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Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes
Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes

Chapter VII · Chapter 7

Chapter 7 of Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes is here in full — 82 sentences across 17 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Cover illustration for Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes
Context Illustration Reading 1/16 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.
It was the domain of the ladies engaged in Departments 30 to 45, and was managed by an elected committee of their number.
Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.
A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.
Above the fireplace was a fine mirror, and Hugo was personally engaged in pasting on the mirror a fine and effective poster, which ran as follows:
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AI-generated narration by OpenAI · Slow US English
LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes

Chapter VII · Chapter 7

Chapter 7 of Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes is here in full — 82 sentences across 17 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/16 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.
Line 2
It was the domain of the ladies engaged in Departments 30 to 45, and was managed by an elected committee of their number.
Line 3
Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.
/əˈfɪkst tuː ðə wɔːlz ɪn ənd aʊt əˈmʌŋ ðə ˈspesəmənz ʌv ˈɡræfɪk ɑːrt wɜːr kwaɪt ə lɑːt ʌv ˈlɪtəl red ˈdaɪmənd skwerz kənˈteɪnɪŋ ɪn waɪt ðə wɜːrdz duː ɪt naʊ ɪn ɪkˈsesɪvli ˈriːdəbəl ˈletərz/
Line 4
A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.
Line 5
Above the fireplace was a fine mirror, and Hugo was personally engaged in pasting on the mirror a fine and effective poster, which ran as follows:
/əˈbʌv ðə ˈfaɪərpleɪs wɑːz ə faɪn ˈmɪrər ənd ˈhjuːɡoʊ wɑːz ˈpɜːrsənəli enˈɡeɪdʒd ɪn ˈpeɪstɪŋ ɑːn ðə ˈmɪrər ə faɪn ənd ɪˈfektɪv ˈpoʊstər wɪtʃ ræn æz ˈfɑːloʊz/

Learner Dictionary

These definitions explain words found in the current reading and keep every example grounded in its original sentence.

Oxford-style entry order: headword, part of speech, US IPA, concise definition, contextual example, and audio.

balloting noun US /ˈbælətɪŋ/

a choice that is made by counting the number of people in favor of each alternative

From this reading “A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.”

bookcases noun US /ˈbʊkkeɪsɪz/

plural of “bookcase” — a piece of furniture with shelves for storing books

From this reading “ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.”

pasting verb US /ˈpeɪstɪŋ/

-ing form of “paste” — join or attach with or as if with glue

From this reading “Above the fireplace was a fine mirror, and Hugo was personally engaged in pasting on the mirror a fine and effective poster, which ran as follows:”

poster noun US /ˈpoʊstər/

a sign posted in a public place as an advertisement

From this reading “Above the fireplace was a fine mirror, and Hugo was personally engaged in pasting on the mirror a fine and effective poster, which ran as follows:”

readable adjective US /ˈriːdəbəl/

easily deciphered

From this reading “Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.”

reproductions noun US /ˌriːprəˈdʌkʃənz/

plural of “reproduction” — the process of generating offspring

From this reading “ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.”

Shoppers noun US /ˈʃɑːpərz/

plural of “shopper” — someone who visits stores in search of articles to buy

From this reading “A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.”

uplifting noun US /ˈʌplɪftɪŋ/

the rise of something

From this reading “ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.”

All words in this reading · 116

Every word in these five lines is listed here, and every one of them can be played on its own.

Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.

30

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

From this reading It was the domain of the ladies engaged in Departments 30 to 45, and was managed by an elected committee of their number.

45

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

From this reading It was the domain of the ladies engaged in Departments 30 to 45, and was managed by an elected committee of their number.

adeterminerUS /ə/

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

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

aboutprepositionUS /əˈbaʊt/

on the subject of; concerning

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

AboveprepositionUS /əˈbʌv/

higher than, or over, something

From this reading Above the fireplace was a fine mirror, and Hugo was personally engaged in pasting on the mirror a fine and effective poster, which ran as follows:

AffixedadjectiveUS /əˈfɪkst/

firmly attached

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

alladjectiveUS /ɔːl/

(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 ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

alsoadverbUS /ˈɔːlsoʊ/

in addition

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

amongprepositionUS /əˈmʌŋ/

surrounded by; in the middle of a group

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

andeterminerUS /æn/

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

From this reading It was the domain of the ladies engaged in Departments 30 to 45, and was managed by an elected committee of their number.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

apartmentnounUS /əˈpɑːrtmənt/

a suite of rooms usually on one floor of an apartment house

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

artauxiliary verbUS /ɑːrt/

an old form of “are”, used with “thou”

