2015-08-12
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2) In certain types of subordinate clauses where should + in- finitive is interchangeable with a simple predicate in the Indica- tive Mood
A) in object clauses after expressions of regret, surprise,
Sometimes pleasure or displeasure,
E.g. I'm sorry that you should think so badly of me. (Мне жаль,
Что вы так плохо обо мне думаете.) Не was little surprised that Ann should speak so frankly
About it. I am content that you should think so.
The rules of the sequence of tenses are not observed here. The Perfect infinitive is used to show that the action of the subordi nate clause precedes that of the principal clause, e.g. I am sorry that you should have had a row with Kate about it. He was annoyed that they should have asked him that,
b) in object clauses following the principal clause with it as a formal subject,
E.g. It is absurd that such things should happen to a family like theirs. (Нелепо, чтобы такие вещи случались в такой се- мье, как их.)
It was strange that he should be asking those questions. It struck him as exceedingly funny that his brother should
Be in love.
In the principal clause we find such expressions as it is won- derful (absurd, monstrous, natural, odd, queer, singular, strange, terrible and the like), it infuriated (outraged, puzzled, startled, surprised and the like) me, it struck me as funny, etc. We also find the following interrogative and negative expressions in the principal clause: is it possible {likely, probable)?, it is not possible (likely, probable), it is impossible (improbable, unlikely). '
As we see from the above examples, the rules of the sequence of tenses are not observed here either.
If the action of the subordinate clause precedes that of the principal clause, the Perfect infinitive is used after should.
\
E.g. It is inconceivable that Mrs Crosbie should have written such a letter.
It's much better that you should have found everything out before it's too late.
It infuriated her that he should have spoken to her in such a
Tone.
