Thomas Haynes Bayly

Born in Bath, England, Thomas Haynes Bayly was an English poet, songwriter, and dramatist noted for his sentimental verses and successful plays. His popular works often focused on themes of romance and domestic life, capturing the Victorian era's spirit. Bayly penned famous songs like "I'd Be a Butterfly" and "She Wore a Wreath of Roses." Despite his influential career, he faced financial difficulties towards his life's end.

October 13, 1797

April 22, 1839

English

Thomas Haynes Bayly

Why Don't The Men Propose?

Why don't the men propose, mamma?
    Why don't the men propose?
Each seems just coming to the point,
    And then away he goes;
It is no fault of yours, mamma,
    That everybody knows;
You fête the finest men in town,
    Yet, oh! they won't propose.

I'm sure I've done my best, mamma,
    To make a proper match;
For coronets and eldest sons,
    I'm ever on the watch;
I've hopes when some distingue beau
    A glance upon me throws;
But though he'll dance and smile and flirt,
    Alas! he won't propose.

I've tried to win by languishing,
    And dressing like a blue;
I've bought big books and talked of them
    As if I'd read them through!
With hair cropp'd like a man I've felt
    The heads of all the ...

Thomas Haynes Bayly