Perhaps you may know that centuries ago

Puzzle

Perhaps you may know
That centuries ago
My name the world was unknown;
But now 'tis allow'd
In the midst of a crowd
I am met with in every town
Though varied each lot,
In life I have got,
Yet nothing my course e'er en-
dangers ;
And wherever I go
So familiar I grow1
That I am nodded to even by
strangers.
I am cunning and bold,
For young or for old
I fear not, but bawl out aloud;
Pugnacious, you'll say,
For I knock down by scores in a
crowd.
I lie and mislead,
So I pray you take heed;
My art's like a point of a thistle;
Be nice in your choice,
Take Franklin's advice,
And don't pay too much for your
whistle.

Hint

Answer

References

• Loyd, Sam [1914]. in Loyd, Sam, Jr.: Sam Loyd's Cyclopedia of 5000 Puzzles Tricks and Conundrums (in English). New York: Lamb Publishing company, page 13.