The Wasp — 1889 — page 84: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon depicts a ship labeled "San Francisco" being steered by a captain toward a mermaid (the "siren") in the water. Two passengers cling to the vessel in alarm as it heads toward danger. The cartoon appears to reference political manipulation or corruption—the siren represents a seductive but dangerous influence luring San Francisco's leadership astray. The captain, who appears to be a political figure, deliberately steers toward it despite obvious peril to the city. The caption mentions "Davy Jones' locker politically," suggesting the city faces political ruin or downfall. Without additional context about the specific historical moment, the exact political figures and events remain unclear, though the imagery suggests a critique of leadership steering San Francisco toward disaster through corrupt or foolish decisions.