Military Technology, War, Politics, Controversy, Government
Notes the parliamentary debate over the 'comparative claims of the Enfield
and
WhitworthWhitworth, Sir Joseph, 1st Baronet
(1803–87)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>
Rifles' (2).
Discusses some of the medical problems caused by policemen's clothes,
notably the hat, which resists 'that expansion of the Policeman's cranium which
is a condition requisite to accompany the progressive development of an
intelligent officer', and 'high stiff collars', which cause 'congestion' and
'baking' of the brain.
Written from the perspective of
John E GrayGray, John Edward
(1800–75)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>,
zoological keeper at the
British
MuseumBritish Museum
CloseView the register entry >>, the narrator opens by surveying his surroundings, noting
the absence of people, and questioning the nature of the 'collection', notably
the 'rude cartoons' of huge gorillas. Resents the display of 'ill-stuffed'
skins, and the possibility of
Paul B Du
ChailluDu Chaillu, Paul Belloni
(1831–1903)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> winning 'fame as a discoverer', and the prospect of 'Gorilla
tales' appearing on
MURRAY'SMurray, John
(1808–92)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> page' and being read by
'thousands'. Attacks Du Chaillu's credibility by hoping that he will no longer
profit from a book containing engravings 'cribbed' from 'ST. HILAIRE Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire,
Étienne
(1772–1844)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>'
(a reference to
Du Chaillu 1861aDu Chaillu, Paul
Belloni 1861a. Explorations & Adventures in Equatorial
Africa: With Accounts of the Manners and Customs of the People, and of the
Chace of the Gorilla, Crocodile, Leopard, Elephant, Hippopotamus, and Other
Animals, London: John Murray
CloseView the register entry >>) or
enjoy burning his 'repast' with fellow 'London Lion-hunters'. Vows to 'deal a
sturdy stroke' against his 'credit' and banish his 'o'er-done Gorilla' and
'tale'. Dismissing the support of
Richard OwenOwen, Richard
(1804–92)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> and
Roderick I
MurchisonMurchison, Sir Roderick Impey, 1st Baronet
(1792–1871)
DSBODNB CloseView the register entry >> for Du Chaillu, maintains his low opinion of Du Chaillu's
'specimens', seeks to make Du Chaillu prove his claims about 'Ghouls that rob
the grave', and emphasizes his faults. Proceeds to his central objection to Du
Chaillu: noting the claim that gorillas 'beat their bust' and 'Thrust / Their
heads', admits that 'Gorilla's made / Too like a man complacence to inspire',
but emphasises the anatomical differences between the 'highest Ape' and the
'lowest Nigger'. Appeals to both British Museum gorilla 'specimens' and
observations of young gorillas kept in a cage in order to support the idea that
the creatures were largely 'docile'. Adds that simians kept in the
Zoological Society
GardensZoological Society of London —Gardens
CloseView the register entry >> have also proved as tame as domestic livestock. Goes on to
lament how Du Chaillu has represented such docile creatures to the 'reading
thousands' as 'wonders of an unknown land', and to emphasise the lives of the
'Poor brutes [...] pent in cages', creatures which have not strayed 'Across Du
Chaillu's equatorial life'. Gray observes that 'some kind zoologist' might
characterise him as having a tendency to 'Level' his 'angry horn' at 'aught
that came his way', as taking 'uncommon liberties of speech' in attacking
enemies, and, despite 'large' knowledge and a 'sincere' soul, having opaque
logic. The poem ends with the same imagined zoologist warning against deciding
who is right and wrong in a controversy involving Du Chaillu, Gray, Owen, and
Thomas H
HuxleyHuxley, Thomas Henry
(1825–95)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>.
Discusses the problems with the legal claim that 'A Dog might bite any
person once or twice without there being any remedy against the owner'.
Punch laments the fact that this means that people bitten by dogs may
'not have a leg to stand on in court, unless you could duly show that there was
a big dental incision in each of them'.
The initial letter of the first word of the article is formed from part of a
picture in which a woman is shown looking out of a window at the moon. Behind
her tiptoes a very large telescope with human legs and arms. The article notes
astronomers' 'astonishment' at the 'splendid new Comet' and presents Mr Punch's
evidence (which he offers as a bet to other astronomers) that the celestial
body is the same as the one observed at various times in the past, and his
prediction for its future appearance.
Expresses interest in two paintings on display at the
Royal
AcademyRoyal Academy of Arts
CloseView the register entry >> of a young woman called Elaine, observing that
'ELAINE, or OLEINE, is the liquid constituent
of adipose matter'. Insists that Elaine has a sister, Stearine, and explains
how to produce this 'crystalline compound of fat'. Desires a pictorial
representation of the latter, and in a postscript notes some of the other
'pretty' female names that 'might be culled from the flowery paths of
Chemistry'.
Reports on a recent 'Scientific meeting' in which
Paul B Du
ChailluDu Chaillu, Paul Belloni
(1831–1903)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> sought to end the 'discussion of the merits of his book
[Du Chaillu 1861aDu Chaillu, Paul
Belloni 1861a. Explorations & Adventures in Equatorial
Africa: With Accounts of the Manners and Customs of the People, and of the
Chace of the Gorilla, Crocodile, Leopard, Elephant, Hippopotamus, and Other
Animals, London: John Murray
CloseView the register entry >>]' by
'spitting in the face of the gentleman who questioned them'. Points out that
this behaviour may be tolerated among gorillas but is 'not yet sanctioned'
among Englishmen.
Medical Treatment, Chemistry, Language, Pharmaceuticals, Quackery,
Crime, Homeopathy, Hydropathy, Medical Practitioners, Education,
Class
The initial letter of the first word of the article forms part of an
illustration showing a balding medical/chemical practitioner holding open the
mouth of a patient, into which the practitioner is about to pour some
dubious-looking potion. He is watched by an audience of yokels. Discusses the
trial, 'in the Laboratory of the Court of Probate', of
David G JonesJones, David Griffith
(fl. 1854–86)
WBI CloseView the register entry >>, a
'vile body' who had become the legatee of a will under false pretences.
Punch describes the dubious medical background of the defendant, noting
that he had practised homeopathy and hydropathy for nine years, was the
proprietor of a medicine which was 'not named in the Pharmacopoeia', and, worst
of all, had fraudulently obtained his diploma at
Marischal College, AberdeenMarischal College, Aberdeen CloseView the register entry >> (by
getting an accomplice
Dr ReevesReeves, Dr
(fl. 1861)
PU1/41/3/1 CloseView the register entry >> to sit
his examination). Laments the fact that Jones was merely 'condemned in the
costs of the court' and that Reeves is still 'at large', and wishes the latter
could be punished for fraud. Concludes by warning that the medical diplomas of
quacks who advertise may be fraudulent.
Palaeontology, Astronomy, Observation, Instruments, Time,
Measurement
The illustration (on 34) shows several 'Antediluvians' standing on a
riverbank, and observing a comet (which has a head with a smiling face) with
telescopes. The caption explains that this is meant to show how the age of the
1861 comet is 'ascertained to a Nicety', since it shows antediluvians
recognising 'an Old Acquaintance of A. M. 1372'.
Ponders 'intelligence' from New York that 'the telegraphic wires between
that city and Troy' have been burnt. Noting the difficulty of burning matter,
suggests that the word should have been 'broken'.
