The Wasp — 1879 — page 393: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page is primarily publication information and editorial content rather than a political cartoon. The masthead illustration shows allegorical figures (Justice and Labor, likely) flanking "The Illustrated Wasp" logo. The main article discusses a story about an old woman advising a young girl on financial investment and saving money for an orphan asylum. It's a satirical moral tale about arithmetic, compound interest, and charitable giving. The piece mocks both speculative get-rich-quick schemes and sentimental philanthropy. There's also a brief editorial note criticizing misuse of Public Treasury funds collected for the Pauper Library, suggesting embezzlement by trustees—social commentary on corruption and financial malfeasance in civic institutions.