The Wasp — November 15, 1879 — page 13: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page is primarily text-based satire rather than a cartoon. The article attacks Senator Bayard of Delaware, returning from Europe, for accepting honors from Democratic Party and Judge Clark. The satire ridicules what it characterizes as Bayard's compromised acceptance of honors despite his questionable moral standing—calling him "human trash" worthy of society's "deserts" (punishments/consequences). The piece also critiques Denis Kearney, a labor agitator, sarcastically suggesting he represents the common man while actually pursuing self-interested political goals. The remainder consists of advertisements for local San Francisco businesses (breweries, bakeries, opticians, tobacco) and recruitment notices. The editorial tone is sharply critical of Democratic political figures and labor organizers.