Learn English through classic literature • Five-line readings • Clear US narration
VELMORA ACADEMY
Academy of Archival Languages & Memory Studies
Menu Close
The Great Impersonation
The Great Impersonation

Chapter IV · Chapter 4

Chapter 4 of The Great Impersonation is here in full — 183 sentences across 37 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Cover illustration for The Great Impersonation
Context Illustration Reading 1/36 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.
It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.
Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.
The Duchess, who was reclining in an easy-chair, held out her hand, which her visitor raised to his lips.
She motioned him to a seat by her side and once more scrutinised him with unabashed intentness.
0:00 / 0:00
Speed 0.75x
AI-generated narration by OpenAI · Slow US English
LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

The Great Impersonation

Chapter IV · Chapter 4

Chapter 4 of The Great Impersonation is here in full — 183 sentences across 37 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/36 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.
Line 2
It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.
Line 3
Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.
Line 4
The Duchess, who was reclining in an easy-chair, held out her hand, which her visitor raised to his lips.
Line 5
She motioned him to a seat by her side and once more scrutinised him with unabashed intentness.

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.

disfiguring verb US /dɪˈsfɪɡjərɪŋ/

-ing form of “disfigure” — mar or spoil the appearance of

From this reading “It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.”

instigation noun US /ˌɪnstɪˈɡeɪʃən/

the verbal act of urging on

From this reading “It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.”

interviewed verb US /ˈɪntərvjuːd/

past form of “interview” — conduct an interview in television, newspaper, and radio reporting

From this reading “Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.”

millionaire's noun US /ˌmɪljəˈnerz/

possessive form of “millionaire” — a person whose material wealth is valued at more than a million dollars

From this reading “It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.”

myrmidon noun US /ˈmɜːrmɪdɪn/

a follower who carries out orders without question

From this reading “Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.”

porter's noun US /ˈpɔːrtərz/

possessive form of “porter” — a person employed to carry luggage and supplies

From this reading “Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.”

terminating verb US /ˈtɜːrməneɪtɪŋ/

-ing form of “terminate” — bring to an end or halt

From this reading “Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.”

unabashed adjective US /ˌʌnəˈbæʃt/

not embarrassed

From this reading “She motioned him to a seat by her side and once more scrutinised him with unabashed intentness.”

All words in this reading · 107

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 It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

acquiredadjectiveUS /əˈkwaɪərd/

gotten through environmental forces

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

againstprepositionUS /əˈɡenst/

touching and pressing; in opposition to

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

andeterminerUS /æn/

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

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

anotherdeterminerUS /əˈnʌðər/

one more of the same kind, or a different one

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

apartmentnounUS /əˈpɑːrtmənt/

a suite of rooms usually on one floor of an apartment house

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

apparentlyadverbUS /əˈperəntli/

from appearances alone

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/

the past participle of “be”

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

boudoirnounUS /ˈbuːdɔɪr/

a lady's bedroom or private sitting room

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

buffnounUS /bʌf/

an ardent follower and admirer

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

conductedverbUS /kənˈdʌktəd/

past form of “conduct” — direct the course of; manage or control

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

conservatorynounUS /kənˈsɜːrvətɔːri/

the faculty and students of a school specializing in one of the fine arts

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

disfiguringverbUS /dɪˈsfɪɡjərɪŋ/

-ing form of “disfigure” — mar or spoil the appearance of

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

Dominey

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

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

downadjectiveUS /daʊn/

being or moving lower in position or less in some value

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

drawing-room

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

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

DuchessnounUS /ˈdʌtʃəs/

the wife of a duke or a woman holding ducal title in her own right

From this reading The Duchess, who was reclining in an easy-chair, held out her hand, which her visitor raised to his lips.

dukenounUS /duːk/

a British peer of the highest rank

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

easy-chair

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

From this reading The Duchess, who was reclining in an easy-chair, held out her hand, which her visitor raised to his lips.

edifices

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

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

exotics

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

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

extraordinarilyadverbUS /ekˌstrɔːrdəˈnerəli/

extremely

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

filledadjectiveUS /fɪld/

(usually followed by “with” or used as a combining form) generously supplied with

