Re: THEORY: Auxiliaries

--- John Cowan <jcowan@...> wrote:

> complete, except for the
> "sequence of tenses" rule whereby
>
>         I want to go if I can
>
> becomes in the past tense
>
>         I wanted to have gone if I could
> (have).
On the other hand, I don't see anything wrong
with "I wanted to go, if I can." Apart from the
fact that it won't do in "good" writing or
speech.

I don't have any troubles replacing can by could;
but would never naturally use the "to have gone"
bit in the second example.

Padraic.


=====
To him that seeks, if he knock, the door will be opened;
if he seeks, he shall find his way; if he searches for a way, he shall find his path.
For though the Way is narrow, it's wisdom is written in the hearts of all:
if ye would seek and find Rest, look first within!


.

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