Complete classic literature • Five-line readings • Clear US narration
VELMORA ACADEMY
Academy of Archival Languages & Memory Studies
Menu Close
The Boy's Playbook of Science
The Boy's Playbook of Science

Chapter VII

Chapter 7 of The Boy's Playbook of Science is here in full — 75 sentences across 15 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Cover illustration for The Boy's Playbook of Science
Context Illustration Reading 1/15 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
ATTRACTION OF COHESION.
In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.
There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.
This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.
M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.
0:00 / 0:00
Speed 0.75x
AI-generated narration by OpenAI · Slow US English
LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

The Boy's Playbook of Science

Chapter VII

Chapter 7 of The Boy's Playbook of Science is here in full — 75 sentences across 15 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/15 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
ATTRACTION OF COHESION.
/əˈtrækʃən ʌv koʊˈhiːʒən/
Line 2
In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.
Line 3
There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.
Line 4
This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.
Line 5
M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

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.

cohesion noun US /koʊˈhiːʒən/

the state of cohering or sticking together

From this reading “ATTRACTION OF COHESION.”

effrontery noun US /ɪˈfrʌntəri/

audacious (even arrogant) behavior that you have no right to

From this reading “This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.”

gravitation noun US /ˌɡrævɪˈteɪʃən/

(physics) the force of attraction between all masses in the universe; especially the attraction of the earth's mass for bodies near its surface

From this reading “In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.”

quotes noun US /kwoʊts/

plural of “quote” — a punctuation mark used to attribute the enclosed text to someone else

From this reading “M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.”

rapping verb US /ˈræpɪŋ/

inflected form of “rap” — strike sharply

From this reading “M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.”

stripping noun US /ˈstrɪpɪŋ/

the removal of covering

From this reading “This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.”

tendons noun US /ˈtendənz/

plural of “tendon” — a cord or band of inelastic tissue connecting a muscle with its bony attachment

From this reading “M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.”

unmasked verb US /ənˈmæskt/

past form of “unmask” — reveal the true nature of

From this reading “This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.”

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.

previous chapters adjective + noun counted as “previous chapter”

In this reading “In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.”

most ludicrous adverb + adjective

In this reading “There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.”

young girl adjective + noun

a girl or young woman who is unmarried

In this reading “This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.”

carried away verb + particle counted as “carry away”

remove from a certain place, environment, or mental or emotional state; transport into a new location or state

In this reading “There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.”

most curious adverb + adjective

In this reading “M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.”

suddenly startled adverb + adjective

In this reading “There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.”

brought back verb + particle counted as “bring back”

bring back to the point of departure

In this reading “There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.”

produced by verb + particle counted as “produce by”

In this reading “M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.”

All words in this reading · 129

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 In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

AcademynounUS /əˈkæd.ə.mi/

A place of study or training in a special field of knowledge and arts.

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

actingnounUS /ˈæktɪŋ/

the performance of a part or role in a drama

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

activeadjectiveUS /ˈæktɪv/

tending to become more severe or wider in scope

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

againadverbUS /əˈɡen/

anew

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

andeterminerUS /æn/

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

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

attendedadjectiveUS /əˈtendɪd/

playing or singing with instrumental or vocal accompaniment

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

attentionnounUS /əˈtenʃən/

the process whereby a person concentrates on some features of the environment to the (relative) exclusion of others

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

ATTRACTIONnounUS /əˈtrækʃən/

the force by which one object attracts another

From this reading ATTRACTION OF COHESION.

awayadverbUS /əˈweɪ/

from a particular thing or place or position (“forth” is obsolete)

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

awenounUS /ɑː/

an overwhelming feeling of wonder or admiration

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

backadverbUS /bæk/

in or to or toward a former location

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

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

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

becauseconjunctionUS /bɪˈkɔːz/

for the reason that

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/

the past participle of “be”

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

broughtverbUS /brɔːt/

inflected form of “bring” — take something or somebody with oneself somewhere

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

carriedverbUS /ˈkærid/

inflected form of “carry” — move while supporting, either in a vehicle or in one's hands or on one's body

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

casenounUS /keɪs/

an occurrence of something

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

celebratedadjectiveUS /ˈseləbreɪtɪd/

widely known and esteemed

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

chaptersnounUS /ˈtʃæptərz/

plural of “chapter” — a subdivision of a written work; usually numbered and titled

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

COHESIONnounUS /koʊˈhiːʒən/

the state of cohering or sticking together

From this reading ATTRACTION OF COHESION.

concertnounUS /ˈkɑːnsərt/

a performance of music by players or singers not involving theatrical staging

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

curiousadjectiveUS /ˈkjʊriəs/

beyond or deviating from the usual or expected

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

denounUS /diː/

a Mid-Atlantic state; one of the original 13 colonies

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

declaresverbUS /dɪˈklerz/

third-person singular of “declare” — state emphatically and authoritatively

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

disclosurenounUS /dɪˈskloʊʒər/

the speech act of making something evident

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

discussedverbUS /dɪˈskʌst/

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

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

ecstasynounUS /ˈekstəsi/

a state of being carried away by overwhelming emotion

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

effronterynounUS /ɪˈfrʌntəri/

audacious (even arrogant) behavior that you have no right to

From this reading This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.

