Punning is a science which teaches men how to pervert the meanings of words and phrases; and by a dexterous sleight of tongue, make them subservient to their own purpose. This art, though very much esteemed by some; by the generality of the world is held in very great abhorrence, and its professors viewed with secret fear and distrust.
- G. R. Wythern Baxter (1842)

science? art? Baxter goes on to refer to punning as a liberal science.