Politics, Government, Telegraphy, Pollution, Sanitation, Public
Health
Reports that an announcement was made in the
House of
CommonsHouse of Commons
CloseView the register entry >> that 'all the Telegraphs had been bought by the
Government', and later notes
Austen H
Layard'sLayard, Sir Austen Henry
(1817–94)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> proposal to 'cleanse the Serpentine, at the bottom of which
is an abominable mess, the result of years of now discontinued drainage'
(2).
Pharmaceuticals, Medical Treatment, Quackery, Commerce
Discusses a
Morning
PostMorning Post and Daily Advertising Pamphlet
(1772–1900+)
Waterloo Directory
CloseView the register entry >> advertisement for 'Milk of Cucumbers' (a tonic for
'rendering the skin fair') and 'American Pick-me-up Bitters'. Believes the
former utlizes a similar process to that enunciated 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 >>—the cucumbers
'absorbing the solar rays' so as to prevent facial blemishes. Suggests a simple
alternative to this treatment and speculates on the intended consumers of both
products.
Upholds the need for Faraday to have a statue; he is a 'Philosopher' who
ought to have one 'if anyone ought'. Justifies this argument by claiming that
'Nobody, for a long time, has adorned life with more discoveries ministering to
its uses' than Faraday, including such discoveries as 'The manufactures of
steel and glass, electro-telegraphy, and the magneto-electric illumination of
lighthouses'. Suggests that just as the names of the battles of military heroes
are inscribed on their monuments, so Faraday's should be emblazoned with
'Researches, Theory of Induction, Course of Electric Currents,
Magneto-Electricity, Diamagnetism, Liquefaction and Solidification of Gases,
Conservation of Force, Chemistry of a Candle'. Stresses the importance of the
last, likening Faraday himself to a bright candle who illuminated electricity
and 'turned magnetism into electricity, and electricity into light'. Notes that
France has named a Parisian street after him and notes that
Prince EdwardEdward 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 >>
is leading the movement to build a Faraday statue.
Health, Disease, Class, Sanitation, Human Development, Gender,
Patronage
Noting the usually pleasant nature of garden parties, describes 'parties
which are still more pleasant things', namely those where poor children are
allowed to play and enjoy the fresh air. Notes that during the previous eight
summers 'one Society' has made this possible for 'some thousands of poor
children' at less than a 'half-penny a head'. Stresses how 'great a pleasure
may be given with a very little money' and praises the
Ladies'
Sanitary AssociationLadies' National Association for the Diffusion of Sanitary Knowledge
CloseView the register entry >> for enabling this to happen. Concludes by
inviting financial donations to the association.
Punch, 57 (1869), 16.
[Private Rickshaw at the Wimbledon Shooting Contest]
Medical Practitioners, Gender, Politics, Government, Religion,
Religious Authorities
This illustration shows Nurse Canterbury (the Archbishop of Canterbury,
Archibald C
TaitTait, Archibald Campbell
(1811–82)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>) presenting a baby, labelled 'Irish ChurchChurch of Ireland
CloseView the register entry >> Bill',
to Mrs Prime Minister and her assistant (William E GladstoneGladstone, William Ewart
(1809–98)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> and
John BrightBright, John
(1811–89)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>
respectively). The nurse explains that she has taken 'the greatest care of 'im'
and hopes they will 'think 'im grow'd'. Mrs Prime Minister denies that the
child is hers or looks like her. This plays on the fact that Tait had amended
Gladstone's original Irish Church Disestablishment Bill (which had been
rejected by the
House of LordsHouse of Lords
CloseView the register entry >>
and Tait himself in 1868) in order to make it more acceptable to the Irish
clergy and to both Liberals and Tories.
Shows a somewhat distraught-looking woman playing a piano and singing a song
that refers to the toxic substances she has applied to her body (notably
'Bismuthive Cream' on her brow and 'Belladonna' in her eye) in order to make
her more attractive to a suitor.
Politics, Government, Medical Practitioners, Medical
Treatment
Likening Gladstone to a medical practitioner, this song describes the
reactions of the Irish 'Orange Boys' savouring the prospect of reconstructing
the
Church of
IrelandChurch of Ireland
CloseView the register entry >> after it has been disestablished and thus 'released from
State control'. They praise Dr Gladstone for his 'pills' which excel 'All the
pills / For Ireland's ills'. Stresses that the disestablishment of the Church
means that it is no longer a perpetual blister. Describes the ways in which
they will now banish various religious groups from Ireland (including 'Each
heretic, / And all free-thinkers', and 'Ritualists'), and concludes by praising
'gentle surgeon, DOCTOR GLADSTONE', for
creating religious 'Free Trade' and thus the conditions for reconciling the
Irish.
Mental Illness, Spiritualism, Medical Practitioners, Medical
Treatment, Heterodoxy, Vaccination, Utilitarianism, Class, Quackery
Begins by identifying spiritualists as 'Persons of education, out of
Colney Hatch
[Asylum]Colney Hatch Asylum
CloseView the register entry >>'. Recounts that a surgeon recalled that 'in the early days
of vaccination', some people swore that people who had been vaccinated had
developed 'cowhorns' on their heads. Suggests that there are some 'very
sensible' people who might believe this claim, and identifies two such
individuals from a recent report in the
British Medical JournalBritish Medical Journal
(1857–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>.
Presents an extract from the periodical which describes how two guardians of
the
Croydon
Poor Law UnionCroydon Poor Law Union
CloseView the register entry >> refused to vaccinate workhouse children because they
believed this caused the 'itch' associated with small pox. Points out that the
symptoms of the disease, however, occur 'in a great many Workhouses'.
Ironically suggests that since the Guardians are 'wise men [...] their idea of
the consequence of vaccination is to be respected'. Proceeds to a second
extract describing the ineptitude of poor-law guardians in medical matters.
This concerns the
Holyhead
Poor Law UnionHolyhead Poor Law Union
CloseView the register entry >>, whose guardians objected to the proposal of the
medical officer,
Mr WalthewWalthew, Mr
(fl. 1869)
PU1/57/2/8 CloseView the register entry >>, that
the dislocated shoulder-bone of a pauper should have been treated months
earlier. Considers that the guardians at the Croydon and Holyhead Poor Law
Unions are 'Medical Dissenters' in the manner the 'great original advertiser of
Universal Medicine',
James MorisonMorison, James
(1770–1840)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>
(this is possibly an ironic reflection on the fact that the poor-law unions
clearly did not provide medicine for all). Concludes that while 'Freedom of
medical conscience [...] ought to be respected much more than it has been by a
too scientific legislature', medical dissenters have often upheld ridiculous
claims. Urges ratepayers to decide whether they wish their poor-law unions to
be 'directed by Medical Dissenters'.
Responds to the argument that pigeon-shooting is 'not more cruel than
game-shooting' and is therefore not objectionable. Agrees that pigeon-shooting
is as sportsman-like as game-shooting if the latter means 'battue', and points
out that so many other blood sports (including cock-fighting and bear-baiting)
are far more cruel than pigeon-shooting even though they are considered
acceptable sports. Concludes by suggesting that for these reasons 'the Roughs'
have grounds for reviving the old English sport of pigeon-shooting and thus be
on par with 'the Swells'.
Begins by agreeing with the opinion of
The TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> that
the government purchase of telegraph lines will reduce the cost of telegrams
and thus diminish the burden of letter writing. Suggests that letter-writing
might be altogether superseded by telegrams, with lovers exchanging messages by
the 'sixpenny wire' rather than the 'penny post'. Warns that this will also
mean a 'condensation' of messages and demonstrates, using a prosaic love-letter
recently read in a court at Reading, how letters could be abridged for
telegraphic purposes. Discusses how other communications including 'Erotic
telegrams' and the 'Germanised telegram' will be worded.
Notes
William Hope'sHope, William
(fl. 1835)
WBI CloseView the register entry >>
belief in the potential utility and commercial value of metropolitan sewage.
Suggests that the
Metropolitan Board of WorksMetropolitan Board of Works
CloseView the register entry >>
probably shares this belief given its habit of poisoning Barking residents with
Thames sewage. Hopes the profit that might result from utilizing sewage will
'prove to be real' and that, 'by the chemistry of nature', that sewage might
turn into 'bread, potatoes, and pasture'.
Telegraphy, Technology, Electricity, Instruments, Progress,
Internationalism, Commerce, War, Morality, Religion
Begins by reflecting on 'Another tie', or 'Another path of lightning', laid
between the Old and New Worlds, and turns to the rapid progress of the cable
ship and of the world which so 'spins down the stream of thought and act, /
That what was last year's marvel is this year's familiar fact'. Stresses what a
'small thing' it now seems to communicate across the Atlantic 'By the twinkle
of a lamp [a possible reference to the mirror galvanometer used in telegraphic
signalling], and the quiver of a wire'. Wonders whether the telegraph will aid
or hinder 'good' and international harmony, but is confident that the invention
will do more than help commerce, and that it has 'conquered' time and space.
Concludes by noting that the destinies of men are ruled by a 'mysterious
power', and that submarine cables conceal 'The secrets of the future, and the
ends of good and ill'.
Military Technology, Education, Human Development, Crime
Begins by presenting Admiral Punch's question to the
AdmiraltyAdmiralty
CloseView the register entry >> board
concerning the use 'of keeping afloat a lot of obsolete old hulks at some
half-dozen of our dockyards'. Notes that Admiral Punch thinks 'thousands of
pounds yearly' would be saved by destroying them, and also suggests that a
better use would be as 'Homes for Homeless Children'. Explains that Admiral
Punch has reached this conclusion after inspecting the decommissioned
HMS
ChicesterHMS Chichester CloseView the register entry >>, a ship kept afloat 'by voluntary charity' and
which shows how financing floating schools can reduce the number of children
who turn to crime, and thus reduce the costs of prisons.
Describes a trip to the
Crystal
PalaceCrystal Palace
CloseView the register entry >> on St Swithun's day, where the writer's pursuits included
riding a velocipede, enjoying the 'Camera Obscura' and draughts of cream soda
'manufactured by a wheel', being introduced to the 'automaton Chess Player' and
its 'checkered career', visiting the 'rosary and geraniumry', studying the 'raw
material in the Technological Museum', and observing a display of artificial
asteroids and of magnesium lights.
