The Wasp — 1878 — page 88: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is the cover of *The Wasp* from September 27, 1878. The cartoon depicts Captain Burns—apparently a recognizable public figure of the time—tormented by demonic or grotesque creatures in what appears to be a nightmare scene. The figures surrounding him are exaggerated and menacing, with one appearing to have a pointed hat. Without additional historical documentation, I cannot definitively identify Burns or specify which contemporary scandal or political controversy this references. However, the nightmarish imagery suggests the cartoon mocks Burns's alleged misdeeds or poor reputation, presenting his guilty conscience through supernatural torment. The satire format typical of *The Wasp* indicates this targeted local San Francisco politics or notable figures.