"A certain portion of the human race has certainly a taste for being diddled"

In this quote, Thomas Hood is suggesting that there is a group of people who take pleasure in being deceived or tricked. Making use of the word "diddled" indicates a sense of being controlled or benefited from. Hood is highlighting the truth that there are individuals who find pleasure in being tricked, whether it be through a practical joke or a more major form of deception. This could be viewed as a commentary on humanity and the idea that some individuals are drawn to the thrill of being tricked. It likewise raises concerns about the inspirations behind this desire and the possible effects of being "diddled.".