Points out that 'of all the animals in the
Zoological GardensZoological Society of London —Gardens
CloseView the register entry >>, the lion
is the most saving and careful in his habits'. Thinks this explains why the
lion 'looks sharply after the denkeeping expenses' incurred by the lioness.
Utilitarianism, Class, Health, Disease, Quackery, Morality, Medical
Practitioners, Medical Treatment, Government
An attack on the new guardians of the
St
Pancras Poor Law UnionSt Pancras Poor Law Union
CloseView the register entry >>, condemning them for 'Bringing Local
Self-Government into contempt at a most alarming rate' and for threatening to
'bring back the bad old time'. Notes their greed, their use of 'under-paid
officers', and their killing of paupers. Points out that the new guardians hold
'All medical men' to be 'humbugs' and consider 'all paupers' ailments feints',
while they 'have the sick-wards cleared, double-quick' whatever the cost to
patients' lives. They 'soon find a Doctor who'll make short work of paupers and
their complaints'. Adds that they refuse to have inquests into paupers' deaths,
oppose centralisation, and punish the master of the workhouse who 'splits' on
them.
Begins by noting the decline in number of admirers of originality and then
discusses a
Journal
OfficielGazette Nationale; ou, le Moniteur Universel
(1789–1810)
Moniteur Universel
(1811–68)
Journal Officiel de l'Empire Français
(1869–70)
Journal Officiel de la République
Français
(1870–1900+)
BUCOP CloseView the register entry >> article on the French Atlantic telegraph, an article
anticipating that the telegraph will improve the friendship between France and
the United States.
The author, a velocipede rider, compares himself favourably with a 'man who
doth bestride' a 'gallant steed', emphasizing that the velocipede rider does
not need to 'stop to bait', pay road tolls, or keep a paddock. Adds that the
velocipede, unlike a horse, 'never jibs, never shies', 'runs away', stumbles
'as he flies' or is seized with 'fits of kicking', and that the machine does
not need a whip or rein.
Begins by describing the new bayonet to be supplied to British soliders,
which will allow them to devour animals and cut wood. Presents an extract from
a report noting that the new design of bayonet reflects both peaceful and
offensive purposes. Punch notes that 'Arms of precision are abolishing
hand-to-hand combats' and have 'semi-civilised' the bayonet. Proceeds to wonder
whether the 'excessive destructiveness of improved guns' will lead to the
'destruction of war itself', a trend possibly evident in the conversion of
bayonets for more 'pacific' purposes. Concludes by suggesting that the new
bayonet could be used as a surgical instrument.
Government, Politics, Animal Husbandry, Cruelty, Railways, Military
Technology
Notes discussion on the cattle bill, which prevents animals from being
starved for longer than thirty hours while confined to railway carts. Notes
that
Charles J
EllicottEllicott, Charles John
(1819–1905)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, Bishop of Gloucester and Bristol, 'pleaded for twelve
hours' for the measure, but points out that it would inconvenience the 'railway
people'. Later discusses the 'Fortifications Debate'. (56)
Discusses
William G
Armstrong'sArmstrong, Sir William George, Baron
Armstrong of Cragside
(1810–1900)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> 'Newcastle address' in which he claimed that guns were
superior in strength to armour. Notes Armstrong's suggestion that given the
weakness of armour plating, it is best to design ships so that enemy shots pass
right through them 'leaving a between-decks full of the death-dealing splinters
behind it'. Believes this is an 'old story', insofar as ships' armour has
become so thick that the vessels have become difficult to sail and manoeuvre,
and concludes by praising Armstrong for reaching a 'common sense conclusion'
that Punch 'came to [...] long ago'.
Responds to news of the radical politician
Peter A Taylor'sTaylor, Peter Alfred
(1819–91)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>
attack on the government's bill for the 'completion of our inchoate dockyard
defences'.
Similar to
George L P B Du Maurier, 'Specimens Not Yet Included in the Collection at
Regent's Park', Punch, 56 (1869), 258, this illustration shows a series of
strange animals that have developed anatomical features associated with human
society. These include 'Mandoline Turtles' (whose necks and undersides have
turned into the body of a mandolin), 'The Railway Buffalo (Bos
Buffer-Cornutus)' which sports railway buffers for horns, and 'Itchysaurus
Attacked by Phleasyosauri', in which a antediluvian reptile (a relative of the
ichthyosaurus) is attacked by tiny fleas.
Explains that Punch informed a correspondent that the
Ray SocietyRay Society
CloseView the register entry >> is 'a
Society for Spectrum Analysis' which 'means an association for the
investigation of Ghost Stories'.
Notes discussion of the Education (Scotland) Bill, including
Lyon Playfair'sPlayfair, Sir Lyon, 1st Baron Playfair of St
Andrews
(1818–98)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>
view that 'everybody in Scotland wished for a Religious Education', a view that
Punch challenges (66). Also notes that
Queen VictoriaVictoria, Queen of the United Kingdom of Great
Britain and Ireland, and Empress of India
(1819–1901)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>
was advised to mention the 'Cattle Act' and the Electric Telegraphs Act in her
speech before
ParliamentHouses of Parliament
CloseView the register entry >>.
Begins by presenting an extract from a
Spiritual
MagazineSpiritual Magazine
(1860–77)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> article that rebuts Punch's recent criticism
of spirit photography. The extract ridicules Punch's dismissal of the
possibility of photographing objects that are invisible to the eye, and points
out that the '[photographic] plate is more sensitive than the eye', appealing
to the 'evidences' of the 'magnetic or odic lights, which
BARON
REICHENBACHReichenbach, Karl (or Carl) Ludwig
()1788–1869
DSB CloseView the register entry >> photographed'. Punch denies that
Reichenbach's work supports the possibility of photographing ghosts, and quotes
a passage in which Reichenbach states that his researches support the existence
of light emanating from magnets. Proceeds to note that the Spiritual
Magazine has adopted the argument that, while photographs of séance
'sitters' are produced from 'rays of daylight', those of the ghosts depend on
the 'odic light' emitted by the spectre which is 'too faint to affect the eye'.
Notes that while 'spirits' insist on darkness in séances, they appear
not to need darkness for being photographed. Wonders why spirits can do without
darkness given that this is a reasonable condition for a ghost shining by odic
light. Concludes that one solution to this apparent contradiction in the
conditions for observing spirits is that 'their photography [...] is
moonshine'.
Describes what he considers to be 'an uncommon instance of the "Sagacity in
a Dog"'. Explains that he owns a Skye terrier that responds to an unknown rap
on the front door with violent barking, and replies to familiar raps with an
identifiable subdued barking. The author boasts that he can identify regular
callers from the nature of his dog's bark but that one day he made a mistake in
interpretation: he thought his dog's bark signified the regular water-carrier
when it was a man bringing alcohol from the public house (the dog apparently
displayed more hostility to this caller than the water-carrier).
Given the recent hot weather, envies the polar bear for being 'polarised at
[its] own Pole'. Notes that other bears have a pole which they can climb, but
that however hard they might try to ascend the pole 'They'd into bear's grease
melt and run / With such an effort this hot day'.
Notes that
Benjamin W
RichardsonRichardson, Benjamin Ward
(1828–96)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> has 'invented a knife that cuts so fast that nobody can
feel it', but points out that this is not original since 'People in society cut
each other every day' and do not feel it.
Animal Development, Nutrition, Railways, Transport
Discusses a
StandardStandard
(1827–60)
Evening Standard
(1860–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> report
on some 'articles, principally metallic, lately found inside of a dead horse'.
Notes that owing to the large number of nails found in the horse, some
'offenders' might suggest that the animal might 'have grown into a locomotive,
or iron horse'.
Domestic Economy, Human Development, Animal Behaviour, Animal
Development, Evolution, Race
Begins by considering the advantages of replacing his 'servant girl' with
'the Missing Link / Which negro binds to monkey'. However, explains that while
the anthropoid ape could fulfil this role, the orang-utan, chimpanzee, and
gorilla could not. Identifies the 'Missing Link' as a species 'beneath the
Sable Moor' and 'Quashee' (a personification of the 'negro' race), but above
'Jocko' (a chimpanzee). Explains the advantages of such an employee: it could
ably complete such tasks as cleaning knives and waiting at the table, be able
to 'execute our orders' and sustain a 'licking' like a dog, it could be
dismissed without the employee being its 'debtor', it would 'Ne'er trouble you
for wages', and it would never attract any 'followers' and thus cause
complicated 'relations'. Concludes by noting that while 'The nigger is a sort
of man', the author wants a slave who will not be made 'a man and a brother'
and has sense without a soul 'behind it'.
A series of illustrations in which letters of the alphabet are represented
by social and professional types. For example, the letter 'D' is represented by
a cross-sectional view of street, in which a man walks past a dentist's shop
where the dentist stands over an empty chair whilst wielding a huge pair of
pliers. The caption reveals that 'D is my dentist. He likes me. He's wont to be
always at home when I call—so I don't'.
Noting how 'Correspondents' are 'continually complaining' of the lateness
and dangers of railways, blames accidents on the 'want of common sense' on the
part of railway directors. Argues that drastically reducing the number of
guards on trains is 'false economy' because it will increase the chance of
accidents and thus damages to be paid out by railway firms. Proposes an 'Act of
ParliamentHouses of Parliament
CloseView the register entry >>' which forbids guards to work
long hours and makes directors 'personally liable' for injuries sustained in
railway accidents.
Begins with an extract announcing the imminent publication of the 'Report of
the Porcupine Expedition' (a possible reference to
Carpenter 1869Carpenter, William
Benjamin 1869. 'Preliminary Report of the Scientific Exploration of
the Deep-Sea in H.M. Surveying-Vessel "Porcupine"', Proceedings of the Royal
Society of London, 18, 397–492
CloseView the register entry >>).
Mistaking the name of the ship on this expedition,
HMS
PorcupineHMS Porcupine CloseView the register entry >>, for the animal, questions the need for an
expedition in search of porcupines when there are plenty in the
Zoological Society GardensZoological Society of London —Gardens
CloseView the register entry >>.
