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Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile
Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile

Chapter XX · Chapter 20

Chapter 20 of Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile is here in full — 122 sentences across 25 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Cover illustration for Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile
Context Illustration Reading 1/24 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
SAMSON AMONG THE PHILISTINES.
At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadsteadone, a man-of-war just furling her sailscame nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.
A large man-of-war cutter was just landing its occupants, among whom were a corporal’s guard and three officers, besides the naval lieutenant and boat’s crew.
Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.
Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile

Chapter XX · Chapter 20

Chapter 20 of Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile is here in full — 122 sentences across 25 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/24 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
SAMSON AMONG THE PHILISTINES.
/ˈsæmsən əˈmʌŋ ðə ˈfɪləstiːnz/
Line 2
At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadsteadone, a man-of-war just furling her sailscame nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.
Line 3
A large man-of-war cutter was just landing its occupants, among whom were a corporal’s guard and three officers, besides the naval lieutenant and boat’s crew.
Line 4
Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.
Line 5
Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.
/ˌɪˈmiːdiːətli ðə mɑːb reɪzd ə ʃaʊt ˈpresɪŋ ɪn ˌkjʊriˈɑːsəti təˈwɔːrdz ðə kəˈlɑːsəl ˈstreɪndʒər soʊ ðæt ˈdrɔːɪŋ ðer sɔːrdz fɔːr ʌv ðə ˈsoʊldʒərz hæd tuː fɔːrs ə ˈpæsədʒ fɔːr ðer ˈkɑːmrædz huː ˈfɑːloʊd ɑːn kənˈdʌktɪŋ ðə ˈdʒaɪənt/

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.

boat's noun US /boʊts/

possessive form of “boat” — a small vessel for travel on water

handcuffed verb US /ˈhændkʌft/

past form of “handcuff” — confine or restrain with or as if with manacles or handcuffs

From this reading “Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.”

overshadowed verb US /ˌoʊvərˈʃædoʊd/

past form of “overshadow” — be greater in significance than

From this reading “Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.”

Paul's noun US /pɔːlz/

possessive form of “paul” — United States feminist (1885-1977)

philistines noun US /ˈfɪləstiːnz/

plural of “philistine” — a person who is uninterested in intellectual pursuits

From this reading “SAMSON AMONG THE PHILISTINES.”

samson noun US /ˈsæmsən/

(Old Testament) a judge of Israel who performed herculean feats of strength against the Philistines until he was betrayed to them by his mistress Delilah

From this reading “SAMSON AMONG THE PHILISTINES.”

sightseers noun US /ˈsaɪtˈsiːərz/

plural of “sightseer” — a tourist who is visiting sights of interest

From this reading “At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.”

steeples noun US /ˈstiːpəlz/

plural of “steeple” — a tall tower that forms the superstructure of a building (usually a church or temple) and that tapers to a point at the top

From this reading “Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.”

All words in this reading · 120

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 At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

adjacentadjectiveUS /əˈdʒeɪsənt/

nearest in space or position; immediately adjoining without intervening space

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

AMONGprepositionUS /əˈmʌŋ/

surrounded by; in the middle of a group

From this reading SAMSON AMONG THE PHILISTINES.

anchornounUS /ˈæŋkər/

a mechanical device that prevents a vessel from moving

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading A large man-of-war cutter was just landing its occupants, among whom were a corporal’s guard and three officers, besides the naval lieutenant and boat’s crew.

armedadjectiveUS /ɑːrmd/

(used of persons or the military) characterized by having or bearing arms

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

AtprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

besidesprepositionUS /bɪˈsaɪdz/

in addition to; as well as

From this reading A large man-of-war cutter was just landing its occupants, among whom were a corporal’s guard and three officers, besides the naval lieutenant and boat’s crew.

