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The Infidel
The Infidel

Chapter VIII

Chapter 8 of The Infidel is here in full — 207 sentences across 42 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

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According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.
Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.
This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.
A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.
If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

The Infidel

Chapter VIII

Chapter 8 of The Infidel is here in full — 207 sentences across 42 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/41 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.
Line 2
Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.
Line 3
This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.
Line 4
A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.
Line 5
If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

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.

comprehensively adverb US /ˌkɑːmprɪˈhensɪvli/

in an all-inclusive manner

From this reading “A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.”

corse noun US /kɔːrs/

an island in the Mediterranean; with adjacent islets it constitutes a region of France

From this reading “If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?”

exposes noun US /ɪkˈspoʊzɪz/

plural of “expose” — the exposure of an impostor or a fraud

From this reading “If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?”

foibles noun US /ˈfɔɪbəlz/

plural of “foible” — a behavioral attribute that is distinctive and peculiar to an individual

From this reading “Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.”

humbling adjective US /ˈhʌmbəlɪŋ/

causing awareness of your shortcomings

From this reading “A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.”

loopholes noun US /ˈluːphoʊlz/

plural of “loophole” — an ambiguity (especially one in the text of a law or contract) that makes it possible to evade a difficulty or obligation

From this reading “This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.”

moralists noun US /ˈmɔːrəlɪsts/

plural of “moralist” — a philosopher who specializes in morals and moral problems

From this reading “Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.”

slayer noun US /ˈsleɪər/

someone who causes the death of a person or animal

From this reading “If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?”

Word partnerships in these lines

English keeps certain words together, and knowing the pair is worth more than knowing each word alone. Every partnership below was counted across our whole published library, and earns its place by appearing far more often than two unrelated words of the same frequency would.

Shown as this reading writes them, with the form the library counts, what kind of pairing it is, and how often it occurs.

peep through verb + particle

In this reading “A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.”

own expense verb + noun

In this reading “This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.”

kindly feelings adjective + noun

In this reading “A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.”

old heathen adjective + noun

In this reading “Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.”

good works adjective + noun

In this reading “A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.”

of mankind preposition + noun

In this reading “If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?”

upon a highway preposition + article + noun counted as “upon … highway”

In this reading “If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?”

find some verb + adjective

In this reading “If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?”

All words in this reading · 181

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 According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

aboveprepositionUS /əˈbʌv/

higher than, or over, something

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

AccordingadjectiveUS /əˈkɔːrdɪŋ/

(followed by “to”) in agreement with or accordant with

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

acquiringnounUS /əˈkwaɪrɪŋ/

the act of acquiring something

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

alladjectiveUS /ɔːl/

(quantifier) used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

apologuenoun

a short moral story (often with animal characters)

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/

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

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

assassinnounUS /əˈsæsən/

a murderer (especially one who kills a prominent political figure) who kills by a surprise attack and often is hired to do the deed

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

avoidedverbUS /əˈvɔɪdɪd/

past form of “avoid” — stay clear from; keep away from; keep out of the way of someone or something

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

backadverbUS /bæk/

in or to or toward a former location

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

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

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

biassing

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

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

bosoms

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

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

breastnounUS /brest/

the front of the trunk from the neck to the abdomen

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

breastsnounUS /brests/

plural of “breast” — the front of the trunk from the neck to the abdomen

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

canmodal verbUS /kæn/

to be able to, or to be allowed to

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

cankered

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

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

carriesnounUS /ˈkæriz/

plural of “carry” — the act of carrying something

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

casementnoun

a window sash that is hinged (usually on one side)

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

clappedverbUS /klæpt/

inflected form of “clap” — put quickly or forcibly

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

CommoditynounUS /kəˈmɑːdəti/

articles of commerce

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

comprehensivelyadverbUS /ˌkɑːmprɪˈhensɪvli/

in an all-inclusive manner

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

concealedadjectiveUS /kənˈsiːld/

not accessible to view

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

corsenounUS /kɔːrs/

an island in the Mediterranean; with adjacent islets it constitutes a region of France

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

curiositynounUS /ˌkjʊriˈɑːsəti/

a state in which you want to learn more about something

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

deeperadverbUS /ˈdiːpər/

comparative of “deeply” — to a great depth psychologically or emotionally

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

depositedverbUS /dəˈpɑːzɪtɪd/

past form of “deposit” — put, fix, force, or implant

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

detectverbUS /dɪˈtekt/

discover or determine the existence, presence, or fact of

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

discloseverbUS /dɪˈskloʊz/

make known to the public information that was previously known only to a few people or that was meant to be kept a secret

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

disguisenounUS /dɪsˈɡaɪz/

A means of altering one's appearance to conceal one's identity.

