#Person1#: Mrs. Thompson once ditheist, Jason.
#Person2#: Why? We shouldn't be in trouble or anything? In fact we were super active during the entire class discussion this morning.
#Person1#: That's just it. I don't think it's a bad thing at all. I think she is going to ask us to run for class monitor.
#Person2#: Whoa! Really? That's a lot of responsibility.
#Person1#: Well, I think you'd be great at it. Besides, it's a big honor to be asked to do it. It means that Mrs. Thompson sees us as leaders.
#Person2#: I'm not sure if I can do it by myself, though. Could we do it together?
#Person1#: Let's ask Mrs. Thompson. I hear her coming in from the hallway now.

Summary: #Person1# tells Jason Mrs. Thompson once ditheist and #Person1# guesses she wants them to run for class monitors. They'll ask Mrs. Thompson whether they can do this together.


#Person1#: Excuse me? Is this where I register? I'd like to sign up for my courses for next semester.
#Person2#: Yes, of course. I need your student ID please.
#Person1#: Here you are.
#Person2#: Okay, Susan. It says here that you are a business major and you are in your second year. Is this information correct?
#Person1#: Yes. I do want to take some additional credits this year to get a minor in psychology.
#Person2#: Sure. That's not a problem. Do you have the list of courses you want to taketh semester?
#Person1#: Yeah. Here's my list. I'm not sure if the class schedule will allow me to take all of them though.
#Person2#: Yeah, that's perfect. What about the subjects for your minor?
#Person1#: Oh yeah! Almost forgot! I need to take fundamental linguistics, consumer psychology and neuroanatomy.
#Person2#: Wow, you are going to be busy this semester! Okay, here you go. You are registered now. you'll have to make your first tuition payment before classes start.

Summary: Susan wants to sign up for the courses for next semester and #Person2# helps her to register.


#Person1#: Have you heard that we will have reorganization?
#Person2#: No, really?
#Person1#: Yes, flexible, aggressive and creative people are urgently needed in the marketing department.
#Person2#: Who will be there?
#Person1#: James is going to be packed off there.
#Person2#: That is good. He can leave you alone this time.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# they'll have the reorganization and Jim'll go to the marketing department.


#Person1#: Today in the studio we have Alberto Cortez, the well-known Brazilian advocate of the anti-global movement. He's here to talk about the recent report, stating that by 2050 Brazil will be the one ot the word's wealthiest and most successful countries. Alberto, what do you say to the report?
#Person2#: You know this isn't the first time that people are saying Brazil will be a great economic power. The same thing was said over a hundred year ago. But it didn't happen.
#Person1#: Yes, but you must admit the world's a very different place now.
#Person2#: Of course. In fact I believe there's maybe some truth in the prediction this time around. First of all, though, we must remember the problems facing Brazil at the moment.
#Person1#: Such as...?
#Person2#: There's an enormous gap between the rich and the poor in this country. In Sal Paulo, you can see shopping malls full of designer goods right next door to the slam areas without proper water and electricity supplies. A lot of work needs to be done to help people in those areas improve their lives.
#Person1#: What needs to be done?
#Person2#: Education, for example. For Brazil to be successful, we need to offer education to all Brazilians. Successful countries like South Korea and Singapore have excellent education systems. Brazil needs to learn from these countries.
#Person1#: So you are hopeful for the future.
#Person2#: As I said earlier, I'm hopeful. This isn't an easy job. We need to make sure that these important opportunities for Brazil aren't wasted, as they were in the past.

Summary: #Person1# invites Alberto Cortez, a well-known Brazilian advocate of the anti-global movement, to talk about a report stating Brazil will be one of the world's wealthiest and most successful countries by 2050. Alberto talks about some problems facing Brazil and they need excellent education systems. Alberto is hopeful for the future.


#Person1#: Paulanar Restaurant. Head waiter. Good morning.
#Person2#: I'd like to book a table for two.
#Person1#: And is that for today, Madam?
#Person2#: Of course.
#Person1#: At what time, Madam?
#Person2#: Oh, about three o'clock, I suppose.
#Person1#: I'm afraid we only serve lunch till 3 p.m., Madam.
#Person2#: Oh, well, two o'clock then, and it must be by a window.
#Person1#: Very good, and your name, please?
#Person2#: White. Linda White.
#Person1#: Very good, Mrs. White. A table for two at 2 p.m. today.

Summary: Linda White books a table for two at Paulanar Restaurant at 2 p.m. today with #Person1#'s help.


#Person1#: What shall we do this weekend?
#Person2#: Do you have something special in mind?
#Person1#: No. not really. I just thought it might be fun to do something new.
#Person2#: Do something for a change, you mean?
#Person1#: Yes, something different.
#Person2#: I usually go shopping and have my hair cut during the weekend and you usually watch football matches on TV.
#Person1#: Yes. you often have tea with your friends. And I sometimes play cards with my friends. We have seldom done anything together since we were married.
#Person2#: Now I've got an idea. Why don't we go for a picnic this weekend?
#Person1#: Good idea! I will choose the place and you can prepare the food.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# plan to go for a picnic this weekend to do something different.


#Person1#: I'll show you around and explain the operation as we go along.
#Person2#: That'll be most helpful.
#Person1#: That is our office block. We have all the administrative departments there. Down there is the research and development section.
#Person2#: How much do you spend on development every year?
#Person1#: About 3-4 % of the gross sales.
#Person2#: What's that building opposite us?
#Person1#: That's the warehouse. We keep a stock of the faster moving items so that urgent orders can be met quickly from stock.
#Person2#: If I placed an order now, how long would it be before I got delivery?
#Person1#: It would largely depend on the size of the order and the items you want.

Summary: #Person1# shows #Person2# around and explains the operation. #Person1# introduces to #Person2# about the spending on development and delivery of orders.


#Person1#: What do you plan to do on Sunday morning?
#Person2#: Nothing special.
#Person1#: How about going to English corner with me?
#Person2#: Oh, I'd rather not.
#Person1#: Why not ?
#Person2#: You know, I am poor at English, especially spoken English.
#Person1#: That's why you should go there, If you don't dare to speak English owing to the fact that you are afraid of making mistakes, you simply will never learn English.

Summary: #Person1# invites #Person2# to the English corner. #Person2# refuses. #Person1# thinks #Person2# ought to go.


#Person1#: Hello. How are you today?
#Person2#: Not so good. My leg's playing me up, awful pains in my leg and my toothache!
#Person1#: Oh, dear! I've got toothache too and the dentist says he simply can't see me before next week. But what gets me is my headache.
#Person2#: I know what you mean, but at least you can do the garden. I can't even do that with my back, the doctor says I mustn't lift or bend.
#Person1#: You poor thing. There's nothing worse than back trouble. But I don't do much in the garden now because I've hurt my arm. It's really painful.
#Person2#: Like my ankle. It's all swollen up.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# talk about their ailments. #Person2# has a toothache and backache, while #Person1# has pains in #Person1#'s teeth and arms.


#Person1#: My camera has broken down. I'm thinking of buying a new one.
#Person2#: Try MA-205. You won't regret it.
#Person1#: I know this model is of a good quality and design but it's too expensive.
#Person2#: You can buy a cheaper one on the Internet.
#Person1#: On the Internet? How?
#Person2#: Use a search engine and search for cheap MA-205.
#Person1#: A search engine? Em, what's that?
#Person2#: You really live in the stone age. All right, tell me your budget and I'll see whether I can get one for you.

Summary: #Person2# recommends #Person1# to buy a cheaper MA-205 on the Internet by using a search engine.


#Person1#: The boat is ready to leave. Everyone come onto the ship, please.
#Person2#: Excuse me, where is my cabin?
#Person1#: Can I see your ticket?
#Person2#: Of course. Here you are.
#Person1#: Your seat is in cabin No. 5, the upper deck. It's near amid ship.
#Person2#: Can you direct the place for me?
#Person1#: There! ( Point out the direction. ) You can see a window there.
#Person2#: I see. Thank you.
#Person1#: You are welcome. Have a good trip!

Summary: #Person1# checks #Person2#'s tickets and directs #Person2#'s cabin for #Person2#.


#Person1#: I have read your resume. What is your last job?
#Person2#: I've worked in the Production Department for two years.
#Person1#: Could you introduce your biggest accomplishments in your last job?
#Person2#: Working with my colleagues, we were able to increase the production efficiency by 5 %.
#Person1#: Great! Could you tell me your educational background?
#Person2#: Yes. I got a bachelor's degree in English from Beijing University.
#Person1#: Why are you willing to work for our company?
#Person2#: I can get more promotion in your company.
#Person1#: OK, that's all. We'll inform you in two days.
#Person2#: Thank you.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# about #Person2#'s last job, #Person2#'s educational background, and the reason to work for #Person1#'s company.


#Person1#: I wish we had hired a professional person to film it. Instead of asking your friend Lenny to do it.
#Person2#: This video isn't so bad. The quality isn't the best, but he does a pretty good job.
#Person1#: It's not bad if you like your unclear video. There are no changes between scenes and the lighting is terrible. At best, it looks like a rough video that has not been completely edited.
#Person2#: It is a little rough, I admit.
#Person1#: There are problems with the audio, too. Some sections are no sound when the audio is cut. And when there is the audio, the volume isn't the same.
#Person2#: That's true. I guess, he'll do better next time.

Summary: #Person1# wishes they had hired a professional person to film it and feels disappointed with Lenny's work. #Person2# tries to defend Lenny.


#Person1#: Hi Jane, you look great.
#Person2#: You too. Have you lost some weight?
#Person1#: Yes, I took off 4 kilos. I am glad you notice it.
#Person2#: Not some crazy diet fat I hope.
#Person1#: No no, I just changed my eating habits. I eat a balance meal. and I eat less than before.
#Person2#: Good for you, keep it up.

Summary: #Person1#'s glad that Jane notices that #Person1# lost some weight. #Person1# tells her #Person1# took off 4 kilos by changing eating habits.


#Person1#: Do you know what time it is?
#Person2#: Um. Ten?
#Person1#: Get in this door young man. It's midnight, you are two hours past curfew.
#Person2#: I know, but it wasn't my fault! I told Jennifer she had to drop me off before ten, but she wouldn't leave the party!
#Person1#: I don't care! You are grounded for life, mister!
#Person2#: Mom! That is so unfair!
#Person1#: You know the rules and you broke them. No allowance and no TV for a week. I usually never ground you but this time I have to put my foot down!
#Person2#: What! For being a couple of hours late? You have to be kidding!
#Person1#: I don't want to hear it! Now go to your room!

Summary: #Person2# comes back two hours later than curfew. His mom is angry and tells #Person1# no allowance and no TV for a week.


#Person1#: What do you think of the way people use and treat animals?
#Person2#: I think most people treat animals well, but we are often cruel to animals. When we raise animals for food, the conditions they live in are often poor.
#Person1#: Perhaps people should stop eating animals. We could grow more crops.
#Person2#: What would you do with all the animals? You couldn't just let them go. Besides, some people would still hunt them. Meat has become an integral part of our diet.
#Person1#: We could provide them with better conditions anyway. We should certainly try to improve the conditions at zoos. We should try to recreate the natural conditions as much as possible.
#Person2#: That's true. I think it is a good idea, because zoos allow people to get close to animals. I think it's good for kids to see wild animals.
#Person1#: I agree. I'm an adult and I love going to the zoo. I don't like animals experiments though. I believe that we can do tests in other ways.
#Person2#: I read that the number of animals being used in experiments is falling dramatically as new techniques are being introduced.
#Person1#: That's good news. The good thing is that most people treat their pets well.
#Person2#: Sometimes you read about people who have been cruel to pets or other animals, but those stories are rare.
#Person1#: Have you every given money to any of the charities that take care of animals.
#Person2#: Yes, I have. They do an excellent job.

