#Person1#: Where will we go on your vacation?
#Person2#: Well, I speak some French so I decided to go to a country where they speak French.
#Person1#: So, you go to France?
#Person2#: Actually no, and I don't go to Spain this time. I'll spend my whole vacation in Morocco.
#Person1#: I'll take the most interesting trip to China.
#Person2#: China? Not South Korea? I thought you're going to South Korea.
#Person1#: I want to go to China and South Korea, but I don't have enough time.
#Person2#: I don't know you're interested in China.
#Person1#: China is a fascinating country and I got to see most of it. I love Chinese art.
#Person2#: I don't know anything about China or South Korea either.

Summary: #Person2#'ll go to Spain on vacation. #Person1# wants to go to China and South Korea that #Person2# knows nothing about but #Person1# doesn't have enough time.


#Person1#: I'm ready to settle the bill.
#Person2#: I hope you enjoyed your stay.
#Person1#: Definitely! Very relaxing.
#Person2#: Good. Right, that comes to $ 1, 500.
#Person1#: What? I only stayed three nights.
#Person2#: That's right, sir. Three nights at 500 dollars a night. . . that comes to $ 1, 500.
#Person1#: But your brochure said that this was a package deal and the hotel's services were all-inclusive.
#Person2#: Yes, of course. The meals and excursions were included in the hotel price.
#Person1#: But why are you overcharging me almost a thousand dollars? 250 dollars a night, times three nights should just be $ 750.
#Person2#: I'm sorry sir. The 250 - dollar rate is based on double occupancy. That means it's 250 per person. The room itself is 500 dollars a night.
#Person1#: Perhaps I could talk to your manager?
#Person2#: Of course. Just a minute ; I'll get her.

Summary: #Person1# thinks the hotel is overcharging him. #Person2# explains the price #Person1# claims is based on double occupancy, but #Person1# still asks for the manager.


#Person1#: Welcome to Youth Hotel, can I help you?
#Person2#: I'd like a room for a night.
#Person1#: Would you like a single room, a double room or a room for three?
#Person2#: Oh, a single room please. Can I pay by check?
#Person1#: Sure, fill in this form please.
#Person2#: Need my student card number?
#Person1#: No, just your address and telephone number.
#Person2#: OK, here is the form.
#Person1#: Very well. Here is your key to room 212.
#Person2#: Thank you!
#Person1#: Have a good stay!

Summary: #Person2# pays for a single room for a night by check. #Person1# helps #Person2# to check-in.


#Person1#: In Britain, we are often told that people are leaving the big cities to live in the countryside, but is this the same worldwide?
#Person2#: Not at all. If you look at the biggest cities in one thousand nine hundred and fifty, 7 out of the top 10 were in the developed countries. But by the year two thousand, the developing countries will have 8 out of top 10. New York, which in one thousand nine hundred and fifty, was number one with a population of around 12,000,000 will only be the sixth the largest city in the world, but with an extra 2 million.
#Person1#: And London?
#Person2#: London, which was number 2, won't even be in the top ten, its population in one thousand nine hundred and fifty, by the way, was about 10,000,000.
#Person1#: And why is this happening? Why are people moving to the big cities from the country in the developing countries?
#Person2#: The reasons are various, but many are moving to look for work and the problems caused by this are enormous. It said the 26,000,000 people will be living in Mexico City by the year two thousand, with Sao Paulo in Brazil, not far behind.
#Person1#: It's hard to believe.
#Person2#: I know. Well, just imagine the difficulties this is going to cause in terms of health, transport, an education.

Summary: #Person1# says #Person1# is told that people in developed countries tend to leave big cities. But #Person2# tells #Person1# that in developing countries, people still move to big cities from the countryside for various reasons. This also causes many difficulties.


#Person1#: What else should we do now after the floors are done and after the furniture is in?
#Person2#: We need to redo the curtains and paint all the walls and ceilings.
#Person1#: I'm the painter. You can be in charge of going to curtain shops to choose curtains. That will probably be pretty expensive too. Having good curtains made isn't cheap.
#Person2#: You mean we can't just buy curtains already made?
#Person1#: Absolutely not. The windows must be measured, and then the curtains need to be made professionally. So that will take a while. Maybe a month or so.
#Person2#: While the curtains are being made, I can start having people look at the kitchen. I can't stand that old kitchen. I won't be able to cook there. I don't want to use that electric stove.
#Person1#: We need to find an interior decorating company to redecorate the kitchen. I believe in Portland there are shops that specialize in kitchen renovation. I will look in the Yellow Pages. I'd like a kitchen mostly in ivory and light green.
#Person2#: I agree. The colors must be soft and pleasant. You should feel comfortable when you cook our dinners.
#Person1#: Me? Cook our dinners? Hah! You will be cooking, dear. You will cook.
#Person2#: No, I don't think so. I'll be too busy having tea in our new tea room.
#Person1#: Well, I suppose we'll have to hire a cook then. So you won't be able to afford any clothes next year.
#Person2#: And you'll have to sell your motorcycle. And your cameras. Right?
#Person1#: Maybe I'll cook once or twice a week. How is that?
#Person2#: Four times might be enough. Not once or twice.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are going to redo the curtains and to paint the walls and ceilings. They also want to find an interior decorating company to redecorate the kitchen in ivory and light green. But they have a quarrel because neither of them wants to cook.


#Person1#: Would you come to dinner next Sunday?
#Person2#: Sunday? No, I'm sorry. I'm busy on Sunday.
#Person1#: How about Saturday?
#Person2#: Yes, I'd love to. What time?
#Person1#: How about 7:00?
#Person2#: OK.
#Person1#: Do you know where I live?
#Person2#: Sorry, I have no idea.
#Person1#: I'm on No. 1125, Beijing Road.
#Person2#: I think I can find it. Anything I should bring along?
#Person1#: Oh, just bring yourself. We'll get everything ready.
#Person2#: Thank you for your kindness.
#Person1#: I'll see you then.
#Person2#: Thanks. Goodbye.

Summary: #Person1# invites #Person2# to come to dinner next Saturday at 7.


#Person1#: Did you see the late night film on television yesterday?
#Person2#: The one on Channel 8?
#Person1#: No, on Channel 5. It was about a couple who hitch-hiked across the Sahara desert.
#Person2#: No. I didn't. Was it any good?
#Person1#: Well, it was quite good, I suppose, but all those miles of sand did get a bit boring after a while. I think I prefer horror films to travel stories or love stories.
#Person2#: I went out for a meal with my friends, They took me to a Greek restaurant.
#Person1#: Sounds unusual! What was the food like?
#Person2#: Actually, I quite liked it.
#Person1#: I'm not keen on foreign food myself. I'd rather stick to roast beef or just fish and chips.
#Person2#: Yes. I notice you always eat chips! Don't you ever get sick of chips?
#Person1#: No, never. In fact, I'd rather eat chips than bread.
#Person2#: Well, I prefer trying new food to eating the same old things day after day.
#Person1#: I see, So you won't be coming to the cafe at lunch time with me, then. You'd rather eat on your own, right?
#Person2#: Well...

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# about the late-night film on Channel 5 yesterday. #Person2# tells #Person1# that #Person2# went out with friends to a Greek restaurant and then they talk about what food they like.


#Person1#: Hey Mel! Are you up for some tennis today?
#Person2#: Sorry, I can ' t! I have to go to work, pick up Jake and Maddie from school, and make them an afternoon snack, then take Jake to soccer practice and Maddie to dance class.
#Person1#: You sound exhausted. Maybe you should hire a nanny to help you out! She can pick the kids up and take them to their after-school activities. She can also help you do some household chores, and run so
#Person2#: Oh, I don ' t know... it ' s hard to find the right nanny. You have to consider her previous work experience, the responsibilities you give her, and how she interacts with the kids. I would love to have
#Person1#: I think you should definitely consider it! This way you won ' t have to juggle such a busy schedule, and you ' ll still get to spend time with the kids in the evenings. I can refer you this great
#Person2#: Oh, that ' s great. Thanks Grace. Can you give me her number? I ' ll talk it over with Dan and give her a call tomorrow. Maybe this way I won ' t be so tired every day, and Dan and I might even get to go

Summary: Mel refuses Grace's invitation to play tennis today because she is too busy taking care of the kids. Grace suggests Mel hire a nanny but Mel thinks it's hard to find a suitable person, so Grace gives a recommendation.


#Person1#: What should you do if you find out a man may has an illegal departure in exit control point?
#Person2#: We can inform the department in charge and ask for revocation of passport.
#Person1#: What else do you need to keep him in temporary custody?
#Person2#: We need a detention warrant.

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# the questions about an illegal departure.


#Person1#: Emily, I heard you took a trip to San Diego.
#Person2#: Yes, my son Jim was admitted by San Diego University. So I drove him there and visited the city with my husband and daughter.
#Person1#: What did you do there?
#Person2#: Well, we were only there for 3 days, so we didn't do too many things. On the first day, we looked around San Diego University and then dropped into the local hospital to visit a local boy. I had read about him in a newspaper. He's suffering from cancer, but he's very brave. At night we walked around the city.
#Person1#: Did you take any pictures?
#Person2#: Yes, my husband bought a new iPhone 7 plus for my son. And he is really a good photographer. I stored some in my phone. Do you want to look at a few?
#Person1#: Sure. I love looking at photos.
#Person2#: This one is of my husband and me on the beach and this was taken in a museum before we left. The boy next to my husband is Jim.
#Person1#: Your son looks as handsome as your husband.
#Person2#: They do look very similar.

Summary: Emily tells #Person1# about her trip to San Diego with her family and what they did there. Then she shares some pictures with #Person1#.


#Person1#: Hello. Sunnyside Inn. May I help you?
#Person2#: Yes, I'd like to reserve a room for two on the 21st of March.
#Person1#: Okay. Let me check our computer here for a moment. The 21st of May, right?
#Person2#: No. March, not May.
#Person1#: Oh, sorry. Let me see here. Hmmm.
#Person2#: Are you all booked that night?
#Person1#: Well, we have one suite available, complete with a kitchenette and a sauna bath. And the view of the city is great, too.
#Person2#: How much is that?
#Person1#: It's only $200 dollars, plus a 10% room tax.
#Person2#: Oh, that's a little too expensive for me. Do you have a cheaper room available either on the 20th or the 22nd?
#Person1#: Well, would you like a smoking or a non-smoking room?
#Person2#: Non-smoking, please.
#Person1#: Okay, we do have a few rooms available on the 20th; we're full on the 22nd, unless you want a smoking room.
#Person2#: Well, how much is the non-smoking room on the 20th?
#Person1#: $80 dollars, plus the 10% room tax.
#Person2#: Okay, that'll be fine.
#Person1#: All right. Could I have your name, please?
#Person2#: Yes. Bob Maexner.
#Person1#: How do you spell your last name, Mr. Maexner?
#Person2#: M-A-E-X-N-E-R.
#Person1#: Okay, Mr. Maexner, we look forward to seeing you on March 20th.
#Person2#: Okay. Goodbye.

Summary: Bob Maexner wants to reserve a room for two on the 21st of March, but the only suite left is too expensive. In the end, #Person1# helps Bob to reserve a non-smoking room on March 20th.


