He is the first_________hardships, the last__________comforts.

She wrote a famous book, and so ________ a place in history. 

           in thought, he sat at the edge of the bed, with his eyes           on the letter in his hand.

The secretary worked late into the night, ________ a long speech for the president.

When I got back home I saw a message pinned to the door _______ “Sorry to miss you; will call later.”