The Wasp — 1891 — page 497: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains two satirical cartoons and theater/entertainment commentary typical of The Wasp's format. The top cartoon, captioned "Let's stay right here, my dear, where we will be perfectly safe from the fire!" depicts a couple in what appears to be a precarious situation—likely referencing San Francisco's ongoing fire danger or a specific theatrical production about fire hazards. The satire mocks false security or misplaced confidence. The bottom cartoon shows figures in chaotic motion, similarly captioned "They were perfectly safe—from the fire!" The irony emphasizes people believing themselves safe when they're actually in danger. The surrounding text reviews theatrical performances ("The Waifs of New York," "Gasparone," "Men and Women") and reports on San Francisco business matters—real estate auctions, hotel developments, and stock market activity. This mix of entertainment criticism and local news was standard for The Wasp.