Hence such verb-phrases with will in the first person are not forms of the future tense. They are special verb-phrases expressing willingness or desire.
235. In the first person shall, not will, is the auxiliary of the future tense in both assertions and questions. It denotes simple futurity, without expressing willingness, desire, or determination.
Will in the first person is used in promising, threatening, consenting, and expressing resolution. It never denotes simple futurity.
I. Simple Futurity (Future Tense)
- I shall be eighteen years old in July. [Not: will be.]
- Hurry, or we shall miss our train. [Not: will miss.]
- We shall be glad to see him. [Not: will be.]
II. Promises, Threats, etc.
- I will subscribe to your fund. [Promise.]
- We will do our best. [Promise.]
- I will discharge you if you are late again. [Threat.]
- We will permit you to go. [Consent.]
- I will have obedience. [Resolution.]
I’ll and we’ll are contractions of I will and we will and can never stand for I shall and we shall.
- I’ll meet you at noon. [Promise.]
- I’ll never consent. [Resolution.]
- We’ll be revenged on you. [Threat.]
236. When willingness is expressed by an adjective, I shall is correct; when by an adverb, I will. Thus,—