Summary: #Person2# thinks people are cruel to animals and they live in poor conditions. #Person1# thinks people should stop eating animals and provide them with better conditions. Both #Person1# and #Person2# agree it's a good idea to improve the condition at zoos. They are happy that most people treat their pets well.


#Person1#: I think we should do the floors before we work on the curtains and walls.
#Person2#: Why? it doesn't make sense. If we do the floors first, and then paint the walls, we will get paint all over our new floor.
#Person1#: Hmm Maybe you're right. But I can't stand all this green carpet here. And besides, I know how to paint. I will just cover everything with drop cloth. I won't get anything on the floor.
#Person2#: Are you sure?
#Person1#: Yes, I'm sure I've done a lot of house painting in my life. And my mother was very picky. If I got even a tiny drop of paint on her furniture, she would get furious. So I learned to be very careful.
#Person2#: Alright. Then maybe we can do the floor first. These wood floors under this carpet are beautiful. And me too,, I can't wait to get all this old carpet out of here. But how can we get it out? Do we have to hire someone?
#Person1#: Absolutely not. We can remove the carpet ourselves. Carpet is held down with carpet nails. You just need to pull it hard and it will come up.
#Person2#: Great. Then, after we remove the carpet, we need to redo all the wood floors. Right?
#Person1#: Yes. But we should hire someone for that. That will probably be expensive. And it has to be done right.
#Person2#: And then, after the floors are done, we can start to move our furniture in.
#Person1#: Sure. If we can get an appointment with someone to do the floors, we should probably be able to have the furniture in here after a week or so. I can get all the carpet out this weekend.

Summary: #Person1# will paint the wall and will be careful not to get anything on the floor. #Person1# says they can remove the carpet themselves, and #Person2# will get an appointment with someone to do the floors and then have the furniture after a week.


#Person1#: Taxi!
#Person2#: Yes, sir. Where to?
#Person1#: The city square, please.
#Person2#: Are you in a hurry?
#Person1#: Yes, I have to be there to meet a friend at 5 thirty pm. So we're sure we can get there on time?
#Person2#: I'm afraid not, sir. Generally we can, but you know how it is in the rush hour now.
#Person1#: I see. Here's the extra 5$ for you if you can get me there on time.
#Person2#: All right. I'll do my best.
#Person1#: Oh. we made it. Thank you. How much do I own you?
#Person2#: The reading on the kilometer is 12$.
#Person1#: Here's the money, keep the changes, please.
#Person2#: Do you need a receipt?
#Person1#: No, thank you.

Summary: #Person1# takes a taxi to the city square at 17:30 and offers #Person2# an extra 5$ for driving him there on time.


#Person1#: Donna! How are you? It's good to hear your voice.
#Person2#: Thank you. Jack, it's always a pleasure doing business with you.
#Person1#: So how are things in the land of the free and the home of brave?
#Person2#: Great! And, how are things in your neck of the woods?
#Person1#: Things are so great here. I almost smiled myself to death last week. One of my coworkers had to give me CPR.
#Person2#: Oh.Jack, I have missed your sense of humor.Ha ha ha! Nobody else sees things quite like you do.It ' s your gift.
#Person1#: Or a curse.
#Person2#: Nope, it's a gift.Anyway, we need some more of those mid-range speakers you tricked me into buying last time.
#Person1#: That, my dear, was classic sales technique delivered by a professional.
#Person2#: Are you still gouging your customers the same price per unit?
#Person1#: Heck no, we doubled the price, but because it's you, I'll let you have'em at 50 off.
#Person2#: You silver-tongued devil. Can't you ever just answer a question with a simple yes or no?
#Person1#: I could, but where's the fun in that?

Summary: Donna and Jack are doing business. Jack has a sense of humor while talking and he said it was classical sale techniques. Jack will let Donna have the goods at half price.


#Person1#: What do you do in your spare times?
#Person2#: I have many hobbies. I like almost all kind of sports, and I also like to listen to classical musics.
#Person1#: What sports do you like best?
#Person2#: Football. It's a very exciting game, because it keeps you alert, and I also enjoying the team spirit of football.
#Person1#: Do you like reading books?
#Person2#: Yes. I enjoying reading biographs, especially those of well-known statesmen, militarists and artists, I can learn a lot from their life histories.
#Person1#: Who are you favourite authors?
#Person2#: I like the novels of Inches very much, I have reading almost all of them in Chinese translation, I wish i can reading them in the original.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2# likes listening to classical music, playing football, and reading biographies and the novels of Inches.


#Person1#: How have you been feeling lately?
#Person2#: I'Ve been feeling a little light-headed lately.
#Person1#: Has your blood pressure been high before?
#Person2#: If I have high blood pressure, it is news to me.
#Person1#: Usually people with high blood pressure have no symptoms, so we call it the silent killer.
#Person2#: What do you use to check for high blood pressure?
#Person1#: I am going to put a cuff on you to get a reading.
#Person2#: What does the reading tell you?
#Person1#: I get an idea of the pressure in your arteries when your heart is pumping blood versus at rest.
#Person2#: I hope that the test results show me to be really healthy.

Summary: #Person1# will put a cuff on #Person2# to read the pressure in #Person2#'s arteries to check for high blood pressure.


#Person1#: I can't believe my English teacher is making me read pride and prejudice!
#Person2#: Why not! It's a classic. In fact, it's one of my favorite novels.
#Person1#: But it's so old.
#Person2#: Don't judge a book by its cover. Do you Kwon what it's about?
#Person1#: No, not at all.
#Person2#: First of all, it's a romance novel, set in the early 19th century.
#Person1#: I didn't realize it was a romance novel. What's the main storyline?
#Person2#: It's basically about a father who tried to marry off one of his five girls.
#Person1#: Why does he want to do that?
#Person2#: Since he doesn't have a son, he hopes that one of the girls will marry a wealthy man. That way, all of his daughters will be cared for.
#Person1#: Won't they get his inheritance?
#Person2#: No, that's the problem. Though they are well-off, once he dies, his house will go to his cousin. So, when he dies, the girls will have nothing.
#Person1#: I see. This sounds interesting! Maybe my teacher isn't so horrible after all.
#Person2#: So, are you going to read the novel or watch the movie?
#Person1#: There's movie? My teacher didn't tell me that!
#Person2#: That's probably because she wants you to read the book first.
#Person1#: It would take a lot less time. . .
#Person2#: How about this. When you finish the book. I'll get the movie and watch it with you.
#Person1#: Ok. That sounds like a deal.

Summary: #Person1#'s teacher makes #Person1# read Pride and Prejudice, but #Person1# thinks the novel is old. However, #Person2# likes it and tells #Person1# it's a romance novel and its main storyline. They plan to watch the movie together after #Person1# finishes reading it.


#Person1#: Hi, this is Ralph Simmons. With whom am I speaking?
#Person2#: This is Paula Blake, Mr. Simmons. How can I help you?
#Person1#: I'm hoping you can sort a few things out for me. Could you pull up my account?
#Person2#: Certainly, sir. Just tell me your account number please.

Summary: Ralph Simmons calls Paula Blake to pull up his account.


#Person1#: I can bet the farm that you will regret about your decision. You cannot find a better one.
#Person2#: How can you be so sure? You haven't been together with her, have you?
#Person1#: No. But I'm sure she is a good girl. My sixth sense tells me so.
#Person2#: Then try it yourself.

Summary: #Person1# thinks #Person2#'ll regret not choosing the girl but #Person2# doesn't think so.


#Person1#: I can't find my purse.
#Person2#: Oh, no. Maybe you left it at the bank. You took it out when you cashed the cheque.
#Person1#: But I remember having it after that.
#Person2#: Well, you paid for the coffee when we were in that coffee shop. Remember?
#Person1#: That's right. I remember feeling it to my pocket as we walked out.
#Person2#: And then, we dropped in ... bookshop...
#Person1#: Yes. But I remember taking a piece of paper out of my purse to write down the name of the book on it. I think I must have left the purse on the shelf. I'll call the bookshop and see if they found it.

Summary: #Person1# can't find #Person1#'s purse. #Person1# and #Person2# think #Person1# may have left the purse in the bookshop and #Person1# will call the bookshop.


#Person1#: Tom and Helen got married at last.
#Person2#: How did you know that? I heart Tom's father didn't agree with that.
#Person1#: I was invited to attend their wedding.
#Person2#: It's great. Although his father didn't agree with that, Tom went through with it.
#Person1#: How moving love is.

Summary: Tom and Helen got married, even Tom's father disagreed.


#Person1#: I really appreciate your filling me in on yesterday's lecture.
#Person2#: No problem. I thought you might want to go over it together. And, anyway, it helps me review, Hope you're feeling better now.
#Person1#: I am. Thanks. So, you said she talked about squid? Sounds a little strange.
#Person2#: Well, actually, it was about the evolution of sea life--a continuation from last week. The octopus and the squid descended from earlier creatures with shells. They survived by shedding their shells--somewhere between 200 and 500 million years ago.
#Person1#: That's a pretty long span of time.
#Person2#: I know. That's what she said, though. To be precise: 'Exactly when they emerged is uncertain ... and why is still unexplained.'
#Person1#: Some squid are really huge. Can you imagine something that big if it still had a shell?
#Person2#: Actually, it's because they lost their shells that they could evolve to a bigger size.
#Person1#: Makes sense. But some are really huge. I've read about fishermen that caught squid that weighed over a ton. Did she talk about how that happens?
#Person2#: Not really. But she did mention some unusual cases. In 1933 in New Zealand they caught a squid.., let's see here.., it was twenty-two yards long. Its eyes were eighteen inches across. Can you imagine?
#Person1#: Reminds me of all those stories of sea monsters.
#Person2#: Dr. Simpson thinks there are probably even larger ones that haven't been found because squid are intelligent and fast---so they can easily get away from humans. Maybe some of those monster stories are true.

Summary: #Person1# thanks #Person2# for filling #Person1# in on yesterday's lecture. The lecture is about the evolution of sea life, which is a continuation from last week. #Person1# thinks some squid are large, and #Person2# says it's because they lost their shells and mentions some unusual cases.


#Person1#: I am having some plumbing problems and need them fixed.
#Person2#: What exactly is wrong with the plumbing?
#Person1#: The toilet flushes really slowly.
#Person2#: Are there any problems with the plumbing in the kitchen?
#Person1#: Both the kitchen and the bathroom plumbing are messed up.
#Person2#: How long have you had these problems?
#Person1#: It has been going on for a while, but just started to get worse this morning.
#Person2#: I will send someone out to take a look at the problem. Will you be home this afternoon?
#Person1#: Yes, I will be home this afternoon.
#Person2#: Fine. I will be there around two. If someone is not there, I will use my key to get in.

