct or discredited government bureau—likely referencing a scandal or failed initiative from the 1884 election period. The mill metaphor suggests something that once functioned productively can no longer operate. The scattered debris and "Bureau of Defamation" label suggest institutional corruption or misuse of power for character assassination. The cartoon likely critiques either a political opponent's administration or a specific government agency's malfeasance, using the mill as metaphor for institutions that have lost their purpose or legitimacy.