Chapter I · Chapter 1

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

(of actions or states) slightly short of or not quite accomplished; all but

From this reading The north-easter, which for three days had blown strongly, had now died away, and the placid waters of the harbour shimmered under the starlight of an almost cloudless sky.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

past form of “anchor” — fix firmly and stably

From this reading The _Policy_ was anchored between the Cove and Pinchgut, ready for sea.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

elected vice president and became 21st President of the United States when Garfield was assassinated (1830-1886)

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

past form of “ask” — make a request or demand for something to somebody

From this reading Stepping to the break of the poop, the officer hailed the look-out forward, and asked if he could see the captain's boat coming.

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

From this reading The north-easter, which for three days had blown strongly, had now died away, and the placid waters of the harbour shimmered under the starlight of an almost cloudless sky.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

plural of “barrack” — a building or group of buildings used to house military personnel

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

an indentation of a shoreline larger than a cove but smaller than a gulf

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

the past participle of “be”

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

earlier than; in front of

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

in the space, time, or range separating two things

From this reading The _Policy_ was anchored between the Cove and Pinchgut, ready for sea.

being moved or acted upon by moving air or vapor

From this reading The north-easter, which for three days had blown strongly, had now died away, and the placid waters of the harbour shimmered under the starlight of an almost cloudless sky.

a small vessel for travel on water

From this reading Stepping to the break of the poop, the officer hailed the look-out forward, and asked if he could see the captain's boat coming.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

terminate

From this reading Stepping to the break of the poop, the officer hailed the look-out forward, and asked if he could see the captain's boat coming.

a brass instrument without valves; used for military calls and fanfares

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

a degree on the centigrade scale of temperature

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

plural of “call” — a telephone connection

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

possessive form of “captain” — an officer holding a rank below a major but above a lieutenant

From this reading Stepping to the break of the poop, the officer hailed the look-out forward, and asked if he could see the captain's boat coming.

inflected form of “catch” — discover or come upon accidentally, suddenly, or unexpectedly; catch somebody doing something or in a certain state

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

rid of obstructions

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

free from clouds

From this reading The north-easter, which for three days had blown strongly, had now died away, and the placid waters of the harbour shimmered under the starlight of an almost cloudless sky.

plural of “cloud” — any collection of particles (e.g., smoke or dust) or gases that is visible

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

the act of drawing spatially closer to something

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

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

From this reading Stepping to the break of the poop, the officer hailed the look-out forward, and asked if he could see the captain's boat coming.

a small inlet

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

the time during which someone's life continues

From this reading The north-easter, which for three days had blown strongly, had now died away, and the placid waters of the harbour shimmered under the starlight of an almost cloudless sky.

any of various platforms built into a vessel

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

forsaken by owner or inhabitants

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

past form of “die” — pass from physical life and lose all bodily attributes and functions necessary to sustain life

From this reading The north-easter, which for three days had blown strongly, had now died away, and the placid waters of the harbour shimmered under the starlight of an almost cloudless sky.

being or moving lower in position or less in some value

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

the organ of sight

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

deficient in magnitude; barely perceptible; lacking clarity or brightness or loudness etc

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

a quantifier that can be used with count nouns and is often preceded by “a”; a small but indefinite number

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

past form of “follow” — to travel behind, go after, come after

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading The _Policy_ was anchored between the Cove and Pinchgut, ready for sea.

at or to or toward the front

From this reading Stepping to the break of the poop, the officer hailed the look-out forward, and asked if he could see the captain's boat coming.

a medium size square-rigged warship of the 18th and 19th centuries

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

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

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

of an achromatic color of any lightness intermediate between the extremes of white and black

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

past form of “hail” — praise vociferously

From this reading Stepping to the break of the poop, the officer hailed the look-out forward, and asked if he could see the captain's boat coming.

secretly shelter (as of fugitives or criminals)

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

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

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

deep and harsh sounding as if from shouting or illness or emotion

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading Stepping to the break of the poop, the officer hailed the look-out forward, and asked if he could see the captain's boat coming.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

the first month of the year; begins 10 days after the winter solstice

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

past form of “jump” — move forward by leaps and bounds

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

having or demonstrating ability to recognize or draw fine distinctions

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

put into a certain place or abstract location

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

provided with artificial light

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

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

From this reading Stepping to the break of the poop, the officer hailed the look-out forward, and asked if he could see the captain's boat coming.

less than normal in degree or intensity or amount

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

the deliberate act of deviating from the truth

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

the officer below the master on a commercial ship

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

a pair of people who live together

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

the time period between dawn and noon

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

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

From this reading The north-easter, which for three days had blown strongly, had now died away, and the placid waters of the harbour shimmered under the starlight of an almost cloudless sky.

plural of “note” — a brief written record

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

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

From this reading The north-easter, which for three days had blown strongly, had now died away, and the placid waters of the harbour shimmered under the starlight of an almost cloudless sky.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

any person in the armed services who holds a position of authority or command

From this reading Stepping to the break of the poop, the officer hailed the look-out forward, and asked if he could see the captain's boat coming.

