When the Women Say They Will

This pretty little ditty made its way to me from Atlanta city,

(the Constitution to be exact);

it didn't have a title,

though its message is quite clear.

There's no holding women back

when a bicycle is near.

"Maria rides a bicykile

That's painted red and blue,

An' I reckon she'll be bouncin'

In them colored bloomers, too.

But what's the use in howlin'?

Got to climb the hill!

Ain't no good in growlin'

When the women say they will!

The hoss is idle in the lot

She's let the old mule slide;

She's changed completely since she got

That bicykile to ride!

But what's the use in shoutin'?

Got to climb the hill!

Ain't no use in poutin'

When the women say they will!

The world - it keeps a turnin'

We're all the time at sea;

It's left me in the kitchen

Wher' Maria used to be!

But what's the use in singin'?

Got to climb the hill!

Ain't no good in cryin'

When the women say they will!

(1896)