Discusses some of the inventions exhibited at the annual meeting of the
Leeds Agricultural SocietyLeeds Agricultural Society
CloseView the register entry >>, which
have no apparent connection to agriculture. Attempts to justify why 'baths,
beer-engines, and boot-cleaning apparatus' were included, noting, for example,
that the 'farm beer-engine' will provide an invigorating drink for labourers
and deter them from frequenting the public house.
Punch, 41 (1861), 40–41.
The Guards' Monument, As It Is, and As It Should Be
Nationalism, War, Heroism, Disease, Government, Politics
Opens with an illustration representing a monument to the Crimean soldiers
designed by Bell (possibly
Jonathan A
BellBell, Jonathan Anderson
(1809–1865)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>). The text begins by blaming Britannia's apparent ingratitude
on the 'contractors she employs', and accordingly seeks to blame a committee
rather than Bell for the 'failure' of the design of the Guards' Memorial in
Waterloo Place. Attacks the inscription on the monument on the grounds that it
suggests that British soldiers died 'at the hands' of the Russians. Appealing
to the 'official returns' of the battles, points out that fever, dysentery, and
cholera, were the principal causes of death and, under the guidance of 'General
Mismanagement, and General Routine', caused havoc in the British military camp
at Scutari. Condemning the monument as a 'mistake', suggests that this
construction, on whose apex stands a statue of
Florence
NightingaleNightingale, Florence
(1820–1910)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, should be inscribed with the names of the diseases that
killed these British troops. (40)
Shows a doctor attempting to grab the nose of a patient, who is seen falling
over backwards. The caption reveals that the doctor has been trying to sound
his patient's chest in the 'Approved Fashion', without warning the patient
beforehand. The 'irascible patient' is determined to know whether it hurts him
or the doctor.
Human Species, Race, Human Development, Animal Behaviour
Discusses an advertisement from a 'young widow lady' who seeks to meet a
'gentleman' and is not fussy about 'colour'. Wonders how such a lady could
advertise for 'an elderly nigger' and suggests that she is, 'as the well-spoken
young lady said of the Gorilla, very plain'.
Upholding the need for well-educated servants, insists that domestic skills
such as needlework and cooking are more important to servants than 'the
knowledge of Geography' and 'the use of the Telescope'.
Invention, Public Health, Pollution, Race, Cultural Geography,
War
Noting that Mr Cooke's (possibly
William F
CookeCooke, Sir William Fothergill
(1806–79)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>) new 'system of ventilation', promises to exclude 'those
enemies to ventilation, the blacks', recommends the invention 'for universal
use in America' where it would ventilate the question of slavery and the
troubles between the northern and southern states. Suggests that those
'espousing the cause of "the blacks"' have also had trouble with 'ventilation',
since they have been lynched. Anticipates that Cooke's invention will also help
that 'large class of persons' who cannot talk about slavery without 'getting
black in their face'.
Assesses
Anthony
Panizzi'sPanizzi, Sir Anthony
(1797–1879)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> design of a 'Reading Pavillion' at the
British
MuseumBritish Museum
CloseView the register entry >>, a building which it ranks higher than the 'Splitting
Giraffe, or the Fossil Man, or the Stone Tortoise', but then criticises the
number of 'chattering Nuisances that infest our temple of study'.
Military Technology, War, Gender, Animal Behaviour
Defines a 'Club' to be 'a weapon of defence carried by male Gorillas to keep
away the white women'—probably a reference to
Paul B Du
Chaillu'sDu Chaillu, Paul Belloni
(1831–1903)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> controversial claims regarding the aggressive nature of
gorillas.
Military Technology, Steamships, Progress, Government, Politics, Time,
Measurement
Contrasts the large number of French iron-cased frigates in operation with
the fact that the only British iron vessel 'will not be at sea before October'.
Laments the slowness of the
AdmiraltyAdmiralty
CloseView the register entry >> in giving
and executing its orders. Suggests that the rate of progress might be increased
by fixing a maximum time for 'all their moves' using a gigantic sand-glass,
rather like in the game of chess.
The writer of this spoof letter asks Alderman Gutch for his opinion on news
that cricketers in Canterbury had played at temperatures 'above blood-heat' and
'on a full stomach', apparently oblivious to the dangers of apoplexy.
Explaining how much heat must be lost by cricketers during a game, ponders the
reasons why they are so obese.
Discusses the strange instructions which Punch has been given by 'an
eminent astronomer' for observing and recording the 'position and appearance'
of meteors. The instructions require the observer to clasp a tree at arm's
length, swing his body until the bole of the tree crosses the meteor's path,
and inscribe a chalk mark on the tree's 'face' in order to measure the position
of the meteor. Notes the ill effects of this procedure on the body and mind,
and goes on to consider the astronomer's protocols for recording the
appearance, time of flight, and other details about the comet. Ironically deems
such protocols 'vastly clear and lucid', and questions why they do not explain
what observers should do if meteors 'fall behind them' or to whom they should
send their inscribed trees. Anticipates the pleasure that this will give to
those 'blest with scientific minds', but warns of the dangers of confusing
meteors with policemen's bull's-eyes.
Describing his experiences during a trip on the lines of the
Eastern Counties Railway
CompanyEastern Counties Railway Company
CloseView the register entry >>, criticises members of the volunteer force for 'firing
rifles on a railroad', adding that 'it is too bad that the Volunteers should
sink in public estimation, because a few Gorillas please to act after the
manner of street-boys on Guy Faux day'. (79). This refers to
Paul B Du
Chaillu'sDu Chaillu, Paul Belloni
(1831–1903)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> controversial claims regarding the aggressive nature of
gorillas.
Discusses a paper on 'Dipsomania' or the 'passion for intoxicating drink'
read by
Thomas L
MackesyMackesy, Thomas Lewis
(1790–1869)
WBI CloseView the register entry >> to a Dublin meeting of the
National
Association for the Promotion of Social ScienceNational Association for the Promotion of Social Science
CloseView the register entry >> (the paper is
referred to in
Anon 1862cAnon. 1862c. 'Dipsomania or Uncontrollable Drunkenness',
Transactions of the National Association for the Promotion of Social
Science, Select Papers Notes of Papers, etc., 597–598
CloseView the register entry >>). Questions the
intelligence of those who use the term in this way, on the grounds that they
appear to have linked 'habitual thirst' with 'habitual drunkenness'. Concludes
by claiming that owing to their taste for drink, 'philosophers' have a more
profound acquaintance with the 'philosophy of drunkenness' than anybody
else.
Notes that owing to the 'Chain of evidence' being 'complete against
Hungerford Bridge', it is to be transported to Clifton, 'and there to be hung
in chains'.
Responds to news that
H KennedyKennedy, H
(fl. 1861)
PU1/41/9/3 CloseView the register entry >> read a paper on
'The Influence of the Food on the Intellect' at the meeting of the
National
Association for the Promotion of Social ScienceNational Association for the Promotion of Social Science
CloseView the register entry >> (the paper is
referred to in
Anon 1862dAnon. 1862d. 'Influence of the Food on the Intellect',
Transactions of the National Association for the Promotion of Social
Science, Select Papers Notes of Papers, etc., 592–593
CloseView the register entry >>). Argues that the
influence of food on the intellect depends on what is being swallowed, but
points out that Kennedy was referring to vegetable and animal substances rather
than intellectual subjects. Goes on to explore the relations between diet and
mind, as suggested by various common phrases: for example, suggests that the
phosphorous in the brain 'may be concerned in the evolution of luminous ideas',
and notes the tendency of highly intelligent people to be obese or epicurean.