Draws attention to one of the scientists on the expedition,
William B
CarpenterCarpenter, William Benjamin
(1813–85)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>, who is searching 'warm and cold areas' of Stornoway.
Punch questions whether porcupines are found in such warm and cold areas
as kitchens.
Notes that a 'Medical Correspondent' of
The TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> has
warned of the soporific effects of 'the gold currency' on parliamentary
sessions. Considers the correspondent's views on gold currency, sleep, and
narcotics to be 'extraordinary', and wonders whether he would 'administer opium
or hyoscyamus' in cases of coma or tendency to somnolence.
Begins with an extract from a report on the
British
Association for the Advancement of ScienceBritish Association for the Advancement of Science
CloseView the register entry >> meeting at Exeter
announcing that
John PhillipsPhillips, John
(1800–74)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>
will 'deliver a discourse on Vesuvius'. Playing on the word 'on', considers it
'impossible' that Phillips could be in Exeter and Vesuvius, unless 'he has the
power of being in two places at once. Suggests that this 'singular phenomenon'
might be mentioned by the next association president,
Thomas H
HuxleyHuxley, Thomas Henry
(1825–95)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>, and congratulates Huxley for being elected to this
position.
Agriculture, Disease, Temperance, Medical Treatment
Discusses a report describing the effectiveness of sulphur in curbing vine
disease in the provinces of Lisbon, suggesting that 'anti-liquor Leagues'
should award prizes to the 'duffer' who disgusts people with wine by
identifying 'the vine disease with a human malady wherein sulphur is a
specific'.
Military Technology, Steamships, Gender, Nationalism
Written from the perspective of a somewhat illiterate sailor, this discusses
the decision of the lords of the
AdmiraltyAdmiralty
CloseView the register entry >> to reject
the
HMS
FavouriteHMS Favourite CloseView the register entry >> (a screw armour-plated corvette) in favour of the
HMS
InconstantHMS Inconstant CloseView the register entry >>. Comparing the vessels to female dancing
partners, the author notes that the Inconstant 'is a lively young craft'
with a 'thin waist', and is not surprised that the lords of the Admiralty
preferred it. Proceeds to discuss the coal-powered 'Revolvers', and believes
'smoke jacks' will revolutionise 'marrytime warfare' as much as the 'Spinning
Jenny' has revolutionised cloth production. In a postscript he anticipates that
Britannia will rule the waves with a 'rod of iron' rather than her 'black-lead
pencil'.
Societies, Geology, Palaeontology, Astronomy, Agriculture, Political
Economy, Ethnology, Human Development, Botany, Ornithology, Anatomy,
Physiology
Sonnet ten, 'Exeter, August, 1869', reflects on the meeting of the
British
Association for the Advancement of ScienceBritish Association for the Advancement of Science
CloseView the register entry >>. Explains that the
'Devonian group' (evoking the name of a geological period) has now 'broken up'
and its '"Stars" have vanished from the West'. Adds that the savants no longer
debate such questions as 'agricultural labourers' wants', 'carbonif'rous
labyryntodonts', 'man and his primaeval ways', 'the sun, the stars, the worlds
in distant skies', the 'epiglotis, and the tidal wave', and anticipates the
meeting of the association in 1870, 'HUXLEY'SHuxley, Thomas Henry
(1825–95)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> year'.
Discusses an appeal by
Louisa TwiningTwining, Louisa
(1820–1912)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>
on behalf of
St Luke's Home for Incurable
WomenSt Luke's Home for Incurable Women
CloseView the register entry >>. Describes some of the ways in which women are deemed to be
'incurable', including their tendency to be 'incurable chatterboxes', their
'incurably extravagant' tastes, and their inability to be cured of 'their
whims'. However, notes that the trajectory of 'crinolinomania' demonstrates
that women's maladies may subside. Concludes by noting how much Twining has
received in subscriptions, and explains that supporting her cause will allow
incurable diseases to be 'palliated'.
Begins by noting that with the cessation of the 'lively, pithy, and concise
debates of the [parliamentary] Session [...] the British Public, betake
ourselves for intellectual recreation to the fields of science'. Emphasises
that this requires us to exercise 'our observant faculties on swarms of
ladybirds' and employ 'our reasoning powers in arguments about the origin of
species, particularly those relative to the dispute touching the human
pedigree' and our descent from anthropoid apes. Suggests that those who pose
scientific questions at this time of year will be contributing to the 'public
stock of harmless amusement', and will not be bores. Accordingly, turns to the
'divers reviews' of
Memoir ofJohn Conolly,
M.D.Conolly, John
(1794–1866)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>Clark, James 1869.
A Memoir of John
Conolly, M.D., D.C.L.: Comprising a Sketch of the Treatment
of the Insane in Europe and America, London: J. Murray
CloseView the register entry >>, the 'rational and reforming mad doctor' who
'succeeded in abolishing the system of mechanical restraint at
HanwellCounty Lunatic Asylum, Hanwell CloseView the register entry >>'. Proceeds to discuss
James DevilleDeville, James
(1777–1846)
DNBS CloseView the register entry >>,
the 'gas-fitter' and phrenologist who argued that 'order was maintained at
Hanwell without force' by classifying inmates according to 'the craniological
conformation of their heads'. Suggests that if this was the case then it
constitutes 'a very considerable reply' to the claim that phrenology is humbug.
Contests that 'phrenology is not all humbug if available for the government of
lunatics' and believes it is not a superstition even if it is a 'mistake'.
Begins with an extract from the
AthenaeumAthenaeum
(1828–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>
describing a 'remarkable manuscript' containing 'an interesting account',
written by
Isaac NewtonNewton, Sir Isaac
(1642–1727)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> to
Martin FolkesFolkes, Martin
(1690–1754)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, of
the 'discovery' of gravitation, an account that makes no mention of the 'fall
of an apple' having been the source of the discovery. The author of the
following letter identifies himself as a 'lover of old traditions and stories'
and expresses his dismay at the discovery of this manuscript. He hopes that
other myths about Newton will not subsequently be shattered. However, he
insists that he is 'prepared now for any heavy blow', including the shattering
of such myths as
James WattWatt, James
(1736–1819)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> 'watching
the steam issuing from the family tea-kettle' (the alleged inspiration for his
steam-engine). Concludes by urging that 'We ought to be ashamed of our
credulity, and get rid of these old wives' fables without delay'.
Following a suggestion in the
Pall Mall
GazettePall Mall Gazette
(1865–1900+)
Waterloo Directory
CloseView the register entry >> that pointers should be 'shoed', anticipates that the
'progress of agriculture' will lead to even more advanced techniques including
'steam cart-horses', the 'steam-dog', and hunting conducted with 'steam guns'
and 'steam pointers'.
Animal Development, Evolution, Spiritualism, Human Species,
Degeneration, Descent, Religious Authority, Pollution, Industry,
Environmentalism, Chemistry, Force, Progress, Commerce, Aesthetics, Human
Development, Mental Illness, Amusement, Psychology, Race, Morality
Begins by inviting readers to 'Hear a Gorilla', which, like a
'sprite-possessed, / A Medium-ape', tells the story of his descent from
'Ancient Man'—a reversal of the assumed descent of man from apes. The
gorilla begins by describing an idyllic 'Island of the Sea' where his first
ancestors lived, a race that were 'the chiefest of the human kind' but whose
'last degenerate race bred ours'. Explains how a pair of these degenerate
humans clung 'to a floating tree' when the isle was 'whelmed' and proceeds to
describe the gradual degeneration of the race and the catastrophe that struck
the island. Blames 'Material Progress' for the destruction of the beautiful
buildings and landscape, and for the other ways in which this 'Island's beauty
and its joy' was overwhelmed. He laments that science 'put chemic and mechanic
force' into 'sordid hands', and thus made 'creatures covetous and coarse' and
consume 'too fast'. The consequences of these developments also included
'close-clustered houses' encroaching on 'the commons and the downs', the
pollution of pure rivers by 'slush of factories, and manure', the decline of
'Art, architecture, letters', the starvation of genius, the displacement of
drama by 'Buffooneries and sensation plays', and the disappearance of 'the
higher powers of thought' and 'Justice, Faith, Charity, and Hope'. He
emphasizes that his fathers liked each other 'as Chinese' and lived 'by
competitive / Examination' (a possible reference to the 'survival of the
fittest' and to the
Civil ServiceCivil Service
CloseView the register entry >>
examinations), but gradually turned into apes 'by degrees': their crowns
'slowly sank' and their foreheads 'sloped and shrank' backwards, their jaws
advanced, and they developed shag hair, 'eye-teeth turned fangs', and rear
'feet / Of climbing hands'. He concludes by noting how 'Chaos came' (the
sinking of the once-idyllic island) and 'Ocean's foam / Bore the Gorillas to
their home', which is presumably a reference to Africa.
Notes an 'agitation' which has 'been got up against Vaccination' and that Mr
Punch 'rejoices to say that the movement [against Vaccination] has received its
death blow' from Beales who, wanting to 'stamp the agitation as utterly
ludicrous', has joined it.
Depicts a scene at an evening party. In the foreground, a pianist captures
the attention of a number of ladies, all of whom appear to have left a room
shown in the background. The latter room is completely deserted, except for two
intellectual gentlemen who sit looking dejected. The caption ('Literature,
Science, and Music at an Evening Party—Total Defeat of the Two Former')
indicates that the ladies prefer the company of the pianist to that of the
intellectuals who spout 'Literature' and 'Science'.
Responds to news that 'Sixteen sheep have been killed by lightning'. Ponders
the significance of this story, given that so many sheep are killed each year
and that few need to be reminded 'that lightning is but as mechanical as the
action of the fusee that kindles the Havannah of the cynic'. Argues that by
dying this way, these sheep have been spared the cruel fate of their fellow
creatures (including the butcher's 'finishing blade'), but that far from being
'out of created space', their 'transmuted entity' will provide the materials
from which 'daisies and buttercups grow'.
