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The breath of slander
The breath of slander

Chapter XIX

Chapter 19 of The breath of slander is here in full — 168 sentences across 34 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

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Context Illustration Reading 1/33 · 5 lines
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A SUCCESSFUL SPECULATION.
It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.
Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.
He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.
Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

The breath of slander

Chapter XIX

Chapter 19 of The breath of slander is here in full — 168 sentences across 34 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

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

Line 1
A SUCCESSFUL SPECULATION.
/ə səkˈsesfəl ˌspekjəˈleɪʃən/
Line 2
It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.
Line 3
Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.
/oʊld pæt wɑːz ˌɪnˈklaɪnd tuː ˈɑːbdʒekt tuː sʌtʃ ə ˈheɪsti ˈwedɪŋ ˈkleɪmɪŋ ˈsensəbli ɪˈnʌf ðæt ðə jʌŋ ˈpiːpəl ˈniːdəd taɪm tuː bɪˈkʌm ˈθɜːroʊli əˈkweɪntɪd wɪð iːtʃ ˈʌðər bɪˈfɔːr ðeɪ əˈsuːmd ðə riˌspɑːnsəˈbɪlətiz ʌv ˈwedɪd laɪf/
Line 4
He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.
/hiː prəˈpoʊzd ə jɪrz dɪˈleɪ ənd ˈkwoʊtɪd ˈmeri ɪn heɪst ənd rɪˈpent æt ˈleʒər ənd ˈveriəs ˈʌðər waɪz oʊld sɔːz tuː səˈpɔːrt hɪz pəˈzɪʃən bʌt ðɪs dɪd nɑːt suːt ˈiːðər ʌv ðə mɔːr ˈnɪrli ˈɪntrəstɪd ˈpɑːrtiz/
Line 5
Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.
/ˈfæni hæd ˈɔːlweɪz lʊkt əˈpɑːn ˈmerɪdʒ æz ðə ˈoʊnli ˈpɑːsəbəl rɪˈliːf frʌm hɜːr pəˈzɪʃən ɪn laɪf ənd sɔː bɪˈfɔːr hɜːr ɪn ðə ˈkɑːntəmpleɪtɪd trɪp tuː ˈjʊrəp ðə ˈriːləˈzeɪʃən ʌv hɜːr ˈfɑːndəst driːmz ənd wɑːz ɪn ə ˈfiːvər ʌv ˌekspekˈteɪʃən ðæt wɑːz nɑːt ˈlaɪkli tuː səbˈsaɪd ənˈtɪl ʃiː faʊnd hərˈself en ruːt/

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.

claiming verb US /ˈkleɪmɪŋ/

-ing form of “claim” — assert or affirm strongly; state to be true or existing

From this reading “Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.”

fondest adjective US /ˈfɑːndəst/

superlative of “fond” — having or displaying warmth or affection

From this reading “Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.”

overwhelm verb US /ˌoʊvərˈwelm/

overcome, as with emotions or perceptual stimuli

From this reading “It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.”

procrastination noun US /prəˌkræstəˈneɪʃən/

the act of procrastinating; putting off or delaying or defering an action to a later time

From this reading “It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.”

sawdust noun US /ˈsɔːdʌst/

fine particles of wood made by sawing wood

From this reading “It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.”

saws noun US /sɔːz/

plural of “saw” — a condensed but memorable saying embodying some important fact of experience that is taken as true by many people

From this reading “He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.”

sensibly adverb US /ˈsensəbli/

with good sense or in a reasonable or intelligent manner

From this reading “Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.”

subside verb US /səbˈsaɪd/

wear off or die down

From this reading “Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.”

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.

en route noun + noun

on a route to some place

In this reading “Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.”

thoroughly acquainted adverb + adjective

In this reading “Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.”

wedded life adjective + noun

In this reading “Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.”

future husband adjective + noun

In this reading “It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.”

young people adjective + noun

In this reading “Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.”

become thoroughly verb + particle

In this reading “Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.”

at leisure preposition + noun

in an unhurried way or at one's convenience

In this reading “He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.”

coming event noun + noun

In this reading “It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.”

