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The Secret Witness
The Secret Witness

Chapter XXII · Chapter 22

Chapter 22 of The Secret Witness is here in full — 290 sentences across 58 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

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Context Illustration Reading 1/58 · 5 lines
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THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.
He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.
Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.
And Renwick would not have come to him now, had not his own need been great.
But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

The Secret Witness

Chapter XXII · Chapter 22

Chapter 22 of The Secret Witness is here in full — 290 sentences across 58 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/58 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.
Line 2
He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.
Line 3
Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.
Line 4
And Renwick would not have come to him now, had not his own need been great.
Line 5
But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

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.

abiding adjective US /əˈbaɪdɪŋ/

lasting a long time

From this reading “THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.”

chemist noun US /ˈkemɪst/

a scientist who specializes in chemistry

From this reading “THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.”

citizenship noun US /ˈsɪtɪzənʃɪp/

the status of a citizen with rights and duties

From this reading “THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.”

docile adjective US /ˈdɑːsəl/

willing to be taught or led or supervised or directed

From this reading “THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.”

haystack noun US /ˈheɪstæk/

a stack of hay

From this reading “THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.”

impeccable adjective US /ˌɪmˈpekəbəl/

without fault or error

From this reading “Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.”

metier noun US /ˈmetjər/

an asset of special worth or utility

From this reading “THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.”

pertaining verb US /pərˈteɪnɪŋ/

-ing form of “pertain” — be relevant to

From this reading “THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.”

All words in this reading · 133

Every word in these five lines is listed here, and every one of them can be played on its own.

Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.

adeterminerUS /ə/

used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

abidingadjectiveUS /əˈbaɪdɪŋ/

lasting a long time

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

adventuresnounUS /ædˈventʃərz/

plural of “adventure” — a wild and exciting undertaking (not necessarily lawful)

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

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 THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

andeterminerUS /æn/

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

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

AustriannounUS /ˈɔːstriən/

a native or inhabitant of Austria

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/

the past participle of “be”

From this reading And Renwick would not have come to him now, had not his own need been great.

beforeprepositionUS /bɪˈfɔːr/

earlier than; in front of

From this reading Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.

behalfnounUS /bɪˈhæf/

as the agent of or on someone's part (usually expressed as “on behalf of” rather than “in behalf of”)

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

birthnounUS /bɜːrθ/

the time when something begins (especially life)

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

BritishnounUS /ˈbrɪtɪʃ/

the people of Great Britain

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

cameverbUS /keɪm/

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

From this reading Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.

Carpathiansnoun

a mountain range in central Europe that extends from Slovakia and southern Poland southeastward through western Ukraine to northeastern Romania; a popular resort area

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

characternounUS /ˈkerɪktər/

an imaginary person represented in a work of fiction (play or film or story)

From this reading Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.

chemistnounUS /ˈkemɪst/

a scientist who specializes in chemistry

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

circumstancesnounUS /ˈsɜːrkəmstænsəz/

your overall circumstances or condition in life (including everything that happens to you)

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

citizenshipnounUS /ˈsɪtɪzənʃɪp/

the status of a citizen with rights and duties

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

comeverbUS /kʌm/

move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody

From this reading And Renwick would not have come to him now, had not his own need been great.

concealedadjectiveUS /kənˈsiːld/

not accessible to view

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

ConstantinenounUS /ˈkɑːnstəntiːn/

Emperor of Rome who stopped the persecution of Christians and in 324 made Christianity the official religion of the Roman Empire; in 330 he moved his capital from Rome to Byzantium and renamed it Constantinople (280-337)

From this reading Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.

counselnounUS /ˈkaʊnsəl/

a lawyer who pleads cases in court

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

dangernounUS /ˈdeɪndʒər/

the condition of being susceptible to harm or injury

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

dangersnounUS /ˈdeɪndʒərz/

plural of “danger” — the condition of being susceptible to harm or injury

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

docileadjectiveUS /ˈdɑːsəl/

willing to be taught or led or supervised or directed

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

doubtnounUS /daʊt/

the state of being unsure of something

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

dubiousadjectiveUS /ˈduːbiəs/

fraught with uncertainty or doubt

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

eitherdeterminerUS /ˈiːðər/

one or the other of two

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

EvenadjectiveUS /ˈiːvɪn/

divisible by two

From this reading Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.

excellentadjectiveUS /ˈeksələnt/

very good; of the highest quality

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

exteriornounUS /ɪkˈstɪriər/

the region that is outside of something

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

eyesnounUS /aɪz/

opinion or judgment

From this reading Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.

foundverbUS /faʊnd/

set up or found

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

fromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

gaveverbUS /ɡeɪv/

inflected form of “give” — cause to have, in the abstract sense or physical sense

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

governmentnounUS /ˈɡʌvərmənt/

the organization that is the governing authority of a political unit

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

greatadjectiveUS /ɡreɪt/

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

From this reading And Renwick would not have come to him now, had not his own need been great.

