American Old Time Song Lyrics: 14 If I Only Were A Pretty Little Fly

Theater, Music-Hall, Nostalgic, Irish & Historic Old Songs, Volume 14

If I Only Were a Pretty Little Fly.
Copyright, 1882, by Jas. F. Hey & Co.
Written and sung by Gus Williams.

While sitting at my ease enjoying much the breeze,
At my window the other afternoon,
A pretty little fly I saw came darting by,
He buzzed as he flew into the room;
He alighted here and there, devoid of ev'ry care,
As round about he went with utmost speed;
And with beautiful repose he settled on my nose,
Which I thought was impudence, indeed.
So between you and me, when I his tricks did see,
A thought struck me quickly by the bye;
To what places I could go, And what strange things I would know,
If I only were a pretty little fly.

I'd go to Coney Isle in most fashionable style,
And the boats could ne'er sink me in the sea;
If trav'ling by the train, I could go from here to Spain, . .
No accident would ever trouble me.
I'd go among the boys and share in all their joys.
And at the "Brighton "I would dine each day;
Through Central Park I'd ride, with Jennie by my side,
And listen to whatever she might say.
I'd know the winning horse, and bet on him, of course,
And for a drink I never would be dry;
Tho' I couldn't dance or sing, I'd do most ev'rything,
If I only were a pretty little fly.

In the politician's way I'd wander ev'ry day,
And know just how they run that great machine,
To each alderman I'd say; They ought to raise your pay,
'Tis the hardest working office ever seen.
In bob-tall cars I'd ride, no fare I would provide,
'Till they came And took the money in their hand;
I'd do just as I please, and the girls how I would tease,
While strolling through the moonlight on the sand.
I'd wake up ev'ry day, with a head so clear and gay,
To play me for an "angel" none would try;
With a smile for ev'ry one, all trouble I would shun,
If I only were a pretty little fly.