Complete classic literature • Five-line readings • Clear US narration
VELMORA ACADEMY
Academy of Archival Languages & Memory Studies
Menu Close
Madam Constantia
Madam Constantia

Chapter I

Chapter 1 of Madam Constantia is here in full — 6 sentences across 2 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Cover illustration for Madam Constantia
Context Illustration Reading 1/1 · 6 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 6
_Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.
The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.
However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.
He has, therefore, with such skill as he possesses prepared it for publication.
It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.
The Editor has thought proper to retain the fanciful title prefixed by the writer, but has added some Chapter headings. MADAM CONSTANTIA
0:00 / 0:00
Speed 0.75x
AI-generated narration by OpenAI · Slow US English
LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

Madam Constantia

Chapter I

Chapter 1 of Madam Constantia is here in full — 6 sentences across 2 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/1 · 6 reading units · Lines 1–6

Line 1
_Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.
Line 2
The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.
/ðə ˈriːzən fɔːr ðɪs dɪˈsɪʒən meɪ biː ˈiːðər ə bɪˈliːf ðæt ðə ˈepəsoʊd ɪz nɑːt ʌv ˈvæljuː frʌm ə hɪˈstɔːrɪkəl ˈstændpɔɪnt ɔːr ə səˈspɪʃən ðæt ðə fækts oʊ ˈsʌmθɪŋ tuː ðə ɪkˈspænʃən ʌv ə mæn ˈraɪtɪŋ ˈmeni jɪrz ˈleɪtər/
Line 3
However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.
/ˌhaʊˈevər ðɪs meɪ biː ðə ˈstɔːri siːmd tuː ðə ˈprezənt ˈedətər tuː pəˈzes ə ˈsɜːrtən ˈpɔɪnjənsi ənd ˌnɑːtwɪθˈstændɪŋ sʌm ˈɪntəmət ˈpæsədʒəz tuː biː ˈwɜːr.ði ʌv ə ˈpʌblɪk ˈwaɪdər ðæn ðæt ʌv ðə ˈkaʊnti ʌv ɪts bɜːrθ/
Line 4
He has, therefore, with such skill as he possesses prepared it for publication.
/hiː hæz ˈðerfɔːr wɪð sʌtʃ skɪl æz hiː pəˈzesəz priˈperd ɪt fɔːr ˌpʌblɪˈkeɪʃən/
Line 5
It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.
Line 6
The Editor has thought proper to retain the fanciful title prefixed by the writer, but has added some Chapter headings. MADAM CONSTANTIA

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.

Collections noun US /kəˈlekʃənz/

plural of “collection” — several things grouped together or considered as a whole

From this reading “_Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.”

expansion noun US /ɪkˈspænʃən/

the act of increasing (something) in size or volume or quantity or scope

From this reading “The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.”

headings noun US /ˈhedɪŋz/

plural of “heading” — a line of text serving to indicate what the passage below it is about

From this reading “The Editor has thought proper to retain the fanciful title prefixed by the writer, but has added some Chapter headings. MADAM CONSTANTIA”

Manuscripts noun US /ˈmænjəskrɪpts/

plural of “manuscript” — the form of a literary work submitted for publication

From this reading “_Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.”

poignancy noun US /ˈpɔɪnjənsi/

a state of deeply felt distress or sorrow

From this reading “However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.”

standpoint noun US /ˈstændpɔɪnt/

a mental position from which things are viewed

From this reading “The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.”

styled verb US /staɪld/

past form of “style” — designate by an identifying term

From this reading “It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.”

Wellington's noun US /ˈwelɪŋtənz/

possessive form of “wellington” — British general and statesman; he defeated Napoleon at Waterloo; subsequently served as Prime Minister (1769-1852)

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.

many years adjective + noun

In this reading “The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.”

during the War preposition + article + noun counted as “during … war”

In this reading “_Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.”

other sources adjective + noun counted as “other source”

In this reading “It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.”

present Editor verb + noun

In this reading “However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.”

among the papers preposition + article + noun counted as “among … papers”

In this reading “_Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.”

dealt with verb + particle counted as “deal with”

In this reading “_Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.”

All words in this reading · 127

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.

