The Wasp — 1914 — page 35: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page appears to be narrative fiction rather than a political cartoon. It depicts a shipboard incident involving James Burnham, a gentleman passenger, and crew members including the mate and Captain Hobkirk. The satire concerns class conflict: Burnham, described as "a man of breeding," physically assaults the mate for perceived rudeness. Hobkirk defends the mate, suggesting Burnham's gentlemanly status doesn't justify violence and that he deserves imprisonment for his behavior. The passage concludes by introducing Angus McLatchy, a Scottish character described in stereotypical terms—pious, austere, obsessed with ledgers and Bible—likely setting up further satirical commentary. The piece critiques upper-class pretension and violence masquerading as honor among Victorian society.