Judge, 1886-03-13 · page 1 of 16
Judge — March 13, 1886 — page 1: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This political cartoon references the Shakespearean character Falstaff, a blustering character known for making excuses. The central figure, labeled "Falstaff Cleveland," appears to be President Grover Cleveland. He's depicted caught in an awkward situation with other figures holding a document labeled "Reasons for Removal" or similar demands. The satire criticizes Cleveland for making excuses regarding political removals or appointments—likely referring to controversies over federal patronage decisions. The Shakespeare quote about "what trick, what device" suggests Cleveland is caught in contradiction or deception regarding his stated reasons for actions. The cartoon mocks Cleveland as a bloviating character unable to convincingly justify his political decisions, comparing his evasions to Falstaff's famous excuse-making.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
VOL. 9 NO. 230 MARCH 13 1886. PRICE 10 CENTS. ef OFFICE FRANKLIN SQUARE. NEW YORK. os Junge pus. FALstary CLEVELAND—“‘Give you reasons for removal on Prixce. Henry Epauxps—* What trick, what device, what compulsion ! If reasons were as plenty aa blackberries, would tarting-hole, canst thou now find out to hide thee from this give no mam a reason upon compulsion, I.” open and apparent shamo?” Judge's Shakespeare. | FALSTAFF IN A FIX. comicbooks.com