Different meaning (in this case, anyway)

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Different meaning (in this case, anyway) Written by kathleen (elder) (3/15/2009 5:53 p.m.) in consequence of the missive, "...snuffed it..." End of Chapter 21, penned by Cathy Allen

Snuffing in this context meant cutting off (or breaking off?) the charred end of the candlewick. In fact, one of the alternate definitions of snuff from dictionary.com is a noun meaning the charred end of a candlewick.

The text prior to (& including) what you quoted is:

The dimness of the light her candle emitted made her turn to it with alarm; but there was no danger of its sudden extinction; it had yet some hours to burn; and that she might not have any greater difficulty in distinguishing the writing than what its ancient date might occasion, she hastily snuffed it. Alas! It was snuffed and extinguished in one.

Clearly, Catherine was trying to see better, so when she "snuffed" the candle, she was trying to get more light from the candle.

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"...snuffed it..." End of Chapter 21 Cathy Allen (3/15/2009 5:41 p.m.)

Different meaning (in this case, anyway) kathleen (elder) (3/15/2009 5:53 p.m.)
- Thought it must be so, but couldn't guess; thanks! ( nfm) Cathy Allen (3/15/2009 6:10 p.m.)
  - Always worth a little bit of research :-) kathleen (elder) (3/15/2009 6:24 p.m.)
    - Great link - thank you! *nfm* MarianneR (3/16/2009 5:25 a.m.)
    - Oooo! Fascinating stuff, Kathleen; thanks AGAIN! Cathy Allen (3/15/2009 6:48 p.m.)
    - Very illuminating! nan duval (3/15/2009 6:34 p.m.)
- Thanks, Kathleen! (nfm) Line (3/15/2009 5:56 p.m.)
I was wondering about that too - anybody know? (nfm) Line (3/15/2009 5:46 p.m.)

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