Chapter I · Chapter 1

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

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

highly skilled

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

make an addition (to); join or combine or unite with others; increase the quality, quantity, size or scope of

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

touching and pressing; in opposition to

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

how long something has existed

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

at all times; all the time and on every occasion

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

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

From this reading On the other hand, should I live to be an old man, this record of my career will furnish me with material for a more complete autobiography, and will serve as a safeguard against a failing memory.

used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together

From this reading {Illustration: “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”} ILLUSTRATIONS (not available in this file) “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”

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

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

a biography of yourself

From this reading On the other hand, should I live to be an old man, this record of my career will furnish me with material for a more complete autobiography, and will serve as a safeguard against a failing memory.

obtainable or accessible and ready for use or service

From this reading {Illustration: “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”} ILLUSTRATIONS (not available in this file) “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”

in or to or toward a former location

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

a building or group of buildings used to house military personnel

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

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

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

earlier than; in front of

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

the -ing form of “be”

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

be owned by; be in the possession of

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

give a benediction to

From this reading {Illustration: “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”} ILLUSTRATIONS (not available in this file) “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

small room on a ship or boat where people sleep

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

temporary living quarters specially built by the army for soldiers

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

to be able to, or to be allowed to

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

the particular occupation for which you are trained

From this reading On the other hand, should I live to be an old man, this record of my career will furnish me with material for a more complete autobiography, and will serve as a safeguard against a failing memory.

taking care or paying attention

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

inflected form of “carry” — move while supporting, either in a vehicle or in one's hands or on one's body

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

a formal event performed on a special occasion

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

come or bring to a finish or an end

From this reading On the other hand, should I live to be an old man, this record of my career will furnish me with material for a more complete autobiography, and will serve as a safeguard against a failing memory.

approval

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

inflected form of “cry” — utter a sudden loud cry

From this reading {Illustration: “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”} ILLUSTRATIONS (not available in this file) “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”

the specified day of the month

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

an accounting entry acknowledging sums that are owing

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

cause to be slowed down or delayed

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

having finished or arrived at completion

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

being or moving lower in position or less in some value

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

a flaw or weak point

From this reading On the other hand, should I live to be an old man, this record of my career will furnish me with material for a more complete autobiography, and will serve as a safeguard against a failing memory.

cause to fall by or as if by delivering a blow

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

record in a public office or in a court of law

From this reading {Illustration: “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”} ILLUSTRATIONS (not available in this file) “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”

preceding all others in time or space or degree

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

to travel behind, go after, come after

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

an unknown and unpredictable phenomenon that causes an event to result one way rather than another

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

at or to or toward the front

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

set up or found

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

an ornamental facade

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

give something useful or necessary to

From this reading On the other hand, should I live to be an old man, this record of my career will furnish me with material for a more complete autobiography, and will serve as a safeguard against a failing memory.

change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically

From this reading {Illustration: “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”} ILLUSTRATIONS (not available in this file) “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”

the supernatural being conceived as the perfect and omnipotent and omniscient originator and ruler of the universe; the object of worship in monotheistic religions

From this reading {Illustration: “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”} ILLUSTRATIONS (not available in this file) “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”

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

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

the (prehensile) extremity of the superior limb

From this reading On the other hand, should I live to be an old man, this record of my career will furnish me with material for a more complete autobiography, and will serve as a safeguard against a failing memory.

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

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

involving risk or danger

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading {Illustration: “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”} ILLUSTRATIONS (not available in this file) “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”

belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

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

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

artwork that helps make something clear or attractive

From this reading {Illustration: “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”} ILLUSTRATIONS (not available in this file) “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”

plural of “illustration” — artwork that helps make something clear or attractive

From this reading {Illustration: “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”} ILLUSTRATIONS (not available in this file) “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”

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

From this reading {Illustration: “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”} ILLUSTRATIONS (not available in this file) “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”

relating to or being on the side closer to the center or within a defined space

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

a very short time (as the time it takes the eye to blink or the heart to beat)

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

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

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

a white soft metallic element that tarnishes readily; occurs in rare earth minerals and is usually classified as a rare earth

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

a characteristic state or mode of living

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

be an inhabitant of or reside in

From this reading On the other hand, should I live to be an old man, this record of my career will furnish me with material for a more complete autobiography, and will serve as a safeguard against a failing memory.

past form of “live” — be an inhabitant of or reside in

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

produced by a manufacturing process

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

concerned with worldly rather than spiritual interests

From this reading On the other hand, should I live to be an old man, this record of my career will furnish me with material for a more complete autobiography, and will serve as a safeguard against a failing memory.

used to say something is possible, or to give permission

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

the person speaking, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

a formally arranged gathering

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

plural of “memoir” — an account of the author's personal experiences

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

The faculty by which the mind stores and remembers information and knowledge.

