The Wasp, 1913 · page 152 of 364
The Wasp — 1913 — page 152: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This page depicts a formal duel being arranged on a beach. Captain Cross inspects two rapiers, declaring them "as like as two peas"—ensuring fair weapons. He then approaches James Burnham with formal military courtesy, presenting a sword and instructing him to take his position. The passage emphasizes the ritualistic, almost absurd formality of the proceeding: the captain salutes grimly, checks the sand's footing, and notes approvingly that "the light is not bad." Burnham's emotionless response—not even glancing at his weapon but tucking it under his arm—suggests detachment or resignation. **Without seeing the cartoon itself or knowing *The Wasp's* specific date and context**, I cannot identify who Burnham represents or what actual duel or political figure this satirizes. The ritual formality suggests the piece may mock either the outdated practice of dueling itself or a specific historical duel. More information about the publication date and *The Wasp's* editorial focus would be needed to interpret the satire's target.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
THE WASP 149 ing them one against the other, shaking them until the long blades flickered. He measured them, hold- ing them hilt to hilt. “As like as two peas,” he said. Captain Cross paced about on the sand, staring down at it and testing it with shuffling, stamping feet. The lieutenant followed him. At last the captain seemed satisfied and, after a word with Throgmorton, he went over to where James Burn- ham stood staring seaward with an emotionless face. He raised his hat in grim and formal salute, and Burnham replied in kind. He presented one of the rapiers, hilt to the front. “Your sword, sir,” he said. “I have assured my- self that it is a dependable weapon. If you will take your ground now, Mr. Burnham, we will get along with this little affair. The light is not bad and the footing is admirable.”’ James Burnham bowed again, then let his hat fall to the sand. He did not so much as glance at the sword in his hand, but tucked it»under his left arm and walked steadily to the spot selected by the ‘ Comichooks.com