Formerly left, and nothing more, But time’s long tongue made ill my core. My opposite, who too, was nothing grand, Now lends itself humbly to a helping hand.

In the past I was ten to the power of four, but now I can be less or I can be more. Some people would say that as a noun I'm improper, but noun before adjective, in that form I first prospered.

Unlike two of my cousins, i remain grounded Remove my first letter and i'm perfect for gardening i'm related to a famous corsair

Dances around me, never touching. Infrequent visits, such big leaps. Over fifty years since our last, yet I see you before I dream.

I am used to measure and conquer, but I am not used to cut bread or make butter. You can find me in in a castle, a pencil case and a parliament .