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The Fate of a Crown
The Fate of a Crown

Chapter II · Valcour

Chapter II of The Fate of a Crown, “Valcour,” is here in full — 119 sentences across 24 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

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Context Illustration Reading 1/23 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.
I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.
The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.
He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.
I am told the Harcliffes are always remarkable for their reserve, and certainly the head of our house was an adept at repressing his emotions.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
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/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
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A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

The Fate of a Crown

Chapter II · Valcour

Chapter II of The Fate of a Crown, “Valcour,” is here in full — 119 sentences across 24 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/23 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.
Line 2
I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.
Line 3
The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.
Line 4
He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.
Line 5
I am told the Harcliffes are always remarkable for their reserve, and certainly the head of our house was an adept at repressing his emotions.

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.

accommodations noun US /əˌkɑːməˈdeɪʃənz/

plural of “accommodation” — making or becoming suitable; adjusting to circumstances

From this reading “I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.”

adept adjective US /əˈdept/

having or showing knowledge and skill and aptitude

From this reading “I am told the Harcliffes are always remarkable for their reserve, and certainly the head of our house was an adept at repressing his emotions.”

Brazilian adjective US /brəˈzɪljən/

of or relating to or characteristic of Brazil or the people of Brazil

From this reading “The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.”

deference noun US /ˈdefərəns/

a courteous expression (by word or deed) of esteem or regard

From this reading “He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.”

levee noun US /ˈlevi/

a formal reception of visitors or guests (as at a royal court)

From this reading “He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.”

merchandise noun US /ˈmɜːrtʃəndaɪz/

commodities offered for sale

From this reading “The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.”

repressing adjective US /riˈpresɪŋ/

restrictive of action

From this reading “I am told the Harcliffes are always remarkable for their reserve, and certainly the head of our house was an adept at repressing his emotions.”

Rio noun US /ˈriːoʊ/

the former capital and 2nd largest city of Brazil; chief Brazilian port; famous as a tourist attraction

From this reading “The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.”

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.

gentle pressure adjective + noun

In this reading “He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.”

simple statement adjective + noun

In this reading “The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.”

old gentleman adjective + noun

In this reading “He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.”

slight acquaintance noun + noun

In this reading “I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.”

questions concerning verb + noun counted as “question concern”

In this reading “The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.”

by means preposition + noun

In this reading “He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.”

former years adjective + noun

In this reading “The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.”

All words in this reading · 112

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 The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

aboardadverbUS /əˈbɔːrd/

on a ship, train, plane or other vehicle

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

accommodationsnounUS /əˌkɑːməˈdeɪʃənz/

plural of “accommodation” — making or becoming suitable; adjusting to circumstances

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

acquaintancenounUS /əˈkweɪntəns/

personal knowledge or information about someone or something

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

adeptadjectiveUS /əˈdept/

having or showing knowledge and skill and aptitude

From this reading I am told the Harcliffes are always remarkable for their reserve, and certainly the head of our house was an adept at repressing his emotions.

althoughconjunctionUS /ˌɔːlˈðoʊ/

in spite of the fact that

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

alwaysadverbUS /ˈɔːlweɪz/

at all times; all the time and on every occasion

From this reading I am told the Harcliffes are always remarkable for their reserve, and certainly the head of our house was an adept at repressing his emotions.

amauxiliary verbUS /æm/

the form of “be” used with “I”

From this reading I am told the Harcliffes are always remarkable for their reserve, and certainly the head of our house was an adept at repressing his emotions.

andeterminerUS /æn/

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

From this reading I am told the Harcliffes are always remarkable for their reserve, and certainly the head of our house was an adept at repressing his emotions.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/

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

From this reading I am told the Harcliffes are always remarkable for their reserve, and certainly the head of our house was an adept at repressing his emotions.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

askedverbUS /æskt/

past form of “ask” — make a request or demand for something to somebody

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

bestnounUS /best/

the supreme effort one can make

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

bidverbUS /bɪd/

propose a payment

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

BrazilianadjectiveUS /brəˈzɪljən/

of or relating to or characteristic of Brazil or the people of Brazil

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

BrothersnounUS /ˈbrʌðərz/

plural of “brother” — a male with the same parents as someone else

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

cabinnounUS /ˈkæbən/

small room on a ship or boat where people sleep

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

cameverbUS /keɪm/

inflected form of “come” — move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

CaptainnounUS /ˈkæptən/

an officer holding a rank below a major but above a lieutenant

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

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 I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

