Anticipating the solar eclipse predicted for December, describes the
experiences of Mr Punch on the 'Shortest Day of the disturbed, disastrous, and
dismal year, 1870'. Points out that 'Mr. PUNCH, the
Philosopher, was not meditating on disturbances, disaster, or dismalness', but
'pondering on Eclipses, with the assistance of
MR.
NORMAN LOCKYER'SLockyer, Sir Joseph Norman
(1836–1920)
DSB
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> Elementary
Lesson-book [Lockyer 1868Lockyer, Joseph
Norman 1868. Elementary Lessons in Astronomy, London:
Macmillan
CloseView the register entry >>],
and he had nearly persuaded himself that he partly understood something of the
theory of those phenomena'. Notes Mr Punch's interest in a passage on the
duration of solar eclipses and that such an event had not been visible from
London since 1715—the year 'in which the Northern Lights vainly tried to
eclipse the Star of Brunswick'. Mr Punch is then visited by the Greek god of
the sun, Monsieur Helios, and the Greek goddess of the moon, Mademoiselle
Selene or Diana. During their conversation, the latter demonstrates to Mr Punch
how she will put Monsieur Helios 'out' on the following day, but Mr Punch asks
for 'a bit of astrology, not astronomy' so he can learn 'what's going to happen
in this Sublunary Wale'. Diana mocks Mr Punch's terrestrial concerns but tells
him her predictions for the 'destiny of France'—a reference to the
Franco-Prussian war. This information which is 'laid away in the golden casket'
of Mr Punch's memory. The first illustration shows Mr Punch observing a solar
eclipse—caused by Diana standing in front of the sun. Mr Punch reclines
in a chair, holding binoculars in his hands. The second illustration shows Mr
Punch causing the eclipse himself, by holding volume fifty-nine of Punch
in front of the sun.
Punch, 59 (1870), [v]–[viii].
Introduction
Anon
Genre:
Notes
Subjects:
Telegraphy, Class, Museums, Natural History, Steamships, Military
Technology, Accidents, Controversy, Medical Practitioners, Education, Gender,
Politics, Government
Politics, Government, Medical Practitioners, Utilitarianism
Notes parliamentary discussion of a bill for 'doing a little justice to the
Medical men who look after the poor', including
John Brady'sBrady, John
(1812–87)
Stenton 1976WBI CloseView the register entry >>
description of the poor pay and grave working conditions of such practitioners.
Punch supports this with several facts and figures. Explains that the
bill aims to provide poor-law union medical officers with a superannuation
scheme.
Noting the publication of the sixth edition of 'Hay Fever' (possibly
Smith 1868Smith, William
Abbotts 1868. Observations on Hay-Fever, Hay-Asthma, or Summer
Catarrh, 6th edn, London: H. Renshaw
CloseView the register entry >>) asks where is the
hay which is causing such a 'prevalent complaint'.
Time, Instruments, Accidents, Politics, Instrument-makers
Notes the destruction by fire of the clock tower of the
Palace of
WestminsterPalace of Westminster
CloseView the register entry >>, a tragedy caused by the contact between heated flues
and loose coconut fibre—the latter being stored under the bell and clock
to deaden the fall of the clock weights. Punch thinks this is 'the
remotest danger to provide against we have ever heard of' owing to the
impossibility of clock weights unhooking themselves, and warns that a greater
danger to
Edmund B
Denison'sBeckett (formerly Beckett Denison), Sir
Edmund, 1st Baron Grimthorpe
(1816–1905)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> clock is posed by flames from the pipe of workman standing
near the coconut and the 'possible incendiary consequences of Mr. Denison's
un-official, and
Mr. Ayrton'sAyrton, Acton Smee
(1816–86)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>
official, connection with the clock'. Concludes with a list of the 'heats' that
the Palace of Westminster has generated among 'its architects, clockmakers,
amateur and professional ventilation doctors' and others.
Notes the progress of the 'Medical Act Amendment Bill' which empowers the
General
Medical CouncilGeneral Medical Council
CloseView the register entry >> to 'declare a Quack "infamous" and "disgraceful"',
but wishes that it included a clause for 'flogging him at a cart's tail if he
dares to bring an action against a newspaper for publishing the fact that he
has been branded on his dirty forehead' (12).
Discusses a report in the
Agricultural JournalAgricultural Journal
(cited 1870)
PU1/59/2/2 CloseView the register entry >> describing
how a Cornish gamekeeper used the bait of an adder to catch a harrier hawk.
Considers that 'gamekeepers are generally actuated by a zeal which is not at
all according to knowledge, but is, on the contrary, according to ignorance,
the grossest, of natural history'. Asserts that they shoot down 'every one of
the Falconidae without mercy and without discrimination', and proceeds
to claim that the harrier hawk is not only beautiful but actually destroys such
poachers as adders. Concludes by suggesting that 'some of the resident
gentlefolks' enlighten the minds of their 'rustic audiences' with 'familiar'
accounts of the 'various birds and animals' with which they are acquainted.
Describes a conversation between an 'agriculturist' and an 'instructor'.
From
John Tenniel, 'Very High Farming', Punch, 59 (1870), [15], the latter proves to be a female
personification of science, holding a scroll announcing telegraphic
communication between Britain and India. This refers to the recently completed
Falmouth, Gibraltar, and
Malta TelegraphFalmouth, Gibraltar, and
Malta Telegraph
CloseView the register entry >>, which provides the final link in the telegraphic
cable between London and Bombay. The agriculturist begins by expressing his
wonder at the speed of railways but notes that 'Ziunce still faster is stridun'
owing to the speed of telegraphic transmission. He also notes that 'Electrical
communicashun / Around all this globe now extends' and that conversations with
'friends' in Botany Bay will be 'As quick, purty nigh, as we'm able / Wi' voice
droo a mouth-pipe to shout'. He recounts that, in his youth, 'people was used
to be frightened' by thunder and lightning, but 'now we hears' it is 'but a
gurt spark and loud snap'. Believes that the ability to use lightning for
sending news is a wonder that outclasses those produced by the 'Magishuns' of
ancient Egypt to impress the pharaohs. Concludes by comparing 'Ziunce' to
'Zorcery', since neither wizards nor chemists can 'alter the weather', and
affirms his faith in
St SwithunSwithun, St.
(d. 863)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>
rather than science for bringing rain. The instructor agrees that rain 'Is not
under human command' but points out that it is in a 'husbandman's power' to
construct 'tanks' for irrigating his land.
Noting a 'time-honoured theory' reported in 'a contemporary' periodical that
'races are indicated by the colour of the hair', suggests that this is a 'fact'
because men returning from Ascot usually have their hair discoloured by the
dust—and so their hair colour indicates 'their presence at the
races'.
Similar to
Anon, 'The Clod and the Cable', Punch, 59 (1870), 14, this shows a farmer standing in a
field before a female personification of 'Science' who clutches a telegraph
pole in one hand, and in the other holds a scroll bearing the words 'Communi
[cation w]ith India / Submar[ine] Telegraph'. In the distance, at the edge of
the field, telegraph lines are shown suspended between poles. Scratching his
head, Farmer Giles is astonished to learn that it is now possible to send and
receive signals from India in five minutes, and he asks her whether 'Science'
can 'telegra-a-aph to S'n Swithun, will'ee—Tell un to turn on a goodish
dra-ap o' reen vor my poor turmuts!'.
Pollution, Crime, Human Development, Class, Disease, Sanitation,
Hygiene, Public Health, Utilitarianism, Morality, Analogy
Begins with two recent extracts from the
Daily
TelegraphDaily Telegraph
(1856–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> and the
StandardStandard
(1827–60)
Evening Standard
(1860–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>. The
former describes how the
Chichester Training
ShipChichester, ship CloseView the register entry >>, moored off Greenhithe, is being used to train 'destitute boys
picked up in the streets of London' in the arts of seamanship; the latter
extract describes
William Hope'sHope, William
(fl. 1835)
WBI CloseView the register entry >>
demonstration to
ParliamentHouses of Parliament
CloseView the register entry >> of the virtues of irrigating
the soil with sewage, using specimens of wheat. The poem picks up on the theme
of dirt that appears in the two extracts, both human dirt and sewage. Proceeds
to reflect on the varieties of dirt in society, including the 'dirt of
uncared-for bodies' with which 'we sap life's strength and spring', and 'The
dirt of uncared-for dwellings' with which 'we as plague-seed broadcast fling',
and the 'human dirt [...] that festers in our streets, as the filth in our
sewers seethes'. Laments the way in which we 'dispose of' human dirt 'small and
early, where the baby farmer delves', but notes that 'the life in human dirt is
tough' and leads it to grow into the street 'rough' and eventually 'the load of
the prison-van'. However, blesses those with 'strong stomachs and kindly
hearts' who have not avoided the 'foul and festering stream' of real and human
dirt, but have sought to put this 'misplaced matter' into its right place.
Accordingly, praises sewage farmers for turning filth into food and others for
training the 'Street-Arab' to 'useful toil'.
