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In the Wilds of South America
In the Wilds of South America

Chapter IX

Chapter 9 of In the Wilds of South America is here in full — 186 sentences across 38 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

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Context Illustration Reading 1/37 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.
All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.
The arrival of the steamer always causes a great deal of confusion.
Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.
There is always a rush for the little hotel Magdalena,” built on a slight bluff overlooking the river.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
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A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

In the Wilds of South America

Chapter IX

Chapter 9 of In the Wilds of South America is here in full — 186 sentences across 38 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/37 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.
Line 2
All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six daysvoyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.
Line 3
The arrival of the steamer always causes a great deal of confusion.
/ðə ərˈaɪvəl ʌv ðə ˈstiːmər ˈɔːlweɪz ˈkɑːzəz ə ɡreɪt diːl ʌv kənˈfjuːʒən/
Line 4
Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.
Line 5
There is always a rush for the little hotelMagdalena,” built on a slight bluff overlooking the river.
/ðer ɪz ˈɔːlweɪz ə rʌʃ fɔːr ðə ˈlɪtəl hoʊˈtel ˌmæɡdəˈliːnə bɪlt ɑːn ə slaɪt blʌf ˈoʊvərlʊkɪŋ ðə ˈrɪvər/

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.

Colombia noun US /kəˈlʌmbiə/

a republic in northwestern South America with a coastline on the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea; achieved independence from Spain in 1821 under the leadership of Simon Bolivar; Spanish is the official language

From this reading “ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.”

highlands noun US /ˈhaɪləndz/

a mountainous region of northern Scotland famous for its rugged beauty; known for the style of dress (the kilt and tartan) and the clan system (now in disuse)

From this reading “All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.”

Magdalena noun US /ˌmæɡdəˈliːnə/

a river that rises in the Andes mountains in southwestern Colombia and flows generally northward to empty into the Caribbean Sea at Barranquilla

From this reading “All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.”

Medellin noun US /mɪˈdelɪn/

city in western Colombia; important coffee center

From this reading “All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.”

peons noun US /ˈpiːənz/

plural of “peon” — a laborer who is obliged to do menial work

plying verb US /ˈplaɪɪŋ/

-ing form of “ply” — give what is desired or needed, especially support, food or sustenance

From this reading “All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.”

products noun US /ˈprɑːdəkts/

plural of “product” — commodities offered for sale

From this reading “All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.”

steamers noun US /ˈstiːmərz/

plural of “steamer” — a clam that is usually steamed in the shell

From this reading “All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.”

Word partnerships in these lines

English keeps certain words together, and knowing the pair is worth more than knowing each word alone. Every partnership below was counted across our whole published library, and earns its place by appearing far more often than two unrelated words of the same frequency would.

Shown as this reading writes them, with the form the library counts, what kind of pairing it is, and how often it occurs.

lower deck verb + noun

the deck below the main deck

In this reading “Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.”

most attractive adverb + adjective

In this reading “ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.”

simple matter adjective + noun

In this reading “Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.”

look after verb + particle

keep under careful scrutiny

In this reading “Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.”

deal of verb + particle

In this reading “ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.”

stop at verb + particle

In this reading “All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.”

All words in this reading · 103

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.

adeterminerUS /ə/

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

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

aboardadverbUS /əˈbɔːrd/

on a ship, train, plane or other vehicle

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

ACROSSprepositionUS /əˈkrɔːs/

from one side of something to the other

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

afterprepositionUS /ˈæftər/

later than; following

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

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 All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

alwaysadverbUS /ˈɔːlweɪz/

at all times; all the time and on every occasion

From this reading The arrival of the steamer always causes a great deal of confusion.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

ANTIOQUIAN

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

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/

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

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

arrivalnounUS /ərˈaɪvəl/

accomplishment of an objective

From this reading The arrival of the steamer always causes a great deal of confusion.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

ashoreadverbUS /əˈʃɔːr/

towards the shore from the water

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

attractiveadjectiveUS /əˈtræktɪv/

pleasing to the eye or mind especially through beauty or charm

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

bagsnounUS /bæɡz/

plural of “bag” — a flexible container with a single opening

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

Barranquillanoun

a port city of northern Colombia near the Caribbean on the Magdalena River

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/

the past participle of “be”

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

Berrio

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

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

bluffnounUS /blʌf/

a high steep bank (usually formed by river erosion)

From this reading There is always a rush for the little hotel “Magdalena,” built on a slight bluff overlooking the river.

boundadjectiveUS /baʊnd/

confined by bonds

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

boxesnounUS /ˈbɑːksəz/

plural of “box” — a (usually rectangular) container; may have a lid

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

builtadjectiveUS /bɪlt/

(used of soaps or cleaning agents) having a substance (an abrasive or filler) added to increase effectiveness

From this reading There is always a rush for the little hotel “Magdalena,” built on a slight bluff overlooking the river.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

CAUCA

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

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

causesnounUS /ˈkɑːzəz/

plural of “cause” — events that provide the generative force that is the origin of something

From this reading The arrival of the steamer always causes a great deal of confusion.

