We have talked before about WIMPY's abilities as a master of mooching. Was he a moocher from the very beginning? Bud Sagendorf (Elzie Segar's only assistant) tells us that WIMPY's origin goes back to another Elzie Segar comic creation known as, 'The Five-Fifteen'. According to Bud, "J.WELLINGTON WIMPY appeared physically, though nameless." It was later, in 'Thimble Theatre' where WIMPY got his real start - first as a fight referee and later as a master hamburger moocher.
POPEYE is usually pretty good at maintaining his composure around WIMPY. However, there are times when the rotund burger bandit can try even POPEYE's patience.
I refer back to a 1960 comic strip created by Mr. Sagendorf. As the comic begins, OLIVE hears some terrible noises, "SPLAT! BAM!" She takes-off into a run and spots the source of the sounds, "Good Heavens!? - POPEYE, stop that!!"
When she reaches her destination - OLIVE shouts, "STOP IT!! You'll hurt your hand!!"
POPEYE is standing next to a massive tree and is pounding on it with his ham-sized fist, "POW!"
A concerned OLIVE asks, "What's wrong with you?"
An aggravated POPEYE snaps, "I yam frustrated! WIMPY an' his moochin' is drivin' me 'orf' the deep end!"
OLIVE smiles and responds kindly, "Hitting a tree isn't going to help your mental block against WIMPY! What you have to do is face up to the problem! - The next time you meet him, force yourself to be nice to him!"
In the next panel, WIMPY approaches. OLIVE smiles and tells POPEYE, "Here he comes! Don't let him bother you! - Be cheerful!"
POPEYE listens to his 'sweet patootie' and tries to take her advice. The sailor man offers greetings, "Yoo-Hoo! Ahoy, WIMPY! I yam glad to see ya!"
The moocher stops in his tracks. He doesn't know what to think. POPEYE continues, "I wants ya ta know that I thinks ya is the salts of the eart'!"
That's all WIMPY needs to hear. The moocher responds, "Wait right here, ol' pal! I'll be right back!" When he returns, WIMPY has a large trunk hoisted onto his back.
POPEYE asks the obvious, "What is ya doin' wit' the trunk?"
WIMPY answers, "Now that we're such good friends I have decided to move in with you!"
In he final frame, WIMPY lays on the ground and props himself against his trunk. He nurses a black eye given to him by POPEYE. The ol' salt walks away growling and cursing under his breath.
OLIVE stands behind the trunk looking puzzled as a dazed WIMPY notes, "For a moment there I thought I had found a friend!"