The Wasp — 1896 — page 131: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page is primarily **advertisements** for San Francisco businesses (bicycles, whiskey, dental services, etc.) rather than satirical political content. The only cartoon element is a small illustration near the top showing three figures on horseback with the caption "SILENCE THAT IS GOLDEN." The dialogue beneath suggests a social commentary about a woman (possibly named Varnock) who doesn't speak much, with a man noting she "don't appear to know anything" and another claiming "she is paying her big wages just to keep her from telling what she knows." This appears to be gentle satire about **hired discretion**—paying someone (likely a servant or employee) for their silence. The "silence is golden" reference suggests the value of keeping quiet about employer secrets or scandals. However, without additional historical context, the specific reference remains unclear.