The Wasp — 1891 — page 247: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical page uses repeated scenarios to mock wealthy or privileged figures apologizing for various transgressions. Each panel shows a character expressing regret: - A man apologizes for signing a pledge (likely temperance-related) - Someone regrets being caught at something - A figure apologizes for raised taxes - A man regrets not affording theater tickets - Twins' caretaker apologizes for them - A man apologizes for not keeping a Saturday appointment - Multiple figures apologize "for these things" - Finally, someone is simply "sorry he's called" The cartoon satirizes insincere or hollow apologies from the wealthy and powerful, suggesting their regrets are trivial, self-serving, or rang hollow to common people. The repetition emphasizes the absurdity of their concerns relative to ordinary citizens' struggles.