Suggests that 'a mental restaurant' might be established near a college 'in
order that the students might cultivate particular branches of knowledge on the
dishes suitable to each', and imagines that the meals served by such an
institution would include 'Mathematical stew' and 'Chemical fondu'.
Describes his trip to a place which he christens 'Sandbath', a location
which his physician has recommended visiting after a noisy and busy London
season including such attractions as 'evenings with Gorillas'.
Arguing that the only plausible part of the word 'Dipsomania' is 'mania',
laments the case of a 'maniac of the tipsy class' who killed himself by jumping
out of window. Provides an extract of a report which recounts that relatives of
the deceased could not restrain him by sending him to a lunatic asylum because
they did not possess a medical certificate. Urges that 'Humanity must admit
that the suicide of a sot' should be prevented and expects that it will take a
statesman being struck by a falling drunkard to make an 'Act for the safe
Custody and Care of Persons afflicted with Delirium Tremens'.
Discusses a letter to 'one of our cheap contemporaries' by
Frederick
BridgesBridges, Frederick
(d. 1883)
Cooter 1989 CloseView the register entry >> on the subject of the 'phrenological and physiological
characteristics' of the tightrope walker
Charles
BlondinBlondin, Charles (Jean François Gravelet)
(1824–97)
CBD CloseView the register entry >>, whom he visited. Surprised by Bridges's claim that Blondin
has no tendency towards 'stuck-up self-importance', and notes that, according
to Bridges's phrenological high opinion of Blondin's intellectual faculties,
his organisation 'would do pretty well for a
SIR ISSAC
NEWTONNewton, Sir Isaac
(1642–1727)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>' as well as Blondin. Considers the appropriateness
of Blondin's mental organs for his profession: for example, supposes that his
large organs of cautiousness and reflectiveness would have to be balanced by
'the force of "combativeness" and the conscious ability of "constructiveness",
"size", and "weight"' to stop him from 'tumbling off his perch'. Draws
attention to the phrenological differences between Blondin and his rival
LéotardLéotard
(1838–70)
WBI CloseView the register entry >> and
endorses Bridges's observation of the similarity between Blondin and the
squirrel. Noting that both squirrels and monkeys are acrobats, observes that
'Anti-Phrenologists' might respond that 'neither the squirrel nor the monkey
are endowed with the cerebral development of M. BLONDIN', but
expects Bridges to reply by arguing that as 'it takes a wise man to make a
fool, so also it asks a philosopher to emulate a jackanapes'. Notes that
Bridges's evidence for Blondin's 'well-balanced' brain 'will be accepted
without cavil'.
Archaeology, Ancient Authorities, Medical Practitioners, Quackery,
Charlatanry, Commerce
Discusses a
BuilderBuilder
(1842–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> report of
some 'relics of the ancient Romans who inhabited Uriconnium', amongst which is
a stamp that advertised (in Latin) a cure for eye complaints. Emphasises the
similarity between 'ancient and modern quackery', not least the fact that the
Roman quack dubbed himself 'physician', much like the way the notorious
David G JonesJones, David Griffith
(fl. 1854–86)
WBI CloseView the register entry >>
called himself 'doctor', without having any medical qualification (see
Anon, 'Representative Rascals', Punch, 41 (1861), 25). Concludes by observing that 'As of
old, so now, Quack is Quack and Rogue is Rogue'.
Discusses papers on 'Geometrical Nets in Space' and on geometric nets spun
by spiders delivered at the recent
British
Association for the Advancement of ScienceBritish Association for the Advancement of Science
CloseView the register entry >> meeting (probably
referring to
Hamilton 1862Hamilton, William
Rowan 1862. 'On Geometric Rests in Space', Report of the
Thirty-First Meeting of the British Association for the Advancement of Science
held at Manchester in September 1861, Notes and Abstracts of Miscellaneous
Communications to the Sections, 4
CloseView the register entry >> and
West 1862West, Tuffen 1862.
'On Some Points of Interest in the Structure and Habits of Spiders', Report
of the Thirty-First Meeting of the British Association for the Advancement of
Science held at Manchester in September 1861, Notes and Abstracts of
Miscellaneous Communications to the Sections, 162–64
CloseView the register entry >>). Questions whether
spiders are responsible for the 'geometrical nets which exist in absolute
space'.
Discusses the claim of a 'cheap advertising Dentist' who offers to 'stop
teeth at a shilling a-piece', a remedy which Punch considers '"too
filling" at the price'.
Religion, Religious Authority, Palaeontology, Controversy, Geology,
Evolution, Extra-Terrestrial Life
Discusses a passage in
Freshfield 1861[Freshfield,
Mrs. Henry] 1861. Alpine Byways; or, Light Leaves gathered in
1859 and 1860 by a Lady, London: Longman, Green , Longmans &
Roberts
CloseView the register entry >> in
which the author recounts a meeting with
Richard OwenOwen, Richard
(1804–92)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>, who
observed that some of the 'bones of the 11,000 Virgins' in Cologne's
Church of St Ursula, CologneChurch of Saint Ursula, Cologne CloseView the register entry >>
were the remains of dogs, cats, and other domestic creatures. Attempts to
explain this by referring to a pseudonymous review of
Temple 1860[Temple, Frederick
et al.] 1860. Essays and Reviews, London: J. W. Parker
CloseView the register entry >> in the
TabletTablet
(1840–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>, in which
the author accounts for the fossils of extinct animals by suggesting that they
were 'transported hither from some other planet [...] by the devil'. The
reviewer noted that geologists who infer from these fossils 'a higher antiquity
than what the Church allows' are consequently victims of a 'scientific
imposture'. Argues that such a 'common sense' theory can explain Owen's
observations on the grounds that the devil placed the remains of domestic
animals in the Cologne church as 'bait to catch a philosopher', and also asked
somebody to remove the 'genuine Virgins' bones'. Anticipates that St Ursula's
tomb will contain the remains of a 'she-bear' and supposes that the statue of
the 'Three Magi' may have been replaced 'with the crania of quadrupeds'.
Zoology, Animal Behaviour, Hunting, Collecting, Human Species,
Evolution, Time, Race, Cultural Geography
The initial letter of the text ('S') forms part of an illustration in which
a giraffe has curled its head under its body and is confronting an African
warrior. The text discusses
Richard Owen'sOwen, Richard
(1804–92)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>
lecture at the meeting of the
British
Association for the Advancement of ScienceBritish Association for the Advancement of Science
CloseView the register entry >> on the simians
introduced into Britain by
Paul B Du
ChailluDu Chaillu, Paul Belloni
(1831–1903)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> (a version of which was published as
Owen 1862Owen, Richard
1862. 'On Some Objects of Natural History from the Collection of M.
Du Chaillu', Report of the
Thirty-First Meeting of the British Association for the Advancement of Science;
Held at Manchester in September 1861, Notes and Abstracts of Miscellaneous
Communications to the Sections, 155–156
CloseView the register entry >>). Considers Owen's
observation of the grey hairs on ageing chimpanzees to be both 'a comfort to
man' and 'another proof' of 'how closely the two races [humans and chimpanzees]
are allied'. The narrator relates first-hand observations of ageing monkeys,
which are 'very unpleasant-looking' and have a tendency to 'idle chatter'.
Notes that monkeys, unlike white humans, 'acquire a leaden black hue by age',
and suggests that were white people so affected, they might suffer enslavement
in America. Observes that some people grow blacker internally as they age.
