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The Evil Shepherd
The Evil Shepherd

Chapter IV · Chapter 4

Chapter 4 of The Evil Shepherd is here in full — 70 sentences across 14 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Cover illustration for The Evil Shepherd
Context Illustration Reading 1/14 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.
He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.
The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.
Andrew Wilmore, who had observed his action, spoke of it as they settled down to lunch.
So you are going to keep your engagement tonight, Francis?” he observed.
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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 Evil Shepherd

Chapter IV · Chapter 4

Chapter 4 of The Evil Shepherd is here in full — 70 sentences across 14 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/14 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.
Line 2
He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.
/hiː ˈkærid ðə fɜːrst ˈmesədʒ ərˈaʊnd ˈrɪtʃmənd ɡɑːlf kɔːrs wɪð hɪm ˌɪnˈtendɪŋ tuː dɪˈspætʃ hɪz ˈkædi wɪð ɪt ˌɪˈmiːdiːətli ɑːn ðə kənˈkluːʒən ʌv ðə raʊnd/
Line 3
The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.
Line 4
Andrew Wilmore, who had observed his action, spoke of it as they settled down to lunch.
Line 5
So you are going to keep your engagement tonight, Francis?” he observed.

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.

aperitif noun US /əˌperəˈtiːf/

alcoholic beverage taken before a meal as an appetizer

From this reading “The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.”

caddy noun US /ˈkædi/

a can for storing tea

From this reading “He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.”

concentration noun US /ˌkɑːnsənˈtreɪʃən/

the strength of a solution; number of molecules of a substance in a given volume

From this reading “The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.”

dispel verb US /dɪˈspel/

force to go away; used both with concrete and metaphoric meanings

From this reading “The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.”

golf noun US /ɡɑːlf/

a game played on a large open course with 9 or 18 holes; the object is use as few strokes as possible in playing all the holes

From this reading “He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.”

Indecision noun US /ˌɪndɪˈsɪʒən/

doubt concerning two or more possible alternatives or courses of action

From this reading “Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.”

regretting verb US /rɪˈɡretɪŋ/

inflected form of “regret” — feel remorse for; feel sorry for; be contrite about

From this reading “Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.”

worded verb US /ˈwɜːrdɪd/

past form of “word” — put into words or an expression

From this reading “Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.”

All words in this reading · 122

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.

10

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

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

adeterminerUS /ə/

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

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

ableadjectiveUS /ˈeɪbəl/

(usually followed by “to”) having the necessary means or skill or know-how or authority to do something

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

actionnounUS /ˈækʃən/

something done (usually as opposed to something said)

From this reading Andrew Wilmore, who had observed his action, spoke of it as they settled down to lunch.

againadverbUS /əˈɡen/

anew

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

airnounUS /er/

a mixture of gases (especially oxygen) required for breathing; the stuff that the wind consists of

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

andeterminerUS /æn/

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

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

AndrewnounUS /ˈændruː/

(New Testament) disciple of Jesus; brother of Peter; patron saint of Scotland

From this reading Andrew Wilmore, who had observed his action, spoke of it as they settled down to lunch.

anticipâtéd

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

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

aperitifnounUS /əˌperəˈtiːf/

alcoholic beverage taken before a meal as an appetizer

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

apprehensionsnounUS /ˌæprɪˈhenʃənz/

plural of “apprehension” — fearful expectation or anticipation

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/

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

From this reading “So you are going to keep your engagement tonight, Francis?” he observed.

aroundprepositionUS /ərˈaʊnd/

surrounding, or on every side of, something

From this reading He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading Andrew Wilmore, who had observed his action, spoke of it as they settled down to lunch.

bnounUS /biː/

aerobic rod-shaped spore-producing bacterium; often occurring in chainlike formations; found primarily in soil

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

barnounUS /bɑːr/

a room or establishment where alcoholic drinks are served over a counter

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/

the past participle of “be”

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

caddynounUS /ˈkædi/

a can for storing tea

From this reading He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.

carefullyadverbUS /ˈkerfəli/

taking care or paying attention

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

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 He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.

certainadjectiveUS /ˈsɜːrtən/

definite but not specified or identified

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

clubnounUS /klʌb/

a team of professional baseball players who play and travel together

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

concentrationnounUS /ˌkɑːnsənˈtreɪʃən/

the strength of a solution; number of molecules of a substance in a given volume

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

conclusionnounUS /kənˈkluːʒən/

a position or opinion or judgment reached after consideration

From this reading He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.

coursenounUS /kɔːrs/

education imparted in a series of lessons or meetings

From this reading He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.

