a • skew adv., crookedly. Jim wore his cap askew, with the bill turned to the side.

ben • e • dic • tion n., blessing. The priest gave a benediction before the meal last night.

strewn adj., spread about here and there as by sprinkling. Five small children live there, and toys are always strewn about.

PAGE 189

touch • stone n., any test of genuineness or value. Sandra is my touchstone: whenever I have an idea, I explain it to her first to see if she approves.

le • git • i • mate adj., conforming to law, rules, or accepted standards; straightforward; worthy. The driver was arrested because he did not have a legitimate driver’s license. legitimately, adv.

PAGE 191

res • o • lute adj., having or showing a fixed, firm purpose. I tried to change Jamie’s mind, but he was resolute.

mute adv., silent; not speaking. The circus act was so amazing that it left us all mute with astonishment. mutely, adv.