Advice to Heroines

A heroine must shrink and cling

When heroes are about,

And thus the watching world will think:

“How brave his heart and stout!”

But if he chance to be away

When bright-faced dangers shine,

It will be best for her to play

The oak-tree, not the vine.

In fact the most important thing

Is knowing when it's time to cling.

A heroine must be polite

And do what others say is right,

And think men wise and formidable —

At least as far as she is able.