Contemplates the 'comical' scene of a monkey looking at himself in a mirror and
how its sense of its ageing would increase the volume of cosmetics it used.
Concerns a meeting to discuss the 'present unexpected failure of News Crops'
at which Mr Slash agrees that the news was so disappointing that 'he had that
morning given out a report of an address by
MR.
SPURGEONSpurgeon, Charles Haddon
(1834–92)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> about the Gorilla'.
Discusses a letter to a contemporary periodical, written by an 'M.D.',
explaining how the fashionable mauve used in colouring crinoline dresses fades
in artificial light. The letter also warns of the dangers of the cloth
'tarlatane', much used in women's dresses, which is dyed with 'Scheele's Green'
and contains large quantities of arsenic. The arsenic is 'given off in
poisonous dust' when dresses made from the material are folded, and leads to
severe medical conditions. Urges that such garments should be labelled to
indicate their poisonous nature. Goes on to note the warnings of M.D. about
women's headdresses that also contain large quantities of arsenic. Lamenting
the difficulty of preaching against fashions, urges the 'male sex' to keep away
from girls wearing a 'verdant dress or wreath', a strategy it is hoped will
force women to change their fashion.
Photography, Cultural Geography, Nationalism, Language
Reports a recent census showing the large number of people who 'get their
living from Photography' and the case of a Francophobic 'old fogey' who insists
that the French 'were the cleverest chaps in the world for making
faces'.
Responds to a correspondent, 'G.U.', in
The TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>, who
accuses the English of dressing badly and behaving uncivilly. Notes that the
correspondent implies that professional people, such as 'our barristers and
doctors', deport themselves 'generally less like educated gentlemen than
uncivilised Gorillas'. The latter observation refers to
Paul B Du
Chaillu'sDu Chaillu, Paul Belloni
(1831–1903)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> controversial claims regarding the aggressive nature of
gorillas.
Lamenting the fact that 'armies must be in considerable part composed of men
of moral worth and intelligence' and that such men should be destroyed by
'beasts', argues that military service 'ought to be penal servitude'. Points
out that 'There are, no doubt, numerous unconvicted British scoundrels who
would be glad to fight for pay and plunder, and the gratification of their
innate ferocity'—a pointed remark in the context of the contemporary
debate over the behaviour of gorillas. Proceeds to discuss the possibility of
building the British
ArmyArmy
CloseView the register entry >> using those men who are
'now murdering the Americans and one another'.
Discusses news that Manchester calico-dyers and printers have begun using
apple juice in their manufacture of 'fast colours and printed cottons', noting
that 'This is not the first time in history' that 'a question of momentous
gravity' has 'turned' upon the 'fall' of the apple—a reference to
Isaac Newton'sNewton, Sir Isaac
(1642–1727)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>
discovery of gravity.
Noting the claim of a writer in the
Cornhill
MagazineCornhill Magazine
(1860–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> that 'the Negro [...] invents nothing, originates
nothing, improves nothing', insists that the same can be said of the House of
Bourbon.
Discusses a lecture on 'that popular monster the gorilla' given by
Charles H
SpurgeonSpurgeon, Charles Haddon
(1834–92)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> at the
'Newington Monster-Tabernacle'Metropolitan Tabernacle
CloseView the register entry >>. Notes
Spurgeon's claim that 'the worst Gorillas were bachelor Gorillas' (a reference
to
Paul B Du
Chaillu'sDu Chaillu, Paul Belloni
(1831–1903)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> controversial claims regarding the aggressive nature of
gorillas) and that such bachelors would benefit from the 'softening influence
of female society', and by 'taking under his sheltering wing one who could give
him more than he could give her'. (150) Reflects on some of the reasons why the
latter remarks met with laughter.
Medical Treatment, Narcotics, Language, Education, Class
With reference to cases in which patients have been given incorrect and
often poisonous medicines, notes the act of
ParliamentHouses of Parliament
CloseView the register entry >> that requires all poisons to
be labelled as such. Emphasises the confusion caused by surgeons and chemists
labelling the same substances 'For External application only', a practice
confusing to the illiterate domestic servants who might administer medicines.
Suggests that this long-winded medical phrase be replaced with something more
intelligible such as 'NOT TO BE TOOK INSIDE'.
Reports how an undergraduate explained to his coach that he was reading a
'Guide to the Turf' in order to gain knowledge of ethnology, 'or the knowledge
of the Races'.
Promotes these lozenges as a means of enabling clergymen to cure such vocal
problems as 'stammering and lingual hesitation', to achieve a 'level, smooth,
and glib pronunciation', and to make their voices heard 'where previously their
preaching was so utterly inaudible that it could do little good'. Adds that Mr
Punch has testimonials supporting his product and that buyers are encouraged to
make further purchases.
Human Species, War, Race, Animal Behaviour, Cultural
Geography
Discusses a report of a duel to be held between some Serbian officers and
the Austrian consul who apparently showed disrespect to
Prince
Alexander KaradjordjevicKaradjordjevic, Alexander, Prince of
Serbia
(1806–1885)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> of Serbia. Considers the 'servility of
Servian [i.e. Serbian] officers in thus drawing lots to determine which of them
should sacrifice himself or another man to his master's affronted dignity' to
be 'on par with the self-devotion of the sable aborigines of Dahomey to their
dingy sovereign'.
Reflecting on claims that 'the Spirits' can 'take portraits', anticipates
other useful domestic activities that they might undertake, thus positing a
'Spirit-of-all-work' who could fulfil this duty without needing payment or
nourishment, and without causing such disturbances as chattering. Goes on to
discuss a letter published in the
Spiritual
MagazineSpiritual Magazine
(1860–77)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> (a reference to
Anon 1861b CloseView the register entry >>), which
presents evidence for a spirit having produced a portrait of the
correspondent's dead mother. Considers the impact of this phenomenon on
traditional methods of painting and photography. Concludes by wondering what
the 'Spirit of Humbug', spiritualism, 'will be thy next little caper'.
Animal Behaviour, Zoology, Natural History, Language, Cultural
Geography
Reports on how a 'Naturalist', with a limited knowledge of French and trying
to explain to a Frenchman 'the actions of the Gorilla', inadvertently gave the
impression that gorillas beat drums, a reference to
Paul B Du
Chaillu'sDu Chaillu, Paul Belloni
(1831–1903)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> controversial claims regarding the aggressive nature of
gorillas.
Punch, 41 (1861), 160–61.
Mr Punch on Some Popular Delusions Touching Travellers British and
Foreign
Insists that 'British travellers—male and female—include
specimens both of the Guy and the Gorilla' (a reference to
Paul B Du
Chaillu'sDu Chaillu, Paul Belloni
(1831–1903)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> controversial claims regarding the aggressive nature of
gorillas) and accordingly protests against attacks on his compatriots' uncivil
behaviour towards foreigners (160).
Discusses the implications of 'Patent Gravity Selected Potatoes', an
advertisement for which he recently observed. Taking 'gravity' to connote
austerity, suggests that other vegetables may be selected for their states of
mind. Equally puzzled by the possibility of patenting potatoes.
Presents examples of miscellaneous information from a periodical, which
include a report of the noises made by a bear in the
Zoological Society
GardensZoological Society of London —Gardens
CloseView the register entry >>, an extract from a discussion of the obedience of 'animals
of a bucolic character' to sheep-dogs, and an item concerning the favourable
report from the 'Asylum for Idiots'.
