The Wasp — 1914 — page 111: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains narrative text rather than a cartoon. It depicts a social encounter between two men: young Mr. Stanton and an older gentleman who serves him punch while offering hospitality. The satire centers on a moment of social embarrassment. Stanton initially addresses the man as "Mr. James Burnham, of Swan Alley," but the older man gently corrects him, saying it's "Burnham in Berkshire" — implying Stanton has confused or forgotten an acquaintance's origins and status. The tension builds when "blood thickened in the ensign's smooth cheeks," suggesting Stanton feels humiliated at being corrected so pointedly in front of a servant. The satire likely mocks either poor memory among the social classes or pretense about one's connections and acquaintances. Without seeing accompanying illustrations, the specific target remains unclear.