The truncated phrase in the above passage reads in the original "more hideous or more splendid," and after Averring that "nothing is given to beauty," Mr. Steevens immediately proceeds to celebrate the beauty of many New York buildings.
"America To-day, Observations and Reflections"
William Archer
It shook the furniture and made a rattling, and caused Gina to have a fit of hysteria, and sent her running out into the street, notwithstanding the storm, Averring that she would on the whole prefer to be slain by lightning than by a collapsing roof.
"The Furnace"
Rose Macaulay
Then followed a number of pleasant suggestions for my future management; one proposing to have me tried for mutiny, and sentenced to a ducking over the side, another that I should be tarred on my back, to which latter most humane notion, the fair Agnes subscribed, Averring that she was resolved upon my deserving my sobriquet of Dirk Hatteraick.
"The Confessions of Harry Lorrequer, Complete"
Charles James Lever (1806-1872)