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The Illustrious Prince
The Illustrious Prince

Chapter XVII · Chapter 17

Chapter 17 of The Illustrious Prince is here in full — 116 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
Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.
His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.
His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.
Mr. Coulson was not a man whose acquaintance it was difficult to make.
From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

The Illustrious Prince

Chapter XVII · Chapter 17

Chapter 17 of The Illustrious Prince is here in full — 116 sentences across 24 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

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

Line 1
Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.
Line 2
His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.
Line 3
His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.
/hɪz ˈbɪznəs ˈdʊrɪŋ ðə ˈdeɪtaɪm hiː kept tuː hɪmˈself bʌt hiː ˈsɜːrtənli wɑːz pəˈzest ʌv ə ˈbæɡfʊl ʌv ˈdɑːkjəmənts ənd ˈdrɔːɪŋz rɪˈleɪtɪŋ tuː ˈsʌndri ˈpætənts kəˈnektɪd wɪð ðə ˌmænjəˈfæktʃər ʌv ˈwʊlən ɡʊdz ðə ˈpreɪzəz ʌv wɪtʃ hiː wɑːz ˈɔːlweɪz ˈredi tuː sɪŋ ɪn ə moʊst ɪnˌθuːziˈæstɪk ˈfæʃən/
Line 4
Mr. Coulson was not a man whose acquaintance it was difficult to make.
Line 5
From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

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.

bagful noun US /ˈbæɡfʊl/

the quantity that a bag will hold

From this reading “His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.”

cocktails noun US /ˈkɑːkteɪlz/

plural of “cocktail” — a short mixed drink

From this reading “His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.”

compatriots noun US /kəmˈpeɪtriəts/

plural of “compatriot” — a person from your own country

From this reading “From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.”

competing verb US /kəmˈpiːtɪŋ/

-ing form of “compete” — compete for something; engage in a contest; measure oneself against others

From this reading “From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.”

desultory adjective US /ˈdesəltɔːri/

marked by lack of definite plan or regularity or purpose; jumping from one thing to another

From this reading “From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.”

patents noun US /ˈpætənts/

plural of “patent” — a document granting an inventor sole rights to an invention

From this reading “His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.”

patronized adjective US /ˈpeɪtrənaɪzd/

having patronage or clients

From this reading “His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.”

Savoy noun US /səˈvɔɪ/

a geographical region of historical importance; a former duchy in what is now southwestern France, western Switzerland, and northwestern Italy

From this reading “Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.”

All words in this reading · 125

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 His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

acquaintancenounUS /əˈkweɪntəns/

personal knowledge or information about someone or something

From this reading Mr. Coulson was not a man whose acquaintance it was difficult to make.

afternoonnounUS /ˌæftərˈnuːn/

the part of the day between noon and evening

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

airnounUS /er/

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

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

almostadverbUS /ˈɔːlmoʊst/

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

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

alwaysadverbUS /ˈɔːlweɪz/

at all times; all the time and on every occasion

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

AmericannounUS /əˈmerəkən/

a native or inhabitant of the United States

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

amusementnounUS /əˈmjuːzmənt/

a feeling of delight at being entertained

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

andeterminerUS /æn/

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

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

anyadjectiveUS /ˈeni/

one or some or every or all without specification

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

anythingpronounUS /ˈeniθɪŋ/

any thing at all

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

approvedadjectiveUS /əˈpruːvd/

established by authority; given authoritative approval

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

articlenounUS /ˈɑːrtəkəl/

nonfictional prose forming an independent part of a publication

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

attentionnounUS /əˈtenʃən/

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

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

attractionsnounUS /əˈtrækʃənz/

plural of “attraction” — the force by which one object attracts another

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

BnounUS /biː/

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

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

bagfulnounUS /ˈbæɡfʊl/

the quantity that a bag will hold

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

bandnounUS /bænd/

an unofficial association of people or groups

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

BarnounUS /bɑːr/

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

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

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

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/

the past participle of “be”

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

betweenprepositionUS /bɪˈtwiːn/

in the space, time, or range separating two things

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

billiardsnounUS /ˈbɪljərdz/

any of several games played on rectangular cloth-covered table (with cushioned edges) in which long tapering cue sticks are used to propel ivory (or composition) balls

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

businessnounUS /ˈbɪznəs/

a commercial or industrial enterprise and the people who constitute it

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

certainlyadverbUS /ˈsɜːrtənli/

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

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

cocktailsnounUS /ˈkɑːkteɪlz/

plural of “cocktail” — a short mixed drink

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

compatriotsnounUS /kəmˈpeɪtriəts/

plural of “compatriot” — a person from your own country

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

competingverbUS /kəmˈpiːtɪŋ/

-ing form of “compete” — compete for something; engage in a contest; measure oneself against others

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

connectedadjectiveUS /kəˈnektɪd/

being joined in close association

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

continuallyadverbUS /kənˈtɪnjuːəli/

seemingly without interruption

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

conversationnounUS /ˌkɑːnvərˈseɪʃən/

the use of speech for informal exchange of views or ideas or information etc.

