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Zoe

Chapter II

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Context Illustration Reading 1/19 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.
Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.
Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.
But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.
Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

Zoe

Chapter II

Reading 1/19 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.
Line 2
Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.
Line 3
Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.
Line 4
But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.
Line 5
Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

Learner Dictionary

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

Being auxiliary verb US /ˈbiːɪŋ/

the -ing form of “be”

From this reading “Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.”

Complimented verb US /ˈkɑmpləmentɪd/

praised or expressed approval of

From this reading “But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.”

Course noun US /course/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.”

Disposed noun US /ˈdisposed/

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

From this reading “Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.”

Exposed adjective US /ɪkˈspəʊzd/

left open to danger or view left open to danger or public view

From this reading “Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.”

Hand noun US /hand/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.”

Have auxiliary verb US /hæv/

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading “But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.”

Having auxiliary verb US /ˈhævɪŋ/

the -ing form of “have”

From this reading “Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.”

Himself pronoun US /hɪmˈself/

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

From this reading “But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.”

Little noun US /little/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.”

Neither determiner US /ˈniːðər/

not one and not the other of two

From this reading “Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.”

Perhaps noun US /perhaps/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.”

Pleasant noun US /pleasant/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.”

Since preposition US /sɪns/

from a time in the past until now

From this reading “Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.”

Sometimes noun US /sometimes/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.”

Still noun US /still/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.”

Think noun US /think/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.”

Though conjunction US /ðoʊ/

in spite of the fact that

From this reading “Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.”

Would modal verb US /wʊd/

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

From this reading “But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.”

All words in this reading · 153

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 Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

accepted

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

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

accounted

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

all

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

almost

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

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

AndeterminerUS /æn/

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

Answer

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

audience

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

bass

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

beingauxiliary verbUS /ˈbiːɪŋ/

the -ing form of “be”

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

bothdeterminerUS /boʊθ/

the two together, not just one

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

ButconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

came

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

certain

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

choir

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

Choirs

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

church

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

clergy

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

Clifford

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

close

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

colleges

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

complimentedverbUS /ˈkɑmpləmentɪd/

praised or expressed approval of

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

conceit

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

concerned

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

concerts

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

coursenounUS /course/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

Daughter's

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

desirable

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

discretion

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

disposednounUS /ˈdisposed/

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

doubtfully

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

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

Downside

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

drove

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

ease

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

Edith

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

Elopement

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

enjoyment

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

Entreater

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

envy

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

excellent

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

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

exposedadjectiveUS /ɪkˈspəʊzd/

left open to danger or view left open to danger or public view

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

fancies

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

far

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

Father

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

Father's

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

Favourable

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

festivities

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

firm

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

friends

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

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

fromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

generally

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

grapple

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

greater

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From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

greatest

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

hand

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

havingauxiliary verbUS /ˈhævɪŋ/

the -ing form of “have”

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

hepronounUS /hiː/

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

himselfpronounUS /hɪmˈself/

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

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

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

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

house

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From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

imported

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

inclined

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From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

inferior

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

inseparable

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/

moving to the inside of something

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

itpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

kept

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

latest

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From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

leading

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

less

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

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

littlenounUS /little/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

lived

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From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

lucky

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From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

man

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From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

matter

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From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

matters

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

Mr

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

music

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

musical

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

neighbouring

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

NeitherdeterminerUS /ˈniːðər/

not one and not the other of two

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

NodeterminerUS /noʊ/

not any; not one

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

norconjunctionUS /nɔːr/

and not; used after a negative to add a second negative

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

onprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

organist

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

other

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From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

Pair

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

parishes

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

parishioners

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

penny-readings

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

performers

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

perhaps

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

Pillow

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

pleasantnounUS /pleasant/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

possession

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

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

rather

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From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

reins

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

remarks

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From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

Return

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

Robins

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

schoolmaster

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

schoolmistress

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

seems

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

sensible

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

services

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

sinceprepositionUS /sɪns/

from a time in the past until now

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

Sleepless

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

slight

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

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

solemnity

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

some

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

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

sometimes

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

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

Sorrow

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

stillnounUS /still/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

suchdeterminerUS /sʌtʃ/

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

team

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

tenor

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

ThedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

theirdeterminerUS /ðer/

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

thinknounUS /think/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

thoughconjunctionUS /ðoʊ/

in spite of the fact that

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

touchiness

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

training

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

treasure

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

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

tyranny

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

Unhappy

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

unmanageable

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

From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

vagaries

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

very

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

vicar

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

Village

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

From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

voice

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From this reading Neither had he to grapple with the tyranny of the leading bass nor the conceit and touchiness that seems inseparable from the tenor voice, since Mr Robins kept a firm and sensible hand on the reins, and drove that generally unmanageable team, a village choir, with the greatest discretion.

Wanderer's

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From this reading Mr Robins--Village Choirs--Edith--An Elopement--A Father's Sorrow--An Unhappy Pair--The Wanderer's Return--Father!--A Daughter's Entreater--No Favourable Answer--A Sleepless Pillow The organist of Downside, Mr Robins, lived in a little house close to the church.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

whenconjunctionUS /wen/

at the time that

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

whereconjunctionUS /wer/

in or at the place that

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading Mr Robins imported a certain solemnity into the musical matters of Downside, which of course was very desirable as far as the church services were concerned; but when it came to penny-readings and village concerts, Mr Clifford and some of the parishioners were disposed to envy the pleasant ease of such festivities in other parishes, where, though the music was very inferior, the enjoyment of both performers and audience was far greater.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

worse

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.

wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/

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

From this reading But when Mr Clifford was complimented by his friends on the possession of such a treasure, he accepted their remarks a little doubtfully, being sometimes inclined to think that he would almost rather have had a less excellent choir and have had some slight voice in the matter himself.

young

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

From this reading Mr Clifford the vicar was accounted very lucky by the neighbouring clergy for having such a man, and not being exposed to all the vagaries of a young schoolmaster, or, perhaps, still worse, schoolmistress, with all the latest musical fancies of the training colleges.