Capital letters

[--Pete]

Hi,

I don't think commas belong in that sentence, even if you would pause in speech, but I'm no English major.

Actually, the need for commas in that sentence depends on what the intent of the sentence is. Also, on whether you have more than one uncle.

If the sentence means something along the lines of "I helped my uncle *Jack* off the horse" implying that you did not help your uncle Dick, then the commas should be left off. But if it is clear who your uncle is (i.e., Jack) and that information is redundant, then the commas should be used.

Regardless, the analogy holds if you take the word uncle out completely.

I helped Jack off the horse.
i helped jack off the horse.

You can't tell me commas belong in those sentences.

Nope, no commas need apply in this case. The meaning of the first sentence is clear. If the second sentence started with a capital "I", that too would be clear. As it is, it is ambiguous.

However, the point that capitalization imparts information is valid.

--Pete