#Person1#: When can I move into my new house?
#Person2#: The current owners will be moving out on Tuesday, so technically you could pick up the keys and move in on Wednesday.
#Person1#: Will the utilities be turned on?
#Person2#: You need to contact the utility company and make arrangements to transfer the utilities to your name.
#Person1#: I really want to paint the walls right away and get the carpet cleaned.
#Person2#: If I were you, I would take a few days to take care of those things before you move in.
#Person1#: I was thinking that I should have my new appliances delivered as we are moving in.
#Person2#: That would be perfect. That way, someone will be there, but you will have them right away.
#Person1#: Can you help me on my move-in day?
#Person2#: I think that I have something else really important to do on that day. I just can't remember what it is.

Summary: #Person1# is going to move into #Person1#'s new house. #Person1# and #Person2# talk about the move-in date and the pre-arrangements. #Person1# asks for #Person2#'s help on the move-in day but #Person2# thinks #Person2# can't make it.


#Person1#: I want a ticket to New York, one way please.
#Person2#: That'll be $285. How would you like to pay?
#Person1#: Credit card. I don't like to pay in cash because it's quite inconvenient.
#Person2#: OK, I see.
#Person1#: Oh, by the way, my doctor advised me not to eat any meat. Last time I had a special salad plate. I'd like to have it again this time.
#Person2#: I'm sorry, I'm not able to do that. Otherwise, we would need 24-hours notice for special meals. Here is your ticket.
#Person1#: Thank you. Oh, my! I forgot to bring my credit card. Let me see. Oh, fortunately there is enough cash in my wallet.

Summary: #Person1# wants a ticket to New York and asks for a special salad plate but #Person2# can't offer that. #Person1#'ll pay by cash.


#Person1#: Anna, your wedding day is this weekend. Are you ready?
#Person2#: Yeah, I think so, except for one thing. I'm supposed to wear some special things to the wedding for good luck.
#Person1#: I've thought you were planning to wear a wedding dress.
#Person2#: I am of course, but it says that to have a happy marriage, I have to wear something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue.
#Person1#: I've never heard about that. So what are you going to wear?
#Person2#: Well, for something old, I'm wearing my grandmother's diamond ring. And my wedding dresse is something new and I'm wearing blue flowers in my hair.
#Person1#: OK. That's something old, new, and blue. You still need something borrowed.
#Person2#: Yeah, I just don't know what though.
#Person1#: Hey! How 'bout this? It's my lucky coin. I always wear it inside my shoe when I need good luck. You can borrow it and put it in your shoe during the wedding.
#Person2#: Oh, thanks. Now I'm ready for my wedding day.

Summary: Anna tells #Person1# she needs to wear something special for her wedding. She's prepared everthing except something borrowed. And #Person1# lends her #Person1#'s lucky coin.


#Person1#: Hi. Can I help you with anything today?
#Person2#: Yeah. I need some new running shoes.
#Person1#: Okay, what type of running are you doing? I mean are you preparing for a road race or do you need some trail shoes? We have them all.
#Person2#: I need some street shoes, and I need them to make me run fast, I mean real, real fast.
#Person1#: Well, sir, how fast you run depends on many things and ...
#Person2#: But, you don't understand. You see, I've been dating this woman, and well, I kind of told her that I'm a pretty good runner, and uh ...
#Person1#: Well, how much, how much do you run? 10Ks, marathons? What exactly are you doing?
#Person2#: Well, I don't really run. I mean I run out to get the newspaper in the morning. Listen, I twisted the truth a little.
#Person1#: Um, yeah, I's say. Well, how much does she run?
#Person2#: Uh, she's completed, I think, about 20 marathons, all under three hours.
#Person1#: Ah, man, you're toast. You're in some serious hot water. The only good new shoes will do for you is to kick yourself for not having been honest with her. Just fess up with her.
#Person2#: Ah, ah, I think I have a leg cramp coming on. Believable?
#Person1#: Forget it. She won't buy that story. Just be frank with her and apologize. She may or may not accept your apology, but at least you can look at yourself in the mirror and recognize that you told the truth. That way, you can live with yourself another day.
#Person2#: Yeah. I realize that now.
#Person1#: Hey, here's one idea. Tell her the truth and she what she says. If she forgives you and you really want to start running, then I suggest signing up for the 5K race we are sponsoring next month. This can get you started on a new path to fitness and a positive relationship.
#Person2#: And if she doesn't forgive me?
#Person1#: Well, that's just the consequence of not telling the truth.

Summary: #Person2# wants to buy some street shoes that can help him run really fast as he lied to a woman that he's a pretty good runner. #Person1# serves him and suggests he tell her the truth and sign up for a race next month to start a positive relationship.


#Person1#: Were you a leader when you were in college?
#Person2#: Yes. I was Propaganda department minister of our university.
#Person1#: Did you get any honors or awards at your university?
#Person2#: No. It ' s a pity about it.
#Person1#: Were you involved in any club activities at your university?
#Person2#: Yes. I was a member of the basketball Society. I like playing basketball.
#Person1#: What extracurricular activities did you usually take part in at your college?
#Person2#: I sometimes played basketball and sometimes played football.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2# was Propaganda department minister and played basketball in college.


#Person1#: We've been waiting here for nearly ten minutes now, and there still isn't a bus in sight.
#Person2#: I'm afraid we'll be late for the party.
#Person1#: Have you got the time, Tom?
#Person2#: Yes, my watch says a quarter to seven. but there is something wrong with my watch!
#Person1#: But you bought it only last month.
#Person2#: Yes, but ever since I bought it, it gains about five minutes a day, so I ' Ve got to have it repaired.
#Person1#: How long will it take us to get there?
#Person2#: I think about ten minutes by bus.
#Person1#: It's not far away, then. Let's walk, it's beginning to rain.
#Person2#: Wait! I think I see a bus coming now. Let's hope it's the No. 22 bus.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# wait for the No. 22 bus to go to the party. They are afraid they will be late for the party.


#Person1#: Broadway Mall is having a big sale this weekend. You wanna go?
#Person2#: Don't feel like it. I'm broke.
#Person1#: Well, we can still do some window shopping, can't we?
#Person2#: Just look around? Ah, that's boring.
#Person1#: I'll go myself then.

Summary: #Person1# invites #Person2# to Broadway Mall but #Person2# refuses.


#Person1#: What ' s on TV tonight?
#Person2#: Not much, that new reality-TV show, Ally McNeal, oooo, Dark Angel.
#Person1#: Wait a second. I want to watch Ally McNeal.
#Person2#: Oh, come on. That ' s such a girl ' s show.
#Person1#: No it ' s not. It ' s just funny.
#Person2#: Yeah, if you ' re a girl.
#Person1#: Well, you just want to watch Dark Angel because of the hot girl.
#Person2#: That ' s not true. Dark Angel is a good show.
#Person1#: It ' s story is just an excuse to get the girl dressed up in different tight outfits.
#Person2#: O. K . , O. K. Let ' s forget it. There ' s a football game on too.
#Person1#: No way. I ' m watching Ally McNeal. Go to John ' s to watch the game.

Summary: #Person1# wants to watch Ally McNeal but #Person2# thinks it's a girl's show. #Person1# refuses #Person2#'s suggestion of watching a football game and insists on watching Ally McNeal.


#Person1#: I've read your report, and I'm not sure I agree with you. You think you can get attendance improved by requiring salaried employees to take their all of their sick days?
#Person2#: That's right. I know it must sound crazy to you, but we believe there will be fewer absences this way.
#Person1#: We give them 10 or 15 sick days per year. Surely requiring people to take them couldn't possibly help. It sounds like a counter - productive policy change to me.
#Person2#: Right now, we have incentives encouraging employees to come to work as often as possible. But employees with colds and the flu are coming to work and infecting their colleagues.
#Person1#: I see. So our current policies are encouraging sick people to come to work, resulting in more sick employees.
#Person2#: That's right. If sick days were mandatory, sick people would stay home. We wouldn't have these company-wide epidemics.
#Person1#: Let's give it a shot!

Summary: #Person2# thinks attendance can be improved by requiring sick employees stay home so that they won't infect others. #Person1# doesn't understand at first but then #Person1# decides to try it.


#Person1#: Sarah, what did you do today?
#Person2#: I went shopping.
#Person1#: Did you buy anything?
#Person2#: Yes, I bought a few things.
#Person1#: What did you buy?
#Person2#: I bought this coat. Do you like it?
#Person1#: Yeah, I like it a lot. It's very pretty. Where did you buy it?
#Person2#: At the mall on 5th street.
#Person1#: Was it expensive?
#Person2#: No, it wasn't expensive. It was on sale for 20 dollars.
#Person1#: That's cheap.
#Person2#: I know. It was a really good deal.
#Person1#: I don't think you'll need to wear it for a while. It's been really hot lately.

Summary: Sarah went shopping today and bought a $20 coat but #Person1# thinks she doesn't need the coat because of the hot weather.


#Person1#: Taxi.
#Person2#: Yes. Where would you like to go?
#Person1#: Central Park, please, but can you make a stop at Union Square? I wanna pick up my friend there.
#Person2#: Of course.
#Person1#: How long do you think it will take to get to Union Square.
#Person2#: Well. That depends on traffic, you know. It's pretty heavy this afternoon.
#Person1#: Can you make it in 15 mins. I am already 10 mins late.
#Person2#: I'll try. Where exactly is your friend waiting?
#Person1#: On the 14th Street side. Oh, we are already at the 16th Street. You are fast. Can you make a left at the next corner?
#Person2#: You've got it.
#Person1#: I think he is around here. Can you slow down? Ah, there he is.
#Person2#: Here we are, Central Park!
#Person1#: Thank you. How much is it?
#Person2#: Well, it's $12.
#Person1#: Here's $15. Keep the change.
#Person2#: Thank you.

Summary: #Person1# takes a taxi to go to Central Park. #Person1# is in a rush and #Person2# makes it there fast. #Person1# pays and tells #Person2# to keep the change.


#Person1#: Jim is a genius. He gets along well with everybody and he can always get the work done.
#Person2#: A boss likes him a lot. He says Jim is a good team player.
#Person1#: Everybody would like to have Jim on their team. Because he is funny and helpful and he can contribute a lot to the team he belongs to.
#Person2#: Maybe we all should learn something from him.
#Person1#: Right.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# talk about Jim who is funny, helpful and contributes to the team.


#Person1#: Now, what seems to be the trouble?
#Person2#: It's nothing serious. But I always have a headache, and I haven't slept properly for several weeks. I've also lost appetite and my eyes are burning.
#Person1#: Mm, you do look rather pale. Let me take your temperature. Would you put the thermometer under your arm, please? Now, let me listen to your pulse. Mm, do you feel weak?
#Person2#: Yes, I never seem to have any energy.
#Person1#: I'll give you a blood test. Would you roll up your sleeve? Just as I thought. You're anemic. You'd better pay more attention to your diet. Eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and food high in protein. And don't stay up late working. Try to get more rest.
#Person2#: Thank you.

Summary: #Person2# describes #Person2#'s symptoms to #Person1#. #Person1# gives #Person2# some tests and diagnoses #Person2# as anemic. #Person1# provides some advice to #Person2#.