All words in this reading · 121

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 A SUCCESSFUL SPECULATION.

acquaintedadjectiveUS /əˈkweɪntɪd/

having fair knowledge of

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

alwaysadverbUS /ˈɔːlweɪz/

at all times; all the time and on every occasion

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

andeterminerUS /æn/

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

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

assumedadjectiveUS /əˈsuːmd/

adopted in order to deceive

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

becomeverbUS /bɪˈkʌm/

enter or assume a certain state or condition

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

beforeprepositionUS /bɪˈfɔːr/

earlier than; in front of

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

beganverbUS /bɪˈɡæn/

inflected form of “begin” — take the first step or steps in carrying out an action

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

believedverbUS /bɪˈliːvd/

past form of “believe” — accept as true; take to be true

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

citynounUS /ˈsɪti/

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

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

claimingverbUS /ˈkleɪmɪŋ/

-ing form of “claim” — assert or affirm strongly; state to be true or existing

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

comingnounUS /ˈkʌmɪŋ/

the act of drawing spatially closer to something

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

contemplatedverbUS /ˈkɑːntəmpleɪtɪd/

past form of “contemplate” — look at thoughtfully; observe deep in thought

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

daynounUS /deɪ/

time for Earth to make a complete rotation on its axis

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

delayverbUS /dɪˈleɪ/

cause to be slowed down or delayed

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

destinedadjectiveUS /ˈdestɪnd/

headed or intending to head in a certain direction; often used as a combining form as in “college-bound students”

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

didauxiliary verbUS /dɪd/

the past form of “do”, used in questions and negatives

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

dreamsnounUS /driːmz/

plural of “dream” — a series of mental images and emotions occurring during sleep

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

eachdeterminerUS /iːtʃ/

every one of two or more people or things, taken separately

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

earlyadjectiveUS /ˈɜːrli/

at or near the beginning of a period of time or course of events or before the usual or expected time

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

eitherdeterminerUS /ˈiːðər/

one or the other of two

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

ennounUS /en/

half the width of an em

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

enoughnounUS /ɪˈnʌf/

an adequate quantity; a quantity that is large enough to achieve a purpose

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

EuropenounUS /ˈjʊrəp/

the 2nd smallest continent (actually a vast peninsula of Eurasia); the British use “Europe” to refer to all of the continent except the British Isles

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

eventnounUS /ɪˈvent/

something that happens at a given place and time

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

evidentadjectiveUS /ˈevədənt/

clearly revealed to the mind or the senses or judgment

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

expectationnounUS /ˌekspekˈteɪʃən/

belief about (or mental picture of) the future

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

FannynounUS /ˈfæni/

the fleshy part of the human body that you sit on

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

fevernounUS /ˈfiːvər/

a rise in the temperature of the body; frequently a symptom of infection

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

fondestadjectiveUS /ˈfɑːndəst/

superlative of “fond” — having or displaying warmth or affection

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

foundverbUS /faʊnd/

set up or found

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

fromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

futureadjectiveUS /ˈfjuːtʃər/

yet to be or coming

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/

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

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

hastenounUS /heɪst/

overly eager speed (and possible carelessness)