Castina

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

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

certainlyadverbUS /ˈsɜːrtənli/

definitely or positively (“sure” is sometimes used informally for “surely”)

From this reading I am told the Harcliffes are always remarkable for their reserve, and certainly the head of our house was an adept at repressing his emotions.

concerningverbUS /kənˈsɜːrnɪŋ/

-ing form of “concern” — be relevant to

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

contenting

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

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

denounUS /diː/

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

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

deferencenounUS /ˈdefərəns/

a courteous expression (by word or deed) of esteem or regard

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

didauxiliary verbUS /dɪd/

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

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

disposalnounUS /dɪˈspoʊzəl/

the power to use something or someone

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

emotionsnounUS /ɪˈmoʊʃənz/

plural of “emotion” — any strong feeling

From this reading I am told the Harcliffes are always remarkable for their reserve, and certainly the head of our house was an adept at repressing his emotions.

employedadjectiveUS /emˈplɔɪd/

having your services engaged for; or having a job especially one that pays wages or a salary

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

exhibitedverbUS /ɪɡˈzɪbətəd/

past form of “exhibit” — show an attribute, property, knowledge, or skill

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

fathernounUS /ˈfɑːðər/

a male parent (also used as a term of address to your father)

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

firmadjectiveUS /fɜːrm/

marked by firm determination or resolution; not shakable

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

formedadjectiveUS /fɔːrmd/

having or given a form or shape

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

formeradjectiveUS /ˈfɔːrmər/

referring to the first of two things or persons mentioned (or the earlier one or ones of several)

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

frequentlyadverbUS /ˈfriːkwəntli/

many times at short intervals

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

fromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

gentleadjectiveUS /ˈdʒentəl/

soft and mild; not harsh or stern or severe

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

gentlemannounUS /ˈdʒentəlmən/

a man of refinement

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

goodadjectiveUS /ɡʊd/

having desirable or positive qualities especially those suitable for a thing specified

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/

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

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

handnounUS /hænd/

the (prehensile) extremity of the superior limb

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

Harcliffe

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

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

Harcliffes

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

From this reading I am told the Harcliffes are always remarkable for their reserve, and certainly the head of our house was an adept at repressing his emotions.

hepronounUS /hiː/

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

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

headnounUS /hed/

the upper part of the human body or the front part of the body in animals; contains the face and brains

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

himpronounUS /hɪm/

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

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

himselfpronounUS /hɪmˈself/

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

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

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

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

housenounUS /haʊs/

a dwelling that serves as living quarters for one or more families

From this reading I am told the Harcliffes are always remarkable for their reserve, and certainly the head of our house was an adept at repressing his emotions.

IpronounUS /aɪ/

the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

Janiero

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

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

Lertine

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

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

leveenounUS /ˈlevi/

a formal reception of visitors or guests (as at a royal court)

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

masternounUS /ˈmæstər/

an artist of consummate skill

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

mepronounUS /miː/

the person speaking, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

meansnounUS /miːnz/

thing or person that acts to produce a particular effect or achieve an end

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

merchandisenounUS /ˈmɜːrtʃəndaɪz/

commodities offered for sale

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

mydeterminerUS /maɪ/

belonging to the person speaking

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

NelsonnounUS /ˈnelsən/

English admiral who defeated the French fleets of Napoleon but was mortally wounded at Trafalgar (1758-1805)

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

NewadjectiveUS /nuː/

not of long duration; having just (or relatively recently) come into being or been made or acquired or discovered

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

nodeterminerUS /noʊ/

not any; not one

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

nonepronounUS /nʌn/

not one, and not any

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

nowadverbUS /naʊ/

in the historical present; at this point in the narration of a series of past events

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

oftenadverbUS /ˈɔːfən/

many times at short intervals

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

oldadjectiveUS /oʊld/

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

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

OrleansnounUS /ˈɔːrliənz/

a city on the Loire river in north central France; site of the siege of Orleans by the English (1428-1429)

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

ourdeterminerUS /ˈaʊər/

belonging to the speaker and others

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

ownverbUS /oʊn/

have ownership or possession of

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

passengersnounUS /ˈpæsəndʒərz/

plural of “passenger” — a traveler riding in a vehicle (a boat or bus or car or plane or train etc) who is not operating it

