The Wasp — 1877 — page 29: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

The page's central cartoon depicts a wasp attacking a figure labeled with a striped shirt, illustrating the magazine's namesake—a publication that metaphorically "stings" public figures through satire. The main article warns the public about "Charles Pemberton," described as a swindler operating in San Francisco who collects money under false pretenses for *The Wasp*. The magazine explicitly distances itself from this fraudster, cautioning readers and advertisers against unauthorized collectors. The remaining content includes professional notices, advertisements, and brief satirical commentary on local San Francisco politics and society. The overall tone emphasizes consumer protection and the magazine's role as public watchdog against fraud and corruption in the city.