The Wasp — 1914 — page 112: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page depicts a confrontation between two men: one named Stanton and another identified as Burnham of Burnham. The dialogue reveals that Burnham is challenging Stanton over a gambling incident—Burnham claims Stanton cheated him with "loaded dice" in a game at Swan Alley. Burnham's response is a veiled threat of a duel, using euphemistic language about "showing gardens" and having "discreet friends in attendance" while maintaining a polite facade. Stanton recognizes this as an invitation to fight and protests. The satire appears to mock the genteel pretense of upper-class conduct—Burnham delivers violent threats while speaking in refined, courteous language, exposing the hypocrisy of Victorian manners masking serious confrontation. Without additional context, the specific figures and date remain unclear.