used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
Abenakis
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
(usually followed by “to”) having the necessary means or skill or know-how or authority to do something
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
aboutprepositionUS /əˈbaʊt/
on the subject of; concerning
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
farther along in physical or mental development
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
afterprepositionUS /ˈæftər/
later than; following
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
(quantifier) used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
in addition
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
ammunitionnounUS /ˌæmjəˈnɪʃən/
projectiles to be fired from a gun
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
one or some or every or all without specification
From this reading The others would have served faithfully, of that there was no question; but none of them were so expert with a musket as to be counted on for any great execution.
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
assaultnounUS /əˈsɔːlt/
close fighting during the culmination of a military attack
From this reading The fact that they had been able to resist the first assault did not give him encouragement for the future.
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
(military) an offensive against an enemy (using weapons)
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/
the past participle of “be”
From this reading The fact that they had been able to resist the first assault did not give him encouragement for the future.
take something or somebody with oneself somewhere
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
having great (or a certain) extent from one side to the other
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
exercising caution or showing care or attention
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
plural of “cloud” — any collection of particles (e.g., smoke or dust) or gases that is visible
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
countedverbUS /ˈkaʊntɪd/
past form of “count” — determine the number or amount of
From this reading The others would have served faithfully, of that there was no question; but none of them were so expert with a musket as to be counted on for any great execution.
attractive especially by means of smallness or prettiness or quaintness
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
time for Earth to make a complete rotation on its axis
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
dependedverbUS /dɪˈpendəd/
past form of “depend” — be contingent upon (something that is elided)
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
didauxiliary verbUS /dɪd/
the past form of “do”, used in questions and negatives
From this reading The fact that they had been able to resist the first assault did not give him encouragement for the future.
being or moving lower in position or less in some value
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
all through a period, or at some point within it
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
encouragementnounUS /enˈkɜːrɪdʒmənt/
the expression of approval and support
From this reading The fact that they had been able to resist the first assault did not give him encouragement for the future.
constituting the full quantity or extent; complete
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
executionnounUS /ˌeksəˈkjuːʃən/
putting a condemned person to death
From this reading The others would have served faithfully, of that there was no question; but none of them were so expert with a musket as to be counted on for any great execution.
expansenounUS /ɪkˈspæns/
a wide scope
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
considered likely or probable to happen or arrive
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
expertadjectiveUS /ˈekspərt/
having or showing knowledge and skill and aptitude
From this reading The others would have served faithfully, of that there was no question; but none of them were so expert with a musket as to be counted on for any great execution.
a piece of information about circumstances that exist or events that have occurred
From this reading The fact that they had been able to resist the first assault did not give him encouragement for the future.
faithfullyadverbUS /ˈfeɪθfəli/
in a faithful manner
From this reading The others would have served faithfully, of that there was no question; but none of them were so expert with a musket as to be counted on for any great execution.
firstadjectiveUS /fɜːrst/
preceding all others in time or space or degree
From this reading The fact that they had been able to resist the first assault did not give him encouragement for the future.
foenounUS /foʊ/
an armed adversary (especially a member of an opposing military force)
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
fognounUS /fɑːɡ/
droplets of water vapor suspended in the air near the ground
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
foolishlyadverbUS /ˈfuːlɪʃli/
without good sense or judgment
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading The fact that they had been able to resist the first assault did not give him encouragement for the future.
showing where something starts, or who sent it
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
containing as much or as many as is possible or normal
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
yet to be or coming
From this reading The fact that they had been able to resist the first assault did not give him encouragement for the future.
assemble or get together
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
cause to have, in the abstract sense or physical sense
From this reading The fact that they had been able to resist the first assault did not give him encouragement for the future.
relatively large in size or number or extent; larger than others of its kind
From this reading The others would have served faithfully, of that there was no question; but none of them were so expert with a musket as to be counted on for any great execution.
a person who keeps watch over something or someone
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/
the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect
From this reading The fact that they had been able to resist the first assault did not give him encouragement for the future.
harborverbUS /ˈhɑːrbər/
maintain (a theory, thoughts, or feelings)
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/
used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses
From this reading The others would have served faithfully, of that there was no question; but none of them were so expert with a musket as to be counted on for any great execution.
a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
the male already mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading The fact that they had been able to resist the first assault did not give him encouragement for the future.
