Brad,

For those of us who don't have the book, why don't you give us a few examples?

Craig.

 

 

After two terms during which I labored in the minority, Democrats (had) gained control of the state senate and I (had) subsequently passed a slew of bills.

 

For the first time in my career, I began to experience the envy of seeing younger politicians succeed where I (had) failed, moving into higher offices, getting more things done.

 

It was an ill-considered race, and I lost badly -- the sort of drubbing that awakens you to the fact that life is not obliged to work out as you (had) planned.

 

But he still had unlimited money in his family, as well as a genuine integrity that (had) earned him grudging respect from the voters.

 

I felt like working harder than I (had) ever worked in my life.

 

That's 5 of 34 had-before-past-tense items. Then there are the 'had been's.

 

I (had) preserved my independence, my good name, and my marriage, all of which (had been) were placed at risk the moment I set foot in the state capitol.

 

I knew once again just why I (had gone) went into politics.

 

And the irregular verbs.

 

In me, one of those flaws (had proven) proved to be a chronic restlessness.

 

I began to harbor doubts about the path I (had chosen) chose.

 

By my count, there are 56 such bloopers in the first 21 pages.

 

Others will look at it and tell us what count they get.

 

.brad.18feb08.