#Person1#: Hey, that's a really nice outfit you have on.
#Person2#: Thank you. I wasn't sure if it looked okay or not.
#Person1#: Oh, you look stunning. Your dress really goes well with your shoes.
#Person2#: I'm glad that you think so. I thought it might be a bit too revealing.
#Person1#: No, not at all. It looks really classy on you. Where did you pick that up?
#Person2#: I got it on sale down at the department store.
#Person1#: When did you go there?
#Person2#: I was just there a couple of days ago. You know, you should go down there too. They have a lot of stylish clothes on sale.
#Person1#: I might just do that. What style of clothes do they have?
#Person2#: Anything you want. They have both casual and formal styles.
#Person1#: I was hoping to get a few new ties for my collection.
#Person2#: That's a good idea.

Summary: #Person1# appreciates #Person2#'s new outfit. #Person2# tells #Person1# that #Person2# got the dress at the department store. #Person1# will go there and buy some new ties.


#Person1#: Morning, Mr. Roberts, have you been to that new shop in the High Street.
#Person2#: Good morning, Mrs. White. Yes, I just thought I pop in and browse around, seeing if there is anything I like. I must say I'm very impressed. They have a very good literature section and there is a little care where you can go and read a book in peace.
#Person1#: Have they got any nice love stories? That's what I really like, a bit of romance and excitement.

Summary: Mr. Roberts finds the new shop has a good literature section. Mrs. White wonders if they have nice love stories.


#Person1#: Honey, what's all our stuff doing in the driveway.
#Person2#: It's a Newsday Spring cleanup sale. For only $19. 95 we can put a two line classified ad in Newsday for 7 days and with over 2 million readers will get results fast.
#Person1#: 2 lines all editions for only $19. 95? That's more than 50% savings off their regular rate. But if Newsday is having a clean up cell, why does our driveway look like a market?
#Person2#: Because there's never been a better time for us to turn the things we don't use into cash we can use.
#Person1#: You mean appliances, jewelry, furniture exercise equipment?
#Person2#: Even your old guitar.
#Person1#: 2 lines, all the additions for only $19. 95? Are you sure?
#Person2#: Of course I'm sure. I called Rudy.
#Person1#: Who's Rudy?
#Person2#: He's a classified Newsday sales consultant. He was really nice and helpful.
#Person1#: More than 50% off and friendly service. Newsday really does have all we need.
#Person2#: Yeah, he is my 2 line add, clean up with Newsday family stuff, including appliances, jewelry and furniture. Kohler said 5168433000. \
#Person1#: That sounds great.
#Person2#: Now listen again, please.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# about the Newsday Spring cleanup sale. They decide to turn some appliances, jewelry, and furniture exercise equipment that they don't use into cash.


#Person1#: Shouldn't you already be in bed?
#Person2#: I can't sleep. I'm really not all that tired.
#Person1#: You need to get some rest, as you have to get up early in the morning.
#Person2#: It's impossible for me to get to sleep right now.
#Person1#: Just close your eyes, and try not to think.
#Person2#: That really does not work for me.
#Person1#: It doesn't matter, you need to get some sleep.
#Person2#: How about I tire myself out, and then fall asleep when I'm tired?
#Person1#: Then you're not going to go to sleep.
#Person2#: Don't worry, I'll make sure and get to sleep in a little while.
#Person1#: I want you in bed, right now, so sweet dreams.
#Person2#: Fine. Sleep well yourself.

Summary: #Person2# can't sleep right now but #Person1# insists that #Person2# should go to sleep as #Person2# has to get up early tomorrow.


#Person1#: Have we handed out all the water?
#Person2#: Yes. So what else to do now?
#Person1#: Nothing. The teacher said the only thing left was to get back all the disposable cups later.
#Person2#: I see. How do you like the game?
#Person1#: Terrific. There is one girl said, It is the best game I've ever watched.
#Person2#: Who do you think do better?
#Person1#: Clive was really outstanding. Not only he put on a big show himself, but also he inspired the whole team.
#Person2#: Exactly. He is unbelievable.
#Person1#: On the other hand, I think the other team won everyone's respect. The leader said they could have crumpled at the beginning, but they just carried on and never lost their cool.
#Person2#: They were really tough.
#Person1#: The thing I like most about them is that they did not play with a heavy heart even though at that time the odds seemed to be against them.
#Person2#: I can't agree more. Okay, time is up. Let's do the last thing.

Summary: #Person1# thinks Clive's performance was excellent and #Person1# likes other teams' performance in the face of failure. #Person1# thinks they deserve respect. #Person2# agrees.


#Person1#: Who was that guy you were talking to at the bar? It looked like he was hitting on you.
#Person2#: Yeah, we struck up a conversation, and eventually he asked me out. I gave him my number, but I'm not sure if I'll actually go out with him.
#Person1#: Oh? How come?
#Person2#: He's nice, but I just don't feel like we have much chemistry, so I don't want to lead him on.
#Person1#: Well, don't be too quick to judge. My last boyfriend and I didn't hit it off right away, I only started to fall for him after we went out a few times and I got to know him better. We were together for 3 years.
#Person2#: So why'd you split up? If you don't mind my asking.
#Person1#: Not at all. We just started to drift apart, different interests, different plans for the future. The breakup was mutual.
#Person2#: Ah, that's great. My last relationship was a nightmare, I hooked up with a guy at a New Year's party and we were together for six months, but we were constantly fighting and making up. I don't know how I put up with him for so long.
#Person1#: How'd it end?
#Person2#: He cheated on me, I caught him making out with his ex. He begged me for another chance, but I know he was just trying to jerk me around, so I said no.
#Person1#: Ugh! Good for you.
#Person2#: Thanks. So how about you, are you going out with anyone at the moment?
#Person1#: Oh, I've gone on a few dates here and there, but nothing serious. To be honest, I'm not really interested in settling down just yet, I'm enjoying the single life too much.

Summary: #Person2# doesn't feel like she has chemistry with a guy. #Person1# advises her not to be too quick to judge because #Person1#'s last boyfriend and #Person1# didn't hit it off at first but then they fell in love. Then #Person2# says her last relationship is a nightmare, her last boyfriend cheated on her.


#Person1#: There are something wrong with my computer.
#Person2#: Really, what's wrong with it?
#Person1#: The computer doesn't work when I push the power botton.
#Person2#: Oh, do you use your computer often?
#Person1#: Yes, I don't know why it doesn't work this time.
#Person2#: Don't worry. Have you got receipt with you?
#Person1#: Yeah!
#Person2#: We'll go to your house and repair it on Tuesday. Ok?
#Person1#: OK, I'll expected you around 2 o'clock?
#Person2#: See you then.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2#'s computer is broken. #Person2# will repair it at 2 pm on Tuesday.


#Person1#: Let's see now. Cut the potatoes into small cubes.
#Person2#: Yes, but don't cut them yet. Wait until they cool. Where is the big plastic bowl?
#Person1#: On the bottom shelf in the cupboard under the sink.
#Person2#: What's Donna like, by the way?
#Person1#: Donna? Well. She is about 20. She is very lovely and I think you will like her. What about Paul?
#Person2#: Oh, Paul is very easy-going and friendly.
#Person1#: Could you get me the pepper from the cupboard?
#Person2#: Yes, sure. Which cupboard is it in?
#Person1#: It's in the small one beside the cooker.
#Person2#: There is no pepper here.
#Person1#: Oh, there Isn't? Oh, no.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are doing cooking together while talking about Donna and Paul casually.


#Person1#: I'd like to have a berth ticket to Shanghai.
#Person2#: Which train do you want?
#Person1#: The 19:00 train.
#Person2#: Sorry. There aren't any tickets available for the 19:00 train.
#Person1#: When is the next train to Shanghai?
#Person2#: The next train will leave at 20 : O5.
#Person1#: How much is the ticket?
#Person2#: 180 yuan.
#Person1#: Here is 200 yuan.
#Person2#: Here are your ticket and change.

Summary: #Person2# helps #Person1# to buy a berth ticket to Shanghai leaving at 20:05.


#Person1#: Good morning. I need to speak with the property manager, please.
#Person2#: Good morning. You are speaking to the property manager.
#Person1#: While it was raining last night, water started leaking in from the ceiling.
#Person2#: Was it leaking in the bedroom?
#Person1#: It was in the living room.
#Person2#: Can you tell me which floor you are on?
#Person1#: We are on the bottom floor.
#Person2#: I would like to look at the leak. Will you be home this morning?
#Person1#: Yes, someone will be here to let you in.
#Person2#: Just in case you have to leave, we will just use the master key.

Summary: #Person1# tells the property manager that water leaked in the living room when raining last night. The property manager will go to check it.


#Person1#: What is your favorite coffee?
#Person2#: Irish coffee is my favorite. But I'm not particular on it.
#Person1#: All right. Would you make coffee yourself when you are at home?
#Person2#: Not very often. Making coffee is a bit troublesome. Most of the time, I just buy takeout at Starbucks. And also, I quite like instant coffee.
#Person1#: I think instant coffee is becoming more and more popular. Though its taste is not perfect, it's really cheap and convenient.
#Person2#: Exactly. Nescafe is the world's favorite coffee. People love it all over the world.
#Person1#: I agree. I heard that in the western countries, almost everyone likes coffee. Is that true?
#Person2#: Yes. No doubt about that. For us, coffee is more a living style rather than a simple drink. I heard Chinese people don't drink that much coffee.
#Person1#: No, we don't, especially the elder people. But more and more young people fall for coffee nowadays.
#Person2#: I suppose so. That's probably why there are so many wonderful coffee houses in China now.

Summary: #Person2# likes Irish coffee and buys takeout at Starbucks. #Person1# and #Person2# talk about the advantages of instant coffee and Western and Chinese people's attitudes towards coffee.


#Person1#: Excuse me, could you tell me how much is the lipstick?
#Person2#: It costs only 25 yuan.
#Person1#: Oh, it's too expensive. Can't you make it any cheaper?
#Person2#: The price is reasonable because the quality is super.
#Person1#: But the price is too high.
#Person2#: How much would you like it to be, then?
#Person1#: What about 15 yuan?
#Person2#: Let's meet half way, 20 yuan, OK?
#Person1#: All right, I'll take it.
#Person2#: I think you've got a real bargain.
#Person1#: Thank you.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# bargain over a lipstick. They make a deal at 20 yuan.


#Person1#: So, where is this bus supposed to take us?
#Person2#: It should take us back up to Altadena.
#Person1#: Well, don't you know for sure?
#Person2#: I'm not really sure if it does or not.
#Person1#: Are you sure we got on the right bus?
#Person2#: I've never taken this bus, but I think it's the right one.
#Person1#: This place doesn't look like Altadena.
#Person2#: That's true, and we have been on this bus for a while.
#Person1#: Read one of the street signs or something.
#Person2#: Yikes! Temple City.
#Person1#: That's the last time I'm trusting you with the transportation.
#Person2#: My bad, but at least we know the right bus to take us back.

Summary: #Person1# doubts if they are on the right bus to Altadena. Then #Person2# finds out that they took the wrong one.


