The Wasp — 1878 — page 95: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon depicts a wagon stuck in mud, pulled by a reluctant horse labeled "The Balky" (visible at bottom right). Two caricatured figures sit in the wagon—one labeled "FOR EXPORT" and another labeled "ACCOMMODATION SINCE THE FLOWERY KINGDOM" (referring to China). Uncle Sam, speaking from off-page, comments that Mr. Wasp will never extract the wagon from the mud. The satire appears to address American export difficulties or trade complications with China. The "balky" horse represents resistance or obstruction to commerce. The cartoon likely critiques either failed trade negotiations or practical obstacles preventing American goods from reaching the Chinese market during a period of commercial tension between the nations.