The Wasp — 1876 — page 71: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This cartoon satirizes political busybodies interfering in others' affairs. The two illustrated figures appear to be well-dressed men engaged in gossip or meddling—one wearing a hat and coat, both gesturing in animated conversation. The accompanying dialogue (labeled "Crispy and Pry") depicts two characters debating whether to involve themselves in a scandal involving "Mr. Boruck" and "Gorham." The speakers mock those who cannot resist spreading rumors or inserting themselves into private matters, particularly regarding financial or personal misconduct. The satire targets the hypocrisy of self-righteous citizens who claim moral authority while engaged in idle gossip. This reflects 19th-century social criticism of Victorian propriety masking genuine meddling and scandal-mongering among the privileged classes.