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The Three Partners
The Three Partners

Chapter III

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Context Illustration Reading 1/56 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.
It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.
He would like to have returned and condoled with him.
The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.
Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

The Three Partners

Chapter III

Reading 1/56 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.
Line 2
It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.
Line 3
He would like to have returned and condoled with him.
Line 4
The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.
Line 5
Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

Learner Dictionary

Oxford-style entry order: headword, part of speech, US IPA, concise definition, contextual example, audio, and collocations from this reading.

After preposition US /ˈæftər/

later than; following

From this reading “The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.”

Again noun US /again/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.”

Been auxiliary verb US /bɪn/

the past participle of “be”

From this reading “It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.”

Before preposition US /bɪˈfɔːr/

earlier than; in front of

From this reading “The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.”

Behind preposition US /bɪˈhaɪnd/

at or toward the back of something

From this reading “When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.”

Even noun US /even/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.”

Have auxiliary verb US /hæv/

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading “It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.”

Meanwhile noun US /ˈmeanwhile/

a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage

From this reading “Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.”

Might modal verb US /maɪt/

used to say something is possible but not certain

From this reading “It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.”

Over preposition US /ˈoʊvər/

above and across; more than

From this reading “Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.”

Part noun US /part/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.”

Passed noun US /passed/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.”

Returned noun US /ˈreturned/

a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage

From this reading “When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.”

These determiner US /ðiːz/

the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned

From this reading “It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.”

Through noun US /ˈthrough/

a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage

From this reading “Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.”

Until preposition US /ənˈtɪl/

up to a particular time

From this reading “The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.”

Would modal verb US /wʊd/

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

From this reading “It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.”

All words in this reading · 140

Every word is available to listen to. 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 When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

abstraction

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

affected

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

afterprepositionUS /ˈæftər/

later than; following

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

againnounUS /again/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

andeterminerUS /æn/

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

anxious

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

any

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

appeal

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

back

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

Barker

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

bearing

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/

the past participle of “be”

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

beforeprepositionUS /bɪˈfɔːr/

earlier than; in front of

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

behindprepositionUS /bɪˈhaɪnd/

at or toward the back of something

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

blowy

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

bothdeterminerUS /boʊθ/

the two together, not just one

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

brass

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

brief

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

chief

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

chucked

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

clerks

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

comrade

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

condoled

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

From this reading He would like to have returned and condoled with him.

conviction

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

counters

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

curving

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

defended

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

defenses

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

doors

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

evennounUS /even/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

exasperating

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

eyes

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

familiar

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

financial

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

forced

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

fresh

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

further

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

George

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

go

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

hepronounUS /hiː/

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

heartlessly

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

hesitated

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

hesitation

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

himpronounUS /hɪm/

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

From this reading He would like to have returned and condoled with him.

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

idea

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

impertinences

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

impressed

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

inclination

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

indifference

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

ingenuous

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

interviews

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/

moving to the inside of something

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

ItpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

itsdeterminerUS /ɪts/

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

just

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

kindly

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

like

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

From this reading He would like to have returned and condoled with him.

mahogany

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

making

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

man

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

manner

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

MeanwhilenounUS /ˈmeanwhile/

a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

measure

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

men

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

met

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

mightmodal verbUS /maɪt/

used to say something is possible but not certain

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

moment

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

more

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

natural

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

nature

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

nodeterminerUS /noʊ/

not any; not one

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

odd

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

old

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

other

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

others

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

out

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

outer

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

overprepositionUS /ˈoʊvər/

above and across; more than

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

panoplied

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

partnounUS /part/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

passednounUS /passed/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

penetrated

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

position

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

puzzled

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

quality

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

quitted

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

railings

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

returnednounUS /ˈreturned/

a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

screens

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

selfish

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

sense

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

small

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

smiled

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

sought

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

spruce

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

stranger

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

street

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

stronghold

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

studied

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

sublime

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

superior

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

sweep

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

swinging

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

thanconjunctionUS /ðæn/

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

theirdeterminerUS /ðer/

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

thempronounUS /ðem/

the people or things already mentioned, as the object

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

thesedeterminerUS /ðiːz/

the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

theypronounUS /ðeɪ/

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

throughnounUS /ˈthrough/

a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

tolerant

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

unconcernedly

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

unfair

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

untilprepositionUS /ənˈtɪl/

up to a particular time

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

ward

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

whatpronounUS /wʌt/

used to ask for information about something

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

WhenconjunctionUS /wen/

at the time that

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading Meanwhile Barker, who had that sublime, natural quality of abstraction over small impertinences which is more exasperating than studied indifference, after his brief hesitation passed out unconcernedly through the swinging mahogany doors into the blowy street.

whispered

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.

whopronounUS /huː/

which person or people

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

wirework

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

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading When George Barker returned to the outer ward of the financial stronghold he had penetrated, with its curving sweep of counters, brass railings, and wirework screens defended by the spruce clerks behind them, he was again impressed with the position of the man he had just quitted, and for a moment hesitated, with an inclination to go back.

wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/

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

From this reading It was with no idea of making a further appeal to his old comrade, but--what would have been odd in any other nature but his--he was affected by a sense that HE might have been unfair and selfish in his manner to the man panoplied by these defenses, and who was in a measure forced to be a part of them.

young

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

From this reading The clerks, who were heartlessly familiar with the anxious bearing of the men who sought interviews with their chief, both before and after, smiled with the whispered conviction that the fresh and ingenuous young stranger had been “chucked” like others until they met his kindly, tolerant, and even superior eyes, and were puzzled.