used when the man or boy doing the action is also its object
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
on condition that; in the event that
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
plural of “indian” — a native or inhabitant of India
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/
moving to the inside of something
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
a land mass (smaller than a continent) that is surrounded by water
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
(especially of promises or contracts) not violated or disregarded
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
inflected form of “know” — be cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information; possess knowledge or information about
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
immediately past
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
go away from a place
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
of comparatively little physical weight or density
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
primarily temporal sense; being or indicating a relatively great or greater than average duration or passage of time or a duration as specified
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
LukenounUS /luːk/
(New Testament) the Apostle closely associated with St. Paul and traditionally assumed to be the author of the third Gospel
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
produced by a manufacturing process
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
attach a tag or label to
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
leniency and compassion shown toward offenders by a person or agency charged with administering justice
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
the natural satellite of the Earth
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
murderousadjectiveUS /ˈmɜːrdərəs/
characteristic of or capable of or having a tendency toward killing another human being
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
musketnounUS /ˈmʌskət/
a muzzle-loading shoulder gun with a long barrel; formerly used by infantrymen
From this reading The others would have served faithfully, of that there was no question; but none of them were so expert with a musket as to be counted on for any great execution.
muskets
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
immediately following in time or order
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
not any; not one
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
not one, and not any
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
used to join alternatives or possibilities
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
a judge of a probate court
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
others
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The others would have served faithfully, of that there was no question; but none of them were so expert with a musket as to be counted on for any great execution.
overprepositionUS /ˈoʊvər/
above and across; more than
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
(plural) any group of human beings (men or women or children) collectively
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
plural of “person” — a human being
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
participate in games or sport
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
past form of “provide” — give something useful or necessary to
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
challenge the accuracy, probity, or propriety of
From this reading The others would have served faithfully, of that there was no question; but none of them were so expert with a musket as to be counted on for any great execution.
successfully completed or brought to an end
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
reasonableadjectiveUS /ˈriːzənəbəl/
showing reason or sound judgment
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
repulseverbUS /riˈpʌls/
force or drive back
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
resistverbUS /rɪˈzɪst/
elude, especially in a baffling way
From this reading The fact that they had been able to resist the first assault did not give him encouragement for the future.
scoundrelsnounUS /ˈskaʊndrəlz/
plural of “scoundrel” — a wicked or evil person; someone who does evil deliberately
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
secretlyadverbUS /ˈsiːkrɪtli/
in secrecy; not openly
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
perceive by sight or have the power to perceive by sight
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
past form of “serve” — serve a purpose, role, or function
From this reading The others would have served faithfully, of that there was no question; but none of them were so expert with a musket as to be counted on for any great execution.
settle into a position, usually on a surface or ground
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
used to say what is right, expected, or advisable
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
siegenounUS /siːdʒ/
the action of an armed force that surrounds a fortified place and isolates it while continuing to attack
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
the cardinal number that is the sum of five and one
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
for that reason; with the result that
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
stockadenounUS /ˈstɑːkeɪd/
fortification consisting of a fence made of a line of stout posts set firmly for defense
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
Maintained an upright posture.
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
of a quantity that can fulfill a need or requirement but without being abundant
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
express a supposition
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
Susan
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
SUSPENSEnounUS /səˈspens/
apprehension about what is going to happen
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
an acknowledgment of appreciation
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
belonging to the people or things already mentioned
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
the people or things already mentioned, as the object
From this reading The others would have served faithfully, of that there was no question; but none of them were so expert with a musket as to be counted on for any great execution.
subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors)
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
in or at that place or location
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one and one
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
the cognitive condition of someone who understands
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
uponprepositionUS /əˈpɑːn/
a formal word for “on”
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
veritynounUS /ˈverəti/
conformity to reality or actuality
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
plural of “wall” — an architectural partition with a height and length greater than its thickness; used to divide or enclose an area or to support another structure
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
wastedadjectiveUS /ˈweɪstɪd/
serving no useful purpose; having no excuse for being
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
look attentively
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
binary compound that occurs at room temperature as a clear colorless odorless tasteless liquid; freezes into ice below 0 degrees centigrade and boils above 100 degrees centigrade; widely used as a solvent
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
United States actress and singer (1896-1977)
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
(often used as a combining form) in a good or proper or satisfactory manner or to a high standard (“good” is a nonstandard dialectal variant for “well”)
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/
the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
used to ask for information about something
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
at the time that
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
WhileconjunctionUS /waɪl/
during the time that
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
a Caucasian
From this reading The Indians had advanced foolishly, understanding that the white people knew full well what they were about, and after this first repulse it was reasonable to suppose the murderous scoundrels would bring all their cunning into play when the next attack was made.
the form of “who” used as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
in the company of; together with
From this reading The others would have served faithfully, of that there was no question; but none of them were so expert with a musket as to be counted on for any great execution.
used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past
From this reading A DAY OF SUSPENSE While Mark stood on guard, able to see the entire broad expanse of water, thanks to the light of the moon, he knew that so long as a careful watch was kept the Abenakis could not leave the harbor island secretly; but he also realized that if the clouds should gather, or a fog settle down over the waters, then, of a verity, would they be at the mercy of a foe from whom no mercy could be expected.
but in spite of that
From this reading There were six muskets in the stockade, and ammunition sufficient to last during an ordinary siege, provided none was wasted, yet but three persons--Susan, Luke, and himself--could be depended upon to man the walls.
