spectres ghosts.
dilapidation decay.
garret unfinished part of a house just under the roof.
palaver idle talk between two people.
pinafores sleeveless dresses or garments worn over dresses.
asseverated spoken earnestly.
lachrymose mournful.
vagabond an irresponsible wanderer.
cudgel a short club.
excommunicated excluded from church membership.
casement a window with side hinges that open outward.
changeling a child switched with another in infancy.
stagnate to be motionless.
impudence boldness.
sotto voce under one's breath, so as not to be overheard
egress an exit.
decorum polite behavior.
adieux good-byes.
