Judge — October 21, 1893 — page 16: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical comic strip presents nine scenes depicting various social situations where someone offers an apology or excuse. The scenes appear to mock everyday rudeness and inconsiderate behavior across different contexts: someone interrupting outdoor activities, people on public transportation, someone disrupting a musical performance, interrupting a conversation, and other moments of social interference. The title "Excuse Me in Nine Chapters" suggests ironic commentary on how people use hollow apologies as justification for inconsiderate acts rather than actually changing their behavior. Each vignette likely illustrates how an "excuse me" serves as a perfunctory phrase that doesn't prevent thoughtless actions. The satire targets middle and upper-class social hypocrisy—how politeness phrases mask ongoing rudeness and disregard for others' space and comfort.