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The Lighthouse
The Lighthouse

Chapter II · Chapter 2

Chapter 2 of The Lighthouse is here in full — 70 sentences across 14 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Cover illustration for The Lighthouse
Context Illustration Reading 1/14 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.
He directed his steps to one of the streets near the harbour, in which his mother's cottage was situated.
Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.
She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.
Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.
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AI-generated narration by OpenAI · Slow US English
LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

The Lighthouse

Chapter II · Chapter 2

Chapter 2 of The Lighthouse is here in full — 70 sentences across 14 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

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

Line 1
OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.
Line 2
He directed his steps to one of the streets near the harbour, in which his mother's cottage was situated.
/hiː dərˈektəd hɪz steps tuː wʌn ʌv ðə striːts nɪr ðə ˈhɑːrbər ɪn wɪtʃ hɪz ˈmʌðərz ˈkɑːtədʒ wɑːz ˈsɪtʃuːeɪtɪd/
Line 3
Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.
Line 4
She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.
Line 5
Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

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.

Brand noun US /brænd/

a name given to a product or service

From this reading “OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.”

obedient adjective US /oʊˈbiːdiənt/

dutifully complying with the commands or instructions of those in authority

From this reading “She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.”

outskirts noun US /ˈaʊtskɜːrts/

outlying areas (as of a city or town)

From this reading “OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.”

popularity noun US /ˌpɑːpjəˈlerəti/

the quality of being widely admired or accepted or sought after

From this reading “She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.”

Ruby noun US /ˈruːbi/

a transparent piece of ruby that has been cut and polished and is valued as a precious gem

From this reading “OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.”

stalwart adjective US /ˈstɔːlwərt/

having rugged physical strength; inured to fatigue or hardships

From this reading “Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.”

steadfast adjective US /ˈstedfæst/

marked by firm determination or resolution; not shakable

From this reading “She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.”

whistling noun US /ˈwɪslɪŋ/

the sound made by something moving rapidly or by steam coming out of a small aperture

From this reading “OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.”

All words in this reading · 118

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 Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

admirationnounUS /ˌædmərˈeɪʃən/

a feeling of delighted approval and liking

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

alsoadverbUS /ˈɔːlsoʊ/

in addition

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

andeterminerUS /æn/

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

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

Arbroath

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

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

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

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

beingsnounUS /ˈbiːɪŋz/

plural of “being” — the state or fact of existing

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

BiblenounUS /ˈbaɪbəl/

the sacred writings of the Christian religions

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

booknounUS /bʊk/

a written work or composition that has been published (printed on pages bound together)

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

BrandnounUS /brænd/

a name given to a product or service

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

checkedadjectiveUS /tʃekt/

patterned with alternating squares of color

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

childrennounUS /ˈtʃɪldrən/

plural of “child” — a young person of either sex

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

cottagenounUS /ˈkɑːtədʒ/

a small house with a single story

From this reading He directed his steps to one of the streets near the harbour, in which his mother's cottage was situated.

couldmodal verbUS /kʊd/

the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

createdverbUS /kriˈeɪtəd/

past form of “create” — make or cause to be or to become

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

delicateadjectiveUS /ˈdeləkət/

exquisitely fine and subtle and pleasing; susceptible to injury

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

directedadjectiveUS /dərˈektəd/

(often used in combination) having a specified direction

From this reading He directed his steps to one of the streets near the harbour, in which his mother's cottage was situated.

doauxiliary verbUS /duː/

used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

drinkingnounUS /ˈdrɪŋkɪŋ/

the act of consuming liquids

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

earthlyadjectiveUS /ˈɜːrθli/

of or belonging to or characteristic of this earth as distinguished from heaven

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

eveningnounUS /ˈiːvnɪŋ/

the latter part of the day (the period of decreasing daylight from late afternoon until nightfall)

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

favouritenounUS /ˈfeɪvərɪt/

a competitor thought likely to win

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

fightingnounUS /ˈfaɪtɪŋ/

the act of fighting; any contest or struggle

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

friendsnounUS /frendz/

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

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

fromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

gentleadjectiveUS /ˈdʒentəl/

soft and mild; not harsh or stern or severe

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

gentlyadverbUS /ˈdʒentli/

in a gradual manner

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

giveverbUS /ɡɪv/

cause to have, in the abstract sense or physical sense

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

GOverbUS /ɡoʊ/

change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/

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

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

handsnounUS /hændz/

(with “in”) guardianship over; in divorce cases it is the right to house and care for and discipline a child

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

harbourverbUS /ˈhɑːrbər/

secretly shelter (as of fugitives or criminals)

From this reading He directed his steps to one of the streets near the harbour, in which his mother's cottage was situated.

