Genre:

Announcement, News-Commentary

Subjects:

Astronomy, Superstition

    Announces the imminent arrival of a comet that is expected to 'terrify everybody'. Extracts a report anticipating the comet's 'terrible growth' in the sky, its dramatic raising of the earth's temperature, and its 'hideous collision' with the earth. The report suggests that there will be no time for 'an ejaculation' and that small insects will be instantaneously killed. Punch notes that the report has the sanction of several learned authorities, including the Astronomer Royal (George B Airy), and that the comet's nose has already been seen above the horizon. Urges readers to hurry their subscriptions.