The Wasp — 1879 — page 394: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains two distinct sections: a "POLICE" column with an accompanying illustration, and a "Sacramento" section discussing state legislature organization. The **Police illustration** shows a figure in what appears to be official dress, likely depicting a law enforcement or government official. The accompanying text discusses civil police organization, criticizing how municipal rule lacks proper regulation and how police forces function as mere "rabble of over-fed bummers." The **Sacramento section** humorously recounts a legislative session where Senator Brown describes absurd lobby activities—including a man with a drunken gait and confusion over "$400 and a trip to the green." The satire mocks legislative incompetence and corrupt lobbying practices affecting California's 1880 state government. Both sections critique governmental inefficiency and corruption through sardonic anecdotes typical of satirical journalism of this period.