The propagation of a lie [graphic]

"A strip design of a sequence of eighteen figures, all men. Their gestures and expressions denote pleasure, surprise, or horror (real or affected). Over the head of each person the words he speaks are engraved. The first (left) runs forward in profile to the right, 'chapeau bras', both arms extended, exclaiming "Tis true". The next, looking away gloomily, says, "Tis Pity". A man, with a pleased smile, says "As tender as possible". His neighbour says "Dont mention it", to a man who says "Poo, Poo". The next, clenching his fist, says angrily, "God Zounds hold - your Tongue", addressing a foppish man who capers delightedly, saying "Ha Ha". The next, with a shocked (but pleased) expression says "O La !" to a man who answers, "Dear me you dont say so?" A stout man yawns "Heigh ho". A lean one says "O Fye". The next couple, addressing each other, say "Indeed!" and "There now". The next, highly pleased, says "I thought so" to an angry man who exclaims "The Devil!" A lean austere man, raising a hand, says "No sure". A foppish man, 'chapeau bras', bowing with his hand on his heart, says, "Depend upon it". The last, horrified, exclaims "O Lord! O Lord!"."--British Museum catalogue