From this reading On the other hand, should I live to be an old man, this record of my career will furnish me with material for a more complete autobiography, and will serve as a safeguard against a failing memory.

used to say something is possible but not certain

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

one of the twelve divisions of the calendar year

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

the natural satellite of the Earth

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

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

From this reading On the other hand, should I live to be an old man, this record of my career will furnish me with material for a more complete autobiography, and will serve as a safeguard against a failing memory.

belonging to the person speaking

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

used when the speaker is also the object of the action

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

not ever; at no time in the past or future

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

immediately following in time or order

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

superlative of “noble” — impressive in appearance

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading {Illustration: “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”} ILLUSTRATIONS (not available in this file) “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”

in the historical present; at this point in the narration of a series of past events

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

from a particular thing or place or position (“forth” is obsolete)

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

(used especially of persons) having lived for a relatively long time or attained a specific age

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading On the other hand, should I live to be an old man, this record of my career will furnish me with material for a more complete autobiography, and will serve as a safeguard against a failing memory.

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

(often plural) a command given by a superior (e.g., a military or law enforcement officer) that must be obeyed

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading On the other hand, should I live to be an old man, this record of my career will furnish me with material for a more complete autobiography, and will serve as a safeguard against a failing memory.

belonging to the speaker and others

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

above and across; more than

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

plural of “page” — one side of one leaf (of a book or magazine or newspaper or letter etc.) or the written or pictorial matter it contains

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

something determined in relation to something that includes it

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

excessively forward

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

the body of people in a learned occupation

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

make a proposal, declare a plan for something

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

past form of “reach” — reach a destination, either real or abstract

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

anything (such as a document or a phonograph record or a photograph) providing permanent evidence of or information about past events

From this reading On the other hand, should I live to be an old man, this record of my career will furnish me with material for a more complete autobiography, and will serve as a safeguard against a failing memory.

any of many shrubs of the genus Rosa that bear roses

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

of or relating to or indicative of or issued or performed by a king or queen or other monarch

From this reading {Illustration: “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”} ILLUSTRATIONS (not available in this file) “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”

a principle or condition that customarily governs behavior

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

a precautionary measure warding off impending danger or damage or injury etc.

From this reading On the other hand, should I live to be an old man, this record of my career will furnish me with material for a more complete autobiography, and will serve as a safeguard against a failing memory.

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

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

the seventh and last day of the week; observed as the Sabbath by Jews and some Christians

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

inflected form of “see” — perceive by sight or have the power to perceive by sight

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

serve a purpose, role, or function

From this reading On the other hand, should I live to be an old man, this record of my career will furnish me with material for a more complete autobiography, and will serve as a safeguard against a failing memory.

used to say what is right, expected, or advisable

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

an enlisted man or woman who serves in an army

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

a thing, without saying which

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

inflected form of “spring” — move forward by leaps and bounds

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

an ungainly posture with arms and legs spread about

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

not in physical motion

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

happening unexpectedly

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

be agreeable or acceptable to

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

having or feeling no doubt or uncertainty; confident and assured

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

understood in a certain way; made sense of

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

express in words

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

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

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

the people or things already mentioned, as the object

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned

From this reading {Illustration: “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”} ILLUSTRATIONS (not available in this file) “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”

a more or less definite period of time now or previously present

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

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

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

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

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

the cardinal number that is the sum of twenty-two and one

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

up to a particular time

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

being or moving higher in position or greater in some value; being above a former position or level

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

plural of “venture” — any venturesome undertaking especially one with an uncertain outcome

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

plural of “wait” — time during which some action is awaited

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

past form of “walk” — use one's feet to advance; advance by steps

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

the waging of armed conflict against an enemy

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

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

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

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

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

used to ask for information about something

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

used to talk about the future, or about willingness

From this reading On the other hand, should I live to be an old man, this record of my career will furnish me with material for a more complete autobiography, and will serve as a safeguard against a failing memory.

in the company of; together with

From this reading On the other hand, should I live to be an old man, this record of my career will furnish me with material for a more complete autobiography, and will serve as a safeguard against a failing memory.

the trees and other plants in a large densely wooded area

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

everything that exists anywhere

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

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

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

produce a literary work

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

set down in writing in any of various ways

From this reading But the profession to which I belong, which is that of a soldier, and which is the noblest profession a man can follow, is a hazardous one, and were I to delay until to-morrow to write down what I have seen and done, these memoirs might never be written, for, such being the fortune of war, to-morrow might not come.

a unit of length equal to 3 feet; defined as 91.44 centimeters; originally taken to be the average length of a stride

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.

a late time of life

From this reading So I propose to tell now of the little I have accomplished in the first twenty-three years of my life, and, from month to month, to add to these memoirs in order that, should I be suddenly taken off, my debit and credit pages may be found carefully written up to date and carried forward.

the person or people being spoken to

From this reading {Illustration: “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”} ILLUSTRATIONS (not available in this file) “Go, Royal!” he cried, “and--God bless you!”

(used of living things especially persons) in an early period of life or development or growth

From this reading FRONTISPIECE He made our meeting something of a ceremony We walked out to the woods I was sure life in Sagua la Grande would always suit me The moon rose over the camp ... but still we sat And the next instant I fell sprawling inside the barrack yard I sprang back against the cabin It may seem presumptuous that so young a man as myself should propose to write his life and memoirs, for, as a rule, one waits until he has accomplished something in the world, or until he has reached old age, before he ventures to tell of the times in which he has lived, and of his part in them.