Spiritualism, Publishing, Religious Authority, Religion
Discusses news that the Bishop of Barcelona,
Antonio
Palau y TermensPalau y Termens, Antonio
(1806–62)
WBI CloseView the register entry >>, has consigned 'three hundred volumes' of
publications on 'spiritual manifestations' to the flames. Adds that this act
has rendered popery unpopular in Spain and inadvertently promoted spiritualism
in that country. Suggests that the 'reverend prelate' should have undertaken
the task more discreetly, and argues that in former centuries he would have
burnt the authors of the works as 'necromancers and sorcerers'.
Phrenology, Crime, Psychology, Anatomy, Controversy, Charlatanry,
Religious Authority
Discusses a report in
The TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> that
a prison surgeon refused to make a plaster cast of a dead criminal on the
grounds that it was 'unnecessary for the purpose of science'. Observing that
'There are a few people who do not think that there is something in
phrenology', upholds the 'scientific importance' of establishing a 'coincidence
between type of head and character', and argues that casts of heads of
criminals can solve the question of whether phrenology 'is all humbug or no'.
Denies the plausibility of the report, deeming the alleged actions of the
surgeon to be more appropriate to a 'shuffling bishop, desirous of stifling
theological investigation'.
Punch, 41 (1861), 170–71.
Mr Punch on Some Popular Delusions. Touching Travellers British and
Foreign
Contrasting his experiences of travelling on English and Continental
railways, admits that English railways suffer from reckless management and
dangerously fast trains, but adds that he would 'rather risk a smash on an
English line, than crawl in a sorrowful, or savage safety on a Belgian, German,
or French one; and this, not for the advantage of speed only, or mainly, but
because of the ineffable superiority of our English railway system in every
point that affects the traveller's comfort' (170). Goes on to describe some of
the other drawbacks of travelling on Continental trains.
Discussing the religious relics that Englishmen can observe during visits
abroad, imagines a speech made to 'sight-seers' by a 'fat priest' who shows his
audience a 'tooth of Saint Ticdouloureux, who fell a martyr (to neuralgia) A.D.
1466' and whose teeth were apparently extracted under torture. Continuing this
portrait of the priest, imagines that he points to the habitation of Saint
Earwiggus, whose century-long 'subsistence upon sea-weed and raw shrimps' has
'caused a great sensation to the savants of geology', and has prompted
some of its 'heretics' to deny that shrimps or seaweed could exist so high
above sea-level.
Discussing
Prince
Edward'sEdward VII, King of Great Britain and Ireland and
of the British Dominions Beyond the Seas, Emperor of India
(1841–1910)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> embarkation on a legal training, considers the winding and
predetermined 'royal road' to learning that he will follow, including the jump
'To the Isis from the Cam' (i.e. from the
University of CambridgeUniversity of Cambridge
CloseView the register entry >> to the
University of
OxfordUniversity of Oxford
CloseView the register entry >>), a change that is so dramatic that one should 'Ask him not
if mathematic, / Or if classic be his choice, / By this royal road erratic / He
must trudge, without a choice'.
Discusses the recently published annual returns of births and deaths (Anon 1861aAnon. 1861a. Twenty-Second Annual Report of the
Registrar-General of Births, Deaths and Marriages in England (England and
Wales), London: HMSO
CloseView the register entry >>), and concludes from the
report that 'there are as many accidents on one's journey through life as there
are unfortunately on a railway', with most people breaking down half way or
failing to arrive at their destination. Also draws attention to the evidence
that women outlive men, exclaiming that 'women beat the men at everything' and
are obstinate even about death, but noting that 'wife-beating' is an exception
to this. Admits, however, that it might be wrong 'in alluding to such
contemptible creatures [women], who, far from ranking equal to Man, degrade
themselves to a lower level even than that of the Brute'. Goes on to relate
that the two oldest people on the register are women from Wales, but suggests
that they may have lied about their ages.
Military Technology, Sanitation, Public Health, Environmentalism,
Morality
Suggests that when experiments are next performed on
ArmstrongArmstrong, Sir William George, Baron
Armstrong of Cragside
(1810–1900)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> guns, the weapons be directed at
Holywell Street in order to destroy 'that vile haunt of impurity and
infidelity'. Concludes that if the gun successfully removes 'that filthy
impediment to the free circulation of fresh air and pure thought', then the
author will defend the weapon against its detractors.
Reports on the photographic interests of the new Bishop of Gloucester,
William
ThomsonThomson, William
(1819–90)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, by quoting
Anthony A Cooper (7th
Earl of Shaftesbury)Cooper, Anthony Ashley, 7th Earl of Shaftesbury
(formerly styled 'Lord Ashley')
(1801–85)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> as asserting that he had appointed 'an
ecclesiastic of the decided school, and in fact, [...] all his views are
Positives'. The illustration shows a portly gentleman being photographed.
Mental Illness, Crime, Class, Language, Hospitals, Medical Treatment,
Morality
Discusses the 'novel complaint' of 'kleptomania', which is defined as 'a
strange and inexplicable desire to take what does not belong to you' and
appears to be applied to 'genteel' people, whereas 'thieving' is used to
describe 'a low, vulgar person'. Explains that the difference between these
terms is not only one of social class, but that a kleptomaniac 'cannot help
himself' and is no more to blame for what he does than sufferers of St Vitus's
dance. Adding that kleptomaniacs should be sent to hospital rather than prison,
laments the number of kleptomaniacs who were wrongly imprisoned, and suggests
renaming thieves' prisons 'hospitals for the reception of kleptomaniacs'. (189)
Concludes by stressing that 'allusions to thieving and stealing must,
henceforth, be adapted, so as to meet the exigencies of this new mental
infirmity' (190).
Mental Illness, Crime, Hospitals, Medical Treatment
Following
Anon, 'A New Complaint', Punch, 41 (1861), 189–90, shows a shady looking man—the
victim of kleptomania—on a street pavement. He is being led away by
'Doctors X1 and Z2', dressed as police constables, to the hospital,
where 'steps are now being taken for his recovery'.
Noting the popularity of the French 'teaspoon bonnet' in England, insists
that the 'French certainly do excel us in everything'. To support this argument
for the superiority of the French, sarcastically notes the dearth of eminent
English scientific practitioners, complaining, for example, that England has
'no famous astronomer, no chemical investigators, no anatomical and
physiological discoverer' to rank with 'certain Frenchmen of the same
description'. Similarly, attributes to the French, such scientific and
technological accomplishments as the demonstration of 'the circulation of the
blood' and the invention of the steam engine.
Suggests that since
Paul B Du
ChailluDu Chaillu, Paul Belloni
(1831–1903)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> has been struck with 'So many stones and pebbles' for
publishing his book (Du
Chaillu 1861aDu Chaillu, Paul
Belloni 1861a. Explorations & Adventures in Equatorial
Africa: With Accounts of the Manners and Customs of the People, and of the
Chace of the Gorilla, Crocodile, Leopard, Elephant, Hippopotamus, and Other
Animals, London: John Murray
CloseView the register entry >>), he should change his name to 'M. Du Caillou', the latter
being the French for a small stone.
Discusses remarks on vision made by the Bishop of Oxford,
Samuel
WilberforceWilberforce, Samuel
(1805–73)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, at a 'county blind-school' in York. Questions the
bishop's claim that most people can see 'the radiance and glory which mantled
around the features of the Holy Saints'. Supposes that Wilberforce must be 'a
seer of saints' and, supposing that the 'phosphorescence' of saints may be the
'Odic or Odylic Light' which only
Karl L
Reichenbach'sReichenbach, Karl (or Carl) Ludwig
()1788–1869
DSB CloseView the register entry >> 'sensitives' could perceive, adds that the bishop
might also be a 'sensitive' and can only see saints in the dark.