Summary: #Person1# is having some plumbing problems in the kitchen and the bathroom. #Person2# will send someone to take a look this afternoon.


#Person1#: Well, any luck? Did you see Buster anywhere?
#Person2#: No, I couldn't find him either. I drove all around the neighborhood. I circled our block 3 times, hoping he'll show up. No such luck. I'm sorry, Ben.
#Person1#: It's not your fault. I shouldn't have left the door open. I hope we'll find him. He is such a huge part of our family. He walks with Lily to school every morning.
#Person2#: I'm sure we'll find him. Ben, I remember when I lost my dog, Spot. We looked for 10 hours and finally we just gave up. Not long after we got home, Spot showed up at our front door. They know how to get home, Ben. They always do.
#Person1#: I hope you're right, Lucy. Maybe he'll show up before it gets dark. I just hope he's OK.
#Person2#: He will be, Ben. He has always been loyal to you and your family. He's probably just off exploring.
#Person1#: If you say so, let's walk up Forest Avenue and see if maybe he's hiding in Mr. Johnson's yard. He always likes to bark and chase his cat around there.
#Person2#: That's a good idea. See, we'll find him before you know it. You have nothing to be worried about.

Summary: Ben and Lucy are looking for Buster. Ben regrets letting the door open. Lucy comforts Ben. They will walk up Forest Avenue to look for Buster.


#Person1#: Hi Jim. Do you have a minute?
#Person2#: Sure, what ' s up?
#Person1#: Some of us are going to start a soccer team. Would you like to join us?
#Person2#: I don ' t know anything about it. Soccer isn ' t as popular in my country as it is here.
#Person1#: That ' s all right. We ' ll teach you.
#Person2#: Is it anything like American football?
#Person1#: Not very much. It ' s something like hockey, except that you use a big ball and no stick.
#Person2#: I ' ll come down and watch you play some day, and see what it ' s like.
#Person1#: Good idea. I think you ' ll like it if you give it a chance.

Summary: #Person1# invites Jim to join a soccer team but Jim doesn't know anything about soccer and wants to see what it's like first.


#Person1#: I'm sorry, sir. I'm going to have to ask you to leave.
#Person2#: What? I was just having a friendly conversation with the lady here. . .
#Person1#: Well, she apparently doesn't think it's so friendly. Let's go.
#Person2#: I think there's been a misunderstanding!
#Person1#: You'd better cooperate with me, sir, or. . .
#Person2#: OK! Just give her this for me!

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# to leave but #Person2# thinks there's been a misunderstanding.


#Person1#: Did you go to the bank to withdraw money?
#Person2#: Today is so hot, besides I had so much housework to do. My friend came for a visit and stayed for two hours. I didn't forget, but I had no time at all.
#Person1#: So you didn't. Is that right?
#Person2#: Yes. I'm sorry.
#Person1#: Why didn't you just answer my question directly? Why would Chinese answer questions this way? I simply asked if you did it or not. It's a very simple question. And Chinese often give the reason before they would give a direct answer.
#Person2#: Yes, I'm sorry. I know it bothers you very much. But I don't know why Chinese sometimes would do this.
#Person1#: You know, today I asked a student if he brought his dictionary with him. It's a rule I made for the class that everyone brings a bilingual dictionary with them because sometimes they don't understand me. The funniest thing is that this student gave me a lot of reasons and no direct answer.
#Person2#: But you know if he brought it or not, right?
#Person1#: Yeah, after all the explanations like, it's too heavy, I was in a hurry. . . whatever.

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# a question but #Person2# didn't answer directly. #Person1# complains about that. #Person2# is sorry about that but doesn't know why Chinese people sometimes would do this either.


#Person1#: Can I help you?
#Person2#: Yes, I need to buy a computer for this semester. I was told it is cheaper to buy computers here.
#Person1#: Well, you heard right. You can get an excellent deal on a new computer here. We have great discounts for students.
#Person2#: I don't know much about computers. But I know I want a desktop computer with a lot of memory. And I need a printer.
#Person1#: Well, first let's consider your computer. Here, for example, is a system I highly recommend--the Power Macintosh G3. It comes with 64 megabytes of total memory.
#Person2#: Is that a lot? Sixty-four?
#Person1#: Yes, it is. It should be enough for any student needs you might have. What department are you in?
#Person2#: History.
#Person1#: Well, so you will mostly be using word processing, for writing papers. I recommend the Corel Word Perfect program for word processing. We can talk about software later. Let's talk about your
#Person2#: Thirty percent?
#Person1#: Yes.
#Person2#: Wow. That's really good. And you think this is really a good system for a graduate student?
#Person1#: Yes. It's an excellent system.
#Person2#: Hmm. Hey, wait. This has an Apple on it. Is this an Apple computer?
#Person1#: Yes, it's a Macintosh. It's Apple. Macintosh and Apple are the same thing.
#Person2#: I don't want Macintosh. I want PC.
#Person1#: I'm sorry, but our university computer center only sells Macintosh equipment.
#Person2#: What? Are you serious?
#Person1#: Yes.
#Person2#: But nobody uses Macintosh!
#Person1#: That's not true. Most of the students and professors in the university here use Macintosh. They find it is better for writing and word-processing, and that is what students mostly do. Ma
#Person2#: Yes, I'm from Taiwan.
#Person1#: Well, I know that in most Asian countries Apple is not very popular. But here in America, especially in universities and publishing companies, Apple is very commonly used.
#Person2#: But I need a computer that can handle writing in Chinese.
#Person1#: There are several Chinese writing programs you can use with Macintosh. Chinese is no problem for Apple.
#Person2#: Hmm. I think I should ask some of my friends for advice before I make a decision. I'm sorry.
#Person1#: No, don't be sorry. It's reasonable to ask your friends. But believe me, most of the students here in the university--Asian students included--most of them use Apple.
#Person2#: Well, thanks for your advice. I will probably come back later.
#Person1#: You're very welcome. Here is my card, if you need any help.

Summary: #Person2# wants a computer. #Person1# recommends a Macintosh and offers great discounts for students, but #Person2# wants a PC. #Person1# tells #Person2# most of the students and professors in American universities use Apple and Chinese is no problem for Apple. #Person1# will ask #Person1#'s friends for advice and may come back later.


#Person1#: Where did you say you found your schoolbag?
#Person2#: It was lying under a tree between the language lab and the library building.
#Person1#: How do you like this bag?
#Person2#: Yah! It's strong and wonderfully designed.
#Person1#: How much is it?
#Person2#: 69 dollars and 50 cents.
#Person1#: I'll take one tomorrow. Oh. It's 6:30. I know the station gives the news every hour on the hour, but I don't know when they announce the weather.
#Person2#: Ten minutes to and ten minutes after the hour.
#Person1#: I see.

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# about #Person2#'s schoolbag and when the weather will be announced.


#Person1#: Hello! Is Mr. Green there?
#Person2#: Speaking. May I ask whom I am talking to?
#Person1#: This is Li with Silk Company. We met last Sunday during the exhibition.
#Person2#: Oh, yes. I remember your company.
#Person1#: Thank you for visiting our products. I remember that you are interested in our silk products and so, could I have a meeting with you this week to show you moreinformation about our products?
#Person2#: I'd like to, but I'm afraid that my schedule is full this week.
#Person1#: What about next week? Is it convenient for you?
#Person2#: Am. How about 10 a. m. on next Friday?
#Person1#: Any time you say is OK.
#Person2#: All right, expecting you.

Summary: Li with Silk Company wants to show Mr. Green more information about their products. They schedule a meeting next Friday.


#Person1#: I'm hungry, do you want to go to the burger shop and get something to eat?
#Person2#: Sure, but I need to stop at the drug store first. I need some vitamins.
#Person1#: Why do you want to waste your money? Vitamin pills don't really help you.
#Person2#: Chris, that's not true, actually more people should take them, because they play a vital role in good health.
#Person1#: How?
#Person2#: Many people don't eat healthy food like fruit and vegetables, and don't have a balanced diet, so a vitamin pill can provide some of the missing nutrients.
#Person1#: I know it's better to get all your nutrients from food, not from pills.
#Person2#: That's right, but a lot of people eat like you.
#Person1#: What does that mean?
#Person2#: Your diet consists of fast food and soft drinks, that's not healthy.

Summary: #Person2# needs to buy some vitamins. Chris can't understand that. #Person2# explains vitamin pills are vital for those who don't eat healthy food.


#Person1#: Where is John? I can't find him anywhere.
#Person2#: Haven't you heard that he is in prison?
#Person1#: What? Beg your pardon.
#Person2#: John is in prison now. He was copped outstealing.
#Person1#: I just cann't believe my ears!

Summary: #Person1# is surprised #Person2# says John is in prison.


#Person1#: You married Joe, didn't you?
#Person2#: Joe? I don't know what you mean.
#Person1#: I remember you are in love.
#Person2#: Oh, I took a shine to him when we met for the first time. But it comes and goes.
#Person1#: It's Greek to me.

Summary: #Person2# says she took a shine to Joe but the feeling has gone. #Person1# feels puzzled.


#Person1#: Hi, my wife just called me and asked me to pick up a dress that she had dry cleaned. The name is Doris Lockhart.
#Person2#: Do you have the number with you? We have everything arranged by number, not by name.
#Person1#: My wife didn't say anything about numbers. Look, there must be some way you can find it. She needs that dress for a dinner dance we are attending tonight.
#Person2#: I can look it up if you remember what day she brought it in. I can match her name up with the number in my order book.

Summary: #Person1# wants to pick up a dress for #Person1#'s wife but doesn't have the number. #Person2#'ll look it up if #Person1# can remember the day his wife brought the dress in.


#Person1#: Hi, happy new year!
#Person2#: Hey, the same to you!
#Person1#: Time flies! One year has already been a history!
#Person2#: Definitely, it's time to say bye-bye to the last year and to say hello to the new year!
#Person1#: Yeah. Have you made any good resolutions for this new year?
#Person2#: Some resolutions? That's a wonderful idea, but I have no idea yet. How about you?
#Person1#: I want to be healthier this year, so I think I should take more exercise.
#Person2#: That will be a good one! Anything else?
#Person1#: Maybe I should make a plan about learning my biochemistry, which is a mess!
#Person2#: Sounds great!

Summary: #Person1# wants to be healthier and do more exercise in the new year, #Person2# may make a plan about learning biochemistry.


#Person1#: Hello, what can I do for you?
#Person2#: Hello, I come to pay my water and electricity fees.
#Person1#: Give me your water and electricity bills, please.
#Person2#: Here they are.
#Person1#: You should pay 160 yuan for the electricity fee and 80 yuan for the water fee.
#Person2#: Do you mean that I should pay 240 yuan in total?
#Person1#: Yes. Will you pay by cash or credit card?
#Person2#: Cash, please. Here is the money.
#Person1#: I get 250 yuan from you, and this is the change, 10 yuan.
#Person2#: OK. Thank you. Bye-bye.
#Person1#: Bye.

Summary: #Person2# pays #Person2#'s water and electricity fees with #Person1#'s assistance.