Describes events at the
Worcester Music FestivalWorcester Music Festival [Three Choirs Festival]
CloseView the register entry >> of 1869,
notably the rehearsals and performance of
Arthur S
Sullivan'sSullivan, Sir Arthur Seymour
(1842–1900)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> oratorio The Prodigal Son. The author draws
attention to the fact that the organ was run from a cylinder powered by
'several batteries', there being a 'chain' connecting 'the notes with the
pipes' and another linking the 'organist with the notes, and a third the
organist with the cylinder'. Explains that to play at the correct tempo, the
organist 'receives the exact number of shocks which force[s] him to play
precisely in the time, and the notes which the composer wishes'.
While the composer 'turns the cylinder, and winds up the organist', the author
himself was allowed to operate the cylinder, although he was so 'excited' with
the music that he turned the machine too fast thus causing the cylinder to
crack, the organist to be thrown in the air, and the organ to play 'five
Oratorios all at once'. He laments that the force of the electric currents
was so great that 'no one could venture near' him, and the organ manufacturers
were whirled around when they tried to fix the instrument. He concludes this
part of his report by resolving to investigate the matter.
The initial letter forms part of an illustration showing a herd of oxen
streaming past a tree, one of the oxen attempting to fell the tree. Hanging on
the tree's trunk and branches are three frightened young boys. The writer
laments the brutal conditions suffered by cattle on being transported from
Rotterdam, condemning the fact that cattle are 'bullied', catch diseases 'by
cramming', and are 'goaded and hounded on to the shore'. Calls on the clerk of
the
Privy
CouncilPrivy Council Office
CloseView the register entry >>,
Arthur HelpsHelps, Sir Arthur
(1813–75)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, to
ensure that those who issue these 'brutal commands' are punished. Hopes to see
the end of cattle being beaten and to see 'gentle smiles' irradiating the
'shepherd's countenance as he drives his lambkins to the new emporium'. He also
wishes to see drovers using gentler language as they drive their charges
through the streets.
Discusses the topical question of whether tight-lacing is injurious to
health. Insists that it is not so for women, arguing that woman is made 'more
wonderfully and more fearfully' than man and that while she is 'always ailing',
her ailments are caused by 'over-exertion and other varieties of
self-sacrifice'. Believes that tight-lacing would be 'uncomfortable' for men,
because they breathe 'partly from the pectoral muscles which expand the ribs'
and would be constrained by tight-lacing. Adds that tight-laced men would
suffer a variety of abdominal complaints caused by pressure on his organs.
Compares this situation with that of women. Explains that women breath
independently of their pectoral muscles and have a more 'plastic organisation',
both of which enable them to withstand tight-lacing. Concludes by warning of
the dangers (some fatal) of overly tight women's garments, but points out that
'lacing has evidently no consequences which prevent women from wearing stays as
tight as they think pretty'.
Shows a Scottish highlander standing on some rocks near a salmon-infested
river. He holds a large tube that has fired a long fishing line, on the end of
which is a struggling salmon. The caption explains that, according to the
Inverness
CourierInverness Courier
(1817–1900+)
COPAC CloseView the register entry >>, a new rocket gun has been invented 'with which a
distinguished sportsman (the inventor) has done great execution on the salmon
in the Highland rivers when they won't take a fly'.
Praises
Angela G
Burdett-CouttsBurdett-Coutts, Angela Georgina, 1st
Baroness
(1814–1906)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> for her 'proposal to make kindness to dumb creatures
a branch of education'. Challenges the notion that people whose education is
deficient in this regard are from 'the bottom of the social scale', emphasizing
that the 'higher classes' who shoot pigeons are no better than the yokels who
enjoy 'forcing a pig through a hole which is too small for him'. Suggests that
Burdett-Coutt's proposal would teach the
Gun ClubGun Club
CloseView the register entry >> 'how not to
shoot', and teach its members only to kill birds outright, rather than allowing
birds to die from their shot wounds.
Exploiting the parallels between political corruption and the cattle plague,
reports that the 'epidemic' continues, 'particularly in the Eastern and Western
Counties', and explains that the disease is caused by 'Acarus scabiei',
which causes 'an itching palm' that can only be relieved by 'Banker's golden
ointment'—i.e. money. Hopes this 'disease of the body politic' will be
stamped out by the government, which can be achieved by stopping millionaires
with 'political aspirations' from touching 'the Polls' as well as disinfecting
the 'Booths to which the Foulborough Cattle are driven'. Explains that the
disease 'originate[s] in morbid acquisitiveness'.
Responding to debate concerning the cruelty inflicted on cattle during their
transportation to England, this illustration shows an ox standing in front of a
herd of cattle. It has collapsed forwards and is about to be struck by a drover
with a long stick. The ox utters the words of the title of the illustration,
parodying the motto of the anti-slavery movement, 'Am I not a Man and a
Brother?'. Here the ox takes the part of the oppressed black slave.
Describes the narrator's encounter with Cazell, a critical fellow who, when
visiting the narrator's house, asks him about the building's drainage system.
At this moment the narrator is visited by Dr Balsam, who has come to see his
wife and baby; the doctor tells him that he understood that the 'Inspector of
Nuisances' had visited and urges him to clean out his pigsty. Cazell surmises
that a foul odour that he has been smelling derives from the sty and urges the
narrator to disinfect the place and prevent an outbreak of fever.
The author's opinion of mathematics as a 'steady and decorous science' has
been 'completely shaken' by the title of one of the papers given at the recent
British
Association for the Advancement of ScienceBritish Association for the Advancement of Science
CloseView the register entry >> meeting—'On Conic
Osculation' (a version of which was published as
Newman 1870Newman, F. W.
1870. 'On Conic Osculation', Report of the Thirty-Ninth Meeting of the
British Association for the Advancement of Science held at Exeter in August
1869, Notes and Abstracts of Miscellaneous Communications to the Sections,
13–14
CloseView the register entry >>). Suggests that
this implies intimate relations between geometrical figures. Also suggests that
another paper presented to the association ('On Initial Life'; a version of
which was published as
Wake 1870Wake, Charles
Staniland 1870. 'Initial Life', Report of the Thirty-Ninth
Meeting of the British Association for the Advancement of Science; Held at
Exeter in August 1889, Notes and Miscellaneous Communications to the
Sections, 151
CloseView the register entry >>) refers to 'those
strange advertisements which head the second column of the
TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>'.
Describes how a 'simpleton' recently sought a police magistrate court's
decision to compel a Highgate cemetery company to inscribe on his child's
tombstone 'Died from the mortal effects of vaccination', which was also the
verdict of a coroner's jury. Surmises that a coroner's jury would not be able
to understand medical evidence showing that the child died from a 'poisoned
wound, and not merely of plain puncture'. Urges that coroner's juries should
only be allowed to deliver verdicts on 'questions within their competence', and
not post hoc ergo propter hoc verdicts on a death following
vaccination. Praises the cemetery company for objecting to the inscription on
the tomb and thus for preventing 'prejudice against vaccination' which would
crowd the cemetery.
Addressed to Mr Punch, this poem is a response to
Anon, 'The Genealogy of the Gorilla; or, Can a Race Degenerate (Respectfully
Dedicated to the
British
Association)', Punch, 57 (1869), 102. The writer begins by warning Mr
Punch that the 'Medium Gorilla' has 'spun you / A yarn of lies, as to his
breed', and then invites him to read
Charles R
DarwinDarwin, Charles Robert
(1809–82)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> to learn about the 'millions of years [...] It took a Baboon
to develope / Monstrosity into a man'. Proceeds to his alternative history of
the development of man from monkeys and gorillas. This explains the long
history of how monkeys and gorillas developed the physical and cultural
attributes of humans: these include their creation of sparks for fire (after a
monkey 'was pounding / Some nuts with two stones in the dark), the invention of
a xylophone (after a Monkey 'Laid several sticks in a row'), the transformation
of simian 'jabber' to the 'language
MAX
MüLLERMax Müller, Friedrich
(1823–1900)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> describes', food rationing and brewing,
and the proliferation of 'Metaphysical apes', who inscribed 'abstract' ideas on
sand or bark and gradually bit off their tails, since they got in the way when
they were writing. Invites Mr Punch to 'admire how plastic is nature' because
the 'tail-hating' gorillas 'Had little gorillas without', and notes that such
'tailless' and 'brainless' gorillas still 'roam on the African shore', beasts
who believe they are the 'cream of the cream' of their species.
Attacks the
Morning
PostMorning Post and Daily Advertising Pamphlet
(1772–1900+)
Waterloo Directory
CloseView the register entry >> (which Punch regarded as its 'fashionable
contemporary') for publishing an article reporting the death of a young woman
from tight-lacing, a report which Punch thinks will terrify those 'dear girls
who take in such instructive journals as the
Englishwoman's Domestic
MagazineEnglishwoman's Domestic Magazine
(1852–90)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>'. The report states that the woman collapsed in a
park, and was examined by
Dr SmellieSmellie, Dr
(fl. 1869)
PU1/57/13/3 CloseView the register entry >> who
claimed that the cause of death was 'effusion of blood on the chest [...]
accelerated by compression of the chest' caused by tight-lacing. Notes that
this report will deter girls from tight-lacing, but suggests that girls have a
'propensity' to follow fashions regardless of consequences and will not
therefore be perturbed by the gruesome newspaper report.
Discusses predictions made by the 'Voice of the Stars' in the August 1869
issue of
Zadkiel's Monthly AlmanacZadkiel's Almanac and Herald of Astrology
(1836–1900+)
BUCOP CloseView the register entry >>.
Notes that his predictions for
Prince EdwardEdward 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 >>
and
Princess
AlexandraAlexandra [Princess Alexandra of Denmark]Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain
and Ireland, and the British dominions beyond the seas, and Empress of India, consort of Edward VII
(1844–1925)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> appear to have been confirmed, but points out that he did
not predict the illness of
Emperor
Napoleon IIINapoleon III, Emperor of France (originally
Louis Napoléon (Charles Louis Napoléon Bonaparte))
(1808–73)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> of France, a fact that Punch links to sinister
cunning on Napoleon's part.