GreeknounUS /ɡriːk/

the Hellenic branch of the Indo-European family of languages

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/

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

From this reading Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.

haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading And Renwick would not have come to him now, had not his own need been great.

havingauxiliary verbUS /ˈhævɪŋ/

the -ing form of “have”

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

HAYSTACKnounUS /ˈheɪstæk/

a stack of hay

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

HepronounUS /hiː/

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

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

heardadjectiveUS /hɜːrd/

detected or perceived by the sense of hearing

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

HerrnounUS /her/

a German man; used before the name as a title equivalent to Mr in English

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

himpronounUS /hɪm/

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

From this reading And Renwick would not have come to him now, had not his own need been great.

himselfpronounUS /hɪmˈself/

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

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

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

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

homenounUS /hoʊm/

where you live at a particular time

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

hospitalitynounUS /ˌhɑːspəˈtæləti/

kindness in welcoming guests or strangers

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

hostnounUS /hoʊst/

a person who invites guests to a social event (such as a party in his or her own home) and who is responsible for them while they are there

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

HungarynounUS /ˈhʌŋɡəri/

a republic in central Europe

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

ifconjunctionUS /ɪf/

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.

impeccableadjectiveUS /ˌɪmˈpekəbəl/

without fault or error

From this reading Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.

INprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

inquirynounUS /ˌɪnˈkwaɪriː/

a search for knowledge

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

interestsnounUS /ˈɪntrəsts/

plural of “interest” — a sense of concern with and curiosity about someone or something

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/

moving to the inside of something

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

itsdeterminerUS /ɪts/

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

knewverbUS /nuː/

inflected form of “know” — be cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information; possess knowledge or information about

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

Koulas

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

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

Kronstadt

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

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

lawnounUS /lɔː/

the collection of rules imposed by authority

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

learnedadjectiveUS /lɜːrnd/

having or showing profound knowledge

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

leastadjectiveUS /liːst/

the superlative of “little” that can be used with mass nouns and is usually preceded by “the”; a quantifier meaning smallest in amount or extent or degree

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

leftnounUS /left/

location near or direction toward the left side; i.e. the side to the north when a person or object faces east

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

man'snounUS /mænz/

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

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

marverbUS /mɑːr/

make imperfect

From this reading Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.

mattersnounUS /ˈmætərz/

plural of “matter” — a vaguely specified concern

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

metverbUS /met/

inflected form of “meet” — come together

From this reading Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.

metiernounUS /ˈmetjər/

an asset of special worth or utility

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

militaryadjectiveUS /ˈmɪləteri/

of or relating to the study of the principles of warfare

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

mindnounUS /maɪnd/

The element of a person that enables awareness and thought.

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

missionnounUS /ˈmɪʃən/

an organization of missionaries in a foreign land sent to carry on religious work

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

mostadverbUS /moʊst/

used to form the superlative

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

neednounUS /niːd/

a condition requiring relief

From this reading And Renwick would not have come to him now, had not his own need been great.

NEEDLEnounUS /ˈniːdəl/

the leaf of a conifer

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

nodeterminerUS /noʊ/

not any; not one

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

northnounUS /nɔːrθ/

the region of the United States lying to the north of the Mason-Dixon line

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading And Renwick would not have come to him now, had not his own need been great.

nowadverbUS /naʊ/

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

From this reading And Renwick would not have come to him now, had not his own need been great.

obviousadjectiveUS /ˈɑːbviəs/

easily perceived by the senses or grasped by the mind

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

occupationnounUS /ˌɑːkjəˈpeɪʃən/

the principal activity in your life that you do to earn money

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

Odenburg

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

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

ownverbUS /oʊn/

have ownership or possession of

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

papersnounUS /ˈpeɪpərz/

writing that provides information (especially information of an official nature)

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

pertainingverbUS /pərˈteɪnɪŋ/

-ing form of “pertain” — be relevant to

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

pilgrimagenounUS /ˈpɪlɡrəmədʒ/

a journey to a sacred place

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

planverbUS /plæn/

have the will and intention to carry out some action

From this reading Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.