Begins with an extract from the
Court
JournalCourt Journal
(1829–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> describing a gathering at
John Pender'sPender, Sir John
(1816–96)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>
Piccadilly mansion of '300 of the notabilities of rank, science, art and
fashion'—a gathering to celebrate the completion of the telegraphic
connection between London and Bombay. The poem describes the 'swelldom', the
'glare and the glitter and gossip' of the occasion, and explains that what has
brought together 'these leaders of fashion and science' is 'the small syphon
that, waving, / Scatters its fine jet ink in accord with the pulses electric, /
So making plain to the eye what the spark through the wires is
conveying'—a reference to
William
Thomson'sThomson, Sir William (Baron Kelvin of
Largs)
(1824–1907)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> syphon telegraphic recorder. Explains that the message
inscribed by the syphon recorder is 'Britannia stretching invisible hands under
ocean', which brings together east and west, and which allows exchanges between
London and distant parts of the globe. Adds that one message was sent to the
Viceroy of India,
Richard S Bourke (6th
Earl of Mayo)Bourke, Richard Southwell, 6th Earl of Mayo
(1822–72)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, who, despite the fact that he was roused out of bed,
showed what 'Miracle-workers are we [...] Saying to space "Be no more", and to
baffled Time, "Get thou behind me"'. Concludes with the warning the 'one
achievement remains': 'to use it for wise talk'—'Talk that shall lessen
earth's evil, and make its good larger and larger' and 'gather' the world into
'brotherhood's bondage'.
Begins by noting that, when
Ferdinand, vicomte de LessepsLesseps, Ferdinand, vicomte de
(1805–94)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> was
planning the
Suez CanalSuez Canal
CloseView the register entry >>, John Bull
refused to loan him any money and 'gave him and his big whim, / Alike, the "Cut
Direct"'. Points out, however, that now that the canal is an 'accomplished
fact', England 'Backs him' and expects him to 'Give us the "Cut Direct"'. Hopes
he will smile at the cheering crowd 'So lately scornful'.
Chemistry, Meteorology, War, Religion, Scientific Practitioners,
Nationalism, Belief, Boundary Formation
Reports that a French chemist, noting the coincidence between great battles
and heavy showers, has suggested that firing a general cannonade would end the
present drought—a plan which, if successful, the chemist thinks should be
marked by a 'religious celebration'. Wonders how
Michael
FaradayFaraday, Michael
(1791–1867)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> would have responded to this suggestion which would have
'rather misled the faithful but unscientific multitude'. Insists that a 'true
English' philosopher, unlike a French one, would refuse to do this, and 'We
would dissociate the theological from the scientific experiment for the
deduction of rain'.
Shows a scene on a river where the 'steam-yacht' of Paterfamilias, laden
with five other members of his family, has 'come to a stand-still, the fires
having gone out'. A 'polite stranger' in a canoe sidles up to the steam-yacht
and offers his cigar to Paterfamilias in order to rekindle the fire.
This protection society 'appeals for support to those unfortunate
practitioners who have incurred heavy penalties by their unskilfulness in
framing Declarations of attachment, but who are still courageously bent on
devoting their tender energies to please'. The advertisement also includes a
'Form of Declaration' in which the bachelor declares that he is 'held and
firmly bound' to the spinster by the ties of admiration or affluence, and lists
the circumstances under which the declaration would become invalid. These
include: 'If in fashionable mockery of
Professor
TYNDALLTyndall, John
(1820–93)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>', the bachelor 'shall raise a dust in the
Park, proudly regardless of the mischief which follows in [the spinster's]
train'.
Politics, Government, Engineering, Vaccination, Medical Treatment,
Telegraphy, Religion
Notes
William Tite'sTite, Sir William
(1798–1873)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>
announcement that the
Thames
EmbankmentThames Embankment
CloseView the register entry >> will be completed in two years' time using millstone
grit. Also notes a bill for abolishing the poaching act of 1862 and discusses a
vaccination debate in which
Henry A BruceBruce, Henry Austin, 1st Baron Aberdare
(1815–95)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>
adhered to the principle of compulsory vaccination and organised a committee to
'consider how that can be best enforced with due regard to the wishes of the
people' (24). The writer also ridicules prelates for forgetting that, 'with the
telegraphs established all over England (except in idiotic towns where the
people are afraid of their twopenny secrets being known to the postmaster or
postmistress)', they could better inform rural parishes of the changes laid out
in the new lectionary.
Shows
William E
ForsterForster, William Edward
(1818–86)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> as a pupil standing in a classroom before the
schoolmistress, Britannia, who sits in a chair and asks how he has progressed
in his mathematics problem. According to the caption, 'MASTER'
Forster claims that he has solved the problem and has done so by reducing 'all
the fractions to the lowest common denomination'. Britannia is impressed and
tells Forster: 'Good Boy! Go up!'. Forster then 'enters the Cabinet'.
Vaccination, Politics, Medical Treatment, Government
Notes Charles Gilpin's opposition to the vaccination act, and his attempts
to convince those who deny the efficacy of a well-performed vaccination by
'reason and argument'. Adds that just as John Gilpin 'borrowed a horse from his
friend the Calenderer, and it ran away with him', so Charles Gilpin 'has
borrowed a hobby from the laissez-faire livery stables, and it has run
away with him'.
Noting the use of a 'Steam Paving Machine' in Paris, suggests that
'ablebodied convicts' could crush the fragments of granite and shingle on the
roads.
Engineering, Human Development, Medical Practitioners, Health, Natural
History, Observation
A series of extracts that reflect contemporary themes. An extract from
Adam SmithSmith, Adam
(1723–90)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> on love
includes the line: 'Men have crossed oceans and Isthmuses of Suez for woman's
sake, and come back crossed in love themselves'. An extract from
Isaac WattsWatts, Isaac
(1674–1748)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> contains
a list of proverbs, one of which advises: 'Dissemble: never show your teeth
except to your dentist'. Finally, an extract from
Gilbert WhiteWhite, Gilbert
(1720–93)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>
urges readers that their health can be improved on country rambles by paying
attention to 'every page in the book of nature [...] the shape and colour of
the cloud hanging over your neighbour', after which they can sit down for a
meal 'with a thankful heart, a vigorous appetite [...] and bottle of the
far-famed and world-renowned Nottinghamshire Sauce'.
Spiritualism, Mesmerism, Medical Treatment, Charlatanry, Race,
Nationalism
Discusses the alleged cures by the mesmeric and spiritualist healer,
F L NewtonNewton, Dr F L
(1810–83)
Fodor 1934 CloseView the register entry >>, in
particular his treatment of the curvature of a baby's spine. Points out that if
Newton's treatment had been 'attested by but one metropolitan hospital surgeon'
then 'the whole medical profession would believe in the curative powers of
DR. NEWTON, and advise the British Public to
credit them too'. Turns to a report of Newton's treatment of a lame Irishman
who, owing to one of his legs being bent backwards, used a wooden leg to
support him. Newton apparently healed the man who walked away with the wooden
limb on his shoulder. Punch dryly admits that it has 'not the slightest
difficulty' in believing that an Irishman 'did limp into the presence of
DR. NEWTON with a bent knee and a wooden leg,
and walk out of it with the knee straight, and the wooden leg on his
shoulder'.
Shows two children who have abandoned a game of croquet in order to kneel in
prayer before
St SwithunSwithun, St.
(d. 863)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>,
who has appeared before them. The saint is represented as a giant barometric
weather gauge—the dial being his face, and the indicators sprouting from
his nose. The caption indicates the saint's dilemma in the current drought:
'What was Saint Swithun to do?—Spoil the Croquet or Corn?'.
Discusses
Frederick A
Paget'sPaget, Frederick Arthur
(fl. 1870)
Paget 1870 COPAC CloseView the register entry >> argument that using steam-rollers on roads would halve the
costs of breaking stones. Punch points out that this would also save on
'broken [carriage] springs, and battered wheels, and injured horses' feet, and
jolted bones, and shaken nerves'. Warns that vestrymen would only listen to the
economic argument in favour of steam-rollers, since appealing to their feelings
would be useless. Points out that vestrymen would only 'listen to the voice of
reason' were they to be indicted for cruelty to animals caused by stones on
roads.
Shows the Rev Alban Rochet being photographed 'in "Full Ritualistic Fig" to
present to his flock'. The 'Country Photographer' asks him: 'The heyes might be
helevated a little 'igher, your Reverence!!'.
Outlines an 'economy which might be effected in the arms with which we
furnish our gallant Volunteers'. Insists that the Enfield rifle which is
currently used would be 'practically useless' against the
ChassepotsChassepot, Antoine Alphonse
(1833–1905)
WBI CloseView the register entry >>, and therefore should be sold
to a country whose enemies are armed with even more rudimentary weapons.
Suggests that the Enfields should be replaced by mopsticks, which are as
effective for drill purposes. Also suggests replacing Enfields with
breech-loaders, although 'these would cost money, and it is not certain that we
have just yet an enemy at our door'.
