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The Boy Craftsman
The Boy Craftsman

Chapter XXVIII

Chapter 28 of The Boy Craftsman is here in full — 101 sentences across 21 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Cover illustration for The Boy Craftsman
Context Illustration Reading 1/20 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.
If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.
Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.
Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.
The adaption of a set of works to =An Automobile Touring-car= is shown in Figs.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

The Boy Craftsman

Chapter XXVIII

Chapter 28 of The Boy Craftsman is here in full — 101 sentences across 21 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/20 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.
Line 2
If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.
Line 3
Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.
/bɪˈfɔːr ˈteɪkɪŋ ə set ʌv wɜːrks əˈpɑːrt ɪt ɪz wel tuː ɪɡˈzæmɪn ɪt ˈkerfəli ənd noʊt ðə pəˈzɪʃənz ʌv ðə ˈveriəs sprɪŋz ənd wiːlz soʊ ɪt wɪl biː ˈpɑːsəbəl tuː pʊt ðem təˈɡeðər əˈɡen ˈprɑːpərli ʃʊd juː wɪʃ tuː duː soʊ/
Line 4
Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.
/wɪˈθaʊt ˈteɪkɪŋ ˈnoʊtəs ʌv ðɪs juː ɑːr ˈlaɪkli tuː hæv ə ˈhændfʊl ʌv wiːlz æz ə rɪˈzʌlt wɪð wɪtʃ juː kæn duː ˈnʌθɪŋ ɪkˈsept pərˈhæps ˈkɑːnvərt ðem ˈɪntuː tɑːps/
Line 5
The adaption of a set of works to =An Automobile Touring-car= is shown in Figs.

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.

automobiles noun US /ˈɔːtəmoʊbiːlz/

plural of “automobile” — a motor vehicle with four wheels; usually propelled by an internal combustion engine

From this reading “CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.”

clockwork noun US /ˈklɑːkwɜːrk/

any mechanism of geared wheels that is driven by a coiled spring; resembles the works of a mechanical clock

From this reading “CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.”

discarded adjective US /dɪˈskɑːrdɪd/

thrown away

From this reading “CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.”

Figs noun US /fɪɡz/

plural of “fig” — a diagram or picture illustrating textual material

From this reading “The adaption of a set of works to =An Automobile Touring-car= is shown in Figs.”

intact adjective US /ˌɪnˈtækt/

constituting the undiminished entirety; lacking nothing essential especially not damaged

From this reading “If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.”

mechanism noun US /ˈmekənɪzəm/

the atomic process that occurs during a chemical reaction

From this reading “If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.”

storeroom noun US /ˈstɔːrruːm/

a room in which things are stored

From this reading “CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.”

tinkering verb US /ˈtɪŋkərɪŋ/

-ing form of “tinker” — do random, unplanned work or activities or spend time idly

From this reading “If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.”

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.

highly probable adverb + adjective

In this reading “If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.”

working order adjective + noun

In this reading “If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.”

some sort adjective + noun

In this reading “CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.”

Without taking preposition + noun

In this reading “Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.”

taking notice noun + noun

In this reading “Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.”

almost certain adverb + adjective

In this reading “CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.”

except perhaps preposition + adverb

In this reading “Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.”

hold of verb + particle

In this reading “CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.”

All words in this reading · 102

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

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

adeterminerUS /ə/

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

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

adaptionnoun

the process of adapting to something (such as environmental conditions)

From this reading The adaption of a set of works to =An Automobile Touring-car= is shown in Figs.

againadverbUS /əˈɡen/

anew

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

almostadverbUS /ˈɔːlmoʊst/

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

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

AndeterminerUS /æn/

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

From this reading The adaption of a set of works to =An Automobile Touring-car= is shown in Figs.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

apartadverbUS /əˈpɑːrt/

separated or at a distance in place or position or time

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/

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

From this reading Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

AutomobilenounUS /ˈɔːtəmoʊbiːl/

a motor vehicle with four wheels; usually propelled by an internal combustion engine

From this reading The adaption of a set of works to =An Automobile Touring-car= is shown in Figs.

