The Measure of a Lady — Deeanne Gist

FIVE RULES FOR PROPER 19th-CENTURY LADIES

SPEAK POLITELY. Even when you're the only respectable woman around, protesting San Francisco's decadent surrender to gold fever.

DRESS MODESTLY. Wear your sunbonnet at all times. Ensure nobody sees your men's boots muddied by the city streets.

REMAIN DEVOTED TO FAMILY. Protect your siblings from the temptations that surround them, even against their wishes.

STAND ABOVE REPROACH. Most difficult when a captivating man turns out to be a saloon owner.

RISE ABOVE TEMPTATION. No accepting gifts. No bestowing favors. No impeachable behavior ... well, maybe just one...little...kiss?

WHEN THESE RULES BECOME INCREASINGLY DIFFICULT TO UPHOLD, CAN RACHEL VAN BUREN REMAIN A BEACON OF VIRTUE IN A CITY OF VICE?