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Possessed
Possessed

Chapter V · Chapter 5

Chapter 5 of Possessed is here in full — 155 sentences across 31 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

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Context Illustration Reading 1/31 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.
At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.
He had served gallantly in the war and he was now, for quite understandable reasons, desperately in love with Penelope Wells.
On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.
For some time he had wanted to talk with the doctor about Penelope's nervous condition.
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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.

Possessed

Chapter V · Chapter 5

Chapter 5 of Possessed is here in full — 155 sentences across 31 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/31 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.
Line 2
At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.
/æt ˈθɜːrdifaɪv hiː hæd meɪd fɔːr hɪmˈself æn ˈenviəbəl pəˈzɪʃən æz ə nuː jɔːrk ˈɑːrkətekt wʌn huː wɑːz ˈeɪbəl tuː straɪk aʊt ˈboʊldli ɪn nuː laɪnz waɪl meɪnˈteɪnɪŋ ə ˈriːzənəbəl rɪˈspekt fɔːr ˈvenərəbəl trəˈdɪʃənz/
Line 3
He had served gallantly in the war and he was now, for quite understandable reasons, desperately in love with Penelope Wells.
/hiː hæd sɜːrvd ˈɡæləntli ɪn ðə wɔːr ənd hiː wɑːz naʊ fɔːr kwaɪt ˌʌndərˈstændəbəl ˈriːzənz ˈdespərətli ɪn lʌv wɪð pəˈneləpi welz/
Line 4
On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.
Line 5
For some time he had wanted to talk with the doctor about Penelope's nervous condition.

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.

enviable adjective US /ˈenviəbəl/

causing envy

From this reading “At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.”

gallantly adverb US /ˈɡæləntli/

in a gallant manner

From this reading “He had served gallantly in the war and he was now, for quite understandable reasons, desperately in love with Penelope Wells.”

Herrick noun US /ˈherɪk/

English lyric poet (1591-1674)

From this reading “WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.”

maintaining verb US /meɪnˈteɪnɪŋ/

-ing form of “maintain” — cause to continue in a certain state, position, or activity; e.g., “keep clean”

From this reading “At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.”

Penelope noun US /pəˈneləpi/

(Greek mythology) the wife of Odysseus and a symbol of devotion and fidelity; for 10 years while Odysseus fought the Trojan War she resisted numerous suitors until Odysseus returned and killed them

From this reading “He had served gallantly in the war and he was now, for quite understandable reasons, desperately in love with Penelope Wells.”

poignant adjective US /ˈpɔɪnjənt/

arousing affect

From this reading “WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.”

strangeness noun US /ˈstreɪndʒnəs/

unusualness as a consequence of not being well known

From this reading “WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.”

understandable adjective US /ˌʌndərˈstændəbəl/

capable of being apprehended or understood

From this reading “He had served gallantly in the war and he was now, for quite understandable reasons, desperately in love with Penelope Wells.”

All words in this reading · 111

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 WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

ableadjectiveUS /ˈeɪbəl/

(usually followed by “to”) having the necessary means or skill or know-how or authority to do something

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

aboutprepositionUS /əˈbaʊt/

on the subject of; concerning

From this reading For some time he had wanted to talk with the doctor about Penelope's nervous condition.

acceptedadjectiveUS /ækˈseptɪd/

generally approved or compelling recognition

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

almostadverbUS /ˈɔːlmoʊst/

(of actions or states) slightly short of or not quite accomplished; all but

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

altogetheradverbUS /ˌɔːltəˈɡeðər/

to a complete degree or to the full or entire extent (“whole” is often used informally for “wholly”)

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

andeterminerUS /æn/

the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

architectnounUS /ˈɑːrkətekt/

someone who creates plans to be used in making something (such as buildings)

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

ATprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/

the past participle of “be”

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

boldlyadverbUS /ˈboʊldli/

with boldness, in a bold manner

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

CaptainnounUS /ˈkæptən/

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

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

ChristophernounUS /ˈkrɪstəfər/

Christian martyr and patron saint of travellers (3rd century)

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

concernedadjectiveUS /kənˈsɜːrnd/

feeling or showing worry or solicitude

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

conditionnounUS /kənˈdɪʃən/

a state at a particular time

From this reading For some time he had wanted to talk with the doctor about Penelope's nervous condition.

desirableadjectiveUS /dɪˈzaɪrəbəl/

worth having or seeking or achieving

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

desperatelyadverbUS /ˈdespərətli/

with great urgency

From this reading He had served gallantly in the war and he was now, for quite understandable reasons, desperately in love with Penelope Wells.

dineverbUS /daɪn/

have supper; eat dinner

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

discussverbUS /dɪˈskʌs/

to consider or examine in speech or writing

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

doctornounUS /ˈdɑːktər/

a licensed medical practitioner

From this reading For some time he had wanted to talk with the doctor about Penelope's nervous condition.

