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The Book of Buried Treasure
The Book of Buried Treasure

Chapter XI

Chapter 11 of The Book of Buried Treasure is here in full — 194 sentences across 39 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

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Context Illustration Reading 1/38 · 5 lines
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THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.
Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.
More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.
In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.
In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

The Book of Buried Treasure

Chapter XI

Chapter 11 of The Book of Buried Treasure is here in full — 194 sentences across 39 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/38 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.
Line 2
Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.
Line 3
More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.
Line 4
In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.
/ɪn taɪm lɔɪdz ˈkɔːfihaʊs wɑːz ˈrekəɡnaɪzd æz ə sɔːrt ʌv ˌʌnəˈfɪʃəl ˈhedkwɔːrtərz fɔːr ðɪs ˈspeʃəl vərˈaɪəti ʌv ˌɪnˈʃʊrəns ˌspekjəˈleɪʃən ənd ðə ˈdʒentəlmɪn moʊst ˈæktɪv ðer ˈdrɪftəd ˈɪntuː ə ˈluːsli fɔːrmd ˌɔːrɡənəˈzeɪʃən fɔːr ðə ˈpɜːrpəs ʌv ˈmeɪkɪŋ ðə ˈbɪznəs les ˈhæzərdəs/
Line 5
In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

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.

coffeehouse noun US /ˈkɔːfihaʊs/

a small restaurant where drinks and snacks are sold

From this reading “More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.”

Harbored verb US /ˈhɑːrbərd/

past form of “harbor” — maintain (a theory, thoughts, or feelings)

From this reading “THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.”

Lloyd's noun US /lɔɪdz/

possessive form of “lloyd” — United States comic actor in silent films; he used physical danger as a source of comedy (1893-1971)

From this reading “THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.”

maritime adjective US /ˈmerətaɪm/

relating to or involving ships or shipping or navigation or seamen

From this reading “Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.”

Napoleon's noun US /nəˈpoʊliənz/

possessive form of “napoleon” — French general who became emperor of the French (1769-1821)

From this reading “In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.”

underwriters noun US /ˈʌndərraɪtərz/

plural of “underwriter” — a banker who deals chiefly in underwriting new securities

From this reading “More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.”

underwriting verb US /ˈʌndərˈraɪtɪŋ/

-ing form of “underwrite” — guarantee financial support of

From this reading “Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.”

unofficial adjective US /ˌʌnəˈfɪʃəl/

not having official authority or sanction

From this reading “In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.”

Word partnerships in these lines

English keeps certain words together, and knowing the pair is worth more than knowing each word alone. Every partnership below was counted across our whole published library, and earns its place by appearing far more often than two unrelated words of the same frequency would.

Shown as this reading writes them, with the form the library counts, what kind of pairing it is, and how often it occurs.

seafaring men noun + noun

In this reading “THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.”

hundred years noun + noun

In this reading “More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.”

two hundred noun + noun

being ten more than one hundred ninety

In this reading “More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.”

important matters adjective + noun counted as “important matter”

In this reading “More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.”

most active adverb + adjective

In this reading “In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.”

drifted into verb + particle counted as “drift into”

In this reading “In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.”

for the purpose preposition + article + noun counted as “for … purpose”

In this reading “In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.”

chief business noun + noun

In this reading “Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.”

All words in this reading · 140

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.

1773

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

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

adeterminerUS /ə/

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

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

activeadjectiveUS /ˈæktɪv/

tending to become more severe or wider in scope

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

adventurousadjectiveUS /ædˈventʃərəs/

willing to undertake or seeking out new and daring enterprises

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

againstprepositionUS /əˈɡenst/

touching and pressing; in opposition to

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

agoadverbUS /əˈɡoʊ/

in the past

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

ancientadjectiveUS /ˈeɪn.ʃənt/

Belonging to the very distant past and no longer in existence or deeply revered.