The writer begins by introducing himself as somebody who practised mycophagy
or fungus-eating as a hobby, believing that pursuing 'objects, or subjects,
belonging to the vegetable kingdom' is mentally elevating. Presents an extract
from the
Medical Press and CircularDublin Medical Press
(1839–1865)
London Medical Press and Circular
(1866)
Medical Press
(1866–1900+)
BUCOP CloseView the register entry >>
describing a case of a couple who showed symptoms of cryptogamic poisoning
after eating some mushrooms with their tea—the mushrooms apparently being
mixed with poisonous fungi. Insists that the poisoning was caused by toxic
substances in the tea and prints an extract from the same report showing how
'true' and 'false' mushrooms can be distinguished. Disputes the reliability of
this distinction, highlighting instances where genuine mushrooms have some of
the outward features of false ones, and appealing to the authority of
Badham 1847Badham, Charles
David 1847. A Treatise on the Esculent Funguses of England,
Containing an account of their Classical History, Uses, Characters,
Development, Structure, Nutritious Properties, Modes of Cooking and Preserving,
&c, London: Reeve
CloseView the register entry >>, and to the
coloured diagrams of fungi by
Worthington G
SmithSmith, Worthington George
(1835–1917)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> displayed in the window of 'MR.
HARDWICKE'SHardwicke, Robert
(1822–75)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> Shop in Piccadilly'. Wishes readers to
consider Smith's distinction between wholesome and poisonous mushrooms and his
account of the symptoms which he experienced early in his fungus-eating
researches. Observes: 'Wise men like you, Sir, do not eat mushrooms unless they
know the bad from the good as well as they know parsley from hemlock. They read
the rights books about them first, or study them in Nature, or, before they
venture on dishes of them, they consult plates'.
Notes that 'it was finally settled that the Beasts, Birds, Fishes, Insects,
Eggs, and all the Natural History at the
British
MuseumBritish Museum
CloseView the register entry >>, should be sent off to South Kensington, and £6,000
was voted for land whereon to build a receptacle for them'. Mr Punch 'rejoices'
in this move, but questions whether zoology should 'have been sent so many
miles away from the homes of the only class (except students) that cares about
it'. (66)
Shows several scruffy and dirty men forming a queue in front of a desk in
the surgery of a woman doctor, Dr Arabella. She asks them what she can do for
them, and Bill, who heads the queue, explains that he and his mates, 'bein' out
o' work' and 'wantin' to turn an honest penny' any way they can, wondered if
she 'wouldn't mind recommendin' [... them] as nurses'.
A series of extracts that comment on contemporary themes. The first extract,
from
Edward GibbonGibbon, Edward
(1737–94)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>,
describes the 'decline of the vast Aryan empire' as if it were the Roman
Empire. The signs of decline include the fact that the 'treasures of art, the
wonders of science, the marvellous products of inventive genius and the patent
laws, reposed, neglected and forgotten in galleries and cabinets, in museums
and mechanics' institutes' were 'all at the mercy of the barbarous invader'.
The second extract, from
Carl LinnaeusLinnaeus (or von Linné), Carl
(1707–78)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>,
describes the naturalist's observations of flowers in a peaceful meadow, his
reverence for 'the wise Professor' who taught him to 'distinguish between the
delicious mushroom and the deleterious toad-stool', and his need to return to
his 'ten pound-tenement'. Linnaeus is thus compared to a Victorian
fungus-eater. The illustration shows a women strolling on a beach, her costume
making her resemble a giant snail.
Environmentalism, Meteorology, Ecology, Botany, Cultural Geography,
Government, Politics
Begins by warning that England lost 'fifty millions by a failure of the hay
crop in consequence of the drought', which is a continuation of a three-year
'rain famine'. Adds that since 'trees are the great retainers of moisture',
felling trees will only exacerbate this problem. Points out that since the
revolution, France has felled many of its trees, which has resulted in
'particularly severe' droughts, although the government is now planting trees
to remedy the situation. Supports a remark made by a correspondent in
The TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>, who
attacks plans to 'destroy the New Forest, one of the best storehouses of
moisture' in the south of England. Hopes the 'enlightened public will restrain
them from carrying out the despicable intentions of Foolish Fellers'.
War, Medical Practitioners, Medical Treatment, Gender
Referring to England's involvement in the escalating Franco-Prussian war,
this illustration depicts a scene outside a 'Hospital Stores' on a battlefield.
Britannia is represented as a nurse who holds the hand of a wounded French
soldier in one hand, and with the other, hands a bottle of medicine to a
Prussian troop. The caption explains that 'At least we may help the sick and
wounded'.
A series of unlikely extracts that comment on contemporary themes. The
first, from
Thomas R
MalthusMalthus, Thomas Robert
(1766–1834)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>, praises the sight of a 'perambulator filled with healthy
children!', judging it to be 'one of the most useful inventions of modern
civilisation, and only third to the steam-engine and the patent
feeding-bottle'. Another, from
Benjamin
FranklinFranklin, Benjamin
(1706–90)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>, condemns liberty and the freedom of the press, preferring
that 'printing ink had never been invented' than it should have been 'abused to
disseminate, amongst the humbler sorts of men, those notions of equality, and
that spirit of insubordination to constituted authority, which are the
dangerous symptoms of this levelling age'. (92) An extract from
George
BerkeleyBerkeley, George
(1685–1753)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> ponders the origin of ideas, the analysis of which will
need to be recorded, although the mill for producing the paper on which such
records will be made has not yet been built. The extract also notes that 'If
the mind of man were a tabula rasa [...] we could believe [..] in an endless
succession of elastic causations [of thought] [...] but as it is we are left to
grope on in the dim vaults of dusty speculation'. (93)
Medical Treatment, Medical Practitioners, Spiritualism, Quackery,
War
Insists that, if his claims are genuine, the healing medium,
F L NewtonNewton, Dr F L
(1810–83)
Fodor 1934 CloseView the register entry >>, should be
'at the seat of war' (viz., the Franco-Prussian war), pointing out that if he
'is half the healer and philanthropist those who believe in him make him out,
he would instantly rush to the battle-plain, and stop the effusion of
blood'.
Shows a woman strolling on a sea-side promenade. She wears a veil and a
large hat to conceal a pimpled face. The caption indicates that she had gone to
the sea-side believing that the sun and sea-air would be good for her health,
but now her complexion has been 'completely spoiled the very morning before the
monthly ball'.
Scientific Practitioners, Botany, Zoology, Microscopy, Collecting,
Health
Explaining that owing to the war, 'we English are unable to take our walks
abroad this autumn', describes the eccentric pursuits of some people trying to
enjoy themselves on holiday. These include Professor Muddlewits who has 'been
enjoying a week's fishing in his water-butt, and is now engaged in
microscopically examining the treasures of the deep which he has managed to
collect', and Mr Flycatcher whose most successful day—in which he
gathered many insects—ended with him coming upon a wasps' nest.
Presents some 'diversified intelligence' to leaven the 'dearth of all news
but war-news'. It consists of brief reports of scientific and apparently
miraculous phenomena observed by professional and amateur practitioners. For
example, in a report entitled 'Origin of Species' (the title of
Darwin 1859Darwin, Charles
Robert 1859. On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural
Selection; or, The Preservation of Favoured Races in the Struggle for Life,
London: John Murray
CloseView the register entry >>), it claims that
'a sow in the possession of Mr. Mangold farmer, of Snorton Suis, produced on
the 24th inst. a farrow of nine piglings, one of which has a snout terminating
in a proboscis similar to that of the elephant, only of smaller size. This
aberrant little pachyderm presents an illustration of the Theory of Development
which may be acceptable to
MR.
DARWINDarwin, Charles Robert
(1809–82)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>'.
Bids farewell to the ramrod rifle, the 'trusty rod of steel', pointing out
that 'Britannia's sons / Require breechloading guns, / In case foreign band /
Invade their native land'. Anticipates that it is 'doomed to rust' unless it is
'Kept burnish'd [...] In antique armoury'. Wonders about the current situation,
since he still grasps the ramrod in his hand because he is still waiting for
replacements of 'fire-arms out of date'. Concludes by wishing that he 'could
outright / Armed for effectual fight / At instantaneous call'.
Museums, Natural History, Zoology, Religious Authority,
Religion
Claims that the
British
MuseumBritish Museum
CloseView the register entry >> 'possesses a most interesting collection of stuffed
archbishops, several cases in one of the Natural History Saloons being devoted
to "The Primates"'.
War, Military Technology, Education, Nationalism,
Agriculture
Discusses the claim by
Otto E L von
Bismarck (Count of Bismarck-Schönhausen)Bismarck, Prince Otto Edward Leopold von, Duke of Lauenburg
(1815–98)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> that Germany must be
made 'By Blood and Iron'. Notes that these are the means by which Germany is
attempting to achieve peace, and that Germany is now reaping the harvest 'To be
reaped 'gainst all gainsaying / Of foes', a 'harvest of patient Learning, / Of
Peace's crafts and arts; / Of Science's sharp discerning, / And Labour's busy
marts'. Warns that before blood and iron can 'yield this harvest rare / Right
soil must seed the environ, / And nurture of breezes fair'.