#Person1#: Doctor, I feel much better now. Will I be albe to go home some time this week?
#Person2#: That's good to hear. You've had an ideal recovery from your operation. We're going to send you home tomorrow.
#Person1#: Do you think I can get back to work very soon?
#Person2#: Don't be in such a hurry. I'm confident that you'll be completely recovered in 4 to 6 weeks.
#Person1#: Is there anything I should do?
#Person2#: You'd better have a good rest for a week. Be sure to have regular meals. Stay away from alcohol. Give up smoking at least a little while.
#Person1#: Should I take some medicine?
#Person2#: Yes. I'm going to give you some. Take one tablet of this medicine three times a day before meals. For that one, two tablets. And remember to come to the outpatient department for a consultation in two weeks, please.
#Person1#: It's very kind of you.
#Person2#: You're welcome. We wish you a speedy recovery. Goodbye.

Summary: #Person2# says #Person1# can go home tomorrow but can't work very soon. #Person2# advises #Person1# to rest well, have regular meals, stop smoking, take medicine and have a consultation.


#Person1#: Oh, Tim! What happened to you? It's terrible enough for you to be here.
#Person2#: Kate, may be you can't believe it. It is just because of a little too much smoke. I'll be back home this evening.
#Person1#: How did this happen?
#Person2#: I had to go into a house that was on fire. There was still a little girl inside. I got her out.
#Person1#: But there was a lot of smoke.
#Person2#: Yes, a lot. I had some trouble breathing so they sent me here just for the doctors to take a look at me.
#Person1#: And now you tell me that it's all of your job.
#Person2#: Well, it is. You shouldn't worry all the time.
#Person1#: But I do. I hope you'll leave your job.
#Person2#: Leave my job? No, not because of a little smoke. I'm really all right.

Summary: Tim's in hospital because he went to save a little girl out of a firing house, which is Tim's job responsibilities. Kate's worried and hopes Tim can leave his job, but Tim won't listen.


#Person1#: I want to get in shape. I feel like a fence sitter, not really fat, but not really healthy.
#Person2#: I know what you mean. I fit into my clothes, but I'm not always comfortable.
#Person1#: Would you like to get in shape together?
#Person2#: What do you have in mind?
#Person1#: How about going to the gym? There's one really close to work.
#Person2#: I know the one you mean. Do you know how much the memberships are?
#Person1#: As a matter of fact, they are having a promotion right now.
#Person2#: Let's go after work and take a tour of the facilities.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# both want to get in shape. #Person1# suggests they go to the gym together.


#Person1#: Are you busy this week?
#Person2#: Yes. This morning I need to write a business report and this afternoon at 1:30, I'll discuss the report with the general manager.
#Person1#: What's your schedule for tomorrow?
#Person2#: I'm attending the sales meeting at 9 o'clock and in the afternoon at 3:00, I'm seeing Mr. .Black, the marketing manager.
#Person1#: What about Wednesday?
#Person2#: I've got an appointment at 8:30 with Mr. Anderson, the bank manager. In the afternoon, I'm taking the 4:45 flight to Hong Kong for the conference.
#Person1#: The conference is on Thursday, right?
#Person2#: Oh, yes. At 10 o'clock in the morning and 2 o'clock in the afternoon. After the conference, I'll be free. I'll be enjoying my weekend in Hong Kong.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# about #Person1#'s busy work schedule this week.


#Person1#: Can your dog do any tricks?
#Person2#: Sure he can. He can shake hands, roll over, and even play dead.
#Person1#: I wish I had a dog. My cat can't do any tricks.
#Person2#: Yeah, but sometimes Bingo wants to play with me, but I don't have time.
#Person1#: So who takes care of him then?
#Person2#: My little brother likes to play with him. He even gives him a bath every week.
#Person1#: I can't do that with my cat. She hates water.
#Person2#: You know, you're right. Maybe you should get a dog.

Summary: #Person1# says #Person1#'s cat can't do tricks and #Person1# can't give her a bath every week because she hates water. #Person2# thinks #Person1# should get a dog.


#Person1#: Is this the Friendship Hospital? Please send an ambulance to 68 Hu Nan Road.
#Person2#: Is it urgent? Our ambulances are not enough to meet every call.
#Person1#: Of course. It's urgent. I think the partient is suffering from acute appendicitis. He may die if not treated in time.
#Person2#: All right, we'll come right away.
#Person1#: Thank you.
#Person2#: Where's the patient?
#Person1#: He's there in the room. He's very ill.
#Person2#: Don't worry. We'll put him in the stretcher. You are coming with us? Step in please.
#Person1#: Carry him into the emergency ward. Here we are.
#Person2#: Help the patient bathe and change his clothes, nurse. Then bring him into the operating room.
#Person1#: I'm his guide. What's the trouble with him, doctor
#Person2#: He had appendicitis, but is all right now that it was removed. He'll have to rest for a few weeks to recover.
#Person1#: May I send food for him?
#Person2#: No, outside food is not permitted.
#Person1#: Can I come round to see him tomorrow?
#Person2#: Yes. But first you must observe the visiting hours, It's from 2 to 5 p. m. By the way, consult the nurse before you enter the ward.
#Person1#: Yes. Thank you.
#Person2#: By the way, you can bring some flowers.
#Person1#: OK.
#Person2#: Don't worry about him.
#Person1#: When could I take care of him?
#Person2#: Our nurse can take good care of him.

Summary: #Person1# calls for an ambulance because a patient is suffering from acute appendicitis. #Person2# comes and takes the patient to the hospital. The patient receives good treatment. #Person1# is allowed to come to see the patient.


#Person1#: Who is Cindy's husband?
#Person2#: Cindy's husband is Ron.
#Person1#: How many children do Cindy and Ron have?
#Person2#: They have two children-one son and one daughter-as well as one daughter-in-law and one son-in-law.
#Person1#: Do they have any grandchildren?
#Person2#: Yes, they have three grandchildren-one girl and two boys.
#Person1#: Does their daughter get along well with her in-laws?
#Person2#: Yes, she gets along with them quite well.
#Person1#: Do they have a large family?
#Person2#: Their family is very similar to Cindy and Ron's family.

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# for information about Cindy and Ron's family which have two children and three grandchildren.


#Person1#: I must point out that trials of new medicine are expensive and you can never guarantee success.
#Person2#: But there is a very good chance in this case. I hope you will go ahead in view of the potential benefit to mankind.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# have different ideas on trials of new medicine.


#Person1#: Dr. Thomas? This is Keet Bradley from Daily News. I'd like to ask you some questions about the new official standard weight that you purchased.
#Person2#: I'd be happy to help you. What would you like to know?
#Person1#: First of all, how was the standard weight used?
#Person2#: Well, the people in our department use it to check the scales all over the country. The department of weights and measures, we are a government agency. It's our responsibility to see that all the scales measure a kilogram accurately so this is the way we use to adjust the scales.
#Person1#: How did you check the scales before?
#Person2#: We have an old standard weight that we used to use. It had to be replaced because it was imprecise. You see it was made of poor quality metal that was too porous. It absorbed too much moisture.
#Person1#: Oh. So when the weather was humid it weighed more and when it was dry it weighed less.
#Person2#: Exactly. And that variation can affect the standards of the whole country. So our department had the new weight made out of higher quality metal.
#Person1#: How much did it cost?
#Person2#: About 45 thousand dollars.
#Person1#: 45 000 dollars? For one kilogram weight? That's more expensive than gold. Is it really worth that much?
#Person2#: I'm sure it is. Industries depend on our government agency to monitor the accuracy of scales so that when they buy and sell their products there is one standard. Think of the drug industry, for example, those companies rely on high accuracy scales to manufacture and package medicine.

Summary: Keet Bradley from Daily News asks Dr. Thomas about the new official standard weight. Dr. Thomas tells her it was used to adjust the scales. They bought it because the old one was imprecise, so they replaced it with one made of higher quality metal which costs about 45 thousand dollars


#Person1#: Hi! How are you going?
#Person2#: Fine, thank you. How are you doing this morning?
#Person1#: Not bad. How about you? Haven't seen you for a long time.
#Person2#: Yes. I've been to New York. I got back only yesterday.
#Person1#: Did you enjoy yourself?
#Person2#: Very much. New York is such a nice place. Shall I show you some photographs?
#Person1#: Thanks, I like looking at photographs. How nice! Oh, I'm afraid I must be going now. I've got an appointment. Have a good day.
#Person2#: You too. I hope to see you soon. Goodbye.
#Person1#: Goodbye.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# that #Person2# has been to New York and shows #Person1# photographs.


#Person1#: Did you catch the mouse yet? I know you wanted to get rid of it before your mom comes to stay with you.
#Person2#: I didn't. 2 weeks of planning and nothing. My mom always wants the house to be clean. I don't want her to know I had a mouse here. She would be so uncomfortable.
#Person1#: Well, the traps usually work if you put peanut butter in them. You can take the mouse out to a field and let it go.
#Person2#: I bought some of those and tried the peanut butter, but it didn't really work. It sure did love that peanut butter though.
#Person1#: Well, how about a trap that has glue on it? You could still let it go later.
#Person2#: I tried that too. But I think this is a very small mouse. It didn't weigh enough to get stuck.
#Person1#: What are you going to do?
#Person2#: Well, I have one day to catch it. If not, I'll have to think of a story to tell mom. She's only here for 7 days. Maybe I can start talking about how I lost my little pet mouse.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2# has tried several ways to catch the mouse but failed. If #Person1# still can't catch it before #Person1#'s mom comes, #Person1#'ll make up a story.


#Person1#: What can I do for you?
#Person2#: I am coming to inquire about the information of the company. When was this company established?
#Person1#: Well, this company can be dated back to 1893, so it has a hundred years of history.
#Person2#: Really? That is amazing.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# the company was established in 1893.


#Person1#: Have you graduated now?
#Person2#: Yes. I graduated this past June.
#Person1#: Which university did you graduate from?
#Person2#: Guangzhou University.
#Person1#: What degree did you receive?
#Person2#: I received a bachelor's degree in Economics.
#Person1#: What courses did you take in college?
#Person2#: My major courses were Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, International Trade, International Finance, World Economy, Psychology and Business English
#Person1#: Why did you choose to study Economics?
#Person2#: Because I was quite interested in Economics then.
#Person1#: Can you speak other languages except English?
#Person2#: I can also speak a little Japanese.
#Person1#: I am very satisfied with your answers.
#Person2#: Thank you very much.

Summary: #Person2# graduated from Guangzhou University with a bachelor's degree in Economics this June. #Person2# tells #Person1# the courses #Person2# takes and the languages #Person2# speaks.


#Person1#: I need some mascara. Do you have good thickening mascara?
#Person2#: Of course. Here is our thickening mascara. We also have mascara designed to lengthen the eyelashes.
#Person1#: Alright. And I want to consider your eye shadow too. Do you have a color chart can look at?
#Person2#: We have a very wide selection of colors. And our eye shadow is specially designed to moisturize the skin. So it is very gentle on your eyelids. Would you like to sample some?
#Person1#: Oh, sure I will need to clean off my own eye shadow first.
#Person2#: I can help you with that.
#Person1#: Thank you.

Summary: #Person1# needs thickening mascara and eye shadow. #Person2# recommends some products and helps #Person1# clean off the eye shadow before sampling them.


