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Constance Sherwood
Constance Sherwood

Chapter XII

Chapter 12 of Constance Sherwood is here in full — 205 sentences across 41 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

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Context Illustration Reading 1/41 · 5 lines
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It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.
But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.
It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.
But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.
So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

Constance Sherwood

Chapter XII

Chapter 12 of Constance Sherwood is here in full — 205 sentences across 41 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/41 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.
/ɪt wɑːz sʌm taɪm bɪˈfɔːr aɪ kʊd rɪˈstɔːr ˌmaɪˈself tuː maɪ ˈkaʊntənəns ˈæftər soʊ mʌtʃ ˈmuːvɪŋ ˈdɪskɔːrs soʊ æz tuː dʒɔɪn wɪð ˈspɪrət ɪn ðə spɔːrts ənd ðə ˈdænsɪŋ wɪtʃ dɪd ɪnˈsuː əˈmʌŋ ðə jʌŋ ˈpiːpəl ðæt ˈiːvnɪŋ/
Line 2
But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.
Line 3
It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.
Line 4
But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.
Line 5
So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

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.

ambling verb US /ˈæmbəlɪŋ/

-ing form of “amble” — walk leisurely

From this reading “But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.”

ensue verb US /ɪnˈsuː/

issue or terminate (in a specified way, state, etc.); end

From this reading “It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.”

imprudence noun US /ˌɪmˈpruːdəns/

a lack of caution in practical affairs

From this reading “So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.”

lured verb US /lʊrd/

past form of “lure” — provoke someone to do something through (often false or exaggerated) promises or persuasion

From this reading “But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.”

pastimes noun US /ˈpæstaɪmz/

plural of “pastime” — a diversion that occupies one's time and thoughts (usually pleasantly)

From this reading “But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.”

tattle verb US /ˈtætəl/

speak (about unimportant matters) rapidly and incessantly

From this reading “But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.”

themes noun US /θiːmz/

plural of “theme” — the subject matter of a conversation or discussion

From this reading “But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.”

unrestrained adjective US /ˌʌnriˈstreɪnd/

not subject to restraint

From this reading “But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.”

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.

innocent pleasure adjective + noun

In this reading “It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.”

some sort adjective + noun

In this reading “But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.”

young people adjective + noun

In this reading “It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.”

drink deeply verb + particle

In this reading “It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.”

some time adjective + noun

In this reading “It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.”

with eagerness preposition + noun

In this reading “It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.”

gave place verb + noun counted as “give place”

In this reading “But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.”

All words in this reading · 118

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 But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

afterprepositionUS /ˈæftər/

later than; following

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

alack

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

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

amblingverbUS /ˈæmbəlɪŋ/

-ing form of “amble” — walk leisurely

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

amongprepositionUS /əˈmʌŋ/

surrounded by; in the middle of a group

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

beforeprepositionUS /bɪˈfɔːr/

earlier than; in front of

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

beganverbUS /bɪˈɡæn/

inflected form of “begin” — take the first step or steps in carrying out an action

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

blameableadjective

deserving blame or censure as being wrong or evil or injurious

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

bridlenounUS /ˈbraɪdəl/

headgear for a horse; includes a headstall and bit and reins to give the rider or driver control

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

ButconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

castverbUS /kæst/

put or send forth

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

cheerfuladjectiveUS /ˈtʃɪrfəl/

being full of or promoting cheer; having or showing good spirits

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

choicenounUS /tʃɔɪs/

the person or thing chosen or selected

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

conversationnounUS /ˌkɑːnvərˈseɪʃən/

the use of speech for informal exchange of views or ideas or information etc.

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

couldmodal verbUS /kʊd/

the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

countenancenounUS /ˈkaʊntənəns/

the appearance conveyed by a person's face

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

dancingnounUS /ˈdænsɪŋ/

taking a series of rhythmical steps (and movements) in time to music

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

deeplyadverbUS /ˈdiːpli/

to a great depth psychologically or emotionally

From this reading It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.

didauxiliary verbUS /dɪd/

the past form of “do”, used in questions and negatives

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

discoursenounUS /ˈdɪskɔːrs/

extended verbal expression in speech or writing

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

discretionnounUS /dɪˈskreʃən/

freedom to act or judge on one's own

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

drinkverbUS /drɪŋk/

take in liquids

From this reading It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.

eagernessnounUS /ˈiːɡərnəs/

a positive feeling of wanting to push ahead with something

From this reading It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.

