Though contracted to its last letter, a word still asserts its existence; but when even the last letter has vanished its state is parlous indeed.
"America To-day, Observations and Reflections"
William Archer
A man without literary instincts who inherits a fine library is indeed in a parlous state, for if he keeps it he is as a dog in the manger, and if he sells it he is held up to opprobrium.
"Fine Books"
Alfred W. Pollard
The affairs of the tribe were in a parlous state.
"Witch-Doctors"
Charles Beadle