The Wasp — 1889 — page 57: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This cartoon depicts two men physically restraining a third figure labeled "BRIBERY" (visible on the ground). The caption reads: "Spring Valley does not employ EXACTLY this method; but it goes there just the same." **The Satire:** The cartoon critiques the Spring Valley organization or company for engaging in bribery, though perhaps through less obvious means than crude physical force. The visual metaphor suggests that while Spring Valley may not employ overt, violent coercion to distribute bribes, the corrupt practice occurs nonetheless—just concealed more subtly. **Context:** "The Wasp" was a San Francisco satirical magazine known for attacking local corruption. This appears to target a specific Bay Area entity's corrupt practices during the late 19th or early 20th century, though the precise Spring Valley reference would require historical clarification.