Chapter 2

“...Houdini’s unexpected visit had interrupted Mother and Father’s coitus.” (pg. 11)

Coitus: Sexual intercourse
(sorry, no picture allowed)

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“...five varnished dark green cars pulled by a Baldwin 4-4-0 with spoked engine truck wheels.” (pg. 12)

Baldwin 4-4-0: A steam locomotive (choo-choo train). The 4-4-0 represents the number of leading wheels (the big wheels in the front).
This locomotive was known as the "American" since they were mainly made and used in America.

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"Grandfather had to be restrained from lifting the bags. With the porter's help..." (pg. 12)

Porter: A young fellow (usually young) who helps with people's bags.

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"...Father doffed his skimmer and waved goodbye..." (pg. 12)

Skimmer: A light, usually straw hat with a stiff wide brim and a flat shallow crown.

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"...the men of Peary's polar expedition cast off the lines..." (pg. 12)
Peary's Polar Expedition: (1905-1909) Robert Peary, an American explorer, had an expedition to be the first to reach the North Pole.
This was an actual historical event. It was not made up by Doctorow.

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"It was a rag ship with a million dark eyes staring at him." (pg.13)
Rag ship: Large ships used to transport incoming immigrants to the shores of America. Not to be
confused with a passenger liner. These ships provided no commodities to its passengers.
The immigrants were packed on the ships by the hundreds/thousands.