On the Role & Behaviour of Christian Women by the Reformer John Calvin

Saint Paul commanded the elder women to apparel or attire themselves honestly with all holiness, so as there might be no pride nor preciseness in it, but that their behavior might be able to edify and to give good example to all the world.

After he hath said so, now he addeth immediately, That they should be no evil speakers. For I have told you already, how Saint Paul had a care to correct the vices whereunto both men and women are inclined, and to warn every man in his vocation to take heed to himself, as we know that a physician should do, who ought to know the complexion of the diseased party, if he mind to heal him, and to warn him of the things that are for his behoof.

Now let us see if it were not expedient [in these days] to counsel widows and elderly women to bridle their tongues. We know they be given to much prattling, and would God it were so as men might conceal it.

But for as much as the disease hath so full scope, therefore Saint Paul saith expressly, that all women and specially such as are already aged and ought to have more discretion then others, should beware that they be not talkative nor misspeakers. For we know, and experience teacheth it, that evil tongues are as firebrands to kindle fire everywhere: and specially a woman shall do most harm, because she may have most familiar access.

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