The Wasp — 1893 — page 417: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page is primarily **advertising**, featuring a directory of San Francisco businesses and manufacturers with their addresses and specialties (leather belting, machinery, furniture, breweries, safes, etc.). The satirical content is minimal. There are two numbered cartoons labeled "No. 1" and "No. 2" showing interactions between what appears to be a contractor named Casey and an engineer. The accompanying text mocks Casey's malapropisms and misunderstandings—he confuses technical terms, demonstrating working-class ignorance contrasted with educated professionals. Below is a brief humor section called "Lucidity and Simplicity" about a Frenchman and American sparmaker, plus a joke about "Tottie" kicking things. The page reflects *The Wasp*'s formula: mixing commercial advertising with class-based humor targeting working-class speech patterns and perceived stupidity.