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394. The supposition contained in a protasis may be either particular or general.

A particular supposition refers to a definite act or to several definite acts, supposed to occur at some definite time (or times); as if he (now) has this, he will give it; if he had it, he gave it; if he had had the power, he would have helped me; if he shall receive it (or if he receives it), he will give it; if he should receive it, he would give it. So if he always acts justly (or if he never commits injustice), I honour him; if he acted justly on all these occasions, he will be rewarded.

A general supposition refers indefinitely to any act or acts of a given class which may be supposed to occur or to have occurred at any time; as if ever he receives anything, he (always) gives it; if ever he received anything, he (always) gave it; if he had (on any occasion) had the power, he would (always) have helped me; if ever any one shall (or should) wish to go, he will (or would) always be permitted. So if he ever acts justly, I (always) honour him; if he ever acted justly, he was (always) rewarded.

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