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> The use of "were" is correct, but you are correct that generally speaking "I" and "he/she/it" are singular. "If he were a babe" is an example of the subjunctive tense, in which there is speculation about what might have been but which is not. It always (I think) follows the word "if," and the plural "were" is used for all subjects. Here are some examples:
>
> "If I were you, I would...."
> >
> S "English is crazy/fun" am

I'm really disappointed, Sam.

I thought for sure that you'd use "I would not say such things, if I were you!"* as one of your examples.

Kel"*Princess Bride reference"ly