betweenprepositionUS /bɪˈtwiːn/

in the space, time, or range separating two things

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

boat'snounUS /boʊts/

possessive form of “boat” — a small vessel for travel on water

From this reading A large man-of-war cutter was just landing its occupants, among whom were a corporal’s guard and three officers, besides the naval lieutenant and boat’s crew.

cameverbUS /keɪm/

inflected form of “come” — move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

captivenounUS /ˈkæptɪv/

a person who is confined; especially a prisoner of war

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

colossaladjectiveUS /kəˈlɑːsəl/

so great in size or force or extent as to elicit awe

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

commotionnounUS /kəˈmoʊʃən/

a disorderly outburst or tumult

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

companynounUS /ˈkʌmpəniː/

an institution created to conduct business

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

comradesnounUS /ˈkɑːmrædz/

plural of “comrade” — a friend who is frequently in the company of another

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

conductingnounUS /kənˈdʌktɪŋ/

the way of administering a business

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

corporal's

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

From this reading A large man-of-war cutter was just landing its occupants, among whom were a corporal’s guard and three officers, besides the naval lieutenant and boat’s crew.

coveredadjectiveUS /ˈkʌvərd/

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

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

crewnounUS /kruː/

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

From this reading A large man-of-war cutter was just landing its occupants, among whom were a corporal’s guard and three officers, besides the naval lieutenant and boat’s crew.

crowdsnounUS /kraʊdz/

plural of “crowd” — a large number of things or people considered together

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

curiositynounUS /ˌkjʊriˈɑːsəti/

a state in which you want to learn more about something

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

cutternounUS /ˈkʌtər/

someone who cuts or carves stone

From this reading A large man-of-war cutter was just landing its occupants, among whom were a corporal’s guard and three officers, besides the naval lieutenant and boat’s crew.

defiantadjectiveUS /dɪˈfaɪənt/

boldly resisting authority or an opposing force

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

domenounUS /doʊm/

a concave shape whose distinguishing characteristic is that the concavity faces downward

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

drawingnounUS /ˈdrɔːɪŋ/

an illustration that is drawn by hand and published in a book, magazine, or newspaper

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

Falmouth

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

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

followedverbUS /ˈfɑːloʊd/

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

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

forcenounUS /fɔːrs/

a powerful effect or influence

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

formedadjectiveUS /fɔːrmd/

having or given a form or shape

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

fournounUS /fɔːr/

the cardinal number that is the sum of three and one

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

fromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

furling

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

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

giantnounUS /ˈdʒaɪənt/

any creature of exceptional size

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

glidingnounUS /ˈɡlaɪdɪŋ/

the activity of flying a glider

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

guardnounUS /ɡɑːrd/

a person who keeps watch over something or someone

From this reading A large man-of-war cutter was just landing its occupants, among whom were a corporal’s guard and three officers, besides the naval lieutenant and boat’s crew.

hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/

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

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

handcuffedverbUS /ˈhændkʌft/

past form of “handcuff” — confine or restrain with or as if with manacles or handcuffs

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

havingauxiliary verbUS /ˈhævɪŋ/

the -ing form of “have”

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

headnounUS /hed/

the upper part of the human body or the front part of the body in animals; contains the face and brains

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

herdeterminerUS /hɜːr/

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

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

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

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

ImmediatelyadverbUS /ˌɪˈmiːdiːətli/

without delay or hesitation; with no time intervening

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

inferioradjectiveUS /ˌɪnˈfɪriər/

of or characteristic of low rank or importance

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

IsraelnounUS /ˈɪzriəl/

Jewish republic in southwestern Asia at eastern end of Mediterranean; formerly part of Palestine

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

itsdeterminerUS /ɪts/

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading A large man-of-war cutter was just landing its occupants, among whom were a corporal’s guard and three officers, besides the naval lieutenant and boat’s crew.

justadverbUS /dʒʌst/

and nothing more

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

landedadjectiveUS /ˈlændəd/

owning or consisting of land or real estate

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

landingnounUS /ˈlændɪŋ/

an intermediate platform in a staircase

From this reading A large man-of-war cutter was just landing its occupants, among whom were a corporal’s guard and three officers, besides the naval lieutenant and boat’s crew.

