Chapter XXXII · Chapter 32

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

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

later than; following

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

Extreme physical or mental suffering; intense anguish.

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

(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 But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

of the greatest importance

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

Having no one else present.

From this reading Ralph Colleton was once more in his dungeon--alone and without hope.

at all times; all the time and on every occasion

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

surrounded by; in the middle of a group

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

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

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

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

From this reading PRAYERS AND PROMISES.

one or some or every or all without specification

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

outward or visible aspect of a person or thing

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

a distinct feature or element in a problem

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

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

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

a natural or artificial enclosed space

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

cause to change; make different; cause a transformation

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

being attentive to women like an ideal knight

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

a condition that accompanies or influences some event or activity

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

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

From this reading Ralph Colleton was once more in his dungeon--alone and without hope.

inflected form of “compel” — force somebody to do something

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

an alert cognitive state in which you are aware of yourself and your situation

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

the process of giving careful thought to something

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

possessing or displaying courage; able to face and deal with danger or fear without flinching

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

the event of dying or departure from life

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

past form of “deem” — keep in mind or convey as a conviction or view

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

the quality of being beautiful and delicate in appearance

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

causing destruction or much damage

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

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

From this reading He did so at his own self-sacrifice!

being or moving lower in position or less in some value

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

the main tower within the walls of a medieval castle or fortress

From this reading Ralph Colleton was once more in his dungeon--alone and without hope.

all through a period, or at some point within it

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

(comparative and superlative of “early”) more early than; most early

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

the act of escaping physically

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

divisible by two

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

to a considerable degree; very much

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

bringing death

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

with fatal consequences or implications

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

encouraging or approving or pleasing

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

associated with women and not with men

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

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

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

to or at a greater extent or degree or a more advanced stage (“further” is used more often than “farther” in this abstract sense)

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

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

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

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

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

detected or perceived by the sense of hearing

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

greater than normal in degree or intensity or amount

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

the male already mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

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

From this reading Ralph Colleton was once more in his dungeon--alone and without hope.

a tangible symbol signifying approval or distinction

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

a specific instance of feeling hopeful

From this reading Ralph Colleton was once more in his dungeon--alone and without hope.

a period of time equal to 1/24th of a day

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

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

From this reading Ralph Colleton was once more in his dungeon--alone and without hope.

be or come between

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

used to form the comparative of some adjectives and adverbs

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

plural of “lesson” — a unit of instruction

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

plural of “lip” — either of two fleshy folds of tissue that surround the mouth and play a role in speaking

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

incomplete skeleton of female found in eastern Ethiopia in 1974

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

an unmarried girl (especially a virgin)

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

how something is done or how it happens

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

used to say something is possible but not certain

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

The element of a person that enables awareness and thought.

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

plural of “mind” — that which is responsible for one's thoughts, feelings, and conscious brain functions; the seat of the faculty of reason

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

a particular point in time

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

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

From this reading Ralph Colleton was once more in his dungeon--alone and without hope.

used to form the superlative

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

used to say something is necessary, or almost certainly true

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

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 But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

the time after sunset and before sunrise while it is dark outside

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

a tangible and visible entity; an entity that can cast a shadow

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

on one occasion

From this reading Ralph Colleton was once more in his dungeon--alone and without hope.

have ownership or possession of

From this reading He did so at his own self-sacrifice!

detected by instinct or inference rather than by recognized perceptual cues

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

capable of happening or existing

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

by chance

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

plural of “prayer” — the act of communicating with a deity (especially as a petition or in adoration or contrition or thanksgiving)

From this reading PRAYERS AND PROMISES.

keep from happening or arising; make impossible

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

with considerable certainty; without much doubt

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

gradual improvement or growth or development

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

plural of “promise” — a verbal commitment by one person to another agreeing to do (or not to do) something in the future

From this reading PRAYERS AND PROMISES.

past form of “prompt” — give an incentive for action

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

peculiarly fortunate or appropriate; as if by divine intervention

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

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

From this reading Ralph Colleton was once more in his dungeon--alone and without hope.

a calm, lengthy, intent consideration

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

the state of being held in high esteem and honor

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

cut with a saw

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

acting with less concern for yourself than for the success of the joint activity

From this reading He did so at his own self-sacrifice!

a general conscious awareness

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

activities associated with sexual intercourse

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading He did so at his own self-sacrifice!

an extended social group having a distinctive cultural and economic organization

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

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

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

the immaterial part of a person; the actuating cause of an individual life

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

the region of the United States lying to the south of the Mason-Dixon line

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

not in physical motion

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

undergo or be subjected to

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

inflected form of “teach” — impart skills or knowledge to

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

a solemn statement made under oath

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

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

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

any movable possession (especially articles of clothing)

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

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

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

in spite of the fact that

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

the content of cognition; the main thing you are thinking about

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

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

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

to a degree exceeding normal or proper limits

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

the act of testing something

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

the use of uttered sounds for auditory communication

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

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

From this reading Ralph Colleton was once more in his dungeon--alone and without hope.

careful consideration

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

used to ask for information about something

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

at the time that

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

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

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

which person or people

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

not having, not using, or not accompanied by

From this reading Ralph Colleton was once more in his dungeon--alone and without hope.

someone who sees an event and reports what happened

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

exert oneself by doing mental or physical work for a purpose or out of necessity

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

(comparative of “bad”) inferior to another in quality or condition or desirability

From this reading For a moment during the progress of his trial, and at the appearance of Lucy, he deemed it possible that some providential fortune might work a change in the aspect of things, favorable to his escape from what, to his mind, was far worse than any thought of death, in the manner of his death.

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

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.

a young person (especially a young man or boy)

From this reading But when, after a moment of reflection, he perceived that the feminine delicacy of the maiden must suffer from any further testimony from her lips--when he saw that, most probably, in the minds of all who heard her narration, the circumstance of her appearance in his chamber and at such an hour of the night, and for any object, would be fatal to her reputation--when he perceived this consciousness, too, weighing down even to agony the soul of the still courageous witness--the high sense of honor which had always prompted him, not less than that chivalrous consideration of the sex taught in the south among the earliest lessons of society to its youth--compelled him to interpose, and prevent, if possible, all further utterance, which, though possibly all-important to him, would be fatally destructive to her.