Life — April 30, 1914 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Page 769 of Life Magazine This page contains two distinct pieces of satire: **"A Counter Proposition"** presents a dialogue between a "Loyal Housewife" and a "Humble Dealer" about California oranges on a proposed "Orange Day." The satire mocks supply-and-demand economics: the dealer explains why oranges would be expensive (limited supply on that day), while the housewife insists on buying only California oranges regardless. The joke critiques both rigid consumer preferences and economic naiveté—the housewife wants to support California producers but doesn't grasp that mandatory single-day purchasing would create scarcity and inflation. **"Courts of Justice"** is an opening section defining courtrooms as places requiring patience, resources, and shrewd legal representation. The illustration (lower right) shows "Professor Cricket" addressing a French mademoiselle about singing through one's nose—likely a musical or accent-based joke.