Learn English through classic literature • Five-line readings • Clear US narration
VELMORA ACADEMY
Academy of Archival Languages & Memory Studies
Menu Close
David Copperfield
David Copperfield

Chapter III · Chapter 3

Chapter 3 of David Copperfield is here in full — 787 sentences across 158 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Cover illustration for David Copperfield
Context Illustration Reading 1/157 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.
I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.
I thought of the oddest things.
Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.
I was crying all the time, but, except that I was conscious of being cold and dejected, I am sure I never thought why I cried.
0:00 / 0:00
Speed 0.75x
AI-generated narration by OpenAI · Slow US English
LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

David Copperfield

Chapter III · Chapter 3

Chapter 3 of David Copperfield is here in full — 787 sentences across 158 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/157 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.
Line 2
I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.
Line 3
I thought of the oddest things.
Line 4
Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.
Line 5
I was crying all the time, but, except that I was conscious of being cold and dejected, I am sure I never thought why I cried.

All words in this reading · 108

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.

a

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

about

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

after

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

all

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

am

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

From this reading I was crying all the time, but, except that I was conscious of being cold and dejected, I am sure I never thought why I cried.

and

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

appeal

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

as

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

at

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

bark

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

bear

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

bed

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

being

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

blank

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

but

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

From this reading I was crying all the time, but, except that I was conscious of being cold and dejected, I am sure I never thought why I cried.

carried

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

ceiling

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

climbed

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

cold

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

From this reading I was crying all the time, but, except that I was conscious of being cold and dejected, I am sure I never thought why I cried.

conscious

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

From this reading I was crying all the time, but, except that I was conscious of being cold and dejected, I am sure I never thought why I cried.

could

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

cracks

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

cried

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

From this reading I was crying all the time, but, except that I was conscious of being cold and dejected, I am sure I never thought why I cried.

crossed

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

crying

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

From this reading I was crying all the time, but, except that I was conscious of being cold and dejected, I am sure I never thought why I cried.

day

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

dejected

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

From this reading I was crying all the time, but, except that I was conscious of being cold and dejected, I am sure I never thought why I cried.

dimples

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

discontented

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

dog

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

down

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

evidence

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

except

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

From this reading I was crying all the time, but, except that I was conscious of being cold and dejected, I am sure I never thought why I cried.

flaws

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

for

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

give

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

Gummidge

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

hands

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

having

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

hearing

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

heart

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

heavy

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

I

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

If

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

in

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

influence

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

it

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

its

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

legs

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

looked

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

looking

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

making

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

me

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

might

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

Mrs

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

my

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

never

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

From this reading I was crying all the time, but, except that I was conscious of being cold and dejected, I am sure I never thought why I cried.

now

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

oddest

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

From this reading I thought of the oddest things.

of

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

From this reading I thought of the oddest things.

old

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

on

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

one

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

paper

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

prospect

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

reminded

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

removed

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

rickety

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

ripples

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

room

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

sat

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

sentient

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

shape

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

sleeps

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

small

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

something

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

stairs

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

strange

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

sure

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

From this reading I was crying all the time, but, except that I was conscious of being cold and dejected, I am sure I never thought why I cried.

that

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

the

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

there

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

thing

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

things

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

From this reading I thought of the oddest things.

this

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

thought

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

three

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

time

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

From this reading I was crying all the time, but, except that I was conscious of being cold and dejected, I am sure I never thought why I cried.

to

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

under

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

up

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

upon

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

walls

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

was

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

washing-stand

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

way

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

went

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

were

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

what

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

which

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

while

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

who

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

why

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

From this reading I was crying all the time, but, except that I was conscious of being cold and dejected, I am sure I never thought why I cried.

window-glass

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

From this reading Of the shape of the room, of the cracks in the ceiling, of the paper on the walls, of the flaws in the window-glass making ripples and dimples on the prospect, of the washing-stand being rickety on its three legs, and having a discontented something about it, which reminded me of Mrs. Gummidge under the influence of the old one.

with

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

witness

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

wonder

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

From this reading If the room to which my bed was removed were a sentient thing that could give evidence, I might appeal to it at this day--who sleeps there now, I wonder!--to bear witness for me what a heavy heart I carried to it.

yard

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

From this reading I went up there, hearing the dog in the yard bark after me all the way while I climbed the stairs; and, looking as blank and strange upon the room as the room looked upon me, sat down with my small hands crossed, and thought.

Chapter 3 of David Copperfield by Charles Dickens holds 787 sentences, grouped into 158 reading sections of at most 5 sentences. The text is the public-domain source, 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 3 of David Copperfield contain?

Chapter 3 holds 787 sentences of David Copperfield, unabridged, divided into 158 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 3 of David Copperfield by Charles Dickens exactly as it stands in the public-domain source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 787 sentences, grouped into 158 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 3 of David Copperfield?

Work through the 158 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 158 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 3 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 3 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 David Copperfield

Common questions about reading David Copperfield by Charles Dickens on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of David Copperfield?

Yes. All 18139 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #766 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of David Copperfield is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #766, a public-domain edition. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does David Copperfield take to read?

About 600 minutes of reading across 3628 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read David Copperfield section by section

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

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 40 chapters of David Copperfield 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 David Copperfield

Words and structures a reader meets early in David Copperfield, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Whether
A word that appears in the opening chapter of David Copperfield; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Shall
A word that appears in the opening chapter of David Copperfield; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Station
A word that appears in the opening chapter of David Copperfield; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Anybody
A word that appears in the opening chapter of David Copperfield; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.