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

finallyadverbUS /ˈfaɪnəli/

after an unspecified period of time or an especially long delay

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

firstadjectiveUS /fɜːrst/

preceding all others in time or space or degree

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

formeradjectiveUS /ˈfɔːrmər/

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

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

friendnounUS /frend/

a person you know well and regard with affection and trust

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

generationsnounUS /ˌdʒenərˈeɪʃənz/

plural of “generation” — all the people living at the same time or of approximately the same age

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

greatadjectiveUS /ɡreɪt/

relatively large in size or number or extent; larger than others of its kind

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/

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

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

hallnounUS /hɔːl/

an interior passage or corridor onto which rooms open

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

handnounUS /hænd/

the (prehensile) extremity of the superior limb

From this reading The Duchess, who was reclining in an easy-chair, held out her hand, which her visitor raised to his lips.

hatnounUS /hæt/

headdress that protects the head from bad weather; has shaped crown and usually a brim

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

heldadjectiveUS /held/

occupied or in the control of; often used in combination

From this reading The Duchess, who was reclining in an easy-chair, held out her hand, which her visitor raised to his lips.

herdeterminerUS /hɜːr/

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

From this reading The Duchess, who was reclining in an easy-chair, held out her hand, which her visitor raised to his lips.

highwaynounUS /ˈhaɪweɪ/

a major road for any form of motor transport

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

himpronounUS /hɪm/

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

From this reading She motioned him to a seat by her side and once more scrutinised him with unabashed intentness.

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

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

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

HousenounUS /haʊs/

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

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

individualadjectiveUS /ˌɪndəˈvɪdʒəwəl/

being or characteristic of a single thing or person

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

instigationnounUS /ˌɪnstɪˈɡeɪʃən/

the verbal act of urging on

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

intentnessnoun

the quality of being intent and concentrated

From this reading She motioned him to a seat by her side and once more scrutinised him with unabashed intentness.

interviewedverbUS /ˈɪntərvjuːd/

past form of “interview” — conduct an interview in television, newspaper, and radio reporting

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

intimateadjectiveUS /ˈɪntəmət/

marked by close acquaintance, association, or familiarity

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/

moving to the inside of something

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

ItpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

LanenounUS /leɪn/

a narrow way or road

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

largeradjectiveUS /ˈlɑːrdʒər/

large or big relative to something else

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

lateradverbUS /ˈleɪtər/

happening at a time subsequent to a reference time

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

leadingadjectiveUS /ˈliːdɪŋ/

indicating the most important performer or role

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

lipsnounUS /lɪps/

plural of “lip” — either of two fleshy folds of tissue that surround the mouth and play a role in speaking

From this reading The Duchess, who was reclining in an easy-chair, held out her hand, which her visitor raised to his lips.

littleadjectiveUS /ˈlɪtəl/

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

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

lodgeverbUS /lɑːdʒ/

be a lodger; stay temporarily

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

madeadjectiveUS /meɪd/

produced by a manufacturing process

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

major-domonoun

the chief steward or butler of a great household

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

middlenounUS /ˈmɪdəl/

an area that is approximately central within some larger region

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

millionaire'snounUS /ˌmɪljəˈnerz/

possessive form of “millionaire” — a person whose material wealth is valued at more than a million dollars

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

moreadjectiveUS /mɔːr/

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

From this reading She motioned him to a seat by her side and once more scrutinised him with unabashed intentness.

motionedverbUS /ˈmoʊʃənd/

past form of “motion” — show, express or direct through movement

From this reading She motioned him to a seat by her side and once more scrutinised him with unabashed intentness.

muteadjectiveUS /mjuːt/

expressed without speech

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

myrmidonnounUS /ˈmɜːrmɪdɪn/

a follower who carries out orders without question

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

nodeterminerUS /noʊ/

not any; not one

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

onceadverbUS /wʌns/

on one occasion

From this reading She motioned him to a seat by her side and once more scrutinised him with unabashed intentness.

onepronounUS /wʌn/

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

outadjectiveUS /aʊt/

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

ParknounUS /pɑːrk/

a large area of land preserved in its natural state as public property

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

porter'snounUS /ˈpɔːrtərz/

possessive form of “porter” — a person employed to carry luggage and supplies

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

protestnounUS /ˈproʊtest/

a formal and solemn declaration of objection

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

raisedadjectiveUS /reɪzd/

located or moved above the surround or above the normal position

From this reading The Duchess, who was reclining in an easy-chair, held out her hand, which her visitor raised to his lips.

reasonnounUS /ˈriːzən/

a rational motive for a belief or action

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

recliningnounUS /rɪˈklaɪnɪŋ/

the act of assuming or maintaining a reclining position

From this reading The Duchess, who was reclining in an easy-chair, held out her hand, which her visitor raised to his lips.