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

hastyadjectiveUS /ˈheɪsti/

excessively quick

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

HepronounUS /hiː/

a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

herdeterminerUS /hɜːr/

belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

herselfpronounUS /hərˈself/

used when the woman or girl doing the action is also its object

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

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

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

husbandnounUS /ˈhʌzbənd/

a married man; a woman's partner in marriage

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

inclinedadjectiveUS /ˌɪnˈklaɪnd/

(often followed by “to”) having a preference, disposition, or tendency

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

interestedadjectiveUS /ˈɪntrəstɪd/

having or showing interest; especially curiosity or fascination or concern

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

ItpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

itsdeterminerUS /ɪts/

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

leastadjectiveUS /liːst/

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

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

leisurenounUS /ˈleʒər/

time available for ease and relaxation

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

lifenounUS /laɪf/

a characteristic state or mode of living

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

likelyadjectiveUS /ˈlaɪkli/

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

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

lookedverbUS /lʊkt/

past form of “look” — perceive with attention; direct one's gaze towards

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

magnificencenoun

splendid or imposing in size or appearance

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

marriagenounUS /ˈmerɪdʒ/

the state of being a married couple voluntarily joined for life (or until divorce)

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

marryverbUS /ˈmeri/

take in marriage

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

moreadjectiveUS /mɔːr/

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

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

nativesnounUS /ˈneɪtɪvz/

plural of “native” — an indigenous person who was born in a particular place

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

nearlyadverbUS /ˈnɪrli/

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

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

neededadjectiveUS /ˈniːdəd/

necessary for relief or supply

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

neitherdeterminerUS /ˈniːðər/

not one and not the other of two

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

norconjunctionUS /nɔːr/

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

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

objectnounUS /ˈɑːbdʒekt/

a tangible and visible entity; an entity that can cast a shadow

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

OldadjectiveUS /oʊld/

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

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

onprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

onceadverbUS /wʌns/

on one occasion

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

onlyadverbUS /ˈoʊnli/

and nothing more

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

otheradjectiveUS /ˈʌðər/

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

overwhelmverbUS /ˌoʊvərˈwelm/

overcome, as with emotions or perceptual stimuli

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

partiesnounUS /ˈpɑːrtiz/

plural of “party” — an organization to gain political power

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

PatverbUS /pæt/

pat or squeeze fondly or playfully, especially under the chin

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

peoplenounUS /ˈpiːpəl/

(plural) any group of human beings (men or women or children) collectively

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

positionnounUS /pəˈzɪʃən/

the particular portion of space occupied by something

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

possibleadjectiveUS /ˈpɑːsəbəl/

capable of happening or existing

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

preparationsnounUS /ˌprepərˈeɪʃənz/

plural of “preparation” — the activity of putting or setting in order in advance of some act or purpose

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

procrastinationnounUS /prəˌkræstəˈneɪʃən/

the act of procrastinating; putting off or delaying or defering an action to a later time

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

proposedverbUS /prəˈpoʊzd/

past form of “propose” — make a proposal, declare a plan for something

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

quotedverbUS /ˈkwoʊtɪd/

past form of “quote” — repeat a passage from

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

realizationnounUS /ˈriːləˈzeɪʃən/

coming to understand something clearly and distinctly

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

reliefnounUS /rɪˈliːf/

the feeling that comes when something burdensome is removed or reduced

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

repentverbUS /rɪˈpent/

turn away from sin or do penitence

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

responsibilitiesnounUS /riˌspɑːnsəˈbɪlətiz/

plural of “responsibility” — the social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

routenounUS /ruːt/

an established line of travel or access

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

sandnounUS /sænd/

a loose material consisting of grains of rock or coral

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

sawverbUS /sɔː/

cut with a saw

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

sawdustnounUS /ˈsɔːdʌst/

fine particles of wood made by sawing wood

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

sawsnounUS /sɔːz/

plural of “saw” — a condensed but memorable saying embodying some important fact of experience that is taken as true by many people

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

scalenounUS /skeɪl/

an ordered reference standard

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

sensiblyadverbUS /ˈsensəbli/

with good sense or in a reasonable or intelligent manner

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

setverbUS /set/

put into a certain place or abstract location

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

shepronounUS /ʃiː/

a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

SPECULATIONnounUS /ˌspekjəˈleɪʃən/

a message expressing an opinion based on incomplete evidence

From this reading A SUCCESSFUL SPECULATION.

