Question

read the excerpts from samuel johnsons preface to a dictionary of the english language. so far have i been from any care to grace my pages with modern decorations, that i have studiously endeavoured to collect examples and authorities from the writers before the restoration. i look with pleasure on my book, however defective, and deliver it to the world with the spirit of a man that has endeavoured well. in both excerpts, the word endeavour means to probe, investigate, or examine. make an effort or attempt, or to try. judge harshly or criticize. overlook, ignore, or neglect.

Explanation:

In the context, the author is talking about making an effort to collect examples and also about having made a good - faith effort in creating the book. "Endeavour" means to make an effort or attempt.

Answer:

B. make an effort or attempt, or to try.