#Person1#: What do you think of this dress? Do you think it suits me?
#Person2#: Sure. Why don ' t you try it on? The fitting room is over there.
#Person1#: It ' s just the right size-a perfect fit! Have you seen anything you like?
#Person2#: I ' m thinking about buying this sweater. I know it ' s June now, but it will be perfect for autumn and winter.
#Person1#: It looks too big for you, but I like the color and the material is good quality. Is it on sale?
#Person2#: Yes, it ' s half price. It ' s supposed to be too large--that ' s the fashion.
#Person1#: I might get one too, but in a different color. I prefer light blue to white.
#Person2#: There.It looks great, don ' t you think? I ' m going to get these jeans as well. I need a new pair. I ' m also going to buy this scarf ready for winter.
#Person1#: I ' m getting this beret? Doesn ' t it look cool? I ' d like to get some jeans too, but I don ' t have enough cash on me.
#Person2#: Don ' t worry. I ' Ve got my credit card. You can pay me back later.
#Person1#: Thanks! Now I don ' t need to come back to the shop a second time.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are shopping. #Person1#'ll get a dress, a sweater in light blue, and a beret. #Person2#'ll buy a sweater in white, a pair of jeans, and a scarf. #Person1# also wants the jeans but she doesn't bring enough cash. #Person2# offers to help pay by credit card.


#Person1#: When is your birthday?
#Person2#: August 1st.
#Person1#: Do you usually have a birthday party?
#Person2#: Yes, we do. My parents prepare dinner for me.
#Person1#: What would you do at the party?
#Person2#: We sing' Happy Birthday' at the party and have birthday cakes.
#Person1#: Do you know when people began to sing the song'Happy Birthday'?
#Person2#: Well, I don't know.
#Person1#: Let me tell you the story. In 1892, Patty Smith Hill and Mildred Hill wrote a song called' Good Morning to you'. But later someone added the words 'Happy Birthday' to their tune.
#Person2#: So the 'Happy Birthday' song has been popular since then?
#Person1#: Yes, actually, the song has been sung since its publication in 1932. People all over the world have sung it in many different languages.

Summary: #Person2# usually has a birthday party prepared by #Person2#'s parents. #Person1# tells #Person2# the story of the song 'Happy Birthday'.


#Person1#: David, why didn't you clean the room?
#Person2#: I'm not in the mood.
#Person1#: Why are you feeling depressed?
#Person2#: I was told my girlfriend was speaking ill of me. That's a real let-down.
#Person1#: I don't think she will do such a thing.
#Person2#: But she did and made me disappointed.
#Person1#: Oh, cheer up. A girlfriend is not everything.
#Person2#: But she means a lot to me.
#Person1#: Then forgive her mistake.

Summary: David is depressed because his girlfriend spoke ill of him. #Person1# suggests David forgive her.


#Person1#: Well, humans could never make something like that.
#Person2#: Those poor Egyptians slaves worked so hard and you want to give aliens all the credit!
#Person1#: Be a little more open-minded, Stu! Don't believe everything you read in your history books!
#Person2#: OK, but don't believe everything you see on The X-files, either!
#Person1#: Speaking of The X-files, it's on right now!

Summary: #Person1# thinks it's aliens who built the pyramids while Stu believes it's Egyptians' work.


#Person1#: How did you first meet?
#Person2#: My roommate invited both of us to dinner.
#Person1#: Was it love at first sight? Did you fall in love with her the first time you met her?
#Person2#: Yes! The first time I saw her I knew we would fall in love.

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# how #Person2# fell in love with the girl.


#Person1#: Hello, I've got a letter here that I'd like to post.
#Person2#: Yes, where's it to, madam?
#Person1#: Well, the letter is going to a friend of mine in America and it's quite urgent. It really needs to be posted today, so here you are.
#Person2#: You want to send it airmail, madam?
#Person1#: I do want to send it airmail, yes.

Summary: #Person2# helps #Person1# to send a letter by airmail to America.


#Person1#: Hey, how are you doing?
#Person2#: Uh, I guess okay ... kind of.
#Person1#: Yeah, Mom said Daniel isn't doing so well. What's going on?
#Person2#: Well, uh, for some reason I always thought raising kids would be a lot easier than it is.
#Person1#: Yeah, I know. Tell me about it. What's, what's the problem?
#Person2#: Well, for about six months, he's been really down, and sometimes, I can't get him out of bed in the morning to go to school. He just seems so depressed. I just can't figure it out.
#Person1#: So, this has been going on like half a year?
#Person2#: Yeah, kind of on and off, but I don't know. I ... I just thought it would just kind of go away, and I just thought things would just get, I don't know, get better.
#Person1#: Yeah, that's not, that's pretty worrrisome. Um, I mean, I've noticed he's not hanging out with Jared very much anymore. You know, is he ... what's he doing when he's up?
#Person2#: Well, uh, a lot of the time he's not up. He just kind of uh, stays in bed. [ Really? ] I just can't figure it out. I don't know.
#Person1#: Yeah, that's, that's a big problem. I can see why you're really worried about him. Have you considered taken him to see a therapist, or a psychologist, or anybody?
#Person2#: Ah, no. I, I ... It's probably just a phase or something. I think some kids were picking on him at school, but I think that's stopped. He doesn't talk about it anymore, so I guess that's over.
#Person1#: So, you're saying that he was like being bullied and stuff?
#Person2#: Yes, yeah. But he didn't talk about it a lot. I thought it was just, you know, having some problems, and it just kind of would go away.
#Person1#: Well, you know, I don't know about that with the bullying or whatever, but you know, this has been going on for a long time. You really need to seriously address it.
#Person2#: I don't know. Uh, and well, his girlfriend just broke up with him, so I guess maybe that's had an impact on him.
#Person1#: Yeah, it has. Uh, that explains a lot. Um, have you looked at his Facebook page lately? [ What? ] He posted some stuff, well, he was posting some stuff, I think it was last night around midnight, um, yeah, talking about how much life sucks, wishing he could just disappear. [ Oh! ] Um, you know, I can't remember exactly the words he said, but I know that it really, really worried me. Some of the things he wrote are signs of, they might be thinking about suicide.
#Person2#: Ah, I, I, I just can't figure that out. I mean, kids sometimes just talk like that. I, I, I thought. I thought that was kind of natural.
#Person1#: Yes, sometimes they do that. That's what makes it hard. Sometimes, kids just talk like that, but some of them are serious, and some of them end up talking their own lives. Some of them really do kill themselves. You know, you need to take this seriously. Six months (of being depressed) isn't normal. Six months isn't just to act like this isn't just a phase. It's, there's something going on.
#Person2#: So, any ideas? I mean, what should I do? I'm just kind of at a loss here.
#Person1#: Oh, you know. I was talking to a woman the other day about her daughter. Um, there are crisis numbers you can call. Also, you could go to the hospital; you can do to the emergency room, and they do assessments there. Psychological assessments. [ Okay. ] Um, you know, it might be kind of hard to get him out to the hospital, to get him out to go with you if you can't get him out to go to school, but you need to take this seriously. [ Yeah ... ] You could take him down to the hospital, down to the emergency room, so ...
#Person2#: I don't know.
#Person1#: You know, it's really important because you've got to get on top of it. He needs you; he needs to know that you really love him, that you're not just kind of ignoring this.
#Person2#: You know, I recently noticed that that I just saw some marks on his arms the other day, and I didn't know. I asked him about it. Kind of looked like some scratches, or something, and ...
#Person1#: I saw those too, and those aren't scratches. They're too deep to be scratches. He's doing self-harm, too.
#Person2#: Oh, man.
#Person1#: You know, um, these are really serious things, and he's crying out for help. He doesn't know how to handle what is going on in his life. He's really struggling.
#Person2#: You know, about a month ago, there was another boy in school, I think it (he) was about his age that, uh, took his own life, and I am wondering if that's had an impact on him.
#Person1#: Umm, don't you think it would have?
#Person2#: Probably. I don't know how well he knew the boy, but uh, I don't know.
#Person1#: Yeah, things like that do have an impact on kids, and you just can't run the risk. He might be mad at you for hauling him down to to the hospital, but you need help to find out what's going on, so that you can support him, and so you can make sure you are getting him all the help that he can have. These things are serious, and you don't want to look back later and say I wish I had done that.
#Person2#: Right. Well, yeah, send me that information, and uh, I'll start looking at it.
#Person1#: Alright, thanks. Man: Thanks.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# #Person2#'s kid Daniel has been down for six months and sometimes #Person2# can't get him out of bed to go to school. #Person2# can't figure it out and suspects that Daniel was like being bulled and stuff. #Person1# says the stuff Daniel posted on his Facebook page might be signs of suicide, but #Person2# thought it was kind of natural for kids just talk like that. #Person1# advises #Person2# to take it seriously and take Daniel down to the hospital or the emergency room. #Person2# tells #Person1# about the suicide of another boy in school, which may have an impact on Daniel. #Person1# thinks Daniel is struggling and advises #Person2# to support Daniel and get him all the help that he can have.


#Person1#: Good afternoon. How can I help you?
#Person2#: Good afternoon. My name is Monica. I am here for the job interview at 2 PM.
#Person1#: Ok, please first fill in the form and return it to me. You can do it in the next door.
#Person2#: Done. Here is my paper.
#Person1#: Everybody attention. I would like to make sure you all know the process. The interview consists of three parts. One, all of the interviewees will answer the question there and lasts for maximum one hour. Two, we will take a 30 - minute's break. After the break, we all come back to this office and I will announce the successful candidates for the 2nd round. In which, you have a small interview with your future manager.
#Person2#: What about the 3rd round?
#Person1#: Good question. But I will tell you when you pass the first two.

Summary: Monica's going to attend a job interview. #Person1# guides her to fill in the form and describes the interview process to all the interviewees.


#Person1#: One Grand Slam breakfast for you!
#Person2#: Thanks. You know, I just noticed that these eggs are fried, and I ordered scrambled.
#Person1#: Thank you for pointing that out. I mistakenly gave you your friend's breakfast.
#Person2#: Not a problem. I can just trade my plate with his.
#Person1#: A special order of banana pancakes for you!
#Person2#: Pancakes? I don't like pancakes. I ordered waffles.
#Person1#: I am so sorry, madam!
#Person2#: I can eat my bacon and eggs while you are exchanging my pancakes for waffles.
#Person1#: I will go trade those pancakes for waffles right now.
#Person2#: That would take care of it, thank you.

Summary: #Person1# mistakenly serves #Person2# with #Person2#'s friend's breakfast and then serves #Person2# pancakes but #Person2# ordered waffles. #Person1# will fix it soon.


#Person1#: That woman is a very good singer.
#Person2#: Yes, but she looks like a man.
#Person1#: What difference does it make?
#Person2#: Female singers are supposed to be pretty.
#Person1#: Singers are supposed to sing well.
#Person2#: They should look good, too.
#Person1#: There are lots of ugly men singers.
#Person2#: Men singers don't have to look good.
#Person1#: Then neither do women singers.
#Person2#: Well, I would never buy her CD.
#Person1#: But you would buy her CD if she was pretty?
#Person2#: Yes, I would buy all of her CDs.

Summary: #Person2# thinks women singers should look pretty but #Person1# thinks they are supposed to sing well.