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

appointedadjectiveUS /əˈpɔɪntɪd/

subject to appointment

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

arrivalsnounUS /ərˈaɪvəlz/

plural of “arrival” — accomplishment of an objective

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

associationnounUS /əˌsoʊsiˈeɪʃən/

a formal organization of people or groups of people

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

becameverbUS /bɪˈkeɪm/

inflected form of “become” — enter or assume a certain state or condition

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

becauseconjunctionUS /bɪˈkɔːz/

for the reason that

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

betweenprepositionUS /bɪˈtwiːn/

in the space, time, or range separating two things

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

bodynounUS /ˈbɑːdi/

the entire physical structure of an organism (an animal, plant, or human being)

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

brokersnounUS /ˈbroʊkərz/

plural of “broker” — a businessman who buys or sells for another in exchange for a commission

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

businessnounUS /ˈbɪznəs/

a commercial or industrial enterprise and the people who constitute it

From this reading Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.

captainsnounUS /ˈkæptənz/

plural of “captain” — an officer holding a rank below a major but above a lieutenant

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

chancesnounUS /ˈtʃænsəz/

plural of “chance” — a possibility due to a favorable combination of circumstances

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

chiefnounUS /tʃiːf/

a person who is in charge

From this reading Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.

CitynounUS /ˈsɪti/

a large and densely populated urban area; may include several independent administrative districts

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

coffeehousenounUS /ˈkɔːfihaʊs/

a small restaurant where drinks and snacks are sold

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

committeenounUS /kəˈmɪti/

a special group delegated to consider some matter

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

controlnounUS /kənˈtroʊl/

power to direct or determine

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

convenientadjectiveUS /kənˈviːnjənt/

suited to your comfort or purpose or needs

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

corporationnounUS /ˌkɔːrpərˈeɪʃən/

a business firm whose articles of incorporation have been approved in some state

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

discussedverbUS /dɪˈskʌst/

past form of “discuss” — to consider or examine in speech or writing

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

downadjectiveUS /daʊn/

being or moving lower in position or less in some value

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

driftedverbUS /ˈdrɪftəd/

past form of “drift” — be in motion due to some air or water current

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

edificenounUS /ˈedəfəs/

a structure that has a roof and walls and stands more or less permanently in one place

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

EdwardnounUS /ˈedwərd/

King of England and Ireland in 1936; his marriage to Wallis Warfield Simpson created a constitutional crisis leading to his abdication (1894-1972)

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

ExchangenounUS /ɪksˈtʃeɪndʒ/

chemical process in which one atom or ion or group changes places with another

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

familynounUS /ˈfæməli/

a social unit living together

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

flyverbUS /flaɪ/

travel through the air; be airborne

From this reading Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.

fondadjectiveUS /fɑːnd/

having or displaying warmth or affection

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

formedadjectiveUS /fɔːrmd/

having or given a form or shape

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

FRIGATEnounUS /ˈfrɪɡət/

a medium size square-rigged warship of the 18th and 19th centuries

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

gamblingnounUS /ˈɡæmbəlɪŋ/

the act of playing for stakes in the hope of winning (including the payment of a price for a chance to win a prize)

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

gentlemennounUS /ˈdʒentəlmɪn/

plural of “gentleman” — a man of refinement

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

governingadjectiveUS /ˈɡʌvərnɪŋ/

responsible for making and enforcing rules and laws

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

HarboredverbUS /ˈhɑːrbərd/

past form of “harbor” — maintain (a theory, thoughts, or feelings)

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

hazardousadjectiveUS /ˈhæzərdəs/

involving risk or danger

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

headquartersnounUS /ˈhedkwɔːrtərz/

(usually plural) the office that serves as the administrative center of an enterprise

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

heartnounUS /hɑːrt/

the locus of feelings and intuitions

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

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

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

house-flags

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

From this reading Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.

hundrednounUS /ˈhʌndrəd/

ten 10s

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

importantadjectiveUS /ˌɪmˈpɔːrtənt/

of great significance or value

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

insurancenounUS /ˌɪnˈʃʊrəns/

promise of reimbursement in the case of loss; paid to people or companies so concerned about hazards that they have made prepayments to an insurance company

From this reading Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.

insureverbUS /ˌɪnˈʃʊr/

be careful or certain to do something; make certain of something

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/

moving to the inside of something

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/

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

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

ItsdeterminerUS /ɪts/

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.

keptadjectiveUS /kept/

(especially of promises or contracts) not violated or disregarded

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

knownadjectiveUS /noʊn/

apprehended with certainty

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

lateradverbUS /ˈleɪtər/

happening at a time subsequent to a reference time

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

lawnounUS /lɔː/

the collection of rules imposed by authority

From this reading Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.