#Person1#: Look at this, A Brief Introduction of Hollywood.
#Person2#: Hackneyed theme!
#Person1#: What? How much do you know Hollywood?
#Person2#: Nearly everything.
#Person1#: You are full of boasts. I can examine you by question and answer. What is Hollywood? Where is it? What is the function of it?
#Person2#: Too easy questions. Listen carefully. Hollywood is the movie capital of the world. It is located in southern California. Many films have been made there, and the kinds have changed often.
#Person1#: Not bad. What kind of film did it produce from the ready to mid 1930's
#Person2#: Gangster movies. Movie-goers at that time could get a look at the people involved in crime and their violent activities by watching it.
#Person1#: Mm. What came after that?
#Person2#: After all that violence, people needed to laugh, so from the mid-to-late l940's, many detective movies about policemen who solved crimes were made. Then came musicals.
#Person1#: Pretty good. Please continue.
#Person2#: Right. By the mid - 50's, this light-hearted genre was competing with films about more serious subjects. There was one kind that could be found throughout all of these years, and that was the, mm, the. . .
#Person1#: The western films about America's cowboys, Indians and early settlers.
#Person2#: Come on.
#Person1#: Since the early 1960's, there are horror movies about people who encounter frightening, unnatural situations, and serious films such as documentarist about events that actually happened, and science fiction movies about possible friture and future worlds. Some people have also enjoyed watching psycho-dramas about the everyday problems that people have.
#Person2#: Any more?
#Person1#: Of course, no list of film would be complete without animated movies. These are especially popular among children.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# that #Person2# knows nearly everything about Hollywood. #Person1# then examines #Person2# by question and answer. #Person2# introduces some basic information of Hollywood and the movies that Hollywood produces in different times. #Person1# helps #Person2# add to the answer.


#Person1#: Veronica! Veronica! Veronica! Are you OK?
#Person2#: Steven! What's going on! Who were those guys? I didn't know you have a gun! What's going on!
#Person1#: I will come clean as soon as we get to safety, OK? For now, you have to trust me, please! I would never do anything to hurt you.
#Person2#: Steven, I. . .
#Person1#: I haven't been completely honest with you Veronica, I'm sorry. I'm not a fireman. I'm not even from the United States. I'm a spy for the Indian government.
#Person2#: What? Why didn't you tell me before? What are you doing here?
#Person1#: When I was a young boy, I used to play cricket my father back in my hometown of Hyderabad. It was a peaceful town, and my father was a renowned chemist. One day, he was approached by members of the CIA, claiming that my father had made the discovery of the millennium in his small lab back at the university where he taught bio-chemistry. I never saw him again. I vowed to discover the whereabouts of my father and consequently joined the Indian Intelligence Bureau.
#Person2#: What does that have to do with those men shooting at us? Most importantly, why did you lie to me!
#Person1#: I'm sorry, I wasn't supposed to meet you. I wasn't supposed to fall in love with you, but you have to believe me when I tell you that what I feel for you is real.
#Person2#: I can't believe this! Why are all these things happening to me! I can't take it anymore! Let me out of the car!
#Person1#: Veronica, wait!

Summary: During a gunfight, Steven tells Veronica the truth that Steven is a spy of the Indian government, aiming to discover his father's whereabouts but falling in love with Veronica. Veronica can't take this and wants to leave him.


#Person1#: Do you want your television repaired?
#Person2#: Yes, but not by the man you suggested.
#Person1#: Why not? The repairmen are very good and the charges are so reasonable.
#Person2#: That may be, but I couldn't find the place.
#Person1#: But you couldn't miss it. I told you it is at the first right after the railroad bridge.
#Person2#: I took that. I went to the end of the road. There is no such place.
#Person1#: Wait a minute. Perhaps it is the second right. Yes, I think it is.
#Person2#: I should have known, whenever someone says 'You can't miss it', you can be sure that you won't find it.

Summary: #Person2# cannot find the place of the repairman suggested by #Person1# and #Person1# finds that #Person1# told #Person2# the wrong way.


#Person1#: Are you going to helen's birthday party on Friday evening?
#Person2#: I wouldn't miss it for the world! It's sure to be fun. She's invited a lot of people. Do you think everyone will be able to get into her house?
#Person1#: If everyone turned up, it would be a squeeze. But a few people said that they couldn't go. So I think it should be OK?
#Person2#: Are you taking anything?
#Person1#: I'Ve got her a birthday present and I'll take a bottle fo wine too.
#Person2#: That's a good idea. She told me that she had bought plenty of food and snacks. I think it's going to be a noisy party. I hope her neighbors don't mind too much.
#Person1#: Helen gets on very well with her neighbors. I wouldn't be surprised if they went to the party too.
#Person2#: I'm really looking forward to it. This party is going to be a blast!
#Person1#: Well, don't be late. I'll see you on Friday at helen's.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are going to Helen's birthday party this Friday evening. They talk about things they will take and the food at the party. They are looking forward to it.


#Person1#: Guess what I'll be doing this summer?
#Person2#: What?
#Person1#: I'm going to work at the Riverside Hotel.
#Person2#: What exactly will you be doing?
#Person1#: Let's see. I'll be doing some small repairs inside and outside the hotel. I'll be cutting grass and taking care of the flowers.
#Person2#: Sounds interesting. What's the pay?
#Person1#: Well, uh...about fifteen dollars an hour, five hours a day, and Sunday free.
#Person2#: That's good money. What are you going to do with it?
#Person1#: I'll pay for the textbooks for next term.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# #Person1# will work at a hotel this summer and use the salary to pay for the textbooks.


#Person1#: Say, Anna, what are you doing tonight? Would you like to go out?
#Person2#: Oh, sorry, I can't. I'm going to work late tonight. I have to finish this report.
#Person1#: Well, how about tomorrow night? Are you doing anything then?
#Person2#: No, I'm not. What are you planning to do?
#Person1#: I'm going to see a musical. Would you like to come?
#Person2#: Sure, I'd love to! But let me pay for the tickets this time. It's my turn.
#Person1#: All right! Thanks!

Summary: Anna decides to go out seeing a musical with #Person1# tomorrow since she is busy tonight.


#Person1#: Miss Fallen, can you tell me why you want to get a visa to the States?
#Person2#: To study. I am going to the University of Tampa to do a postgraduate course for three years.
#Person1#: And do you have the Letter of Acceptance from the University with you?
#Person2#: Yes, here it is.
#Person1#: Thank you very much. And do you have any proof of the financial support for the three years?
#Person2#: I've got a letter from my bank here. It shows I am able to support myself during these three years of studies.
#Person1#: Could I see that, please?
#Person2#: Yes, here it is.
#Person1#: Thanks very much. Well, I'll be able to give you a visa for one year, a student visa, that is.
#Person2#: Oh, but mine is a three-year program.
#Person1#: Yes, it is a three-year, but you can renew the visa each year in the States. It is our usual procedure.
#Person2#: Okay, thank you.

Summary: #Person1# interviews Miss Fallen for her visa application and finally approves the application. #Person1# reminds Miss Fallen to renew the visa each year in the Satates.


#Person1#: We're having a tailgate party I before the game. Would you like to join us?
#Person2#: Okay. But what is a tailgate party?
#Person1#: Someone brings a truck to the game and we have a barbecue right there in the parking lot out of the back of the truck!
#Person2#: How fun! Can I bring something?
#Person1#: Don't worry about it! Just come at five.
#Person2#: I make a mean potato salad!
#Person1#: Well, if you insist, you are welcome to bring a potato salad!
#Person2#: Then I'll see you in the parking lot at five! Thank you!

Summary: #Person1# invites #Person2# to the tailgate party. #Person2# will make and bring a potato salad to the party.


#Person1#: This is our main service area. We do all the routine services here and have two full-time mechanics.
#Person2#: How often do you service the vans?
#Person1#: They're serviced regularly. We give them a basic service every 10, 000 km or so and a main service once a year, or every 100, 000 km.
#Person2#: I see. What does the service involve?
#Person1#: Well, the same as for private vehicles really, but we do it more often because they get a lot of wear and tear.
#Person2#: Can you carry out major repairs here?
#Person1#: Yes, we've got all the necessary equipment. We can give the engines a major overhaul. If there's a serious problem, we strip down the engine and find the faulty component. Would you like to look around?

Summary: #Person1# introduces their main service area to #Person2# and tells #Person2# about their service.


#Person1#: Can I help you, madam?
#Person2#: Yes, I'm looking for a new winter coat.
#Person1#: Have you any particular color in mind?
#Person2#: I don't know really. What's the fashional color this year?
#Person1#: Red is very popular.
#Person2#: Good. Red suits me very well. It's a cheerful color, isn't it?
#Person1#: Yes, madam, I agree. What size are you?
#Person2#: Well, I used to be size fourteen, but I've put on a bit of weight recently, so may be sixteen.
#Person1#: Here you are, madam. All these are sixteens.
#Person2#: I quite like this one. How much is it?
#Person1#: It's $180.
#Person2#: Oh, that's too expensive. Aren't there any cheaper ones?
#Person1#: These are our cheapest coats, madam.
#Person2#: Yes, I see. I'll take it. Here's $200.
#Person1#: Here's your change.
#Person2#: Thank you.

Summary: #Person2# wants to buy a winter coat and #Person1# recommends a red one. #Person2# buys it in size sixteen for $180.


#Person1#: Can you show me how to use this phone?
#Person2#: Yes, I can help you with that. Pick up the receiver and hit one of the buttons. Do you hear a tone?
#Person1#: No, I don't hear anything.
#Person2#: Next you dial 9 on the keypad. You should hear the tone change. Did you hear it change?
#Person1#: I'm not sure.
#Person2#: OK. Well, after you get the line to change you have an outside line. Who are you trying to call?
#Person1#: I am trying to call a client.
#Person2#: To call a number on the outside you now just dial the number. For inside calls, punch in the extension number. Has someone given you an extension list?
#Person1#: No, I don't know anyone's extension.
#Person2#: All of the extensions are listed on the wall chart over there if you ever need help.

Summary: #Person2# shows #Person1# how to use the phone to make outside and inside calls.


#Person1#: Oh, damn. There's another traffic jam on the highway.
#Person2#: How can there be a traffic jam on a 16-lane highway every day?
#Person1#: There are just too many people, and too many cars.
#Person2#: I wonder if there was an accident.
#Person1#: No, they just said it too many people were trying to get off at the Capitol exits.
#Person2#: Well, let's put on some music. We're going to be stuck in this for a while.
#Person1#: All right, what do you want to listen to?
#Person2#: How about some Beatles?
#Person1#: Yeah, all right.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are stuck in a traffic jam on the highway. They start to play some music.


#Person1#: Are the ceremony and reception held in the same place?
#Person2#: No, not usually. Most people are married in a church, and then the wedding party and guests go to another place for the reception. Sometimes, however, they hold the reception in a big room in the church.
#Person1#: Where do they go?
#Person2#: Either they go to a public place such as a hotel, a restaurant, or a club, or to the home of the bride.
#Person1#: They go to the home of the bride?
#Person2#: Why do you ask?
#Person1#: The Chinese custom is to go to the groom's home-just the opposite.
#Person2#: Oh! In our country the bride's family is responsible for the entire wedding-arrangement, costs, etc. So the reception is held at her home.
#Person1#: That's very expensive for the family of the bride.
#Person2#: Many American furthers joke that they would rather hold the ladder for their daughter to climb down and elope than pay for a wedding.
#Person1#: Tell me something about the bridal bouquet. Isn't it the custom to throw it?
#Person2#: Yes. When the bride and groom are ready to leave on their honeymoon all the single girls gather in one place. The bride stands with her back to them and throws her bouquet over her shoulder and they each try to catch it. The one who does will be the next one married.
#Person1#: Maybe I'll be the one.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# in American the wedding ceremony and reception are usually held in different places and receptions are sometimes held in the bride's home. The bride's family is responsible for the entire wedding-arrangement, which is expensive. They also believe the one catches the bouquet will be the next one married.


