194. An or a is added to the adjectives such, many, and what, and may be considered a part of these in modifying substantives.
How was I to pay such a debt?—Thackeray.
Many a one you and I have had here below.—Thackeray.
What a world of merriment then melody foretells!—Poe.
With not and many.
195. Not and never with a or an are numeral adjectives, instead of adverbs, which they are in general.
Not a drum was heard, not a funeral note.—Wolfe
My Lord Duke was as hot as a flame at this salute, but said never a word.—Thackeray.
NOTE.—All these have the function of adjectives; but in the last analysis of the expressions, such, many, not, etc., might be considered as adverbs modifying the article.
With few or little.