THE  rights of women—what are they?

The right to labor, love and pray

The right to weep with those that weep

The right to wake when others sleep.

The right to dry the falling tear,

The right to quell the rising fear;

The right to smooth the brow of care,

And whisper comfort in despair. 

The right the wanderer to reclaim,

And win the lost from paths of shame;

The right to comfort and to bless

The widow and the fatherless.

The right the little ones to guide,

In simple faith, to Him who died;

With earnest love and gentle praise,

To bless and cheer their youthful days.

The right the intellect to train,

And guide the mind to noble aim;

Teach it to rise above earth’s toys,

And fix the heart on Heavenly joys.

The right to live for Him you love.

The right to die that love to prove;

The right to brighten earthly homes

With pleasant smiles and gentle tones.

Are these thy rights?—then use them well;

The holy influence none can tell;

If these be thine—Why ask for more?

Thou hast enough to answer for!

Are these thy rights? Then murmur not

That women’s mission is thy lot;

Improve the talents God hath given;

Earth’s duties done—thy rest in Heaven!

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