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

disposedadjectiveUS /dɪˈspoʊzd/

having made preparations

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

distinctionnounUS /dɪˈstɪŋkʃən/

a discrimination between things as different and distinct on the basis of their characteristics or attributes

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

divenounUS /daɪv/

a cheap disreputable nightclub or dance hall

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

eachdeterminerUS /iːtʃ/

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

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

evenadjectiveUS /ˈiːvɪn/

divisible by two

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

everydeterminerUS /ˈevəri/

all the members of a group, with none left out

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

expensenounUS /ɪkˈspens/

amounts paid for goods and services that may be currently tax deductible (as opposed to capital expenditures)

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

exposesnounUS /ɪkˈspoʊzɪz/

plural of “expose” — the exposure of an impostor or a fraud

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

exposurenounUS /ɪkˈspoʊʒər/

vulnerability to the elements; to the action of heat or cold or wind or rain

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

expressedadjectiveUS /ɪkˈsprest/

communicated in words

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

eyesnounUS /aɪz/

opinion or judgment

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

facilitynounUS /fəˈsɪlɪti/

a building or place that provides a particular service or is used for a particular industry

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

familiaradjectiveUS /fəˈmɪljər/

well known or easily recognized

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

feelingsnounUS /ˈfiːlɪŋz/

emotional or moral sensitivity (especially in relation to personal principles or dignity)

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

fellowsnounUS /ˈfeloʊz/

plural of “fellow” — a boy or man

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

findverbUS /faɪnd/

come upon, as if by accident; meet with

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

fittedadjectiveUS /ˈfɪtəd/

being the right size and shape to fit as desired

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

foiblesnounUS /ˈfɔɪbəlz/

plural of “foible” — a behavioral attribute that is distinctive and peculiar to an individual

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

friendsnounUS /frendz/

plural of “friend” — a person you know well and regard with affection and trust

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

fromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

gentlemannounUS /ˈdʒentəlmən/

a man of refinement

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

goodadjectiveUS /ɡʊd/

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

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

good-naturedadjective

having an easygoing and cheerful disposition

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

grovellingadjective

totally submissive

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/

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

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

hasauxiliary verbUS /hæz/

the form of “have” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

hepronounUS /hiː/

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

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

heartnounUS /hɑːrt/

the locus of feelings and intuitions

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

heathennounUS /ˈhiːðən/

a person who does not acknowledge your god

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

heavennounUS /ˈhevən/

any place of complete bliss and delight and peace

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

highwaynounUS /ˈhaɪweɪ/

a major road for any form of motor transport

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

himpronounUS /hɪm/

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

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

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

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

huenounUS /hjuː/

the quality of a color as determined by its dominant wavelength

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

humblingadjectiveUS /ˈhʌmbəlɪŋ/

causing awareness of your shortcomings

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

ifconjunctionUS /ɪf/

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

infirmitiesnounUS /ɪnˈfɜːrmɪtiz/

plural of “infirmity” — the state of being weak in health or body (especially from old age)

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

iniquitynounUS /ˌɪˈnɪkwɪti/

morally objectionable behavior

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

inspectionnounUS /ˌɪnˈspekʃən/

a formal or official examination

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

InterestnounUS /ˈɪntrəst/

a sense of concern with and curiosity about someone or something

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/

moving to the inside of something

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

invitinglyadverb

in a tantalizing manner

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/

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

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

itpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

kindlyadjectiveUS /ˈkaɪndli/

showing or motivated by sympathy and understanding and generosity

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

knifenounUS /naɪf/

edge tool used as a cutting instrument; has a pointed blade with a sharp edge and a handle

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

lamentverbUS /ləˈment/

express grief verbally

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

leadingadjectiveUS /ˈliːdɪŋ/

indicating the most important performer or role

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

lednounUS /led/

diode such that light emitted at a p-n junction is proportional to the bias current; color depends on the material used

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

leisurenounUS /ˈleʒər/

time available for ease and relaxation

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

liesnounUS /laɪz/

plural of “lie” — a statement that deviates from or perverts the truth

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

loopholesnounUS /ˈluːphoʊlz/

plural of “loophole” — an ambiguity (especially one in the text of a law or contract) that makes it possible to evade a difficulty or obligation

