Chapter III

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

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

(followed by “to”) in agreement with or accordant with

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

a proposal for an appropriate course of action

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

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

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

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

From this reading Stevenson’s life-work was his art.

in or to or toward a former location

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

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

From this reading It is only fair to him to remember that his life-work, his _magnum opus_, must be looked for not in literature but in friendship.

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

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

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

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

the people of Great Britain

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

think moodily or anxiously about something

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

inflected form of “carry” — move while supporting, either in a vehicle or in one's hands or on one's body

From this reading That he never carried these intentions into effect is due to other reasons than procrastination.

plural of “chance” — a possibility due to a favorable combination of circumstances

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

a place off to the side of an area

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

past form of “count” — determine the number or amount of

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

to consider or examine in speech or writing

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

manner of acting or controlling yourself

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

owed and payable immediately or on demand

From this reading That he never carried these intentions into effect is due to other reasons than procrastination.

a phenomenon that follows and is caused by some previous phenomenon

From this reading That he never carried these intentions into effect is due to other reasons than procrastination.

either extremity of something that has length

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

free from favoritism or self-interest or bias or deception; conforming with established standards or rules

From this reading It is only fair to him to remember that his life-work, his _magnum opus_, must be looked for not in literature but in friendship.

to a considerable degree; very much

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

having an (over)abundance of flesh

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

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

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading It is only fair to him to remember that his life-work, his _magnum opus_, must be looked for not in literature but in friendship.

the state of being friends (or friendly)

From this reading It is only fair to him to remember that his life-work, his _magnum opus_, must be looked for not in literature but in friendship.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

give something useful or necessary to

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

having desirable or positive qualities especially those suitable for a thing specified

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

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

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

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

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

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

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

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

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

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

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

the formation of a mental image of something that is not perceived as real and is not present to the senses

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

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

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

in such a manner as could not be otherwise

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

plural of “intention” — an anticipated outcome that is intended or that guides your planned actions

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

moving to the inside of something

From this reading That he never carried these intentions into effect is due to other reasons than procrastination.

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

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading It is only fair to him to remember that his life-work, his _magnum opus_, must be looked for not in literature but in friendship.

pass into a specified state or condition

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

used to make a suggestion or a command including the speaker

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

the literary culture

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

a room where books are kept

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

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

From this reading It is only fair to him to remember that his life-work, his _magnum opus_, must be looked for not in literature but in friendship.

prefer or wish to do something

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

has a good chance of being the case or of coming about

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

creative writing of recognized artistic value

From this reading It is only fair to him to remember that his life-work, his _magnum opus_, must be looked for not in literature but in friendship.

past form of “look” — perceive with attention; direct one's gaze towards

From this reading It is only fair to him to remember that his life-work, his _magnum opus_, must be looked for not in literature but in friendship.

a large wine bottle for liquor or wine

From this reading It is only fair to him to remember that his life-work, his _magnum opus_, must be looked for not in literature but in friendship.

a formally arranged gathering

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

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

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

a depository for collecting and displaying objects having scientific or historical or artistic value

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

used to say something is necessary, or almost certainly true

From this reading It is only fair to him to remember that his life-work, his _magnum opus_, must be looked for not in literature but in friendship.

used when the speaker is also the object of the action

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

not ever; at no time in the past or future

From this reading That he never carried these intentions into effect is due to other reasons than procrastination.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

and nothing more

From this reading It is only fair to him to remember that his life-work, his _magnum opus_, must be looked for not in literature but in friendship.

a musical work that has been created

From this reading It is only fair to him to remember that his life-work, his _magnum opus_, must be looked for not in literature but in friendship.

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading That he never carried these intentions into effect is due to other reasons than procrastination.

above and across; more than

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

covered with a firm surface

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

(Christianity) the abode of Satan and the forces of evil; where sinners suffer eternal punishment

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

by chance

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

postpone doing what one should be doing

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

the act of procrastinating; putting off or delaying or defering an action to a later time

From this reading That he never carried these intentions into effect is due to other reasons than procrastination.

communicate vividly

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

something proposed (such as a plan or assumption)

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

-ing form of “propose” — make a proposal, declare a plan for something

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

a condensed but memorable saying embodying some important fact of experience that is taken as true by many people

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

prepared and printed for distribution and sale

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

possessive form of “publisher” — a firm in the publishing business

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

plural of “reason” — a rational motive for a belief or action

From this reading That he never carried these intentions into effect is due to other reasons than procrastination.

To recall to mind.

From this reading It is only fair to him to remember that his life-work, his _magnum opus_, must be looked for not in literature but in friendship.

an open way (generally public) for travel or transportation

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

perceive by sight or have the power to perceive by sight

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

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

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

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

From this reading Stevenson’s life-work was his art.

not in physical motion

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

following in time or order

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

plural of “telegram” — a message transmitted by telegraph

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

apparatus used to communicate at a distance over a wire (usually in Morse code)

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading That he never carried these intentions into effect is due to other reasons than procrastination.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

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

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

used when the people doing the action are also its object

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned

From this reading That he never carried these intentions into effect is due to other reasons than procrastination.

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

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

as the end result of a succession or process

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

the speaker and others, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

(usually used in combination) having value of a specified kind

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

precisely as stated

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

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

From this reading Stevenson’s life-work was his art.

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

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

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

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

inflected form of “go” — change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

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

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

any or all of a kind, it does not matter which

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

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

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

belonging to which person

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

in the company of; together with

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

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

From this reading Like the good intentions with which, according to the proverb, the road to perdition is paved, Watts-Dunton’s book-writing intentions, if intentions counted, would in themselves go far to furnish a fat corner of the British Museum Library.

produce a literary work

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.

set down in writing in any of various ways

From this reading But whatever the publisher’s subsequent doings, the chances were that Watts-Dunton went back to his library, to brood over the idea, very likely to write to some of us whose advice he valued, or more likely still to telegraph, proposing a meeting to discuss the project (I had not a few such letters and telegrams from him myself); perhaps in imagination to see the book written and published; but ultimately and inevitably--to procrastinate and in the end to let the proposal lapse.