What is "knave child"

Knave \Knave\ (n[=a]v), n. [OE., boy, servant, knave, AS. cnafa boy, youth; cf. AS. cnapa boy, youth, D. knaap, G. knabe boy, knappe esquire, Icel. knapi, Sw. knape esquire, kn["a]fvel knave.]

1. A boy; especially, a boy servant. [Obs.]
   --Wyclif. Chaucer.

   O murderous slumber, Lay'st thou thy leaden mace upon my boy That plays thee music ? Gentle knave, good night.
   --Shak.

2. Any male servant; a menial. [Obs.]
   --Chaucer.

   He's but Fortune's knave, A minister of her will.
   --Shak.

3. A tricky, deceitful fellow; a dishonest person; a rogue; a villain. ``A pair of crafty knaves.''
   --Shak.

   In defiance of demonstration, knaves will continue to proselyte fools.
   --Ames.

   Note: ``How many serving lads must have been unfaithful and dishonest before knave -- which meant at first no more than boy -- acquired the meaning which it has now !''
   --Trench.

4. A playing card marked with the figure of a servant or soldier; a jack; as, the knave of hearts.

   Knave child, a male child. [Obs.]
   --Chaucer.

   Syn: Villain; cheat; rascal; rogue; scoundrel; miscreant.