The Wasp — 1887 — page 34: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page depicts a satirical sequence titled "A Game," showing three scenes of men in formal dress engaging in what appears to be a card game or gambling scenario. The captions read "Skinner Fills," "Clarence tries to Bluff," "Third Party Takes the 'Pot'," and "Skinner and Clarence 'Pass Out.'" The satire appears to reference late 19th-century political maneuvering, likely involving candidates or political figures named Skinner and Clarence competing for advantage, with a third party unexpectedly benefiting from their conflict. The "pot" metaphor suggests political spoils or office. Without additional historical context, I cannot definitively identify the specific figures or event referenced. The humor relies on readers recognizing contemporary political personalities and their rivalries.