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Peaceblinkfriend Posted 18 years ago
Grammar

"Backed up by a network of loyal, if undisciplnied, militiamen he had ruled the country with an iron fist."

"Backed up by a network of loyal, if undisciplnied, militiamen he had ruled the country with an iron fist."

Without further context, is it possible to determine whether this man is still ruling the country or not?

Thanks

PBF
  

Top answer

Hi, No. Clive

— Clive

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  • Clive
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3 Answers
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Clive, really? The "had ruled" sure indicates that he's no longer ruling to me -- or perhaps he's simply no longer ruling with an iron fist. Maybe he's still the ruler, but is kind and gentle?
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Hi,
Yes, that was my thought, that he may now be a kind and gentle ruler.

Clive
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