hepronounUS /hiː/

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

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

HerdeterminerUS /hɜːr/

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

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

HEROnounUS /ˈhɪroʊ/

a man distinguished by exceptional courage and nobility and strength

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

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

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

hopenounUS /hoʊp/

a specific instance of feeling hopeful

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

how

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

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/

moving to the inside of something

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

itpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

justadverbUS /dʒʌst/

and nothing more

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

kindadjectiveUS /kaɪnd/

having or showing a tender and considerate and helpful nature; used especially of persons and their behavior

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

littleadjectiveUS /ˈlɪtəl/

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

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

liveverbUS /laɪv/

be an inhabitant of or reside in

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

lovingadjectiveUS /ˈlʌvɪŋ/

feeling or showing love and affection

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

mannounUS /mæn/

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

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

mattersnounUS /ˈmætərz/

plural of “matter” — a vaguely specified concern

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

mealnounUS /miːl/

the food served and eaten at one time

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

mennounUS /men/

the force of workers available

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

mothernounUS /ˈmʌðər/

a woman who has given birth to a child (also used as a term of address to your mother)

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

mother'snounUS /ˈmʌðərz/

possessive form of “mother” — a woman who has given birth to a child (also used as a term of address to your mother)

From this reading He directed his steps to one of the streets near the harbour, in which his mother's cottage was situated.

MrsnounUS /ˈmɪsɪz/

a form of address for a married woman

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

muchadverbUS /mʌtʃ/

to a great degree or extent

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

nativeadjectiveUS /ˈneɪtɪv/

characteristic of or existing by virtue of geographic origin

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

nearadverbUS /nɪr/

near in time or place or relationship

From this reading He directed his steps to one of the streets near the harbour, in which his mother's cottage was situated.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

obedientadjectiveUS /oʊˈbiːdiənt/

dutifully complying with the commands or instructions of those in authority

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

objectnounUS /ˈɑːbdʒekt/

a tangible and visible entity; an entity that can cast a shadow

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

OBLIGEDadjectiveUS /əˈblaɪdʒd/

under a moral obligation to do something

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

oldadjectiveUS /oʊld/

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

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

onepronounUS /wʌn/

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading He directed his steps to one of the streets near the harbour, in which his mother's cottage was situated.

orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

OURdeterminerUS /ˈaʊər/

belonging to the speaker and others

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

outskirtsnounUS /ˈaʊtskɜːrts/

outlying areas (as of a city or town)

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

peacenounUS /piːs/

the state prevailing during the absence of war

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

peoplenounUS /ˈpiːpəl/

(plural) any group of human beings (men or women or children) collectively

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

pocketsnounUS /ˈpɑːkəts/

plural of “pocket” — a small pouch inside a garment for carrying small articles

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

popularitynounUS /ˌpɑːpjəˈlerəti/

the quality of being widely admired or accepted or sought after

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

possibleadjectiveUS /ˈpɑːsəbəl/

capable of happening or existing

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

reachedverbUS /riːtʃt/

past form of “reach” — reach a destination, either real or abstract

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

regardnounUS /rɪˈɡɑːrd/

(usually preceded by “in”) a detail or point

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

returnedverbUS /rɪˈtɜːrnd/

past form of “return” — go or come back to place, condition, or activity where one has been before

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

RubynounUS /ˈruːbi/

a transparent piece of ruby that has been cut and polished and is valued as a precious gem

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

SEAnounUS /siː/

a division of an ocean or a large body of salt water partially enclosed by land

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

secureverbUS /sɪˈkjʊr/

get by special effort

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

shepronounUS /ʃiː/

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

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

shouldmodal verbUS /ʃʊd/

used to say what is right, expected, or advisable

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

situatedadjectiveUS /ˈsɪtʃuːeɪtɪd/

situated in a particular spot or position

From this reading He directed his steps to one of the streets near the harbour, in which his mother's cottage was situated.

soconjunctionUS /soʊ/

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

sometimesadverbUS /səmˈtaɪmz/

on certain occasions or in certain cases but not always

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

sonnounUS /sʌn/

a male human offspring

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

speedverbUS /spiːd/

move hurridly

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

stalwartadjectiveUS /ˈstɔːlwərt/

having rugged physical strength; inured to fatigue or hardships

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

steadfastadjectiveUS /ˈstedfæst/

marked by firm determination or resolution; not shakable

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

stepsnounUS /steps/

a flight of stairs or a flight of steps

From this reading He directed his steps to one of the streets near the harbour, in which his mother's cottage was situated.

streetsnounUS /striːts/

plural of “street” — a thoroughfare (usually including sidewalks) that is lined with buildings