endsnounUS /endz/

plural of “end” — either extremity of something that has length

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

enjoyedverbUS /ˌenˈdʒɔɪd/

past form of “enjoy” — derive or receive pleasure from; get enjoyment from; take pleasure in

From this reading It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.

enjoymentnounUS /ˌenˈdʒɔɪmənt/

the pleasure felt when having a good time

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

ensueverbUS /ɪnˈsuː/

issue or terminate (in a specified way, state, etc.); end

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

eveningnounUS /ˈiːvnɪŋ/

the latter part of the day (the period of decreasing daylight from late afternoon until nightfall)

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

existverbUS /ɪɡˈzɪst/

have an existence, be extant

From this reading It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.

follynounUS /ˈfɑːli/

the trait of acting stupidly or rashly

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

formedadjectiveUS /fɔːrmd/

having or given a form or shape

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

gallopping

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

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

gaveverbUS /ɡeɪv/

inflected form of “give” — cause to have, in the abstract sense or physical sense

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

gayadjectiveUS /ɡeɪ/

bright and pleasant; promoting a feeling of cheer

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

gentleadjectiveUS /ˈdʒentəl/

soft and mild; not harsh or stern or severe

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

harmnounUS /hɑːrm/

any physical damage to the body caused by violence or accident or fracture etc.

From this reading It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.

horsenounUS /hɔːrs/

solid-hoofed herbivorous quadruped domesticated since prehistoric times

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

humornounUS /ˈhjuːmər/

a message whose ingenuity or verbal skill or incongruity has the power to evoke laughter

From this reading It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.

IpronounUS /aɪ/

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

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

ifconjunctionUS /ɪf/

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.

imprudencenounUS /ˌɪmˈpruːdəns/

a lack of caution in practical affairs

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

innocentadjectiveUS /ˈɪnəsənt/

free from evil or guilt

From this reading It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.

isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/

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

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

ItpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

joinverbUS /dʒɔɪn/

become part of; become a member of a group or organization

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

kindsnounUS /kaɪndz/

plural of “kind” — a category of things distinguished by some common characteristic or quality

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

lawfuladjectiveUS /ˈlɔːfəl/

conformable to or allowed by law

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

likeverbUS /laɪk/

prefer or wish to do something

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

luredverbUS /lʊrd/

past form of “lure” — provoke someone to do something through (often false or exaggerated) promises or persuasion

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

mepronounUS /miː/

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

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

merrimentnoun

a gay feeling

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

methinks

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

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

mightmodal verbUS /maɪt/

used to say something is possible but not certain

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

moderationnounUS /ˌmɑːdərˈeɪʃən/

quality of being moderate and avoiding extremes

From this reading It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.

movingadjectiveUS /ˈmuːvɪŋ/

in motion

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

muchadverbUS /mʌtʃ/

to a great degree or extent

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

musicnounUS /ˈmjuːzɪk/

an artistic form of auditory communication incorporating instrumental or vocal tones in a structured and continuous manner

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

mydeterminerUS /maɪ/

belonging to the person speaking

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

myselfpronounUS /ˌmaɪˈself/

used when the speaker is also the object of the action

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

necknounUS /nek/

the part of an organism (human or animal) that connects the head to the rest of the body

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

night'snounUS /naɪts/

possessive form of “night” — the time after sunset and before sunrise while it is dark outside

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

nodeterminerUS /noʊ/

not any; not one

From this reading It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

oftenadverbUS /ˈɔːfən/

many times at short intervals

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

onprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

painfuladjectiveUS /ˈpeɪnfəl/

causing physical or psychological pain

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

pastimenounUS /ˈpæstaɪm/

a diversion that occupies one's time and thoughts (usually pleasantly)

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

pastimesnounUS /ˈpæstaɪmz/

plural of “pastime” — a diversion that occupies one's time and thoughts (usually pleasantly)

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

peoplenounUS /ˈpiːpəl/

(plural) any group of human beings (men or women or children) collectively

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

placenounUS /pleɪs/

a point located with respect to surface features of some region

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

pleasurenounUS /ˈpleʒər/

a fundamental feeling that is hard to define but that people desire to experience

From this reading It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.

presentverbUS /ˈprezənt/

give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.

pursueverbUS /pərˈsuː/

carry out or participate in an activity; be involved in

From this reading It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.

ratheradverbUS /ˈræðər/

on the contrary

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

restoreverbUS /rɪˈstɔːr/

return to its original or usable and functioning condition

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

ringverbUS /rɪŋ/

sound loudly and sonorously

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

shouldmodal verbUS /ʃʊd/

used to say what is right, expected, or advisable

From this reading It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.

