An adaptation of the classical story of Laocoon and the serpents to the circumstances of some of the parties to what was already known as the “Pacific Scandal.” The persons represented are Sir Hugh Allan, (to whom the charter was sold), Sir John Macdonald, and Sir Francis Hincks. It is due to the latter gentleman to point out that, as indicated in the cartoon, he was merely suspected of complicity in the matter, and most emphatically denied the truth of the allegation of his guilt, made in some of the newspapers.
Grip, July 19th, 1873.
“CANADA’S LAOCOON;”
OR, VIRGIL ON THE POLITICAL SITUATION.
“Ecce autem gemini a Tenedo, tranquilla per alta, &c.”—Æneid, Book II.
(Freely Translated.)
“When lo! two snakes (perhaps from the Yankee shore),
Together trail their folds across the floor,
With precious scandals reared in front they wind,
Charge after charge, in long drawn length behind!
While opposition benches cheer the while,