engageverbUS /enˈɡeɪdʒ/

carry out or participate in an activity; be involved in

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

everydeterminerUS /ˈevəri/

all the members of a group, with none left out

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

examinationnounUS /ɪɡˌzæməˈneɪʃən/

the act of examining something closely (as for mistakes)

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

experimentsnounUS /ɪkˈsperəmənts/

plural of “experiment” — the act of conducting a controlled test or investigation

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

exposedadjectiveUS /ɪkˈspoʊzd/

with no protection or shield

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

forcesnounUS /ˈfɔːrsɪz/

plural of “force” — a powerful effect or influence

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

fourteennounUS /ˈfɔːrˈtiːn/

the cardinal number that is the sum of thirteen and one

From this reading This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.

fromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.

gentlemannounUS /ˈdʒentəlmən/

a man of refinement

From this reading This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.

ghostlyadjectiveUS /ˈɡoʊstli/

resembling or characteristic of a phantom

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

girlnounUS /ɡɜːrl/

a young female

From this reading This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.

gravitationnounUS /ˌɡrævɪˈteɪʃən/

(physics) the force of attraction between all masses in the universe; especially the attraction of the earth's mass for bodies near its surface

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

hasauxiliary verbUS /hæz/

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

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

heelnounUS /hiːl/

the bottom of a shoe or boot; the back part of a shoe or boot that touches the ground and provides elevation

From this reading This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.

illustratedverbUS /ˈɪləstreɪtəd/

past form of “illustrate” — clarify by giving an example of

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

InprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

interestingadjectiveUS /ˈɪntrəstɪŋ/

arousing or holding the attention

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

investigationsnounUS /ˌɪnvestəˈɡeɪʃənz/

plural of “investigation” — an inquiry into unfamiliar or questionable activities

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

invisibleadjectiveUS /ˌɪnˈvɪzəbəl/

impossible or nearly impossible to see; imperceptible by the eye

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/

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

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

itpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

Jobert

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

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

kindadjectiveUS /kaɪnd/

having or showing a tender and considerate and helpful nature; used especially of persons and their behavior

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

kneenounUS /niː/

hinge joint in the human leg connecting the tibia and fibula with the femur and protected in front by the patella

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

ladynounUS /ˈleɪdi/

a polite name for any woman

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

Lamballe

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

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

latelyadverbUS /ˈleɪtli/

in the recent past

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

ludicrousadjectiveUS /ˈluːdəkrəs/

broadly or extravagantly humorous; resembling farce

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

MnounUS /em/

the basic unit of length adopted under the Systeme International d'Unites (approximately 1.094 yards)

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

mannernounUS /ˈmænər/

how something is done or how it happens

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

materialadjectiveUS /məˈtɪriəl/

concerned with worldly rather than spiritual interests

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

mediumnounUS /ˈmiːdiəm/

a means or instrumentality for storing or communicating information

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

merelyadverbUS /ˈmɪrli/

and nothing more

From this reading This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.

mindnounUS /maɪnd/

The element of a person that enables awareness and thought.

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

momentnounUS /ˈmoʊmənt/

a particular point in time

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

moreadjectiveUS /mɔːr/

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

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

mostadverbUS /moʊst/

used to form the superlative

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

musclesnounUS /ˈmʌsəlz/

plural of “muscle” — one of the contractile organs of the body

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

musicnounUS /ˈmjuːzɪk/

an artistic form of auditory communication incorporating instrumental or vocal tones in a structured and continuous manner

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

mysterynounUS /ˈmɪstəri/

something that baffles understanding and cannot be explained

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

naturaladjectiveUS /ˈnætʃərəl/

in accordance with nature; relating to or concerning nature

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

naturenounUS /ˈneɪtʃər/

the essential qualities or characteristics by which something is recognized

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

nextadjectiveUS /nekst/

immediately following in time or order

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

nodeterminerUS /noʊ/

not any; not one

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

OFprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading ATTRACTION OF COHESION.

onceadverbUS /wʌns/

on one occasion

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

onepronounUS /wʌn/

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

ourdeterminerUS /ˈaʊər/

belonging to the speaker and others

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

ParisnounUS /ˈperɪs/

the capital and largest city of France; and international center of culture and commerce

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

peculiaradjectiveUS /pəˈkjuːljər/

beyond or deviating from the usual or expected

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

philosophicadjectiveUS /ˌfɪləˈsɑːfɪk/

of or relating to philosophy or philosophers

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

popularadjectiveUS /ˈpɑːpjələr/

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

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

powernounUS /ˈpaʊər/

possession of controlling influence

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

previousadjectiveUS /ˈpriːviəs/

just preceding something else in time or order

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

producedverbUS /prəˈduːst/

past form of “produce” — bring forth or yield

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

producingverbUS /prəˈduːsɪŋ/

-ing form of “produce” — bring forth or yield

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

proofnounUS /pruːf/

any factual evidence that helps to establish the truth of something

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

pursuingadjectiveUS /pərˈsuːɪŋ/

following in order to overtake or capture or as accompaniment to such pursuit

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

quotesnounUS /kwoʊts/

plural of “quote” — a punctuation mark used to attribute the enclosed text to someone else

