In two of the following sentences, would + verb stem has meaning which, when compared to the other sentences, is more closely associated with straightforward future time reference. In the other sentences, however, would + verb stem has meanings which are less future-like and more modal. These include the following modal meanings:

a. narrative flash-forward

b. probability

c. typical behaviour

d. refusal

e. promise

f. willingness

Indicate which two sentences are more oriented to future time reference; for the other six sentences, indicate which type of modal meaning comes to the fore, using (a) to (f) above. Each of the modal meanings is used only once.

1. She said that if I would only wait for a moment or two, she could show me the way.

2. The administration confirmed that the autumn recess would take place in November.

3. They were convinced they would beat the other team, but that’s not what happened.

4. They told me that they would be arriving well before the end of the day.

5. Jack called to cancel again, but then he would, wouldn’t he? He’s so unreliable.

6. I told them I would help them organize the event. They’re counting on me.

7. I explained that I’d dropped my computer and that now it wouldn’t start.

8. The inhabitants of the village sold much of their land to foreign developers in the first part of the century, a decision they would later regret.