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

Pedro

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

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

placedadjectiveUS /pleɪst/

situated in a particular spot or position

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

pleasedadjectiveUS /pliːzd/

experiencing or manifesting pleasure

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

pressurenounUS /ˈpreʃər/

the force applied to a unit area of surface; measured in pascals (SI unit) or in dynes (cgs unit)

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

questionsnounUS /ˈkwestʃənz/

plural of “question” — an instance of questioning

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

rareadjectiveUS /rer/

not widely known; especially valued for its uncommonness

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

remarkableadjectiveUS /rɪˈmɑːrkəbəl/

unusual or striking

From this reading I am told the Harcliffes are always remarkable for their reserve, and certainly the head of our house was an adept at repressing his emotions.

repressingadjectiveUS /riˈpresɪŋ/

restrictive of action

From this reading I am told the Harcliffes are always remarkable for their reserve, and certainly the head of our house was an adept at repressing his emotions.

reservenounUS /rɪˈzɜːrv/

formality and propriety of manner

From this reading I am told the Harcliffes are always remarkable for their reserve, and certainly the head of our house was an adept at repressing his emotions.

RionounUS /ˈriːoʊ/

the former capital and 2nd largest city of Brazil; chief Brazilian port; famous as a tourist attraction

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

simpleadjectiveUS /ˈsɪmpəl/

having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

slightnounUS /slaɪt/

a deliberate discourteous act (usually as an expression of anger or disapproval)

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

sonnounUS /sʌn/

a male human offspring

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

state-room

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

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

statementnounUS /ˈsteɪtmənt/

a message that is stated or declared; a communication (oral or written) setting forth particulars or facts etc

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

surprisedadjectiveUS /sərˈpraɪzd/

taken unawares or suddenly and feeling wonder or astonishment

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

ThedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

theirdeterminerUS /ðer/

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading I am told the Harcliffes are always remarkable for their reserve, and certainly the head of our house was an adept at repressing his emotions.

thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

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

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

toldverbUS /toʊld/

inflected form of “tell” — express in words

From this reading I am told the Harcliffes are always remarkable for their reserve, and certainly the head of our house was an adept at repressing his emotions.

towardprepositionUS /təˈwɔːrd/

in the direction of

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

trading-ship

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

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

transportnounUS /trænˈspɔːrt/

something that serves as a means of transportation

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

unclenounUS /ˈʌŋkəl/

the brother of your father or mother; the husband of your aunt

From this reading He exhibited rare deference toward my uncle, Nelson Harcliffe, as the head of our firm, when the old gentleman came to the head of the levee to bid me good by; this Uncle Nelson did by means of a gentle pressure of my hand.

usuallyadverbUS /ˈjuːʒəwəli/

under normal conditions

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

vesselnounUS /ˈvesəl/

a tube in which a body fluid circulates

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

voyagenounUS /ˈvɔɪədʒ/

an act of traveling by water

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading The Castina was a Brazilian trading-ship frequently employed by the firm of Harcliffe Brothers to transport merchandise from New Orleans to Rio de Janiero.

welcomeverbUS /ˈwelkəm/

accept gladly

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/

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

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

whenconjunctionUS /wen/

at the time that

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading I had formed a slight acquaintance with the master, Pedro Lertine, and was not surprised when he placed his own state-room at my disposal; for although the vessel usually carried passengers, the cabin accommodations were none of the best.

yearsnounUS /jɪrz/

a late time of life

From this reading The Captain asked no questions concerning my voyage, contenting himself with the simple statement that he had often carried my father with him in the Castina in former years, and was now pleased to welcome the son aboard.

Chapter 2 of The Fate of a Crown by L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum holds 119 sentences, grouped into 24 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 2 of The Fate of a Crown contain?

Chapter 2 holds 119 sentences of The Fate of a Crown, unabridged, divided into 24 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 2 of The Fate of a Crown by L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 119 sentences, grouped into 24 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 2 of The Fate of a Crown?

Work through the 24 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 24 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 2 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 2 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 Fate of a Crown

Common questions about reading The Fate of a Crown by L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of The Fate of a Crown?

Yes. All 2883 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #53566 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of The Fate of a Crown is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #53566, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does The Fate of a Crown take to read?

About 240 minutes of reading across 577 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read The Fate of a Crown section by section

How to work through The Fate of a Crown section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 25 chapters of The Fate of a Crown 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 Fate of a Crown

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

Envelope
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Fate of a Crown; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Leaning
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Fate of a Crown; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Chair
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Fate of a Crown; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Smoked
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Fate of a Crown; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.