#Person1#: Excuse me, I'm mailing this package to Japan.
#Person2#: Alright. Fill out this form about the contents and value. Do you want to insure it?
#Person1#: I don't think so. It's only some books.
#Person2#: Are you sending it surface mail or airmail?
#Person1#: Airmail, please.
#Person2#: OK. That's $25.
#Person1#: Here's $30.
#Person2#: Alright. Here's your change.
#Person1#: Thanks. Oh, I almost forgot. Could you tell me how long it'll take to reach Japan?
#Person2#: Let's see. Japan, it should be there in 2 weeks.
#Person1#: Thank you very much.
#Person2#: Sure.

Summary: #Person2# helps #Person1# airmail a package to Japan and tells #Person1# it should arrive in two weeks.


#Person1#: Bob!
#Person2#: Anne! I haven't seen you for ages. How've you been?
#Person1#: Fine, just fine. And you?
#Person2#: Not bad. It really is great to see you again. W here have you been?
#Person1#: Guangzhou. I've got a cousin there.

Summary: Bob and Anne meet each other and share their recent status.


#Person1#: Hey honey! Where were you?
#Person2#: I decided to take Kenny to the park and get some fresh air.
#Person1#: How was it? Were there a lot of kids?
#Person2#: It wasn't too crowded, but we had a great time! We got on the see-saw together, then went on a couple of different slides and then I tried to go with him in the jungle gym, but I didn't fit.
#Person1#: Sounds like fun! When we go he always just likes to play in the sandbox.
#Person2#: Yeah, but today he was really hyper. He even got on the monkey bars and then he went on to go on the swings for a half hour. I'm exhausted!
#Person1#: You should go to the park more often since you don't go to the gym anymore!

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# that #Person2# took Kenny to the park and played the see-saw and slides. Kenny was hyper but #Person2# is exhausted.


#Person1#: Hey Jackie. What are you doing?
#Person2#: Nothing much. I'm just relaxing today. Why? What's going on?
#Person1#: I was thinking about heading to the mall. Do you want to go?
#Person2#: Are they having a sale?
#Person1#: Yeah. Both Bon and Nordstrom's is having there annual sale. It's a great time to buy some clothes you've been holding out on.
#Person2#: That sounds great. Where should we meet?
#Person1#: I'll meet you in front of Nordstrom's in 30 minutes.
#Person2#: Sounds good. See you there.
#Person1#: What do you think about these shoes?
#Person2#: They're cute. But do you think you'll wear them much?
#Person1#: No. Not really.
#Person2#: This sweater is so pretty. I love the low neck design.
#Person1#: I bet it's expensive.
#Person2#: It's on sale for $ 80. What do you think? Should I try it on?
#Person1#: For 80 bucks it looks great. Go try it on.

Summary: #Person1# invites Jackie to buy some clothes at Nordstrom's where is having the annual sale. A sweater catches Jackie's fancy so #Person1# asks Jackie to try it on.


#Person1#: We are so excited to have you here, Miss Calvin. Thank you for answering some questions and for signing our customers books.
#Person2#: No problem. I love meeting the people who read my books.
#Person1#: So how did you think of the idea for this book?
#Person2#: About 4 years ago, I was taking my dog for a walk. When I saw a very beautiful bird, I started thinking about birds and decided to read about them at the library. I became very interested in birds, and that's how I decided to create the main character in my book. He is a scientist who studies birds.
#Person1#: How long did it take you to write the book?
#Person2#: I wrote the book in about 2 years. I only spent 3 months thinking of the story, but it took much longer to write it.
#Person1#: Do you ever worry you won't be able to think of another idea for a book?
#Person2#: All the time, but I always think of more ideas as soon as I finish with the book I'm writing. Reading the newspaper helps me think of ideas. Taking long showers also helps me think of ideas.

Summary: Miss Calvin shares how she thought of the idea for her book. She wrote this book in about 2 years. She also talks about how she usually gets inspired for new books.


#Person1#: Jessica is going back to Holland next week. I've been thinking a lot about what to give her as a parting gift, but I still have no clue.
#Person2#: is that the girl you spent almost every weekend with?
#Person1#: yeah, that's her. We had a lot of wonderful times together. She is really a special friend, and I want to get her something meaningful.
#Person2#: I am not good at picking gifts. Maybe you can ask if there's anything she needs to make it easier?
#Person1#: I don't think so. That way it would lose all the charm. I want it to be a surprise. I want to show her that I care about her and I hope our friendship will last.
#Person2#: yeah, that's nice.
#Person1#: hmm, I think I've got an idea. Maybe I can get her an ever-green plant to take back home.
#Person2#: a plant? That's creative. I'm sure ever time she waters it she'll think of you. But there is a problem. Do you think it'll be able to go through the customs?
#Person1#: I hope so. I'll make sure to get a small one so she can put it into her suitcase. I hope it won't cause her trouble at the border.
#Person2#: I don't know. I think the idea of a plant going across borders with a friend is really exciting but maybe seeds would be safer. You don't want to get her in trouble.

Summary: Jessica is a special friend to #Person1#. #Person1# wants to get her an evergreen plant as her parting gift, #Person2# thinks the idea is creative but seeds would be safer when going across borders.


#Person1#: John, I'd like to see you in my office for a minute.
#Person2#: Yes, sir, I'll be there in just a moment.
#Person1#: John, I have been watching you. I've been paying attention to you over the last quarter and I'm impressed. You've done a tremendous job in tackling some difficult accounts. I just want to let you to know, after this month's performance reviews, I'm recommending you for promotion.
#Person2#: Gosh sir, thank you, sir! I had no idea there were any positions opening up in our department.
#Person1#: Well, it's not going to be in our department. I've recommended you for an interdepartmental transfer. There's supervisory spot opening up in financial. I'm turning your name in for it.
#Person2#: Management? Wow, I had no idea I could move so quickly from entry level to managerial staff.
#Person1#: You've earned it.

Summary: #Person1# tells John that he has done a great job so #Person1# is recommending him for promotion. John is surprised and grateful.


#Person1#: why are there still so many people overweight despite the current fitness craze?
#Person2#: well, there are certain factors that effect people's size and weight.
#Person1#: what are they?
#Person2#: one study said that low-income groups have a higher percentage of over-weight people than higher income families.
#Person1#: why?
#Person2#: the survey said that the low, income groups eat more junk food on a daily basis.
#Person1#: that makes sense. Probably less time to make dinner and the junk food is cheaper.
#Person2#: and junk food contains lots of fat and oil. There is one final reason why so many people are fat.
#Person1#: what's that?
#Person2#: nobody exercises anymore-not even kids! The average american home has the TV on for 6 hours a day!
#Person1#: wow! No wonder people are so fat. Say, Carl, looks like you could be doing a bit more exercising.
#Person2#: yeah, I guess so.
#Person1#: you should consider eating healthier food and getting some more exercise.
#Person2#: hey, I started a diet and lost 10 pounds.
#Person1#: so what happened?
#Person2#: well, I quit and gained it back plus 5 pounds.
#Person1#: you should have kept trying.

Summary: Carl tells #Person1# low-income people are more likely to get fat because they eat more junk food. #Person1# suggests Carl should eat healthier food and exercise more, and Carl says he started a diet but quitted.


#Person1#: What can I do for you?
#Person2#: I would like to have a roll developed.
#Person1#: When do you need them, sir?
#Person2#: How about tomorrow morning?
#Person1#: No problem. Do you want 3 x 5 or 4 x 6?
#Person2#: The 4 x6 will be OK. Thanks.
#Person1#: And do you want the glossy or matted finish?
#Person2#: I prefer glossy. How much?
#Person1#: You pay when you pick them up. I don't need a deposit for just one roll of film.
#Person2#: Thanks!

Summary: #Person1# helps #Person2# have a roll developed and asks #Person2# to pay when #Person2# picks up.


#Person1#: Dr. Brook, I just don't know what's wrong me. I always feel tired and weak. My wife finally persuaded me to visit you to find out what the trouble is.
#Person2#: From what is written here I can see that you had a very bad cold three years ago and that you also had a small operation last year. Did you have any bad effect after that?
#Person1#: Well, I don't remember.
#Person2#: For example, how long did you stay at home each time you were ill?
#Person1#: Just a couple of days, but about six months ago I was home for about two weeks with a cold or something.
#Person2#: Did you see a doctor at that time, or did you just stay at home?
#Person1#: No, I didn't see a doctor. When I began to feel better, I returned to work.
#Person2#: And when did you start feeling so tired again?
#Person1#: It must have been about ten days ago. When I came home from work one night, there just didn't seem to be any reason to go back the next day.
#Person2#: Well, it sounds as if your problem may be the kind of work you do. The tests I just made don't show anything really wrong. But I would like to make some further tests in the hospital.
#Person1#: That's fine with me.
#Person2#: All right, you can check in tonight and I'll make the tests tomorrow morning.

Summary: #Person1# always feels tired and weak and comes to visit Dr. Brook. #Person1# says he usually stays at home for several days when he's ill and once he stayed for two weeks without seeing a doctor. Brook will make some further tests.


#Person1#: Have you had enough time to look over the menu?
#Person2#: Yes, we are almost ready to order.
#Person1#: Let me remind you of the specials of the day, which are posted on the board.
#Person2#: Oh, that all sounds so good! Can we get the sauce on the side?
#Person1#: Yes, we would be happy to prepare the food to meet your special needs.
#Person2#: I was wondering if you have any vegetarian choices.
#Person1#: Yes, the roasted vegetable salad is good, and the portabella mushroom burger is also a good choice.
#Person2#: I think that I would like to order the broccoli noodles, please.
#Person1#: That is an excellent choice, and I could bring you your salads now or bring them with your dinner.
#Person2#: Please bring our salads to us now. We are hungry!

Summary: #Person1# introduces several dishes but #Person2# orders the broccoli noodles. And #Person2# asks #Person1# to bring the salad now.


#Person1#: Do you like climbing?
#Person2#: Yes, I like it very much.
#Person1#: How about climbing up the Fragrant Mountain tomorrow?
#Person2#: Where is it?
#Person1#: It is located at the east foot of Western Mountain of Beijing, in a park with the same name. There are some huge stones within the mountain which look like the censer, so it is called'Fragrant Mountain'.
#Person2#: Have you visited it before?
#Person1#: Many times. Except climbing, there are many attractions worth visiting.
#Person2#: Like what?
#Person1#: It is the best season to view red leaves from the Mid-October to the first ten days of November. During the period, thousands of hectares of maples on the sloping field are so red that you would recognize them as fallen petals by mistake if looking from a further area. The bright red, pink, scarlet, and peach-puff leaves are distributed in different layout, with some green pines and cypresses dotted in between.
#Person2#: Sounds marvelous.
#Person1#: You can take a bird-eye view at the glorious picture when you arrive at the top of the mountain.
#Person2#: Great. I will prepare some clothes and food for the climbing.

Summary: #Person1# proposes climbing up the Fragrant Mountain tomorrow and introduces it to #Person2#. #Person2# thinks it's great and will prepare some clothes and food.


