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The Age of Innocence
The Age of Innocence

Chapter II · Chapter 2

Chapter 2 of The Age of Innocence is here in full — 166 sentences across 34 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Cover illustration for The Age of Innocence
Context Illustration Reading 1/33 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.
Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.
Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.
Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.
A group of young men and girls were gathered about her, and there was much hand-clasping, laughing and pleasantry on which Mrs. Welland, standing slightly apart, shed the beam of a qualified approval.
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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.

The Age of Innocence

Chapter II · Chapter 2

Chapter 2 of The Age of Innocence is here in full — 166 sentences across 34 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/33 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.
Line 2
Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.
Line 3
Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.
Line 4
Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.
Line 5
A group of young men and girls were gathered about her, and there was much hand-clasping, laughing and pleasantry on which Mrs. Welland, standing slightly apart, shed the beam of a qualified approval.

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.

Audacity noun US /ɑːˈdæs.ə.t̬i/

A willingness to take bold risks; insolent and daring boldness that defies all authority.

From this reading “Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.”

All words in this reading · 137

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.

a

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

about

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

aigrettes

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

already

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

and

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

apart

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

From this reading A group of young men and girls were gathered about her, and there was much hand-clasping, laughing and pleasantry on which Mrs. Welland, standing slightly apart, shed the beam of a qualified approval.

approval

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

From this reading A group of young men and girls were gathered about her, and there was much hand-clasping, laughing and pleasantry on which Mrs. Welland, standing slightly apart, shed the beam of a qualified approval.

Archer

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

at

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

audacitynounUS /ɑːˈdæs.ə.t̬i/

A willingness to take bold risks; insolent and daring boldness that defies all authority.

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

ball-room

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

be

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

beam

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

From this reading A group of young men and girls were gathered about her, and there was much hand-clasping, laughing and pleasantry on which Mrs. Welland, standing slightly apart, shed the beam of a qualified approval.

Beaufort

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

before

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

betrothed's

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

beyond

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

blossoms

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

Bouguereau

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

bouquet

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

bouton

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

box

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

brief

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

burning

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

candid

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

candles

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

carried

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

champion

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

chivalrously

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

club

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

coiffures

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

Couples

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

cousin

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

d'or

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

dancers

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

dashing

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

daughter

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

determined

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

door

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

drawing-room

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

eager

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

ever

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

evidently

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

excitement

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

eyes

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

face

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

fell

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

felt

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

floor

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

found

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

fresh

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

From

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

gathered

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

From this reading A group of young men and girls were gathered about her, and there was much hand-clasping, laughing and pleasantry on which Mrs. Welland, standing slightly apart, shed the beam of a qualified approval.

girlish

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

girls

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

From this reading A group of young men and girls were gathered about her, and there was much hand-clasping, laughing and pleasantry on which Mrs. Welland, standing slightly apart, shed the beam of a qualified approval.

glacé

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

glazed

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

gliding

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

glitter

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

gloves

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

grave

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

group

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

From this reading A group of young men and girls were gathered about her, and there was much hand-clasping, laughing and pleasantry on which Mrs. Welland, standing slightly apart, shed the beam of a qualified approval.

had

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

hand

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

hand-clasping

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

From this reading A group of young men and girls were gathered about her, and there was much hand-clasping, laughing and pleasantry on which Mrs. Welland, standing slightly apart, shed the beam of a qualified approval.

hang

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

he

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

heads

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

her

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

highly

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

his

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

how

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

hung

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

in

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

join

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

laughing

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

From this reading A group of young men and girls were gathered about her, and there was much hand-clasping, laughing and pleasantry on which Mrs. Welland, standing slightly apart, shed the beam of a qualified approval.

less

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

light

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

lilies-of-the-valley

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

little

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

Love

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

married

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

men

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

From this reading A group of young men and girls were gathered about her, and there was much hand-clasping, laughing and pleasantry on which Mrs. Welland, standing slightly apart, shed the beam of a qualified approval.

