Prepositional object

Exercise 15 Observe the Gerund in the syntactic function of the prepositional object. Translate the sentences into Russian:

1. It seemed an impossible contradiction, and as they crossed the bridge at the far end of the island, heading toward home, she gave up trying to resolve it. (N. Sparks) 2. He liked her spirited nature, her self-control and confidence, and he especially liked the fact that she didn’t seem conscious of possessing those qualities. (N. Sparks) 3. The authorities were not successful in coping with it, for its secrets were jealously guarded, and it was almost impossible to find anyone who could be induced to betray them. (A. Christie) 4. The law is very vague about killing animals. (D. Francis) 5. The chef, upon realizing that Marco was a Canadian very curious about Bolognese cuisine, insisted on serving both dishes. (J. Grisham) 6. He said he was thinking of going to Venice next. (J. Grisham) 7. Small-town banks were not known for overpaying their people. (J. Grisham) 8. “I wish to thank you,” he said, “for coming to our defense. For helping Princess Casilia.” (D. Francis) 9. Put like that, Ceri had to think quickly for a logical reply, otherwise she would have had to admit to being noisy, and no one likes to be thought that. (J. Turner) 10. He assumed Critz was present when the pardon was granted; ex-president Morgan was incapable of making such a decision by himself. (J. Grisham) 11. ... and then how his mother would weep, how she would accuse him of being a traitor – and how he would once more demand Melvyn’s absence as the price of his own return. (J. Turner) 12. But the big question hovered, just behind the automatic politeness to a guest which had prevented Nicola from slamming the door smartly in her erstwhile friend’s face. (J. Turner) 12. He talked of returning to Scotland, buying a big old farmhouse with lots of land and combining a vet’s practice with farming or running a stables, all things which appealed to Nicola. (J. Turner)

Exercise 16 Use gerundial constructions or phrases instead of subordinate clauses. Mind prepositions:

I’m surprised	that he knows French. that he has been invited to the party. that he will take part in the conference. that he rang me up so early in the morning.
He is proud	that he is always praised. that he was praised by the teacher yesterday. that he took part in the conference.
I’m pleased	that he comes to see us. that my friend goes to Moscow. that you apologized. that my friend often writes to me. that our work was finished in time.

Exercise 17 Make up sentences using the Gerund:

Model: I avoid meeting Mrs. Smith because he is so very talkative.

He doesn’t like meeting Mrs. Smith because...