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Between two thieves
Between two thieves

Chapter II

Chapter 2 of Between two thieves is here in full — 408 sentences across 82 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

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Context Illustration Reading 1/81 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
“I thank you, Mademoiselle.”
The bonnet of the Duchesse bent in gracious acknowledgment.
“It is incumbent upon the members of my family to set an example.
Nor do we fail of our duty, as a rule.”
Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

Between two thieves

Chapter II

Chapter 2 of Between two thieves is here in full — 408 sentences across 82 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/81 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
“I thank you, Mademoiselle.”
/aɪ θæŋk juː ˌmædəməˈzel/
Line 2
The bonnet of the Duchesse bent in gracious acknowledgment.
Line 3
“It is incumbent upon the members of my family to set an example.
/ɪt ɪz ˌɪnˈkʌmbənt əˈpɑːn ðə ˈmembərz ʌv maɪ ˈfæməli tuː set æn ɪɡˈzæmpəl/
Line 4
Nor do we fail of our duty, as a rule.”
/nɔːr duː wiː feɪl ʌv ˈaʊər ˈduːti æz ə ruːl/
Line 5
Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

Learner Dictionary

These definitions explain words found in the current reading and keep every example grounded in its original sentence.

Oxford-style entry order: headword, part of speech, US IPA, concise definition, contextual example, and audio.

creases noun US /ˈkriːsɪz/

plural of “crease” — an angular or rounded shape made by folding

From this reading “Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.”

demure adjective US /dɪˈmjʊr/

affectedly modest or shy especially in a playful or provocative way

From this reading “Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.”

dimples noun US /ˈdɪmpəlz/

plural of “dimple” — a chad that has been punched or dimpled but all four corners are still attached

From this reading “Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.”

headgear noun US /ˈhedɡɪr/

clothing for the head

From this reading “Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.”

incumbent adjective US /ˌɪnˈkʌmbənt/

lying or leaning on something else

From this reading ““It is incumbent upon the members of my family to set an example.”

patrician noun US /pəˈtrɪʃən/

a person of refined upbringing and manners

From this reading “Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.”

pussycats noun US /ˈpʊsikæts/

plural of “pussycat” — a person who is regarded as easygoing and agreeable

From this reading “Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.”

sardonic adjective US /sɑːrˈdɑːnɪk/

disdainfully or ironically humorous; scornful and mocking

From this reading “Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.”

Word partnerships in these lines

English keeps certain words together, and knowing the pair is worth more than knowing each word alone. Every partnership below was counted across our whole published library, and earns its place by appearing far more often than two unrelated words of the same frequency would.

Shown as this reading writes them, with the form the library counts, what kind of pairing it is, and how often it occurs.

set an example verb + article + noun counted as “set … example”

In this reading ““It is incumbent upon the members of my family to set an example.”

on the bench preposition + article + noun counted as “on … bench”

In this reading “Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.”

all three adjective + noun

In this reading “Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.”

All words in this reading · 90

Every word in these five lines is listed here, and every one of them can be played on its own.

Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.

adeterminerUS /ə/

used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one

From this reading Nor do we fail of our duty, as a rule.”

acknowledgmentnounUS /ækˈnɑːlɪdʒmənt/

the state or quality of being recognized or acknowledged

From this reading The bonnet of the Duchesse bent in gracious acknowledgment.

alladjectiveUS /ɔːl/

(quantifier) used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

andeterminerUS /æn/

the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound

From this reading “It is incumbent upon the members of my family to set an example.

anotherdeterminerUS /əˈnʌðər/

one more of the same kind, or a different one

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

at the same time that; because; in the way that

From this reading Nor do we fail of our duty, as a rule.”

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/

the past participle of “be”

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

behindprepositionUS /bɪˈhaɪnd/

at or toward the back of something

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

benchnounUS /bentʃ/

a long seat for more than one person

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

bentnounUS /bent/

a relatively permanent inclination to react in a particular way

From this reading The bonnet of the Duchesse bent in gracious acknowledgment.

bonnetnounUS /ˈbɑːnət/

a hat tied under the chin

From this reading The bonnet of the Duchesse bent in gracious acknowledgment.

Bougon

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

chinnounUS /tʃɪn/

the protruding part of the lower jaw

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

creasesnounUS /ˈkriːsɪz/

plural of “crease” — an angular or rounded shape made by folding

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

deepenedverbUS /ˈdiːpənd/

past form of “deepen” — make more intense, stronger, or more marked

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

demureadjectiveUS /dɪˈmjʊr/

affectedly modest or shy especially in a playful or provocative way

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

dimplesnounUS /ˈdɪmpəlz/

plural of “dimple” — a chad that has been punched or dimpled but all four corners are still attached

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

doauxiliary verbUS /duː/

used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis

From this reading Nor do we fail of our duty, as a rule.”

