[*] 26. The present is often used with expressions denoting past time, especially πάλαι, in the sense of a perfect and a present combined. E.g.
- “Κεῖνον ἰχνεύω πάλαι,” “I have been tracking him a long time (and still continue it).” SOPH. Aj. 20.
- “Οὐ πάλαι σοι λέγω ὅτι ταὐτόν φημι εἶναι;” “i.e., have I not long ago told you (and do I not still repeat) that I call it the same thing?” PLAT. Gorg. 489 C .
- “Θεοὺς αἰτῶ ... φρουρᾶς ἐτείας μῆκος” AESCH. Ag. 1.