soconjunctionUS /soʊ/

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

soberadjectiveUS /ˈsoʊbər/

not affected by a chemical substance (especially alcohol)

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

someadjectiveUS /sʌm/

(quantifier) used with either mass nouns or plural count nouns to indicate an unspecified number or quantity

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

sortnounUS /sɔːrt/

a category of things distinguished by some common characteristic or quality

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

soundnounUS /saʊnd/

the particular auditory effect produced by a given cause

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

spiritnounUS /ˈspɪrət/

the vital principle or animating force within living things

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

sportsnounUS /spɔːrts/

plural of “sport” — an active diversion requiring physical exertion and competition

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

stepsnounUS /steps/

a flight of stairs or a flight of steps

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

stylenounUS /staɪl/

how something is done or how it happens

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

suchdeterminerUS /sʌtʃ/

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

takeverbUS /teɪk/

carry out

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

tattleverbUS /ˈtætəl/

speak (about unimportant matters) rapidly and incessantly

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

themesnounUS /θiːmz/

plural of “theme” — the subject matter of a conversation or discussion

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

thesedeterminerUS /ðiːz/

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

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

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

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

thoughtsnounUS /θɔːts/

plural of “thought” — the content of cognition; the main thing you are thinking about

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

timenounUS /taɪm/

an instance or single occasion for some event

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

tiredadjectiveUS /ˈtaɪərd/

depleted of strength or energy

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

tooadverbUS /tuː/

to a degree exceeding normal or proper limits

From this reading It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.

unbeseeming

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

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

unrestrainedadjectiveUS /ˌʌnriˈstreɪnd/

not subject to restraint

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

whatpronounUS /wʌt/

used to ask for information about something

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

whenconjunctionUS /wen/

at the time that

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

wherein

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

From this reading It was too much my wont to pursue with eagerness the present humor, and drink deeply of innocent pleasure wherein no harm should exist if enjoyed with moderation.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

whileconjunctionUS /waɪl/

during the time that

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

whosedeterminerUS /huːz/

belonging to which person

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

wildadjectiveUS /waɪld/

marked by extreme lack of restraint or control

From this reading But like in a horse on whose neck the bridle is cast, what began in a gentle ambling ends in wild gallopping; so lawful merriment, if unrestrained, often ends in what is unbeseeming, and in some sort blameable.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

wontnounUS /woʊnt/

an established custom

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

yieldedverbUS /ˈjiːldɪd/

past form of “yield” — be the cause or source of

From this reading So this time, when dancing tired, a ring was formed for conversation, and the choice of the night's pastime yielded to my discretion; alack, rather to my imprudence and folly, methinks I might style it.

youngadjectiveUS /jʌŋ/

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

From this reading It was some time before I could restore myself to my countenance, after so much moving discourse, so as to join with spirit in the sports and the dancing which did ensue among the young people that evening.

youthnounUS /juːθ/

a young person (especially a young man or boy)

From this reading But sober thoughts and painful themes after a while gave place to merriment; and the sound of music, gay tattle, and cheerful steps lured me to such enjoyment as youth is wont to take in these kinds of pastimes.

Chapter 12 of Constance Sherwood by Georgiana Fullerton holds 205 sentences, grouped into 41 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 12 of Constance Sherwood contain?

Chapter 12 holds 205 sentences of Constance Sherwood, unabridged, divided into 41 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 12 of Constance Sherwood by Georgiana Fullerton exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 205 sentences, grouped into 41 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 12 of Constance Sherwood?

Work through the 41 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 41 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.

Can chapter 12 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 12 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.

Questions about reading Constance Sherwood

Common questions about reading Constance Sherwood by Georgiana Fullerton on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of Constance Sherwood?

Yes. All 5603 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #40151 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of Constance Sherwood is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #40151, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does Constance Sherwood take to read?

About 466 minutes of reading across 1121 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read Constance Sherwood section by section

How to work through Constance Sherwood section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 28 chapters of Constance Sherwood to begin.

  2. Read one section

    Each section holds 5 sentences; read it once through.

  3. Listen and tap

    Play the section aloud, then tap any unfamiliar word for its entry.

Vocabulary met early in Constance Sherwood

Words and structures a reader meets early in Constance Sherwood, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Thought
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Constance Sherwood; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Write
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Constance Sherwood; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Story
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Constance Sherwood; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Wishes
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Constance Sherwood; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.