It may consist in the present proof of the past fact,—I have written, and here is the evidence.
It may consist in the present effects of the past fact,—I have written, and here is the answer.
Without either enumerating or classifying these different kinds of connexion, it is necessary to indicate two sorts of inference to which they may give origin.
1. The inference of continuance.—When a person says, I have learned my lesson, we presume that he can say it, i. e., that, he has a present knowledge of it. Upon this principle
κέκτημαι=I have earned=I possess. The past action is assumed to be continued in its effects.
2. The inference of contrast.—When a person says, I have been young, we presume that he is so no longer. The action is past, but it is continued up to the time of speaking by the contrast which it supplies. Upon this principle, fuit Ilium means Ilium is no more.
In speaking, this difference can be expressed by a difference of accent. I have learned my lesson, implies that I don't mean to learn it again. I have learned my lesson, implies that I can say it.
[§ 585]. The construction of the auxiliary, may, will be considered in the Chapter on Conjunctions; that of can, must, and let, offer nothing remarkable. The combination of the auxiliary, have, with the past participle requires notice. It is, here, advisable to make the following classifications.
1. The combination with the participle of a transitive verb.—I have ridden the horse; thou hast broken the sword; he has smitten the enemy.
2. The combination with the participle of an intransitive verb,—I have waited; thou hast hungered; he has slept.