I would like to do whatever has been asked of me, but I am unable to. Sometimes used humorously or sarcastically.

Would that I could in a sentence?

I recently used "Would that I could..." in a opinion piece for my local paper and my editor questioned it. I don't know that he had ever heard it, but I was at something of a loss to explain it. Now I'm curious. Any help would be appreciated.

When to use if you would?

1. The conditional construction does not normally use will or would in if-clauses. EXCEPTION: If will or would express willingness, as in requests, they can be used in if-clauses. e.g. If you will come this way, the manager will see you now.