Thomas Haynes Bayly (1797 - 1839)

Thomas Haynes Bayly was an English poet, songwriter, dramatist, and miscellaneous writer. The son of a wealthy lawyer in Bath, Bayly intended to become an attorney like his father, but he changed his mind and thought of entering the church, but he abandoned this idea also and gave himself to writing for the stage and the periodical press. He is chiefly known for his songs (of which he wrote hundreds) which, set to the music of Bishop and other eminent composers, found universal acceptance. Some were set to his own music. He also wrote several novels and a number of farces. Although making a large income from his writings, in addition to that of his wife, he encountered financial problems.