Begins by pondering the problem of establishing the cause of powder-mill
explosions, a tragedy that witnesses rarely survive. Argues that one
explanation is suggested by a recent report in
The TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>,
which describes how workmen at one powder-mill were suspended for possessing
pipes and lucifer matches. Punch suggests that cautioning such workmen
against using pipes is useless given that they are 'idiotic as to the sense of
danger', and compares them to miners who 'light their tobacco' with
DavyDavy, Sir Humphry, Baronet
(1778–1829)
DSB
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> lamps, and who
are so 'tired of their lives' as to want to commit suicide.
Claims that the 'new London improvement' that reminds one of a submarine
cable is, according to a 'miserable Cockney', 'A vire ducked'. This is a
reference to the recently opened
Holborn
ViaductHolborn Viaduct
CloseView the register entry >>.
Responds to a report in the
British Medical JournalBritish Medical Journal
(1857–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> of a
dispute between staff and governors at
St
Bartholomew's HospitalSt Bartholomew's Hospital
CloseView the register entry >>. According to the report the staff
representative,
Dr MayoMayo, Dr
(fl. 1869)
PU1/57/13/8 CloseView the register entry >>, complained of
the excessive duties of a house physician, including the necessity of seeing
100 patients each hour every morning. Punch compares the physician who
despatches 'so many patients in so short a time' to 'the historical dog Billy,
celebrated for killing a hundred rats in five minutes'. Hopes this analogy will
prompt the governors of St Bartholomew's to expand their staff so that all
patients are adequately attended to.
Begins by pondering the 'pleasant' prospect that an English war with Prussia
and Germany is unlikely, but presents an extract from a recent 'leader' in
The TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> on
'The Cruise of the Lords of the
AdmiraltyAdmiralty
CloseView the register entry >>' (Anon 1869Anon. 1869. 'On the Cruise of the Lords of the Admiralty',
The Times, 28 September 1869, p. 6
CloseView the register entry >>), warning that if the English
fleet were to be called into action, it would soon be engulfed by such dense
smoke (from its guns) that both signals and enemy ships would become invisible.
Notes that the Germans invented gun-cotton and could use it to fire naval guns
without shrouding their own ships in smoke, whilst accurately firing on
smoke-shrouded English vessels.
Quotes from a correspondent in
The TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> the
assertion that the Dean of Carlisle,
Francis CloseClose, Francis
(1797–1882)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>,
was guilty of assuming that 'science must necessarily, and actually does, tend
to the subversion of the Christian religion' and that Christianity views
'scientific discovery' with 'contemptuous antagonism'. Thinks this shows that
'Extremes meet', noting the proximity of the evangelical Close's views to those
of
Pope Pius IXPius IX, Pope
(1792–1878)
CBD CloseView the register entry >>.
Discusses a report of a paper by
John BeddoeBeddoe, John
(1826–1911)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> presented
at the recent meeting of the
Anthropological SocietyAnthropological Society of London
CloseView the register entry >> (a version of
which was published as
Beddoe 1867–69Beddoe, John
1867–69. 'On the Stature and Bulk of Man in the British Isles',
Memoirs Read Before the Anthropological Society of London, 3,
384–573
CloseView the register entry >>).
Beddoe announced that he has discovered that the tallest men lived in upper
Galloway, the heaviest in Berwickshire, and the smallest 'among the
Spitalfields weavers'. Mocks the apparent uselessness of this information,
telling Beddoe that its own 'Special Commissioner' has furnished some equally
useless information, including the discovery that 'in Cornwall are the most men
who squint' and that in Herefordshire are 'the most men who never blow their
noses'.
Noting the 'alleged' new invention of a process for converting sewage into
gas, suggests that igniting the River Thames may be possible and profitable and
hopes that the sewage could be converted before it is deposited in the river,
thus reducing the high cost of gas in London.
Presents a series of extracts reporting on the recovery from illness of
Emperor
Napoleon IIINapoleon III, Emperor of France (originally
Louis Napoléon (Charles Louis Napoléon Bonaparte))
(1808–73)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> of France. They include details of the medical
treatment he received, including an opiate prescribed by his physician
Auguste J B
NélatonNélaton, Auguste Jean Baptiste
(1807–73)
WBI CloseView the register entry >>, and the therapeutic effect of saline and rural
breezes.
Natural History, Zoology, Museums, Ornithology, Hunting, Morality,
Crime, Politics, Government
Challenges the proposal to remove the collections of 'stuffed birds and
other zoological specimens' in the
British
MuseumBritish Museum
CloseView the register entry >> and store them elsewhere. Instead argues that the
collections should be 'destroyed' since natural historical objects are useless
and stuffed natural historical objects more so. As Britons have been
'abandoning British Birds to gradual extinction', 'British Ornithology', as
well as 'Natural History and Zoology', is 'utter bosh'. Notes that a recent
'writer' in
The TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>
lamented the decline in the number of birds of prey, a conclusion which the
author corroborates. Noting that birds of prey are slaughtered in the interests
of aristocratic poulterers, questions the use of stuffed birds of prey.
Concludes by calling on
ParliamentHouses of Parliament
CloseView the register entry >> to follow up its recent law
protecting sea-birds from hunters, with new legislation affording 'raptorial
birds some protection from the landed poulterers'.
Botany, Medical Treatment, Religion, Religious Authority
Noting that the 'Colchium autumnale, of repute for Gout, is now in
bloom', points out that it is 'flowering quite seasonably' and that like
another flower associated with spring, 'the wild Hyacinth', has 'unlooked-for
blowing in Paris' that has 'astonished the Ultramontanes'. This is a reference
to
Père
HyacintheHyacinthe, Père (properly Charles Loyson)
(1827–1912)
CBD CloseView the register entry >>, a popular Carmelite preacher, who, on 20 September 1869,
resigned his position after protesting against the doctrine of papal
infallibility and encroachments by the papacy.
Comments on a report in
The TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> of
an eye-witness account of the liquefaction of the blood of
St
JanuariusJanuarius, Saint (or San Gennaro)
(d. c. 305)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> in Naples. The witness stressed that the blood did not
froth (contrary to 'French writers on the miracle') or possess the colour of
blood, and that it moved altogether when it moved at all. Punch thinks
the blood is 'altogether a bubble'.
For the letter Z, Punch presents a 'zoophyte', whose 'heart's in his
head' and whose 'head's in his "tum!"'. The illustration shows a vaguely
human-looking zoophyte at the bottom of the sea, having a face in its abdomen,
a heart where its nose should be, and a stomach in its head.
Shows a woman standing on a pier overlooking the sea. Her bonnet, dress, and
two large transparent wings attached to her back give her the appearance of a
large wasp. In the background another woman wears a similar costume. The
caption suggests that 'wasp-waisted women' might adopt this costume 'with
advantage'.
Ancient Authorities, Gravity, Mechanics, Discovery,
Exploration
A series of dubious historical 'facts' including the claim that
PlatoPlato
(428–348/7 BC)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> 'invented the Laws of
Gravity' after which he never smiled, and that 'an American discovered
COLUMBUSColumbus, Christopher
(1451–1506)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> before
COLUMBUS discovered America'.
With a title parodying
Lewes 1862Lewes, George
Henry 1862. Studies in Animal Life, London: Smith, Elder and
Co.
CloseView the register entry >>, this illustration
shows a Victorian parlour in which four female domestic servants stand back in
terror at a tiny toad. The caption that this is 'The Common Toad (Bufo
disgustans)'.
Distinguishes 'two types' of this 'distemper', one being an 'epizoic among
milchcows in England', the other being the kissing by 'Romanists' of the foot
of the pope or of the toe of a statue in
St Peter's,
RomeSt Peter's, Rome CloseView the register entry >>. Warns that both are 'highly contagious', the religious form
being spread by various English Catholics.
Hunting, Ornithology, Cruelty, Government, Politics, Class
Discusses the proposal (spearheaded by
George C G F
BerkeleyBerkeley, George Charles Grantley Fitzhardinge
(1800–81)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>) to implement a gun tax 'to protect small birds from
hobble-de-hoys'. Relishes the possibility of a tax that would 'abate the
confiscation inflicted on a class under the name of Income-Tax'. Warns that
such a penalty would 'prevent poor boys and not rich' from shooting birds, and
that it would not prevent the
Gun ClubGun Club
CloseView the register entry >> from pursuing
its activities. Suggests that Berkeley's disgust of young boys who shoot birds
on Boxing Day is misplaced since such boys are no worse than gentlemen who
indulge in 'cover-shooting'. Concludes by insisting that small birds should be
protected 'like the sea-fowl'—a reference to a recent piece of government
legislation—and that cruelty should be prohibited rather than
licensed.
Health, Disease, Human Development, Sanitation, Medical
Practitioners
Describes the anxiety of narrator's wife respecting a disease he may have
caught from the pigs and chickens on his farm. She sends for a doctor who
examines their baby and discovers a 'new rash' on its body. The doctor advises
the family to go abroad for 'a change', a proposal with which the narrator
agrees because this will allow the 'Inspector' to rebuild his pigstys in a more
sanitary fashion. The narrator also describes his continued problems with
'rheumatics'.
Describes this time of year as one when 'Great flocks of rooks [...] Swarm
in the air and in the trees', 'cloud the sky with their rustling wings', and
caw until nightfall. Identifies the cause as the
Social
Science CongressSocial Science Congress
CloseView the register entry >>, whose members' 'annual jawing' matches 'with a
correspondent cawing'. However, notes that 'there's music in the raucous /
Cries uttered by the corvine caucus' and compares this to the boring reports of
the congress in the newspapers.
Mr. Punch's Syllabus. Comprising (or Embracing, if You Like) Thirty
Principal Errors under Which the Church of Rome is Labouring, with References
to the Authorities Confuting Such Errors. Respectfully Prepared in Return for
the List of Eighty Errors Imputed by H. H.