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading Above the fireplace was a fine mirror, and Hugo was personally engaged in pasting on the mirror a fine and effective poster, which ran as follows:

ballotingnounUS /ˈbælətɪŋ/

a choice that is made by counting the number of people in favor of each alternative

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

basementnounUS /ˈbeɪsmənt/

the lowermost portion of a structure partly or wholly below ground level; often used for storage

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/

the past participle of “be”

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

booknounUS /bʊk/

a written work or composition that has been published (printed on pages bound together)

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

bookcasesnounUS /ˈbʊkkeɪsɪz/

plural of “bookcase” — a piece of furniture with shelves for storing books

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

brightadjectiveUS /braɪt/

emitting or reflecting light readily or in large amounts

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading It was the domain of the ladies engaged in Departments 30 to 45, and was managed by an elected committee of their number.

chairsnounUS /tʃerz/

plural of “chair” — a seat for one person, with a support for the back

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

closingnounUS /ˈkloʊzɪŋ/

the act of closing something

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

committeenounUS /kəˈmɪti/

a special group delegated to consider some matter

From this reading It was the domain of the ladies engaged in Departments 30 to 45, and was managed by an elected committee of their number.

commonadjectiveUS /ˈkɑːmən/

belonging to or participated in by a community as a whole; public

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

containingverbUS /kənˈteɪnɪŋ/

-ing form of “contain” — include or contain; have as a component

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

daynounUS /deɪ/

time for Earth to make a complete rotation on its axis

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

DepartmentsnounUS /dɪˈpɑːrtmənts/

plural of “department” — a specialized division of a large organization

From this reading It was the domain of the ladies engaged in Departments 30 to 45, and was managed by an elected committee of their number.

devotedadjectiveUS /dɪˈvoʊtɪd/

zealous in devotion or affection

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

diamondnounUS /ˈdaɪmənd/

a transparent piece of diamond that has been cut and polished and is valued as a precious gem

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

diversionnounUS /daɪˈvɜːrʒən/

an activity that diverts or amuses or stimulates

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

Doauxiliary verbUS /duː/

used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

domainnounUS /doʊˈmeɪn/

a particular environment or walk of life

From this reading It was the domain of the ladies engaged in Departments 30 to 45, and was managed by an elected committee of their number.

doornounUS /dɔːr/

a swinging or sliding barrier that will close the entrance to a room or building or vehicle

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

earlyadjectiveUS /ˈɜːrli/

at or near the beginning of a period of time or course of events or before the usual or expected time

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

effectiveadjectiveUS /ɪˈfektɪv/

producing or capable of producing an intended result or having a striking effect

From this reading Above the fireplace was a fine mirror, and Hugo was personally engaged in pasting on the mirror a fine and effective poster, which ran as follows:

electedadjectiveUS /ɪˈlektəd/

subject to popular election

From this reading It was the domain of the ladies engaged in Departments 30 to 45, and was managed by an elected committee of their number.

engagedadjectiveUS /enˈɡeɪdʒd/

having ones attention or mind or energy engaged

From this reading It was the domain of the ladies engaged in Departments 30 to 45, and was managed by an elected committee of their number.

entitledadjectiveUS /enˈtaɪtəld/

qualified for by right according to law

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

excessivelyadverbUS /ɪkˈsesɪvli/

to a degree exceeding normal or proper limits

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

fineadjectiveUS /faɪn/

being satisfactory or in satisfactory condition

From this reading Above the fireplace was a fine mirror, and Hugo was personally engaged in pasting on the mirror a fine and effective poster, which ran as follows:

fireplacenounUS /ˈfaɪərpleɪs/

an open recess in a wall at the base of a chimney where a fire can be built

From this reading Above the fireplace was a fine mirror, and Hugo was personally engaged in pasting on the mirror a fine and effective poster, which ran as follows:

followsverbUS /ˈfɑːloʊz/

third-person singular of “follow” — to travel behind, go after, come after

From this reading Above the fireplace was a fine mirror, and Hugo was personally engaged in pasting on the mirror a fine and effective poster, which ran as follows:

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

graphicadjectiveUS /ˈɡræfɪk/

written or drawn or engraved

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

gratisadjectiveUS /ˈɡrætəs/

costing nothing

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/

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

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

hoursnounUS /ˈaʊərz/

a period of time assigned for work

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

HugonounUS /ˈhjuːɡoʊ/

French poet and novelist and dramatist; leader of the romantic movement in France (1802-1885)

