The Wasp — 1914 — page 212: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page from *The Wasp* appears to be a narrative excerpt rather than a cartoon. It depicts a scene aboard a ship where a new quartermaster has been appointed, likely following an election or promotion. Welsh Owen, described as having a bandaged head and broken nose, explains to the new officer (Burnham) why he supported Burnham's election despite being drunk. Owen characterizes himself as "an ordinary shellback" of "whims" and limited education who admires gentlemen—even disreputable ones. The satire seems to mock working-class political deference and the influence of alcohol on judgment. Owen's self-deprecating speech—claiming drunkenness explains his support—suggests criticism of how lower-ranking sailors made voting decisions, possibly reflecting class tensions in maritime hierarchies of the period.