AUTOMOBILESnounUS /ˈɔːtəmoʊbiːlz/

plural of “automobile” — a motor vehicle with four wheels; usually propelled by an internal combustion engine

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

BeforeprepositionUS /bɪˈfɔːr/

earlier than; in front of

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

boynounUS /bɔɪ/

a youthful male person

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

boysnounUS /bɔɪz/

plural of “boy” — a youthful male person

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

canmodal verbUS /kæn/

to be able to, or to be allowed to

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

carefullyadverbUS /ˈkerfəli/

taking care or paying attention

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

certainadjectiveUS /ˈsɜːrtən/

definite but not specified or identified

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

cleaningnounUS /ˈkliːnɪŋ/

the act of making something clean

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

clocknounUS /klɑːk/

a timepiece that shows the time of day

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

CLOCKWORKnounUS /ˈklɑːkwɜːrk/

any mechanism of geared wheels that is driven by a coiled spring; resembles the works of a mechanical clock

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

clockworks

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

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

convertverbUS /ˈkɑːnvərt/

change from one system to another or to a new plan or policy

From this reading Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.

discardedadjectiveUS /dɪˈskɑːrdɪd/

thrown away

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

doauxiliary verbUS /duː/

used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

easyadjectiveUS /ˈiːzi/

posing no difficulty; requiring little effort

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

enginesnounUS /ˈendʒənz/

plural of “engine” — motor that converts thermal energy to mechanical work

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

examineverbUS /ɪɡˈzæmɪn/

consider in detail and subject to an analysis in order to discover essential features or meaning

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

exceptprepositionUS /ɪkˈsept/

apart from; not including

From this reading Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.

FigsnounUS /fɪɡz/

plural of “fig” — a diagram or picture illustrating textual material

From this reading The adaption of a set of works to =An Automobile Touring-car= is shown in Figs.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

foundverbUS /faʊnd/

set up or found

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

generallyadverbUS /ˈdʒenərəli/

usually; as a rule

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

getverbUS /ɡet/

come into the possession of something concrete or abstract

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

handfulnounUS /ˈhændfʊl/

a small number or amount

From this reading Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.

haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.

highlyadverbUS /ˈhaɪli/

to a high degree or extent; favorably or with much respect

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

holdverbUS /hoʊld/

cause to continue in a certain state, position, or activity; e.g., “keep clean”

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

householdnounUS /ˈhaʊshoʊld/

a social unit living together

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

IfconjunctionUS /ɪf/

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

intactadjectiveUS /ˌɪnˈtækt/

constituting the undiminished entirety; lacking nothing essential especially not damaged

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

interestnounUS /ˈɪntrəst/

a sense of concern with and curiosity about someone or something

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/

moving to the inside of something

From this reading Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.

isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/

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

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

ItpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

leastadjectiveUS /liːst/

the superlative of “little” that can be used with mass nouns and is usually preceded by “the”; a quantifier meaning smallest in amount or extent or degree

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

likelyadjectiveUS /ˈlaɪkli/

has a good chance of being the case or of coming about

From this reading Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.

littleadjectiveUS /ˈlɪtəl/

limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

main-spring

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

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

mechanicaladjectiveUS /məˈkænɪkəl/

using (or as if using) mechanisms or tools or devices

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

mechanismnounUS /ˈmekənɪzəm/

the atomic process that occurs during a chemical reaction

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

mostadverbUS /moʊst/

used to form the superlative

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

notenounUS /noʊt/

a brief written record

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

nothingpronounUS /ˈnʌθɪŋ/

not one thing; not anything

From this reading Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.

noticenounUS /ˈnoʊtəs/

an announcement containing information about an event

From this reading Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

oldadjectiveUS /oʊld/

(used especially of persons) having lived for a relatively long time or attained a specific age

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

ordernounUS /ˈɔːrdər/

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

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

otheradjectiveUS /ˈʌðər/

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

perhapsadverbUS /pərˈhæps/

by chance

From this reading Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.

positionsnounUS /pəˈzɪʃənz/

plural of “position” — the particular portion of space occupied by something

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

possibleadjectiveUS /ˈpɑːsəbəl/

capable of happening or existing

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

probableadjectiveUS /ˈprɑːbəbəl/

likely but not certain to be or become true or real

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

properlyadverbUS /ˈprɑːpərli/

in the right manner; correctly; suitably

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

putverbUS /pʊt/

put into a certain place or abstract location

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

resultnounUS /rɪˈzʌlt/

a phenomenon that follows and is caused by some previous phenomenon

From this reading Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.