A series of disjointed observations on natural and social phenomena. For
example, begins by claiming that 'Early Science has its martyrs: so has the
gout'. Later notes that 'The rainfall in the course of the year in some
countries than in others, and is thought to vary with the weather' and that
'The climate of Madagascar has lately been subjected to a searching chemical
analysis by three of the first physicians of the day' who show that it consists
of 'unequal parts of oxygen, ozone, common salt, and the breath of popular
applause'.
Shows two Scottish gamekeepers and a hunter on a highland moor. One of them
stands before a mitrailleuse (a breach-loading machine gun), which he aims into
the distance. The caption explains that much to the 'disgust' of the keepers,
the hunter, 'Mr. Snapwincke, who has a view to a "Big Bag" of his moor in as
short a time as possible [...] can't see why you should shut your eyes to the
advance of science' and builds the new weapon 'on a principle of his own'.
Discusses a letter in the
Daily NewsDaily News
(1846–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>
from a 'Protesting Ratepayer' who refuses to pay the vestrymen of his
Northamptonshire village for destroying thirty thousand sparrows and their
eggs.
Music, Invention, Medical Practitioners, Travel, Exploration,
Ornithology, Discovery
A series of disjointed stories of invention, most of which play on the
similarity of the name of the invention and that of the alleged inventor.
Claiming that
John BlowBlow, John
(1648?–1708)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> invented the
hand-bellows, describes how Blow presented his instrument to various
dignitaries. It proved so popular that its manufacturer in 'Air Street' was
'overwhelmed with orders from all parts of he kingdom and the Channel Islands'.
Similarly, describes how 'DR. FARMER, one of
the original writers of the Pharmacopoeia', explained his construction of 'a
new and improved Sowing-Machine'. Notes the discovery by
Christopher
ColumbusColumbus, Christopher
(1451–1506)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> of 'canaries at sunrise on the morrow of St. Martin, in the
lovely islands in the Platonic Ocean which derive their name from these
favourite little warblers', and concludes by discussing various theories
concerning the invention of horseshoes.
A series of disjointed observations on the natural and social world. These
include a report that 'The rhinoceros in MR.
LYONS'S menagerie last night presented the elephant with a
fine foal. This is the first instance on record of a pachydermatous hybrid,
which, should it fortunately survive, will doubtless prove no small attraction
to zoologists'.
Noting that adulterating milk with water is now called 'bobbing the milk',
asks why the 'Bobby' (policeman) cannot do something against 'Bobbing'?
Suggests that 'We might give him a Lactometer, and bid him use it during his
early lounge. If it revealed adulateration, let him avenge the milk-can by a
dig in the bread-basket. This would be a good specimen of provisional
Government'.
Punch, 59 (1870), 126.
The Moors. No. 2[2/2]Charles S Keene, 'On the Moors', Punch, 59 (1870), 115
The sequel to
Charles S Keene, 'On the Moors', Punch, 59 (1870), 115, this shows two gamekeepers and Mr
Snapwincke being thrown backwards by the discharge of the mitrailleuse. The
caption explains that 'owing to some mistake, after several misses, all the
barrels go off at once', causing the weapon to kick out 'right and left and all
round'.
Military Technology, Steamships, Accidents, Nationalism, War
Laments the loss of the ironclad, HMS Captain, on its maiden voyage.
This was 'The finest ship we had, The finest on the sea'. Ponders the fact that
it only recently 'rejoiced' in 'that matchless turret-ship', and states that
its 'few survivors' told of how the ship toppled over by a 'squall's side-blow'
and 'sank to the bottom, fast, / Like a stone'. With the ship sank 'all the
wealth she cost' and 'the brave', including the ship's architect,
Cowper P ColesColes, Cowper Phipps
(1819–70)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>.
Believes there was never an English wreck 'so sore' as this one, and ponders
the 'gap in England's wall' and the fate of the bereaved. Concludes by
insisting that Britons 'owe a debt' to the dead and that they will discharge
this duty.
A series of observations on the natural and social world. For example, 'An
acquaintance with Geology is much more common than is generally supposed: we
all know chalk from cheese'. Also,
Alexander
von HumboldtHumboldt, Alexander von (Friedrich Wilhelm
Heinrich Alexander von)
(1769–1859)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> 'knew of no race of people, however savage and swarthy,
which did not keep up the custom of saluting the bridesmaids on the return of
the wedding party from church, except among the Mongols, who tattoo them,
instead, with true lovers' knots and the monogram of the bride and groom
interlaced, in red ink, at the chemist's'.
Societies, Anthropology, Race, Gender, Class, Animal Behaviour,
Cultural Geography
Noting the visit of the regular Punch contributor, Smelfungus, to the
meeting of the
British
Association for the Advancement of ScienceBritish Association for the Advancement of Science
CloseView the register entry >>, presents an extract
from
John Lubbock'sLubbock, Sir John, 4th Baronet and 1st Baron
Avebury
(1834–1913)
DSB
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>
address 'On the Social and Religious Condition of the Lower Races of Man' (a
version of which was published as
Lubbock 1871Lubbock, John
1871. 'The Social and Religious Condition of the Lower Races of Man. An Address
to the Working Men of Liverpool', in Annual Report of the Board of Regents
of the Smithsonian Institution. Showing the Operation, Expenditures, and
Condition of the Institution, for the Year 1869, Washington: Government
Printing Office, 341–362
CloseView the register entry >>). Lubbock
observes that women are treated like slaves among 'savages', especially
'Australian savages' who appear to have inflicted wounds on the heads of their
women. The author questions whether any difference exists between 'the
condition of women in the wilds of Australia and the wives in the London
slums', since husbands in the former location use spears to inflict wounds,
while those in London use their fists to give their spouses 'black eyes and
bruises'.
Punch, 59 (1870), 143.
Ozokerit: A Plant (From a Manuscript in a Collection, Entitled
"Fakements of ye Future", Ascribed toDR.
DEEDee, John
(1527–1608)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>)
Zoology, Meteorology, Animal Development, Evolution, Measurement,
Matter Theory
A response to Huxley's recent address to the
British
Association for the Advancement of ScienceBritish Association for the Advancement of Science
CloseView the register entry >> (a version of which was
published as
Huxley 1871Huxley, Thomas
Henry 1871. 'Address', Report of the Fortieth Meeting of the
British Association for the Advancement of Science, Held at Liverpool in
September 1870, lxxxiii–lxxxix
CloseView the register entry >>), the author
begins by asking Huxley to clarify his claim that there are germs in the
atmosphere. Asks whether he means live germs which are 'animacules' that form
'In an infusion [...] of hay' rather than eggs which would lead to the 'absurd'
notion that infusoria laid eggs in the air. Proceeds to question what Huxley
means by the 'exceedingly small' size of germs of live matter, asking him 'how
much more so than matter is all'. Explains that germs will not be destroyed by
'sulphuric acid and fire', but insists that 'more proof' is needed to support
Huxley's claim regarding the nature of germs. Concludes by suggesting that 'all
we can safely declare' is that 'Germs are small particles floating in the
air'.
Discusses a report in the
Morning
PostMorning Post and Daily Advertising Pamphlet
(1772–1900+)
Waterloo Directory
CloseView the register entry >> relating that a man's death had been attributed to the
selling of his horse for a high price. The newspaper reported that it was said
that if the horse had won another race it would have killed the owner, since he
was so excited by it. Suggesting that the man probably died of the 'excess of
happiness' caused by the sale of the horse, the author argues that this case is
an 'edifying exception' to the 'mysterious biological law, seemingly analogous
to that of electrical induction', by which the 'positive nobleness of that
noble animal the horse appears generally to induce an opposite condition upon
those who have habitually much to do with it'.
Adulteration, Crime, Nutrition, Medical Treatment, Cultural
Geography
Lamenting the high incidence of food adulteration in France, presents an
extract from a report criticizing the level of British fines for adulteration,
which are too low to act as a deterrent, and presents a further extract
describing the far heavier penalties imposed by French authorities on
adulterators. Wishes the French system to be adopted in Britain and, following
the French system of publishing the offences of the adulterator, presents a
series of examples of the foul deeds of shady food and drug adulterators.
Suggests that 'some clever engineer' should devise a machine for throwing
water constructed on similar principles to 'that horrid implement of
destruction, the Mitrailleuse'. Believes that such a machine could disperse a
disaffected crowd in Hyde Park or Trafalgar Square.
Notes that a deputation recently waited on the Lord Mayor of London,
Robert BesleyBesley, Robert
(1794–1876)
WBI CloseView the register entry >>, to
secure his help in promoting 'Technical Education'. Suggests that, given the
City of
London'sCorporation of London
CloseView the register entry >> penchant for sumptuous banquets, 'Technical Education'
refers to 'instruction in practical Gastronomy'.
