Life — December 16, 1920 — page 11: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Explanation for Modern Readers This page contains two distinct pieces. The main illustration, "Santa Claus 'Way Down East,'" is a satirical cartoon depicting a figure driving a sleigh labeled "U.S. Mail Delivery" pulled by a donkey. The image mocks the delivery of mail—particularly suggesting corrupt or problematic postal service in rural America. Below is a humorous letter from someone (signed Hashimura Togo) complaining to Hon. McCloskey about financial troubles while working for Mrs. J.W. Seavey. The writer sarcastically anticipates being arrested for debt and requests Hon. Incum explain his obligations. The second story, "When the Main Broke," begins a narrative about young Betty visiting Niagara Falls. The satire targets government inefficiency and financial hardship during this period.