ANNOUNCEMENT

FROM time immemorial the human race has been interested in pictures ofpersons, scenes and things; and one of the most potent means of drivinghome ideas and lessons, and oftentimes of arousing human passions, isthe cartoon. No longer venomous, the cartoon is regarded as a humorousor sarcastic comment on topics uppermost in the nation’s mind. It ismore than a picture, however, because it is also suggestive and presentsa clear idea, lucidly and usually laughingly worked out.

Naturally the cartoon carries with it a strong individual appeal and assuch it is used quite extensively by the press. The idea of displayingcartoons of current events as a window attraction, however, is new, andhas met with wide approval judging by the throngs which they attract. Itoriginated with the Carey Fountain Pen Stores and has been used by themfor about eight years.

After demonstrating the success of this unique method of attracting theattention of the public, during which time a chain of pen stores hasbeen established in the principal cities of the country, it was decidedto extend the range of influence of the Carey cartoons by making themavailable to other merchants as well. As a result, hundreds of stores inthe United States and in other countries are now using this means ofdispelling the gloom from the face of the “man in the street.”

When the European War began, the subject did not appear very promisingfor cartoons intended for window display owing to the bitter partisanfeelings the war engendered in the breasts of many whose ancestors camefrom one or other of the belligerent nations. Moreover, the Presidentmade a strong appeal to all citizens to refrain from unneutral words ordeeds. In keeping with the spirit of the proclamation and out ofdeference to the feelings of very many citizens, absolute neutrality hasbeen sought and maintained in the Carey war cartoons. This is no easytask and we believe that this difficult subject has been treateddiscreetly and masterfully as well. The cartoons are done in color andthe artist has been accurate in his portrayal of the character andtraits of the monarchs and peoples involved in the titanic struggle. TheWar being uppermost in the minds of all people at the present time, thecartoons are doubly effective on that account.