Pius the NinthPius IX, Pope
(1792–1878)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> to
the Educated World
Animal Husbandry, Disease, Nutrition, Utilitarianism, Human
Development, Health, Nutrition, Morality
Signed by the saint after whom a notorious London workhouse is named
(St Pancras Poor Law Union
WorkhouseSt Pancras Poor Law Union Workhouse
CloseView the register entry >>), this letter reminds poor-law guardians of the foot and
mouth epidemic which is 'now raging' among 'milch cows and feeding stock', an
epidemic that has raised the price of dairy of milk, cheese and butter. He also
reminds the guardians that the 'papers' may have informed them that the cruelty
inflicted on cattle 'during their conveyance both by sea and land carriage'
probably aggravates cattle plague and foot and mouth disease. Proceeds to tell
them that the quantity of meat which they can provide for their inmates
'amounts to a very few' ounces, but asks them that 'If we were heathens' or
cannibals we should be 'almost as anxious about the medical treatment of our
sick poor as we are about that of our diseased cattle'. This implies that,
since guardians are not heathens, they should take even better care of sick
paupers than animals.
Shows a husband and wife in bed, both of whom have been woken by a mouse.
The husband attempts to kill the mouse that appears to have run onto the
bedclothes. The caption states that the mouse is also known as 'Ridiculus
mus'.
Includes the 'fact[s]' that the 'scheme of tunnelling under the Atlantic is
not new' because it 'occurred to a gentleman some time ago, but he never
mentioned it, and the secret died with him', and that 'Dyeing was discovered by
the Syrians, and they dye'd in great numbers'.
Religious Authority, Religion, Progress, Scientific Practitioners,
Astronomy, Spectroscopy
This is a response to news of the imminent establishment of the
Œcumenical CouncilŒcumenical Council, Rome CloseView the register entry >>, a Roman Catholic assembly that would proclaim papal
infallibility on questions of morality and faith. Explains that
Pope Pius IXPius IX, Pope
(1792–1878)
CBD CloseView the register entry >>, is
having 'a little "at home"' where he and 'lots of old ladies will meet and talk
scandal, / And make of their neighbours' wrong-doings a handle'. Adds that the
errors 'on his Programme' are large enough to 'fill a 'bus'. Warns that 'the
Progress of Knowledge, with all of its fallacies, / From poor
GALILEOGalilei, Galileo
(1564–1642)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> to Spectrum
analysis—/ It's all at an end, the Philosopher's trade is, / The cry
being "Room for the elderly ladies"'.
Identifying herself as 'a young lady', the writer tells Mr Punch that she
has to tie herself as tightly as she can owing to the fashion for 'small
waists'. She complains that her stays are causing her headaches and other
pains, and corroborates 'what the doctors say' about the physiological
consequences of tight-lacing. Grumbles that her stays prevent her from enjoying
such activities as croquet and dancing, and criticises her maid for following
the fashion, thereby making herself too ill to work. She concludes miserably by
confessing that she would 'rather die than dress out of fashion'.
Medical Practitioners, Periodicals, Medical Treatment, Homeopathy,
Progress
Describes the narrator's visit to the doctor's surgery, an experience that
involves an excessively long wait in the waiting room, during which time he
manages to read several volumes of Punch. He finally manages to see the
doctor whose solution his rheumatic condition is for the author to travel
abroad, and to take baths and waters. The narrator notes that at this moment he
thought he should 'Pick up some medical notes' for the physiological portion of
his great work, Typical Developments, and accordingly, he discusses with
the doctor the application of 'Homeopathic theories' in 'Allopathic practice'.
The doctor agrees with the narrator's claim that the 'science of medicine' is
'in a state of change' and that the 'old practices [...] require readaptation
to the increasing knowledge of the present day'.
Noting the argument that the frequency of fatal railways accidents could be
reduced by adopting the 'block system', points out that railway companies still
employ the 'blockhead system'.
Contains some 'rare good news' for 'habitual smokers':
M ArmandArmand, M
(fl. 1869)
PU1/57/17/3 CloseView the register entry >> has
informed the
Académie des Sciences,
ParisAcadémie des Sciences, Paris CloseView the register entry >>, that 'common watercress' can be used to make a 'sure
antidote to nicotine'. The writer explains that his life has been 'made
miserable' by his friends and family trying to stop him from smoking, but
resolves that whenever he now buys tobacco he will also purchase some
watercress and thus be spared the fatal consequences of smoking.
Shows
Emperor
Napoleon IIINapoleon III, Emperor of France (originally
Louis Napoléon (Charles Louis Napoléon Bonaparte))
(1808–73)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> of France, dressed as a circus performer who traverses
a tight-rope on a velocipede. Represents his increasing difficulties with
political opposition to his regime (notably his unpopular policies on Italy and
Mexico, popular disillusionment with his economic policies and the
corresponding rise of socialism and communism). The tight-rope is marked
'Message of July'—a reference to the controversial speech made by
Napoleon announcing radical political changes, which prompted several
ministerial resignations. The wheels of his velocipede are marked 'personal
government' and 'representative government' and the ends of his balancing pole
are labelled 'repression' and 'concession', referring to political issues that
Napoleon was trying (but failing) to keep in the balance. Far below the
tight-rope lie jagged rocks shrouded in mist that contains the ominous message
'revolution', which threatened Napoleon's empire.
Hospitals, Medical Treatment, Medical Practitioners, Surgery,
Controversy, Disease
Suggests that St Bartholomew's Hospital, like
St
BartholomewBartholomew of Farne, Saint
(d. 1193)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> himself, is being 'flayed alive' by the discontented
doctors who work there. Considers this unsurprising given reports that patients
are being 'knocked off' at an alarming rate of 'one-thousand a-day on Monday
and Tuesday mornings' by a scanty and inexperienced staff. Argues that 'one
cannot wonder' that one of medical officers at the hospital (presumably
Dr MayoMayo, Dr
(fl. 1869)
PU1/57/13/8 CloseView the register entry >>) should have
'kicked under such a system', which has damaged the reputation of the hospital
and lowered the morale of physicians and surgeons. Concludes by insisting that
the 'flaying process' should continue until 'staff, time, and space' are no
longer abused, 'proper attention' is given to 'casual and out-patients', and
the hospital reforms its constitution.
Darwinism, Evolution, Human Species, Human Development, Sex, Descent,
Theory, Proof, Charlatanry, Religion, Religious Authority, Ancient
Authority
Draws Mr Punch's attention to a recent article in the
AcademyAcademy
(1869–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> (see
Anon, 'A New Work by Mr Darwin', Academy, 1 (1869–70), 15–16) announcing that
Charles R
DarwinDarwin, Charles Robert
(1809–82)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> will be applying the conclusion of his
Origin of SpeciesDarwin, 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 >> to
the human species. Presents an extract from the article describing the
importance of sexual selection in human evolution, but insists that
philosophers will be 'curious to see how Mr. Darwin traces his series of
zoological love-tales from Man through his immediate progenitors, the
anthropoid apes', to a 'Monad'—an ascent comprising 'milliards of
milliards' of 'grades or links'. Wonders whether Darwin can demonstrate one of
these links. Draws parallels between Darwin's 'theory of Development' and that
of 'DR. NEWMAN' (a reference to
John H Newman'sNewman, John Henry
(1801–90)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>Essay on the Development of
Christian DoctrineNewman, John
Henry 1845. An Essay on the Development of Christian
Doctrine, London: James Toovey
CloseView the register entry >>) asserting that they are 'incompatible' theories,
but that both 'require confirmation'. Similarly notes that both Darwin and
Pope Pius IXPius IX, Pope
(1792–1878)
CBD CloseView the register entry >> are
trying to 'establish Assumptions' (a reference to the basis of a scientific
argument and the doctrine of the assumption of the Virgin Mary), and that both
'appear to assume facts that have no foundations'. However, suggests that
Darwin, unlike representatives of the Roman Catholic Church, may be able to
prove his theory, and that he will send his book to Mr Punch who, like the
author, will be able to see how far human ancestry extends beyond Adam.
Introduces two specimens of 'Dutch industry' which Mr Punch's friends have
brought back from the recently opened
International Exhibition,
AmsterdamInternational Exhibition, Amsterdam CloseView the register entry >>. The first is an advertisement for 'chimical files',
which are claimed to relieve corns on the feet.
Considers the title of
Half-Hours with the
StarsProctor, Richard
Anthony 1869. Half-Hours with the Stars: A Plain and Easy Guide
to the Knowledge of the Constellations, Showing, in Twelve Maps, the Position
of the Principal Star-Groups Night After Night Throughout the Year, with
Introduction and a Separate Explanation of Each, London: R.
Hardwicke
CloseView the register entry >> to indicate that we are 'growing rather too playful with the
heavenly bodies' and anticipates the publication of similar titles including
'Spare Moments with the Aurora Borealis'.
Mesmerism, Psychology, Human Development, Gas Chemistry
Describes a party at the house of a character named Milburd, where the
narrator meets his friend Cazell, who spends his time smoothing down his
trousers and inspecting the results. This 'has evidently a mesmeric effect'
upon the narrator and other guests, and the narrator suggests that if Cazell
were to continue for 'two hours, he would probably become mesmerically
mechanical in his movement, and we should all be fixed staring at him in our
chairs'. The narrator makes a note that he must include mesmerism in his
'Typical Developments'. Later he ponders the question of how to 'draw
out' a chemist and more specifically, the behaviour of carbolic acid gas.
The signature to this letter may refer to
Angela G
Burdett-CouttsBurdett-Coutts, Angela Georgina, 1st
Baroness
(1814–1906)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, who believed that kindness to animals should be part
of national education. The author questions the writer of an article who
insists that 'ladies and gentlemen' still tolerate pigeon-shooting while the
'general public' is beginning to despise it. Argues that it is unlikely that
'ladies' view pigeon-shooting with anything but 'indignation, and disgust'.
Defines a range of common domestic creatures in terms of their troublesome
effects on human life. A man and a woman being shocked by a beetle squashed
under the man's shoe illustrates 'Black Beetle (Scarabaeus Explodans)', a man
reclining on a chaise longue and swatting a fly on his head illustrates
'The Fly (Musca Dementans)', a woman nagging her husband that he should not
have eaten a lobster for dinner represents 'The Lobster (Crustaceum Resurgens
Vindex)', a couple trying to catch a spider under a glass shows 'The Daddy
Longlegs (Paterfamilias Longricus), a groom, sporting a huge insect bite on his
nose while preparing for his wedding illustrates 'The Gnat (Culex
Disfigurans)', and an elderly lady gingerly approaching a bed with some tongs
depicts '(The —— (Unmentionable Norfolkienxe Hovardianum Insectum
Trium Literarum)'.
