Chapter XXX

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

on the subject of; concerning

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

touching and pressing; in opposition to

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

following the length of something from one end toward the other

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

in spite of the fact that

From this reading If only he had Shirley and Burke with him, he thought; but although they were not here, he had Edna to fight for, and that made three men of himself.

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

one or some or every or all without specification

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

separated or at a distance in place or position or time

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

surrounding, or on every side of, something

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

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

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

(military) an offensive against an enemy (using weapons)

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

obtainable or accessible and ready for use or service

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

expected hopefully

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

from a particular thing or place or position (“forth” is obsolete)

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

a hostile meeting of opposing military forces in the course of a war

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

come out better in a competition, race, or conflict

From this reading He was so sure that he had men enough to beat down the scoundrels when they tried to board that he thought the quicker the fight began, the better.

inflected form of “begin” — take the first step or steps in carrying out an action

From this reading He was so sure that he had men enough to beat down the scoundrels when they tried to board that he thought the quicker the fight began, the better.

at or toward the back of something

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

(comparative of “good”) superior to another (of the same class or set or kind) in excellence or quality or desirability or suitability; more highly skilled than another

From this reading He was so sure that he had men enough to beat down the scoundrels when they tried to board that he thought the quicker the fight began, the better.

a committee having supervisory powers

From this reading He was so sure that he had men enough to beat down the scoundrels when they tried to board that he thought the quicker the fight began, the better.

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

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

British statesman famous for his oratory; pleaded the cause of the American colonists in British Parliament and defended the parliamentary system (1729-1797)

From this reading If only he had Shirley and Burke with him, he thought; but although they were not here, he had Edna to fight for, and that made three men of himself.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

an officer holding a rank below a major but above a lieutenant

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

(physics) a brief event in which two or more bodies come together

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

the act of drawing spatially closer to something

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

an open clash between two opposing groups (or individuals)

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

education imparted in a series of lessons or meetings

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

-ing form of “crouch” — bend one's back forward from the waist on down

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

the condition of being susceptible to harm or injury

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

any of various platforms built into a vessel

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

an inclination or desire; used in the plural in the phrase “left to your own devices”

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

having lost your job

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

having finished or arrived at completion

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

being or moving lower in position or less in some value

From this reading He was so sure that he had men enough to beat down the scoundrels when they tried to board that he thought the quicker the fight began, the better.

with ease (“easy” is sometimes used informally for “easily”)

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

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

From this reading If only he had Shirley and Burke with him, he thought; but although they were not here, he had Edna to fight for, and that made three men of himself.

escape, either physically or mentally

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

cause to be embarrassed; cause to feel self-conscious

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

an adequate quantity; a quantity that is large enough to achieve a purpose

From this reading He was so sure that he had men enough to beat down the scoundrels when they tried to board that he thought the quicker the fight began, the better.

more quickly

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

bringing death

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

be engaged in a fight; carry on a fight

From this reading He was so sure that he had men enough to beat down the scoundrels when they tried to board that he thought the quicker the fight began, the better.

preceding all others in time or space or degree

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading If only he had Shirley and Burke with him, he thought; but although they were not here, he had Edna to fight for, and that made three men of himself.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

the act of departing

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

plural of “gunshot” — the act of shooting a gun

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

having a heading or course in a certain direction

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

in or at this place; where the speaker or writer is

From this reading If only he had Shirley and Burke with him, he thought; but although they were not here, he had Edna to fight for, and that made three men of himself.

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

used when the man or boy doing the action is also its object

From this reading If only he had Shirley and Burke with him, he thought; but although they were not here, he had Edna to fight for, and that made three men of himself.

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

a noisemaker (as at parties or games) that makes a loud noise when you blow through it

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

plural of “house” — a dwelling that serves as living quarters for one or more families

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading If only he had Shirley and Burke with him, he thought; but although they were not here, he had Edna to fight for, and that made three men of himself.

