Plain English; A Practical Work on the English Language for Use in Public and Private Schools, Academies, Commercial Colleges, and for Private Learners (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1902 Excerpt: ... has changed much.' 3. Using but that, but what, or lest for that, after verbs expressing doubt, fear, or denial; as, "I do not doubt but that it is true." Omitted "I never doubted but what he was innocent." Use that instead of but what. "I fear lest they will not come." Say ' that they will not come.' But is sometimes incorrectly used for if; as, "I should not wonder but that is true." Say 'if that is true.' 4. Directly.--This adverb should not be used as a conjunction to take the place of when or as soon as, thus: "Directly we came he went." "Directly we got aboard, the boat started." Say 'when, ' or 'as soon as.' This awkward use of directly is a Briticism. Avoid it. 5. How or how as for that; as, "He said how he would come if he could." "I thought as how you might be willing to extend the time." Say 'that he would come;' 'that you might be willing'--etc. MISCELLANEOUS EXERCISES TO BE CORRECTED. Two are correct. 266. 1. Do you know if they still sell those goods? 2. He would like to know if you will go with them. 3. He asked me if I would call and see you. 4. Do you know if it will cost as much as the other? 5. The judge asked the prisoner if he was guilty or not guilty. 6. I do not know as that will help matters any. 7. We cannot see as that alters the case. 8. We cannot say as he is any worse than he was. 9. We did not doubt but what they will Succeed. 10. We fear lest she will not get well. 11. We do not deny but that you have grounds for suspicion. 12. He does not doubt but what you did your best. 13. I should not be surprised if that was the case. 14. We will try and do the work for you. 15. Directly I got home I wrote to him. 16. He will not go without you do. 16. I beg ...