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

rappingverbUS /ˈræpɪŋ/

inflected form of “rap” — strike sharply

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

realadjectiveUS /riːl/

being or occurring in fact or actuality; having verified existence; not illusory

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

reasonableadjectiveUS /ˈriːzənəbəl/

showing reason or sound judgment

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

rudelyadverbUS /ˈruːdli/

in an impolite manner

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

satisfactionnounUS /ˌsætəˈsfækʃən/

the contentment one feels when one has fulfilled a desire, need, or expectation

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

SciencesnounUS /ˈsaɪənsəz/

plural of “science” — a particular branch of scientific knowledge

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

seemsverbUS /siːmz/

third-person singular of “seem” — give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

so-calledadjectiveUS /ˈsoʊˈkɔːld/

doubtful or suspect

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

spirit-rappers

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

From this reading This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.

spirit-rapping

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

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

startledadjectiveUS /ˈstɑːrtəld/

excited by sudden surprise or alarm and making a quick involuntary movement

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

stepnounUS /step/

any maneuver made as part of progress toward a goal

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

stockingnounUS /ˈstɑːkɪŋ/

close-fitting hosiery to cover the foot and leg; come in matched pairs (usually used in the plural)

From this reading This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.

strippingnounUS /ˈstrɪpɪŋ/

the removal of covering

From this reading This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.

studiesnounUS /ˈstʌdiz/

plural of “study” — a detailed critical inspection

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

suchdeterminerUS /sʌtʃ/

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

suddenlyadverbUS /ˈsʌdənli/

happening unexpectedly

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

tendonsnounUS /ˈtendənz/

plural of “tendon” — a cord or band of inelastic tissue connecting a muscle with its bony attachment

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

thanconjunctionUS /ðæn/

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

ThereadverbUS /ðer/

in or at that place or location

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

thighnounUS /θaɪ/

the part of the leg between the hip and the knee

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

ThisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

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

From this reading This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.

thosedeterminerUS /ðoʊz/

the plural of “that”: the people or things further away, or already known

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

trickeries

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

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

unmaskedverbUS /ənˈmæskt/

past form of “unmask” — reveal the true nature of

From this reading This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.

Velpeau

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

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

viz

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

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

whopronounUS /huː/

which person or people

From this reading M. Velpeau declares that the rapping is produced by the muscles of the heel and knee acting in concert, and quotes the case of a lady once celebrated as a medium, who has the power of producing the most curious and interesting music with the tendons of the thigh.

willmodal verbUS /wɪl/

used to talk about the future, or about willingness

From this reading In previous chapters one kind of attraction--viz., that of gravitation, has been discussed and illustrated in a popular manner, and pursuing the examination of the invisible, active, and real forces of nature, the attraction of cohesion will next engage our attention.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

wondernounUS /ˈwʌndər/

the feeling aroused by something strange and surprising

From this reading There is a peculiar satisfaction in pursuing such investigations, because every step is attended by a reasonable proof; there is no ghostly mystery in philosophic studies; the mind is not suddenly startled at one moment with that which seems more than natural; it is not carried away in an ecstasy of wonder and awe, as in the so-called _spirit-rapping_ experiments, to be again rudely brought back to the material by the disclosure of trickeries of the most ludicrous kind, such as those lately exposed by M. Jobert de Lamballe, at the Academy of Sciences at Paris.

youngadjectiveUS /jʌŋ/

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

From this reading This gentleman has unmasked the effrontery of the spirit-rappers by merely stripping the stocking from the heel of a young girl of fourteen.

Chapter 7 of The Boy's Playbook of Science by John Henry Pepper holds 75 sentences, grouped into 15 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 7 of The Boy's Playbook of Science contain?

Chapter 7 holds 75 sentences of The Boy's Playbook of Science, unabridged, divided into 15 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 7 of The Boy's Playbook of Science by John Henry Pepper exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 75 sentences, grouped into 15 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 7 of The Boy's Playbook of Science?

Work through the 15 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 15 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 7 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 7 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's Playbook of Science

Common questions about reading The Boy's Playbook of Science by John Henry Pepper on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of The Boy's Playbook of Science?

Yes. All 4206 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #41839 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of The Boy's Playbook of Science is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #41839, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does The Boy's Playbook of Science take to read?

About 350 minutes of reading across 842 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read The Boy's Playbook of Science section by section

How to work through The Boy's Playbook of Science section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 31 chapters of The Boy's Playbook of Science 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's Playbook of Science

Words and structures a reader meets early in The Boy's Playbook of Science, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Chemical
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Boy's Playbook of Science; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Philosophical
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Boy's Playbook of Science; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Apparatus
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Boy's Playbook of Science; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Required
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Boy's Playbook of Science; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.