The Wasp — 1887 — page 68: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains satirical commentary and a cartoon labeled "THE LAST ACT" showing what appears to be a romantic scene at a train depot. The cartoon depicts a young couple in an intimate moment, with the woman saying "Indeed, I really—Mr.—" and the man responding "Got it right here in my pocket. Ring, love. Parish with—" The satire mocks sentimental romantic melodrama—specifically the rushed marriage proposal trope common in popular theater and literature of the era. The "last act" reference suggests this parodies theatrical conventions where hasty marriage proposals resolve plots. The surrounding text contains miscellaneous California-focused social commentary and gossip, including references to Hawaiian royalty and local scandals, typical of The Wasp's general satirical approach to regional news and social behavior.