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Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour
Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour

Chapter XXIX · Chapter 29

Chapter 29 of Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour is here in full — 398 sentences across 80 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Cover illustration for Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour
Context Illustration Reading 1/79 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.
It was the kennel, stable, and servants' hall courier of Nonsuch House, come to say that Sir Harry hunted that day.
Presently Mr. Leather knocked at Mr. Sponge's bedroom door, and, being invited in, announced the fact.
'Sir 'Arry's 'ounds 'unt,' said he, twisting the door handle as he spoke.
'What time?' asked Mr. Sponge, with his half-shaven face turned towards him.
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AI-generated narration by OpenAI · Slow US English
LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour

Chapter XXIX · Chapter 29

Chapter 29 of Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour is here in full — 398 sentences across 80 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/79 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.
Line 2
It was the kennel, stable, and servants' hall courier of Nonsuch House, come to say that Sir Harry hunted that day.
Line 3
Presently Mr. Leather knocked at Mr. Sponge's bedroom door, and, being invited in, announced the fact.
Line 4
'Sir 'Arry's 'ounds 'unt,' said he, twisting the door handle as he spoke.
Line 5
'What time?' asked Mr. Sponge, with his half-shaven face turned towards him.

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.

courier noun US /ˈkɜːriər/

a person who carries a message

From this reading “It was the kennel, stable, and servants' hall courier of Nonsuch House, come to say that Sir Harry hunted that day.”

intelligible adjective US /ˌɪnˈtelədʒəbəl/

capable of being apprehended or understood

From this reading “SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.”

kennel noun US /ˈkenəl/

outbuilding that serves as a shelter for a dog

From this reading “It was the kennel, stable, and servants' hall courier of Nonsuch House, come to say that Sir Harry hunted that day.”

razor noun US /ˈreɪzər/

edge tool used in shaving

From this reading “SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.”

soapy adjective US /ˈsoʊpi/

resembling or having the qualities of soap

From this reading “SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.”

Sponge verb US /spʌndʒ/

wipe with a sponge, so as to clean or moisten

From this reading “SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.”

twisting noun US /ˈtwɪstɪŋ/

the act of distorting something so it seems to mean something it was not intended to mean

From this reading “'Sir 'Arry's 'ounds 'unt,' said he, twisting the door handle as he spoke.”

vagrancy noun US /ˈveɪɡrənsi/

the state of wandering from place to place; having no permanent home or means of livelihood

From this reading “SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.”

All words in this reading · 91

Every word in these five lines is listed here, and every one of them can be played on its own.

Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.

adeterminerUS /ə/

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

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

afterprepositionUS /ˈæftər/

later than; following

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

announcedadjectiveUS /əˈnaʊnst/

declared publicly; made widely known

From this reading Presently Mr. Leather knocked at Mr. Sponge's bedroom door, and, being invited in, announced the fact.

armynounUS /ˈɑːrmi/

a permanent organization of the military land forces of a nation or state

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

Arry's

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

From this reading 'Sir 'Arry's 'ounds 'unt,' said he, twisting the door handle as he spoke.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

askedverbUS /æskt/

past form of “ask” — make a request or demand for something to somebody

From this reading 'What time?' asked Mr. Sponge, with his half-shaven face turned towards him.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

bedroomnounUS /ˈbedruːm/

a room used primarily for sleeping

From this reading Presently Mr. Leather knocked at Mr. Sponge's bedroom door, and, being invited in, announced the fact.

beingauxiliary verbUS /ˈbiːɪŋ/

the -ing form of “be”

From this reading Presently Mr. Leather knocked at Mr. Sponge's bedroom door, and, being invited in, announced the fact.

betokened

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

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

chinnounUS /tʃɪn/

the protruding part of the lower jaw

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

coatnounUS /koʊt/

an outer garment that has sleeves and covers the body from shoulder down; worn outdoors

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

comeverbUS /kʌm/

move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody

From this reading It was the kennel, stable, and servants' hall courier of Nonsuch House, come to say that Sir Harry hunted that day.

couriernounUS /ˈkɜːriər/

a person who carries a message

From this reading It was the kennel, stable, and servants' hall courier of Nonsuch House, come to say that Sir Harry hunted that day.

daynounUS /deɪ/

time for Earth to make a complete rotation on its axis

From this reading It was the kennel, stable, and servants' hall courier of Nonsuch House, come to say that Sir Harry hunted that day.