Duchesse

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading The bonnet of the Duchesse bent in gracious acknowledgment.

dutynounUS /ˈduːti/

the social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force

From this reading Nor do we fail of our duty, as a rule.”

enjoymentnounUS /ˌenˈdʒɔɪmənt/

the pleasure felt when having a good time

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

evenadjectiveUS /ˈiːvɪn/

divisible by two

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

evidencenounUS /ˈevədəns/

your basis for belief or disbelief; knowledge on which to base belief

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

examplenounUS /ɪɡˈzæmpəl/

an item of information that is typical of a class or group

From this reading “It is incumbent upon the members of my family to set an example.

exchangingverbUS /ɪksˈtʃeɪndʒɪŋ/

-ing form of “exchange” — give to, and receive from, one another

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

extraadjectiveUS /ˈekstrə/

more than is needed, desired, or required

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

failverbUS /feɪl/

fail to do something; leave something undone

From this reading Nor do we fail of our duty, as a rule.”

familynounUS /ˈfæməli/

a social unit living together

From this reading “It is incumbent upon the members of my family to set an example.

feathersnounUS /ˈfeðərz/

plural of “feather” — the light horny waterproof structure forming the external covering of birds

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

glanceverbUS /ɡlæns/

throw a glance at; take a brief look at

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

gold-rimmed

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

graciousadjectiveUS /ˈɡreɪʃəs/

characterized by charm, good taste, and generosity of spirit

From this reading The bonnet of the Duchesse bent in gracious acknowledgment.

haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

headgearnounUS /ˈhedɡɪr/

clothing for the head

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

humorousadjectiveUS /ˈhjuːmərəs/

full of or characterized by humor

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

IpronounUS /aɪ/

the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb

From this reading “I thank you, Mademoiselle.”

impossibleadjectiveUS /ˌɪmˈpɑːsəbəl/

not capable of occurring or being accomplished or dealt with

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

inside something, or within a place, period, or state

From this reading The bonnet of the Duchesse bent in gracious acknowledgment.

incumbentadjectiveUS /ˌɪnˈkʌmbənt/

lying or leaning on something else

From this reading “It is incumbent upon the members of my family to set an example.

isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/

the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading “It is incumbent upon the members of my family to set an example.

ItpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading “It is incumbent upon the members of my family to set an example.

MnounUS /em/

the basic unit of length adopted under the Systeme International d'Unites (approximately 1.094 yards)

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

MademoisellenounUS /ˌmædəməˈzel/

small silvery drumfish often mistaken for white perch; found along coasts of United States from New York to Mexico

From this reading “I thank you, Mademoiselle.”

maymodal verbUS /meɪ/

used to say something is possible, or to give permission

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

membersnounUS /ˈmembərz/

plural of “member” — one of the persons who compose a social group (especially individuals who have joined and participate in a group organization)

From this reading “It is incumbent upon the members of my family to set an example.

moreadjectiveUS /mɔːr/

(comparative of “much” used with mass nouns) a quantifier meaning greater in size or amount or extent or degree

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

mydeterminerUS /maɪ/

belonging to the person speaking

From this reading “It is incumbent upon the members of my family to set an example.

narrowverbUS /ˈneroʊ/

make or become more narrow or restricted

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

NorconjunctionUS /nɔːr/

and not; used after a negative to add a second negative

From this reading Nor do we fail of our duty, as a rule.”

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading The bonnet of the Duchesse bent in gracious acknowledgment.

onprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

onepronounUS /wʌn/

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

ourdeterminerUS /ˈaʊər/

belonging to the speaker and others

From this reading Nor do we fail of our duty, as a rule.”

overprepositionUS /ˈoʊvər/

above and across; more than

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

overwhelmingadjectiveUS /ˌoʊvərˈwelmɪŋ/

so strong as to be irresistible

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

Pasbas

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

patriciannounUS /pəˈtrɪʃən/

a person of refined upbringing and manners

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

PerhapsadverbUS /pərˈhæps/

by chance

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

possiblyadverbUS /ˈpɑːsəbli/

by chance

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

pussycatsnounUS /ˈpʊsikæts/

plural of “pussycat” — a person who is regarded as easygoing and agreeable

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

Pédelaborde's

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

roguishadjective

playful in an appealingly bold way

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

rulenounUS /ruːl/

a principle or condition that customarily governs behavior

From this reading Nor do we fail of our duty, as a rule.”

