The Wasp — 1887 — page 459: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains two distinct pieces: **"The Wasp" (top half):** A military poem (sections XI-XIX) celebrating what appears to be a Civil War battle. The accompanying illustration shows two opposing military formations with flags, suggesting a battlefield encounter. The text references "Bay Billy's" name being called during troop formations and discusses casualties and victory—likely commemorating a specific engagement, though the exact battle isn't identified in visible text. **"Little Johnny's Christmas" (bottom half):** A lighthearted domestic tale about a boy's Christmas morning. The narrative humorously depicts a child awakening to discover presents and a holiday dinner, culminating in slapstick mishaps. This appears to be entertainment fiction rather than political satire. The page mixes patriotic military content with gentle family humor—typical of period magazines blending news, satire, and entertainment.