lanenounUS /leɪn/

a narrow way or road

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

largeadjectiveUS /lɑːrdʒ/

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

From this reading A large man-of-war cutter was just landing its occupants, among whom were a corporal’s guard and three officers, besides the naval lieutenant and boat’s crew.

lengthnounUS /leŋkθ/

the linear extent in space from one end to the other; the longest dimension of something that is fixed in place

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

lieutenantnounUS /luːˈtenənt/

a commissioned military officer

From this reading A large man-of-war cutter was just landing its occupants, among whom were a corporal’s guard and three officers, besides the naval lieutenant and boat’s crew.

mannounUS /mæn/

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

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

man-of-warnoun

a warship intended for combat

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

martialadjectiveUS /ˈmɑːrʃəl/

(of persons) befitting a warrior

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

mobnounUS /mɑːb/

a disorderly crowd of people

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

navaladjectiveUS /ˈneɪvəl/

connected with or belonging to or used in a navy

From this reading A large man-of-war cutter was just landing its occupants, among whom were a corporal’s guard and three officers, besides the naval lieutenant and boat’s crew.

nighadjectiveUS /naɪ/

not far distant in time or space or degree or circumstances

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

occupantsnounUS /ˈɑːkjəpənts/

plural of “occupant” — someone who lives at a particular place for a prolonged period or who was born there

From this reading A large man-of-war cutter was just landing its occupants, among whom were a corporal’s guard and three officers, besides the naval lieutenant and boat’s crew.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

officersnounUS /ˈɔːfəsərz/

plural of “officer” — any person in the armed services who holds a position of authority or command

From this reading A large man-of-war cutter was just landing its occupants, among whom were a corporal’s guard and three officers, besides the naval lieutenant and boat’s crew.

onprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

onepronounUS /wʌn/

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

overshadowedverbUS /ˌoʊvərˈʃædoʊd/

past form of “overshadow” — be greater in significance than

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

passagenounUS /ˈpæsədʒ/

the act of passing from one state or place to the next

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

pastnounUS /pæst/

the time that has elapsed

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

Patagonian

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

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

Paul'snounUS /pɔːlz/

possessive form of “paul” — United States feminist (1885-1977)

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

perchnounUS /pɜːrtʃ/

support consisting of a branch or rod that serves as a resting place (especially for a bird)

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

PHILISTINESnounUS /ˈfɪləstiːnz/

plural of “philistine” — a person who is uninterested in intellectual pursuits

From this reading SAMSON AMONG THE PHILISTINES.

pressingnounUS /ˈpresɪŋ/

the act of pressing; the exertion of pressure

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

raggedadjectiveUS /ˈræɡəd/

being or dressed in clothes that are worn or torn

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

raisedadjectiveUS /reɪzd/

located or moved above the surround or above the normal position

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

roadsteadnoun

a partly sheltered anchorage

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

roofsnounUS /ruːfs/

plural of “roof” — a protective covering that covers or forms the top of a building

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

rosenounUS /roʊz/

any of many shrubs of the genus Rosa that bear roses

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

sailsnounUS /seɪlz/

plural of “sail” — a large piece of fabric (usually canvas fabric) by means of which wind is used to propel a sailing vessel

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

SAMSONnounUS /ˈsæmsən/

(Old Testament) a judge of Israel who performed herculean feats of strength against the Philistines until he was betrayed to them by his mistress Delilah

From this reading SAMSON AMONG THE PHILISTINES.

sawverbUS /sɔː/

cut with a saw

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

shipverbUS /ʃɪp/

transport commercially

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

shorenounUS /ʃɔːr/

the land along the edge of a body of water

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

shoutverbUS /ʃaʊt/

utter in a loud voice; talk in a loud voice (usually denoting characteristic manner of speaking)