#Person1#: Where do you think we should go on holiday this summer?
#Person2#: We, I'd like to go to Australia. I know it's far to go, but I think it would be something different and special.
#Person1#: I'd really like to go to the Caribbean. We can relax on the beached and enjoy the sunshine.
#Person2#: There are beaches in Australia too, but I would prefer a more active holiday this year. We could visit Ayers rock and the great barrier reef. It would be so exciting.
#Person1#: But would it be relaxing? By summer. I'll be quite tired from doing so much work. The last thing I need is to use more energy racing around Australia. I'd need another holiday to recover from the holiday!
#Person2#: Oh, come on! A tour of Australia would be relaxing because you'd be doing something different and not working.
#Person1#: Do you think so? I'm not so sure. Anyway, tell me your plans for an Australian holiday. How long do you think we should spend there?
#Person2#: I think we should go for two weeks. We could spend a week in the bush and a week at the great barrier reef-including a few day on the beach for tired office workers!
#Person1#: That doesn't sound too bad. I'd certainly like to go diving. That's one reason I wanted to go to the Caribbean.
#Person2#: We could hire a car and travel around the interior of Australia for several days. If we hire a car, we can go where we like.
#Person1#: We'd have to plan our drive before we leave. Let's get a good guidebook from the bookstore when we go shopping in town tomorrow.
#Person2#: It looks like I might have convinced you to go to Australia!

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# talk about where to go on holiday. #Person1# wants a more active holiday in Australia while #Person2# prefers a relaxing one in the Caribbean. Finally, #Person1# seems to be persuaded into going to Australia after listening to #Person2#'s plan.


#Person1#: Can I help you?
#Person2#: Yes, do you have any rooms available?
#Person1#: A single?
#Person2#: No. I need a double and three triples. My family is waiting for me in the car.
#Person1#: Please fill out this form, sir.
#Person2#: Ok. . . Here you are.
#Person1#: Here are your keys. Check out time is noon.
#Person2#: Is breakfast included?
#Person1#: No.

Summary: #Person2# checks in for a room for his family with #Person1#'s assistance.


#Person1#: do you like animals? I really like dogs.
#Person2#: so do i. I don't like cats.
#Person1#: why? I think cats are ok.
#Person2#: I can't bear being near cats. They don't seem to like me either.
#Person1#: I like wild animals. I don't like spiders and snakes. I think spiders and snakes are disgusting.
#Person2#: I'm fond of snakes. I think they're great. I agree with you about spiders though. I think spiders are horrible. I think it's because they have so many legs.
#Person1#: I think bears are wonderful. Pandas are fantastic. I low the people who kill them for their fur.
#Person2#: I agree. I'm carzy about mice. I think they're so cute!
#Person1#: really? I don't see the attraction. I'm afraid of mice.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are sharing their different attitudes towards different animals. They have opposite preferences of some animals, like snacks and mice.


#Person1#: I like that picture you put up on the wall yesterday.
#Person2#: Oh, thank you. It's a photograph that I took on my vacation last year.
#Person1#: You took it yourself? I didn't know you were a photographer.
#Person2#: Oh yes, I've been taking pictures for years.
#Person1#: It sounds interesting! Do you have anymore of your pictures here and may I see them?
#Person2#: Yes, certainly! Some of them are faces, just faces of People whom I see what I'm walking around.
#Person1#: Do you let them know that you're taking pictures of them?
#Person2#: I try not to? I don't like pictures of People who set themselves for the Camera. I like People who are going about their business without knowing the cameras there.
#Person1#: I suppose you need a lot of equipment. How many cameras do you have? Well I have a dozen of them, but I use two of them more than the others.

Summary: #Person1# compliments #Person2#'s photograph and #Person2# has been taking pictures for years. #Person1# asks #Person2# about the backgrounds when #Person2# took the pictures and the equipment #Person2# use.


#Person1#: Oh god! Look at the mess. Somebody's broken in. The back door's open.
#Person2#: They mustn't have got in that way. I locked it.
#Person1#: What about the windows? The bathroom window is open. Surely they must have climbed through that.
#Person2#: Yeah. Wow, the television is gone.
#Person1#: They must have had a car or a truck.
#Person2#: My camera's here, but the radio's gone. Nothing else has been stolen. All your jeweler is here, but our daughter's toy is broken.
#Person1#: Thank goodness. They can't have been here long.
#Person2#: No, I think we must have disturbed them. They must have heard us coming and got out of the bathroom window quickly.
#Person1#: Yes, well, hurry up. We'd better phone the police.

Summary: Someone brokes in #Person1# and #Person2#'s house and the television and radio are gone. They will phone the police.


#Person1#: Good afternoon. I'd like some information about the trains, please.
#Person2#: Yes, madam. Which train? Where are you going?
#Person1#: To Bournemouth. You see, I have a sister there and...
#Person2#: So your question is 'When's the next train to Bournemouth?' Is that right?
#Person1#: Yes, that's right.
#Person2#: At half past four. That's in about a minute.
#Person1#: Thank you. Oh! Which platform does it leave from?
#Person2#: Platform 13.
#Person1#: Platform 13! Oh,dear! I never travel on trains that leave on Platform 13! 13 is an unlucky number. When's the next train after the 4:30?

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# the next train to Bournemouth leaves from Platform 13. #Person1# thinks it's unlucky.


#Person1#: Anna, when did the Smiths ask us to get to their house?
#Person2#: By 7:30 PM. There were just 30 minutes to go. Are you ready to go now?
#Person1#: Not yet. Do you know where my blue shirt is? I don't want to go with this brown one.
#Person2#: It's right there in the cupboard with your other shirts. Why isn't Sarah here yet? She said she'd be here by 7:00 PM. Without her taking care of the kids, we can't go to the Smiths tonight.
#Person1#: Don't worry. I'm sure she'll be here any minute now. It takes us just about 20 minutes to get there. We won't be late as long as we leave by 7:10 PM.

Summary: #Person1# and Anna will go to the Smiths. Anna's worried they can't go because the babysitter Sarah hasn't arrived yet. #Person1# comforts her.


#Person1#: Bell Captain. May I help you?
#Person2#: Yes. This is Mr. Wang in Room 1305. Please send up a boy to help me with my luggage.
#Person1#: Certainly, sir. How much luggage do you have?
#Person2#: Well, two big suitcases and two small bags.
#Person1#: I'll send someone up right away.

Summary: Mr. Wang asks Bell Captain to send up a boy to help with his luggage.


#Person1#: So, what do you think? How do you like New York?
#Person2#: I'm having a great time. I love it. I'm glad we came.
#Person1#: Yeah. I really like the stores and the shopping.
#Person2#: I love the museums, too.
#Person1#: But the traffic is pretty bad.
#Person2#: Yeah. I hate all this traffic. It's really noisy.
#Person1#: Listen, it's almost dinnertime. There are lots of restaurant around here. What do you want to try? Italian? Greek? Japanese? Thai?
#Person2#: I can't stand making decisions. You choose!
#Person1#: OK. Let's go American. Where's the nearest McDonald's?

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# both like New York, but they think the traffic is bad. #Person1# suggests eating at McDonald's.


#Person1#: Excuse me. I'm looking for an old music box.
#Person2#: Any particular decade?
#Person1#: Something made in the'20s would be nice.
#Person2#: We had seven, but we sold one this morning.
#Person1#: Are dancing figures a part of any of the boxes?
#Person2#: You're in luck. Two of them have dancing figures.
#Person1#: Oh, these are great. I think I'll take this one.
#Person2#: Yes, that one is very nice.
#Person1#: Now, does this come with a warranty?
#Person2#: I'm sorry, but you just have to take your chances.
#Person1#: That doesn't surprise me.
#Person2#: Even if it doesn't work, it's a beautiful collectible.

Summary: #Person1# is looking for an old music box with dancing figures. #Person1# is not surprised that there's no warranty.


#Person1#: Have you heard Jenny divorced her French husband?
#Person2#: Oh, really? No wonder that she looks quite depressed recently.
#Person1#: Yes. They used to be joined at the hip.
#Person2#: I heard they were just married for half a year.
#Person1#: That's true. She said they often argued over nickel-and-dime things.
#Person2#: Yeah. Mixed marriage is tempting but full of culture shock.
#Person1#: You said it. You know, they fell in love at the first sight and quickly jumped into marriage.
#Person2#: Maybe they were just attracted to each other but too different to be married.
#Person1#: Definitely. Just hope Jenny can recover from the pain of divorce soon.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# Jenny divorced her French husband, then they talk about mixed marriage.


#Person1#: Rebecca, I've come to say sorry to you.
#Person2#: Why, Peter?
#Person1#: I can't find the dictionary you lent me.
#Person2#: Don't worry, Peter. Maybe someone is using it now.
#Person1#: But nobody is in the classroom now.
#Person2#: Well, nothing serious, Peter. It's only an old dictionary.
#Person1#: I'll buy a new dictionary for you.
#Person2#: No, I won't hear of that. If I need a new dictionary, I'll buy one myself.
#Person1#: I'm sorry for being so careless.
#Person2#: It doesn't matter. Let's talk about something else.

Summary: Peter apologizes to Rebecca because he can't find the dictionary she lent him. Rebecca tells him it doesn't matter.


#Person1#: Oh, your baby is so cute.
#Person2#: She's cute, but I'm very tired. She never sleep. After I gave birth, she slept a lot. Now that she's older, she is awake all night.
#Person1#: Does she cry a lot?
#Person2#: Last week, she cried every night. At work, I feel tired all the time. I took her to the doctor and he said she was healthy.
#Person1#: Yes, it's normal for babies to cry. You should hire a babysitter this weekend and sleep.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# her baby is cute but it is tiring to take care of the baby. #Person1# suggests hiring a babysitter.


#Person1#: Lovely weather!
#Person2#: Yes, it's really warm.
#Person1#: I've seen you before, haven't I?
#Person2#: Well, you may have. I've been here once or twice, for a walk in this quiet park. Do you live near here?
#Person1#: Yes. I live in one of those flats over there. What about you?
#Person2#: Oh, I'm staying with a family down near the station.
#Person1#: Are you on holiday?
#Person2#: Well...er...I'm here to improve my English. I'm from Greece, you see.
#Person1#: I didn't think you were English, but your English is very good.
#Person2#: Thank you very much.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# have seen before. #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2#'s here to improve English. #Person1# thinks #Person2#'s English is good.


#Person1#: We're going to need a lot of new stuff after the holidays. Let's make a list.
#Person2#: Fine, Mr. Richardson. What do you have in mind?
#Person1#: Well, to begin with, we're going to have to get a new desk for you and I'd like to replace that old typewriter.
#Person2#: Yes! I agree! We could really use another one! I'll get on that right away! What else would you like to order?

Summary: Mr. Richardson asks #Person2# to order a new desk and a new typewriter.


