The Wasp — 1879 — page 561: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains a satirical essay attacking the hypocrisy of religious leaders in San Francisco. The author criticizes clergymen (specifically naming Mayor Kalloch and Mr. Hemphill) for moral inconsistency—they preach virtue while engaging in scandals, described as "pulpit cats and dogs" fighting publicly. The piece argues such clergy shouldn't condemn secular entertainment (like theater productions) when they themselves lack moral authority. It's a pointed critique of 19th-century San Francisco's religious establishment, suggesting their public quarrels undermine their spiritual credibility and right to judge others' behavior. The accompanying sketch shows entangled cats/dogs, visually representing the clergy's undignified fighting.