Describes a 'new book',
The Mystery of PainHinton, James
1870. The Mystery of Pain: A Book for the Sorrowful, 4th edn, London:
Smith, Elder
CloseView the register entry >>,
which deals with a subject 'reason can't explain' but which is 'too certainly
made out' since a 'stomach-ache 'tis pain enough to rue'. Concludes by advising
readers, 'Rack not your brains and get a headache too'.
The initial letter forms part of an illustration showing an aged philosopher
sitting at a desk in his study, with a copy of 'Animated Nature' open before
him. Begins by suggesting that 'Philosophy at Liverpool', a reference to the
recent meeting of the
British
Association for the Advancement of ScienceBritish Association for the Advancement of Science
CloseView the register entry >>, was 'a great success'
because 'People have been hearing so much about War that they are glad to meet
where bellicose topics are excluded'. Assesses the virtues of Brighton as the
host city for the next association meeting, noting that the 'Marine Section
could have its specimens fresh out of water'. Urges readers to peruse reports
of the papers in the
AthenaeumAthenaeum
(1828–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>,
and comments on some of the papers presented. For example, claims that the
paper on 'Mothaemoglobin' (a reference to a paper by
E Ray
LankesterLankester, Sir Edwin Ray
(1847–1929)
DSB
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, a version of which was published as
Lankester 1871Lankester, Edwin
Ray 1871. 'Note on Methæmoglobin', Report of the Fortieth
Meeting of the British Association for the Advancement of Science, Held at
Liverpool in September 1870, Notes and Abstracts of Miscellaneous
Communications to the Sections, 141
CloseView the register entry >>)
concerned 'the instinct, or disease, which induces moths to burn themselves in
the Globes of lamps'. Notes that, in the 'Moon-Section', it was claimed 'that
PlatoPlato
(428–348/7 BC)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> [a reference to the
lunar crater of that name] is found to be habitually covered with a great
number of spots', which 'seemed easily accounted for' given that 'He is very
difficult to read, and when a student lays down his pipe to turn to the
lexicon, baccy will often escape'. In the 'Biological Section' there was a
paper 'proving that "in certain persons over-study has a tendency to cause
insanity', which contained the caveat that such persons were 'infinitesimal' in
number compared with the 'number of those in whom under-study has already
developed something like idiotcy'. The article alludes to a number of other
presentations at the meeting, versions of which were later published as
Carruthers 1871Carruthers,
William 1871. 'On the History and Affinities of the British
Coniferæ', Report of the Fortieth Meeting of the British Association
for the Advancement of Science, Held at Liverpool in September 1870, Notes
and Abstracts of Miscellaneous Communications to the Sections, 71
CloseView the register entry >>,
Cobbold 1871Cobbold, Thomas
Spencer 1871. 'Remarks on the Heart of a Chinese Dog containing
Haematozoa, received from R. Swinhoe, Esq., H.B.M. Consul, Amoy China',
Report of the Fortieth Meeting of the British Association for the
Advancement of Science, Held at Liverpool in September 1870, Notes and
Abstracts of Miscellaneous Communications to the Sections, 135
CloseView the register entry >>,
Humphry 1871Humphry George
Murray 1871. 'On the Homological Relations to one another of the
Fins of Fishes', Report of the Fortieth Meeting of the British Association
for the Advancement of Science, Held at Liverpool in September 1870, Notes
and Abstracts of Miscellaneous Communications to the Sections, 141
CloseView the register entry >>,
Birt 1871Birt, William
Radcliffe 1871. 'On the Present State of the Question relative to
Lunar Activity or Quiescence', Report of the Fortieth Meeting of the British
Association for the Advancement of Science, Held at Liverpool in September
1870, Notes and Abstracts of Miscellaneous Communications to the Sections,
20–22
CloseView the register entry >>,
Davis 1871Davis, A S 1871. 'On
the Distribution of Cometic Perihelia', Report of the Fortieth Meeting of
the British Association for the Advancement of Science, Held at Liverpool in
September 1870, Notes and Abstracts of Miscellaneous Communications to the
Sections, 22–23
CloseView the register entry >>, and
Stoney 1871Stoney, George
Johnstone 1871. 'On the Effect which a Mint Charge has upon the
value of Coins, to which is added a Proposition for securing at once some of
the advantages of International Coinage', Report of the Fortieth Meeting of
the British Association for the Advancement of Science, Held at Liverpool in
September 1870, Notes and Abstracts of Miscellaneous Communications to the
Sections, 201–203
CloseView the register entry >>. Concludes by
presenting Mr Punch's congratulations to the 'Philosophers of Liverpool'.
Shows two lost male ramblers in a church, standing before a 'High-Church
Priest'. One tries to get his bearings from the position of the church's
chancel window, but the priest tells them not to use his church 'for a secular
purpose', asserting, 'you'll find an unconsecrated weathercock on the barn
yonder'.
A series of observations on natural and social phenomena. For example, 'that
if the postage stamps, used by Great Britain and her dependencies in the course
of twelve months, were heaped up together, they would form an enormous pile
exactly corresponding to the
Great
PyramidGreat Pyramid of Giza, Egypt CloseView the register entry >> in weight and dimensions'.
Notes the publication of
Granny's Chapters on
Scriptural SubjectsRoss, Mary, Lady
1870–72. "Granny's Chapters" (On Scriptural Subjects) [With
Preface by E. M. Goulburn], Series 1 and 2, 4 vols, London: ???
CloseView the register entry >>. Emphasises the novelty of having a 'biblical
commentator to come out avowedly in the character of an old woman' and hopes
the author 'will be found to have so acquitted herself therein, especially by
her manner of dealing, for example, with astronomy and geology in relation to a
portion of her subject-matter, as to delight Convocation, astonish
COLENSOColenso, John William
(1814–83)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, and make philosophers
see that they must not pretend to instruct their Grandmother in a method of
eating eggs'.
Shows an English military officer (in civilian costume) and a highland
Scotsman leading a game hunt. Captain Jinks is pleased to learn from the
evidently confused Donald that the land has 'tousans' of birds and zebras, but
only 'ane or twa' gorillas.
Notes from an article in
The TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> that
the French are sending balloons to the provinces not occupied by the Germans,
which are followed by the light cavalry 'as long as they continue in sight'.
Punning on the word 'light', suggests that only 'light cavalry' could follow
the balloons through the air.
Aeronautics, War, Military Technology, Amusement, Meteorology,
Measurement, Analytical Chemistry
Responding to news that the French are using balloons in their war with
Prussia, begins by telling balloon pioneers
Michel J
de MontgolfierMontgolfier, Michel Joseph de
(1740–1810)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> and
Jean F
Pilatre de RozierPilatre de Rozier, Jean François
(1754–85)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> that their invention, 'That the world scorn'd as
useless', has 'At last proved its claim / To all that you asked for it'. Notes
that the balloon initially 'Seemed, for no higher purpose' than entertainment,
raising
Mme
PoitevinPoitevin, Mme.
(fl. 1850)
http://www.balloonlife.com/publications/balloon_life/9512/history.htm
CloseView the register entry >>,
Charles GreenGreen, Charles
(1785–1870)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>,
and elephants into the air to draw crowds at pleasure gardens. However, now it
is used to measure 'The infinite of space, / Or sift the fluffy cloudlets /
That speckle heaven's bright face' and to 'Take soundings of the atmosphere, /
Or analyse sky-blue', and now it enables
James GlaisherGlaisher, James
(1809–1903)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>
and
Henry T
CoxwellCoxwell, Henry (Tracey)
(1819–1900)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> to record 'in weight and measure / The secrets of the air'.
Balloons are now used to evade 'Prussia's Iron grasp' that grips Paris, models
such as the
GéantGéant, balloon CloseView the register entry >>
evading the 'Prussian bullets' and riding over towers and tides. Points out
that balloons can bear 'weightier freight', noting the balloon that constituted
French minister of the interior
Léon M
Gambetta'sGambetta, Léon Michel
(1838–82)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> 'chariot of estate'. However, the author warns that
Gambetta's balloon quickly collapsed as 'hopes builds France thereon'.
Concludes by noting the connection between the rise and fall of 'hopes and
trusts' and the corresponding trajectory of balloons.
Medical Treatment, War, Cultural Geography, Nationalism
Noting the story of an Irish boy who uses the word 'physic' to mean 'kill',
recommends the story to French authorities charged with receiving Irish
gentlemen who have volunteered to attend the French wounded in the
Franco-Prussian war. Suggests that the Irish gentlemen may be intending to fill
sick-beds.
Relishes an extract from a
Morning
PostMorning Post and Daily Advertising Pamphlet
(1772–1900+)
Waterloo Directory
CloseView the register entry >> report that, owing to the hostilities between Germany and
France, German ladies have stopped wearing chignons. Since 'The proper study of
mankind is man, especially woman', and since its 'most important branch' is
phrenology, the removal of chignons from women's heads will facilitate better
'phrenological observation' of 'the better half of mankind'. Explains that it
was impossible to examine a young lady's head owing to the chignon, and the
'natural hair piled in turrets and fortifications over all the organs of the
moral sentiments'. Removal of this 'superstructure' often revealed that the
woman had only a 'large Love of Approbation which uncombined with Ideality, and
undirected by intelligence, rendered her the slave of fashion, and grotesque'.