runningadjectiveUS /ˈrʌnɪŋ/

(of fluids) moving or issuing in a stream

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

setverbUS /set/

put into a certain place or abstract location

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

shouldmodal verbUS /ʃʊd/

used to say what is right, expected, or advisable

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

shownverbUS /ʃoʊn/

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

From this reading The adaption of a set of works to =An Automobile Touring-car= is shown in Figs.

smalladjectiveUS /smɔːl/

limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

soconjunctionUS /soʊ/

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

someadjectiveUS /sʌm/

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

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

sortnounUS /sɔːrt/

a category of things distinguished by some common characteristic or quality

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

springsnounUS /sprɪŋz/

plural of “spring” — the season of growth

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

storeroomnounUS /ˈstɔːrruːm/

a room in which things are stored

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

sufficientadjectiveUS /səˈfɪʃənt/

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

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

takingnounUS /ˈteɪkɪŋ/

the act of someone who picks up or takes something

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

thempronounUS /ðem/

the people or things already mentioned, as the object

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

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

From this reading Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.

tinkeringverbUS /ˈtɪŋkərɪŋ/

-ing form of “tinker” — do random, unplanned work or activities or spend time idly

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading CLOCKWORK AUTOMOBILES It is generally easy for a boy to get hold of a set of old clockworks, for a discarded clock of some sort is almost certain to be found in the household storeroom.

togetheradverbUS /təˈɡeðər/

in contact with each other or in proximity

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

topsadjectiveUS /tɑːps/

of the highest quality

From this reading Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.

Touring-car

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

From this reading The adaption of a set of works to =An Automobile Touring-car= is shown in Figs.

toysnounUS /tɔɪz/

plural of “toy” — an artifact designed to be played with

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

usedadjectiveUS /juːzd/

employed in accomplishing something

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

variousadjectiveUS /ˈveriəs/

of many different kinds purposefully arranged but lacking any uniformity

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

welladverbUS /wel/

(often used as a combining form) in a good or proper or satisfactory manner or to a high standard (“good” is a nonstandard dialectal variant for “well”)

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

wheelsnounUS /wiːlz/

plural of “wheel” — a simple machine consisting of a circular frame with spokes (or a solid disc) that can rotate on a shaft or axle (as in vehicles or other machines)

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.

willmodal verbUS /wɪl/

used to talk about the future, or about willingness

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

wishverbUS /wɪʃ/

hope for; have a wish

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.

WithoutprepositionUS /wɪˈθaʊt/

not having, not using, or not accompanied by

From this reading Without taking notice of this, you are likely to have a handful of wheels as a result, with which you can do nothing except perhaps convert them into tops.

workingadjectiveUS /ˈwɜːrkɪŋ/

actively engaged in paid work

From this reading If the main-spring is intact, it is highly probable that a little tinkering and cleaning will be sufficient to put the mechanism in working order, at least so that it can be used for running small engines, automobiles, and other mechanical toys that most interest boys.

worksnounUS /wɜːrks/

buildings for carrying on industrial labor

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

youpronounUS /juː/

the person or people being spoken to

From this reading Before taking a set of works apart, it is well to examine it carefully and note the positions of the various springs and wheels, so it will be possible to put them together again properly should you wish to do so.

Chapter 28 of The Boy Craftsman by A. Neely (Albert Neely) Hall holds 101 sentences, grouped into 21 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 28 of The Boy Craftsman contain?

Chapter 28 holds 101 sentences of The Boy Craftsman, unabridged, divided into 21 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 28 of The Boy Craftsman by A. Neely (Albert Neely) Hall exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 101 sentences, grouped into 21 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 28 of The Boy Craftsman?

Work through the 21 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 21 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 28 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 28 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 Boy Craftsman

Common questions about reading The Boy Craftsman by A. Neely (Albert Neely) Hall on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of The Boy Craftsman?

Yes. All 2982 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #42650 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of The Boy Craftsman is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #42650, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does The Boy Craftsman take to read?

About 248 minutes of reading across 597 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read The Boy Craftsman section by section

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

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 34 chapters of The Boy Craftsman 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 Boy Craftsman

Words and structures a reader meets early in The Boy Craftsman, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Cloth
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Boy Craftsman; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Illustrated
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Boy Craftsman; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Hundreds
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Boy Craftsman; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Photographs
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Boy Craftsman; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.