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

sightseersnounUS /ˈsaɪtˈsiːərz/

plural of “sightseer” — a tourist who is visiting sights of interest

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

soconjunctionUS /soʊ/

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

soldiersnounUS /ˈsoʊldʒərz/

plural of “soldier” — an enlisted man or woman who serves in an army

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

SomeadjectiveUS /sʌm/

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

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

sortnounUS /sɔːrt/

a category of things distinguished by some common characteristic or quality

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

St

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

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

staturenounUS /ˈstætʃər/

high level of respect gained by impressive development or achievement

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

steeplesnounUS /ˈstiːpəlz/

plural of “steeple” — a tall tower that forms the superstructure of a building (usually a church or temple) and that tapers to a point at the top

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

stern-sheets

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

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

strangernounUS /ˈstreɪndʒər/

anyone who does not belong in the environment in which they are found

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

swordsnounUS /sɔːrdz/

plural of “sword” — a cutting or thrusting weapon that has a long metal blade and a hilt with a hand guard

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

teethnounUS /tiːθ/

the kind and number and arrangement of teeth (collectively) in a person or animal

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

THEdeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading SAMSON AMONG THE PHILISTINES.

theirdeterminerUS /ðer/

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

theirspronounUS /ðerz/

the one or ones belonging to them

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

thempronounUS /ðem/

the people or things already mentioned, as the object

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

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

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

threenounUS /θriː/

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

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

towardsprepositionUS /təˈwɔːrdz/

in the direction of

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

townnounUS /taʊn/

an urban area with a fixed boundary that is smaller than a city

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

trimverbUS /trɪm/

remove the edges from and cut down to the desired size

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

twonounUS /tuː/

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

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

vesselsnounUS /ˈvesəlz/

plural of “vessel” — a tube in which a body fluid circulates

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

violentadjectiveUS /ˈvaɪələnt/

acting with or marked by or resulting from great force or energy or emotional intensity

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading A large man-of-war cutter was just landing its occupants, among whom were a corporal’s guard and three officers, besides the naval lieutenant and boat’s crew.

wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/

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

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

whileconjunctionUS /waɪl/

during the time that

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

whopronounUS /huː/

which person or people

From this reading Immediately the mob raised a shout, pressing in curiosity towards the colossal stranger; so that, drawing their swords, four of the soldiers had to force a passage for their comrades, who followed on, conducting the giant.

whompronounUS /huːm/

the form of “who” used as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading A large man-of-war cutter was just landing its occupants, among whom were a corporal’s guard and three officers, besides the naval lieutenant and boat’s crew.

whosedeterminerUS /huːz/

belonging to which person

From this reading Some of this company having landed, and formed a sort of lane among the mob, two trim soldiers, armed to the teeth, rose in the stern-sheets; and between them, a martial man of Patagonian stature, their ragged and handcuffed captive, whose defiant head overshadowed theirs, as St. Paul’s dome its inferior steeples.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading At length, as the ship, gliding on past three or four vessels at anchor in the roadstead—one, a man-of-war just furling her sails—came nigh Falmouth town, Israel, from his perch, saw crowds in violent commotion on the shore, while the adjacent roofs were covered with sightseers.

Chapter 20 of Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile by Herman Melville holds 122 sentences, grouped into 25 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 20 of Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile contain?

Chapter 20 holds 122 sentences of Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile, unabridged, divided into 25 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 20 of Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile by Herman Melville exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 122 sentences, grouped into 25 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 20 of Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile?

Work through the 25 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 25 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 20 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 20 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 Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile

Common questions about reading Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile by Herman Melville on this page, its source edition and its audio.

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Yes. All 3320 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #15422 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #15422, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile take to read?

About 276 minutes of reading across 664 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

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How to work through Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

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Vocabulary met early in Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile

Words and structures a reader meets early in Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Youthful
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Adventures
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Israel
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Imagination
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Israel Potter: His Fifty Years of Exile; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.