33rd

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

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

adeterminerUS /ə/

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

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

addedverbUS /ˈædəd/

past form of “add” — make an addition (to); join or combine or unite with others; increase the quality, quantity, size or scope of

From this reading The Editor has thought proper to retain the fanciful title prefixed by the writer, but has added some Chapter headings. MADAM CONSTANTIA

agetur

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

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

AlthoughconjunctionUS /ˌɔːlˈðoʊ/

in spite of the fact that

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

AmericannounUS /əˈmerəkən/

a native or inhabitant of the United States

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

amongprepositionUS /əˈmʌŋ/

surrounded by; in the middle of a group

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

appearsverbUS /əˈpɪrz/

third-person singular of “appear” — give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading He has, therefore, with such skill as he possesses prepared it for publication.

baronet's

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

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

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

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

beliefnounUS /bɪˈliːf/

any cognitive content held as true

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

birthnounUS /bɜːrθ/

the time when something begins (especially life)

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading The Editor has thought proper to retain the fanciful title prefixed by the writer, but has added some Chapter headings. MADAM CONSTANTIA

CarolinanounUS /ˌkerəˈlaɪnə/

the area of the states of North Carolina and South Carolina

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

certainadjectiveUS /ˈsɜːrtən/

definite but not specified or identified

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

ChapternounUS /ˈtʃæptər/

a subdivision of a written work; usually numbered and titled

From this reading The Editor has thought proper to retain the fanciful title prefixed by the writer, but has added some Chapter headings. MADAM CONSTANTIA

CollectionsnounUS /kəˈlekʃənz/

plural of “collection” — several things grouped together or considered as a whole

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

CommissionnounUS /kəˈmɪʃən/

a special group delegated to consider some matter

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

CONSTANTIA

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

From this reading The Editor has thought proper to retain the fanciful title prefixed by the writer, but has added some Chapter headings. MADAM CONSTANTIA

CountynounUS /ˈkaʊnti/

(United Kingdom) a region created by territorial division for the purpose of local government

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

CravenadjectiveUS /ˈkreɪvən/

lacking even the rudiments of courage; abjectly fearful

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

dealtverbUS /delt/

inflected form of “deal” — act on verbally or in some form of artistic expression

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

decisionnounUS /dɪˈsɪʒən/

the act of making up your mind about something

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

discrimine

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

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

DukenounUS /duːk/

a British peer of the highest rank

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

duringprepositionUS /ˈdʊrɪŋ/

all through a period, or at some point within it

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

EditornounUS /ˈedətər/

a person responsible for the editorial aspects of publication; the person who determines the final content of a text (especially of a newspaper or magazine)

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

EdwardnounUS /ˈedwərd/

King of England and Ireland in 1936; his marriage to Wallis Warfield Simpson created a constitutional crisis leading to his abdication (1894-1972)

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

eitherdeterminerUS /ˈiːðər/

one or the other of two

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

EnglandnounUS /ˈɪŋɡlənd/

a division of the United Kingdom

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

episodenounUS /ˈepəsoʊd/

a happening that is distinctive in a series of related events

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

expansionnounUS /ɪkˈspænʃən/

the act of increasing (something) in size or volume or quantity or scope

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

experiencesnounUS /ɪkˈspɪriənsɪz/

plural of “experience” — the accumulation of knowledge or skill that results from direct participation in events or activities

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

factsnounUS /fækts/

plural of “fact” — a piece of information about circumstances that exist or events that have occurred

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

familynounUS /ˈfæməli/

a social unit living together

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

fancifuladjectiveUS /ˈfænsɪfəl/

indulging in or influenced by fancy

From this reading The Editor has thought proper to retain the fanciful title prefixed by the writer, but has added some Chapter headings. MADAM CONSTANTIA

fifthnounUS /fɪfθ/

a quantity of liquor equal to one fifth of a United States gallon

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

fitverbUS /fɪt/

be agreeable or acceptable to

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

FootnounUS /fʊt/

the part of the leg of a human being below the ankle joint

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

fromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

hasauxiliary verbUS /hæz/

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

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

HepronounUS /hiː/

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

From this reading He has, therefore, with such skill as he possesses prepared it for publication.

headingsnounUS /ˈhedɪŋz/

plural of “heading” — a line of text serving to indicate what the passage below it is about

From this reading The Editor has thought proper to retain the fanciful title prefixed by the writer, but has added some Chapter headings. MADAM CONSTANTIA