#Person1#: Welcome to Wanda International Cinema. Can I help you?
#Person2#: Umm... I want to know when 'Operation Red Sea' is showing today.
#Person1#: There are 6 showings today, one in the morning, another at noon, and then 3 p.m., 6 p.m., 9 p. m., and a midnight showing.
#Person2#: OK, I want 5 tickets for the 9 p.m. showing tonight. Are there still 5 tickets available that are seated together?
#Person1#: I'm sorry, there are only 3 tickets left. How about the 6 p.m. showing? There are still 7 tickets left for that show.
#Person2#: But we have a date for dinner at 5 p.m., so we won't make the beginning of the movie.
#Person1#: So would you like to see another movie? 'Detective China Town 2' is very popular, too.
#Person2#: No, we all want to see this one. Is there any way that we could buy tickets now for Friday's screens?
#Person1#: You can order tickets right now for the next three days. It's Wednesday today. So, that's OK. What time would you like?
#Person2#: The 9 p.m. showing. I think there might be more people who want to see the movie on Friday. How many tickets can I buy at one time?
#Person1#: The limit for advanced tickets is 10.
#Person2#: OK, I'll have 8 tickets for the showing of 'Operation Red Sea'. Are the tickets available?
#Person1#: Yes, you're lucky.
#Person2#: By the way, when can I pick up the tickets?
#Person1#: You can have them right now if you pay for them.
#Person2#: Great! Thanks!

Summary: #Person2# wants to buy five 'Operation Red Sea' movie tickets for 9 pm tonight, but there aren't enough. #Person1# recommends to change the time to 6 pm or see another movie, but #Person2# refuses. Finally, #Person2# buys eight tickets for Friday with #Person1#'s help.


#Person1#: Good evening, sir. What's your pleasure?
#Person2#: Give me a shot of whisky and soda.
#Person1#: With or without ice, sir?
#Person2#: Certainly without ice. Ice will spoil the taste.
#Person1#: Would you like to say 'when', please, sir. ( Pouring soda )
#Person2#: Whoa, when.
#Person1#: Enjoy your drink, sir.

Summary: #Person2# wants a shot of whisky and soda without ice. #Person1# asks him to say 'when'.


#Person1#: Hey Mike. What are you doing tonight?
#Person2#: Nothing planned. How about you?
#Person1#: Work is kicking my ass. I'm so stressed. Let's go grab a drink.
#Person2#: I'm always up for a drink. To tell you the truth, it's been quite stressful here too.
#Person1#: I say we get drunk tonight. I don't want to think about all this stuff.
#Person2#: But we have to work tomorrow.
#Person1#: We won't stay out too late. I just need to forget about work.
#Person2#: I hear ya. Let's do it.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are stressed. #Person1# suggests grabbing a drink to forget about work.


#Person1#: Mike, I'm going to Washington tomorrow, do you have anything to be taken to professor Yang?
#Person2#: Yes, Helen. I finished the article, if you will take it to him that will save me a trip.
#Person1#: I'm glad to.
#Person2#: Please ask him to read the article and point out any mistakes and I will try to correct them when I take it back.
#Person1#: Have you printed it out?
#Person2#: Not yet. Someone else is using the machine.
#Person1#: Then can you print it before 4:50?
#Person2#: Sure, I will take it to your office.

Summary: Helen will help to take Mike's paper to Professor Yang in Washington and ask Yang to point out the mistakes.


#Person1#: Hello, hot water overflowed from the bathtub. Would you help me?
#Person2#: Would you turn off the tap?
#Person1#: I did it.
#Person2#: Then will you put all the towels under the bathroom door.
#Person1#: Ok, I will.
#Person2#: I will have our housekeeper come right away.
#Person1#: I am sorry, I was too tired to fall asleep.
#Person2#: When you woke up, the water was coming out the tub?
#Person1#: Right. Can I compensate for the damage with the travel accident insurance?

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# for help because hot water overflowed from #Person1#'s bathtub. #Person1# was too tired to notice the water but #Person1# is willing to compensate.


#Person1#: how can I help you?
#Person2#: I'd like to buy some perfurm for my girlfriend.
#Person1#: do you know what kind of scent she usually wears?
#Person2#: she usually doesn't wear anything but a few drops of Chanel No. 5. But I'd like to buy her a new Fragrance.
#Person1#: ok, here are some of our most popular perfumes.
#Person2#: which one would you recommend?
#Person1#: personally, I quite like the new perfume by Clinique. It's a subtle flowery scent. What do you think?
#Person2#: that smells great. I'll take one bottle, please.
#Person1#: would you like to buy any other cosmetics for your girlfriend? We have a full range of products from cosmetics to skin cleansers and moisturizers.
#Person2#: it's ok. She normally just wears a little foundation and some loose powder, and I wouldn't know what shade to buy.
#Person1#: how about some lipstick? Every woman needs a nice tube of red lipstick.
#Person2#: she doesn't usually wear lipstick. She thinks it makes her nose look too big.
#Person1#: how about some mascara? That will make her eyes look bigger.
#Person2#: no thank you. She has big enough eyes as it is.
#Person1#: I know what she would like---some whitening cream.
#Person2#: no thanks. Western women usually try to make their skin darker, no lighter.
#Person1#: will that be all then?
#Person2#: that will be all. You're been very helpful, thanks.

Summary: #Person2# wants to buy a perfume for his girlfriend. #Person1# recommends Clinique, and #Person2# likes the smell and buys a bottle. #Person1# also recommends #Person2# some cosmetics, but #Person2# only buys foundation and loose powder.


#Person1#: I want to buy a farm. I think I'd like to grow wheat, is the ground here good for that?
#Person2#: No, I don't think it's good for farming.
#Person1#: Why do you know so well?
#Person2#: I own a farm here, but farming is very hard work.
#Person1#: But modern farm equipment can make farming easier.
#Person2#: Yes, but you should cut down trees, clear a lot of land and make the soil rich.
#Person1#: I don't mind hard work. I just want to get away from my factory.
#Person2#: You can have my farm at a low price, $ 200, if you want it.
#Person1#: All right. You're giving me the farm, aren't you?

Summary: #Person1# wants to buy a farm to get away from his factory. #Person2# wants to sell his farm to #Person1# at a low price.


#Person1#: I haven't got enough for prosecuting him.
#Person2#: Why don't you find someone who is in the know.
#Person1#: I'm just thinking about that, but the trouble is, I don't know who is well in the know.
#Person2#: Did you ask his former sectary, Lora? She knows a lot about him.
#Person1#: Thanks for reminding me. She's the right person to help me.

Summary: #Person1# hasn't got enough for prosecuting a certain man. #Person2# suggests asking his former secretary, Lora.


#Person1#: Aaaagh!
#Person2#: But I haven't touched you yet. What are you shouting for?
#Person1#: You are going to touch me.
#Person2#: Well, of course I am. How can I give you an injection without touching you. As soon as you've had the injection your gum will freeze and you won't feel a thing.
#Person1#: How do I know what you will do while I am asleep? You might rob me.
#Person2#: Now let's not be silly. You won't go to sleep. We don't do that nowadays. This will just freeze the area around the tooth so that you cannot feel any pain while I am pulling out the tooth. That is all. You won't go to sleep. You can watch everything in that mirror above you. Come along now.

Summary: #Person2#'s giving #Person1# an injection, but #Person1#'s afraid of falling asleep. #Person2# tells #Person1# the injection will only make the area around the tooth freeze.


#Person1#: What are you doing, Jane?
#Person2#: I am planning a party.
#Person1#: A party? What party? Your birthday party?
#Person2#: Of course not. My birthday is in December, don't you remember? It's the company's party. The general manager wants to invite some famous scientists, bankers and professors from universities to the party. These people are very important to the development of the company.
#Person1#: Have you finished all the planning?
#Person2#: Finished? You must be joking. I have just started. I still need to get a lot more information and I'll have to write many invitation letters.
#Person1#: Can I help you?
#Person2#: Would you? That would be very nice. Let me tell you what to do first.

Summary: Jane is planning the company's party and has to get a lot more information and write invitation letters. #Person1# will help her.


#Person1#: Ikebana, it's an art of flowers and it's quite different from Western style flower arrangement because in Ikebana's theory you can decorate one flower, only with one flower.
#Person2#: What's another Japanese art?
#Person1#: Japanese art? Mm, Ikebana! Tea Ceremony!
#Person2#: Tea Ceremony! Tell me about Tea Ceremony.
#Person1#: Tea Ceremony! It's, there's a certain way you have to make tea, not only make tea, there's a certain way to for example wipe a bowl.
#Person2#: I see.
#Person1#: Yes, with one piece of cloth, and you need to learn how to fold the cloth so that you you use each part of the cloth only once to wipe the bowl
#Person2#: How do you learn that? Is that something that your mother would teach you? How do people learn that?
#Person1#: There's some professionals for both flower arrnagement and tea ceremony. So you need to go to a school, yes, and learn from your teacher and their heirarchy and the organization and you need to pass each test to go, climb up the ladder in the heirarchy.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# about Ikebana, the Japanese art of flowers, and the Tea Ceremony in Japan. There're some professionals for both flower arrangement and tea ceremony.


#Person1#: I simply couldn't help giving him the fish-eye when I knew all that.
#Person2#: But Ben is not a bad man. I know him from A to Z.
#Person1#: However, he disappointed us very much this time.
#Person2#: I can understand that. But. . .

Summary: #Person2# supports Ben while #Person1# complains about him.


#Person1#: I went to Roth's to interview her, you know, Edith Roth is the author of a book about moths.
#Person2#: Is she? I thought she was a mathematician.
#Person1#: I'm so thirsty.
#Person2#: Are you? I thought you had something to drink at her home.
#Person1#: No. Edith didn't give anything to drink.
#Person2#: I'll buy you a drink.
#Person1#: Oh! Thank you.

Summary: #Person1# went to interview Roth and is thirsty. #Person2#'ll buy #Person1# a drink.


#Person1#: Hey, Sandy, what's new? Interested in a movie tonight?
#Person2#: I wish I could, but I'm busy. I'm going to work at a soup kitchen tonight.
#Person1#: Soup kitchen? Is that a new restaurant or something?
#Person2#: Nah, it's a place where homelesspeople go to eat.
#Person1#: How did you get involved in something like that?
#Person2#: Well, the minister at my church told us about it, and it seemed interesting. I thought I'd try it once, and if I didn't like it I'd stop.
#Person1#: So what do you do there?
#Person2#: It's simple. All we do is prepare some food, usually sandwiches and some fruit, and give it out to them at the soup kitchen.
#Person1#: Yeah, it sounds easy. How long does it take?
#Person2#: Only about two hours, for a couple of days a month. Why don't you give it a try?
#Person1#: I don't know. I mean, I like helping the community and all that, but I don't know if I have the time... ...
#Person2#: Come on, it's easy, and it'll make you feel good. Why don't you come with me tonight?

Summary: #Person1# invites Sandy to a movie but Sandy needs to prepare and deliver food for homeless people at a soup kitchen. Sandy invites #Person1# to come together but #Person1# hesitates.


#Person1#: Hey Michael. Where are you going?
#Person2#: No where special. I was just taking a walk.
#Person1#: What for?
#Person2#: To get a little exercise. I'm so out of shape.
#Person1#: Hey, I play basketball with a bunch of friends twice a week. It's great exercise and it's fun too. Why don't you come out and play with us?
#Person2#: That sounds great. Give me a call next time you guys play.

Summary: Michael's taking a walk to get exercise. #Person1# invites him to play basketball.


