'Paul's Case,' by Willa Cather, Part Two

txedo - n. a formal black suit for a man, worn with a white shirt and a black bow tie

chandelier - n. a large, decorated light that hangs from a ceiling and has branches for holding many light bulbs or candles

precious - adj. greatly loved, valued, or important

splendid - adj. very impressive and beautiful

challenge - v. to test the ability, skill, or strength of