#Person1#: Hi Jenny, I'm calling to ask you if you want to go to the park with us tomorrow.
#Person2#: I'd like to but I cannot. I'm leaving for New York tomorrow.
#Person1#: Are you going there to see a friend?
#Person2#: No, I'm going there for work.
#Person1#: Will you go by train or plane?
#Person2#: Neither. David is driving to New York tomorrow. He'll give me a lift.
#Person1#: That will be a long trip.
#Person2#: Yes, but Lisa will go with us too. We can talk and listen to music on the way.
#Person1#: How long are you staying for?
#Person2#: Just 5 days. Oh, I have to pack now. I'll call you when I come back.
#Person1#: OK. Bye.

Summary: #Person1# invites Jenny to go to the park tomorrow but Jenny is leaving for New York for work.


#Person1#: Is Jack still staying idle everyday?
#Person2#: No, he has mended his way. After his father died, he set his hand to the job of putting his business affairs in order.
#Person1#: Really? He is so competent now.
#Person2#: You can't imagine what he is like now.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are talking about Jack who becomes competent after his father died.


#Person1#: Did you watch television last night, Charles?
#Person2#: Yes, I did.
#Person1#: It was a good game, wasn't it?
#Person2#: Oh, I didn't watch the football match. I wanted to but my wife preferred to see the old film.
#Person1#: What a pity. It was quite exciting. Both teams played very well.
#Person2#: How did it finish?
#Person1#: It finished in a draw. What was the film like?
#Person2#: It was quite good. But. I missed the beginning of it because I had to eat first.
#Person1#: Did your wife enjoy it?
#Person2#: No, she didn't. After half an hour she stopped watching and started to read a book.

Summary: #Person1# wants to talk about the good football game, but Charles watched a movie instead. However, Charles and his wife didn't enjoy it.


#Person1#: Have you travelled much?
#Person2#: Well, I've been around the world several times.
#Person1#: What countries have you visited?
#Person2#: I have been to France, Italy, Japan and Ireland.
#Person1#: Why did you visit them? Was it just for vacation or work?
#Person2#: In most cases, it was just for vacation. I once worked in France for two years.
#Person1#: Have you ever been to Britain on vacation?
#Person2#: Oh, yes. I've often been to Britain.

Summary: #Person2# has traveled to many countries mostly for vacation except for France.


#Person1#: What's the price? I hope you'll quote us favorably.
#Person2#: It's 800 US dollars per kilo CIF five percent Hamburg.
#Person1#: Frankly speaking, the price you offer is too high. We can't accept it.
#Person2#: Why? This is a fair market price.
#Person1#: It certainly is.
#Person2#: Then what leads you to think that we have to reduce our price? Please tell me candidly.
#Person1#: I look at it this way, suppliers should be able to reduce their CIF price, even lower than their home price.
#Person2#: We give you quotations on the same basis as we quote in the domestic market.
#Person1#: That's the point. Your overhead is in your domestic price, but it can't be carried in the CIF price.
#Person2#: But even with the overhead out, the export overhead must be put in. Finally, it comes to the same thing. Anyway, this is a quality item and should be sold on its value.
#Person1#: I wish you could make a reconsideration. If you don't reduce your price, we won't purchase from you any more because there's plenty of other business offering here.

Summary: #Person1# thinks the price #Person2# offers is too high but #Person2# insists the item is worth it. #Person1# won't purchase from #Person2# if #Person2# doesn't reduce the price.


#Person1#: I have lots of friends.
#Person2#: Really? How many do you have?
#Person1#: I don't know, maybe one hundred.
#Person2#: That is a lot of friends. Do you have a best friend?
#Person1#: Of course. I have lots of best friends.
#Person2#: How many best friends do you have?
#Person1#: I think about twenty-five.
#Person2#: Hmm. I have only one best friend.
#Person1#: I feel sorry for you.
#Person2#: I have only a few friends.
#Person1#: You must be lonely. I will share my friends with you.
#Person2#: That's very nice of you.

Summary: #Person1# has many friends, but #Person2# only has a few, so #Person1# will share friends with #Person2#.


#Person1#: Could I ask some questions regarding to the social benefits?
#Person2#: Go ahead, please.
#Person1#: How long is my paid vacation every year?
#Person2#: You'll have 10 days paid vacation every year.
#Person1#: What about the insurance and housing policies?
#Person2#: We will provide you wit life insurance, health insurance, accident insurance, housing benefits, heating allowance and transportation allowance.
#Person1#: How often is the bonus?
#Person2#: You'll be paid a bonus at the end of every year.
#Person1#: Do I have training opportunities?
#Person2#: We provide our employees with training opportunities at home and abroad.
#Person1#: Well, I don't have any other questions so far. I would like to think a couple of days before I give you my final answer.
#Person2#: Sure. I will ask Lucy to call you in two days.
#Person1#: Ok, thank you for your time and patience.
#Person2#: You're welcome.

Summary: #Person1# asks #Person2# about the social benefits, such as the length of #Person1#'s paid vacation, the insurance and housing policies, the bonus, and training opportunities. #Person1# will give #Person2# #Person1#'s final answer in two days.


#Person1#: Is everything ready for Billy's birthday party?
#Person2#: Yes. I'Ve finished making the birthday cake and I'Ve put all the things on the table. Did you find the party hats?
#Person1#: Yes, I did. I'Ve put one on the table for each child. I put up the big ' happy birthday ' sign too.
#Person2#: Thanks. Do you think we have enough for the kids to eat and drink?
#Person1#: I'm sure of that. There's enough food here to feed an army!
#Person2#: That birthday cake looks wonderful, but you haven't put any candles on it yet.
#Person1#: Thanks for reminding me. I'Ve prepared some party games for the children too.
#Person2#: I'Ve brought a tape with lots of children's songs on it.
#Person1#: Hopefully, that will keep everyone happy.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# have prepared enough food for Billy's birthday party. #Person2# reminds #Person1# to put candles and they have both prepared games for children.


#Person1#: A guy in my office got the flu the other day. Today I seem to have come down with it, too.
#Person2#: Very likely. You have a slight fever. Do you have a headache, too?
#Person1#: Yes. I wonder if you could do something to help me recover soon, because I'll be on a business trip in two days.
#Person2#: Well, you have to let your flu run its course. You must stop working and stay in bed to get plenty of rest. Usually it will take 4 to 6 days to make a full recovery.
#Person1#: But I'm going on a business trip in two days!
#Person2#: Maybe you'll have to cancel it or postpone it. If you go out while you are sick, it won't help you recover. You may even pass your disease on to others.

Summary: #Person1# got the flu. #Person1# wants to recover soon because #Person1#'ll be on a business trip. #Person2# suggests letting the flu run its course and canceling the business trip.


#Person1#: Excuse me. Can I ask you a question?
#Person2#: Sure. What is it?
#Person1#: I don't know how to say it in English.
#Person2#: We call this a'parking meter'.
#Person1#: Oh, Thank you. But how do you spell it?
#Person2#: P-a-r-k-i-n-g m-e-t-e-r.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# how to say parking meter and spell it.


#Person1#: That looks like an interesting book.
#Person2#: It is. It's got pictures of interesting building from all over the world, with brief descriptions of how they were build, their purpose, and so on.
#Person1#: There are the pyramids. It's easy to see how they got that name! they don't have smooth sides though.
#Person2#: They don't now, but most of them did originally. There's picture of the pentagon in the united states. It's very distinctive with its five sides.
#Person1#: Look at that cylindrical office building. I'Ve never been seen one that shape before.
#Person2#: Yes. Usually only TV towers are cylindrical in shape.
#Person1#: TV towers are usually thicker at the bottom than at the top. They're not perfectly cylindrical.
#Person2#: This is the world's largest sports stadium. It's a massive oval.
#Person1#: What sports do they play there?
#Person2#: It says here that it's m mainly used for big football matches and athletics meetings.
#Person1#: Is that building a perfect cube?
#Person2#: According to the book, it is. I'Ve never seen a building that is a perfect cube. Look at the building. From the air, it looks like a square with a semi-circle attached to each of its four sides. What
#Person1#: Is says here that it's a war memorial. Now, there's a distinctive structure-the stomium in Brussels. See? It consists of several connected by cylinders. I believe you can go up and down inside it.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are talking about a book that introduces interesting buildings from all over the world, including pyramids, the pentagon, the cylindrical office building, the world's largest sports stadium, etc.


#Person1#: It's amazing to me how international business has become. Take my store for example. On any given day, you will find imported items from more than 20 different countries on our shelves.
#Person2#: How many different varieties of products do you import from China?
#Person1#: China provides the bulk of our product inventory, for sure. We import more than 40 different items from China. Most of the imports that come out of China are low-grade plastics or toys. Japan produces many electronic exports, Germany produces excellent mechanical exports.
#Person2#: Do you import any food items?
#Person1#: Generally speaking, food items are difficult to import. Food with the short shelf life is liable to spoil in the time it takes to ship from one place to another. The only food items we import are specialty canned or preserved foods. The shelf life is longer for these products.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# #Person1# has imported various items from different countries in #Person1#'s store. The only food items #Person1# imports are specialty canned or preserved foods.


#Person1#: Look at this headline, Soo Mi.
#Person2#: Wow! So many people in the United States get divorced!
#Person1#: Is it the same in Korea?
#Person2#: I don't think so. In Korea some marriages break up, but most couples stay together.
#Person1#: Do people get married young?
#Person2#: Not really. Very few people get married beforethe age of 20.
#Person1#: Hmm. Do women usually work after they get married?
#Person2#: No, a lot of women stay home and take care of their families. But some work.

Summary: Soo Mi is surprised that many people in the US get divorced and tells #Person1# about the marriages in Korea.


#Person1#: Hey, Devi, have you thought about where would you like to go to dinner on Friday for your birthday?
#Person2#: I am not sure. I don't know that many restaurants around here.
#Person1#: You know, we could look online at the local Internet sites.
#Person2#: Good. Let's take a look!
#Person1#: What kind of food would you like?
#Person2#: I enjoy Thai or Japanese the best.
#Person1#: This one, Shogun, looks good.
#Person2#: Oh yes, I've heard of that one. Everyone I've spoken with says that it is great!
#Person1#: Would you like to go there then?
#Person2#: I think that that would be a really good choice! Let's call and make a reservation.

Summary: #Person1# and Devi to look online at the local Internet sites and decide a restaurant for Devi's birthday.


#Person1#: How may I help you?
#Person2#: I need to get on the Internet.
#Person1#: Do you have your library card with you?
#Person2#: Yes, I have it.
#Person1#: You're going to have to wait for a computer.
#Person2#: That's okay.
#Person1#: Please put your name on this list.
#Person2#: Then what do I need to do?
#Person1#: When there is a computer available, I will call you.
#Person2#: What do I do to log on to the computer?
#Person1#: Just type in the number on the back of your library card.
#Person2#: Okay. Thanks for your help.

Summary: #Person2# wants to get on the Internet. #Person1# asks #Person2# to wait until there is a computer available.


#Person1#: Wow, you look like a drowned rat. Didn't you know there's a thunderstorm today?
#Person2#: I knew there would be a rain, but I didn't expect it would rain cats and dogs today.
#Person1#: Well, you'd better take a hot shower right now, or you'll catch a cold.
#Person2#: You are right. I don't want to get sick. Could you put my wet clothes into the washing machine?
#Person1#: No problem.