subsideverbUS /səbˈsaɪd/

wear off or die down

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

SUCCESSFULadjectiveUS /səkˈsesfəl/

having succeeded or being marked by a favorable outcome

From this reading A SUCCESSFUL SPECULATION.

suchdeterminerUS /sʌtʃ/

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

suitverbUS /suːt/

be agreeable or acceptable to

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

supportnounUS /səˈpɔːrt/

the activity of providing for or maintaining by supplying with money or necessities

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

theypronounUS /ðeɪ/

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

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

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

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

thoroughlyadverbUS /ˈθɜːroʊli/

in an exhaustive manner

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

timenounUS /taɪm/

an instance or single occasion for some event

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

tripnounUS /trɪp/

a journey for some purpose (usually including the return)

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

untilprepositionUS /ənˈtɪl/

up to a particular time

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

uponprepositionUS /əˈpɑːn/

a formal word for “on”

From this reading Fanny had always looked upon marriage as the only possible relief from her position in life, and saw before her, in the contemplated trip to Europe, the realization of her fondest dreams, and was in a fever of expectation that was not likely to subside until she found herself en route.

variousadjectiveUS /ˈveriəs/

of many different kinds purposefully arranged but lacking any uniformity

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

weddedadjectiveUS /ˈwedɪd/

having been taken in marriage

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

weddingnounUS /ˈwedɪŋ/

the social event at which the ceremony of marriage is performed

From this reading It was evident that neither Fanny nor her future husband believed in procrastination; for not only did they set an early day for the wedding, but began at once--at least Fanny did--preparations for the coming event on a scale that was destined to overwhelm the natives of the city of sand and sawdust by its magnificence.

wiseadjectiveUS /waɪz/

having or prompted by wisdom or discernment

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

year'snounUS /jɪrz/

possessive form of “year” — a period of time containing 365 (or 366) days

From this reading He proposed a year’s delay, and quoted “marry in haste and repent at leisure,” and various other wise old saws, to support his position; but this did not suit either of the more nearly interested parties.

youngadjectiveUS /jʌŋ/

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

From this reading Old Pat was inclined to object to such a hasty wedding, claiming, sensibly enough, that the young people needed time to become thoroughly acquainted with each other before they assumed the responsibilities of wedded life.

Chapter 19 of The breath of slander by Ida Reade Allen holds 168 sentences, grouped into 34 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 19 of The breath of slander contain?

Chapter 19 holds 168 sentences of The breath of slander, unabridged, divided into 34 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 19 of The breath of slander by Ida Reade Allen exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 168 sentences, grouped into 34 sections of at most 5 sentences so that a reader can take the chapter in steady, finishable pieces. The chapter also stores a coverage record mapping every one of its sentences to a part of the work, which is how the edition demonstrates that no line was dropped.

How do I study chapter 19 of The breath of slander?

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

Each of the 34 sections in this chapter is short enough to read once, hear once, and then re-read with the vocabulary in view. Tapping a word plays it alone and opens its dictionary entry with IPA, part of speech and meaning, so the reader is never forced to guess a pronunciation from spelling. Working section by section keeps a long chapter from becoming an undifferentiated wall of text, which is the usual reason a reader abandons a work of this period.

Can chapter 19 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 19 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 breath of slander

Common questions about reading The breath of slander by Ida Reade Allen on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of The breath of slander?

Yes. All 4688 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #76289 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of The breath of slander is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #76289, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does The breath of slander take to read?

About 390 minutes of reading across 938 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read The breath of slander section by section

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

  1. Open a chapter

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  2. Read one section

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  3. Listen and tap

    Play the section aloud, then tap any unfamiliar word for its entry.

Vocabulary met early in The breath of slander

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

Authors
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The breath of slander; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Profusion
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The breath of slander; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Books
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The breath of slander; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Impossibility
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The breath of slander; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.