EIGHTEEN

A Riddle

At once to describe my name and my race,

I often attend on the huntsman at chase;

I also can find it is equally pleasant

To wait on the squire, or even a peasant;

But when I conceit myself most highly blessed,

Is when by a lady I’m fondly caressed:

Yet many a child seems to take a delight

To treat me with constant ill-humour and spite.

On me you may always for safety depend,

And consider me both your protector and friend.