Medical Practitioners, Medical Treatment, Politics, Analogy,
Disease
Urges that those 'medical men' caring for the 'body politic' attend to
Ireland, whose condition has been worsened by the cessation of Irish emigration
to America (owing to the Civil War). Describes some of the symptoms likely to
be observed, including 'all manner of inflammations and irruptions', but is
more hopeful that 'agitations' will not ensue.
Museums, Natural History, Zoology, Collecting, Government
Noting the government's decision to remove 'all the beasts from the
British
MuseumBritish Museum
CloseView the register entry >>', claims this as good news for those disturbed by those who
chatter in the museum's reading room.
Consists of five sections which, by punning on words such as 'figure',
'draw', 'incline', 'elevation', and 'chord', turn geometrical proofs into
accounts of what will happen to various people (here named with a series of
letters as if they were geometrical figures) under certain conditions. For
example, in 'THEOREM V.—Solution of the Vexata
Quaestio in reference to Bodies moving in Space', states: 'Let
PF be the Plain Figure of Fine Lady [...], and
MB the circumference of a Modern Belle. Then from
AC, the Acute Angle of the eye of the Candid Critic, let
attention be drawn to LB, the Line of Beauty, and
LB will be found to reach considerably beyond
PF, the Plain Figure'.
Opens by praising
Richard OwenOwen, Richard
(1804–92)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>,
implicitly in reference to the government's decision to relocate the natural
history collections of the
British
MuseumBritish Museum
CloseView the register entry >>. The rest of the poem calls on the various species in the
collections to prepare for the move, drawing attention to the stifling
environment to which they have become accustomed. For example, it tells the
'Dusty, straddling, split giraffe, / You have stayed too long by half, / Go and
take some nice fresh air / With that grim Polar bear', and later turns to
'Fossil Man' whom it advises to 'pack, / Take your slab, Sir, on your back',
and 'All those myriad butterflies, / Pins and all, must please to rise'.
Concludes by observing how 'OWEN stands / Moulding
GLADSTONEGladstone, William Ewart
(1809–98)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> to his hands'
and tells the animals in the collections that 'you'll have a Palace new, /
Worthy OWEN, us, and you'.
Industry, Language, Metallurgy, Gender, Military Technology,
Steamships
Discusses an advertisement in the
Sheffield IndependentSheffield Independent
(1819–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> for a
'Cold CRINOLINE ROLLER' required to 'work six pairs of Rolls', giving as the
contact address an iron and steel works. The narrator interprets this statement
as indicating that petticoats are now made from steel. Playing on the ironic
contrast between the fragility of crinoline and the hardness of steel, suggests
that the machine to be operated by the hired 'ROLLER' is one whose 'tremendous
powers' can only be entrusted to competent workmen. Goes on to imagine the
noise and glow produced during the production of 'rolls of cold crinoline',
noting the creation of sparks under a
NasmythNasmyth, James
(1808–90)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>
steam-hammer. Suggests that both vessels and women are clad in iron by the same
'powerful machinery', and anticipates the appearance of 'steam-ewes' (by
association with 'steam rams'), and maidens capable of sustaining an attack
from an
ArmstrongArmstrong, Sir William George, Baron
Armstrong of Cragside
(1810–1900)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> gun.
Zoology, Human Species, Human Development, Race, Photography,
Representation
Shows a simian-looking middle-aged man sitting in his drawing room, whilst
looking at a booklet entitled 'Portrait of a Gorilla', the inside of which is
hidden. There are two young children in front of him who tease him with the
words 'Ain't it a jolly sell, MR. O'TOOLE? but don't
tell Ma when she comes down, 'cause she said I wasn't to show it
YOU on any account!'. The rest of the caption invites
the reader to refer to the 'widely-circulated "Portrait of the Gorilla", to be
obtained at the nearest Photographers'. The choice of name for the man, who is
meant to see himself mirrored in the gorilla photograph, reflects
Punch's habit of implying that the Irish resemble apes.
The poet offers his wife, Mrs J., a 'fireproof dress', explaining how
distressed he is by the possibility that she will be 'burnt alive' through the
ignition of 'all that attire'. He explains the combustible nature of the
muslin, but reassures her that she will be safe from fire by wearing a dress
called 'Premature Suttee'.
Zoology, Animal Behaviour, Natural History, Human Species, Nutrition,
Industry, Class
Opens by describing how 'Working Bees' prepare honey in the summer and thus,
'by their toil', accumulate food to survive the cold winter, so that when they
are 'Out of work' they are not 'out of victuals too'. Contrasts this to the
less 'happier' 'Working Men', who earn 'Little more than bread and cheese',
which they do not 'hoard', and whose 'produce [...] Goes for others to
provide'. Ends by noting that while bees can 'sustenance command', 'Men can
only help implore'. Calls on 'Masters' to follow the example of bees and 'Give
a share to Working Men'.
Discusses a 'report of Naval and Military Intelligence' describing the
lectures 'On the Physiology of Man' given to the policemen who patrol
Chatham
DockyardChatham Dockyard
CloseView the register entry >>. Reveals that the lecturer,
Mr
LichfieldLichfield, Mr
(fl. 1861)
PU1/41/21/5 CloseView the register entry >>, is merely 'an uncommonly intelligent' police officer who,
according to the report, showed himself to be 'thoroughly conversant with the
subject'. Believes that the physiological subjects taught by Lichfield will
give policemen 'abundant food for contemplation' and the ability to reflect on
the 'beautiful framework of bones' and physiological mechanisms that he uses to
catch criminals. Concludes by observing that the policeman has now 'begun to
apprehend the facts of science', and 'not only commands progress in the
thoroughfares, but exemplifies it in the walks of intellect'.
Comparative Philology, Animal Behaviour, Hunting, Politics, Religious
Authority
Dedicated 'to the Bench of Bishops, and the RIGHT HON. B.
DISRAELIDisraeli, Benjamin, 1st Earl of Beaconsfield
(1804–81)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, M.P.', this poem opens by recalling
Aesop'sAesop
(c. 6th century BC)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> story about a time when
'All beasts could talk, that now go dumbly stalking', and adding that this did
not just apply to 'the monkeys, owls, and asses merely, / Who still enjoy the
privilege of talking'. Goes on to explain man's dissatisfaction with walking on
his feet, and his quest for a suitable quadruped on which he could ride. After
dismissing the stag as too delicate and uncomfortable to ride on, and too swift
to catch, he identifies a colt as a more suitable animal for this purpose. The
colt proceeds to vilify the habits of the stag (including its tendency to
poison pasture grounds and poach meads) and agrees with the man, that they
should 'combine in his pursuit'. Later, having frightened off the stag, the man
disagrees with the horse's desire to 'catch the Deer', and after reminding the
horse that he could only disagree with him when he had 'a will', he digs his
spurs into the horse, and the horse is 'taken in'. In this story the horse
rider is likened to Disraeli, who sought to 'deal' a foe a 'stroke stupendous',
and the horse to 'old Mother Church' which found itself being ridden rather
than hunting a stag.
