Chapter XXIII

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

From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

A place of study or training in a special field of knowledge and arts.

From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.

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

From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.

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

From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.

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

From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

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

From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.

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

From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.

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

From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.

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

From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.

earlier than; in front of

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis

From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

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

From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

to or at a greater extent or degree or a more advanced stage (“further” is used more often than “farther” in this abstract sense)

From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.

used to add a contrasting statement

From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.

the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

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

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.

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

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

Clever, original, and remarkably inventive in design and execution.

From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

moving to the inside of something

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

the person speaking, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

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

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.

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

From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

not one thing; not anything

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

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

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

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

From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.

powers of perception and awareness

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

used with I and we for the future, or to offer and suggest

From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.

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

From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

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

From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

the people or things already mentioned, as the object

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.

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

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

a formal word for “on”

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.

Moral excellence and goodness of character; the highest human attainment in Stoic philosophy.

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading But, however, I shall so far do justice to this part of the academy, as to acknowledge that all of them were not so visionary.

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

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading A FURTHER ACCOUNT OF THE ACADEMY—THE AUTHOR PROPOSES SOME IMPROVEMENTS, WHICH ARE HONORABLY RECEIVED.

which person or people

From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.

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

From this reading There was a most ingenious doctor who seemed to be perfectly versed in the whole nature and system of government.

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

From this reading In the school of political projectors I was but ill entertained, the professors appearing to me wholly out of their senses, which is a scene that never fails to make me melancholy.

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

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

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”

in the company of; together with

From this reading These unhappy people were proposing schemes for persuading monarchs to choose favorites upon the score of their wisdom, capacity, and virtue; of teaching ministers to consult the public good; of rewarding merit, great abilities, and eminent services; of instructing princes to know their true interest by placing it on the same foundation with that of their people; of choosing for employments persons qualified to exercise them; with many other wild, impossible chimeras, that never entered before into the heart of man to conceive, and confirmed in me the old observation, that “there is nothing so extravagant and irrational, which some philosophers have not maintained for truth.”