HistoricaladjectiveUS /hɪˈstɔːrɪkəl/

of or relating to the study of history

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

HoweveradverbUS /ˌhaʊˈevər/

used to add a contrasting statement

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

IndependencenounUS /ˌɪndɪˈpendəns/

freedom from control or influence of another or others

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

intimateadjectiveUS /ˈɪntəmət/

marked by close acquaintance, association, or familiarity

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/

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

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

itpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading He has, therefore, with such skill as he possesses prepared it for publication.

itsdeterminerUS /ɪts/

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

lateradverbUS /ˈleɪtər/

happening at a time subsequent to a reference time

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

MADAMnounUS /ˈmædəm/

a woman of refinement

From this reading The Editor has thought proper to retain the fanciful title prefixed by the writer, but has added some Chapter headings. MADAM CONSTANTIA

mannounUS /mæn/

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

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

ManuscriptsnounUS /ˈmænjəskrɪpts/

plural of “manuscript” — the form of a literary work submitted for publication

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

manyadjectiveUS /ˈmeni/

a quantifier that can be used with count nouns and is often preceded by “as” or “too” or “so” or “that”; amounting to a large but indefinite number

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

maymodal verbUS /meɪ/

used to say something is possible, or to give permission

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

mihi

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

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

namesnounUS /neɪmz/

verbal abuse; a crude substitute for argument

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

narrativenounUS /ˈnærətɪv/

a message that tells the particulars of an act or occurrence or course of events; presented in writing or drama or cinema or as a radio or television program

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

Northumberlandnoun

the northernmost county of England; has many Roman remains (including Hadrian's Wall)

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

noticedadjectiveUS /ˈnoʊtəst/

being perceived or observed

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

notwithstandingadverbUS /ˌnɑːtwɪθˈstændɪŋ/

despite anything to the contrary (usually preceding a concession)

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

nowadverbUS /naʊ/

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

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

nowherenounUS /ˈnoʊwer/

an insignificant place

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

nullo

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

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

Osgodby

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

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

otheradjectiveUS /ˈʌðər/

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

oweverbUS /oʊ/

be obliged to pay or repay

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

papersnounUS /ˈpeɪpərz/

writing that provides information (especially information of an official nature)

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

passagesnounUS /ˈpæsədʒəz/

plural of “passage” — the act of passing from one state or place to the next

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

poignancynounUS /ˈpɔɪnjənsi/

a state of deeply felt distress or sorrow

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

possessverbUS /pəˈzes/

have as an attribute, knowledge, or skill

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

possessesverbUS /pəˈzesəz/

third-person singular of “possess” — have as an attribute, knowledge, or skill

From this reading He has, therefore, with such skill as he possesses prepared it for publication.

prefixed

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

From this reading The Editor has thought proper to retain the fanciful title prefixed by the writer, but has added some Chapter headings. MADAM CONSTANTIA

preparedadjectiveUS /priˈperd/

made ready or fit or suitable beforehand

From this reading He has, therefore, with such skill as he possesses prepared it for publication.

presentverbUS /ˈprezənt/

give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

printnounUS /prɪnt/

the text appearing in a book, newspaper, or other printed publication

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

properadjectiveUS /ˈprɑːpər/

marked by suitability or rightness or appropriateness

From this reading The Editor has thought proper to retain the fanciful title prefixed by the writer, but has added some Chapter headings. MADAM CONSTANTIA

publicnounUS /ˈpʌblɪk/

people in general considered as a whole

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

publicationnounUS /ˌpʌblɪˈkeɪʃən/

a copy of a printed work offered for distribution

From this reading He has, therefore, with such skill as he possesses prepared it for publication.

reasonnounUS /ˈriːzən/

a rational motive for a belief or action

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

regimentverbUS /ˈredʒəmənt/

subject to rigid discipline, order, and systematization

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

retainverbUS /rɪˈteɪn/

hold back within

From this reading The Editor has thought proper to retain the fanciful title prefixed by the writer, but has added some Chapter headings. MADAM CONSTANTIA

seemedverbUS /siːmd/

past form of “seem” — give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

servedverbUS /sɜːrvd/

past form of “serve” — serve a purpose, role, or function

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

severaladjectiveUS /ˈsevrəl/

(used with count nouns) of an indefinite number more than 2 or 3 but not many

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

SirnounUS /sɜːr/

term of address for a man

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

skillnounUS /skɪl/

an ability that has been acquired by training

From this reading He has, therefore, with such skill as he possesses prepared it for publication.

