The Wasp — 1893 — page 185: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page presents a romantic narrative titled "The Proposal" featuring illustrations of courtship. The text describes a meeting between the narrator, his friend Albert B——de J——, a Frenchman, and General Ivan Belemnitoff, a Russian general and founder of the Khanykraiform Club. The story centers on Albert's romantic pursuit of Paula, the General's daughter, culminating in a marriage proposal. The accompanying illustrations show a man in formal attire (likely Albert) and scenes of romantic interaction. The satire appears to mock international romantic entanglements and the formalities surrounding Victorian courtship, particularly involving European nobility. The comedic tone suggests gentle ridicule of overwrought romantic conventions rather than sharp political critique.