But now, as at some nobler places,

Among the leaders ’twas decreed

Time to begin the Dicky-Races,

More famed for laughter than for speed.

Richard looked on with wondrous glee,

And praised the lad who chanced to win.

“Kate, wa’n’t I such a one as he?

As like him, ay, as pin to pin?

“Full fifty years have passed away,

Since I rode this same ground about;