Measurement, Commerce, Charlatanry, Adulteration, Railways, Accidents,
Crime, Politics, Government
Begins by warning small 'chandlers and grocers' that the President of the
Board of Trade,
John BrightBright, John
(1811–89)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, 'hates
the scales that are untrue' but delights in 'Just weights', and has the power
to 'check' their 'knavish deeds' with a 'stringent Bill'. Emphasises that this
act will prosecute those 'Who sell by measures fraudulent, / Or falsify your
tea', and especially ' Railway folk' for conducting 'incomplete inquests' into
railway accidents and allowing trains to collide. Warns that 'The great no less
than small' will suffer from this and that 'neglect however gross' will be
dragged 'into day'.
Under the heading of 'Genius', claims that 'HUMBOLDTHumboldt, Alexander von (Friedrich Wilhelm
Heinrich Alexander von)
(1769–1859)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> insisted on
remaining in the cradle until he had finished his
KosmosHumboldt,
Alexander von 1845–62. Kosmos: Entwurf einer physischen
Weltbeschreibung, 5 vols, Stuttgart; Tübingen: Cotta
CloseView the register entry >>, a work of much labour and
extensive research'.
Shows a man shaving in front of a mirror. His chair has been adapted so that
as he shaves, he can use his feet to operate pedals which drive a pulley
connected to a rotary brush that sits on top of his head.
Following the recent opening of
Joseph Cubitt'sCubitt, Joseph
(1811–72)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>
new
Blackfriars
BridgeBlackfriars Bridge
CloseView the register entry >> this drama consists of an exchange between
Queen VictoriaVictoria, Queen of the United Kingdom of Great
Britain and Ireland, and Empress of India
(1819–1901)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>,
several 'Citizens', Samuel Johnson, and Joseph Cubitt. Cubitt explains that in
1759, when the
City of
LondonCorporation of London
CloseView the register entry >> 'determined to build a bridge at Blackfriars, many schemes
were laid before the authorities, one of them, I may observe, by the
illustrious
SMEATONSmeaton, John
(1724–92)
DSB CloseView the register entry >>', although the 'favoured
competitor was a young Scot, named
Robert MylneMylne, Robert
(1733–1811)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> who
proposed a bridge of nine elliptical arches'. Johnson then explains the ellipse
to some citizens, and Cubitt responds by explaining that Johnson was engaged in
a controversy with Mylne, the man of letters having 'great regard' for Mylne's
rival,
John GwynnGwynn (Gwyn or Gwynne), John
(bap. 1713–1786)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>. In the
midst of Johnson's pedantic comments on Cubitt's vocabulary and grammar, Cubitt
praises Johnson for his 'marvellous mastery' of a topic (bridge building)
foreign to his 'habitual investigations'. (190) The discussion then turns to
the foundations of the Pitt Bridge which originally spanned the River Thames at
Blackfriars, and which, according to Cubitt, was opened in November 1769. Queen
Victoria agrees that it is fitting that Johnson should witness the opening of a
bridge which has replaced the decaying and ruined bridge which he criticised,
although Johnson points out that he believed Mylne's bridge 'might have endured
many years longer, but for the removal of
Old London
BridgeLondon Bridge
CloseView the register entry >>, and the liberation of the vast flow of waters restricted by
those nineteen arches'. (193)
Shows a boy floating on a box on a river flowing down a street, the result
of a high tide. The caption claims that
Stephen M
SaxbySaxby, Stephen Martin
(1804–83)
WBI CloseView the register entry >>, the naval engineer who predicted this major storm, is 'right
at last'.
Engineering, Nationalism, Cultural Geography, Physical
Geography
Begins with an extract from the
Pall Mall
GazettePall Mall Gazette
(1865–1900+)
Waterloo Directory
CloseView the register entry >> describing a meeting of 'French and English
subscribers' to an 'international bridge' between England and France. The
highly nationalistic poem that follows condemns this project as 'base and
absurd' and describes its subscribers as 'traitors' who 'Would traverse our
girdle [the seas around the British Isles] with dry land'. After firmly
upholding the need to keep 'Great Britain an Island', explains that the
projectors believed a tunnel between England and France 'Would not have
destroyed insulation' but that a bridge would be a 'landway' between lands.
Concludes by asserting that Britannia should always be an island.
Medical Practitioners, Surgery, Education, Politics,
Government
Believes students at the London hospitals are like 'journalists in the great
gooseberry season' because, according to a correspondent in
The TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>,
they 'labour under a dearth of subjects'. Thinks this is reason for the Home
Secretary,
Henry A BruceBruce, Henry Austin, 1st Baron Aberdare
(1815–95)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, to
take measures to 'preserve the science of medicine, and enable surgeons to
obtain the knowledge which they require to perform operations'.
Begins by presenting the compliments of Father Nile to Mr Punch for the
'delightful way in which that gentleman depicted saucy Miss Britannia
discovering the Father among his rushes' (see
John Tenniel, 'Britannia Discovering the Source of the Nile', Punch, 44 (1863), [233]). Father Nile also wishes to inform
Mr Punch that, at the suggestion of
David
LivingstoneLivingstone, David
(1813–73)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, he has 'removed his head-quarters' to a region 'a few
degrees south of the Equator'. This refers to Livingstone's recent claims
regarding the source of the river.
Punch, 57 (1869), 197.
Good Chemical Preparation for Over-Beaten Bullocks
Discusses a report that female mortality in Paris has dropped since stays
went out of fashion, but that chignons have 'increased brain-fever nearly
seventy-three per cent'. Warns that small waists and large chignons, still
fashionable in London, are forms of 'fashionable suicide'. Laments that women
suffer in order to 'look killing' and presents an extract describing the
gruesome sources of hair used in chignons which Punch thinks explains
why this fashion accessory causes brain-fever.
Utilitarianism, Class, Health, Disease, Sanitation, Nutrition,
Pollution, Industry, Controversy, Periodicals, Hospitals, Medical
Practitioners, Medical Treatment, Education, Schools, Government,
Politics
Written from the perspective of a disreputable
St
Pancras Poor Law UnionSt Pancras Poor Law Union
CloseView the register entry >> guardian, this poem begins by questioning
the calls by newspapers and doctors to 'Give paupers full allowance of air'.
Points out that paupers do not know 'any differ' from 'stenches and stiflin''
and that they do not have the noses and feet to smell and feel their terrible
conditions. Defends the decision of St Pancras guardians to provide paupers
with a 'short allowance' of food, drink and air, insisting that 'the more of
'em we gets rid of / The lighter we makes the rate'. Notes that
Samuel SollySolly, Samuel
(1805–71)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> has
testified to the 'stinks' in the workhouse but insists that it would be folly
to follow Solly's advice because 'a vurk-'us must smell like a vurk-'us'.
Similarly, ridicules the diseases suffered by paupers on the grounds that
'they're a nasty, sarcy, / Discontented, pampered lot'. Criticises the chief
opponents of St Pancras poor-law guardians—including 'our doctors and
nusses', 'the
TimesThe Times
(1777–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >>,
PunchPunch
(1841–1900+)
Waterloo
Directory CloseView the register entry >> and the
Pall Mall
GazettePall Mall Gazette
(1865–1900+)
Waterloo Directory
CloseView the register entry >>—and scorns the
Poor Law BoardPoor Law Board
CloseView the register entry >>
for urging St Pancras guardians to 'spend rates on sick wards and schools'.
Concludes by denying that the guardians are a 'public scandal', and by
resolving to 'keep rates and paupers down', and to impeach
George J
GoschenGoschen, George Joachim, 1st Viscount Goschen
(1831–1907)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> (the President of the Poor Law Board) for his attacks on
them.
Begins by anticipating the 'new system of Telegraphs' that will shortly
'come into play'—a reference to the government purchase of Britain's land
telegraphs, which lowered the cost of sending telegrams. Expects 'every Man and
Woman to do his or her Duty' and to understand that with telegrams costing
'Twenty Words for a shilling', they will have to 'study the art of condensation
of language'. Appreciating the difficulty that 'many worthy people' have in
condensing their messages, Mr Punch thinks 'these long evenings' can be
'profitably spent in acquiring Electric Literature', and presents a short drama
in which a family discuss ways of shortening messages.
Discusses a recent inquest held by
Edwin
LankesterLankester, Edwin
(1814–74)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> into the death of a pauper who died at the infirmary of
the notorious
St Pancras Poor Law Union
WorkhouseSt Pancras Poor Law Union Workhouse
CloseView the register entry >>. Presents an extract from the evidence given by the
St Thomas's
HospitalSt Thomas's Hospital
CloseView the register entry >> surgeon
Samuel SollySolly, Samuel
(1805–71)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> who
considered the workhouse to be one of the foulest places he had ever inspected
and that the foul stench pervading the building was due to poor ventilation.
Surprised to learn that a coroner's jury 'believed this disposition' and
declared that the pauper had died from consumption accelerated by poor
ventilation. Suggests that this verdict owed much to the supporting testimony
of
Robert B
CarterCarter, Robert Brudenell
(1828–1918)
WBI CloseView the register entry >>, but points out that if the jurors had 'yielded to the
impulse of their parochial feelings' they would have discarded the evidence of
two distinguished medical men. Adds that this verdict will 'persuade the
public' that the St Pancras guardians are wrong to complain of Lankester's
relentless inquests into their paupers.
Written from the perspective of a bachelor 'Pensive Protoplasm' who tells
his beloved Vesta of his birth in 'some pre-historic chasm', and that he and
she are nothing more than hydrogen, oxygen, carbon, and nitrogen. He also
reminds her that animacules, lizard's eggs, and other creatures in 'stagnant
water' are their siblings, and that she should not turn her 'coquettish head
aside' from ancestors who are nothing to 'boast about'. He tries to console her
by explaining that philosophers agree that the origin of protoplasm is 'outside
their trade', and concludes by asking her to join their 'protoplasmic bands' in
'Hymen's bands' and spend their 'gay organic life' as husband and wife.
