Genre:

Essay, Drollery

Subjects:

Gas Chemistry, Invention, Morality, Politics, Government, Commerce

People mentioned:

Joseph Priestley

    Mr Punch presents his scheme for supplying 'protoxide of nitrogen', a gas which he believes 'exerts an elevating influence', to the public. Intends to erect 'Exhilarating Gas Houses' and argues that installing 'Exhilarating' gas-pipes in homes, theatres, and the Houses of Parliament, will restore the humour of people in those places. Believes that exhilarating gas supplied to the Stock Exchange will raise 'national prosperity' and that it will provide the government with 'an infallible means of preserving order and tranquillity'.