daynounUS /deɪ/

time for Earth to make a complete rotation on its axis

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

deriveverbUS /dərˈaɪv/

reason by deduction; establish by deduction

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

destroyedadjectiveUS /dɪˈstrɔɪd/

spoiled or ruined or demolished

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

dineverbUS /daɪn/

have supper; eat dinner

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

dispatchverbUS /dɪˈspætʃ/

send away towards a designated goal

From this reading He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.

dispelverbUS /dɪˈspel/

force to go away; used both with concrete and metaphoric meanings

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

downadjectiveUS /daʊn/

being or moving lower in position or less in some value

From this reading Andrew Wilmore, who had observed his action, spoke of it as they settled down to lunch.

duringprepositionUS /ˈdʊrɪŋ/

all through a period, or at some point within it

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

eachdeterminerUS /iːtʃ/

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

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

engagementnounUS /enˈɡeɪdʒmənt/

a hostile meeting of opposing military forces in the course of a war

From this reading “So you are going to keep your engagement tonight, Francis?” he observed.

evenadjectiveUS /ˈiːvɪn/

divisible by two

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

faultsnounUS /fɔːlts/

plural of “fault” — a wrong action attributable to bad judgment or ignorance or inattention

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

firstadjectiveUS /fɜːrst/

preceding all others in time or space or degree

From this reading He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.

followingadjectiveUS /ˈfɑːloʊɪŋ/

about to be mentioned or specified

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

foundverbUS /faʊnd/

set up or found

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

fournounUS /fɔːr/

the cardinal number that is the sum of three and one

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

Francis

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

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

freshadjectiveUS /freʃ/

recently made, produced, or harvested

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

fromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

gamenounUS /ɡeɪm/

a contest with rules to determine a winner

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

goingnounUS /ˈɡoʊɪŋ/

the act of departing

From this reading “So you are going to keep your engagement tonight, Francis?” he observed.

golfnounUS /ɡɑːlf/

a game played on a large open course with 9 or 18 holes; the object is use as few strokes as possible in playing all the holes

From this reading He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.

hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/

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

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

half-fearful

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

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

hepronounUS /hiː/

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

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

herdeterminerUS /hɜːr/

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

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

Hilditch

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

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

HillnounUS /hɪl/

a local and well-defined elevation of the land

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

himpronounUS /hɪm/

the male already mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.

himselfpronounUS /hɪmˈself/

used when the man or boy doing the action is also its object

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

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

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

howeveradverbUS /ˌhaʊˈevər/

used to add a contrasting statement

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

immediatelyadverbUS /ˌɪˈmiːdiːətli/

without delay or hesitation; with no time intervening

From this reading He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

inabilitynounUS /ˌɪnəˈbɪlɪti/

lack of ability (especially mental ability) to do something

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

IndecisionnounUS /ˌɪndɪˈsɪʒən/

doubt concerning two or more possible alternatives or courses of action

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

intendingverbUS /ˌɪnˈtendɪŋ/

-ing form of “intend” — have in mind as a purpose

From this reading He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.

intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/

moving to the inside of something

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

itpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

keepverbUS /kiːp/

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

From this reading “So you are going to keep your engagement tonight, Francis?” he observed.

Ledsam's

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

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

lunchverbUS /lʌntʃ/

take the midday meal

From this reading Andrew Wilmore, who had observed his action, spoke of it as they settled down to lunch.

meetingnounUS /ˈmiːtɪŋ/

a formally arranged gathering

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

messagenounUS /ˈmesədʒ/

a communication (usually brief) that is written or spoken or signaled

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

momentnounUS /ˈmoʊmənt/

a particular point in time

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

MrsnounUS /ˈmɪsɪz/

a form of address for a married woman

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

nervousadjectiveUS /ˈnɜːrvəs/

easily agitated

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

neveradverbUS /ˈnevər/

not ever; at no time in the past or future

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

nightnounUS /naɪt/

the time after sunset and before sunrise while it is dark outside

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

observedadjectiveUS /əbˈzɜːrvd/

discovered or determined by scientific observation

From this reading Andrew Wilmore, who had observed his action, spoke of it as they settled down to lunch.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

OlivernounUS /ˈɑːləvər/

United States jazz musician who influenced the style of Louis Armstrong (1885-1938)

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

onprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.

onepronounUS /wʌn/

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

outadjectiveUS /aʊt/

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

overprepositionUS /ˈoʊvər/

above and across; more than

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

piecesnounUS /ˈpiːsəz/

plural of “piece” — a separate part of a whole

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

pleasurenounUS /ˈpleʒər/

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

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

regrettingverbUS /rɪˈɡretɪŋ/

inflected form of “regret” — feel remorse for; feel sorry for; be contrite about

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

requiredadjectiveUS /riˈkwaɪərd/

necessary for relief or supply

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

RichmondnounUS /ˈrɪtʃmənd/

capital of the state of Virginia located in the east central part of the state; was capital of the Confederacy during the American Civil War