Believes the fall of the chignon and 'adjoining fortifications' will follow
that of the Metz, and thus compensate for French 'Combativeness and
Destructiveness'. The writer concludes by identifying himself as a 'disciple'
of
Franz J GallGall, Franz Joseph
(1758–1828)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> and
Johann C
SpurzheimSpurzheim, Johann Christoph
(1776–1832)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>.
Meteorology, Astronomy, Light, Superstition, War, Telegraphy,
Magnetism, Education, Electricity, Psychology
Begins by noting the rarity of seeing 'the heavens a-blaze / Of late on
starry nights, / With green and crimson rays' and that some 'wiseacres'
imagined this to be a 'dire' portent of the burning of Paris. Notes that the
northern lights made 'feeble folk afraid', 'telegraphs derange' with 'Magnetic
currents', and 'crowds stare [...] with fear of change'. Considers that 'A
happy man is he' who knows the 'sources and the springs' of 'seeming marvels',
unlike the 'clown', who is alarmed when a meteor 'shines or shoots'.
Societies, Mechanics, Astronomy, Human Development,
Sociology
Noting that one of the papers read at the recent
British
Association for the Advancement of ScienceBritish Association for the Advancement of Science
CloseView the register entry >> meeting was on 'the
Earth's Eccentricity' (a reference to
Wallace 1871bWallace, Alfred
Russel 1871b. 'On a Diagram of the Earth's Eccentricity and the
Precession of the Equinoxes, illustrating their Relation to Geological Climate
and the Rate of Organic Change', Report of the Fortieth Meeting of the
British Association for the Advancement of Science, Held at Liverpool in
September 1870, Notes and Abstracts of Miscellaneous Communications to the
Sections, 89
CloseView the register entry >>), suggests
that the next meeting of the
Social
Science CongressSocial Science Congress
CloseView the register entry >> will feature a paper on 'the Earth Inhabitant's
Eccentricity'.
Reporting that 'the spirits of Spiritualism [...] are still rapping away',
although making 'little noise outside of spiritual "circles"', argues that
spirits 'never will come into Court, or allow themselves to be brought to book
by any crucial test'. Distinguishes between 'the nature of things spiritual'
and 'things natural' and believes there is a 'corresponding difference between
Spiritualists and Philosophers'. The latter 'have no familiar spirits of the
disembodied kind' although their 'familiarity' with 'distilled' spirits is
'sometimes rather too thick'; the former, according to an extract in the
Medium and
DaybreakMedium and Daybreak
(1870–95)
Waterloo Directory
CloseView the register entry >>, are 'almost everywhere [...] staunch teetotallers'.
Concludes that the teetotaller and spiritualist share the same 'mental
condition or temperament' but points out that, given the number of
'communications' from the spirits of eminent individuals received at
séances, 'Dipsomania and Teetotalism, combined as it is with
Spiritualism, are extremes which sometimes appear to meet on the plane of
delirium tremens'.
Begins with several quotations from eminent people—including
William Pitt (1st Earl of
Chatham)Pitt, William, first Earl of Chatham ('Pitt the
Elder')
(1708–78)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>,
Richard B
SheridanSheridan, Richard Brinsley
(1751–1816)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, and
Philip D Stanhope
(4th Earl of Chesterfield)Stanhope, Philip Dormer, 4th Earl of
Chesterfield
(1694–1773)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>—praising the study of statistics.
Contends that it 'hardly needs this accumulated weight of unimpeachable
testimony, and the unanimous verdict of history, society, and posterity' to
'confirm [...] that in Statistics a man possesses the surest solace in
misfortune or on a wet morning'. Presents a long list of topics for statistical
analysis, including, for example, the dimensions of a column containing all the
eggs that have been consumed since their use as an article of food was first
entered at
Stationers'
HallStationers' Hall
CloseView the register entry >>. Considers that such questions captivate people of all ages
'and constitute an ample qualification for the Fellowship of the
Statistical SocietyRoyal Statistical Society
CloseView the register entry >>'. Contrasts the
lasting interest of statistics with the fading appeal of such delights as the
'flavour of wine' and 'literary renown'. Concludes by counselling the reader to
become 'a statistician, and you will ensure the respect of all the people in
your neighbourhood, and live to an advanced age'.
Responds to an extract from an 'American journalist' reporting that
scientific men have recently discovered that tobacco smoking will cause death
in 'one hundred and sixty-seven years'. Thinks this hint is 'premature' and
points out that Mr Punch has been smoking for thirty years but has marked in a
diary for 2007 his intention to reduce his smoking.
Discusses a report of a recent meeting of the
Perthshire Society of Natural
SciencePerthshire Society of Natural Science
CloseView the register entry >> which featured papers by
John SadlerSadler, John
(1837–82)
WBI CloseView the register entry >> on
Perthshire flora and
Francis B W
WhiteWhite, Francis Buchanan White
(1842–94)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> on 'Sugaring for Moths', and which ended with members eating
different species of funguses, each described with its abstruse technical name,
'cooked in almost every conceivable manner'. Notes the distinction made by
'modern mycologists and mycophagists' between boletus and fungus, and explains
that although many funguses are edible, 'few Britons dare venture upon any but
the Common Mushroom'. Suggests that this may be due to their fear of 'injury'
when discussing such 'crackjaw names' as those listed in the report. Explains
some of the 'trivial' names given to funguses other than the common mushroom,
but points out that most people call them toadstools. Concludes by advising Mr
Punch to enjoy eating the Boletus edulis fungus, which, despite its
name, is a delicacy.
Suggests that the effects of the recent aurora borealis on telegraph cables
may account for a garbled report, telegraphed from Lille, asserting that a
French balloonist who landed behind Prussian lines was obliged to 'burn his
dispatches and fly through Belgium'. Puzzled by the fact that the Prussians did
not 'secure his dispatches' and take him prisoner, suggests that the balloon
might have fallen without the aeronaut, who flew through the air to
Belgium.
Physiology, Medical Treatment, Human Development, Quackery
Discusses an advertisement for a 'remarkable physiological discovery'
purporting to help 'short persons [...] increase in Height and Symmetry'. Notes
the plethora of advertised remedies for getting rid of bodily imperfections,
but points out that this advertisement is from a United States naval captain
who, for the price of a 'stamp directed envelope', will instruct those who are
'troubled with shortness of stature'. Suggests that another 'physiological
discovery' still to be made is how to grow shorter and anticipates that an
'American philanthropist' will soon supply an appropriate remedy.
Medical Practitioners, Language, Surgery, Hospitals,
Patronage
Discusses a report in
The TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> of
the 'Prince of Tour and Taxis'—a reference to
Prince
Maximilian KarlMaximilian Karl, Prince of Thurn und Taxis
(1802–71)
WBI CloseView the register entry >> of Thurn und Taxis—who is 'for ever looking
about the hospitals' of Paris. Noting that surgical practice includes
procedures known as 'tour de maitre' and 'taxis', suggests that the prince
might be 'an illustrious Surgeon' whose name embodies his eminence in 'a truly
noble science'.
Reports that a simpleton, young Chesney Rolleston, who is 'not scientific',
has 'heard so much' of the 'Aurora' and its causes, that he is 'utterly
weary of the phenomenon, and thinks it ought to be called the Aurora
Boreallus'. Notes that his 'AURORA'—evidently his
female partner—'is quite of a different description'.
Surprised that Liebig's 'Extract' is 'one of the articles most abundantly
supplied to our ambulances at the seat of war', because the French have had a
'superabundance' of unreliable articles owing to the activities of 'the
journalists and
GAMBETTAGambetta, Léon Michel
(1838–82)
CBD CloseView the register entry >>'.
Urges readers to vote for
Elizabeth
GarrettAnderson (née Garrett), Elizabeth
(1836–1917)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>,
Maria G GreyGrey, Maria Georgina
(1816–1906)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, and
Emily DaviesDavies, (Sarah) Emily
(1830–1921)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> who
are standing for election to the
London School
BoardLondon School Board
CloseView the register entry >>. Explains that the duties of the board include settling the
cost of school fees and compelling parents to send their children to
school—duties which Mr Punch thinks is eminently 'woman's work'.
Emphasises that Garrett will also 'add sound medical knowledge, and can advise
on all sanatory questions connected with schools' and thus be 'invaluable' to
the board. Adds that Garrett and the other ladies 'profess no "strong-minded
women's" doctrines, but those which all rational men would teach'.
Shows two ladies dressed for a ball, conversing outside the ballroom.
Augusta compliments Ada on her 'sweet head-dress' and asks where she bought it.
