TASK DEFINITION: In this task you are given a sentence. You must judge whether the main verb of the sentence is in present or past tense. Label the instances as "Present" or "Past" based on your judgment. If there is no verb in the given text, answer "Present".
PROBLEM: she exclaimed, peering at both of us.

SOLUTION: Past

PROBLEM: Turning, I appraised the guards.

SOLUTION: Present

PROBLEM: Lucas crossed the small clearing, his boots padding softly against the layers of vegetation.

SOLUTION:
Past