Animal Behaviour, Commerce, Class, Human Species, Human
Development
Agreeing with a
GlobeGlobe
(1803–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> article
describing the 'hardships which this new Bankruptcy Act [...] will inflict upon
swells and decent fellows', insists that 'every decent fellow is a member of
some club, the Gorillas that ain't may take care of themselves', and laments
that fact that such fellows suffer the 'monstrous injustice' of losing their
club membership due to bankruptcy. This article trades on
Paul B Du
Chaillu'sDu Chaillu, Paul Belloni
(1831–1903)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> controversial claims regarding the aggressive nature of
gorillas.
Describes some of the inventions to awarded prizes by the
Royal Society
of ArtsRoyal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce
CloseView the register entry >>. These include 'a detonating or noise-making envelope' for
drawing attention to somebody surreptitiously opening an envelope in search of
valuable items, and a 'self-acting door mat' for impeding the progress of
visitors.
Inveighs against a series of advertisements from astrologers, clairvoyants
and phrenologists published in the
New York
HeraldNew York Herald
(1887–1900+)
British Library Catalogue CloseView the register entry >>. Questions
John Bright'sBright, John
(1811–89)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> claim
that inhabitants of the United States are 'far more advanced in the
intellectual race than the benighted English' on the grounds that they
cultivate 'a science which in England we have long branded by the rude name of
Imposture' (216). Proceeds to ridicule the terms of business and alleged
prophetic and divining powers claimed in nine advertisements by astrologers,
clairvoyants, and phrenologists. In many cases it compares their trades to
those practiced by 'the lowest class of so-called dentists' (216). In other
cases, it burlesques the scientific pretensions of the advertisers. For
example, responding to the claim of a
Mrs MiltonMilton, Mrs
(fl. 1861)
PU1/41/22/4 CloseView the register entry >> to cure
rheumatism by clairvoyance, it considers this process 'worthy [of] young
America', but then wonders whether she 'also cuts corns Mesmerically, and hair
Astrologically, when Berenice's Hair is in Trine occult opposition and
projection with the "streaming locks so lovely pale" of the current Comet'.
(217)
Shows a 'Gent' in a photographic studio who tells the photographer that he
does not want his 'Cart' published but that he may sell it to 'any nice gal, or
lady of rank'.
Amusement, Narcotics, Medical Treatment, Homeopathy, Crime
Complains of the 'modern French abominations' of the stage—the
portrayal of death by poisoning in melodramas. Prefers one character to kill
another by more dramatic means than by slaying him 'by half inches with
homeopathic doses', which produces 'the most distressing facial effects'.
Prefers 'a bullet through the body, or a bludgeon-stroke behind the back' to
'poisoned puddings, and doctored doctor's stuff'. (222)
Medical Practitioners, Medical Treatment, Accidents, Expertise,
Methodology
Discusses a letter in
The TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>
complaining about the poor quality of physicians' handwriting, a problem which
can lead to fatally wrong doses being prescribed. Suggests that physicians
'return to those studies of penmanship' and presents some beautifully written
examples of how they should prescribe treatment. The examples represent
Punch's interpretation of physicians' aporisms: for example, 'Avoid
Empiricism', 'Drugs are Deleterious', 'Humbug is unprofessional', and 'Nature
alone cures'.
Medical Treatment, Medical Practitioners, Periodicals,
Pharmaceuticals, Reading
Opens by noting the medical students and 'zealous advocates of medical
reform' who have asked his opinion on 'Allmyeyeopathy', a technique which he
confesses to knowing 'but little' but insists is not secret. Goes on to liken
the 'practice of physic' to a 'game of draughts' because it is speculative and
involves 'solid and liquid draughts', adding that 'playing with one you are
huffed for not taking a man, while with the other you may be
huffed for losing him'. Noting the fear caused in patients by 'a
medicated arsenal' and the high resistance of the 'constitution of man' to
medicine, the author finally turns to the treatment of 'Allmyeyeopathy'.
Explains that it 'acts directly on the diaphragm from whence its influence
radiates to all the risible muscles' and is effected by exhibiting to the
patient 'Punch's concentrated essence' (i.e. exposing the patient to
Punch's jokes). Boasts of some individuals who have been cured by this
remedy, including a statesman who, having 'lost his seat, after a violent
struggle, and fell heavily in public estimation', took three-penny worth (the
price of the periodical), and recovered. Concludes by emphasising the
historical precedent for 'Allmyeyeopathy'—placebos—but points out
that this one is the first to meet with 'uniform success'. Warns, however, that
the essence must be taken regularly, but boasts that now 'Vis comica has
succeeded to the business of vis medicatrix naturae', and strongly
recommends the substance to medical practitioners.
Informs her cousins of her surprising decision to decline the offer of
marriage to the dull and wealthy 'Lord Poppy', and her subsequent attachment to
a surgeon. She explains that 'little I[mogene]'s now link'd to mortar and
pestle' and 'dotes on the title of M.R.C.S', and although her beloved does not
appear in
Debrett 1802Debrett, John
1802. The Peerage of the United Kingdom of Great Britain & Ireland,
2 vols, London: F. C. & J. Rivington
CloseView the register entry >>, she is
looking forward to having her name on the brass plate of Dr Brown and
travelling to the 'erudite soil' of Scotland.
Accidents, Adulteration, Narcotics, Manufactories, Industry
Discusses a recent inquest at which it was revealed that a young woman died
accidentally from arsenic to which she was exposed in her employment—the
manufacture of artificial flower-leaves. Noting one juror's observation that
'the use of arsenite of copper in artificial flower-making was prohibited in
France', cynically adds that this would be 'out of the question' for British
manufacturers. Urges that the toxic chemical should be abolished and suggests
that one way might be to get 'fast young men' to inspire in their dancing
partners a sense for disgust of the poisoned wreaths that they wear.
Shows John Bull, the allegorical figure of England, and an American military
figure (possibly intended to be
Abraham
LincolnLincoln, Abraham
(1809–65)
CBD CloseView the register entry >>), standing on separated islands (representing different
continents). John Bull warns the American that unless he apologises he will
'put the matter into the hands of my lawyers Messrs.
WHITWORTHWhitworth, Sir Joseph, 1st Baronet
(1803–87)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> and
ARMSTRONGArmstrong, Sir William George, Baron
Armstrong of Cragside
(1810–1900)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>'—a
reference to the two most prominent British gun-makers of the period. The
illustration refers to Britain's possible declaration of war on the Union
states in response to perceived aggression.
Puzzled by a handbill for 'AZÉMAR'S SILENT PRACTICE DRUM', explains
that it has 'all the advantages of a real one for purposes of practice, but is
also free from all the disadvantages of a drum which [...] makes a noise'. Goes
on to explain how the instrument enables the drummer to develop accurate
beating (principally by the vibrations transmitted from the drum to the leg).
Considers the benefits of making silent versions of other instruments, and
suggests that
Mr
AzémarAzémar, Mr
(fl. 1861)
PU1/41/24/1 CloseView the register entry >> and
Charles
BabbageBabbage, Charles
(1792–1871)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> should collaborate on such inventions.
Discusses an advertisement for the American spiritualist periodical
Herald of
ProgressSpiritual Telegraph
(1852–60)
Herald of Progress
(1860–64)
BUCOP CloseView the register entry >>, which it notes is edited by
Andrew J DavisDavis, Andrew Jackson
(1826–1910)
WBI CloseView the register entry >>,
who has now 'connected himself with a "Co."'. Supposes these business people
are 'importers of revelations and spiritual articles in general from the other
world', but thinks 'importers' might mean 'impostors'.
