Chapter XXV · The Cottagers

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

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

any specific behavior

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

struck with fear, dread, or consternation

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

a mixture of gases (especially oxygen) required for breathing; the stuff that the wind consists of

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

surrounded by; in the middle of a group

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

a sloping gallery with seats for spectators (as in an operating room or theater)

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

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

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

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

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

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

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

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

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

relating to the use of or having the nature of a declaration

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

filled with the emotional impact of overwhelming surprise or shock

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

delighting the senses or exciting intellectual or emotional admiration

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

the qualities that give pleasure to the senses

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

the past participle of “be”

From this reading Mr. Forester had been recognised from a distance.

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

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

plural of “child” — a young person of either sex

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

a state of being relaxed and feeling no pain

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

undergo condensation; change from a gaseous to a liquid state and fall in drops

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

plural of “cottage” — a small house with a single story

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

greatly pleased

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

the property created by the space between two objects or points

From this reading Mr. Forester had been recognised from a distance.

plural of “dwelling” — housing that someone is living in

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

every one of two or more people or things, taken separately

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

the system of production and distribution and consumption

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

increased in extent or size or bulk or scope

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

communicated in words

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

intense or sharp

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

be a farmer; work as a farmer

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

plural of “farm” — workplace consisting of farm buildings and cultivated land as a unit

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

duplicator that transmits the copy by wire or radio

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

experiencing or showing fear

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

United States comedian and film actor (1880-1946)

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

come upon, as if by accident; meet with

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

English writer of adventure novels featuring Captain Horatio Hornblower (1899-1966)

From this reading Mr. Forester had been recognised from a distance.

the cardinal number that is the sum of three and one

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading Mr. Forester had been recognised from a distance.

a plot of ground where plants are cultivated

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

plural of “garden” — a plot of ground where plants are cultivated

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

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

From this reading Mr. Forester had been recognised from a distance.

state of well-being characterized by emotions ranging from contentment to intense joy

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

a healthy state of wellbeing free from disease

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

plural of “hill” — a local and well-defined elevation of the land

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

someone who rejects the established culture; advocates extreme liberalism in politics and lifestyle

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

characteristic of humanity

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

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

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

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

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

characterized by an inability to mask your feelings; not devious

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

plural of “inhabitant” — a person who inhabits a particular place

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

moving to the inside of something

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

The state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions on one's way of life.

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

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

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

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

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

of or befitting a lord

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

(astrology) one of 12 equal areas into which the zodiac is divided

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

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 Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

plural of “meadow” — a field where grass or alfalfa are grown to be made into hay

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

very unhappy; full of misery

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

fail to perceive or to catch with the senses or the mind

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

preside over

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

belonging to the modern era; since the Middle Ages

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

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

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

a form of address for a man

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

a form of address for a married woman

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

the state of being neat and smart and trim

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

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

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

and nothing more

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

(often plural) a command given by a superior (e.g., a military or law enforcement officer) that must be obeyed

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

above and across; more than

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

have ownership or possession of

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

of or relating to a pastor

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

a course of conduct

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

to become aware of through the senses

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

completely and without qualification; used informally as intensifiers

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

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

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

participate in games or sport

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

deserving or inciting pity

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

the people who inhabit a territory or state

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

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

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

provided with a secure reputation

From this reading Mr. Forester had been recognised from a distance.

belonging to or befitting a supreme ruler

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

reflecting optimism

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

living in or characteristic of farming or country life

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

perception by means of the eyes

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

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

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

being or characteristic of a single thing or person

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

term of address for a man

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

the unlimited expanse in which everything is located

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

very large in expanse or scope

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

exhibiting or calling for sportsmanship or fair play

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.

the territory occupied by one of the constituent administrative districts of a nation

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

a natural body of running water flowing on or under the earth

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

dotted or adorned with or as with studs or nailheads; usually used in combination

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

of a quantity that can fulfill a need or requirement but without being abundant

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

the astonishment you feel when something totally unexpected happens to you

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

closely encircling

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

the branch of military science dealing with detailed maneuvers to achieve objectives set by strategy

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

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

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

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

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

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

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

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

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

plural of “tree” — a tall perennial woody plant having a main trunk and branches forming a distinct elevated crown; includes both gymnosperms and angiosperms

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

a long depression in the surface of the land that usually contains a river

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

a state of depression

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

plural of “vassal” — a person holding a fief; a person who owes allegiance and service to a feudal lord

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

plural of “voice” — the distinctive quality or pitch or condition of a person's speech

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

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

From this reading Sir Telegraph was astonished to find so many human dwellings in a space that, on the modern tactics of rural economy, appeared only sufficient for three or four _moderate_ farms; and Mr. Fax looked perfectly aghast to perceive the principle of population in such a fearful state of activity.

(often used as a combining form) in a good or proper or satisfactory manner or to a high standard (“good” is a nonstandard dialectal variant for “well”)

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

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

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

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

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

during the time that

From this reading Mrs. and Miss Pinmoney expressed their surprise at not seeing a single lordly mansion asserting its regal pre-eminence over the dwellings of its miserable vassals; while the voices of the children at play served only to condense the vapours that obfuscated the imagination of poor Mr. Hippy.

marked by repeated turns and bends

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

in the company of; together with

From this reading The valley expanded into a spacious amphitheatre, with a beautiful stream winding among pastoral meadows, which, as well as the surrounding hills, were studded with cottages, each with its own trees, its little garden, and its farm.

an injury to living tissue (especially an injury involving a cut or break in the skin)

From this reading Anthelia, as their path wound among the cottages, was more and more delighted with the neatness and comfort of the dwellings, the exquisite order of the gardens, the ingenuous air of happiness and liberty that characterised the simple inhabitants, and the health and beauty of the little rosy children that were sporting in the fields.