Chapter VII

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

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

(usually followed by “to”) having the necessary means or skill or know-how or authority to do something

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

liable to account for one's actions

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

king of Wessex; defeated the Vikings and encouraged writing in English (849-899)

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

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

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

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

From this reading Foil and Counterfoil.

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

From this reading But an author, even of a modest performance such as this, cannot but feel himself in a position of grave responsibility.

writes (books or stories or articles or the like) professionally (for pay)

From this reading But an author, even of a modest performance such as this, cannot but feel himself in a position of grave responsibility.

possessive form of “author” — writes (books or stories or articles or the like) professionally (for pay)

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

the act of creating written works

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

(sometimes followed by “of”) having or showing knowledge or understanding or realization or perception

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

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

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

the past participle of “be”

From this reading He must relate such facts as he has been able to collect, without suppression on the one side, or distortion on the other.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading But an author, even of a modest performance such as this, cannot but feel himself in a position of grave responsibility.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

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

From this reading But an author, even of a modest performance such as this, cannot but feel himself in a position of grave responsibility.

get or gather together

From this reading He must relate such facts as he has been able to collect, without suppression on the one side, or distortion on the other.

freedom from doubt; belief in yourself and your abilities

From this reading It is a duty he cannot and dare not evade, under penalty of forfeiting the confidence of his readers.

without stop or interruption

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

the part of a check that is retained as a record

From this reading Foil and Counterfoil.

an unstable situation of extreme danger or difficulty

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

take upon oneself; act presumptuously, without permission

From this reading It is a duty he cannot and dare not evade, under penalty of forfeiting the confidence of his readers.

a variation that deviates from the standard or norm

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

your usual mood

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

a change for the worse

From this reading He must relate such facts as he has been able to collect, without suppression on the one side, or distortion on the other.

of concern to or concerning the internal affairs of a nation

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

plural of “duty” — the social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

the social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force

From this reading It is a duty he cannot and dare not evade, under penalty of forfeiting the confidence of his readers.

a phenomenon that follows and is caused by some previous phenomenon

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

to a distinctly greater extent or degree than is common

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

avoid or try to avoid fulfilling, answering, or performing (duties, questions, or issues)

From this reading It is a duty he cannot and dare not evade, under penalty of forfeiting the confidence of his readers.

divisible by two

From this reading But an author, even of a modest performance such as this, cannot but feel himself in a position of grave responsibility.

plural of “fact” — a piece of information about circumstances that exist or events that have occurred

From this reading He must relate such facts as he has been able to collect, without suppression on the one side, or distortion on the other.

undergo an emotional sensation or be in a particular state of mind

From this reading But an author, even of a modest performance such as this, cannot but feel himself in a position of grave responsibility.

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

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

enhance by contrast

From this reading Foil and Counterfoil.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

-ing form of “forfeit” — lose (s.th.) or lose the right to (s.th.) by some error, offense, or crime

From this reading It is a duty he cannot and dare not evade, under penalty of forfeiting the confidence of his readers.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

death of a person

From this reading But an author, even of a modest performance such as this, cannot but feel himself in a position of grave responsibility.

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

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

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

From this reading He must relate such facts as he has been able to collect, without suppression on the one side, or distortion on the other.

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

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

occupied or in the control of; often used in combination

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

possessive form of “hero” — a man distinguished by exceptional courage and nobility and strength

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

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

From this reading But an author, even of a modest performance such as this, cannot but feel himself in a position of grave responsibility.

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

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

conforming to an ultimate standard of perfection or excellence; embodying an ideal

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

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

From this reading But an author, even of a modest performance such as this, cannot but feel himself in a position of grave responsibility.

angered at something unjust or wrong

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

discontinued temporarily

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

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

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

up to the immediate present; most recent or most up-to-date

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

marked by simplicity; having a humble opinion of yourself

From this reading But an author, even of a modest performance such as this, cannot but feel himself in a position of grave responsibility.

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

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

used to say something is necessary, or almost certainly true

From this reading He must relate such facts as he has been able to collect, without suppression on the one side, or distortion on the other.

make or become more narrow or restricted

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading It is a duty he cannot and dare not evade, under penalty of forfeiting the confidence of his readers.

a brief written record

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading He must relate such facts as he has been able to collect, without suppression on the one side, or distortion on the other.

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading He must relate such facts as he has been able to collect, without suppression on the one side, or distortion on the other.

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading He must relate such facts as he has been able to collect, without suppression on the one side, or distortion on the other.

something determined in relation to something that includes it

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

a course of conduct

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

the act of punishing

From this reading It is a duty he cannot and dare not evade, under penalty of forfeiting the confidence of his readers.

a dramatic or musical entertainment

From this reading But an author, even of a modest performance such as this, cannot but feel himself in a position of grave responsibility.

continuing or enduring without marked change in status or condition or place

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

deliberate and stubborn unruliness and resistance to guidance or discipline

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

disciple of Jesus and leader of the Apostles; regarded by Catholics as the vicar of Christ on earth and first Pope

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

possessive form of “peter” — disciple of Jesus and leader of the Apostles; regarded by Catholics as the vicar of Christ on earth and first Pope

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

the particular portion of space occupied by something

From this reading But an author, even of a modest performance such as this, cannot but feel himself in a position of grave responsibility.

people in general considered as a whole

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

on the contrary

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

plural of “reader” — a person who enjoys reading

From this reading It is a duty he cannot and dare not evade, under penalty of forfeiting the confidence of his readers.

anything (such as a document or a phonograph record or a photograph) providing permanent evidence of or information about past events

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

righteousness as a consequence of being honorable and honest

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

make a logical or causal connection

From this reading He must relate such facts as he has been able to collect, without suppression on the one side, or distortion on the other.

the social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force

From this reading But an author, even of a modest performance such as this, cannot but feel himself in a position of grave responsibility.

plural of “result” — a phenomenon that follows and is caused by some previous phenomenon

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

giving satisfaction

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

characterized by insincerity or deceit; evasive

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

a place within a region identified relative to a center or reference location

From this reading He must relate such facts as he has been able to collect, without suppression on the one side, or distortion on the other.

superlative of “slight” — (quantifier used with mass nouns) small in quantity or degree; not much or almost none or (with “a”) at least some

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading But an author, even of a modest performance such as this, cannot but feel himself in a position of grave responsibility.

the failure to develop some part or organ

From this reading He must relate such facts as he has been able to collect, without suppression on the one side, or distortion on the other.

the astonishment you feel when something totally unexpected happens to you

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

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

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

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

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

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

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

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

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

very sad; especially involving grief or death or destruction

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

below or beneath something; less than

From this reading It is a duty he cannot and dare not evade, under penalty of forfeiting the confidence of his readers.

not anticipated

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

a formal word for “on”

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

a message informing of danger

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

at the time that

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

used to talk about the future, or about willingness

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.

not having, not using, or not accompanied by

From this reading He must relate such facts as he has been able to collect, without suppression on the one side, or distortion on the other.

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

From this reading _The Duties of Authorship.--Peter's Continued Perversity and its Unforeseen Results.--"Alfred."--The Tragic Note.--An Interrupted Crisis.--A Domestic Surprise._ It would be more satisfactory to an author's feelings, especially when he is aware that he will be held accountable by an indignant public for the slightest deviation on his hero's part from the narrow path of ideal rectitude--it would be more satisfactory to be able to record that this latest warning had a permanent effect upon Peter Tourmalin's rather shifty disposition.