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

cornernounUS /ˈkɔːrnər/

a place off to the side of an area

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

Coulson

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

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

daytimenounUS /ˈdeɪtaɪm/

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

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

desultoryadjectiveUS /ˈdesəltɔːri/

marked by lack of definite plan or regularity or purpose; jumping from one thing to another

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

difficultadjectiveUS /ˈdɪfəkəlt/

not easy; requiring great physical or mental effort to accomplish or comprehend or endure

From this reading Mr. Coulson was not a man whose acquaintance it was difficult to make.

dividingverbUS /dɪˈvaɪdɪŋ/

-ing form of “divide” — separate into parts or portions

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

documentsnounUS /ˈdɑːkjəmənts/

plural of “document” — writing that provides information (especially information of an official nature)

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

drawingsnounUS /ˈdrɔːɪŋz/

plural of “drawing” — an illustration that is drawn by hand and published in a book, magazine, or newspaper

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

drinkverbUS /drɪŋk/

take in liquids

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

duringprepositionUS /ˈdʊrɪŋ/

all through a period, or at some point within it

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

else

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

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

enthusiasticadjectiveUS /ɪnˌθuːziˈæstɪk/

having or showing great excitement and interest

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

everydeterminerUS /ˈevəri/

all the members of a group, with none left out

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

fashionnounUS /ˈfæʃən/

how something is done or how it happens

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

fellow-countrymen

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

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

festiveadjectiveUS /ˈfestɪv/

offering fun and gaiety

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

fivenounUS /faɪv/

the cardinal number that is the sum of four and one

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

FromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

furniturenounUS /ˈfɜːrnɪtʃər/

furnishings that make a room or other area ready for occupancy

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

generallyadverbUS /ˈdʒenərəli/

usually; as a rule

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

gentlemannounUS /ˈdʒentəlmən/

a man of refinement

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

goodsnounUS /ɡʊdz/

plural of “good” — benefit

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

gossiped

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

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

GrandadjectiveUS /ɡrænd/

of behavior that is impressive and ambitious in scale or scope

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

greatadjectiveUS /ɡreɪt/

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

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/

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

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

hepronounUS /hiː/

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

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

headquartersnounUS /ˈhedkwɔːrtərz/

(usually plural) the office that serves as the administrative center of an enterprise

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

highballs

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

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

himselfpronounUS /hɪmˈself/

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

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

HisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

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

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

homenounUS /hoʊm/

where you live at a particular time

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

HotelnounUS /hoʊˈtel/

a building where travelers can pay for lodging and meals and other services

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

indulgingnounUS /ˌɪnˈdʌldʒɪŋ/

the act of indulging or gratifying a desire

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

itpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading Mr. Coulson was not a man whose acquaintance it was difficult to make.

JamesnounUS /dʒeɪmz/

a Stuart king of Scotland who married a daughter of Henry VII; when England and France went to war in 1513 he invaded England and died in defeat at Flodden (1473-1513)

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

keptadjectiveUS /kept/

(especially of promises or contracts) not violated or disregarded

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

LondonnounUS /ˈlʌndən/

the capital and largest city of England; located on the Thames in southeastern England; financial and industrial and cultural center

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

makeverbUS /meɪk/

engage in

From this reading Mr. Coulson was not a man whose acquaintance it was difficult to make.

mannounUS /mæn/

an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)

From this reading Mr. Coulson was not a man whose acquaintance it was difficult to make.

manufactureverbUS /ˌmænjəˈfæktʃər/

put together out of artificial or natural components or parts

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

metverbUS /met/

inflected form of “meet” — come together

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

mightmodal verbUS /maɪt/

used to say something is possible but not certain

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

moreadjectiveUS /mɔːr/

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

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

mostadverbUS /moʊst/

used to form the superlative

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

MrnounUS /ˈmɪstər/

a form of address for a man

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

muchadverbUS /mʌtʃ/

to a great degree or extent

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading Mr. Coulson was not a man whose acquaintance it was difficult to make.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

officenounUS /ˈɔːfɪs/

place of business where professional or clerical duties are performed

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

otheradjectiveUS /ˈʌðər/

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

outsideadjectiveUS /ˈaʊtˈsaɪd/

relating to or being on or near the outer side or limit

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

ParisnounUS /ˈperɪs/

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

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

patentsnounUS /ˈpætənts/

plural of “patent” — a document granting an inventor sole rights to an invention

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

patronizedadjectiveUS /ˈpeɪtrənaɪzd/

having patronage or clients

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

pervadedverbUS /pərˈveɪdɪd/

past form of “pervade” — spread or diffuse through

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

placesnounUS /ˈpleɪsəz/

plural of “place” — a point located with respect to surface features of some region

