The Wasp — 1889 — page 347: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains three distinct sections rather than integrated cartoons: 1. **"A Statesman"** (left column): A satirical poem mocking a politician who constantly refuses responsibility with "Of course I don't; why should I!"—suggesting political cowardice or blame-shifting. 2. **"One in a Million"** (center): A narrative story about a con man working various schemes (counterfeit money, stolen goods) aboard a steamship, ultimately evading consequences through deception. 3. **"Ben Butler Badly Bothered"** (right): An anecdote about General Ben Butler at a Manchester fair in 1873, where he's repeatedly interrupted by farm interruptions while giving speeches—a humorous account of political embarrassment. The page exemplifies *The Wasp*'s satirical approach: mocking political figures and exposing dishonesty through humor and narrative rather than visual caricature.