Life, 1890-07-03 · page 3 of 16
Life — July 3, 1890 — page 3: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
# Analysis of Life Magazine Page (Volume XV, Number 392) This page contains two distinct pieces: **"July the Third"** (top): A poetic dialogue between Adolphus and Dorinda about Declaration Day, with romantic/patriotic overtones typical of Life's literary humor. **"Blue and Red"** (bottom): A four-panel comic strip about a firecracker prank. The joke centers on Little Johnnie, who places a cannon cracker in the house rather than outside because "they smell more in the house." When it explodes indoors, the adults are angry but can't joke about it with Grewsum (possibly the neighbor), suggesting the prank's consequences prevent the usual lighthearted banter. This is genteel, family-oriented humor about July Fourth celebrations common to the era. The overall theme reflects pre-Independence Day festivities and domestic comedy.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
JULY THE THIRD. ss DOLPHUS,” said Dorinda, L Leaning on his shoulder, “Dost know to-morrow is the time ** For lovers to grow bolder, “And to declare their passion deep in words or tuneful lay? “For ‘tis Declaration Day, Adolphus, Declaration Day.” ** Dorinda,” said Adolphus, (He well knew what she sought of Him and trembled), ** dearest, there is “One name you've not thought of. “The day is fit for fellows from their girls to break away, ** For ‘tis Independence Day, Dorinda, Independence Day!" L' ENVO!, And Dorinda to Adolphus now has nothing more to say. Edward Boltwood. BLUE AND RED. §© FHILADELPHIA is a great city for blood. Look at all her old families.” “So is Chicago. Look at all her big slaughter-houses !"" ROWN : Here's that old pistol that hasn't been charged for twenty years. Mrs. BRowN (who reads the papers): Take it right out in the yard, my dear, and fire it off. ROWN: Why don't you go outside to fire off your crackers ? LitrLeE JOHNNIE: ‘Cause they smell more in the house. te Sto i PEP | BUT FOR SOME REASON IT DOFSN'T GO. OFF, AND THEY THINK THEY NAVE A JOKE ON GREWSUM. Rut THEY HAVEN'T, comicbooks.com