departurenounUS /dɪˈpɑːrtʃər/

the act of departing

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

didauxiliary verbUS /dɪd/

the past form of “do”, used in questions and negatives

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

doornounUS /dɔːr/

a swinging or sliding barrier that will close the entrance to a room or building or vehicle

From this reading Presently Mr. Leather knocked at Mr. Sponge's bedroom door, and, being invited in, announced the fact.

facenounUS /feɪs/

the front of the human head from the forehead to the chin and ear to ear

From this reading 'What time?' asked Mr. Sponge, with his half-shaven face turned towards him.

factnounUS /fækt/

a piece of information about circumstances that exist or events that have occurred

From this reading Presently Mr. Leather knocked at Mr. Sponge's bedroom door, and, being invited in, announced the fact.

fadedadjectiveUS /ˈfeɪdəd/

having lost freshness or brilliance of color

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

givenadjectiveUS /ˈɡɪvən/

acknowledged as a supposition

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

half-shaven

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

From this reading 'What time?' asked Mr. Sponge, with his half-shaven face turned towards him.

hallnounUS /hɔːl/

an interior passage or corridor onto which rooms open

From this reading It was the kennel, stable, and servants' hall courier of Nonsuch House, come to say that Sir Harry hunted that day.

handleverbUS /ˈhændəl/

be in charge of, act on, or dispose of

From this reading 'Sir 'Arry's 'ounds 'unt,' said he, twisting the door handle as he spoke.

HARRYverbUS /ˈheri/

annoy continually or chronically

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

hepronounUS /hiː/

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

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

himpronounUS /hɪm/

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

From this reading 'What time?' asked Mr. Sponge, with his half-shaven face turned towards him.

hintnounUS /hɪnt/

an indirect suggestion

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

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

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

hostnounUS /hoʊst/

a person who invites guests to a social event (such as a party in his or her own home) and who is responsible for them while they are there

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

HOUNDSnounUS /haʊndz/

plural of “hound” — any of several breeds of dog used for hunting typically having large drooping ears

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

housenounUS /haʊs/

a dwelling that serves as living quarters for one or more families

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

huntedadjectiveUS /ˈhʌntəd/

reflecting the fear or terror of one who is hunted

From this reading It was the kennel, stable, and servants' hall courier of Nonsuch House, come to say that Sir Harry hunted that day.

hunting-cap

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

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

intelligibleadjectiveUS /ˌɪnˈtelədʒəbəl/

capable of being apprehended or understood

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

invitedverbUS /ˌɪnˈvaɪtəd/

past form of “invite” — increase the likelihood of

From this reading Presently Mr. Leather knocked at Mr. Sponge's bedroom door, and, being invited in, announced the fact.

ItpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading It was the kennel, stable, and servants' hall courier of Nonsuch House, come to say that Sir Harry hunted that day.

kennelnounUS /ˈkenəl/

outbuilding that serves as a shelter for a dog

From this reading It was the kennel, stable, and servants' hall courier of Nonsuch House, come to say that Sir Harry hunted that day.

knockedverbUS /nɑːkt/

past form of “knock” — deliver a sharp blow or push

From this reading Presently Mr. Leather knocked at Mr. Sponge's bedroom door, and, being invited in, announced the fact.

ladnounUS /læd/

a boy or man

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

LeathernounUS /ˈleðər/

an animal skin made smooth and flexible by removing the hair and then tanning

From this reading Presently Mr. Leather knocked at Mr. Sponge's bedroom door, and, being invited in, announced the fact.

makingnounUS /ˈmeɪkɪŋ/

the act that results in something coming to be

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

moreadjectiveUS /mɔːr/

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

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

MrnounUS /ˈmɪstər/

a form of address for a man

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

Nonsuchnoun

model of excellence or perfection of a kind; one having no equal

From this reading It was the kennel, stable, and servants' hall courier of Nonsuch House, come to say that Sir Harry hunted that day.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading It was the kennel, stable, and servants' hall courier of Nonsuch House, come to say that Sir Harry hunted that day.

ordinarynounUS /ˈɔːrdəneri/

a judge of a probate court

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

ounds

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

From this reading 'Sir 'Arry's 'ounds 'unt,' said he, twisting the door handle as he spoke.

overprepositionUS /ˈoʊvər/

above and across; more than

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

pacenounUS /peɪs/

the rate of moving (especially walking or running)

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

passingnounUS /ˈpæsɪŋ/

(American football) a play that involves one player throwing the ball to a teammate

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

PresentlyadverbUS /ˈprezəntli/

in the near future

From this reading Presently Mr. Leather knocked at Mr. Sponge's bedroom door, and, being invited in, announced the fact.