Summary: #Person2# didn't expect the rain to be heavy, so #Person2# is drowned. #Person1# advises #Person2# to shower.


#Person1#: Oh, I think I broke my leg.
#Person2#: Here, sir. Sit down in this wheel chair.
#Person1#: Thanks.
#Person2#: The doctor will be with you in a moment. I just need to ask you a few questions.
#Person1#: All right.
#Person2#: Name, age and date of birth, please?
#Person1#: James Taylor, 23, March 30, 1982.
#Person2#: Health insurance company and policy No?
#Person1#: I don't have it.
#Person2#: What?
#Person1#: I don't have health insurance.
#Person2#: Well, this is going to be a very expensive broken leg, Mr. Taylor.
#Person1#: Oh!

Summary: Mr. Taylor broke his leg. #Person2# asks him some questions before the doctor comes.


#Person1#: Lisa, are there family rules in this house?
#Person2#: Well, I wouldn't call them rules, but there are some things that I expect my daughter to do.
#Person1#: Like what?
#Person2#: Setting the table and doing the dishes.
#Person1#: Is there anything else?
#Person2#: I also expect Cindy to tidy up her own room.
#Person1#: Her room is very neat and clean.
#Person2#: Yeah. She's a very responsible person.
#Person1#: I will keep my room clean, too. That's a promise.

Summary: Lisa tells #Person1# she expects her daughter to do in the house. #Person1# promises to keep the room clean too.


#Person1#: I ' d like to open a savings account. Can you tell me how to do it?
#Person2#: Ok, you have to fill out the form. And I let me see three identification cards or documents.
#Person1#: I have the driver ' s license, a membership card and my passport. Would we do?
#Person2#: Let me see them. Yes. There ' re ok.
#Person1#: What ' s the minimum amount I can deposit in an account?
#Person2#: You can deposit and ensure amount of ten dollars.
#Person1#: Thank you.

Summary: #Person2# helps #Person1# open a savings account and tells #Person1# the minimum deposit amount is ten dollars.


#Person1#: I went to visit a customer in IVS Company the other day. Their offices were very impressive, especially their company Logo which is all over the place. There are Logo models in metal, copper, clove, paper. They are even printed on the wall paper and the balls of the table-lights. It is really decorated identity.
#Person2#: It is just too much. Don't you feel it is an exaggerating style to decorate offices in that way?
#Person1#: Not at all! I like the design so much. The designer must have thought really hard to come out with such a brilliant concept.
#Person2#: Wow, I doubt that.

Summary: #Person1# likes the design of IVS Company which has the company logo all over the place but #Person2# thinks it's exaggerating.


#Person1#: IMPF Bank, Li Lan speaking, how may I help you?
#Person2#: Hello, Ms. Li, this is Mr. Peng.
#Person1#: Hello, Mr. Peng, how nice to hear from you again. What can I do for you today?
#Person2#: We'll be coming in tomorrow to make a rather large cash withdrawal, it's for payroll.
#Person1#: I see. How much exactly?
#Person2#: 500, 000 RIB. Do you need me to give you my account number?
#Person1#: No, that's OK. I've got all of your information here on the screen in front of me. The money will be ready and waiting for you tomorrow.
#Person2#: Thanks very much for your help, Li Lan. See you tomorrow.

Summary: Mr. Peng calls Li Lan at IMPF Bank to withdraw 500, 000 RIB. Mr. Peng can get the money tomorrow.


#Person1#: You've had a part-time job, haven't you?
#Person2#: Yes, I have.
#Person1#: Could you earn a lot of money?
#Person2#: No, only a little.
#Person1#: Would you like to work this summer to make some extra money?
#Person2#: I think so.

Summary: #Person2# wants to work this summer to make extra money.


#Person1#: Have you seen Kate recently, Vicky?
#Person2#: Yes, I have. I saw her a couple of days ago. She hasn't been very well in the last couple of weeks.
#Person1#: Has she seen a doctor since she's been ill?
#Person2#: Yes, she has. The doctor told her to take it easy for a while, but she hasn't been taking his advice. She's as busy as usual.
#Person1#: Do you think it useful for me to ask her to have a rest when I go to see her? Or shall we go together?
#Person2#: I think you can go yourself and show your concern to her since she sometimes would take your advice. So it's unnecessary for me to go with you. What's more, I've got some other things to do at the moment.

Summary: #Person1# asks about Kate. Vicky tells #Person1# Kate isn't very well and suggests #Person1# ask Kate to have a rest.


#Person1#: We have one day to visit the big city, can you give us some advice?
#Person2#: Yes, you can take a limo, a tour bus or just walk.
#Person1#: I don't think we can visit the city in one day just by walking. How much does the limo cost?
#Person2#: $ 50 a day.

Summary: #Person1# decides to visit the city by limo after hearing #Person2#'s advice.


#Person1#: Foreign Currency Deposits Counter, yes. What can I do for you?
#Person2#: You see, I have these Euros, and of course they are of no use to me at the moment. So I'd like to save them in my account, but I'm not sure how to go about it.
#Person1#: OK. We offer 2 types of saving systems, Time Savings and Demand Savings. With Time Savings your money cannot be withdrawn for a certain period of time, but with Demand Savings your money is'on demand', you can withdraw at any time.
#Person2#: I see. What's the interest like on those?
#Person1#: There's quite a large difference. I mean, if you were to use demand deposit we could give you 0. 13 % interest, but for a time deposit, of say, 1 year we would offer 0. 82 %.
#Person2#: Yes, I couldn't agree with you more. A 1 year time deposit it is!

Summary: #Person2# wants to save some Euros in #Person2#'s account. #Person1# introduces two types of saving systems. #Person2# chooses a time deposit due to its high interest.


#Person1#: I'd like to cancel my reservation on flight MS701 to Warsaw on the 23rd. My name is Michael.
#Person2#: Hold on for a moment. ( a few minutes later ) I have cancelled your reservation. Shall I make another one for you?
#Person1#: No, thanks.
#Person2#: I see. Please call us again for any further reservation. Thanks for calling us.

Summary: #Person2# helps Michael to cancel his reservation on flight MS701.


#Person1#: Did you get Bean's ten different good luck forwards, like that one from the Dalai Lama?
#Person2#: Yeah, I deleted all that superstitious crap. What a waste of bandwidth!
#Person1#: I figured I might as well send one or two of them out. Maybe my luck will get better.
#Person2#: Do you really think the Dalai Lama sent that? I'm tired of all these forwards.
#Person1#: It's worth a shot. Maybe we'll get some luck in thinking up something for this case.

Summary: #Person1# may send out one or two forwards from Bean to get better luck from the Dalai Lama while #Person2# believes it superstitious.


#Person1#: Did you see today's newspaper? That building over there in center view was just struck by lightning for the fourth time.
#Person2#: I'm not surprised. If the conditions for lightning to strike are right one time, they might be as good another time.
#Person1#: Well, I don't take any chances. If I'm caught in a thunderstorm, I will look for a building or a closed car. Also, I was told that if you're stuck outdoors, the best thing you can do is to keep yourself close to the ground and avoid bodies of water.
#Person2#: To tell you the truth, even when I'm at home, I don't take baths or showers during a thunderstorm. And I don't use anything that works electrically. Maybe I'm too anxious.
#Person1#: I wouldn't say that. According to the article, lightning starts thousands of fires every year in the United States alone. Hundreds of people are injured or even killed. I think you're just being sensible.

Summary: #Person1# tells #Person2# the news about a building getting struck by lightning. They talk about what they would do during a thunderstorm to be safe.


#Person1#: Can I help you, madam?
#Person2#: Yes, can I see a few T-shirts, Please?
#Person1#: Certainly. Here you are. They're the very latest fashion.
#Person2#: I'm not very particular about the design. But I want something of good quality.
#Person1#: They're of good cotton and the color never fades.

Summary: #Person2# wants to buy some T-shirts of good quality.


#Person1#: Dad, you've been driving for three hours. Why don't we have a switch?
#Person2#: There're a lot of chuckholes on this old highway. Driving on it is experience-demanding.
#Person1#: Trust me. I've been driving for two years.
#Person2#: Ok. You drive and do be careful.

Summary: #Person2# has been driving for 3 hours so #Person1# suggests a switch. #Person2# accepts and tells #Person1# to be careful.


#Person1#: Hi Peter, what are you doing?
#Person2#: I am reading some papers about stock.
#Person1#: Ah, Great! I happen to want to ask you something about it!
#Person2#: Yes, sure. What it is?
#Person1#: When it comes to select a fund, many people will always read 'Past performance is not an indication of future results', do you believe that?
#Person2#: Maybe it is right since everything is possible. You know the market changes quickly these days.
#Person1#: Do you really think so? But I still have doubted those funds with bad stock performance. For me, a stock record is the very important criteria to decide which to buy. I really want to decrease the risk reach the minimum and achieve the maximum returns.
#Person2#: If you refuse to take risk, you can't have better returns.
#Person1#: Sure, maybe you are right. I will think about it. Thanks a lot!
#Person2#: You are most welcome.

Summary: #Person1# wants to reach the minimum risk and achieve maximum returns, but Peter says if #Person1# refuses to take risk, #Person1# can't have better returns.


#Person1#: Oh, no. We're going to be late for the meeting.
#Person2#: No. We'll get a cab. It's faster than taking the bus or the subway.
#Person1#: Oh, good. How much will it cost?
#Person2#: Well, cabs are more expensive than the bus or the subway. It'll probably cost around six dollars. Taxi! ! !
#Person1#: I can't find the business card. Do you know the address?
#Person2#: Yeah. I met with them back in March, remember?
#Person1#: Right.
#Person2#: Driver, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. , please.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are going to be late for the meeting and they decide to take the taxi.


#Person1#: Do you have any particular conditions that you would like our company to take into consideration?
#Person2#: No, nothing in particular.
#Person1#: All right. If we decide to hire you, we'd pay you two thousand and five hundred yuan a month at the start. You can have Saturdays and Sundays off. Besides, you may have a paid month holiday every year. How do you think about it?
#Person2#: As regards salary, I leave it to you to decide after experience of capacity.
#Person1#: Well, we'll give you our decision in a couple of days. It's a pleasure to talk to you, Mr. Liu.
#Person2#: Thank you, Mr. White. I really appreciate your assistance.

Summary: Mr. White tells Mr. Liu his job pay and treatment. Mr. Liu asks Mr. White to decide salary after experience of capacity.


#Person1#: Mary, Pam and I are going to the mall later to buy some new clothes. Do you want to come?
#Person2#: Can you say it again slowly?
#Person1#: Pam and I are wondering if you'd like to go to the mall with us.
#Person2#: Oh, I see. I'll have to sink about it.
#Person1#: Sink?
#Person2#: Oops. I meant, ' think '
#Person1#: Mary, you're going to have to work on your pronunciation.
#Person2#: I know.
#Person1#: But give yourself some time. You just got here.

Summary: #Person1# invites Mary to go shopping. Mary says she'll 'sink' about it. #Person1# suggests Mary practice her pronunciation.


