The Wasp — 1895 — page 593: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains several short humorous pieces and illustrations typical of satirical magazines. The content includes: **"Dear Friends"** - A sentimental anecdote about a poor youth seeking a five-shilling loan, likely satirizing maudlin sentimentality. **"A Sound Sleeper"** - A joke about a robbery where only the watchman slept through it, poking fun at negligent security. **"French Politeness"** - A brief quip about French etiquette regarding broken dinner engagements. **"Ye Ballade of Butler Ben"** - A narrative poem with illustrations depicting a seal (the animal) named Butler Ben, who drowned at Seal Rocks. The accompanying images show dramatic maritime scenes with boats and figures, appearing to be a mock-heroic treatment of the seal's demise. The overall tone is lighthearted and absurdist, mixing social commentary with whimsy.