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

HumanadjectiveUS /ˈhjuːmən/

characteristic of humanity

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

informationnounUS /ˌɪnfərˈmeɪʃən/

a message received and understood

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

IslenounUS /aɪl/

a small island

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

ItpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading It was the domain of the ladies engaged in Departments 30 to 45, and was managed by an elected committee of their number.

ladiesnounUS /ˈleɪdiz/

plural of “lady” — a polite name for any woman

From this reading It was the domain of the ladies engaged in Departments 30 to 45, and was managed by an elected committee of their number.

largeadjectiveUS /lɑːrdʒ/

above average in size or number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

lateradverbUS /ˈleɪtər/

happening at a time subsequent to a reference time

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

legionsnounUS /ˈliːdʒənz/

plural of “legion” — archaic terms for army

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

leisurenounUS /ˈleʒər/

time available for ease and relaxation

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

lettersnounUS /ˈletərz/

the literary culture

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

littleadjectiveUS /ˈlɪtəl/

limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

lotnounUS /lɑːt/

(often followed by “of”) a large number or amount or extent

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

MannounUS /mæn/

an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

managedverbUS /ˈmænədʒd/

past form of “manage” — be successful; achieve a goal

From this reading It was the domain of the ladies engaged in Departments 30 to 45, and was managed by an elected committee of their number.

mirrornounUS /ˈmɪrər/

polished surface that forms images by reflecting light

From this reading Above the fireplace was a fine mirror, and Hugo was personally engaged in pasting on the mirror a fine and effective poster, which ran as follows:

mostadverbUS /moʊst/

used to form the superlative

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

motor-cars

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

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

NaturenounUS /ˈneɪtʃər/

the essential qualities or characteristics by which something is recognized

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

nearadverbUS /nɪr/

near in time or place or relationship

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

noticenounUS /ˈnoʊtəs/

an announcement containing information about an event

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

nowadverbUS /naʊ/

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

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

numbernounUS /ˈnʌmbər/

the property possessed by a sum or total or indefinite quantity of units or individuals

From this reading It was the domain of the ladies engaged in Departments 30 to 45, and was managed by an elected committee of their number.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

onprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

onepronounUS /wʌn/

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

ORANGE-BLOSSOM

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

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

ornamentedverbUS /ˈɔːrnəmentɪd/

past form of “ornament” — make more attractive by adding ornament, colour, etc.

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

outadjectiveUS /aʊt/

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

pastingverbUS /ˈpeɪstɪŋ/

-ing form of “paste” — join or attach with or as if with glue

From this reading Above the fireplace was a fine mirror, and Hugo was personally engaged in pasting on the mirror a fine and effective poster, which ran as follows:

personallyadverbUS /ˈpɜːrsənəli/

as yourself

From this reading Above the fireplace was a fine mirror, and Hugo was personally engaged in pasting on the mirror a fine and effective poster, which ran as follows:

pinnedverbUS /pɪnd/

inflected form of “pin” — to hold fast or prevent from moving

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

posternounUS /ˈpoʊstər/

a sign posted in a public place as an advertisement

From this reading Above the fireplace was a fine mirror, and Hugo was personally engaged in pasting on the mirror a fine and effective poster, which ran as follows:

previousadjectiveUS /ˈpriːviəs/

just preceding something else in time or order

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

printedverbUS /ˈprɪntɪd/

past form of “print” — put into print

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

prominentadjectiveUS /ˈprɑːmənənt/

having a quality that thrusts itself into attention

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

quiteadverbUS /kwaɪt/

to a degree (not used with a negative)

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

ranverbUS /ræn/

inflected form of “run” — move fast by using one's feet, with one foot off the ground at any given time

From this reading Above the fireplace was a fine mirror, and Hugo was personally engaged in pasting on the mirror a fine and effective poster, which ran as follows:

readableadjectiveUS /ˈriːdəbəl/

easily deciphered

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

rednounUS /red/

red color or pigment; the chromatic color resembling the hue of blood

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

relatingverbUS /rɪˈleɪtɪŋ/

-ing form of “relate” — make a logical or causal connection

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

reproductionsnounUS /ˌriːprəˈdʌkʃənz/

plural of “reproduction” — the process of generating offspring

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

roomsnounUS /ruːmz/

apartment consisting of a series of connected rooms used as a living unit (as in a hotel)

