[Grammar] in their use

[jacob123]

Does "their" refer to "many clairvoyants" or does it refer to "powers"? Does "who" refer to "many clairvoyants"?


If the truth of Spiritualism depended upon Mrs. Leonard's powers alone, the case would be an overwhelming one, since she has seen many hundreds of clients and seldom failed to give complete satisfaction. There are, however, many clairvoyants whose powers are little inferior to those of Mrs. Leonard, and who would perhaps equal her if they showed the same restraint in their use. No fee will ever tempt Mrs. Leonard to take more than two clients in the day, and it is to this, no doubt, that the sustained excellence of her results are due.

"The History of Spiritualism," by Arthur Conan Doyle

 

[GoesStation]

Find the nearest preceding noun phrase and you'll have your answer.

 

[jacob123]

Find the nearest preceding noun phrase and you'll have your answer.

who= many clairvorants
{in their use} their= they= many clairvoyants
:up:

 

[Tarheel]

"Who" does refer to "many clairvoyants". However, "restraint in their use" refers to their powers.

 

[GoesStation]

who= many clairvorants
{in their use} their= they= many clairvoyants

The rule just got more complicated. You need the nearest preceding noun phrase that isn't referred to by a nearer determiner.

 

[jacob123]

"Who" does refer to "many clairvoyants". However, "restraint in their use" refers to their powers.

doesn't "their" refer to "powers"?
I am a little confused.

 

[Tarheel]

The phrase "restraint in their use" refers to the use of their powers.

Does that make it clear?