From this reading He directed his steps to one of the streets near the harbour, in which his mother's cottage was situated.

studynounUS /ˈstʌdi/

a detailed critical inspection

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

suchdeterminerUS /sʌtʃ/

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

teanounUS /tiː/

a beverage made by steeping tea leaves in water

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

theorynounUS /ˈθɪri/

a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world; an organized system of accepted knowledge that applies in a variety of circumstances to explain a specific set of phenomena

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

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

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

thosedeterminerUS /ðoʊz/

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

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

thoughconjunctionUS /ðoʊ/

in spite of the fact that

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

TOparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

townnounUS /taʊn/

an urban area with a fixed boundary that is smaller than a city

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

truthnounUS /truːθ/

a fact that has been verified

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

uncomplainingadjective

not complaining

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

unselfishadjective

disregarding your own advantages and welfare over those of others

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

upadjectiveUS /ʌp/

being or moving higher in position or greater in some value; being above a former position or level

From this reading Her favourite book was the Bible; her favourite hope in regard to earthly matters, that men should give up fighting and drinking, and live in peace; her favourite theory that the study of _truth_ was the object for which man was created, and her favourite meal--tea.

walknounUS /wɔːk/

the act of traveling by foot

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

walkedverbUS /wɔːkt/

past form of “walk” — use one's feet to advance; advance by steps

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading He directed his steps to one of the streets near the harbour, in which his mother's cottage was situated.

WhenconjunctionUS /wen/

at the time that

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading He directed his steps to one of the streets near the harbour, in which his mother's cottage was situated.

whistlingnounUS /ˈwɪslɪŋ/

the sound made by something moving rapidly or by steam coming out of a small aperture

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

whopronounUS /huː/

which person or people

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading OUR HERO OBLIGED TO GO TO SEA When Ruby Brand reached the outskirts of Arbroath, he checked his speed and walked into his native town whistling gently, and with his hands in his pockets, as though he had just returned from an evening walk.

womannounUS /ˈwʊmən/

an adult female person (as opposed to a man)

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

wonderedverbUS /ˈwʌndərd/

past form of “wonder” — have a wish or desire to know something

From this reading Mrs. Brand was a delicate, little old woman--so little and so old that people sometimes wondered how it was possible that she could be the mother of such a stalwart son.

worldnounUS /wɜːrld/

everything that exists anywhere

From this reading She was one of those kind, gentle, uncomplaining, and unselfish beings, who do not secure much popularity or admiration in this world, but who secure obedient children, also steadfast and loving friends.

Chapter 2 of The Lighthouse by R. M. (Robert Michael) Ballantyne holds 70 sentences, grouped into 14 reading sections of at most 5 sentences. The text is the source edition, unabridged, and the chapter records which sentences cover which part of the work so that nothing is dropped. Every word can be tapped for its pronunciation and dictionary entry.

What does chapter 2 of The Lighthouse contain?

Chapter 2 holds 70 sentences of The Lighthouse, unabridged, divided into 14 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 2 of The Lighthouse by R. M. (Robert Michael) Ballantyne exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 70 sentences, grouped into 14 sections of at most 5 sentences so that a reader can take the chapter in steady, finishable pieces. The chapter also stores a coverage record mapping every one of its sentences to a part of the work, which is how the edition demonstrates that no line was dropped.

How do I study chapter 2 of The Lighthouse?

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

Each of the 14 sections in this chapter is short enough to read once, hear once, and then re-read with the vocabulary in view. Tapping a word plays it alone and opens its dictionary entry with IPA, part of speech and meaning, so the reader is never forced to guess a pronunciation from spelling. Working section by section keeps a long chapter from becoming an undifferentiated wall of text, which is the usual reason a reader abandons a work of this period.

Can chapter 2 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 2 can be played aloud in United States English.

Audio covers the whole chapter: any sentence can be played, and any single word within it can be played on its own. The voice uses United States English. For a work of this period that matters, because spelling is an unreliable guide to pronunciation for vocabulary that has fallen out of daily use, and a learner who guesses wrong tends to keep the error. Hearing the word in its own sentence, and then alone, settles it.

Questions about reading The Lighthouse

Common questions about reading The Lighthouse by R. M. (Robert Michael) Ballantyne on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of The Lighthouse?

Yes. All 3699 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #15124 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of The Lighthouse is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #15124, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does The Lighthouse take to read?

About 308 minutes of reading across 740 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read The Lighthouse section by section

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

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 32 chapters of The Lighthouse 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 Lighthouse

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

Eastward
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Lighthouse; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Ancient
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Lighthouse; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Arbroath
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Lighthouse; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Shore
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Lighthouse; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.