Dr

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

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

eagerlyadverbUS /ˈiːɡərli/

with eagerness; in an eager manner

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

enviableadjectiveUS /ˈenviəbəl/

causing envy

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

eveningnounUS /ˈiːvnɪŋ/

the latter part of the day (the period of decreasing daylight from late afternoon until nightfall)

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

exclusivelyadverbUS /ɪkˈskluːsɪvli/

without any others being included or involved

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

experiencesnounUS /ɪkˈspɪriənsɪz/

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

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

fellownounUS /ˈfeloʊ/

a boy or man

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

fineadjectiveUS /faɪn/

being satisfactory or in satisfactory condition

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

ForprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

friendnounUS /frend/

a person you know well and regard with affection and trust

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

gallantlyadverbUS /ˈɡæləntli/

in a gallant manner

From this reading He had served gallantly in the war and he was now, for quite understandable reasons, desperately in love with Penelope Wells.

generallyadverbUS /ˈdʒenərəli/

usually; as a rule

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/

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

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

handsomeadjectiveUS /ˈhænsəm/

pleasing in appearance especially by reason of conformity to ideals of form and proportion

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

HAPPENEDverbUS /ˈhæpənd/

past form of “happen” — come to pass

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

hepronounUS /hiː/

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

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

HerricknounUS /ˈherɪk/

English lyric poet (1591-1674)

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

himselfpronounUS /hɪmˈself/

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

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

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

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

husbandnounUS /ˈhʌzbənd/

a married man; a woman's partner in marriage

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

immediateadjectiveUS /ˌɪˈmiːdiːət/

of the present time and place

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

importancenounUS /ˌɪmˈpɔːrtəns/

the quality of being important and worthy of note

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/

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

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

itpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

knownadjectiveUS /noʊn/

apprehended with certainty

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

linesnounUS /laɪnz/

plural of “line” — a formation of people or things one beside another

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

lovenounUS /lʌv/

a strong positive emotion of regard and affection

From this reading He had served gallantly in the war and he was now, for quite understandable reasons, desperately in love with Penelope Wells.

lovernounUS /ˈlʌvər/

a person who loves someone or is loved by someone

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

madeadjectiveUS /meɪd/

produced by a manufacturing process

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

maintainingverbUS /meɪnˈteɪnɪŋ/

-ing form of “maintain” — cause to continue in a certain state, position, or activity; e.g., “keep clean”

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

matternounUS /ˈmætər/

a vaguely specified concern

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

modestadjectiveUS /ˈmɑːdəst/

marked by simplicity; having a humble opinion of yourself

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

muchadverbUS /mʌtʃ/

to a great degree or extent

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

narrativenounUS /ˈnærətɪv/

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

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

nervousadjectiveUS /ˈnɜːrvəs/

easily agitated

From this reading For some time he had wanted to talk with the doctor about Penelope's nervous condition.

NewadjectiveUS /nuː/

not of long duration; having just (or relatively recently) come into being or been made or acquired or discovered

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

nowadverbUS /naʊ/

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

From this reading He had served gallantly in the war and he was now, for quite understandable reasons, desperately in love with Penelope Wells.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

officernounUS /ˈɔːfəsər/

any person in the armed services who holds a position of authority or command

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

OnprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

onepronounUS /wʌn/

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

outadjectiveUS /aʊt/

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

OwennounUS /ˈoʊən/

Welsh industrialist and social reformer who founded cooperative communities (1771-1858)

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

particularadjectiveUS /pərˈtɪkjələr/

unique or specific to a person or thing or category

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

PenelopenounUS /pəˈneləpi/

(Greek mythology) the wife of Odysseus and a symbol of devotion and fidelity; for 10 years while Odysseus fought the Trojan War she resisted numerous suitors until Odysseus returned and killed them

From this reading He had served gallantly in the war and he was now, for quite understandable reasons, desperately in love with Penelope Wells.

Penelope's

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

From this reading For some time he had wanted to talk with the doctor about Penelope's nervous condition.

poignantadjectiveUS /ˈpɔɪnjənt/

arousing affect

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

positionnounUS /pəˈzɪʃən/

the particular portion of space occupied by something

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

purposesnounUS /ˈpɜːrpəsəz/

plural of “purpose” — an anticipated outcome that is intended or that guides your planned actions

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

quiteadverbUS /kwaɪt/

to a degree (not used with a negative)

From this reading He had served gallantly in the war and he was now, for quite understandable reasons, desperately in love with Penelope Wells.