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

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

above and across; more than

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

the rate of moving (especially walking or running)

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

a niggardly person who starves himself (and others)

From this reading The _Policy_ was anchored between the Cove and Pinchgut, ready for sea.

(of a body of water) free from disturbance by heavy waves

From this reading The north-easter, which for three days had blown strongly, had now died away, and the placid waters of the harbour shimmered under the starlight of an almost cloudless sky.

a plan of action adopted by an individual or social group

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

obscene terms for feces

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

completely prepared or in condition for immediate action or use or progress

From this reading The _Policy_ was anchored between the Cove and Pinchgut, ready for sea.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

advancing or becoming higher or greater in degree or value or status

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

a division of an ocean or a large body of salt water partially enclosed by land

From this reading The _Policy_ was anchored between the Cove and Pinchgut, ready for sea.

possessive form of “seaman” — a man who serves as a sailor

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

perceive by sight or have the power to perceive by sight

From this reading Stepping to the break of the poop, the officer hailed the look-out forward, and asked if he could see the captain's boat coming.

past form of “shimmer” — shine with a weak or fitful light

From this reading The north-easter, which for three days had blown strongly, had now died away, and the placid waters of the harbour shimmered under the starlight of an almost cloudless sky.

having or emitting a high-pitched and sharp tone or tones

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

an instance of visual perception

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

plural of “sign” — a perceptible indication of something not immediately apparent (as a visible clue that something has happened)

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

the atmosphere and outer space as viewed from the earth

From this reading The north-easter, which for three days had blown strongly, had now died away, and the placid waters of the harbour shimmered under the starlight of an almost cloudless sky.

a window in a roof to admit daylight

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

the act of smoking tobacco or other substances

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

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

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

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

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

the light of the stars

From this reading The north-easter, which for three days had blown strongly, had now died away, and the placid waters of the harbour shimmered under the starlight of an almost cloudless sky.

inflected form of “step” — shift or move by taking a step

From this reading Stepping to the break of the poop, the officer hailed the look-out forward, and asked if he could see the captain's boat coming.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

plural of “story” — a message that tells the particulars of an act or occurrence or course of events; presented in writing or drama or cinema or as a radio or television program

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

with strength or in a strong manner

From this reading The north-easter, which for three days had blown strongly, had now died away, and the placid waters of the harbour shimmered under the starlight of an almost cloudless sky.

the largest Australian city located in southeastern Australia on the Tasman Sea; state capital of New South Wales; Australia's chief port

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

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

From this reading The north-easter, which for three days had blown strongly, had now died away, and the placid waters of the harbour shimmered under the starlight of an almost cloudless sky.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

past form of “tramp” — travel on foot, especially on a walking expedition

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

below or beneath something; less than

From this reading The north-easter, which for three days had blown strongly, had now died away, and the placid waters of the harbour shimmered under the starlight of an almost cloudless sky.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

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

From this reading The _Policy_ was anchored between the Cove and Pinchgut, ready for sea.

United States actress and singer (1896-1977)

From this reading The north-easter, which for three days had blown strongly, had now died away, and the placid waters of the harbour shimmered under the starlight of an almost cloudless sky.

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

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

toward the west

From this reading As the old mate tramped to and fro on the deserted poop, his keen seaman's eye caught sight of some faint grey clouds rising low down in the westward--signs of a south-easterly coming before the morning.

a seaman who works on a ship that hunts whales

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

plural of “whaler” — a seaman who works on a ship that hunts whales

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

in or at the place that

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.

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

From this reading The north-easter, which for three days had blown strongly, had now died away, and the placid waters of the harbour shimmered under the starlight of an almost cloudless sky.

plural of “whistle” — the sound made by something moving rapidly or by steam coming out of a small aperture

From this reading From “The Tapu Of Banderah and Other Stories” C. Arthur Pearson Ltd. One by one the riding-lights of the few store-ships and whalers lying in Sydney Harbour on an evening in January, 1802, were lit, and as the clear notes of a bugle from the barracks pealed over the bay, followed by the hoarse calls and shrill whistles of the boatswains' mates on a frigate that lay in Sydney Cove, the mate of the _Policy_ whaler jumped up from the skylight where he had been lying smoking, and began to pace the deck.