Ballads is a collection of humorous and affectionate odes to various animals. William Hayley writes lovingly about a wide variety of animals, from man's best friend to ferocious and wild creatures such as elephants and lions. Excerpt: " Of all the speechless friends of man The faithful dog I deem Deserving from the human clan The tenderest esteem: This feeling creature formed to love, To watch, and to defend, Was given to man by powers above, A guardian, and a friend!"