From this reading He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.

roundnounUS /raʊnd/

a charge of ammunition for a single shot

From this reading He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.

seemedverbUS /siːmd/

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

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

settledadjectiveUS /ˈsetəld/

established or decided beyond dispute or doubt

From this reading Andrew Wilmore, who had observed his action, spoke of it as they settled down to lunch.

smalladjectiveUS /smɔːl/

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

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

SoconjunctionUS /soʊ/

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading “So you are going to keep your engagement tonight, Francis?” he observed.

spokenounUS /spoʊk/

support consisting of a radial member of a wheel joining the hub to the rim

From this reading Andrew Wilmore, who had observed his action, spoke of it as they settled down to lunch.

storynounUS /ˈstɔːri/

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

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

StreetnounUS /striːt/

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

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

telegramnounUS /ˈteləɡræm/

a message transmitted by telegraph

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

telegraphicadjective

of or relating to or transmitted by telegraph

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

terribleadjectiveUS /ˈterəbəl/

causing fear or dread or terror

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

theypronounUS /ðeɪ/

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

From this reading Andrew Wilmore, who had observed his action, spoke of it as they settled down to lunch.

thoughtnounUS /θɔːt/

the content of cognition; the main thing you are thinking about

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

thoughtsnounUS /θɔːts/

plural of “thought” — the content of cognition; the main thing you are thinking about

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

timenounUS /taɪm/

an instance or single occasion for some event

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

timesnounUS /taɪmz/

a more or less definite period of time now or previously present

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

togetheradverbUS /təˈɡeðər/

in contact with each other or in proximity

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

tonightadverbUS /təˈnaɪt/

On the present night.

From this reading “So you are going to keep your engagement tonight, Francis?” he observed.

torenounUS /tɔːr/

commonly the lowest molding at the base of a column

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

visitverbUS /ˈvɪzɪt/

go to see a place, as for entertainment

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

whopronounUS /huː/

which person or people

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

Wilmore

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

From this reading Andrew Wilmore, who had observed his action, spoke of it as they settled down to lunch.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading He carried the first message around Richmond golf course with him, intending to dispatch his caddy with it immediately on the conclusion of the round.

womannounUS /ˈwʊmən/

an adult female person (as opposed to a man)

From this reading The fresh air, however, and the concentration required by the game, seemed to dispel the nervous apprehensions with which he had anticipâtéd his visit, and over an aperitif in the club bar he tore the telegram into small pieces and found himself even able to derive a certain half-fearful pleasure from the thought of meeting again the woman who, together with her terrible story, had never for one moment been out of his thoughts.

wordedverbUS /ˈwɜːrdɪd/

past form of “word” — put into words or an expression

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

wroteverbUS /roʊt/

inflected form of “write” — produce a literary work

From this reading Indecision had never been one of Francis Ledsam's faults, but four times during the following day he wrote out a carefully worded telegraphic message to Mrs. Oliver Hilditch, 10 b, Hill Street, regretting his inability to dine that night, and each time he destroyed it.

youpronounUS /juː/

the person or people being spoken to

From this reading “So you are going to keep your engagement tonight, Francis?” he observed.

yourdeterminerUS /jɔːr/

belonging to the person or people being spoken to

From this reading “So you are going to keep your engagement tonight, Francis?” he observed.

Chapter 4 of The Evil Shepherd by E. Phillips (Edward Phillips) Oppenheim holds 70 sentences, grouped into 14 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 4 of The Evil Shepherd contain?

Chapter 4 holds 70 sentences of The Evil Shepherd, unabridged, divided into 14 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 4 of The Evil Shepherd by E. Phillips (Edward Phillips) Oppenheim exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 70 sentences, grouped into 14 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 4 of The Evil Shepherd?

Work through the 14 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 14 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 4 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 4 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 Evil Shepherd

Common questions about reading The Evil Shepherd by E. Phillips (Edward Phillips) Oppenheim on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of The Evil Shepherd?

Yes. All 5560 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #5743 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of The Evil Shepherd is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #5743, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does The Evil Shepherd take to read?

About 463 minutes of reading across 1112 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read The Evil Shepherd section by section

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

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 35 chapters of The Evil Shepherd 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 Evil Shepherd

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

Francis
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Evil Shepherd; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Ledsam
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Evil Shepherd; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Arrived
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Evil Shepherd; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Sheridan
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Evil Shepherd; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.