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

ShoppersnounUS /ˈʃɑːpərz/

plural of “shopper” — someone who visits stores in search of articles to buy

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

SomeadjectiveUS /sʌm/

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

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

specimensnounUS /ˈspesəmənz/

plural of “specimen” — an example regarded as typical of its class

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

squaresnounUS /skwerz/

plural of “square” — (geometry) a plane rectangle with four equal sides and four right angles; a four-sided regular polygon

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

staffnounUS /stæf/

personnel who assist their superior in carrying out an assigned task

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

SundaysnounUS /ˈsʌndeɪz/

plural of “sunday” — first day of the week; observed as a day of rest and worship by most Christians

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

theirdeterminerUS /ðer/

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading It was the domain of the ladies engaged in Departments 30 to 45, and was managed by an elected committee of their number.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

tripnounUS /trɪp/

a journey for some purpose (usually including the return)

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

twonounUS /tuː/

the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one or a numeral representing this number

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

upadjectiveUS /ʌp/

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

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

upliftingnounUS /ˈʌplɪftɪŋ/

the rise of something

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

upperadjectiveUS /ˈʌpər/

the topmost one of two

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

usenounUS /juːs/

the act of using

From this reading A staff notice about the early closing of the previous day had been pinned up near the door, and printed information relating to a trip to the Isle of Man, balloting for the use of motor-cars on Sundays, and a gratis book entitled 'Human Nature in Shoppers,' were also prominent.

wallsnounUS /wɔːlz/

plural of “wall” — an architectural partition with a height and length greater than its thickness; used to divide or enclose an area or to support another structure

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/

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

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading Above the fireplace was a fine mirror, and Hugo was personally engaged in pasting on the mirror a fine and effective poster, which ran as follows:

whitenounUS /waɪt/

a Caucasian

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

wickernounUS /ˈwɪkər/

slender flexible branches or twigs (especially of willow or some canes); used for wickerwork

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading ORANGE-BLOSSOM Some two hours later Hugo was in one of the common rooms devoted to the leisure and diversion of the legions in the upper basement: a large and bright apartment, ornamented with bookcases, wicker chairs, and reproductions of all that was most uplifting in graphic art.

wordsnounUS /wɜːrdz/

the words that are spoken

From this reading Affixed to the walls, in and out among the specimens of graphic art, were quite a lot of little red diamond squares, containing in white the words, 'Do it now,' in excessively readable letters.

Chapter 7 of Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes by Arnold Bennett holds 82 sentences, grouped into 17 reading sections of at most 5 sentences. The text is the source edition, unabridged, and the chapter records which sentences cover which part of the work so that nothing is dropped. Every word can be tapped for its pronunciation and dictionary entry.

What does chapter 7 of Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes contain?

Chapter 7 holds 82 sentences of Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes, unabridged, divided into 17 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 7 of Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes by Arnold Bennett exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 82 sentences, grouped into 17 sections of at most 5 sentences so that a reader can take the chapter in steady, finishable pieces. The chapter also stores a coverage record mapping every one of its sentences to a part of the work, which is how the edition demonstrates that no line was dropped.

How do I study chapter 7 of Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes?

Work through the 17 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 17 sections in this chapter is short enough to read once, hear once, and then re-read with the vocabulary in view. Tapping a word plays it alone and opens its dictionary entry with IPA, part of speech and meaning, so the reader is never forced to guess a pronunciation from spelling. Working section by section keeps a long chapter from becoming an undifferentiated wall of text, which is the usual reason a reader abandons a work of this period.

Can chapter 7 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 7 can be played aloud in United States English.

Audio covers the whole chapter: any sentence can be played, and any single word within it can be played on its own. The voice uses United States English. For a work of this period that matters, because spelling is an unreliable guide to pronunciation for vocabulary that has fallen out of daily use, and a learner who guesses wrong tends to keep the error. Hearing the word in its own sentence, and then alone, settles it.

Questions about reading Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes

Common questions about reading Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes by Arnold Bennett on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes?

Yes. All 4357 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #15712 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #15712, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes take to read?

About 363 minutes of reading across 872 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes section by section

How to work through Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 27 chapters of Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes to begin.

  2. Read one section

    Each section holds 5 sentences; read it once through.

  3. Listen and tap

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

Vocabulary met early in Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes

Words and structures a reader meets early in Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Seven
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Years
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Having
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Unostentatiously
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Hugo: A Fantasia on Modern Themes; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.