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

without delay or hesitation; with no time intervening

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

resulting from one's intentions

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

below the surround or below the normal position

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

produced by a manufacturing process

From this reading If only he had Shirley and Burke with him, he thought; but although they were not here, he had Edna to fight for, and that made three men of himself.

engage in

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

past form of “manage” — be successful; achieve a goal

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

plural of “mattress” — a large thick pad filled with resilient material and often incorporating coiled springs, used as a bed or part of a bed

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

the force of workers available

From this reading He was so sure that he had men enough to beat down the scoundrels when they tried to board that he thought the quicker the fight began, the better.

A person or company involved in wholesale trade, especially with foreign countries.

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

a town in western California to the south of San Francisco on a peninsula at the southern end of Monterey Bay

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

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

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

used to form the superlative

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

to a great degree or extent

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading If only he had Shirley and Burke with him, he thought; but although they were not here, he had Edna to fight for, and that made three men of himself.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

and nothing more

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

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

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

have ownership or possession of

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

someone who uses another person's words or ideas as if they were his own

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

unmistakably (“plain” is often used informally for “plainly”)

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

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

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

with considerable certainty; without much doubt

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

kept safe or defended from danger or injury or loss

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

lengthen in time; cause to be or last longer

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

more quickly

From this reading He was so sure that he had men enough to beat down the scoundrels when they tried to board that he thought the quicker the fight began, the better.

-ing form of “reverse” — change to the contrary

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

move fast by using one's feet, with one foot off the ground at any given time

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

plural of “scoundrel” — a wicked or evil person; someone who does evil deliberately

From this reading He was so sure that he had men enough to beat down the scoundrels when they tried to board that he thought the quicker the fight began, the better.

a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

transport commercially

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

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

From this reading If only he had Shirley and Burke with him, he thought; but although they were not here, he had Edna to fight for, and that made three men of himself.

past form of “show” — give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

a place within a region identified relative to a center or reference location

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

small or little relative to something else

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

a large tall chimney through which combustion gases and smoke can be evacuated

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

the right side of a ship or aircraft to someone who is aboard and facing the bow or nose

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

a clam that is usually steamed in the shell

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

filled with steam or emitting moisture in the form of vapor or mist

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

the act of guiding or showing the way

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

having or feeling no doubt or uncertainty; confident and assured

From this reading He was so sure that he had men enough to beat down the scoundrels when they tried to board that he thought the quicker the fight began, the better.

sweep across or over

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading He was so sure that he had men enough to beat down the scoundrels when they tried to board that he thought the quicker the fight began, the better.

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

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

From this reading If only he had Shirley and Burke with him, he thought; but although they were not here, he had Edna to fight for, and that made three men of himself.

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

in the direction of

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

tested and proved useful or correct

From this reading He was so sure that he had men enough to beat down the scoundrels when they tried to board that he thought the quicker the fight began, the better.

hard to endure

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

the act of turning aside suddenly

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

a tube in which a body fluid circulates

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

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

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

how something is done or how it happens

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

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

From this reading If only he had Shirley and Burke with him, he thought; but although they were not here, he had Edna to fight for, and that made three men of himself.

the countries of (originally) Europe and (now including) North America and South America

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

at the time that

From this reading THE BATTLE OF THE MERCHANT SHIPS When the _Vittorio_ showed that in veering away from the _Monterey_ she had done so only in order to make a sweep around to the west, and when she had headed south and the mattresses lowered along her starboard side showed plainly to Captain Horn that she was about to attack him and how she was going to do it, his first thought was to embarrass her by reversing his course and steering this way and that, but he instantly dismissed this idea.

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

From this reading With most of his men crouching behind his port bulwarks, and others protected by deck houses, smokestack, and any other available devices against gunshots, Captain Horn awaited the coming of the pirate steamer, which was steaming towards him as if it intended to run him down.

in the company of; together with

From this reading If only he had Shirley and Burke with him, he thought; but although they were not here, he had Edna to fight for, and that made three men of himself.

used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past

From this reading The pirate vessel was smaller and faster than his own, and probably much more easily managed, and apart from the danger of a collision fatal to his ship, he would only protract the conflict by trying to elude her.