#Person1#: Hey, This is your order.
#Person2#: Are you new here? I come to this coffeehouse often. But I didn't see you here before.
#Person1#: Yes. I started this part-time job just three days ago. And my internship will last 1 week. I'm still a student now.
#Person2#: Do you mind if I ask you why you've taken the part-time job here?
#Person1#: Of course not. You know, there are many foreign customers like you here. And I think it's good for me to improve my oral English.
#Person2#: Oh, are you an English student? Or you just study English for interest's sake?
#Person1#: No, I'm not an English student. But I do like English. I'm going to be a volunteer in the 2008 Olympics where I want to be helpful with the language. So I try to improve my English.
#Person2#: Very nice. Thank you for your time.
#Person1#: Thank you, sir. But I'm not allowed to accept any tips.
#Person2#: OK then. I don't want to put you in trouble.
#Person1#: Well, would you like something else? The new-made cafe parfait is really good. Want some?
#Person2#: OK. But I'd like some cookies.
#Person1#: Sure. If you want more coffee, please go over there. There is self-help coffee maker.
#Person2#: I surely know that. Don't forget that I am a regular customer here.
#Person1#: Oops. Well, wait for a while. We'll get it done quickly.
#Person2#: It's OK. Thank you.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# that #Person1# is doing a part-time job in this coffeehouse and #Person1# thinks this job can help improve #Person1#'s spoken language. #Person1# shows #Person2# the self-help coffee maker and #Person2# reminds #Person1# that #Person2# is a regular customer.


#Person1#: Speaking of classical music, we should never forget about the New Year's Concert of the Vienna Philharmonic.
#Person2#: Of course not. People all over the world watch it on TV, or listen to it on the radio.
#Person1#: Sure. It's one of the biggest classical music events. Have you ever been to the live show?
#Person2#: Yes, I went to the New Year's Concert in 2010.
#Person1#: Wow, you're so lucky. I saw it on TV. But it must be so different to be there in the concert hall.
#Person2#: That's for sure. You know, I had the greatest time ever.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# like the New Year's Concert of the Vienna Philharmonic. #Person2# went to the concert in 2010 while #Person1# only saw it on TV.


#Person1#: Have you heard what Fred did last night?
#Person2#: No. Not yet. What happened to him?
#Person1#: I guess he was a little drunk and he had a fight in the car with his girlfriend, while he got so mad at her that he drove his car straight into the front of a drug store.
#Person2#: What do you mean?
#Person1#: I mean he drove inside. The front of the store was completely broken up. Actually I saw it just now as I walked by. It still parked inside the store next to the milk. There, some food all over the car. It's a terrible state.
#Person2#: I'm afraid Fred is in trouble. Where is he now?
#Person1#: I hear he's in the police station. It's lucky no one was hurt.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# that Fred was drunk and had a fight with his girlfriend, and then he drove straight into a drug store. Fortunately, no one was injured.


#Person1#: Is there anything else that you would like to buy?
#Person2#: No, thank you. I guess that's it. By the way, in case there's a flaw in this CD player. Can I return it?
#Person1#: Yes. But you must return it within 30 days.
#Person2#: Is there a charge for that?I know other stores have a restocking fee.
#Person1#: There will be no charge at all.
#Person2#: I'm glad to hear that.
#Person1#: However,you must show us the receipt. Could you sign it here, please?
#Person2#: OK.
#Person1#: All right. Keep your receipt. If something comes up. you can show it to us and We'll give you a refund.
#Person2#: Thanks. I'll put it in a safe place.

Summary: #Person2# bought a CD player and asks #Person1# for the information about refund.


#Person1#: Abby Park Hotel. Can I help you?
#Person2#: Yes, I would like to book a room for my wife and myself.
#Person1#: Certainly sir. Could I have your arrival and departure dates?
#Person2#: We will be arriving on Tuesday next week and staying for two days.
#Person1#: We have a double room for you with a nice view of the park. Would that be OK?
#Person2#: Yes, that would be great. How much is the room?
#Person1#: It is ninety-five pounds per night. It is a double room with a bathroom. There is a fridge, coffee maker and a television in the room.
#Person2#: Does the bathroom have a bath or a shower?
#Person1#: All our bathrooms have full size baths with a shower attachment.
#Person2#: Does the room have an Internet connection?
#Person1#: Yes, all our rooms have complimentary wireless Internet.
#Person2#: Excellent. Do you serve breakfast in the hotel?
#Person1#: Yes, breakfast is included in the price. Our guests have the choice of a full English breakfast or a continental breakfast.
#Person2#: That's great. Can I book the room?
#Person1#: Certainly, Sir.

Summary: #Person2# calls #Person1# to book a room for two days for his wife and himself. #Person2# asks for some details about the room and books the room.


#Person1#: Well, I think my article can't be more awful.
#Person2#: Not likely. Why are you so unconfident about your paper?
#Person1#: You know, I missed the deadline for handing in the paper. So I'm uncertain about the content of my paper.
#Person2#: Take it easy. Actually, I read your article last night and I found that you had applied the general knowledge to specific problems in your article.
#Person1#: You think so? You mean I have done well?
#Person2#: Yeah, your work is not bad. However, I have some suggestions for you. Keep to the point, but cross out the unimportant information carefully, or that may have caused some mistakes.
#Person1#: OK, thanks.

Summary: #Person1# feels awful about #Person1#'s paper. #Person2# encourages #Person1# and offers some refining advice.


#Person1#: How are you doing, Andrew?
#Person2#: Not well. I've been feeling pretty lonely lately.
#Person1#: But you have so many friends! How could you be lonely?
#Person2#: You know what they say: a friend to all is a friend to none. I don't feel like I really know any of my friends. In fact, I should probably call them acquaintances, not friends.
#Person1#: What about me? I'm your friend.
#Person2#: I know you are, but you're my girlfriend. I wish I had a guy friend to hang out with sometimes.
#Person1#: I know what you mean. I find it difficult to make new friends, too. It's not as easy as it was when we were young, is it?
#Person2#: Not at all.
#Person1#: I've made a lot of new friends since I started learning English. Maybe you could join a club or take a class to make some new friends.
#Person2#: That's a good idea.
#Person1#: What kind of qualities do you look for in a friend?
#Person2#: I'm not sure. I guess I'd like to meet some people who have a positive attitude and want to have a good time.
#Person1#: People who play ultimate Frisbee have a positive attitude; maybe you should join the ultimate Frisbee club.
#Person2#: That's a possibility. Thanks!

Summary: Andrew tells #Person1# that he is lonely because he wishes he had a guy friend to hang out with sometimes. #Person1# advises him to join a club to make new friends.


#Person1#: Li Lei, can you tell me what the origin of Easter is?
#Person2#: The Bible says that Jesus Christ was resurrected three days after he was crucified. People commemorate that at a festival called Easter.
#Person1#: Oh, then when do you celebrate Easter?
#Person2#: We celebrate it on the first Sunday after a full moon on or after the 21st of March.
#Person1#: How do you celebrate it?
#Person2#: We make a lot of Easter eggs and then paint some designs on them. We'll also go to church and pray.
#Person1#: That sounds interesting.

Summary: Li Lei tells #Person1# the origin and the time of Easter and how they celebrate the day.


#Person1#: What's for dinner tonight?
#Person2#: It's whatever you're planning on cooking.
#Person1#: You're not going to cook?
#Person2#: No, I always cook.
#Person1#: Yeah, and I love your cooking.
#Person2#: Don't give me that. If you're hungry, then cook dinner.
#Person1#: You're being serious?
#Person2#: Look, I'm really tired tonight. I don't feel like cooking dinner.
#Person1#: Okay, I'll make dinner tonight.
#Person2#: Thank you. I'm going to bed.
#Person1#: Do you want me to wake you up when dinner is ready?
#Person2#: Yes, please.

Summary: #Person2# is exhausted and doesn't feel like cooking. #Person1# will make dinner instead.


#Person1#: Hello, Mr. Lawson. It's a pleasure to see you again. You seem to be in here all the time at the moment! What can I do for you today?
#Person2#: I've prepared some L / C documents, all in accordance with the conditions. There shouldn't be any problems; I've done about a million of these things recently.
#Person1#: You're right, no problems. You are becoming quite the expert, Mr. Lawson. If any problem does turn up, which I'm sure it won't, I'll give you a call.
#Person2#: Thanks very much. I'm sure I'll be back, so see you again soon. Bye!

Summary: Mr. Lawson has prepared some L / C documents. #Person1# promises to give him a call if there're problems.


#Person1#: it's such a nice day outside. Let's take a walk into town and do some window-shopping.
#Person2#: you know I hate shopping more than anything else in this world.
#Person1#: I know. But we could get some exercise in, and we could get some errands run, too. Window-shopping won't cost you anything.
#Person2#: what kind of errands do we need to run?
#Person1#: well, we could go to the newsagent's to pick up the Sunday paper, go to the butcher's to pick up a chicken for a roast dinner, and to the chemist's to pick up your prescription from the doctor.
#Person2#: I'll only go if we can stop at the office-license to pick up something to drink for tonight.
#Person1#: fine, we'll do that on the way home, so we don't have to carry it the whole time.
#Person2#: sounds good. You have to promise not go into any of the stores in the mall though. I know how you like to try things on in the fitting rooms, especially if the stores have special offers.
#Person1#: I promise. We're only going for a walk to get some exercise and to get some things done that we haven't had time for.
#Person2#: ok, let's go then!
#Person1#: do you have any money?
#Person2#: for what?
#Person1#: for our errands, and maybe a little extra for something from a vendor on the street.
#Person2#: you said you were only going to window shop!
#Person1#: I agreed to not go into the mall, but I can still look at things in the market!
#Person2#: I should have known...

Summary: #Person1# suggests #Person2# walk into town and do some window-shopping together to get some exercise in and get some errands run. At first, #Person2# is unwilling to go, but later #Person2# agrees since #Person1# promises not to go into any of the stores in the mall.


#Person1#: Would you like to go to work or continue your studies after graduation?
#Person2#: I think I will continue my studies. Now it's not easy for a graduate with bachelor's degree to get a job since there are so many graduates with master's or doctor's degree. We are likely to lose in competing with them in the job market.
#Person1#: So you will continue to study for a master's degree?
#Person2#: Well, I think so. But I am thinking of going aboard to get a master's and doctor's degree. If can get a Ph. D. abroad, it will be much easy for me to get a job at home.
#Person1#: How can you finance your education abroad? It is very expensive to study abroad.
#Person2#: I think I will try to get the scholarship since I really don't have so much money to study abroad. Actually now I am preparing for the TEFL and GRE exams. If I can get high marks in the two exams and if I am lucky enough, I may get a scholarship.
#Person1#: It could be pretty tough studying abroad. Being so far away from home. . .

Summary: #Person2# decides to study aboard for a master's and doctor's degree so that he can improve his competing capacity in the job market. He is now preparing for the English tests which are crucial for him to get the scholarship.


#Person1#: Hello! Is your company advertising for administrative assistant on the newspapers?
#Person2#: Well, Administrative assistant with shorthand and typing skills are badly needed here.
#Person1#: First I want to check about the availability and see if you could give me more information.
#Person2#: The position calls for a person with some working experience. We must be able to benefit from your analytical and interpersonal skills. Can you deliver your resume to us first?
#Person1#: Of course. I will deliver my resume to you in minutes' time. I hope you will consider my application and I shall appreciate a reply at your earliest convenience.
#Person2#: OK. I will call you soon. Bye now.
#Person1#: Bye.

Summary: #Person1# phones to inquire about the job. #Person2# answers that the position needs someone with experience and skills. #Person1# will deliver #Person1#'s resume soon.