REALLYadverbUS /ˈrɪli/

in accordance with truth or fact or reality

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

reasonableadjectiveUS /ˈriːzənəbəl/

showing reason or sound judgment

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

reasonsnounUS /ˈriːzənz/

plural of “reason” — a rational motive for a belief or action

From this reading He had served gallantly in the war and he was now, for quite understandable reasons, desperately in love with Penelope Wells.

respectnounUS /rɪˈspekt/

(usually preceded by “in”) a detail or point

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

respectedadjectiveUS /rɪˈspektɪd/

receiving deferential regard

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

sayverbUS /seɪ/

express in words

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

servedverbUS /sɜːrvd/

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

From this reading He had served gallantly in the war and he was now, for quite understandable reasons, desperately in love with Penelope Wells.

someadjectiveUS /sʌm/

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

From this reading For some time he had wanted to talk with the doctor about Penelope's nervous condition.

strangenessnounUS /ˈstreɪndʒnəs/

unusualness as a consequence of not being well known

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

strikeverbUS /straɪk/

deliver a sharp blow, as with the hand, fist, or weapon

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

STUDIOnounUS /ˈstuːdioʊ/

workplace for the teaching or practice of an art

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

sufficientadjectiveUS /səˈfɪʃənt/

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

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

summonedverbUS /ˈsʌmənd/

past form of “summon” — call in an official matter, such as to attend court

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

talkverbUS /tɔːk/

exchange thoughts; talk with

From this reading For some time he had wanted to talk with the doctor about Penelope's nervous condition.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

THEdeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

thirty-fiveadjectiveUS /ˈθɜːrdifaɪv/

being five more than thirty

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

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

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

timenounUS /taɪm/

an instance or single occasion for some event

From this reading For some time he had wanted to talk with the doctor about Penelope's nervous condition.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

traditionsnounUS /trəˈdɪʃənz/

plural of “tradition” — an inherited pattern of thought or action

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

understandableadjectiveUS /ˌʌndərˈstændəbəl/

capable of being apprehended or understood

From this reading He had served gallantly in the war and he was now, for quite understandable reasons, desperately in love with Penelope Wells.

venerableadjectiveUS /ˈvenərəbəl/

impressive by reason of age

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

wantedadjectiveUS /ˈwɔːntɪd/

desired or wished for or sought

From this reading For some time he had wanted to talk with the doctor about Penelope's nervous condition.

warnounUS /wɔːr/

the waging of armed conflict against an enemy

From this reading He had served gallantly in the war and he was now, for quite understandable reasons, desperately in love with Penelope Wells.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

well-to-doadjective

in fortunate circumstances financially; moderately rich

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

WellsnounUS /welz/

prolific English writer best known for his science-fiction novels; he also wrote on contemporary social problems and wrote popular accounts of history and science (1866-1946)

From this reading He had served gallantly in the war and he was now, for quite understandable reasons, desperately in love with Penelope Wells.

WHATpronounUS /wʌt/

used to ask for information about something

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

whenconjunctionUS /wen/

at the time that

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

whileconjunctionUS /waɪl/

during the time that

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

whopronounUS /huː/

which person or people

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

woman'snounUS /ˈwʊmənz/

possessive form of “woman” — an adult female person (as opposed to a man)

From this reading WHAT REALLY HAPPENED AT THE STUDIO For the purposes of this narrative, which is concerned almost exclusively with the poignant strangeness of a woman's experiences, it is sufficient to say that Captain Christopher Herrick was what is generally known as a fine fellow--handsome, modest, well-to-do, altogether desirable as a lover and a husband.

YorknounUS /jɔːrk/

the English royal house (a branch of the Plantagenet line) that reigned from 1461 to 1485; its emblem was a white rose

From this reading At thirty-five he had made for himself an enviable position as a New York architect, one who was able to strike out boldly in new lines while maintaining a reasonable respect for venerable traditions.

youngadjectiveUS /jʌŋ/

(used of living things especially persons) in an early period of life or development or growth

From this reading On this particular evening when Christopher had been summoned by his much respected friend, Dr. Owen, to dine and discuss a matter of immediate importance, the young officer had accepted eagerly.

Chapter 5 of Possessed by Cleveland Moffett holds 155 sentences, grouped into 31 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 5 of Possessed contain?

Chapter 5 holds 155 sentences of Possessed, unabridged, divided into 31 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 5 of Possessed by Cleveland Moffett exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 155 sentences, grouped into 31 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 5 of Possessed?

Work through the 31 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 31 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 5 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 5 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 Possessed

Common questions about reading Possessed by Cleveland Moffett on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of Possessed?

Yes. All 4139 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #22152 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of Possessed is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #22152, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does Possessed take to read?

About 344 minutes of reading across 828 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read Possessed section by section

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

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 21 chapters of Possessed 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 Possessed

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

Penelope
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Possessed; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Moved
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Possessed; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Nervously
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Possessed; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Chair
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Possessed; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.