Miss

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

mistake

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

modest

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

more

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

Mrs

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

much

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

From this reading A group of young men and girls were gathered about her, and there was much hand-clasping, laughing and pleasantry on which Mrs. Welland, standing slightly apart, shed the beam of a qualified approval.

much-discussed

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

near

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

no

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

nude

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

of

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

on

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

Opera

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

ornaments

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

other

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

over

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

pale

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

perceived

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

pleasantry

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

From this reading A group of young men and girls were gathered about her, and there was much hand-clasping, laughing and pleasantry on which Mrs. Welland, standing slightly apart, shed the beam of a qualified approval.

qualified

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

From this reading A group of young men and girls were gathered about her, and there was much hand-clasping, laughing and pleasantry on which Mrs. Welland, standing slightly apart, shed the beam of a qualified approval.

revolving

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

see

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

she

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

shed

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

From this reading A group of young men and girls were gathered about her, and there was much hand-clasping, laughing and pleasantry on which Mrs. Welland, standing slightly apart, shed the beam of a qualified approval.

shirt-fronts

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

skirts

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

slightly

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

From this reading A group of young men and girls were gathered about her, and there was much hand-clasping, laughing and pleasantry on which Mrs. Welland, standing slightly apart, shed the beam of a qualified approval.

standing

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

talk

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

than

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

that

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

the

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

their

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

there

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

From this reading A group of young men and girls were gathered about her, and there was much hand-clasping, laughing and pleasantry on which Mrs. Welland, standing slightly apart, shed the beam of a qualified approval.

thing

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

though

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

threshold

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

From this reading Miss Welland, evidently about to join the dancers, hung on the threshold, her lilies-of-the-valley in her hand (she carried no other bouquet), her face a little pale, her eyes burning with a candid excitement.

through

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

to

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

tone

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

tulle

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

Victorious

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

Wandering

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

was

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

wax

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

Welland

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

were

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

where

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

From this reading Wandering on to the bouton d'or drawing-room (where Beaufort had had the audacity to hang "Love Victorious," the much-discussed nude of Bouguereau) Archer found Mrs. Welland and her daughter standing near the ball-room door.

which

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

From this reading A group of young men and girls were gathered about her, and there was much hand-clasping, laughing and pleasantry on which Mrs. Welland, standing slightly apart, shed the beam of a qualified approval.

with

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

women's

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

would

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

From this reading From the tone of the club box he had perceived how grave a mistake that would be; and, though he was more than ever determined to "see the thing through," he felt less chivalrously eager to champion his betrothed's cousin than before their brief talk at the Opera.

wreathed

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

young

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

From this reading Couples were already gliding over the floor beyond: the light of the wax candles fell on revolving tulle skirts, on girlish heads wreathed with modest blossoms, on the dashing aigrettes and ornaments of the young married women's coiffures, and on the glitter of highly glazed shirt-fronts and fresh _glacé_ gloves.

Chapter 2 of The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton holds 166 sentences, grouped into 34 reading sections of at most 5 sentences. The text is the public-domain source, 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 2 of The Age of Innocence contain?

Chapter 2 holds 166 sentences of The Age of Innocence, unabridged, divided into 34 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 2 of The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton exactly as it stands in the public-domain source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 166 sentences, grouped into 34 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 2 of The Age of Innocence?

Work through the 34 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 34 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 2 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 2 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 The Age of Innocence

Common questions about reading The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of The Age of Innocence?

Yes. All 4855 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #541 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of The Age of Innocence is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #541, a public-domain edition. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does The Age of Innocence take to read?

About 404 minutes of reading across 971 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read The Age of Innocence section by section

How to work through The Age of Innocence section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 30 chapters of The Age of Innocence 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 The Age of Innocence

Words and structures a reader meets early in The Age of Innocence, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

January
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Age of Innocence; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Evening
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Age of Innocence; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Early
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Age of Innocence; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Seventies
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Age of Innocence; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.