#Person1#: Do you have a reservation?
#Person2#: Yes, here's our confirmation slip.
#Person1#: I'm afraid we have no reservation by this name.
#Person2#: No reservation? Well, then, do you have any rooms available?
#Person1#: I'm afraid all the rooms are fully booked.
#Person2#: You mean we can't stay in this hotel tonight?
#Person1#: You're right. We have no more rooms available for tonight.
#Person2#: Then, would you recommend any other nearby hotel?
#Person1#: OK, I'll call ahead.

Summary: #Person1# cannot find a reservation by #Person2#'s name and all the rooms are fully booked so #Person2# needs to stay somewhere else.


#Person1#: What do we need to get from the supermarket?
#Person2#: We need lots of things. I ' ll make a list. We need a bag of sugar, a loaf of bread and a crate of beer.
#Person1#: A crate of beer? Why do we need that?
#Person2#: Just joking. I would like to get a few bottles of beer though. We also need a liter of cooking oil.
#Person1#: we can buy a three-liter bottle. It works out cheaper per liter. We should buy a packet of butter and a few pints of milk too.
#Person2#: I ' d like to get a jar of strawberry jam and a bottle of tomato ketchup. Do we need any meat?
#Person1#: I think we should get half a kilo of minced beef and a few pork chops.
#Person2#: Ok. Let ' s not forget fruit and vegetables. We need a bunch of bananas, a kilo of tomatoes and a bag of potatoes.
#Person1#: We should also get a tube of toothpaste and a bar of soap. Let ' s get a tub of ice cream too. We can treat ourselves.
#Person2#: Ok. We should get a few tins of tuna. Anything else?
#Person1#: I ' d like a few cans of coke. We also need a dozen eggs and half a dozen sausages.
#Person2#: let ' s get a chunk of cheese too. Is that everything.
#Person1#: I think so. I ' Ve got the shopping list, so let ' s go.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# are making a shopping list before they go to the supermarket, which includes sugar, bread, cooking oil, butter, milk, strawberry jam, ketchup, meat, fruit, vegetables, toothpaste, soap, ice cream, tuna, coke, eggs, cheese, and so on.


#Person1#: I haven't missed one day of school this year. I'm trying to get the prize for perfect attendance!
#Person2#: Great! It's still early in the year, but if you don't get sick, I know you can win.
#Person1#: I'm going to get my homework done and go to bed early every night so I can win!

Summary: #Person1# is planning to win the prize for perfect attendance.


#Person1#: Hello, Tom. How do you find the dinner of yesterday?
#Person2#: Very good. That may be the most delicious food I have ever eaten.
#Person1#: It's nice of you to say so.
#Person2#: I really appreciate you for having invited me.
#Person1#: Don't mention it. You know, we're old friends.
#Person2#: Anyway, I owe you one. Are you free tonight?
#Person1#: Yes. Why?
#Person2#: I want to invite you to enjoy the food I cook.
#Person1#: That's great. I'd love to.

Summary: Tom appreciates #Person1# for the dinner yesterday, so he invites #Person1# to enjoy the food he cooks tonight.


#Person1#: I wonder why the Sunflower went out of business? It got a great review and dining magazine, and every time I ate there, there was a big crowd.
#Person2#: It's not closed forever. There was a fire in the kitchen last month. But they planned to re-open as soon as the damage is repaired.
#Person1#: I'm glad to hear that. It was one of the best spots in town. It was so clean, the workers were so friendly and the food was great.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# that the Sunflower restaurant will reopen after repairing the damage.


#Person1#: Lots of elderly people want peace and quiet in their old age, but young people want an unconstrained life.
#Person2#: It would be good for both if they lived separately. My parents want to live apart from us.
#Person1#: What if old people are in poor health and need to be looked after?
#Person2#: Young people ought to carry out their responsibilities. If it's needed, they would live with their parents.
#Person1#: When I'm old, I'll also be like that.
#Person2#: You need a child first, and that's your duty, too.
#Person1#: I know that's what I must do.

Summary: #Person2# thinks young people should live with their parents if needed, though they may have different lifestyles.


#Person1#: What do you base our grades on?
#Person2#: All of your coursework is important, including everything from attendance and homework to all of your test results for the semester.
#Person1#: Does the final count the most?
#Person2#: All of it is important ; please just do your best at all times.
#Person1#: How do you total our scores?
#Person2#: The final and mid-term are twenty percent each ; homework, attendance, and quizzes are the rest.
#Person1#: What if we are out sick?
#Person2#: Make sure you contact me as I only allow one unexcused absence.
#Person1#: How can we know if we are doing OK during the year?
#Person2#: Your grade will not be a surprise ; you will know what you need to work on.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# the grade bases on coursework and explains the percentage of each session. #Person2# only allows unexcused absences.


#Person1#: Hi, Bob. What time is it now?
#Person2#: Uh, you are wearing a watch, Julia.
#Person1#: My watch is never correct.
#Person2#: It's six. I always have the correct time on my mobile phone.
#Person1#: Although mobile phones aren't as convenient as watches, at least you always know the correct time.
#Person2#: Yes, I think you should have your watch repaired. Otherwise, it's just a decoration around your wrist.
#Person1#: Well, I'm considering getting a new one. By the way, Robin invited me for dinner at 7:00 at Osteria Mozza Restaurant. Do you know where it is?
#Person2#: Go down the street and turn right at the second crossroads. You will find it near Starbucks across from the bank.
#Person1#: Thanks a lot.

Summary: Julie asks Bob what time it is and requests him to tell her the location of Osteria Mozza Restaurant.


#Person1#: Hi, Karen! Where's Tom?
#Person2#: He's upstairs. He's having a bath. Tom!
#Person3#: Yes?
#Person2#: Sam's here.
#Person3#: I'm nearly ready. Hello, Sam. Have a cigarette.
#Person1#: No thanks, Tom.
#Person3#: Have a glass of whisky then.
#Person1#: OK. Thanks.
#Person3#: Is dinner ready, Karen?
#Person2#: It's nearly ready. We can have dinner at seven o'clock.
#Person3#: Sam and I had lunch together today. We went to a restaurant.
#Person2#: What did you have?
#Person3#: We had roast beef and potatoes.
#Person2#: Oh!
#Person3#: What's the matter, Karen?
#Person2#: Well, you're going to have roast beef and potatoes again tonight!

Summary: Tom and Sam had roast beef and potatoes for lunch and those are exactly what Karen prepares for their dinner.


#Person1#: Doesn't that cloud look like a bear?
#Person2#: No, it looks like a dog to me. That one over there looks like a bear.
#Person1#: No, it doesn't. That one looks like a cat.
#Person2#: The sun is setting. Let's leave, so we can make it to my mom's on time for dinner.
#Person1#: OK. Where's the car? At the garden gate?
#Person2#: We parked it on the other side of that mountain.
#Person1#: No, I think we parked it behind that hill.
#Person2#: Oh, I see it. It's straight ahead by that tree.
#Person1#: Oh, good. We need to stop and buy some flowers. Your mom loves fresh flowers.
#Person2#: Sure, I need to stop to get gas first though.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# talk about the shape of the clouds. Then they realize it's time to drive to #Person2#'s mom's for dinner. They will buy some flowers and get gas on the way home.


#Person1#: Excuse me. I wonder if you could help me. I'm looking for the Oriental Pearl Theater.
#Person2#: Boy, you are lost. It's across town.
#Person1#: Oh! What bad luck! How can I get to the Theater?
#Person2#: You can take a No. 12 bus here and then transfer to a No. 23 bus to get there.

Summary: #Person2# tells #Person1# the way to go to the Oriental Pearl Theater.


#Person1#: Mary! I haven't seen you since our dinner with Mr. Lee last week. Where have you been hiding yourself lately?
#Person2#: Oh, hi Mike. I'Ve been out of town the last few days. What did you need?
#Person1#: Really, nothing big. I just heard about your ideas on employee motivation and I wanted chat with you about a few things going on in my department.
#Person2#: Well, feel free to drop by my office any time. The door's always open.
#Person1#: Actually, I was hoping to mix business with pleasure. Would you be interested in joining me for dinner some time this week? I thought we might try out the new Italian restaurant everyone's been
#Person2#: Sure, Mike, I'd love to.
#Person1#: Is this evening too soon?
#Person2#: No, that's perfect. We can leave directly from here.

Summary: Mike wants to chat with Mary about his department. He invites her to dinner this evening and she agrees.


#Person1#: Excuse me. Is flight KL638 late?
#Person2#: Yes, I think so. Flight KL638 is still at the airport due to the hurricane.
#Person1#: Oh, my god. If this flight is late. I will for Sydney. What can I do now?
#Person2#: Well if so. you should contact with the office over there. Maybe they will do you some help.
#Person1#: OK. thank you.

Summary: #Person1#'s flight is delayed. #Person2# suggests #Person1# contact with an office for help.


#Person1#: Should we ask Jason to play? He's always watching movies on HBO.
#Person2#: I guess we should invite him. I just hope he doesn't start talking about Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger again.
#Person1#: Oh, come on! The game is better with three people. Anyway, if we don't ask him to play, he'll be mad.
#Person2#: Yeah, you're right. We'll never hear the end of it.

Summary: #Person1# and #Person2# decide to invite Jason to play the game.


#Person1#: Can we talk?
#Person2#: What about?
#Person1#: I'm not too clear on some things about my lease.
#Person2#: Is there a problem?
#Person1#: How many years is my lease for?
#Person2#: In three years your lease will be up.
#Person1#: Can I move out before those three years?
#Person2#: If you do, I will keep your deductible.
#Person1#: Why would you keep it?
#Person2#: I would keep it because you would be breaking our contract.
#Person1#: I get it now.
#Person2#: I hope that I cleared things up for you.

Summary: #Person1# enquires #Person2# about the lease, and #Person2# clarifies the rule if #Person1# wants to move out early.


#Person1#: Good morning, sir. May I help you?
#Person2#: Yes, thank you. I want to get a handbag.
#Person1#: Do you want it for yourself or for your girlfriend?
#Person2#: No, I have no girlfriend.
#Person1#: Please excuse me for what I said just now. What do you think of this one?
#Person2#: I am afraid it is too big.
#Person1#: Sorry. It is the smallest size we have.
#Person2#: Too bad. But, is there any other leather store nearby?
#Person1#: Oh, yes. There is a big one at the right corner of the street. Perhaps you will get one there.
#Person2#: I hope so. Thanks.

Summary: The smallest handbag in #Person1#'s store is too big for #Person2#. #Person2#'ll go to another leather store.


#Person1#: Hello, Mrs. Turnbull. How are you?
#Person2#: Fine, thanks. How's your boy, Jack?
#Person1#: He's a bit tired. You know, he goes to school at eight o'clock every morning. He doesn't get home till after four. then he does his homework after tea. It often takes him a couple of hours to finish
#Person2#: Poor boy. They work hard at school nowadays, don't they? Does he like it?
#Person1#: School, you mean? Yes, he does. He likes his teachers, and that always makes difference.
#Person2#: Yes, it does. Does he go to school by bus?
#Person1#: No, he walks. He likes walking. He meets some of his friends at the corner another go together.
#Person2#: What does he do when it rains?
#Person1#: My husband takes him in the car. He passes the school on the way to the office.

Summary: #Person1# tells Mrs. Turnbull that #Person1#'s boy is tired because of the tiring school schedule and homework. #Person1# also tells #Person2# how does Jack go to school.