Which definition of hardly is most likely suited for this line?

Sometimes my pulse beat so quickly and hardly that I felt the palpitation of every artery; at others, I nearly sank to the ground through languor and extreme weakness.

Early 16th Century: With trouble or hardship

Middle English—Early 19th Century: With energy or force

Middle 16th Century: Barely, only just; not quite

Middle 16th Century: Not easily

Question

Which definition of hardly is most likely suited for this line? 

Sometimes my pulse beat so quickly and hardly that I felt the palpitation of every artery; at others, I nearly sank to the ground through languor and extreme weakness.

 Early 16th Century: With trouble or hardship 

 Middle English—Early 19th Century: With energy or force 

 Middle 16th Century: Barely, only just; not quite 

 Middle 16th Century: Not easily

anonymous · Answer

Middle 16th Century: Barely, only just; not quite

anonymous · Answer

Middle English—Early 19th Century: With energy or force  would be the correct answer. Because of the beat's force, he felt the palpitation of every artery. If it was barely, he wouldn't mind it. @PurpleGirl138

anonymous · Answer

Oops... I read it wrong. Listen to @Smores

anonymous · Answer

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