RegentnounUS /ˈriːdʒənt/

members of a governing board

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

Regent's

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

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

residencesnounUS /ˈrezɪdənsɪz/

plural of “residence” — any address at which you dwell more than temporarily

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

retainedadjectiveUS /rɪˈteɪnd/

continued in your keeping or use or memory

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

scrutinised

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

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

seatnounUS /siːt/

a space reserved for sitting (as in a theater or on a train or airplane)

From this reading She motioned him to a seat by her side and once more scrutinised him with unabashed intentness.

semi-palatial

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

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

setverbUS /set/

put into a certain place or abstract location

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

ShepronounUS /ʃiː/

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

From this reading She motioned him to a seat by her side and once more scrutinised him with unabashed intentness.

sidenounUS /saɪd/

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

From this reading She motioned him to a seat by her side and once more scrutinised him with unabashed intentness.

silknounUS /sɪlk/

a fabric made from the fine threads produced by certain insect larvae

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

stonenounUS /stoʊn/

a lump or mass of hard consolidated mineral matter

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

sweet-smellingadjective

having a natural fragrance

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

terminatingverbUS /ˈtɜːrməneɪtɪŋ/

-ing form of “terminate” — bring to an end or halt

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

thosedeterminerUS /ðoʊz/

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

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

throughprepositionUS /θruː/

from one end or side of something to the other

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

tinyadjectiveUS /ˈtaɪni/

very small

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading The Duchess, who was reclining in an easy-chair, held out her hand, which her visitor raised to his lips.

unabashedadjectiveUS /ˌʌnəˈbæʃt/

not embarrassed

From this reading She motioned him to a seat by her side and once more scrutinised him with unabashed intentness.

usheredverbUS /ˈʌʃərd/

past form of “usher” — take (someone) to their seats, as in theaters or auditoriums

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

VictorianadjectiveUS /vɪkˈtɔːriən/

of or relating to Queen Victoria of Great Britain or to the age in which she ruled

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

visitornounUS /ˈvɪzɪtər/

someone who visits

From this reading The Duchess, who was reclining in an easy-chair, held out her hand, which her visitor raised to his lips.

waistcoatnoun

a man's sleeveless garment worn underneath a coat

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

whateverdeterminerUS /ˌwʌˈtevər/

any or all of a kind, it does not matter which

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

whopronounUS /huː/

which person or people

From this reading It had been acquired by a former duke at the instigation of the Regent, who was his intimate friend, and retained by later generations in mute protest against the disfiguring edifices which had made a millionaire's highway of Park Lane.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading Dominey, who was first scrutinised by an individual in buff waistcoat and silk hat at the porter's lodge, was interviewed by a major-domo in the great stone hall, conducted through an extraordinarily Victorian drawing-room by another myrmidon in a buff waistcoat, and finally ushered into a tiny little boudoir leading out of a larger apartment and terminating in a conservatory filled with sweet-smelling exotics.

WorcesternounUS /ˈwʊstər/

United States lexicographer who was accused of plagiarism by Noah Webster (1784-1865)

From this reading Worcester House was one of those semi-palatial residences set down apparently for no reason whatever in the middle of Regent's Park.

Chapter 4 of The Great Impersonation by E. Phillips (Edward Phillips) Oppenheim holds 183 sentences, grouped into 37 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 Great Impersonation contain?

Chapter 4 holds 183 sentences of The Great Impersonation, unabridged, divided into 37 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 4 of The Great Impersonation by E. Phillips (Edward Phillips) Oppenheim exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 183 sentences, grouped into 37 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 Great Impersonation?

Work through the 37 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 37 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 Great Impersonation

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

Is this the complete text of The Great Impersonation?

Yes. All 5537 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #5815 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of The Great Impersonation is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #5815, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does The Great Impersonation take to read?

About 461 minutes of reading across 1108 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read The Great Impersonation section by section

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

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 28 chapters of The Great Impersonation 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 Great Impersonation

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

Dominey
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Great Impersonation; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Slept
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Great Impersonation; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Following
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Great Impersonation; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Morning
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Great Impersonation; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.