Chapter I

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

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

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

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

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

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

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

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

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

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

consider or hold as true

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

how long something has existed

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

(quantifier) used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

plural of “american” — a native or inhabitant of the United States

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

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

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

the month following March and preceding May

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

a permanent organization of the military land forces of a nation or state

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

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

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

for the reason that

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

the past participle of “be”

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

plural of “boy” — a youthful male person

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

the people of Great Britain

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

carefully thought out in advance

From this reading These boys were witnessing and taking part in events decidedly startling--events well calculated to impress themselves upon the minds even of children.

an occurrence of something

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

plural of “child” — a young person of either sex

From this reading These boys were witnessing and taking part in events decidedly startling--events well calculated to impress themselves upon the minds even of children.

your overall circumstances or condition in life (including everything that happens to you)

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

plural of “citizen” — a native or naturalized member of a state or other political community

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

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

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

of or pertaining to or typical of Europe

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

the use of speech for informal exchange of views or ideas or information etc.

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

a fat-soluble vitamin that prevents rickets

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

time for Earth to make a complete rotation on its axis

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

without question and beyond doubt

From this reading These boys were witnessing and taking part in events decidedly startling--events well calculated to impress themselves upon the minds even of children.

having or expressing desire for something

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

first in order of birth

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

having ones attention or mind or energy engaged

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

an Indo-European language belonging to the West Germanic branch; the official language of Britain and the United States and most of the commonwealth countries

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

divisible by two

From this reading These boys were witnessing and taking part in events decidedly startling--events well calculated to impress themselves upon the minds even of children.

plural of “event” — something that happens at a given place and time

From this reading These boys were witnessing and taking part in events decidedly startling--events well calculated to impress themselves upon the minds even of children.

at any time

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

all the members of a group, with none left out

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

relatively long in duration; tediously protracted

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

a piece of information about circumstances that exist or events that have occurred

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

well known or easily recognized

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

plural of “force” — a powerful effect or influence

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

create by hammering

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

the phonological or orthographic sound or appearance of a word that can be used to describe or identify something

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

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

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

applying to all or most members of a category or group

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

willing to give and share unstintingly

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

a tool used by an engraver

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

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

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

only a very short time before

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

past form of “help” — give help or assistance; be of service

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

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

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

kindness in welcoming guests or strangers

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

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

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

United States editor (1920-1993)

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

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

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

have an emotional or cognitive impact upon

From this reading These boys were witnessing and taking part in events decidedly startling--events well calculated to impress themselves upon the minds even of children.

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

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

plural of “inhabitant” — a person who inhabits a particular place

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

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

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

term of address for a disrespectful and annoying male

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

perceive with attention; direct one's gaze towards

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

plural of “mind” — that which is responsible for one's thoughts, feelings, and conscious brain functions; the seat of the faculty of reason

From this reading These boys were witnessing and taking part in events decidedly startling--events well calculated to impress themselves upon the minds even of children.

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

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

the time period between dawn and noon

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

(superlative of “near” or “close”) within the shortest distance

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

absolutely essential

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

and not; used after a negative to add a second negative

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

held or filled or in use

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

plural of “officer” — any person in the armed services who holds a position of authority or command

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

a judge of a probate court

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

something determined in relation to something that includes it

From this reading These boys were witnessing and taking part in events decidedly startling--events well calculated to impress themselves upon the minds even of children.

the time that has elapsed

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

the largest city in Pennsylvania; located in the southeastern part of the state on the Delaware river; site of Independence Hall where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed; site of the University of Pennsylvania

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

expose to ridicule or public scorn

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

experiencing or manifesting pleasure

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

a fundamental feeling that is hard to define but that people desire to experience

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

the act of having and controlling property

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

completely prepared or in condition for immediate action or use or progress

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

not used up

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

unrestrained merrymaking

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

a principle or condition that customarily governs behavior

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

express in words

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

plural of “scheme” — an elaborate and systematic plan of action

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

perceive by sight or have the power to perceive by sight

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

past form of “seem” — give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

the month following August and preceding October

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

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

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

from a time in the past until now

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

being one more than fifteen

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

use up a period of time in a specific way

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

plural of “spy” — (military) a secret agent hired by a state to obtain information about its enemies or by a business to obtain industrial secrets from competitors

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

relating to or interested in sports

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

having a supporting base

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

so remarkably different or sudden as to cause momentary shock or alarm

From this reading These boys were witnessing and taking part in events decidedly startling--events well calculated to impress themselves upon the minds even of children.

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

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

meant or adapted for an occasion or use

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

the act of someone who picks up or takes something

From this reading These boys were witnessing and taking part in events decidedly startling--events well calculated to impress themselves upon the minds even of children.

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

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

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

used when the people doing the action are also its object

From this reading These boys were witnessing and taking part in events decidedly startling--events well calculated to impress themselves upon the minds even of children.

the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned

From this reading These boys were witnessing and taking part in events decidedly startling--events well calculated to impress themselves upon the minds even of children.

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

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

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

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

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

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

an instance or single occasion for some event

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

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

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

inflected form of “take” — carry out

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

an American who favored the British side during the American Revolution

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

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

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

below or beneath something; less than

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

a formal word for “on”

From this reading These boys were witnessing and taking part in events decidedly startling--events well calculated to impress themselves upon the minds even of children.

under normal conditions

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

a long depression in the surface of the land that usually contains a river

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

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

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

having an abundant supply of money or possessions of value

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

(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 These boys were witnessing and taking part in events decidedly startling--events well calculated to impress themselves upon the minds even of children.

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

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

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

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

the form of “who” used as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

the coldest season of the year; in the northern hemisphere it extends from the winter solstice to the vernal equinox

From this reading The past winter had been one of gayety for the wealthy Tory inhabitants of the city, since the English officers were pleased to spend their time in every form of revelry, and ever ready to accept the more than generous hospitality which was extended by such of the citizens as were desirous of remaining under British rule.

in the company of; together with

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

-ing form of “witness” — be a witness to

From this reading These boys were witnessing and taking part in events decidedly startling--events well calculated to impress themselves upon the minds even of children.

inflected form of “wear” — be dressed in

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.

a period of time containing 365 (or 366) days

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

a late time of life

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

but in spite of that

From this reading It is hardly necessary, because such fact is familiar to all Americans, to say that on the 26th of September, 1777, General Howe took possession of the city of Philadelphia, and it was yet occupied by the British forces on this 2d day of April, 1778.

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

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

superlative of “young” — (used of living things especially persons) in an early period of life or development or growth

From this reading See https:// The Story of how the Young Spies helped the Continental Army at Valley Forge On the morning of April 2, 1778, three boys, the eldest of whom was not more than sixteen years of age and the youngest hardly a year his junior, were standing on that side of the town-house nearest the pillory, in the city of Philadelphia.

a young person (especially a young man or boy)

From this reading They were not engaged in sportive conversation, nor occupied with schemes for pleasure, as is usually the case with boys of such age; but wore a graver look than seemed suitable to youth under ordinary circumstances.