Ada replies: 'It's quite new dear. It only arrived to-day from Paris in a
balloon, or by balloon-post'.
Portraying Russia as a bear, describes how the bear was wounded by Britain
'fifteen years since' (a reference to the Crimean War) but now, 'Bruin's wounds
have healed, / His fangs and claws have grown again; / The fur, once from red
gashes peeled, / Has grown o'er scars that still remain', and he feels
'hankerings for the Turkey brood'. This refers to the Russian government's
imminent breach of the Treaty of Paris (1856), which prohibited its occupation
of the Black Sea region. Describes how the attempts of the bear to break free
are thwarted by the sleepy 'British Lion', 'A poor, old, toothless, fangless
brute' who insists that 'Turkey's his friend' and 'doesn't fight to save his
friends'. The British lion is wakened by the bear's attempt to escape, but is
complacent, pointing to the chain around its neck. The chain symbolises the old
'accounts' that bruin still has to 'square' with the 'Eagles of Austria,
Italy', and 'Dame Turkey', and the poem concludes with the British lion's
assurances that the bear is not yet loose.
Following
Anon, '"Not Loose Yet"', Punch, 59 (1870), 222 shows the Russian bear trying to
chew through a rope that ties it to a wall. Nearby stands the British lion
relishing the sight of the bear being tethered. The specific constraint on
Russia is indicated by a large wooden block (that prevents the rope from
slipping) labelled 'Treaty of 1856'—a reference to the post-Crimean war
settlement in which Russia agreed to surrender territory at the mouth of the
Danube and to the Black Sea being neutral territory.
Notes that in Paris donkey meat sells for more than horse-meat and is judged
to be as much of a delicacy as veal. Considers the taste of donkey meat and
veal remarkably similar, and notes that 'Calf and Ass, as applied to certain
kind of person, are convertible terms'.
Noting the 'cleverness of certain calculating boys', discusses the
mathematical skill of 'many girls', appealing to the example of a 'young lady
who, within five minutes of her entering a ball-room, can calculate the cost of
every toilette present, down to the minutest article comprised in it'. Goes on
to describe other aspects of her astonishing abilities to calculate such
quantities as 'how many yards of muslin, silk or satin are contained in every
dress', and 'how many times MISS SKIMPLE must
have worn that coral wreath'.
Notes a correspondent's observation in
The TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> of
house-martens flying in the High Streeet of Great Marlow, Buckinghamshire.
Reminds the author of 'late birds' who remain at parties till early in the
morning.
Discusses a letter in the
Morning
PostMorning Post and Daily Advertising Pamphlet
(1772–1900+)
Waterloo Directory
CloseView the register entry >> from a female correspondent who suggested that Parisians
might fight the Prussian army by setting upon them 'all the wild animals of the
Jardin
des PlantesJardin des Plantes, Paris CloseView the register entry >>'. Points out that 'no man can wonder that' such wild
animals would 'most likely turn their tails and attack their proprietors the
Parisians', but considers it a 'happy thing' for nations to fight each other
with 'savage and ferocious beasts'.
Education, Politics, Medical Practitioners, Gender,
Spiritualism
The subtitle reports that the letters from Horace Walpole to 'Sir Horace
Mann' have been given to Punch by its 'private spiritual medium'.
Walpole tells Mann that he has been electing a school board (a reference to the
recent elections to the
London School
BoardLondon School Board
CloseView the register entry >>), one member of which is 'a delightful lady, a friend of
mine, and a Doctor of Medicine' who 'headed everybody by a terrific majority'.
He presents some verses written about this woman, who proves to be
Elizabeth
GarrettAnderson (née Garrett), Elizabeth
(1836–1917)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>.
Shows an 'intelligent' policeman standing in front of three tourists (a man
and two women). With his thumb he gestures towards a large statue, explaining
that 'This monument is for a countryman o' ma ain—Jeems WattWatt, James
(1736–1819)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>, the inventor o'
steam'.
Begins by noting
Thomas H
Huxley'sHuxley, Thomas Henry
(1825–95)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> series of lectures to women on science and art, given in
South Kensington. Presents an extract from the lecture on 'Physiography' (which
was published 'in a newspaper') describing the denudation of the Thames basin.
Huxley predicts that the 'surface of Britain would everywhere be washed down to
a plain level with the sea in less than 5,000,000 years'. The writer is alarmed
by how old the world will get 'if it lasts long enough' and notes how
'terrible' it is 'even now'. Considering Huxley's estimates of the age of the
earth to be reliable, argues that 'poets and other writers' will have to stop
referring to 'Mother Earth', because it 'makes out the earth to be an old
woman': 'no woman, young or old, ever tells her age' but Huxley has calculated
the age of the earth to be 'some millions of years at least'. Laments the
prospect of Britain becoming a 'plain old thing' in 5,000,000 years, but points
out that it is surprising that Britain 'still preserves any beauty at all, what
with the tall chimneys, and one horrid object and another'. Concludes by
praising Huxley's lectures as 'so interesting' and in a postscript the
author expresses her fondness for 'mental food'.
Shows a 'pretty, but Scientific governess' and her companion standing before
a group of miners who relax outside a counting house. The governess asks them
if she can 'obtain a specimen of this mine' but one of the miners replies that
'this ere's a worked-out mine, and us three's the only specimen's left. At your
'umble service, Miss, I'm sure'.
Begins by acknowledging that steam, electricity, and chemistry have 'worked
many wonders and that it was 'hoped they'd much conduce to the advancement of
Society'. Praises the fact that photography has effected 'many faithful
likenesses', that 'lovely woman is learning Physiography', and that 'We've all
sort of conveniences, and comforts, and facilities'. Ends by noting that
'Successive wars and bloodshed, upon land and upon ocean / Have been immensely
furthered by our means of locomotion, / Cheap Press, magnetic telegraph, and
rapid information', and hopes 'we derive more profit from extended education'
(a reference to
William E
Forster'sForster, William Edward
(1818–86)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> Education Act).
Discusses a letter that the aeronaut,
Wilfrid de
FonvielleFonvielle, Wilfrid de
(b. 1828)
WBI CloseView the register entry >>, sent to
The TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>.
Fonvielle boasts that Prussian gunfire directed at the balloon did not thwart
its ascent. However, Punch stresses the danger of firing at a balloon
above a certain height, since it might be out of range of the gunners while
they are still within the range of the aeronaut, who can drop grape-shot on
them from a great height.
Education, Industry, Telegraphy, Language, Physical Geography,
Mathematics, Class
The author reflects on the recent school board elections and asks 'what
guarantee the Ratepayers have that those they select to be Guardians of the
ignorant and untaught, are themselves fairly acquainted with the ordinary
branches of knowledge'. Worries that the candidates for seats on school boards
are inadequately qualified and adds that he suspects that 'ignorance rages
amongst the middle and higher as well as the lower classes'. Admits that he
cannot do anything about the boards that have already been elected but hopes
that in future
William E
ForsterForster, William Edward
(1818–86)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> will insist that board members are appointed after giving
satisfactory answers to 'a few easy, simple questions'. Presents a 'specimen
paper' and expresses his interest in hearing from Mr Punch or Forster
(Vice-President of the
Committee of Council on
EducationCommittee of Council on Education
CloseView the register entry >>) whether the answers support his contention regarding the
knowledge of those implementing Forster's Education Act. The questions include
giving the date of birth of
Isaac NewtonNewton, Sir Isaac
(1642–1727)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>,
providing a short account of various manufacturing processes, explaining the
operation of the electric telegraph, defining various scientific terms, and
locating the position of a number of geographical and engineering features.
Believes the 'realm of Nature' has been influenced by 'our artificial state
of society', owing to a 'monthly history of the weather' article in
The TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>
describing a 'conventional black cloud'.
Shows a line of dirty tramps slouching against a wall outside a police
station. A policeman picks on one 'obtrusive tramp', asks him why he's 'shoving
himself in before these poor people out o' your turn', and tells him that
unless he stands back he 'shall have such a wash'.
Gender, Morality, Human Development, Animal Behaviour
Discusses a debate on married women's property at the
Victoria Discussion SocietyVictoria Discussion Society
CloseView the register entry >>.
Agrees with the argument of one participant,
Mr HoskynsHoskyns, Mr
(fl. 1870)
PU1/59/24/4 CloseView the register entry >>, that
'husbands should treat their wives as equal human beings', but points out that
chivalrous behaviour by men reinforces the differences between husbands and
wives. Punch considers such etiquette 'right' and that 'Persons of the
ruder sex' who often remark that 'Woman [...] is the inferior animal' can be
challenged with the argument that 'Yes [...] but she is the superior human
being'.
