In this recapitulation of the rules, Syntax is presented in a condensed
form, many of the essential NOTES being omitted. This is a necessary
consequence of my general plan, in which Etymology and Syntax, you know
are blended. Hence, to acquire a complete knowledge of Syntax from this
work, you must look over the whole.
You may now proceed and parse the following additional exercises in
false Syntax; and, as you analyze, endeavor to correct all the errors
without looking at the Key. If, in correcting these examples, you should
be at a loss in assigning the reasons why the constructions are
erroneous, you can refer to the manner adopted in the foregoing pages.
RULE I.
The article _a_ or _an_ agrees with nouns in the _singular_ number only,
individually or collectively; as, "_A_ star, _an_ eagle, _a_ score, _a_
thousand."
RULE II.
The definite article _the_ belongs to nouns in the _singular_ or
_plural_ number; as, "_The_ star, _the_ stars; _the_ hat, _the_ hats."
NOTE 1. A nice distinction in the meaning is sometimes effected by
the use or omission of the article _a_. If I say, "He behaved with
_a_ little reverence," my meaning is positive.
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