The Wasp — 1891 — page 363: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page is primarily **advertising** with one small satirical cartoon labeled "The Deacon Explained." The cartoon depicts two military figures examining what appears to be bottles. The caption explains the joke: one character (identified as "The Deacon") claims he practices "physical culture" and maintains it by consuming "spirits"—a pun on alcoholic beverages. When challenged that those aren't bottles but "Indian clubs" (actual exercise equipment), the response suggests the Deacon uses spirits/alcohol as his fitness regimen. The satire targets hypocrisy: someone claiming moral or physical discipline while secretly indulging in alcohol. The "Deacon" title suggests a religious figure, making the contradiction between pious reputation and actual behavior the central joke.