prettyadjectiveUS /ˈprɪti/

pleasing by delicacy or grace; not imposing

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

purply

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

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

razornounUS /ˈreɪzər/

edge tool used in shaving

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

reasonnounUS /ˈriːzən/

a rational motive for a belief or action

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

saidadjectiveUS /sed/

being the one previously mentioned or spoken of

From this reading 'Sir 'Arry's 'ounds 'unt,' said he, twisting the door handle as he spoke.

sawverbUS /sɔː/

cut with a saw

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

sayverbUS /seɪ/

express in words

From this reading It was the kennel, stable, and servants' hall courier of Nonsuch House, come to say that Sir Harry hunted that day.

SCATTERCASH'S

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

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

servantsnounUS /ˈsɜːrvənts/

plural of “servant” — a person working in the service of another (especially in the household)

From this reading It was the kennel, stable, and servants' hall courier of Nonsuch House, come to say that Sir Harry hunted that day.

shillingnounUS /ˈʃɪlɪŋ/

the basic unit of money in Uganda; equal to 100 cents

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

SIRnounUS /sɜːr/

term of address for a man

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

soapyadjectiveUS /ˈsoʊpi/

resembling or having the qualities of soap

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

spokenounUS /spoʊk/

support consisting of a radial member of a wheel joining the hub to the rim

From this reading 'Sir 'Arry's 'ounds 'unt,' said he, twisting the door handle as he spoke.

SpongeverbUS /spʌndʒ/

wipe with a sponge, so as to clean or moisten

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

Sponge's

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

From this reading Presently Mr. Leather knocked at Mr. Sponge's bedroom door, and, being invited in, announced the fact.

stableadjectiveUS /ˈsteɪbəl/

resistant to change of position or condition

From this reading It was the kennel, stable, and servants' hall courier of Nonsuch House, come to say that Sir Harry hunted that day.

stockingless

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

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

takeverbUS /teɪk/

carry out

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

thanconjunctionUS /ðæn/

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

ThedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

timenounUS /taɪm/

an instance or single occasion for some event

From this reading 'What time?' asked Mr. Sponge, with his half-shaven face turned towards him.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

towardsprepositionUS /təˈwɔːrdz/

in the direction of

From this reading 'What time?' asked Mr. Sponge, with his half-shaven face turned towards him.

turnedadjectiveUS /tɜːrnd/

moved around an axis or center

From this reading 'What time?' asked Mr. Sponge, with his half-shaven face turned towards him.

twistingnounUS /ˈtwɪstɪŋ/

the act of distorting something so it seems to mean something it was not intended to mean

From this reading 'Sir 'Arry's 'ounds 'unt,' said he, twisting the door handle as he spoke.

unt

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

From this reading 'Sir 'Arry's 'ounds 'unt,' said he, twisting the door handle as he spoke.

upadjectiveUS /ʌp/

being or moving higher in position or greater in some value; being above a former position or level

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

vagrancynounUS /ˈveɪɡrənsi/

the state of wandering from place to place; having no permanent home or means of livelihood

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

waynounUS /weɪ/

how something is done or how it happens

From this reading SIR HARRY SCATTERCASH'S HOUNDS The reason Mr. Sponge did not take his departure, after the pretty intelligible hint given by his host, was that, as he was passing his shilling army razor over his soapy chin, he saw a stockingless lad, in a purply coat and faded hunting-cap, making his way up to the house, at a pace that betokened more than ordinary vagrancy.

WhatpronounUS /wʌt/

used to ask for information about something

From this reading 'What time?' asked Mr. Sponge, with his half-shaven face turned towards him.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading 'What time?' asked Mr. Sponge, with his half-shaven face turned towards him.

Chapter 29 of Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour by Robert Smith Surtees holds 398 sentences, grouped into 80 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 29 of Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour contain?

Chapter 29 holds 398 sentences of Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour, unabridged, divided into 80 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 29 of Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour by Robert Smith Surtees exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 398 sentences, grouped into 80 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 29 of Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour?

Work through the 80 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 80 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 29 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 29 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 Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour

Common questions about reading Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour by Robert Smith Surtees on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour?

Yes. All 7800 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #16957 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #16957, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour take to read?

About 600 minutes of reading across 1560 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour section by section

How to work through Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 40 chapters of Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour 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 Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour

Words and structures a reader meets early in Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Murky
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
October
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Sponge
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Soapey
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Mr. Sponge's Sporting Tour; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.