sardonicadjectiveUS /sɑːrˈdɑːnɪk/

disdainfully or ironically humorous; scornful and mocking

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

seeverbUS /siː/

perceive by sight or have the power to perceive by sight

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

setverbUS /set/

put into a certain place or abstract location

From this reading “It is incumbent upon the members of my family to set an example.

significancenounUS /səɡˈnɪfɪkəns/

the quality of being significant

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

spectaclesnounUS /ˈspektəkəlz/

(plural) optical instrument consisting of a frame that holds a pair of lenses for correcting defective vision

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

standingadjectiveUS /ˈstændɪŋ/

having a supporting base

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

stoutadjectiveUS /staʊt/

dependable

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

stupendousadjectiveUS /stuːˈpendəs/

so great in size or force or extent as to elicit awe

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

thankverbUS /θæŋk/

express gratitude or show appreciation to

From this reading “I thank you, Mademoiselle.”

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

ThedeterminerUS /ðə/

used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind

From this reading The bonnet of the Duchesse bent in gracious acknowledgment.

threenounUS /θriː/

the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one and one

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

toparticleUS /tuː/

used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive

From this reading “It is incumbent upon the members of my family to set an example.

tookverbUS /tʊk/

inflected form of “take” — carry out

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

triflenounUS /ˈtraɪfəl/

a cold pudding made of layers of sponge cake spread with fruit or jelly; may be decorated with nuts, cream, or chocolate

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

tripleverbUS /ˈtrɪpəl/

increase threefold

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

twinkleverbUS /ˈtwɪŋkəl/

gleam or glow intermittently

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

uponprepositionUS /əˈpɑːn/

a formal word for “on”

From this reading “It is incumbent upon the members of my family to set an example.

wepronounUS /wiː/

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading Nor do we fail of our duty, as a rule.”

wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/

the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

withoutprepositionUS /wɪˈθaʊt/

not having, not using, or not accompanied by

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/

used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past

From this reading Perhaps the roguish dimples of Mademoiselle Pasbas were a trifle more in evidence; possibly the humorous creases of enjoyment deepened in the stout Pédelaborde’s triple chin; it may be that the sardonic twinkle behind the narrow gold-rimmed spectacles of M. Bougon took on extra significance; but all three were as demure as pussycats, not even exchanging a glance behind the overwhelming patrician headgear with the stupendous feathers;--to see one another over it would have been impossible without standing on the bench.

youpronounUS /juː/

the person or people being spoken to

From this reading “I thank you, Mademoiselle.”

Chapter 2 of Between two thieves by Richard Dehan holds 408 sentences, grouped into 82 reading sections of at most 5 sentences. The text is the source edition, unabridged, and the chapter records which sentences cover which part of the work so that nothing is dropped. Every word can be tapped for its pronunciation and dictionary entry.

What does chapter 2 of Between two thieves contain?

Chapter 2 holds 408 sentences of Between two thieves, unabridged, divided into 82 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 2 of Between two thieves by Richard Dehan exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 408 sentences, grouped into 82 sections of at most 5 sentences so that a reader can take the chapter in steady, finishable pieces. The chapter also stores a coverage record mapping every one of its sentences to a part of the work, which is how the edition demonstrates that no line was dropped.

How do I study chapter 2 of Between two thieves?

Work through the 82 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 82 sections in this chapter is short enough to read once, hear once, and then re-read with the vocabulary in view. Tapping a word plays it alone and opens its dictionary entry with IPA, part of speech and meaning, so the reader is never forced to guess a pronunciation from spelling. Working section by section keeps a long chapter from becoming an undifferentiated wall of text, which is the usual reason a reader abandons a work of this period.

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Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 2 can be played aloud in United States English.

Audio covers the whole chapter: any sentence can be played, and any single word within it can be played on its own. The voice uses United States English. For a work of this period that matters, because spelling is an unreliable guide to pronunciation for vocabulary that has fallen out of daily use, and a learner who guesses wrong tends to keep the error. Hearing the word in its own sentence, and then alone, settles it.

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Project Gutenberg eBook #70431, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does Between two thieves take to read?

About 600 minutes of reading across 2337 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

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Vocabulary met early in Between two thieves

Words and structures a reader meets early in Between two thieves, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Paralytic
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Between two thieves; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Whose
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Between two thieves; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Snow-white
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Between two thieves; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Silken
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Between two thieves; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.