The Wasp — 1896 — page 140: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon depicts a caricatured figure (likely a clergyman or public official, based on the cape) reacting with alarm to accusations of blackmail and misconduct. The speech bubbles reference "BLACKMAILER!!!," "BOOH!!!," and "WHELP!!," along with phrases like "IT IS FALSE!!!" and "CALL THE ROLL." The caption mentions "The Wasp's astronomical observer since the Rev. C. O. Brown began" and references "his discreet reticence and saintly resignation under distressing charges." This appears to be satire targeting Reverend C. O. Brown, seemingly addressing scandal or criminal allegations (blackmail is explicitly mentioned). The cartoon mocks his public denials and defensive posturing regarding these "distressing charges," using exaggerated facial expressions and theatrical gestures to ridicule his response.