Language Point 41

... a great number of combinations, but he arrived at no result. (Para. 5)
a great number of: many
There are a great number of people there.

那里有很多人。
combination: n. something that results from two or more things, (esp. chemicals) being combined.
This project is a good combination of science and art.

这个项目是科学与艺术的完美结合。
arrive at: reach, make or decide on (an idea, decision, judgment or result)
It took them a long time to arrive at a very difficult decision.

他们花了很长时间才作出了一个艰难的决定。