someadjectiveUS /sʌm/

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

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

somethingpronounUS /ˈsʌmθɪŋ/

a thing, without saying which

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

sourcesnounUS /ˈsɔːrsəz/

plural of “source” — the place where something begins, where it springs into being

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

SouthnounUS /saʊθ/

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

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

standpointnounUS /ˈstændpɔɪnt/

a mental position from which things are viewed

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

storynounUS /ˈstɔːri/

a message that tells the particulars of an act or occurrence or course of events; presented in writing or drama or cinema or as a radio or television program

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

styledverbUS /staɪld/

past form of “style” — designate by an identifying term

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

suchdeterminerUS /sʌtʃ/

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading He has, therefore, with such skill as he possesses prepared it for publication.

suspicionnounUS /səˈspɪʃən/

an impression that something might be the case

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

thanconjunctionUS /ðæn/

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

thereforeadverbUS /ˈðerfɔːr/

for that reason; as a result

From this reading He has, therefore, with such skill as he possesses prepared it for publication.

thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

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

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

thoughtnounUS /θɔːt/

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

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

titlenounUS /ˈtaɪtəl/

a heading that names a statute or legislative bill; may give a brief summary of the matters it deals with

From this reading The Editor has thought proper to retain the fanciful title prefixed by the writer, but has added some Chapter headings. MADAM CONSTANTIA

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

Tros

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

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

Tyriusque

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

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

valuenounUS /ˈvæljuː/

a numerical quantity measured or assigned or computed

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

WarnounUS /wɔːr/

the waging of armed conflict against an enemy

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

Wellington'snounUS /ˈwelɪŋtənz/

possessive form of “wellington” — British general and statesman; he defeated Napoleon at Waterloo; subsequently served as Prime Minister (1769-1852)

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

wideradjectiveUS /ˈwaɪdər/

comparative of “wide” — having great (or a certain) extent from one side to the other

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

willmodal verbUS /wɪl/

used to talk about the future, or about willingness

From this reading It will be noticed that Sir Edward Craven nowhere names the regiment in which he served, but it appears from other sources that it was the 33rd Regiment of Foot, now styled the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading _Tros Tyriusque mihi nullo discrimine agetur_ Although the Historical Manuscripts Commission (England) has dealt with several of the Northumberland Collections, the Commission has not thought fit to print among the papers of the Craven family of Osgodby, the narrative of the fifth baronet’s experiences in South Carolina during the War of American Independence.

worthyadjectiveUS /ˈwɜːr.ði/

Having or showing the qualities or abilities that merit recognition in character or magic.

From this reading However this may be, the story seemed to the present Editor to possess a certain poignancy, and, notwithstanding some intimate passages, to be worthy of a public wider than that of the County of its birth.

writernounUS /ˈraɪtər/

writes (books or stories or articles or the like) professionally (for pay)

From this reading The Editor has thought proper to retain the fanciful title prefixed by the writer, but has added some Chapter headings. MADAM CONSTANTIA

writingnounUS /ˈraɪtɪŋ/

the act of creating written works

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

yearsnounUS /jɪrz/

a late time of life

From this reading The reason for this decision may be either a belief that the episode is not of value from a historical standpoint; or a suspicion that the facts owe something to the expansion of a man writing many years later.

Chapter 1 of Madam Constantia by Jefferson Carter holds 6 sentences, grouped into 2 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 1 of Madam Constantia contain?

Chapter 1 holds 6 sentences of Madam Constantia, unabridged, divided into 2 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 1 of Madam Constantia by Jefferson Carter exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 6 sentences, grouped into 2 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 1 of Madam Constantia?

Work through the 2 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 2 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 1 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 1 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 Madam Constantia

Common questions about reading Madam Constantia by Jefferson Carter on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of Madam Constantia?

Yes. All 0 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #? are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of Madam Constantia is used?

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

How long does Madam Constantia take to read?

About 5 minutes of reading across 0 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read Madam Constantia section by section

How to work through Madam Constantia section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 0 chapters of Madam Constantia 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 Madam Constantia

Words and structures a reader meets early in Madam Constantia, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Chapter 1
One of the 0 chapters of Madam Constantia, divided into 5-sentence reading sections.
Chapter 2
One of the 0 chapters of Madam Constantia, divided into 5-sentence reading sections.
Chapter 3
One of the 0 chapters of Madam Constantia, divided into 5-sentence reading sections.