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

possessedadjectiveUS /pəˈzest/

influenced or controlled by a powerful force such as a strong emotion

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

praisesnounUS /ˈpreɪzəz/

plural of “praise” — an expression of approval and commendation

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

readyadjectiveUS /ˈredi/

completely prepared or in condition for immediate action or use or progress

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

relatingverbUS /rɪˈleɪtɪŋ/

-ing form of “relate” — make a logical or causal connection

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

resembledverbUS /rɪˈzembəld/

past form of “resemble” — appear like; be similar or bear a likeness to

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

roomsnounUS /ruːmz/

apartment consisting of a series of connected rooms used as a living unit (as in a hotel)

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

satnounUS /sæt/

the seventh and last day of the week; observed as the Sabbath by Jews and some Christians

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

SavoynounUS /səˈvɔɪ/

a geographical region of historical importance; a former duchy in what is now southwestern France, western Switzerland, and northwestern Italy

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

scorning

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

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

sevennounUS /ˈsevən/

the cardinal number that is the sum of six and one

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

singverbUS /sɪŋ/

deliver by singing

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

someadjectiveUS /sʌm/

(quantifier) used with either mass nouns or plural count nouns to indicate an unspecified number or quantity

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

stoolnounUS /stuːl/

a simple seat without a back or arms

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

sundryadjectiveUS /ˈsʌndri/

consisting of a haphazard assortment of different kinds

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

teanounUS /tiː/

a beverage made by steeping tea leaves in water

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

thanconjunctionUS /ðæn/

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

uponprepositionUS /əˈpɑːn/

a formal word for “on”

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

usuallyadverbUS /ˈjuːʒəwəli/

under normal conditions

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

variousadjectiveUS /ˈveriəs/

of many different kinds purposefully arranged but lacking any uniformity

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

visitedverbUS /ˈvɪzɪtɪd/

past form of “visit” — go to see a place, as for entertainment

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading Mr. James B. Coulson was almost as much at home at the Grand Hotel, Paris, as he had been at the Savoy in London.

watchingnounUS /ˈwɑːtʃɪŋ/

the act of observing; taking a patient look

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/

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

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

whereconjunctionUS /wer/

in or at the place that

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

whopronounUS /huː/

which person or people

From this reading From five to seven every afternoon, scorning the attractions of the band outside and the generally festive air which pervaded the great tea rooms, he sat at the corner of the bar upon an article of furniture which resembled more than anything else an office stool, dividing his attention between desultory conversation with any other gentleman who might be indulging in a drink, and watching the billiards in which some of his compatriots were usually competing.

whompronounUS /huːm/

the form of “who” used as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

whosedeterminerUS /huːz/

belonging to which person

From this reading Mr. Coulson was not a man whose acquaintance it was difficult to make.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading His headquarters were at the American Bar, where he approved of the cocktails, patronized the highballs, and continually met fellow-countrymen with whom he gossiped and visited various places of amusement.

woollennounUS /ˈwʊlən/

a fabric made from the hair of sheep

From this reading His business during the daytime he kept to himself, but he certainly was possessed of a bagful of documents and drawings relating to sundry patents connected with the manufacture of woollen goods, the praises of which he was always ready to sing in a most enthusiastic fashion.

Chapter 17 of The Illustrious Prince by E. Phillips (Edward Phillips) Oppenheim holds 116 sentences, grouped into 24 reading sections of at most 5 sentences. The text is the public-domain source, 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 17 of The Illustrious Prince contain?

Chapter 17 holds 116 sentences of The Illustrious Prince, unabridged, divided into 24 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 17 of The Illustrious Prince by E. Phillips (Edward Phillips) Oppenheim exactly as it stands in the public-domain source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 116 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 17 of The Illustrious Prince?

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 17 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 17 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 Illustrious Prince

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

Is this the complete text of The Illustrious Prince?

Yes. All 6327 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #1447 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of The Illustrious Prince is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #1447, a public-domain edition. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does The Illustrious Prince take to read?

About 527 minutes of reading across 1266 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

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

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  3. Listen and tap

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Vocabulary met early in The Illustrious Prince

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

Little
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Illustrious Prince; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Murmur
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Illustrious Prince; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Regret
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Illustrious Prince; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Amongst
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Illustrious Prince; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.