politicaladjectiveUS /pəˈlɪtəkəl/

involving or characteristic of politics or parties or politicians

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

presentverbUS /ˈprezənt/

give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

procureverbUS /proʊˈkjʊr/

get by special effort

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

pursuitnounUS /pərˈsuːt/

the act of pursuing in an effort to overtake or capture

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

realadjectiveUS /riːl/

being or occurring in fact or actuality; having verified existence; not illusory

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

reassuredadjectiveUS /ˌriːəˈʃʊrd/

having confidence restored; freed from anxiety

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

receivedadjectiveUS /rəˈsiːvd/

conforming to the established language usage of educated native speakers

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

Renwick

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

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

Renwick's

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

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

robverbUS /rɑːb/

take something away by force or without the consent of the owner

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

SaveprepositionUS /seɪv/

except for; apart from

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

secretnounUS /ˈsiː.krət/

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

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

setverbUS /set/

put into a certain place or abstract location

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

shouldmodal verbUS /ʃʊd/

used to say what is right, expected, or advisable

From this reading Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.

soconjunctionUS /soʊ/

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.

socialadjectiveUS /ˈsoʊʃəl/

relating to human society and its members

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

somewhatadverbUS /ˈsʌmˈwʌt/

to a small degree or extent

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

talenounUS /teɪl/

a message that tells the particulars of an act or occurrence or course of events; presented in writing or drama or cinema or as a radio or television program

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.

THEdeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

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

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

troublenounUS /ˈtrʌbəl/

a source of difficulty

From this reading Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.

underprepositionUS /ˈʌndər/

below or beneath something; less than

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

unselfishnessnoun

the quality of not putting yourself first but being willing to give your time or money or effort etc. for others

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

visitverbUS /ˈvɪzɪt/

go to see a place, as for entertainment

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

volunteeredverbUS /ˌvɑːlənˈtɪrd/

past form of “volunteer” — tell voluntarily

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

warnounUS /wɔːr/

the waging of armed conflict against an enemy

From this reading Even before the war Renwick and Constantine Koulas had met in secret, so that if trouble came no plan should mar the man's impeccable character in Austrian eyes.

warmthnounUS /wɔːrmθ/

the sensation caused by heat energy

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK Herr Koulas was by birth a Greek, by citizenship, an Austrian, and by occupation, a chemist; but his real metier, concealed under a most docile and law abiding exterior, was secret inquiry in behalf of the British government into all matters pertaining to its interests, either social, political, or military.

welcomeverbUS /ˈwelkəm/

accept gladly

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

whenconjunctionUS /wen/

at the time that

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

whileconjunctionUS /waɪl/

during the time that

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

willinglyadverbUS /ˈwɪlɪŋli/

in a willing manner

From this reading But Herr Koulas, having heard the tale of his adventures and reassured as to the present danger of pursuit, gave willingly of his hospitality and counsel, and when he learned the character of Renwick's mission, volunteered to procure him a set of papers which would rob his pilgrimage to the north, at least, of its most obvious dangers.

wisdomnounUS /ˈwɪzdəm/

accumulated knowledge or erudition or enlightenment

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading He knew his Hungary from Odenburg to Kronstadt, from the Save to the Carpathians, and Renwick, while somewhat dubious as to the wisdom of his visit under the circumstances, found himself received at this excellent man's home with a warmth of welcome which left no doubt in his own mind as to the unselfishness of his host.

wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/

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

From this reading And Renwick would not have come to him now, had not his own need been great.

Chapter 22 of The Secret Witness by George Gibbs holds 290 sentences, grouped into 58 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 22 of The Secret Witness contain?

Chapter 22 holds 290 sentences of The Secret Witness, unabridged, divided into 58 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 22 of The Secret Witness by George Gibbs exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 290 sentences, grouped into 58 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 22 of The Secret Witness?

Work through the 58 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 58 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 22 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 22 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 Secret Witness

Common questions about reading The Secret Witness by George Gibbs on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of The Secret Witness?

Yes. All 7220 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #25689 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of The Secret Witness is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #25689, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does The Secret Witness take to read?

About 600 minutes of reading across 1444 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read The Secret Witness section by section

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

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 27 chapters of The Secret Witness 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 Secret Witness

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

Countess
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Secret Witness; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Marishka
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Secret Witness; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Fleet
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Secret Witness; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Straight
A word that appears in the opening chapter of The Secret Witness; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.