lengthnounUS /leŋkθ/

the linear extent in space from one end to the other; the longest dimension of something that is fixed in place

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

lessadverbUS /les/

used to form the comparative of some adjectives and adverbs

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

lifenounUS /laɪf/

a characteristic state or mode of living

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

LloydnounUS /lɔɪd/

United States comic actor in silent films; he used physical danger as a source of comedy (1893-1971)

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

Lloyd'snounUS /lɔɪdz/

possessive form of “lloyd” — United States comic actor in silent films; he used physical danger as a source of comedy (1893-1971)

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

LondonnounUS /ˈlʌndən/

the capital and largest city of England; located on the Thames in southeastern England; financial and industrial and cultural center

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

looselyadverbUS /ˈluːsli/

in a relaxed manner; not rigid

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

LUTINE

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

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

makingnounUS /ˈmeɪkɪŋ/

the act that results in something coming to be

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

mannounUS /mæn/

an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

maritimeadjectiveUS /ˈmerətaɪm/

relating to or involving ships or shipping or navigation or seamen

From this reading Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.

mattersnounUS /ˈmætərz/

plural of “matter” — a vaguely specified concern

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

mennounUS /men/

the force of workers available

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

merchantnounUS /ˈmɜːr.tʃənt/

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

From this reading Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.

missingadjectiveUS /ˈmɪsɪŋ/

not able to be found

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

MoreadjectiveUS /mɔːr/

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

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

mostadverbUS /moʊst/

used to form the superlative

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

movedadjectiveUS /muːvd/

being excited or provoked to the expression of an emotion

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

MYSTERYnounUS /ˈmɪstəri/

something that baffles understanding and cannot be explained

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

nameverbUS /neɪm/

assign a specified (usually proper) proper name to

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

Napoleon'snounUS /nəˈpoʊliənz/

possessive form of “napoleon” — French general who became emperor of the French (1769-1821)

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

OFprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

onprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

onepronounUS /wʌn/

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

organizationnounUS /ˌɔːrɡənəˈzeɪʃən/

a group of people who work together

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

overprepositionUS /ˈoʊvər/

above and across; more than

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

placenounUS /pleɪs/

a point located with respect to surface features of some region

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

popularadjectiveUS /ˈpɑːpjələr/

regarded with great favor, approval, or affection especially by the general public

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

portnounUS /pɔːrt/

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

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

powerfuladjectiveUS /ˈpaʊərfəl/

having great power or force or potency or effect

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

purposenounUS /ˈpɜːrpəs/

an anticipated outcome that is intended or that guides your planned actions

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

recognizedadjectiveUS /ˈrekəɡnaɪzd/

generally approved or compelling recognition

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

resortnounUS /rɪˈzɔːrt/

a hotel located in a resort area

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

risknounUS /rɪsk/

a source of danger; a possibility of incurring loss or misfortune

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

risksnounUS /rɪsks/

plural of “risk” — a source of danger; a possibility of incurring loss or misfortune

From this reading Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.

RoyaladjectiveUS /ˈrɔɪəl/

of or relating to or indicative of or issued or performed by a king or queen or other monarch

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

rumorsnounUS /ˈruːmərz/

plural of “rumor” — gossip (usually a mixture of truth and untruth) passed around by word of mouth

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

seanounUS /siː/

a division of an ocean or a large body of salt water partially enclosed by land

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

seafaringnoun

the work of a sailor

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

shippingnounUS /ˈʃɪpɪŋ/

the commercial enterprise of moving goods and materials

From this reading Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.

shipsnounUS /ʃɪps/

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

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

sidenounUS /saɪd/

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

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

situationnounUS /ˌsɪtʃuːˈeɪʃən/

the general state of things; the combination of circumstances at a given time

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

sortnounUS /sɔːrt/

a category of things distinguished by some common characteristic or quality

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

specialadjectiveUS /ˈspeʃəl/

unique or specific to a person or thing or category

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

speculationnounUS /ˌspekjəˈleɪʃən/

a message expressing an opinion based on incomplete evidence

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

spiritsnounUS /ˈspɪrɪts/

an alcoholic beverage that is distilled rather than fermented

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

statelyadjectiveUS /ˈsteɪtli/

impressive in appearance

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

StreetnounUS /striːt/

a thoroughfare (usually including sidewalks) that is lined with buildings

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

suchdeterminerUS /sʌtʃ/

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

takingnounUS /ˈteɪkɪŋ/

the act of someone who picks up or takes something

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

ThamesnounUS /temz/

the longest river in England; flows eastward through London to the North Sea

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

thanconjunctionUS /ðæn/

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

THEdeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

thereadverbUS /ðer/

in or at that place or location

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

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

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

thoroughfarenounUS /ˈθɜːroʊfer/

a public road from one place to another

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

timenounUS /taɪm/

an instance or single occasion for some event

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

TowernounUS /ˈtaʊər/

a structure taller than its diameter; can stand alone or be attached to a larger building

