On 24th July 1685, barrister Robert Frances faced execution for killing the notorious Thomas Dangerfield. Frances claimed he merely intended to strike the recently whipped prisoner with his bamboo cane after being insulted. Instead, the cane entered Dangerfield’s eye, turning a fleeting burst of anger into a fatal encounter.
Tag Archives: the Sage Page
Advice of the Day: Saving Time at Breakfast
The Wise Sage tackles morning efficiency with another spectacularly unhelpful “Advice of the Day.” Why waste time eating breakfast and brushing your teeth separately when you can do both at once? Featuring toothpaste-covered toast, toothbrush cereal spoons and minty cornflakes, this absurd Viz Top Tips-style guide takes multitasking somewhere it really shouldn’t go.
Quote of the Day: The Wrong Branch
Today’s Quote of the Day from The Sage considers unexpected change: “The hardest lesson is to recognise that not every earthquake is a disaster; some simply shake us loose from the wrong branch.” A reflection on upheaval, resilience and recognising when disruption creates an opportunity to move forward.
Quote of the Day: Mysteries and Manners
Today’s Quote of the Day from The Sage reminds us that curiosity is valuable, but wisdom also knows when to stop digging. “Never trust anyone who warns you not to ask how the sausage was made. Some mysteries are better left wrapped in good manners.” Sometimes kindness is knowing when enough is enough.
Advice of the Day: Feeding the Kids
The Wise Sage serves up another hilariously unhelpful “Advice of the Day,” explaining why spaghetti should only ever be served on bath nights. In true Viz Top Tips style, this absurd parenting guide celebrates flying meatballs, tomato sauce disasters, and the glorious inevitability of children wearing more dinner than they eat.
This Day in History – 23rd July 1753
A quarrel over gin ended with one fatal knife wound and a journey to Tyburn. William Peers’ execution on 23rd July 1753 tells the tragic story of an ordinary London baker whose violent temper destroyed his wife, his own life, and left behind a cautionary tale recorded by the Ordinary of Newgate.
This Day in History – 22nd July 1895
A late-night walk along Edgware Road turned into a brutal gang robbery when Arthur Robert Mays was attacked by four young offenders and robbed of his watch. Witnesses quickly identified the assailants, leading to convictions that ended with hard labour—and the brutal punishment of the cat-o’-nine-tails.
Advice of the Day: Trusting Dogs
The Wise Sage returns with another hilariously unhelpful “Advice of the Day.” This time he explains why dogs should be trusted as the ultimate judges of human character. In true Viz Top Tips style, it’s packed with absurd logic, terrible decision-making, and enough canine wisdom to ruin perfectly good friendships.
Quote of the Day: Success
Today’s Quote of the Day from The Sage reminds us that success is about more than achieving goals. “Success is not measured by how often you hit the standard, but by whether your standards survive success.” True achievement is keeping your integrity, humility and values intact when success finally arrives.
Quote of the Day: Courtesy
Today’s Quote of the Day from The Sage reflects on humility and kindness: “Salvation is rarely found by those who expect to be served before they offer courtesy.” A thoughtful reminder that genuine fulfilment often begins with respect, generosity, and the simple habit of putting others before ourselves.
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