Convince the Dauphin now, dear Joan, convince
Him now; forget the peasant business. Wage
Charm on him: boy-cut hair and virgin grace.
Assert his strength to raise the English siege.

The scene is mandatory, so the spell
Only awaits your touching. They are real
Your voices: stop to listen, Joan. They call
To battle Christ and lily shod in steel.

No, do not throw your arms about: your face
Is your chief weapon. See, he starts to waver—
Seduced somewhat. Press your advantage now,
Make him proclaim you France’s spur and savior.

No hesitation now; depart in joy.
There will be space for sorrow at the stake
In Rouen, when the black Inquisitor
Finds your bright maidenhead too bright to break.

This article appears in October 14 2013.