The Wasp — 1889 — page 261: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains four humorous anecdotes rather than political cartoons. The illustrations are small vignettes accompanying stories: 1. **"How He Gestured"**: Senator Spooner of Wisconsin makes exaggerated hand gestures while speaking, eventually striking his wife with a handkerchief. The satire mocks overly theatrical oratory common among politicians. 2. **"Where the Big Fight Was"**: A barber from Gettysburg discusses the Civil War battle, claiming personal involvement. The joke concerns local boasting and misremembered history. 3. **"Which Was Which"**: A drunk politician cannot remember his actions the previous night, illustrating political irresponsibility through alcohol. 4. **"Great Hopes Vanish"** and **"Just as Glad to See an Actor"**: Brief satirical dialogues about military rank confusion and social pretension. The page satirizes political pomposity, drunkenness, and social affectation rather than addressing specific contemporary events.