In a letter from Horace Walpole to 'Sir Horace Mann', given to Punch
by its 'private spiritual medium', it is reported that the 'Eclipse
philosophers' have 'gone forth to seize the precious two minutes'—a
reference to the solar eclipse expedition of 1870. Suspects that the
philosophers' wives have gone with them to 'dust up the sun and moon and make
them fit for inspection', but refuses to give himself a headache trying to
understand the purpose of the expedition. Explains that he told a little girl
that the reason why the sun and moon are round was because if they were square
'their corners might have been knocked off in eclipses'. He claims that the
'Government dawdled terribly in giving assistance which the astronomers
required', and praises the great 'zeal and sense' of the American astronomers
who 'seldom talk wisely, and never act foolishly'. Later notes an 'astronomical
talk' given by a geologist, Sir Wrock Tapper, at the house of a 'vulgar' woman
Miss V——. Explains that the lecturer offered to 'fetch a
spectroscope', but Miss V—— refused, stressing that 'she hated
ghosts and all their belongings'. The author adds that he has heard that the
polariscope 'reveals whether light be original or borrowed' and wishes such an
instrument could be 'invented for the benefit of a book critic'.
The first illustration, in the top right-hand corner of the page, shows two
bored clerks in an office, one of whom leans over his desk and reflects rays of
sunlight off a mirror onto the street below. The caption invites the reader to
'Look down to the corner on the left, for the object of a scientific process'.
The second illustration, in the bottom left-hand corner of the page, shows that
the clerk is reflecting the light onto the face of a woman in a busy
thoroughfare, who is blinded by it.
Discusses
Thomas H
Huxley'sHuxley, Thomas Henry
(1825–95)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> tenth lecture on 'Physiography', delivered 'for the
improvement of the female mind at South Kensington' (a version of which was
published as
Huxley 1877Huxley, Thomas
Henry 1877. Physiography: An Introduction to the Study of
Nature, London: Macmillan and Co.
CloseView the register entry >>). Notes that
Huxley asked his audience to reflect that animals native to Britain could also
be found on the Continent, including the badger, which was not fond of swimming
and was now almost extinct. Punch laments the decline of the badger and
explains that it has been 'improved off the face of the British earth, under
the name of vermin'. Points out that the badger 'does no damage whatsoever' but
destroys 'real vermin'. Contrasts the fox and the badger, explaining that the
reason why the former is almost extinct and the latter still flourishes is
because members of
ParliamentHouses of Parliament
CloseView the register entry >> keep foxes alive to pursue
the 'noble sport' of fox-hunting, but consider badger-baiting 'cruelty to
animals'.
Notes that a memorial, 'complaining of the admission of ladies to the
classes of certain teachers in the School of Surgery, signed by sixty-six
medical students, has been presented to the
Royal College of Surgeons,
EdinburghRoyal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
CloseView the register entry >>'. Reports that the signatories consider the presence of
women to arouse 'various feelings which tend to distract the attention' from
'important subjects of study'.
Metallurgy, Mining, Economic Geology, Cultural Geography
Reports that 'Our iron manufacturers [...] are looking for supplies of the
ore in different countries', including the
Arigna MinesArigna Mines, Ireland CloseView the register entry >>,
near Galway, which once offered 'good prospect of success, but "had to be
abandoned from the hostile attitude of the neighbouring population"'. Claims
that this shows how 'Paddy [...] has always opposed the exportation of his
pigs'.
Military Technology, Metallurgy, Political Economy
Notes from recent 'Scientific Jottings' that tests on new bronze field guns
cast for India show their unreliability. Chastises the author of the report for
not realizing that readers would know that brass is inferior to iron and that
it was chosen for cheapness.
Steamships, Military Technology, Accidents, Controversy,
Politics
A discussion of the conflict within the
AdmiraltyAdmiralty
CloseView the register entry >> following
the wreck of the turret ironclad, HMS Captain. Begins by noting the
vitriolic exchanges between the First Lord of the Admiralty,
Hugh C E
ChildersChilders, Hugh Culling Eardley
(1827–96)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, and the government's chief ship designer,
Edward J ReedReed, Sir Edward James
(1830–1906)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>.
Suggests that the only clear conclusion from the 'minutes and replies' is that
the sea-lords and 'their constructors' are to blame. Alluding to Reed's
unpopularity at the Admiralty, notes that he 'rose on his chief' and that since
the Admiralty would not 'lean' on him they 'pierced their hand'. The outcome of
this disagreement was the loss of the ship. Laments the huge cost of the wreck
in terms of money and lives. Ponders the question, 'What odds at whose door
heaviest blame should lie?'. Concludes by insisting that 'all the blame rests
on you all'.
Begins by noting the usefulness of phrenological 'nomenclature',
irrespective of the truth or falsity of its 'physiognomical part'. Proceeds to
discuss a speech by Ayrton, the Chief Commissioner of the
Metropolitan Board of WorksMetropolitan Board of Works
CloseView the register entry >>,
delivered at the opening of the new
General Post
OfficeGeneral Post Office
CloseView the register entry >>. In his address Ayrton emphasized that the building was
designed for 'public convenience and utility' rather than to cater to 'ideas of
fancy or taste'. Punch believes that, 'Phrenologically considered', this
is 'tantamount' to Ayrton admitting that he is 'deficient in Constructiveness
and Ideality', his 'Acquisitiveness is very large' and his 'Self-Esteem also
greatly preponderat[es]' over his 'sense of beauty and predilection for
building'. Argues that Ayrton only cares for 'sensible men' or those 'whose
Acquisitiveness, like his own, exceeds their Constructiveness and
Ideality'.
War, Societies, Politics, Universities, Cultural Geography,
Nationalism, Race, Religion, Religious Authority, Natural Law, Evolution, Human
Development, Animal Behaviour, Military Technology, Political Economy
Begins with an extract claiming that the pro-rector of
University of GöttingenUniversity of Göttingen
CloseView the register entry >>,
Heinrich W
DoveDove, Heinrich Wilhelm
(1803–79)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>, has replied to an appeal by
Royal Irish
AcademyRoyal Irish Academy
CloseView the register entry >> and
Trinity
College, DublinTrinity College, Dublin CloseView the register entry >> asking 'the various learned bodies throughout the
world' to form a 'monster protest against the threatened destruction of the
scientific and art treasures of Paris by the prosecution of the siege'. The
poem mocks Dove's hostile and overtly nationalistic reply to this proposal to
protect French culture from the ravages of the Franco-Prussian war. Most of the
stanzas are inspired by extracts from a report of Dove's speech, which are
quoted in footnotes. The poet claims that Dove urged other countries to follow
Germany because it is the 'Earth's light' and points out in a footnote Dove's
plea that the 'German people' have always been 'seeking to realise
PARACELSUS'SParacelsus (Theophrastus Philippus Aureolus Bombastus
von Hohenheim)
(1493–1541)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> proud
remark—"English, French, Italians, follow me, not I you"'. The poem
continues to urge that Germany is on the side of the just, the University of
Göttingen being the upholder of 'Heaven's law' whose preservation will
cause the earth to thank the university. Because England favoured 'shop and
peace work' instead of military action against breachers of the peace, the
Germans had to 'ordeal' the battle. (276) Draws a contrast between the Germans
and all other forces in the conflict: following Dove's remark that
Göttingen's students had to 'contend with African semi-savages, or the
collected rabble of
GaribaldianGaribaldi, Giuseppe
(1807–82)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> adventurers', the poem
mockingly contrasts 'German Geist 'gainst French Ape-dom!' and
denigrates the 'Turcos and Garibaldian crew'. The poem notes that the
starvation of peasants and Parisians is due to their refusal to yield to the
'wise rule' of Göttingen University, and complains that 'fighting thus
till all is blue' is keeping the university's students from their
'books'—a reference to Dove's complaint that 'German science already
mourns among the fallen heroes several distinguished savants, and a large
number of hopeful youths'. Dove is then shown telling John Bull to continue to
'keep thyself to thyself' and not to interfere with its pursuit of 'Heaven's
work', and as telling the English that the best that the learned societies can
do is to 'pitch into your own rulers' and stop them from breaching the
'principle of neutrality' by selling arms to France that are used to attack the
University of Göttingen. Dove admits that Brother Jonathan (the United
States of America) 'sells still more' arms to Germany and asserts 'to please
him I'll bully you', even though Göttingen University does not enjoy
tackling two foes. The poem concludes with Dove relishing Russia's use of
German Krupp guns in its war with England and maintaining that what counts as
wrong in John Bull is 'right in U- / Niversity of Göttingen'. (279)
Punch, 59 (1870), 279.
Cigarette Papers. No. VII—My Military Acquaintance Smoked
Out
[7/7]
Describing how his 'military acquaintance', Pipkin, points to 'some lady'
and instead of giving a 'thrilling tale' about her, 'simply' winks and shakes
his head 'in an ambiguous manner'. Likens this knowing gesture to the
'ambiguous manner in which Hamlet anticipated his friends would assume
when keeping the celebrated Ghost Secret'. Speculates that 'PROFESSOR
PEPPERPepper, John Henry
(1821–1900)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> once made similar remarks to
MR.
DICKSDircks, Henry
(1806–73)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> when the "Spectral Illusion" was first
introduced to the public'—an allusion to the 'secret' mechanism of the
stage illusion invented by Pepper and Dircks.