Life, 1911-10-19 · page 4 of 48
Life — October 19, 1911 — page 4: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This is primarily a **subscription solicitation page**, not political satire. The main illustration shows a rotund gentleman in a cloud, appearing to fall or tumble while saying "TAKE IT QUICK!" — he holds papers labeled as a "counterfeit presentment," likely referring to currency or financial documents. The joke appeals to readers by suggesting subscription is urgent and worthwhile. The "canny gentleman" reference indicates this imagery invokes a recognizable figure, though his specific identity is unclear from the image alone. The page emphasizes timing: next week offers a "general number" with an absorbing cover, followed by a Thanksgiving issue — creating urgency for subscriptions. Pricing is listed ($5.00 annually; $1 for three-month trial), making this essentially a humorous advertisement encouraging immediate subscription action.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
TAKE IT auicn | SOMETHING NEW After mature deliberation, we have decided upon taking an important step; for some time we have hesitated, fearing that possibly we might be misunderstood. Timidly, and with reluctant pen, we suggest that in case you are not already a sub- scriber to LIFE, you follow the example of the canny gentleman whose counterfeit pre- sentment graces the top of this page. We mention the matter now because this is really the proper time; aside from the other fifty-two weeks in the year, it is the only time. Next week’s issue will be a general number, with one of those absorbing covers. The week after will come Thanksgiving Number. Therefore, if you subscribe at once, you will find due cause to be thankful. You need not send as large a roll as the above gentleman. Five dollars for one year, or ene dollar for a three months’ trial. Coupon below. | Coming Numbers a Enclosed find One Dollar (Canadian Oct. 26 (next week), A General Number, cover by Phillips, $1.13, Foreign $1.26). Send Lire for entitled Pals.” three months to Nov. 2, Double Thanksgiving Number, with center page colored cartoon by Orson Lowell. Nov. 9, Wall Strect Number. Devoted to Capitalists, Com- bincs and Come-ons. Nov. 16, Chicago Number. In which Chicago is at last shown up in her true colors. x Ye Open onl} bscribers; no subscri Sulncription $5.00 Seoptoumncheten ziti Canadian $5.52 es oa Foreign $6.04 LIFE, 17 W. 31 Street, New York comicbooks.co