The Comma is used to separate those parts of a sentence, which are so nearly connected in sense, as to be only one degree removed from that close connexion which admits no point.
RULE I.—SIMPLE SENTENCES.
A simple sentence does not, in general, admit the comma; as, "The weakest reasoners are the most positive."—W. Allen's Gram., p. 202. "Theology has not hesitated to make or support a doctrine by the position of a comma."—Tract on Tone, p. 4.
"Then pain compels the impatient soul to seize
On promis'd hopes of instantaneous ease."—Crabbe.
EXCEPTION.—LONG SIMPLE SENTENCES.
When the nominative in a long simple sentence is accompanied by inseparable adjuncts, or when several words together are used in stead of a nominative, a comma should be placed immediately before the verb; as, "Confession of sin without amendment, obtains no pardon."—Dillwyn's Reflections, p. 6. "To be totally indifferent to praise or censure, is a real defect in character."—Murray's Gram., p. 268.
"O that the tenor of my just complaint,[461]
Were sculpt with steel in rocks of adamant!"—Sandys.
RULE II.—SIMPLE MEMBERS.
The simple members of a compound sentence, whether successive or involved, elliptical or complete, are generally divided by the comma; as,
1. "Here stand we both, and aim we at the best."—Shak.