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

twinsnounUS /twɪnz/

(mineralogy) two interwoven crystals that are mirror images on each other

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

twonounUS /tuː/

the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one or a numeral representing this number

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

undertakeverbUS /ˈʌndərteɪk/

enter upon an activity or enterprise

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

underwritersnounUS /ˈʌndərraɪtərz/

plural of “underwriter” — a banker who deals chiefly in underwriting new securities

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

underwritingverbUS /ˈʌndərˈraɪtɪŋ/

-ing form of “underwrite” — guarantee financial support of

From this reading Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.

unofficialadjectiveUS /ˌʌnəˈfɪʃəl/

not having official authority or sanction

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

varietynounUS /vərˈaɪəti/

a collection containing a variety of sorts of things

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

Wapping

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

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

warnounUS /wɔːr/

the waging of armed conflict against an enemy

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading In time Lloyd's coffeehouse was recognized as a sort of unofficial headquarters for this special variety of insurance speculation, and the gentlemen most active there drifted into a loosely formed organization for the purpose of making the business less hazardous.

wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/

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

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

whereverconjunctionUS /weˈrevər/

in or to any place at all

From this reading Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.

whopronounUS /huː/

which person or people

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

wordnounUS /wɜːrd/

a unit of language that native speakers can identify

From this reading Its chief business is the underwriting of maritime insurance risks and its word is law wherever fly the house-flags of merchant shipping.

worldnounUS /wɜːrld/

everything that exists anywhere

From this reading THE MYSTERY OF THE LUTINE FRIGATE Harbored in the stately edifice of the Royal Exchange, down in the heart of London City, is that ancient and powerful corporation known to seafaring men the world over as Lloyd's.

wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/

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

From this reading In 1773, this association of underwriters moved into the Royal Exchange, taking the name of Lloyd's, and later appointed a governing body or committee to control the more adventurous spirits who were fond of gambling on the chances of war, on the length of Napoleon's life, and who would undertake to insure a man against the risk of twins in his family.

wrecksnounUS /reks/

plural of “wreck” — something or someone that has suffered ruin or dilapidation

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

yearsnounUS /jɪrz/

a late time of life

From this reading More than two hundred years ago, one Edward Lloyd kept a coffeehouse in Tower Street, a thoroughfare between Wapping and the Thames side of the city, and because of its convenient situation the place became a popular resort for sea captains, underwriters, and insurance brokers who discussed such important matters as arrivals in port, wrecks, missing ships, and rumors of war.

Chapter 11 of The Book of Buried Treasure by Ralph Delahaye Paine holds 194 sentences, grouped into 39 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 11 of The Book of Buried Treasure contain?

Chapter 11 holds 194 sentences of The Book of Buried Treasure, unabridged, divided into 39 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 11 of The Book of Buried Treasure by Ralph Delahaye Paine exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 194 sentences, grouped into 39 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 11 of The Book of Buried Treasure?

Work through the 39 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 39 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 11 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 11 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 Book of Buried Treasure

Common questions about reading The Book of Buried Treasure by Ralph Delahaye Paine on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of The Book of Buried Treasure?

Yes. All 4409 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #33318 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of The Book of Buried Treasure is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #33318, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does The Book of Buried Treasure take to read?

About 367 minutes of reading across 882 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read The Book of Buried Treasure section by section

How to work through The Book of Buried Treasure section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 16 chapters of The Book of Buried Treasure 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 Book of Buried Treasure

Words and structures a reader meets early in The Book of Buried Treasure, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

World-wide
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Book of Buried Treasure; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Vanished
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Book of Buried Treasure; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Riches
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Book of Buried Treasure; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Language
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Book of Buried Treasure; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.