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

mannounUS /mæn/

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

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

man'snounUS /mænz/

possessive form of “man” — an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

mankindnounUS /ˈmænˈkaɪnd/

all of the living human inhabitants of the earth

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

manyadjectiveUS /ˈmeni/

a quantifier that can be used with count nouns and is often preceded by “as” or “too” or “so” or “that”; amounting to a large but indefinite number

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

marvellousadjectiveUS /ˈmɑːrvələs/

extraordinarily good or great; used especially as intensifiers

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

maymodal verbUS /meɪ/

used to say something is possible, or to give permission

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

mereadjectiveUS /mɪr/

being nothing more than specified

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

metaphysician

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

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

mightmodal verbUS /maɪt/

used to say something is possible but not certain

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

miseriesnounUS /ˈmɪzəriz/

plural of “misery” — a state of ill-being due to affliction or misfortune

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

moralistsnounUS /ˈmɔːrəlɪsts/

plural of “moralist” — a philosopher who specializes in morals and moral problems

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

moreadjectiveUS /mɔːr/

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

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

mostadverbUS /moʊst/

used to form the superlative

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

nearadverbUS /nɪr/

near in time or place or relationship

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

neighboursnounUS /ˈneɪbərz/

plural of “neighbour” — a person who lives (or is located) near another

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

NotadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

nothingpronounUS /ˈnʌθɪŋ/

not one thing; not anything

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

oldadjectiveUS /oʊld/

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

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

onprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

onepronounUS /wʌn/

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

openverbUS /ˈoʊ.pən/

To move from a closed position.

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

ownverbUS /oʊn/

have ownership or possession of

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

passionsnounUS /ˈpæʃənz/

plural of “passion” — a strong feeling or emotion

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

pavedadjectiveUS /peɪvd/

covered with a firm surface

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

peacenounUS /piːs/

the state prevailing during the absence of war

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

peepverbUS /piːp/

look furtively

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

perhapsadverbUS /pərˈhæps/

by chance

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

phrasenounUS /freɪz/

an expression consisting of one or more words forming a grammatical constituent of a sentence

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

principlesnounUS /ˈprɪnsəpəlz/

plural of “principle” — a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

privateadjectiveUS /ˈpraɪvət/

confined to particular persons or groups or providing privacy

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

rationaladjectiveUS /ˈræʃ.ən.əl/

Based on or in accordance with reason or logic rather than turbulent emotions.

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

reasonnounUS /ˈriːzən/

a rational motive for a belief or action

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

regretverbUS /rəˈɡret/

feel remorse for; feel sorry for; be contrite about

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

robbernounUS /ˈrɑːbər/

a thief who steals from someone by threatening violence

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

satchelnoun

luggage consisting of a small case with a flat bottom and (usually) a shoulder strap

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

satisfiedadjectiveUS /ˈsætəsfaɪd/

filled with satisfaction

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

satisfyverbUS /ˈsætəsfaɪ/

meet the requirements or expectations of

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

secretnounUS /ˈsiː.krət/

Something that is kept or meant to be kept unknown or unseen by others.

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

secretsnounUS /ˈsiːkrəts/

plural of “secret” — something that should remain hidden from others (especially information that is not to be passed on)

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

Shakespeare'snounUS /ˈʃeɪkspiːrz/

possessive form of “shakespeare” — English poet and dramatist considered one of the greatest English writers (1564-1616)

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

slayernounUS /ˈsleɪər/

someone who causes the death of a person or animal

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

smooth-facedadjective

lacking hair on the face

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

soconjunctionUS /soʊ/

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

someadjectiveUS /sʌm/

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

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

somethingpronounUS /ˈsʌmθɪŋ/

a thing, without saying which

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

sometimesadverbUS /səmˈtaɪmz/

on certain occasions or in certain cases but not always

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

spectaclenounUS /ˈspektəkəl/

something or someone seen (especially a notable or unusual sight)

