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Make or Break
Make or Break

Chapter II

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Context Illustration Reading 1/23 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
BOY WANTED.
From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.
Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.
If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.
Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

Make or Break

Chapter II

Reading 1/23 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
BOY WANTED.
Line 2
From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.
Line 3
Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.
Line 4
If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.
Line 5
Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

Learner Dictionary

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

After preposition US /ˈæftər/

later than; following

From this reading “Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.”

Amount verb US /əˈmaʊnt/

to reach or total a particular quantity or value

From this reading “From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.”

Because conjunction US /bɪˈkɔːz/

for the reason that

From this reading “Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.”

Before preposition US /bɪˈfɔːr/

earlier than; in front of

From this reading “If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.”

Confidence noun US /ˈconfidence/

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

From this reading “From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.”

Could modal verb US /kʊd/

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

From this reading “Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.”

During preposition US /ˈdʊrɪŋ/

all through a period, or at some point within it

From this reading “Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.”

Himself pronoun US /hɪmˈself/

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

From this reading “Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.”

Last noun US /last/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.”

Let auxiliary verb US /let/

used to make a suggestion or a command including the speaker

From this reading “Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.”

Life noun US /life/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.”

Look noun US /look/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.”

Retired verb US /rɪˈtaɪərd/

went away to a private place

From this reading “Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.”

Time noun US /time/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.”

Upon preposition US /əˈpɑːn/

a formal word for “on”

From this reading “Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.”

Well noun US /well/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.”

Went noun US /went/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.”

Would modal verb US /wʊd/

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

From this reading “Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.”

All words in this reading · 127

Every word is available to listen to. Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.

adeterminerUS /ə/

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

active

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

afterprepositionUS /ˈæftər/

later than; following

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

always

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

amountverbUS /əˈmaʊnt/

to reach or total a particular quantity or value

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

andeterminerUS /æn/

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

Andre

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

any

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

From this reading If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.

arose

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.

ate

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

From this reading If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.

banks

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

barber

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

becauseconjunctionUS /bɪˈkɔːz/

for the reason that

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

beforeprepositionUS /bɪˈfɔːr/

earlier than; in front of

From this reading If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.

BOY

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

From this reading BOY WANTED.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

came

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

certain

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

change

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

China

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

companies

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

confidencenounUS /ˈconfidence/

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

conscientiousness

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

contents

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

From this reading If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.

couldmodal verbUS /kʊd/

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

counting-room

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

customers

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

day

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

dignified

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

dined

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

From this reading If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.

dinner

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

down

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

duringprepositionUS /ˈdʊrɪŋ/

all through a period, or at some point within it

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

employers

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

faces

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

fashionable

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

From this reading If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.

Fireman

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

fried

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

FromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

full

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

general

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

generation

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

go

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

hepronounUS /hiː/

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

From this reading If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.

himpronounUS /hɪm/

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

himselfpronounUS /hɪmˈself/

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

hold

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

home

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

homes

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

hour

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

From this reading If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.

hours

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

hungry

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

IfconjunctionUS /ɪf/

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

insurance

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

integrity

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

junior

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

kettle

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

lastnounUS /last/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

letauxiliary verbUS /let/

used to make a suggestion or a command including the speaker

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

lifenounUS /life/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

looknounUS /look/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

lull

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

From this reading If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.

made

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

Maggie

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

man

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

men

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

merchants

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

mess

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

middle

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

newspapers

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

o'clock

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

From this reading If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.

odor

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

old

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

only

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

pail

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

From this reading If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.

partners

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

personages

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

placed

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

possessed

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

possible

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

presidents

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

read

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

reasonable

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

retiredverbUS /rɪˈtaɪərd/

went away to a private place

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

sausage-makers

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

sausages

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

savory

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

shaved

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

shop

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

spare

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

spared

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

staid

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

stove

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

theirdeterminerUS /ðer/

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

there

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

theypronounUS /ðeɪ/

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

three

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

From this reading If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.

timenounUS /time/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading If there was a lull any time before three o'clock, he ate the contents of the tin pail; if not, he dined at a fashionable hour.

tin

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

touch

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

town

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

uponprepositionUS /əˈpɑːn/

a formal word for “on”

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

useful

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

venerable

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

WANTED

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

From this reading BOY WANTED.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

well

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

From this reading Andre made himself as useful as possible to his employers, and they could not well spare him in the middle of the day to go home to his dinner, for during 'change hours the shop was full of customers.

wentnounUS /went/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading From the tin kettle, which Maggie had placed by the stove, there arose an odor of fried sausages--a savory mess to a hungry man, possessed of a reasonable amount of confidence in the integrity and conscientiousness of sausage-makers in general.

whopronounUS /huː/

which person or people

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.

wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/

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

From this reading Andre could not well be spared, because there were certain dignified men, presidents of banks and insurance companies, venerable personages with a hold upon the last generation, who came from their homes in the middle of the day to read the newspapers at the "China," or the "Fireman;" staid old merchants, who had retired from active life, and went to the counting-room only to look after the junior partners--men who always shaved down town, and would not let any barber but Andre touch their faces.