All verbs are active, and have one object or more than one,
expressed or implied. The pillar _stands_; that is, it _keeps
itself_ in an erect or standing posture; it _upholds_ or _sustains
itself_ in that position. They _are_; i.e. they _air_ themselves, or
_breathe_ air; they _inspirit, vivify_, or _uphold_ themselves by
inhaling air.
Many verbs whose objects are seldom expressed, always have a persona
or verbal one implied. The clouds _move_; i.e. move _themselves_
along. The troops _marched_ twenty miles a day; i.e. marched
_themselves_. The moon _shines_:--The moon _shines_ or _sheds_ a
_shining, sheen, lustre_, or _brightness_. The sparrow
_flies:--flies_ or _takes_ a _flight_. Talkers talk or speak _words_
or _talk_; Walkers walk _walkings_ or _walks_; The rain rains
_rain_; Sitters sit or hold _sittings_ or _sessions_.
To prove that there is no such thing as a neuter verb, the following
appear to be the strongest arguments adduced.
1. No portion of matter is ever in a state of perfect quiescence;
but the component parts of every thing are at all times "influenced
by different, active principles, tending to produce change.
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