ColombianounUS /kəˈlʌmbiə/

a republic in northwestern South America with a coastline on the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea; achieved independence from Spain in 1821 under the leadership of Simon Bolivar; Spanish is the official language

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

confusionnounUS /kənˈfjuːʒən/

disorder resulting from a failure to behave predictably

From this reading The arrival of the steamer always causes a great deal of confusion.

conveyverbUS /kənˈveɪ/

(of information) make known; pass on

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

coveredadjectiveUS /ˈkʌvərd/

overlaid or spread or topped with or enclosed within something; sometimes used as a combining form

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

crewnounUS /kruː/

the men and women who man a vehicle (ship, aircraft, etc.)

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

daysnounUS /deɪz/

the time during which someone's life continues

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

dealverbUS /diːl/

act on verbally or in some form of artistic expression

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

Debarking

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

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

decknounUS /dek/

any of various platforms built into a vessel

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

dischargeverbUS /dɪsˈtʃɑːrdʒ/

complete or carry out

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

down-stream

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

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

freightnounUS /freɪt/

goods carried by a large vehicle

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

fromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

goldnounUS /ɡoʊld/

coins made of gold

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

GOLD-FIELDS

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

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

greatadjectiveUS /ɡreɪt/

relatively large in size or number or extent; larger than others of its kind

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

hasauxiliary verbUS /hæz/

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

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

highlandsnounUS /ˈhaɪləndz/

a mountainous region of northern Scotland famous for its rugged beauty; known for the style of dress (the kilt and tartan) and the clan system (now in disuse)

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

hotelnounUS /hoʊˈtel/

a building where travelers can pay for lodging and meals and other services

From this reading There is always a rush for the little hotel “Magdalena,” built on a slight bluff overlooking the river.

importancenounUS /ˌɪmˈpɔːrtəns/

the quality of being important and worthy of note

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

invariablyadverbUS /ˌɪnˈveriəbli/

without variation or change, in every case

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/

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

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

itpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

littleadjectiveUS /ˈlɪtəl/

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

From this reading There is always a rush for the little hotel “Magdalena,” built on a slight bluff overlooking the river.

locatedadjectiveUS /ˈloʊkeɪtəd/

situated in a particular spot or position

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

lookverbUS /lʊk/

perceive with attention; direct one's gaze towards

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

LOWERverbUS /ˈloʊər/

move something or somebody to a lower position

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

luggagenounUS /ˈlʌɡədʒ/

cases used to carry belongings when traveling

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

MagdalenanounUS /ˌmæɡdəˈliːnə/

a river that rises in the Andes mountains in southwestern Colombia and flows generally northward to empty into the Caribbean Sea at Barranquilla

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

matternounUS /ˈmætər/

a vaguely specified concern

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

MedellinnounUS /mɪˈdelɪn/

city in western Colombia; important coffee center

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

mostadverbUS /moʊst/

used to form the superlative

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

mountainsnounUS /ˈmaʊntənz/

plural of “mountain” — a land mass that projects well above its surroundings; higher than a hill

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

necessaryadjectiveUS /ˈnesəseri/

absolutely essential

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

neverthelessadverbUS /ˌnevərðəˈles/

in spite of what has just been said

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

ONprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

onesnounUS /wʌnz/

plural of “one” — the smallest whole number or a numeral representing this number

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

otheradjectiveUS /ˈʌðər/

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

overlookingadjectiveUS /ˈoʊvərlʊkɪŋ/

used of a height or viewpoint

From this reading There is always a rush for the little hotel “Magdalena,” built on a slight bluff overlooking the river.

ownverbUS /oʊn/

have ownership or possession of

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

passengersnounUS /ˈpæsəndʒərz/

plural of “passenger” — a traveler riding in a vehicle (a boat or bus or car or plane or train etc) who is not operating it