Announces some of the 'objects' that America will contribute to the
forthcoming
International ExhibitionInternational Exhibition (1862), London CloseView the register entry >>.
These include a 'Model of the Model Republic', 'accurate representations of
Spiritual Circles, Tables for Spirit Rapping, and Spirits under the
Tables'.
Nationalism, War, Animal Behaviour, Human Species, Human Development,
Race, Mental Illness, Cultural Geography
Begins by presenting an extract from the Irish nationalist newspaper,
NationNation
(1842–97)
Weekly Nation
(1897–1900)
BUCOP CloseView the register entry >>, which, in
'anticipation of a war between this country and America', relishes the prospect
of the English being defeated as they were at Fontenoy (in 1745, by the French)
and avenged for their ruthless treatment of the Irish, and hopes for the
establishment of an independent Ireland. Punch then presents its
'portrait of the Author', which shows him, a gorilla, sitting at a desk on
which rests a copy of the Nation and a paper marked 'TREASON'. Behind
him stands a police officer about to place a dunce's hat on the author's head.
The caption affirms Punch's connection between subversive Irish
nationalists and gorillas which, following the controversial claims of
Paul B Du
ChailluDu Chaillu, Paul Belloni
(1831–1903)
CBD CloseView the register entry >>, are both presented as 'savage'. The caption identifies the
author as a 'Mr. G-O'Rilla, the Young Ireland Party, exulting over the insult
to the British Flag', and asks: 'Shouldn't he be extinguished at once?'.
Politics, War, Animal Behaviour, Human Species, Human Development,
Mental Illness
Discusses a meeting of the Irish 'Yahoos' at the 'Pope's Head' for
celebrating England's likely involvement in the American Civil War. The savage
nature of participants is represented by their collective description as
'Yahoos' (a reference to the savage humans in
Swift 1726[Swift,
Jonathan] 1726. Travels into Several Remote Nations of the World.
In Four Parts. By Lemuel Gulliver, First a Surgeon, and then a Captain of
Several Ships, 2 vols, London, B. Motte
CloseView the register entry >>), by the abusive and
inarticulate abuse that the chairman, O'Donoghyahoo, hurls at 'the Saxon', the
'frantic howling', 'convulsive laughter', and other animal noises made by the
group, and by the fact that some of the Yahoos bear the names of simians,
notably Mr O'Rangoutang and Mr G. O'Rilla. Describes how some of the Yahoos
'gloated on the calamities which they anticipated for England' and notes how,
at the end of the meeting, the Yahoos shouted 'hurroos for the
POPEPius IX, Pope
(1792–1878)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> and
CAPTAIN
WILKSWilkes, Charles
(1798–1877)
CBD CloseView the register entry >>' and abuse at
Henry J Temple (3rd
Viscount Palmerston)Temple, Henry John, 3rd Viscount Palmerston
(1784–1865)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> and John Bull, and left the meeting engaging in
more animal behaviour. In conclusion, notes that the Yahoo is a 'creature
between the mongrel and the baboon'.
Race, Animal Behaviour, Cultural Geography, Human Species, Human
Development, Extinction
Recollects a story of an Irishman who, having been run over by a bishop's
carriage, merely asked 'What's that for'? Expresses concern that he and other
members of this 'docile race' have become extinct—a reference to
Punch's recurrent linkage of Irish nationalism and savagery. However, it
suggests evidence contrary to this trend: a report of gentlemanly behaviour
shown by an Irishman towards some ladies whom he ran over in Dublin.
Discusses a 'letter from Rome' describing how the Catholic authorities in
Rome have made 'the art of photography' illegal unless authorised by the
Cardinal Vicar of Rome,
Costantino
PatriziPatrizi, Costantino
(d. 1876)
WBI CloseView the register entry >>. Describes the punishment to be meted out to offenders, and
reveals that the extreme measure followed the publication of 'some very
scandalous photographic representations' in which the heads of leading
Catholics were 'placed on the bodies of other individuals'. Wonders whether
Pope Pius IXPius IX, Pope
(1792–1878)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> would
have intervened had the photographs of his enemies been manipulated in the same
way.
Expresses disappointment with Mount Vesuvius for erupting so furiously at a
delicate moment in Italian politics (a reference to the invasion of Sicily and
Naples by
Giuseppe
GaribaldiGaribaldi, Giuseppe
(1807–82)
CBD CloseView the register entry >>). Notes some of the other celebrated eruptions of the
volcano and condemns its actions as familiar and monotonous. Suggests, with
some 'scorn', treating it with the 'remedies against eruptions' supplied by
'several quacks in England'.
Exhibitions, Cultural Geography, Physical Geography, Natural History,
Animal Behaviour, Human Species, Human Development, Politics
Explaining that the directors of the
International ExhibitionInternational Exhibition (1862), London CloseView the register entry >> are
expecting contributions from the Northern States of America, presents a list of
some of the articles to be expected. These include 'The American Eagle'
with its 'natural food' ('bunkum'), 'Regular Opossums' and other
'curiosities of American natural history', 'A B'hoy', who will make an
interesting comparison 'with his superior' but related genus, the gorilla, and
'Specimens of American Apes, and Naturalised Irishmen, stuffed'. The list makes
implicit reference to the controversy over the aggressive nature of the
gorilla, and draws connections between the behaviour of these animals and the
violent anti-British behaviour of Americans and Irish nationalists.
Draws a comparison between a 'Painted Indian' pursuing an enemy in a forest
and a 'Sparkling Flirt' pursuing a lover at a 'mazy dance'. They differ in
their aims but have similar means: the Indian uses 'an arrow tipped with bane'
but the flirt uses a wreath clad in 'arsenious verdure'—a reference to
the recent discovery that artificial flowers worn by women contain potentially
fatal amounts of arsenic. Draws parallels between knightly chivalry and the
fate of women wearing poisonous wreaths.
Puffs
Punch's
AlmanackPunch's Almanack
(1842–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> as 'so fine a spirit of wit' that exposure to the air
will not destroy its qualities, adding that 'they form a strengthening and
wholesome mental diet' which 'no family or single person ought to be
without'.
Animal Behaviour, Zoology, Controversy, Human Species, Human
Development, Language
Insists that
Paul B Du
ChailluDu Chaillu, Paul Belloni
(1831–1903)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> (if he is believed in spite of
John E Gray'sGray, John Edward
(1800–75)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>
rebuttals) 'must have lived in a queer society in Africa'. Adds that the
'animal and human' 'brutes' that he found there 'bear no little resemblance' to
people in 'far more civilised localities', especially in central England.
Provides several examples of this, including the 'uncle-hunters, who have done
their best to worry those rich relatives to death, having bled them (through
their bankers) as much as well was possible'. Adds that the 'nest-building ape'
which Du Chaillu claims to have discovered has a 'civilised' equivalent: the
men who, with as much skill as the ape, make 'nests and know well how to
feather them', and who share with the nest-building ape the tendency to spend
much of their time 'up a tree' (i.e. hard up). Observes that 'customs'
considered 'savage, brutal, and inhuman' in gorillas are 'actually applauded'
in civilised communities, including living 'on one's relations' and asking how
a deceased rich man will 'cut up' (how his estate will be divided). Concludes
that although 'we may boast of our superior intelligence', there are still some
'Educated Englishmen' who 'behave themselves in no way better than Gorillas'.
The illustration shows a gorilla being measured for a suit by a decidedly
'Agitated Tailor', who complains about the length of his customer's arm.