Notes that
Holborn
ViaductHolborn Viaduct
CloseView the register entry >> is 'pronounced to be safe' despite cracks in its metal
columns. Attempts to explain the oversight of the bridge's architect,
William
HaywoodHaywood, William
(1821–94)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, who, according to Punch, was not expected to know of
the effect of atmospheric changes on metal. Notes that 'many years ago every
real architect had a book full of pictures' of iron structures which, when
cool, 'exercised a tremendous pressure, and held up the walls'. Concludes by
suggesting that in 1869 an architect should have known such elementary
principles.
Speculates on the nature of the apparently ghastly-sounding bogie carriages
recommended for the railways. Given that accidents on railways are 'tolerably
frequent', asks 'who knows what might happen to so ghastly a conveyance?'.
Suggests that 'fogey' would be a better name than 'bogey', and would certainly
appeal more to 'nervous' people.
Reflects on the effects of 'larger international communication' on the
attitudes of Frenchmen, notably the fact that their commercial announcements
are more assertive and confident than before. Illustrates this by an
advertisement in the
Morning
PostMorning Post and Daily Advertising Pamphlet
(1772–1900+)
Waterloo Directory
CloseView the register entry >> from a French trader puffing his cure for baldness.
Explains that while
Edwin
LankesterLankester, Edwin
(1814–74)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> 'may sit' on the paupers of the
St
Pancras Poor Law UnionSt Pancras Poor Law Union
CloseView the register entry >>, ratepayers and guardians 'are not to be sat
upon', judging by a recent meeting at which the chairman of the union upheld
its satisfactory condition and considered damaging reports on the workhouse
infirmary to have been 'got up for party purposes'. Discusses the remarks of a
St Pancras guardian who objected to the methods and cost of inquests into
pauper deaths in the workhouse. Believes that the moral of the meeting was that
the present regime should be praised for saving ratepayer's money, which
Punch does not consider moral at all.
Shows a scene at the
Zoological Society GardensZoological Society of London —Gardens
CloseView the register entry >>.
A crowd looks at a bear that has climbed up a long pole, and laughs because the
bear has stolen, and subsequently ruined, the hat of a gentleman onlooker. The
caption states that, as the phrase of the title 'is used only by the inferior
creation, Mr. Punch is glad to illustrate it so appropriately'.
Begins by asking the chairman of the
Metropolitan Board of WorksMetropolitan Board of Works
CloseView the register entry >>,
John ThwaitesThwaites, Sir John
(1815–1870)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>, to
'Cease paeans to raise in Self-Government's praise' (a reference to a recent
speech given by Thwaites) until he has 'lowered our rates, / Settled sewers,
embankments, and thoroughfares'. Points out that the public thinks that rogues
sit on the board and criticises Thwaites for the fact that the
Thames
EmbankmentThames Embankment
CloseView the register entry >> is 'still blocked', 'Father Thames is still poisoned
with your sewage' and that vestrymen 'leave fever to stalk / Through pestilent
court and foul alley'. Attacks the board for allowing paupers at the
St
Pancras Poor Law UnionSt Pancras Poor Law Union
CloseView the register entry >> to die 'In foul wards where fever-germs
fester', and laments the fact that humanity is 'sneered at', science is
'snubbed', and 'they that expose workhouse horrors are dubbed / Lying rogues'.
Urges Thwaites not to praise self-government, which Punch considers 'A
nuisance'.
Noting the 'testimonials' to character which the guardians of the
St
Pancras Poor Law UnionSt Pancras Poor Law Union
CloseView the register entry >> have published, points out that 'the public
laugh at them'. Presents an extract from one dubious testimonial written by an
author of limited literary ability who insists that their
WorkhouseSt Pancras Poor Law Union Workhouse
CloseView the register entry >> is 'Scripilis
clane' and that the patients have no 'Complaintes'.
Begins with an extract telling 'Proprietors of Haunted Houses' that a
few gentlemen wish to visit such houses near London 'for the purpose of
scientific investigation'. This extract and the following poem refer to the
decision by the
London Dialectical SocietyLondon Dialectical Society
CloseView the register entry >> to
launch a committee to investigate spiritualism. The poem describes various
ghostly phenomena for the committee to pursue. These include ghosts 'of
whatever variety' that can 'mingle in learned society' and 'work on the
feelings electric / Of savans devoted to themes dialectic'; haunted
houses full of 'Bells autophonic and creakiest boards', goblins 'from 't'other
side Jordan to roam', demons who will explain the power that 'keeps airy
DANIELHome, Daniel Dunglas
(1833–86)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >>' and 'elongates his
braces', the 'merits / That make
Mrs. MarshallMarshall, Mary Anne
(1842–84)
WBI CloseView the register entry >>
affected by "sperrits"'. Suggests that 'in this age of inquiry', these
'pseudo-philosophers' want to 'daunt' 'old ladies and children', as well as
galvanising 'once and again / All the exploded old tricks of Cock Lane' and
calling 'a white sheet and post [...] a genuine ghost'.
Begins by relishing the fact that the 'Press is powerless to influence the
iron will' of the guardians of the
St
Pancras Poor Law UnionSt Pancras Poor Law Union
CloseView the register entry >>. Draws attention to the report of
Edwin
Lankester'sLankester, Edwin
(1814–74)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> inquest held into the death of a pauper at the
WorkhouseSt Pancras Poor Law Union Workhouse
CloseView the register entry >>, in which the
coroner's jury agreed that the death was 'aggravated by the impure air of the
infirmary'. Defiantly points out that the guardians are 'not going to be put
down' by Lankester or the coroner's court, and that they can 'dismiss
whomsoever they can'.
Includes advice on adulteration of goods, stressing that the author assumes
tradesmen to know their business and those who teach it to them, and advises
those 'tradesmen who sell articles of consumption' to read
DR.
HASSALL'SHassall, Arthur Hill
(1817–94)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> book' (a reference to
Hassall 1857Hassall, Arthur
Hill 1857. Adulterations Detected, or, Plain Instructions for the
Discovery of Frauds in Food and Medicine, London: Longman, Brown, Green,
Longmans, and Roberts
CloseView the register entry >>), because 'His
exposures will be their instructions'.
Discusses an extract from an article by a 'Calcutta writer' who, having read
that watercress is an antidote to nicotine, tried smoking dried watercress
leaves and found that it 'had all the flavour of the best Cavendish without the
treacle'. Believes this is good news for teetotallers because they believe
smoking induces 'alcoholic tendencies' but will probably indulge in watercress
smoking.
Reports that 'certain Vestrymen and [poor-law] Guardians' are preparing a
show of 'poor lean' paupers similar to the 'annual
Fat Cattle ShowSmithfield Club—Cattle Show
CloseView the register entry >>', in which
'Bumbles' are given prizes for being 'the biggest brutes' in their 'treatment
of these creatures'. Adds that prizes will also be awarded to paupers who can
'live upon the smallest nutriment' and cause their parish 'least expense', and
to the 'legal representatives of paupers' who are 'starved nigh to death's
door' and do not complain about being removed to a filthy sick ward. Like
cattle, the pauper's age and weight will be 'posted at his back' as well as his
'diet and cost'. Also suggests that, like a cattle show, the pauper exhibition
will include displays of 'implements and models' including the handiwork of
vestrymen, 'comprising frothy, foolish claptrap, bunkum speeches'.
This poem attacks the evils of self-government, by comparing Barking, the
northern outfall of the London sewerage system, to 'an Elysium'. Describes the
rich 'odours' that emanate from the basin into which the drains flow, the
'savoury London muck' brought to Barking station by barges, and the fact that
the smells and sights are so bad that 'Barking causeth biting / To eyes and
nose also!'. Explains that the town, including its cesspools and roads, is
'self-governed', the cesspools being 'left to clean themselves'. Suggests that
London would be poisoned if it were to emulate the self-government of Barking,
and warns that Barking could wreak its 'vengeance' on London 'By sending down
its sewage / To the mouth of Barking Creek'. Imagines that Barking would be a
'Paradise' for a guardian of the
St
Pancras Poor Law UnionSt Pancras Poor Law Union
CloseView the register entry >> who would consider the stench of Barking to
rival that of his 'ward'. Concludes by ironically suggesting that Barking
represents the ideal of 'unfettered / Self-Government' that 'London ought to
be'.
Utilitarianism, Class, Religious Authority, Health
Begins by pointing out that the
Poor Law BoardPoor Law Board
CloseView the register entry >>
stipulates that poor-law authorities can only administer 'a minimum of relief'
in order to keep paupers alive. Proceeds to discuss a report in the
Morning
PostMorning Post and Daily Advertising Pamphlet
(1772–1900+)
Waterloo Directory
CloseView the register entry >> of a recent meeting at
Sion CollegeSion College
CloseView the register entry >>
convened to discuss the need to check the 'increase of pauperism and [to]
improve the condition of the deserving poor'. Notes that the President of the
Poor Law Board,
George J
GoschenGoschen, George Joachim, 1st Viscount Goschen
(1831–1907)
ODNB CloseView the register entry >> supported the poor law on the question of pauper relief, and
agrees with the Morning Post that sick paupers should be helped to
recover and then enabled to earn a livelihood.
Utilitarianism, Class, Human Development, Nutrition
Shows the Christmas dinner given to paupers at the
St
Pancras Poor Law UnionSt Pancras Poor Law Union
CloseView the register entry >>. In the foreground, Mr Punch cuts slices of
a gigantic Christmas pudding, while next to him (in a stark reversal of their
usual uncaring role), poor-law guardians fall to their knees and hand plates of
pudding to rows of seated (and thankful) paupers. In the spirit of Christmas,
the windows and walls of the room are decorated with wreaths, a Mr Punch
puppet, and toy windmills.
The author intends to write to the meteorologist
John R HindHind, John Russell
(1823–95)
DSB CloseView the register entry >> about
'Meteorological matters', including his proposal to rearrange and double the
months of the year. He ridicules the claim that the moon has an effect on the
'arbitrary division' of the months, and asks for 'a little more summer, and
just so much mild winter as will be beneficial to the poor sportsmen'.
Concludes by announcing that he is 'ready to receive subscriptions' to further
the prospect of his 'Scientific Committee for the Re-arrangement of the
Year'.