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

spiritnounUS /ˈspɪrət/

the vital principle or animating force within living things

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

startlingadjectiveUS /ˈstɑːrtlɪŋ/

so remarkably different or sudden as to cause momentary shock or alarm

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

sublimer

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

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

suchdeterminerUS /sʌtʃ/

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

surgeon'snounUS /ˈsɜːrdʒənz/

possessive form of “surgeon” — a physician who specializes in surgery

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

surveynounUS /sərˈveɪ/

a detailed critical inspection

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

takingnounUS /ˈteɪkɪŋ/

the act of someone who picks up or takes something

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

thanconjunctionUS /ðæn/

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

theirdeterminerUS /ðer/

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

themselvespronounUS /ðemˈselvz/

used when the people doing the action are also its object

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

thereadverbUS /ðer/

in or at that place or location

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

theypronounUS /ðeɪ/

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

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

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

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

thoughconjunctionUS /ðoʊ/

in spite of the fact that

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

thoughtsnounUS /θɔːts/

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

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

throughprepositionUS /θruː/

from one end or side of something to the other

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

thusadverbUS /ðʌs/

(used to introduce a logical conclusion) from that fact or reason or as a result

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

tonesnounUS /toʊnz/

plural of “tone” — the quality of a person's voice

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

trueadjectiveUS /truː/

consistent with fact or reality; not false

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

upliftverbUS /ˈʌplɪft/

fill with high spirits; fill with optimism

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

uponprepositionUS /əˈpɑːn/

a formal word for “on”

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

uspronounUS /ʌs/

the speaker and others, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

vanitynounUS /ˈvænəti/

feelings of excessive pride

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

veryadjectiveUS /ˈveri/

precisely as stated

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

vicesnounUS /ˈvaɪsəz/

plural of “vice” — moral weakness

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

villainnounUS /ˈvɪlən/

a wicked or evil person; someone who does evil deliberately

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

villany

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

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

virtuesnounUS /ˈvɜːrtʃuːz/

plural of “virtue” — the quality of doing what is right and avoiding what is wrong

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

whatpronounUS /wʌt/

used to ask for information about something

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading According to the apologue, every man carries on his back a satchel, in which are deposited his infirmities and vices, and which, though thus concealed from his own eyes, lies very invitingly open to the inspection of his friends.

whopronounUS /huː/

which person or people

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

whosedeterminerUS /huːz/

belonging to which person

From this reading If the mere grovelling villain,--the robber, assassin, or slayer of man's peace,--can find some such spectacle near to his heart as the surgeon's knife exposes in the breast of a cankered corse, what may _he_ detect, whose sublimer villany has led, or is leading him, to distinction, upon a highway paved with the miseries of mankind?

willmodal verbUS /wɪl/

used to talk about the future, or about willingness

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

willingadjectiveUS /ˈwɪlɪŋ/

disposed or inclined toward

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

windowsnounUS /ˈwɪndoʊz/

(trademark) an operating system with a graphical user interface

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

workingsnounUS /ˈwɜːrkɪŋz/

the internal mechanism of a device

From this reading This regret may be avoided by all who are willing to satisfy curiosity at their own expense; for heaven has fitted most bosoms with private loopholes, through which each man may survey at his leisure the workings of his own spirit.

worksnounUS /wɜːrks/

buildings for carrying on industrial labor

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

worldly-wisdom

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

From this reading A peep through the secret casement will disclose something startling, if not humbling, to many, who, in the vanity of good works, are disposed to uplift themselves above their fellows;--such, perhaps, as rational principles, and even kindly feelings, taking their hue from 'that smooth-faced gentleman,'--that biassing spirit which is more comprehensively expressed in Shakespeare's phrase of _Commodity_ than in the more familiar one of Interest; for it is true of us all, that virtues are sometimes nothing but passions in disguise, and that reason has a marvellous facility in acquiring the tones of worldly-wisdom.

wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/

used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past

From this reading Not satisfied with this exposure of foibles, there are some good-natured moralists, who would dive deeper into the secrets of their neighbours, and who lament, with the old heathen metaphysician, that heaven had not clapped windows into their breasts, so that they might detect even the iniquity of thoughts.

Chapter 8 of The Infidel by Robert Montgomery Bird holds 207 sentences, grouped into 42 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 8 of The Infidel contain?

Chapter 8 holds 207 sentences of The Infidel, unabridged, divided into 42 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 8 of The Infidel by Robert Montgomery Bird exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 207 sentences, grouped into 42 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 8 of The Infidel?

Work through the 42 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 42 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 8 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 8 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 Infidel

Common questions about reading The Infidel by Robert Montgomery Bird on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of The Infidel?

Yes. All 2710 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #34529 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of The Infidel is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #34529, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does The Infidel take to read?

About 225 minutes of reading across 542 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read The Infidel section by section

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

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 21 chapters of The Infidel 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 Infidel

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

Traveller
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Infidel; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Wanders
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Infidel; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Present
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Infidel; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Along
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Infidel; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.