The Wasp — 1881 — page 31: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is primarily a masthead and publishing information page rather than a satirical cartoon page. The prominent illustration shows a heavily-laden postal carrier—a figure representing the overburdened letter carriers of San Francisco. The accompanying article "The Letter Carrier" critiques the difficult working conditions of mail carriers navigating the city's steep hills and numerous routes. The satire targets Postmaster Gen. Cosey for inadequate staffing and resources, suggesting carriers are being worked excessively hard for minimal pay—earning "a little over fifteen dollars per week." The page includes subscription rates, publishing location (602 California St., San Francisco), and various columns on other topics. The cartoon's point: these public servants deserve better conditions and compensation.