When proof-reading for an international publication, the U. S.-UK differences came up, e. g. spelled, spelt and their ilk. Different preferences in UK and U. S. so we accepted both. Leap, leaped, leapt is another. Many in the UK use leapt. We used to get letters, however, from Americans on the one hand questioning 'Briticisms,' and from the English pointing with scorn at 'Americanisms.'

Big arguments about collectives like army- in the U. S. it is 'army is,' in UK it is 'army are.' Listen to the BBCnews on cable; Chelsea are, etc. Americans say Boston is, etc.

In Canada, which has a foot in both linguistic camps, both usages may be heard, but preference is tending more and more towards American usage. Proximity and cable television bring uniformity.

Many conventions, as mentioned above, have come down through the years from Old English; just go with the flow.