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

peonsnounUS /ˈpiːənz/

plural of “peon” — a laborer who is obliged to do menial work

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

plyingverbUS /ˈplaɪɪŋ/

-ing form of “ply” — give what is desired or needed, especially support, food or sustenance

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

portnounUS /pɔːrt/

a place (seaport or airport) where people and merchandise can enter or leave a country

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

productsnounUS /ˈprɑːdəkts/

plural of “product” — commodities offered for sale

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

PUERTO

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

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

refusingverbUS /rəˈfjuːzɪŋ/

-ing form of “refuse” — show unwillingness towards

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

renderverbUS /ˈrendər/

cause to become

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

requiredadjectiveUS /riˈkwaɪərd/

necessary for relief or supply

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

rivernounUS /ˈrɪvər/

a large natural stream of water (larger than a creek)

From this reading There is always a rush for the little hotel “Magdalena,” built on a slight bluff overlooking the river.

rushverbUS /rʌʃ/

move hurridly

From this reading There is always a rush for the little hotel “Magdalena,” built on a slight bluff overlooking the river.

secureverbUS /sɪˈkjʊr/

get by special effort

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

servicenounUS /ˈsɜːrvəs/

work done by one person or group that benefits another

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

ship'snounUS /ʃɪps/

possessive form of “ship” — a vessel that carries passengers or freight

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

simpleadjectiveUS /ˈsɪmpəl/

having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

sixnounUS /sɪks/

the cardinal number that is the sum of five and one

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

slightnounUS /slaɪt/

a deliberate discourteous act (usually as an expression of anger or disapproval)

From this reading There is always a rush for the little hotel “Magdalena,” built on a slight bluff overlooking the river.

spotnounUS /spɑːt/

a point located with respect to surface features of some region

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

steamernounUS /ˈstiːmər/

a clam that is usually steamed in the shell

From this reading The arrival of the steamer always causes a great deal of confusion.

steamersnounUS /ˈstiːmərz/

plural of “steamer” — a clam that is usually steamed in the shell

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

stopverbUS /stɑːp/

come to a halt, stop moving

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

takeverbUS /teɪk/

carry out

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

THEdeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

theirdeterminerUS /ðer/

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

ThereadverbUS /ðer/

in or at that place or location

From this reading There is always a rush for the little hotel “Magdalena,” built on a slight bluff overlooking the river.

thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

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

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

thosedeterminerUS /ðoʊz/

the plural of “that”: the people or things further away, or already known

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

TOparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

up-going

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

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

VALDIVIA

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

From this reading ACROSS THE ANTIOQUIAN GOLD-FIELDS TO PUERTO VALDIVIA ON THE LOWER CAUCA Puerto Berrio is not the most attractive spot in Colombia, but it is nevertheless of a great deal of importance.

voyagenounUS /ˈvɔɪədʒ/

an act of traveling by water

From this reading All steamers plying on the Lower Magdalena stop at that port, the up-going ones after a six days’ voyage from Barranquilla to discharge freight for Medellin, and those bound down-stream to take aboard gold and other products of the Antioquian highlands.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading Debarking passengers are required to look after their own luggage, which is not a simple matter, as it is invariably covered with mountains of boxes and bags on the lower deck; and after it has been located it is necessary to secure _peons_ to convey it ashore, the ship’s crew invariably refusing to render this service.

Chapter 9 of In the Wilds of South America by Leo E. (Leo Edward) Miller holds 186 sentences, grouped into 38 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 9 of In the Wilds of South America contain?

Chapter 9 holds 186 sentences of In the Wilds of South America, unabridged, divided into 38 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 9 of In the Wilds of South America by Leo E. (Leo Edward) Miller exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 186 sentences, grouped into 38 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 9 of In the Wilds of South America?

Work through the 38 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 38 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 9 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 9 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 In the Wilds of South America

Common questions about reading In the Wilds of South America by Leo E. (Leo Edward) Miller on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of In the Wilds of South America?

Yes. All 5458 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #59512 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of In the Wilds of South America is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #59512, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does In the Wilds of South America take to read?

About 454 minutes of reading across 1092 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read In the Wilds of South America section by section

How to work through In the Wilds of South America section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 27 chapters of In the Wilds of South America 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 In the Wilds of South America

Words and structures a reader meets early in In the Wilds of South America, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Frequently
A word that appears in the opening chapter of In the Wilds of South America; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Wondered
A word that appears in the opening chapter of In the Wilds of South America; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Large
A word that appears in the opening chapter of In the Wilds of South America; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Number
A word that appears in the opening chapter of In the Wilds of South America; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.