On the floor, amid mounds of books, were two small envelopes. Her office was an oasis of peace and sanity amid the surrounding chaos. The town sits amid gentle hills and dense forest.
to pay back money to someone who has spent it for you or lost it because of you
vow
From that day on, she vowed never to trust him again. After a lengthy and painful divorce, she vowed never to remarry. Tamir, one of several sons of the exiled ruler, vowed he would liberate his country from the tyrant.
to make a determined decision or promise to do something
frugality
Her grandmother had experienced the frugality of the war years. She was known for her simplicity and frugality. They taught that frugality must be observed in food and clothing.
to prevent someone from discovering information by not being helpful or by refusing to answer questions
preceding
The paintings are a development of ideas she explored in the preceding decade. In conclusion, I hope the preceding arguments have convinced you of the need for action.